Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has threatened to expose politicians allegedly sponsoring criminal activities in parts of the country, including the recent kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oyo State.
Speaking during a recent address, Igboho alleged that some influential politicians were providing financial support, ammunition, and logistical assistance to criminal groups terrorising communities across the country.
According to him, security challenges confronting Nigeria are being fuelled by powerful political actors whose identities he claimed to know. He warned that if the perpetrators failed to desist from their actions, he would publicly reveal their names.
“If I am permitted to burst into their hideouts, they will flee. They are neither gnomes nor mannequins; they are human beings and can be dislodged. I know the politicians behind them, and if they do not stop perpetrating their evil acts, I will mention them all. They are the ones giving them ammunition and money,” he said.
Igboho further alleged that certain political interests were deliberately working to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by creating insecurity and spreading false narratives across the country.
“The same thing they did to Jonathan is what they are doing to Tinubu. They want to make the country ungovernable for him. They are using fake news propaganda to scare the masses and divert supporters away from the President,” he stated.
Referring to the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the activist expressed concern over the incident and claimed he had volunteered to assist in rescue efforts.
He, however, alleged that the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde declined his offer, insisting that he was prepared to support efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims.
“Suppose the recent abduction is not a game. In Oyo, they made away with children. I volunteered to go, but the state government said no,” he added.
The comments have generated reactions across political and security circles, with many calling for thorough investigations into the allegations. Neither the Oyo State Government nor the individuals allegedly implicated by Igboho had officially responded to the claims as of the time of filing this report.
Meanwhile, security agencies continue efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers, while residents and stakeholders have renewed calls for stronger measures to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
Former presidential candidate and global energy entrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has pledged to restore the value of the naira to an exchange rate of between N500- N525 to one United States dollar if elected President of Nigeria, as thousands of Accord Party supporters in FCT converged in Dawaki Abuja on Thursday to reaffirm their loyalty and support for his 2027 presidential ambition.
Addressing the mammoth gathering in Abuja on Thursday, Hashim thanked party members and supporters for what he described as their resilience, steadfastness and courage throughout the recent primary processes of the Accord Party.
The former presidential candidate used the occasion to launch a scathing criticism of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the government of failing to address the country’s worsening economic situation and the hardship confronting millions of Nigerians.
According to him, the economic realities facing citizens continue to deteriorate daily, with rising costs of living, declining purchasing power and growing unemployment deepening the suffering of ordinary families across the country.
Hashim alleged that those currently in power were more preoccupied with retaining political control than addressing the pressing needs of the people. He further claimed that elements within the government had become involved in the internal affairs of opposition parties, including the ADC, PDP and Accord Party, in a bid to weaken alternative political platforms ahead of future elections.
He warned that attempts to restrict democratic participation and undermine political competition could have serious consequences, arguing that history had repeatedly shown that leaders who sought to cling desperately to power often faced public rejection and divine judgment in Nigeria.
Drawing historical parallels, Hashim referenced the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, stating that no individual could permanently suppress the will of the people or obstruct the course of democracy.
The Accord Party chieftain also expressed disappointment with sections of the party leadership over their recent position regarding his presidential aspiration, maintaining that the timing and content of their public statements had raised questions about the integrity and transparency of the process.
He insisted that his political involvement was driven not by personal ambition but by a commitment to improving the welfare and living conditions of Nigerians, which he said had significantly worsened under the current administration.
Hashim lamented the growing difficulties faced by parents in meeting basic responsibilities, particularly the payment of school fees, noting that many families were being forced to make painful sacrifices to keep their children in school.
Reflecting on his formative years, he recalled a period when quality education was more accessible and affordable, stressing that today’s economic realities had placed education beyond the reach of many low-income households.
He said a responsible government must prioritise economic growth, job creation and educational opportunities for young people, arguing that these were essential ingredients for national development and social stability.
The former presidential candidate urged his supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding and actively engaged in the democratic process, despite the challenges confronting the opposition and the nation at large.
He expressed confidence that justice would ultimately prevail, adding that leaders who manipulate institutions and abuse power would eventually be held accountable by history and by God.
Hashim concluded by thanking the enthusiastic crowd for what he described as their unwavering love, loyalty and support, assuring them that their sacrifices and commitment to the cause of national renewal would not be in vain.
The recent abduction of innocent school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State remains a source of deep pain, anxiety, and concern to all well-meaning citizens. The thoughts and prayers of the public continue to be with the victims and their families as they endure this difficult and traumatic period.
I commend the efforts of the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government for visiting the affected community and reassuring the families that every possible step is being taken to secure the safe release of those still in captivity. Such visits offer hope and demonstrate that the plight of the victims has not been forgotten.
However, I am constrained to express serious concern regarding the public disclosure of the alleged demands and conditions reportedly issued by the kidnappers. While transparency in governance is important, matters involving ongoing hostage situations require the utmost discretion, caution, and strategic handling.
Publicising the demands of kidnappers may unintentionally complicate delicate rescue efforts, strengthen the bargaining position of criminal elements, create unnecessary panic among affected families, and potentially place the lives of the captives at greater risk. Security operations of this nature are often sensitive and require confidentiality to maximise the chances of a successful outcome.
At this critical time, the overriding objective should be the safe and unconditional release of every child and teacher still being held against their will. Every public statement, action, and strategy should be measured against this singular goal.
I therefore respectfully urge both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government to exercise greater restraint in the dissemination of sensitive information relating to the ongoing negotiations or security operations. The focus should remain on securing the freedom of the victims while denying the perpetrators any publicity, leverage, or advantage that could arise from public discussion of their demands.
The people of Oyo State, and indeed all Nigerians, expect the authorities to deploy every lawful resource available to ensure that these innocent citizens return safely to their families. Nothing should be allowed to hinder or jeopardise that objective.
May the captives regain their freedom soon, and may our nation continue to strengthen its resolve against kidnapping, banditry, and all forms of criminality.
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Oyo State, the issue of who emerges as the Chairman of Ido Local Government has become a subject of growing public interest among residents, stakeholders, and political leaders across the council area.
For many people in Ido Local Government, the chairmanship position is more than a political office; it is a symbol of local representation, identity, and the collective aspirations of the indigenous communities that have contributed immensely to the development and growth of the council over the years. It is therefore understandable that there is a strong expectation that the next chairman should emerge from among the indigenes of Ido Local Government.
The argument for an indigene chairman is not rooted in discrimination or exclusion, but in the desire to preserve local participation and ensure that those who fully understand the history, challenges, culture, and developmental needs of the various communities within Ido are given the opportunity to lead. Local government administration is closest to the people, and effective leadership often requires a deep connection with the communities being served.
Many residents still recall previous political decisions that generated concerns regarding representation. In particular, the emergence of a non-indigene for a major elective position within the area was viewed by many as a departure from the expectations of the people. As political parties prepare for another electoral cycle, there is a widespread belief that such a situation should not be repeated with the chairmanship seat of Ido Local Government.
This appeal is therefore directed to Governor Seyi Makinde, political parties, traditional leaders, community associations, and all relevant stakeholders to carefully consider the sentiments of the people during the selection and nomination process. Respecting the aspirations of the indigenous population will strengthen public confidence in the democratic process and promote unity across the local government.
Furthermore, giving an indigene the opportunity to occupy the chairmanship position will help reinforce the principle of grassroots representation, encourage greater community ownership of governance, and deepen the bond between the government and the people. Such a decision would be widely welcomed by residents who believe that local leadership should reflect the identity and aspirations of the local population.
As the election approaches, stakeholders must prioritize fairness, consultation, and the collective interest of the people of Ido Local Government. The voices of the indigenous communities deserve to be heard, respected, and reflected in the eventual choice of who leads the council.
Ultimately, the peace, unity, and political stability of Ido Local Government depend on decisions that inspire confidence among the people. The overwhelming expectation across many communities is that the next chairman should be an indigene who understands the local terrain, shares the people’s aspirations, and is committed to advancing the development of Ido Local Government.
Bolarinwa Adeolu, a concerned indigene of Ido Local Government
The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, alongside the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other critical security stakeholders, has launched a coordinated security initiative aimed at safeguarding schools and communities across the state amid rising concerns over insecurity in parts of the country.
The move followed an emergency security meeting convened by the state government, where traditional rulers, security agencies, local vigilante groups, hunters, and members of the Osun Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, resolved to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering around educational institutions and vulnerable communities.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that the safety of schoolchildren remains a top priority. He disclosed that additional security personnel would be deployed to strategic locations, particularly around schools, while community-based security structures would be strengthened to detect and prevent criminal activities.
The Ooni of Ife commended the state government for taking proactive steps to address security concerns, urging traditional rulers and community leaders to support ongoing efforts by providing credible intelligence and mobilising local residents against criminal elements. He emphasized that security is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration between government, security agencies, and citizens.
As part of the resolutions reached, hunters, local vigilantes, Amotekun operatives, and other security outfits were directed to intensify patrols in forests, border communities, and remote areas that could serve as hideouts for kidnappers and other criminal groups. Security agencies were also urged to improve information sharing and rapid response mechanisms.
The stakeholders expressed confidence that the coordinated approach would help deter criminal activities and reassure parents, teachers, and residents of the government’s determination to maintain peace and security throughout Osun State. They further called on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to relevant authorities.
The renewed security mobilisation comes amid heightened concerns over attacks on schools and communities in some parts of Nigeria, prompting several states to adopt preventive measures to forestall security breaches and protect residents.
Fresh details have emerged regarding the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as the kidnappers are reportedly demanding sophisticated weapons, a huge ransom, and the concession of a portion of land within the council area as conditions for releasing their captives.
According to information gathered by Oduduwa News, the terrorists responsible for the abduction have established contact with the Oyo State Government. However, efforts to secure the release of the victims are said to be difficult due to what officials described as outrageous and unacceptable demands by the abductors.
The shocking revelation was made by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, during plenary proceedings at the Assembly on Wednesday. The Speaker disclosed that negotiating with the kidnappers would embolden them because their conditions extend beyond monetary demands.
Ogundoyin explained that the abductors are requesting a large cache of sophisticated weapons, a substantial amount of money, and the concession of part of Oyo State territorial land, demands which the government is unwilling and unable to meet.
He assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, is intensifying efforts to secure the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils without compromising the security and territorial integrity of the state.
The Speaker urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing rescue operations. He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to ensuring the safe return of all victims and tackling the growing security challenges confronting parts of the state.
The abduction has continued to generate widespread concern among residents, parents, and stakeholders, with many calling for urgent and decisive action to secure the release of the victims and strengthen security across vulnerable communities in Oyo State.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging for their roles in the deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, which occurred on June 5, 2022, during a Pentecost Sunday service. The attack, one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in Nigeria’s recent history, claimed the lives of more than 40 worshippers and left over 100 others injured.
Delivering judgment, Justice Emeka Nwite found the defendants guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges, including terrorism financing, kidnapping, hostage-taking, conspiracy, and the use of explosives that resulted in deaths and injuries. The convicted men were identified as Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris.
The court heard that the convicts participated in planning and executing the attack, allegedly operating from a terrorist cell in Kogi State. Prosecutors presented witness testimonies, confessional statements, and forensic evidence linking the defendants to the massacre. A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was discharged and acquitted after the court ruled that there was insufficient evidence to connect him to the crime.
In addition to the death sentence, the four convicts were also handed life imprisonment terms for membership of a terrorist organization and 20 years imprisonment each for conspiracy. The judgment is being viewed as a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to prosecute terrorism-related crimes and deliver justice to victims of violent attacks.
The Owo church attack shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation from local and international communities. Worshippers were attending Mass at the church when gunmen and explosives struck, turning a religious celebration into a tragedy that left families devastated and the entire Owo community in mourning.
The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement has raised concerns over what it describes as external interference in the Accord Party’s presidential nomination process, insisting that Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains the party’s duly elected candidate for the 2027 general elections.
The group said recent statements by sections of the Accord Party leadership disputing Hashim’s emergence were “unfounded and contrary to documented facts and democratic procedures already concluded within the party.”
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the movement maintained that Hashim’s emergence as presidential candidate was the outcome of a legitimate internal process involving party members across the country.
It stated that his participation followed a formal invitation by the Accord Party national leadership, after which he joined the party in March 2026 following consultations on strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
The group added that Hashim subsequently mobilised nationwide support, contributed resources to party development, and participated fully in activities leading to the presidential primary.
According to the statement, the party leadership had repeatedly assured Hashim that Accord would field a presidential candidate in line with the Electoral Act and internal party guidelines.
It also referenced tensions reportedly linked to political statements and alignments outside the party structure, including comments attributed to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke regarding support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC.
The movement further alleged that external political interests attempted to influence the party’s decision-making process ahead of the presidential primary, claiming such pressure was aimed at preventing Accord from presenting a candidate in the 2027 elections. The movement urged party members and the public to remain calm.
The group argues that what is happening in the Accord Party is not an isolated incident.
ADC has also witnessed factional disputes over its presidential ticket, with multiple claimants emerging from rival party structures
The PDP has similarly experienced disputes over its presidential nomination process, with rival factions presenting different positions regarding the party’s candidate.
The Labour Party, like the ADC and PDP, also has multiple claims.
Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement noted that virtually all political parties in Nigeria where strong candidates have featured have at least two parallel candidates, or the emergence of any serious candidate is sabotaged by agents of the incumbent government, consistent with a plan to ensure that no viable candidate competes with the incumbent.
The group said Dr. Hashim remains committed to democratic principles and national unity, adding that he continues to focus on offering credible leadership alternatives ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Residents of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, were thrown into panic on Tuesday night after suspected gunmen reportedly attacked an office of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), making away with weapons belonging to officers on duty.
According to sources familiar with the incident, the attackers stormed the facility under the cover of darkness and launched a coordinated operation that caught security personnel off guard. During the attack, the gunmen allegedly overpowered officers on duty and seized a number of service weapons before fleeing the scene.
The incident is said to have triggered tension within the area, with residents expressing concerns over the growing security challenges in parts of the state. Witnesses reported hearing unusual movements and commotion around the vicinity of the immigration office during the attack.
Security agencies were immediately alerted, and efforts were reportedly intensified to track down the perpetrators and recover the stolen weapons. Additional security personnel were said to have been deployed to the area to prevent further breaches and reassure residents.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to release an official statement detailing the exact circumstances surrounding the attack or the number of weapons stolen. Investigations are ongoing, while residents and stakeholders have called for strengthened security measures around critical government facilities.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over attacks on security formations and public institutions across the country, underscoring the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and proactive security operations.
The Ogun State Government has dismissed as false and unfounded reports circulating on social media and other platforms alleging that Fulani herdsmen, Boko Haram insurgents, and other terrorist groups are planning to invade the state.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the government said available security intelligence and reports from relevant agencies indicate that Ogun State remains safe and secure.
The government urged residents not to be distracted by misinformation designed to create panic and fear among the populace, stressing that there is no truth in claims of an impending security threat within the state.
According to the statement, security agencies across Ogun State have remained vigilant, while adequate measures have been put in place to prevent any attempt by criminal elements to undermine public peace and order.
“The Ogun State Government has noted with dismay the rumours being circulated on social media and across different platforms indicating that the state is under imminent threat of invasion by killer herders, Boko Haram terrorists fleeing military operations in the North-East, and other criminal groups,” Akinmade said.
“The true situation is that there is no imminent threat of invasion by any terrorist group. Security agencies and operatives across the state are on high alert, and adequate measures have already been put in place to checkmate any individual or group seeking to foment trouble or undermine public order.”
He added that some individuals appeared to be exploiting security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create unnecessary fear among Ogun residents.
“It is clear that some individuals are attempting to exploit security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create a climate of fear in Ogun State. This is highly irresponsible and capable of causing unnecessary anxiety among residents,” he said.
Akinmade disclosed that security agencies have already apprehended some individuals linked to the circulation of the false reports and misinformation on social media. He noted that those arrested are being prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the action is intended to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to spread falsehoods, incite panic, or create chaos within the state.
“Security agencies have identified and apprehended some of the individuals responsible for spreading these false narratives. They are currently facing prosecution, and this should serve as a clear warning to anyone seeking to deliberately spread misinformation, create panic, or disrupt public peace. The government will continue to work with security agencies to ensure that those who engage in such acts are held accountable,” he stated.
The statement emphasized that Ogun State continues to enjoy strong collaboration among security agencies, local authorities, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders. This synergy, it noted, has significantly enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid response capacity, and overall coordination in maintaining peace across the state.
It further disclosed that the state government is already working in close conjunction with all security agencies to fine-tune strategic, state-specific security measures aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability. The initiative, according to the government, is designed to deepen collaboration between conventional security agencies and traditional security architecture at the grassroots.
Akinmade explained that this integrated approach will strengthen intelligence sharing, community participation, and early warning systems, leveraging the enduring role of traditional institutions in local security management alongside modern security frameworks.
“The government is not only focused on addressing immediate security concerns but is also committed to putting in place enduring mechanisms that will preserve peace and security in the long term. This involves strengthening the synergy between conventional security institutions and traditional security architecture, which continues to play a vital role in intelligence gathering and community-based conflict prevention,” he said.
The government also noted that Governor Dapo Abiodun has consistently prioritized the security of lives and property through sustained investments in security infrastructure, logistical support for security agencies, and the deployment of technology-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing surveillance and crime prevention across the state.
The statement further urged residents to rely strictly on official government communication channels and recognized security agencies for information. It warned that the indiscriminate sharing of unverified reports on social media could inadvertently aid mischief makers seeking to spread fear and confusion.
Akinmade assured that the state government remains proactive rather than reactive in security management and is continuously reviewing intelligence reports and nationwide security developments to ensure Ogun State remains peaceful, safe, and conducive for residents, businesses, and visitors.
He added that while citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant as responsible members of society, there is no cause for alarm, as all security formations in the state are fully alert and working in close coordination to safeguard communities and maintain public order.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to public safety, Akinmade warned that the government would not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone attempting to disrupt the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the state.
He also called on residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and useful information whenever necessary, stressing that security remains a shared responsibility.
The state government further encouraged residents to support ongoing security efforts through responsible and timely information sharing. For credible security information and assistance, members of the public may contact the Ogun State Police Command through the Gateway Shield toll-free line on 0800 000 9111 or the emergency lines: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.
The government urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports and refrain from spreading rumours capable of causing panic or disrupting public peace, assuring residents that Ogun State remains safe, secure, and open for lawful business and socio-economic activities.
