The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church God, Gbenga Adeboye, has called on the Federal Government to take a firmer stance against insecurity by giving security chiefs a 90-day ultimatum to end terrorism and violent attacks across the country or step aside.

Speaking during a church programme, Adeboye expressed deep concern over the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and attacks on communities. He lamented that despite efforts by security agencies, many Nigerians continue to live in fear as criminal elements wreak havoc in different parts of the country.

The respected cleric stated that the nation cannot continue to accept the loss of innocent lives as a normal occurrence. According to him, security officials entrusted with the responsibility of protecting citizens should be held accountable for results. He argued that setting clear targets and timelines would encourage greater commitment and urgency in addressing the country’s security crisis.

Adeboye urged the Federal Government to provide security agencies with the necessary support, intelligence, equipment, and resources needed to confront terrorists and other criminal groups effectively. However, he maintained that such support must be accompanied by measurable outcomes, adding that any security leadership unable to deliver tangible progress within a specified period should willingly vacate office.

The cleric also called on Nigerians to support security efforts through vigilance, intelligence sharing, and prayers for the nation. He emphasized that restoring peace and security is essential for economic growth, national unity, and the well-being of citizens.

His comments have sparked discussions among Nigerians on the effectiveness of the country’s security architecture and the need for stronger measures to tackle the lingering insecurity that has affected several parts of the nation in recent years.

Prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party’s preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in the state.

Speaking at a gathering of APC stakeholders, former Oyo State gubernatorial aspirant and party chieftain, Chief Fatai Ibikunle, revealed that President Tinubu had informed key party leaders, including former First Lady of Oyo State, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, and former Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin, that Senator Alli was his preferred choice for the governorship ticket.

According to Ibikunle, he initially doubted reports that Alli had emerged as the consensus candidate until the President personally confirmed it to him. He stated that the President had quietly sent a clear signal to APC leaders across Oyo State to unite behind Sharafadeen Alli ahead of the party’s gubernatorial contest.

Ibikunle also claimed that the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, ignored President Tinubu’s appeal not to resign from his previous position, believing he could secure victory on his own. He said events have since shown that the President had already indicated his preference for Alli, urging party leaders to rally support for him.

In a similar vein, the Chairman of the APC in Oyo State, Moses Alake Adeyemo, disclosed that he was initially opposed to the idea of adopting a consensus candidate. He explained that he had insisted the party should conduct a primary election until he was personally informed by President Tinubu that Sharafadeen Alli was the party’s preferred governorship candidate.

Adeyemo said he eventually came to the realization that even if a primary election were conducted, Alli would still emerge victorious due to the overwhelming support and backing he enjoys within the party. He therefore called on APC members across the state to close ranks and work together to ensure the party’s success in the 2027 governorship election.

The revelations have further fueled discussions within the Oyo APC over the party’s succession plan and the race to challenge the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde in the next electoral cycle.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has alleged that the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may have been orchestrated to embarrass and blackmail President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Fayose made the controversial claim during a television interview while discussing the security situation in the country.

According to him, the response of the Oyo State Government to the incident raised questions, as he claimed that Governor Seyi Makinde initially focused on political activities before publicly engaging with the families of the abducted victims. Fayose said he had a “strong belief,” though he admitted he could be wrong, that the incident might have been politically motivated.

The former governor argued that state governments have significant responsibilities in addressing security challenges within their territories, including the use of security votes and local security structures. He maintained that blame for insecurity should not always be directed at the Federal Government, insisting that state authorities must also be held accountable for protecting lives and property.

Fayose further claimed that the kidnapping was being used to tarnish the image of President Tinubu, drawing parallels with past accusations that insecurity was used as a political tool against previous administrations. His remarks have generated widespread reactions from political observers and members of the public, with many questioning the basis of the allegation.

Neither the Oyo State Government nor Governor Makinde had officially responded to Fayose’s allegations as of the time of this report. The abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire has continued to attract national attention, with ongoing efforts by security agencies and government authorities to secure the release of the remaining victims and address growing concerns over insecurity in schools.

The Nigerian Nurses’ Forum has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over alleged quackery, extortion, unsafe delivery practices, and workplace intimidation at a Primary Health Care (PHC) facility in Oyo State.

The forum alleged that unqualified individuals were being allowed to perform clinical and maternity-related duties meant for trained and licensed healthcare professionals. According to the group, such practices endanger patients’ lives and could lead to avoidable medical complications and maternal deaths.

The nurses also accused some officials of intimidating and victimising staff members who raised concerns about the alleged irregularities. They claimed that whistleblowers were subjected to threats rather than having their complaints properly investigated.

In addition, the forum expressed concern over alleged extortion and unethical treatment of patients seeking healthcare services at the facility. It warned that vulnerable residents who depend on primary healthcare centres should not be exposed to exploitation or unsafe medical care.

The group called on the police, Oyo State Government, health authorities, and professional regulatory bodies to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations, protect whistleblowers, and sanction anyone found culpable. The allegations remain unproven, and authorities are expected to investigate and establish the facts.

Hundreds of concerned residents, civil society groups, parents, and community leaders on Monday marched to the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan, demanding urgent action to secure the release of school pupils and teachers abducted by suspected kidnappers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The protesters, carrying placards with various inscriptions such as “Bring Back Our Children,” “Save Our Teachers,” and “Enough of Insecurity in Oyo State,” called on security agencies and government authorities to intensify efforts toward rescuing the victims and ensuring their safe return.

The demonstration, which attracted participants from different parts of the state, was marked by peaceful processions and passionate appeals to the government to act swiftly in addressing the growing security concerns in affected communities.

Speaking during the protest, some parents of the abducted pupils expressed deep anxiety over the uncertainty surrounding the whereabouts of their children, urging authorities not to relent in ongoing rescue operations. They appealed to security agencies to deploy all available resources to secure the release of the victims without delay.

Community leaders and civil society activists who joined the march also emphasized the need for stronger security measures across rural communities and schools to prevent future incidents. They called for increased surveillance, intelligence gathering, and collaboration between security agencies and local communities.

The protesters further urged both the federal and state governments to prioritize the safety of school children and teachers, noting that attacks on educational institutions threaten the future of the nation’s younger generation.

Receiving the protesters at the Government House, representatives of the Oyo State Government assured them that the administration was committed to securing the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers. They reiterated that Governor Seyi Makinde had directed security agencies to intensify efforts and utilize all available mechanisms to rescue the victims.

The government also appealed for calm and cooperation from members of the public, assuring residents that security agencies were working round the clock to ensure a positive outcome.

The abduction has continued to generate widespread concern across Oyo State, with residents, religious leaders, professional groups, and other stakeholders calling for decisive action to address insecurity and protect lives and property.

As of the time of filing this report, security operations aimed at rescuing the abducted pupils and teachers were ongoing, while residents remained hopeful for their safe and immediate return.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared that a proposed minimum wage of N100,000 is grossly inadequate to meet the current economic realities facing Nigerian workers, insisting that employees deserve as much as N1 million monthly to cope with the rising cost of living.

Speaking amid ongoing debates over workers’ welfare and wage adjustments, labour leaders argued that inflation, soaring food prices, transportation costs, housing expenses, and the continuous depreciation of the naira have significantly eroded the purchasing power of workers across the country.

According to the NLC, the current economic situation has made it increasingly difficult for workers to provide for their families, pay school fees, access quality healthcare, and meet other basic needs. The union maintained that any wage structure that fails to reflect prevailing economic conditions would only worsen the hardship being experienced by millions of Nigerians.

Labour representatives noted that while some state governors have suggested a minimum wage of N100,000, such an amount can no longer guarantee a decent standard of living for workers. They stressed that the figure falls far below what is required to sustain an average Nigerian household under current market conditions.

The NLC reiterated its long-standing position that workers should receive wages that reflect the true cost of living and ensure dignity in labour. The union emphasized that discussions on wage reviews should focus on improving workers’ welfare rather than merely meeting minimum legal requirements.

The labour body also urged the Federal Government, state governments, and employers in both the public and private sectors to prioritize policies that protect workers from the impact of inflation and economic hardship.

The call comes as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising prices of food items, transportation, electricity, and other essential services, fueling renewed demands for improved wages and better working conditions across the country.

The NLC maintained that ensuring fair compensation for workers remains critical to boosting productivity, economic growth, and social stability, adding that Nigerian workers deserve wages that adequately reflect their contributions to national development.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State as part of immediate measures to strengthen security following recent abduction of students and teachers in the state.

The development was disclosed on Sunday, May 31, during the visit of a high-powered federal government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, following the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.

The delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, informed community leaders and lawmakers that requests for the establishment of a military base in the area would be transmitted to the President for consideration and approval.

Gbajabiamila also disclosed that President Tinubu had directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective.

Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.

Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts. Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he said

House of Representatives candidate for Oyo Federal Constituency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Busari Basit Babatunde, has congratulated residents of Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East and Oyo West Local Government Areas in Oyo State on the commencement of a new month while also extending warm greetings to Muslim faithful on the successful celebration of Eid-el-Kabir.

In a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, Busari expressed appreciation to Muslims for their prayers, sacrifices, and commitment to peaceful coexistence during the Ileya festival.

“As we enter the month of June, I wish all our people joy, good health, prosperity, and progress. I also congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters on the successful celebration of Eid-el-Kabir. The values of sacrifice, compassion, and service associated with the festival are virtues we must continue to uphold as a people,” he said.

The Federal House of Representatives candidate, however, expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of pupils and staff abducted from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and L.A. Primary School, describing the situation as painful and unacceptable.

According to him, the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the fate of the victims has left families, communities, and well-meaning Nigerians deeply worried.

“It is troubling that days after the unfortunate attack that led to the tragic loss of lives and the abduction of pupils and school staff, most of the victims are still being held by their abductors. Every child deserves to feel safe in school, and every parent deserves the assurance that their children can pursue education without fear.”

Busari called on security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify efforts towards securing the immediate release of all those still in captivity and ensuring that those responsible for the attack are apprehended.

He further urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting lawful efforts aimed at improving security across communities in Oyo State.

“The safety of our children must remain a priority. We must continue to work towards a society where schools are places of learning and development, not centres of fear and insecurity. My thoughts and prayers remain with the affected families, and I sincerely hope for the safe return of every victim,” he added.

He also wished residents a peaceful and productive month, urging them to remain hopeful and committed to the collective development of Oyo Federal Constituency.

The Oyo State chapter of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has distanced itself from the indefinite strike action declared by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the association said private schools across Oyo State would remain open for academic activities, stressing that the strike directive was issued by the NUT and does not extend to members of NAPPS.

The association expressed sympathy with the families of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing the incident as unfortunate and deeply troubling. However, it maintained that shutting down private schools across the state would not be the most effective way to address the security challenge.

NAPPS urged government at all levels and security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing the safe and unconditional release of the victims while strengthening security around schools and communities vulnerable to attacks.

The association also warned private school administrators, teachers, and other staff members against participating in any protest or strike action under the banner of the NUT, emphasizing that private schools operate under a different structure and are not bound by directives issued by the teachers’ union.

According to the association, private schools have a responsibility to ensure continuity in learning and academic activities while supporting lawful efforts aimed at improving security in the education sector.

NAPPS further appealed to parents and guardians to remain calm, assuring them that private schools in the state would continue to prioritize the safety and welfare of pupils through existing security measures and collaboration with relevant authorities.

While acknowledging the concerns raised by the NUT over the safety of teachers and students, the association called for constructive engagement with government and security agencies rather than actions that could disrupt the education of thousands of learners across the state.

The body reiterated its commitment to quality education and a safe learning environment, urging all stakeholders to work together to prevent future attacks on schools and ensure that educational institutions remain secure.

The association concluded by reaffirming that all private schools under its umbrella in Oyo State are expected to remain open and fully operational, while continuing to monitor developments surrounding the abduction and ongoing rescue efforts.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has declared an indefinite strike for teachers in Oyo State and directed its branches across the country to embark on solidarity rallies following the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The decision was announced by the national leadership of the union amid growing concerns over the continued captivity of the victims who were abducted during attacks on schools in the Oriire area on May 15, 2026.

According to a circular jointly signed by NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, and Secretary General, Dr. Clinton J. Ikpitibo, all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State have been directed to withdraw their services indefinitely beginning from June 1, 2026, until the abducted teachers and students regain their freedom.

The union also instructed its state chapters nationwide to organize solidarity rallies on June 2 to demand the immediate and unconditional release of the victims and draw attention to the worsening insecurity facing schools across Nigeria.

NUT expressed concern that despite repeated appeals to government authorities and security agencies, the abducted teachers and learners remain in captivity, creating fear and anxiety among educators, parents, and communities.

The union described the prolonged captivity of the victims as unacceptable, stressing that teachers cannot continue to work under conditions where their safety and that of their students are not guaranteed.

Reports indicate that dozens of students and several teachers were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that has triggered protests and widespread condemnation across Oyo State and beyond.

NUT maintained that schools should remain safe spaces for learning and urged the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of all abducted victims.

The union further vowed to continue lawful advocacy and engagement until the teachers and students are rescued and reunited with their families.