Crime

Police Arrest Two Suspected Cultists in Oyo

By Web News 142

By Abisola Oluremi

The Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Command, has arrested two suspected cultists and recovered a firearm and ammunition during an intelligence-led operation in Oyo Town.

The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen.

According to the statement, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit apprehended the suspects, identified as Oparemi Kabiru, also known as “Ikebe”, and Fasasi Taofeek, popularly called “Buffalo”, at their hideout in the Oke-Apo area of the town.

DSP Ayanlade said a search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of a locally made pistol and two live cartridges.

He added that preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were alleged members of the Eiye Supremo Confraternity and reportedly confessed to involvement in several violent criminal activities within Oyo Town and neighbouring communities.

The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Mr Olugbenga Abimbola, described the arrest as a demonstration of the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and community collaboration.

Mr Abimbola urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information, assuring them of the command’s commitment to combating cultism, armed violence and other criminal activities across the state.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

Move beyond statements to rescue students, teachers – NBC tells Govt.

By Web News 218

By Abisola Oluremi &Olubunmi Agboola

The Nigerian Baptist Convention, NBC, has condemned the abduction of 46 people, including a two-year-old toddler, by terrorists in communities within Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, calling for immediate government and community action to end the spate of attacks.

The convention said it received the news “with deep sorrow and outrage.” According to verified firsthand reports from church members, 39 students and seven teachers were taken from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School. Among those abducted is two-year-old Christianah Akanbi of Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School. Four motorcycles were also snatched during the attack—three from Yawota community and one from the high school.

President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, said the church was “particularly grieved” by the condition of the children and toddler, who he said are being held in the bush without shelter and exposed daily to rain and harsh weather.

“Some teachers lost their lives in the attack while those in captivity are undergoing harrowing experiences and untold hardship that no human being should have to endure, let alone be forced into,” Akanji said in Ibadan.

He described the incident as part of a painful pattern of attacks on Baptist schools and churches nationwide, citing the July 5, 2021 abduction of 120 students and a matron from Bethel Baptist High School, Damishi, Kaduna. “The experience for both parents and the Church was horrifying,” he said.

Akanji said repeated calls to end the killings, abductions, and destruction of churches and property have gone unanswered, and the situation is worsening. “Nigerians, particularly the Church, are running out of patience and cannot continue to watch while lives and properties are being daily wasted,” he stated.

The convention urged federal, state, and local governments to coordinate a decisive response “beyond mere statements.” It called on security agencies to adopt a “more robust, focused, modern and hard attack strategy” to eliminate criminal elements.

Akanji also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and civil society to take ownership of local security, saying the burden cannot rest on government alone. He urged the federal government to seek international assistance if needed and reiterated the call for the immediate establishment of state police equipped to confront bandits in cooperation with local security groups.

“Nigeria has been left wounded, bleeding and dying like the victim of the Jerusalem-Jericho Road in the Bible,” Akanji said, referencing his 2022 Independence Day sermon at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.

He condemned the targeting of children as an affront to God, noting Jesus’ teaching on the protection of little ones. “This dimension of brutalizing fellow human beings, particularly little children, is a call for divine wrath on the perpetrators, which they cannot escape.”

The convention commiserated with families who lost loved ones, prayed for the safe return of those in captivity, and assured the government of full support and cooperation in rescue efforts. It also called on Baptists and Nigerians of goodwill to intensify prayers for the captives’ release and for lasting peace.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

Crime

NAPTIP Secures Conviction over Child Trafficking

By Web News 127

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, Ogun State Command, has secured the conviction of a 27-year-old man, Chukwuemeka Iheamama, for trafficking two minors for exploitation.

The Ogun State Commander of NAPTIP, Mrs Bose Jimoh, said the conviction was secured before the Federal High Court, Abeokuta Judicial Division, presided over by Justice A. A. Okeke.

Mrs Jimoh explained that officers of the Nigeria Police Force arrested the convict at Agbara in Ogun State while he was transporting two 15-year-old girls, identified as Bright Etu Edim and Mary Aniete Ekong, to Badagry for onward movement to Ghana for prostitution.

She said the police later transferred the case to the Ogun State Command of NAPTIP for further investigation and prosecution.

According to the NAPTIP Commander, prosecutors arraigned the defendant before the court on charges bordering on human trafficking offences contrary to Sections 13, 15(b) and 26(1) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015.

Mrs Jimoh added that the court found the defendant guilty on all counts and sentenced him to two years imprisonment with an option of a N250,000 fine on count one, five years imprisonment with an option of a N500,000 fine on count two and five years imprisonment on count three.

The court ordered that the sentences should run concurrently.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

Police Nab Suspected Killer of Teenager in Ogun

By Web News 171

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old teacher who is also a choir master, Nathaniel Baiyegun, for allegedly kidnapping and killing a 16-year-old WAEC candidate after collecting a ransom of five hundred thousand naira from her family in Ogijo area of Sagamu Local Government Area.

Police investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly lured the teenager under the pretext of attending a coaching class before taking her to an uncompleted building where she was held while ransom negotiations continued with her family.

The command said the suspect later administered sleeping tablets to the victim, leading to her death, before dumping her body in a river around the MTN area of Ogijo.

The suspect reportedly confessed to using the victim’s mobile phone to demand a ransom of three million naira from her father and later received five hundred thousand naira despite knowing that the teenager was already dead.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi explained that Investigations further showed that the suspect allegedly spent most of the ransom proceeds on online sports betting and was also linked to internet fraud activities, including requests for nude photographs from the deceased.

Speaking with newsmen, the suspect admitted being a teacher and choir master in the community, claiming that the alleged kidnap was initially planned to extort money from the victim’s family before the incident turned tragic.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police,Mr Bode Ojajuni commended operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for the arrest and assured residents that the command would sustain efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the state.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

Crime

Oyo Mourns as Slain Teacher is Buried Today

By Web News 307

Adesiyan Adegboye, one of the teachers killed during the coordinated attack at Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, will be laid to rest today, May 22, 2026, in Ogbomoso.

Adegboye, aged 49, was killed at the scene of the abduction last Friday.

According to a copy of the burial programme obtained by The PUNCH in Ibadan, the state capital, on Thursday, the deceased will be buried at his residence in the Owolake area of Ogbomoso today (Friday).

The deceased, born on December 11, 1976, was gruesomely murdered by yet-to-be-identified bandits, who invaded the schools around 9:30 am last Friday.

The PUNCH reports that scores of teachers and students were abducted during the coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, on Friday around 9:30 a.m.

It will also be recalled that Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, who visited the scene of the incident on Saturday, deployed more detectives from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, to collaborate with the joint security team as part of intensified efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and students of three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

Punch/ Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

Crime

Abducted Ekiti Council Vice Chairman Regains Freedom

By Web News 190

By Oriola Afolabi

The Vice Chairman, Ilejemeje Local Government of Ekiti State, Mrs Grace Ogunleye, kidnapped on Wednesday by unidentified hoodlums, has been rescued.

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ekiti State Command, Sunday Abutu, who made this known in Ado Ekiti on Thursday said the council official was rescued unhurt.

The rescue team was reported to have mounted pressure on the abductors, forcing them to release the victim.

A statement by the police spokesperson reads, “One Mrs Grace Ogunleye, the Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, who was allegedly kidnapped on 20th May, 2026, by yet-to-be-identified hoodlums, has been rescued unhurt. The breakthrough came as a result of a joint operation by the police, the military and other security agencies, as well as local security personnel, who embarked on a rescue mission and mounted pressure on the hoodlums”.

Mrs Ogunleye had since been taken into protective custody for medical checks and debriefing.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Micheal Falade, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident in order to unravel the cause and those behind it,” Abutu stated.

Sources, who said that Ogunleye was kidnapped on Wednesday along the Ipere-Iludun Ekiti Road, stated that her vehicle was later found abandoned while her whereabouts remained unknown, just as her mobile phone had also been switched off.

Recall that unknown gunmen on April 28, 2026, attacked a Christ Apostolic Church at Eda Oniyo in Ilejemeje Local Government Area during a programme, shot dead the pastor and whisked away about fifteen worshippers.

She had since been taken into protective custody for medical checks and debriefing

 He said the aim was to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

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Crime

Gunmen Abduct Two CRIN Workers in Oyo

By Web News 259

By Abisola Oluremi

The Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Command has confirmed that two members of staff of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, CRIN, Idi Ayunre, Ibadan, were abducted by armed men who invaded the institute’s premises.

According to a statement signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the incident was reported by the institute’s Chief Security Officer, prompting an immediate response from officers at the divisional headquarters.

Preliminary findings revealed that about six armed men carried out the attack before taking the victims to an unknown destination.

“During the search, officers intercepted two suspects identified as Shehu and Abubakar. The suspects reportedly volunteered to lead operatives to their hideout, but the team came under gunfire from other members of the gang. The Police repelled the attack and successfully extracted the suspects, who are now in custody for further investigation.”

Meanwhile, the command has dismissed as false the reports circulating on social media alleging another mass abduction in Abanla and other parts of Ibadan.

The Police warned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic, urging residents to remain calm and provide credible information through official emergency lines.

Edited by Olaolu Fawole

Crime

Family Seeks Help to pay ₦15 Million Ransom

By Web News 186

By Abisola Oluremi

The Taofeek Adeleke family has appealed to the government, well-meaning individuals, and organizations for assistance in raising the ransom demanded by kidnappers who abducted their son, Olayemi Adeleke, last Saturday.

The head of the family, Mr Taofeek Adeleke, explained that the abductors are demanding the sum of 15 million naira for the release of Olayemi, who was kidnapped at his residence in Alapinnu Community along Ogunmakin Road in Ibadan at about 9:40 p.m. on Saturday, May 16.

Narrating the incident, Mr Adeleke explained that the victim was alone at home when he noticed armed men attempting to force their way into the fenced compound.

His attempt to escape proved unsuccessful as the kidnappers eventually caught up with him and whisked him away.

Some neighbours in the area also confirmed hearing gunshots during the incident, which forced residents to flee for safety.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO of the Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, told newsmen that the command is making concerted efforts to ensure the safe rescue of the victim.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

MUSWEN Decries Oyo School Abduction, Mourns Slain Teacher

By Web News 293

By Nafiu Busari

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria, MUSWEN has strongly condemned the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the incident as a barbaric attack on the future of the region and the nation.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the MUSWEN President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and the Executive Secretary, Professor Wole Abbas, expressed deep sorrow over the abductions.

The organisation particularly condemned the reported killing of one of the abducted teachers, Mr Michael Oyedokun, whose death was confirmed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde following the circulation of a disturbing video.

The apex Muslim body in South West Nigeria called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages.

MUSWEN also urged the federal and state governments to adopt a more proactive and comprehensive approach to addressing insecurity, including improved intelligence gathering, community policing, and tackling the socio-economic factors fueling banditry.

The organisation appealed to residents of the affected communities and the general public to provide useful information to security operatives while remaining calm and avoiding actions that could jeopardise rescue operations.

MUSWEN further prayed for the repose of the slain teacher’s soul and for the safe return of all abducted pupils and staff.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

Six Suspects Linked to Oyo School Kidnap Arrested

By Web News 395

By Abisola Oluremi

Security operatives in Oyo State have arrested six suspects for allegedly aiding the gunmen behind the abduction of schoolchildren and the killing of two teachers and a commercial motorcyclist in Oriire Local Government Area.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed this during a telephone interview with Radio Nigeria.

DSP Ayanlade said the arrests followed intelligence reports linking the suspects to the attackers who carried out the assault last Friday in the Ahoro-Esiele community.

According to him, the suspects allegedly acted as informants for the kidnappers, maintaining phone communication with the armed group before and after the incident.

Police sources revealed that some of the conversations focused on movement routes and possible hideouts within the Old Oyo National Park axis, believed to have been used by the criminals to evade arrest.

The police added that intelligence gathered from the phone exchanges played a crucial role in tracking down members of the suspected network during coordinated raids across multiple locations.

DSP Ayanlade said the suspects are currently in custody and assisting investigators with useful information.

He assured residents that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects linked to the attack.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

NLC Demands Justice for Oriire School Kidnap Victims

By Web News 318

By Olubunmi Agboola

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Oyo State Council, wants security agencies to ensure that master minds of the attack on Ahoro-Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area are arrested,  investigated, and prosecuted in line with the law to deter further attacks.

In a statement by the state chairman, Mr Kayode Martins, the council strongly condemned the bandit attack and abduction, describing it as an assault on the state’s peace and educational stability. “It’s an incident that has inflicted trauma, fear, and hardship on affected families, schools, and communities”.

The Union expressed support for the state government and security agencies working to rescue the abducted victims and restore peace.

It called for intensified intelligence gathering and coordinated operations to secure the immediate and safe release of all victims.

“The safety and security of workers, teachers, students, and all residents of Oyo State remain a top priority,” the council said.

The NLC extended heartfelt sympathy to the people of Ogbomoso, Oyo State Government, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT.

“We stand in full solidarity with the leadership and members of the NUT during this difficult time and pray for strength, comfort, and healing for all affected families,” the statement read.

The congress concluded by praying for the safe return of all abducted victims and for lasting peace and stability in Oyo State and Nigeria.

Edited by Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

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Crime

We are still analyzing viral kidnapper video – Oyo Police

By Web News 277

By Abisola Oluremi

The Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Command, has commenced a comprehensive examination of the video circulating on social media in connection with the recent kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen that the footage is currently undergoing detailed forensic analysis to determine its authenticity and to support ongoing investigations.

According to the PPRO, the process is expected to aid rescue operations and assist security agencies in identifying and arresting those responsible for the heinous act.

Mr Ayanlade reassured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safe return of all abducted persons to their families.

He noted that intensive operational, intelligence-driven, and tactical efforts are ongoing in collaboration with other security agencies to secure the victims unharmed and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

School Attack: IGP Condoles with Bereaved Familes, Orders Intensified Rescue Operations

By Web News 181

By Abisola Oluremi

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has visited Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the deadly attack and abduction that occurred in the early hours of Friday .

The IGP expressed deep concern over the incident and extended condolences to families of those who lost their lives.


The Police boss was accompanied by the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, Ojo Adekimi, due to the proximity of the affected communities to the Kwara border, as well as the Commissioner of Police, Schools Protection Squad, Abayomi Shogunle, as part of efforts to strengthen school safety and coordinate response measures.

During the visit, the IGP met with the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Mr Olugbenga Abimbola, and other security stakeholders where he received operational briefings on ongoing rescue efforts and security deployments across the troubled communities.

The Inspector-General assured residents, parents, and guardians of the kidnapped victims that the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified search-and-rescue operations, intelligence gathering, and tactical deployments to ensure the safe return of all abducted victims and bring those responsible to justice.

The IGP condemned the attack as cruel and unacceptable and directed the deployment of additional assets to restore normalcy in the area.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

EFCC Arraigns Blessing CEO Over Alleged N36m Fraud

By Web News 211

By Olaolu Fawole

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos State, on Friday, arraigned a social media influencer and self-styled relationship therapist, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, (also known as Blessing CEO), before Justice D.I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, over an alleged N36 million fraud.

Nkiruka was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N36,000,000.00 (Thirty-six Million Naira).

At the commencement of proceedings, defence counsel, P.I. Nwafor, informed the court that the defendant had refunded part of the money to the petitioner.

“We have an application to make. The defendant approached the nominal complainant and refunded N24 million out of the N36 million.

“We are asking for a short adjournment to resolve the outstanding balance. The nominal complainant agreed that if the balance is paid, they can prevail on the EFCC to drop the case,” he said.

Responding, the prosecution counsel, S.I. Suleiman, stated that the prosecution was not privy to any discussion between the defendant and the nominal complainant.

“The complainant here is the Federal Government of Nigeria, and we are here for the arraignment. We urge that the defendant take her plea, as that is the business of the day,” he said.

In his ruling, Justice Dipeolu held that “the defence and the nominal complainant can have discussions even during the pendency of the charge. It does not affect the proceedings before the court. The defendant will take her plea.”

One of the counts reads: “That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA, between July 14 and 17, 2024, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did obtain the sum of N36,000,000.00 (Thirty-six Million Naira) from Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye under the false pretence of leasing a six-bedroom detached duplex situated at No. 1B, Tunbosun Osobu Street, Off Kuboye Road, Lekki, Lagos State, which representation you knew to be false, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.”

Another count reads: “That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA, between July 14 and 17, 2024, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently converted to your own use the sum of N36,000,000.00 (Thirty-six Million Naira), property of Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nonye Okoye, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 383 and punishable under Section 390 of the Criminal Code Act, Cap C38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to her.

Following her plea, Suleiman applied for a trial date and prayed the court to remand the defendant in a Correctional facility pending trial.

Counsel to the defendant, however, informed the court that the defendant had only been served with the charge on Thursday, May 14, 2026, and that efforts were ongoing to file her bail application.

He, therefore, prayed that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody pending the perfection of her bail conditions.

Justice Dipeolu granted the application and ordered that the defendant be remanded in EFCC custody.

The matter was adjourned till June 5, 2026, for the commencement of trial.

Crime

Police Arrest Sixteen Suspected Cultists

By Web News 197

By Abisola Oluremi

Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command have arrested sixteen suspected cult members during a coordinated operation at The Polytechnic, Ibadan. 

According to a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the action followed credible intelligence that suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity planned a meeting within the institution, prompting swift intervention to prevent a possible breach of peace.

The statement notes that after obtaining approval from the school authorities, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olugbenga Abimbola personally led the team to a location identified as the group’s alleged gathering point on campus. 

It points out that the officers carried out the operation without incident and arrested fourteen males and two females.

The statement adds that preliminary findings show that some of the suspects were already on the command’s watch list over alleged links to murder cases and other cult-related activities across the state.

Items recovered from them included two locally made cut-to-size guns, two pistols, sixteen live cartridges, four axes, and assorted charms.

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Crime

Elephant Attack Leaves One Dead, One Missing

By Web News 373

By Abisola Oluremi

A wild elephant has strayed into Innayin Community in Oyo State, killing one person and leaving another missing.

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO of the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, who stated this in a statement made available to newsmen, said the incident occurred at about 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, prompting an emergency response by police officers working with local vigilantes and hunters.

The officers later found the body of 45-year-old Ibrahim Tijani in a nearby bush with injuries linked to an animal attack.

They moved his remains to the General Hospital, Iwere-Ile, for examination and preservation.

DSP Ayanlade added that search teams are still looking for 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, who reportedly went missing after encountering the same elephant.

The statement advised residents of Innayin and neighbouring communities to avoid the affected area and report any sighting of the animal to security agencies.

It also noted that the command is working with the National Park Service Nigeria to manage the situation safely and prevent further casualties.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

El-Rufai Pleads Not Guilty to Amended Wiretapping Charges

By Web News 175

The Department of State Services on Thursday arraigned former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a five-count amended charge bordering on alleged unlawful interception of communications and breach of national security.

El-Rufai, who appeared before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, pleaded not guilty to all the counts.

At the resumed proceedings, DSS counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), informed the court that the matter was fixed for the defendant to take his plea, adding that a further amended five-count charge was filed on April 13.

He urged the court to substitute the earlier three-count charge with the amended one.

Count four of the amended charges reads “That you, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, adult, male, intentionally and without authorization, intercepted the communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as admitted by you on 13” February, 2026, while appearing as a guest on Arise TV Station’s Prime Time Programme in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.

Count five reads, “ That you, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, adult, male and other still at large, sometime in 2026, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable, did use technical equipment or systems which compromised public safety, national security and instilling reasonable apprehension of insecurity among Nigerians by unlawfully intercepting the communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to which you admitted during an interview on 13” February, 2026, on Arise TV Station’s Prime Time Programme in Abuja and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 131(2) of Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.”

Counsel to the defendant, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed he had been served with the amended charge and indicated that he was not opposing the substitution.

Following the application, the court struck out the earlier three-count charge and proceeded to read the amended counts to the former governor, who again entered a “not guilty” plea.

The prosecution thereafter applied for three consecutive trial dates. Still, the defence objected, arguing that the defendant’s access to counsel could be constrained due to his custody under the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

The defence also informed the court of a pending bail application filed on February 17, noting that a further affidavit was initially missing from the case file before it was later located during proceedings.

The DSS, however, stated that it did not oppose the bail application.

In a separate application, the prosecution sought an order to conceal the identities of two witnesses, requesting that their names be excluded from public court records and replaced with pseudonyms, citing safety concerns for their families.

The defence opposed the application, arguing that it infringed on the constitutional right of an accused person to know his accusers and that no evidence had been presented to justify fears of targeted attacks.

The defence further urged the court to compel the prosecution to disclose proof of evidence to enable adequate trial preparation, an application the prosecution also opposed, describing it as unrelated to the filed processes.

The defence additionally filed an application seeking to quash the amended charge, while the prosecution urged the court to dismiss it because it lacked merit and could not be sustained after the plea had been taken.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to May 18, 19, and 20 for hearing.

Punch/Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

Police Arrest Man with Six-year-old Girl’s Head in Oyo

By Web News 282

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man found with a human head in Ibadan, the state capital.

The command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, said in a statement on Sunday made available to journalists in Ibadan, the state capital, that the incident occurred on Saturday, April 11, in Adigun Village, Olorunda Ogunsola area of Ona-Ara Local Government Area.

According to Olayinka, the command acted on information that a young girl had been unlawfully killed and her head severed.

He said the head was allegedly found in the possession of one Sodiq Akorede at the Olorunda Ogunsola area.

He added that the Commissioner of Police, Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately directed operatives to move to the scene, secure the exhibit, and arrest the suspect despite resistance from an angry mob.

Ayanlade stated that the suspect was rescued from mob attack and taken into custody.

He said, “The command wishes to inform the general public of a tragic incident that occurred on April 11, 2026, in Adigun Village, Olorunda Ogunsola area of Ibadan.“ In connection with the above, the command received information that a young girl had been unlawfully killed, with her head severed and reportedly found in the possession of one Sodiq Kayode Akorede ‘M’ at the aforementioned location.“

“Upon receipt of this information, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, promptly directed that operatives be mobilised to the scene, the suspect be rescued, and the exhibit secured.“

“Consequently, in compliance with this directive, police officers swiftly mobilised to the scene and, despite stiff resistance from an irate mob, acted with professionalism, restraint, and in accordance with the law to successfully rescue and arrest the suspect, as well as secure the exhibit found in his possession.“

“Following the arrest, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect, one Sodiq Kayode Akorede ‘M’, aged 23, allegedly unlawfully killed a six-year-old girl, later identified as Mutiyatu Sunday ‘F’, and severed her head, which was recovered from him.“

“Furthermore, upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the commission of the crime. He was thereafter conveyed to a medical facility for necessary treatment following injuries sustained from the mob attack and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for discreet investigation and prosecution.”

The Commissioner of Police warned against jungle justice, saying it obstructs proper investigation and the course of justice.

The command also urged residents to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

Crime

Police Apprehend 27-year-old over Murder

By Web News 363

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old man, Chidi Ebere, for the alleged murder of a commercial motorcyclist in Igbesa area of the state.

The incident occurred early Wednesday morning when the suspect reportedly hired a motorcycle ridden by 36-year-old Sunday Ogbu.

During the trip, the suspect allegedly attacked the rider in an attempt to steal the motorcycle, leading to a violent struggle.

Witnesses raised the alarm, attracting the attention of Police officers who quickly reported to the scene.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the incident in a statement adding that the victim was rushed to a hospital but was later confirmed dead.

Mr Babaseyi said that the suspect was arrested on the spot, while the motorcycle and a knife believed to have been used in the attack were recovered.

Mr PPRO confirmed that the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

Man in Police Net for Alledgedly Stabbing Two to Death

By Web News 281

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Operatives of Ogun State Police Command have arrested a 25 year old Abubakar Musa for allegedly killing two persons and injuring three others at Olámbe area of the state.

In a statement, the Spokesperson of the command, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the arrest of the suspect in Abeokuta.

Mr Babaseyi explained that the suspect allegedly attacked the victims with a knife when they were trying to calm him down after failing in some business deals. 

The command’s spokesperson noted that two out of the five people the suspect stabbed were confirmed dead at the hospital while the remaining three persons were responding to treatment.

He said that the suspect had been sent to the State Criminal Investigation Department for investigation and prosecution.

Mr Babaseyi pointed out that the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Mr Bode Ojajuni, condemned the attack and promised that justice would be served. 

He urged people to stay alert and report any suspicious or violent behaviour to the police.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

Police Rescue Nine Foreigners from Ogun Fraud Syndicate

By Web News 317

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Police Command has rescued nine foreign nationals and arrested two suspects linked to a transnational fraud syndicate operating in the state.

The suspects, Stephen Kwame and Abubakar Sulaimon, were apprehended at their hideout in Owode-Egba in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.

Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the arrest followed actionable intelligence received through the International Criminal Police Organisation, INTERPOL.

He explained that operatives swiftly mobilised to the location where a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, Maclaud Owusu, was being unlawfully detained.

Mr Babaseyi said the operation led to the rescue of Owusu alongside eight other victims who were held under similar conditions noting that all the victims were rescued without injuries.

According to the police spokesperson, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects belong to an organised syndicate that lures foreign nationals, particularly from Ghana, with false promises of facilitating travel to Europe.

He noted that upon arrival in Nigeria, the victims were deceived, confined and forced to surrender their mobile phones, which were then used to contact their relatives for financial extortion.

Mr Babaseyi added that the principal victim had already been defrauded of thirty-one thousand Ghana cedis before the police intervention.

He stated that the suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

The police spokesperson also said the rescued victims are receiving necessary care.

Mr Babaseyi added that the principal victim has been reunited with his family, while efforts are ongoing to reconnect the others with their relatives.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

Police Arrest Man over Alleged Incest, Five Abortions

By Web News 377

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

A middle-aged man, Oluwadamilare Ewedemi, has been arrested by the police in Ijebu Ode area of Ogun State for allegedly sexually abusing and impregnating his daughter five times. 

The abuse was said to have begun in 2019, with the suspect allegedly procuring illegal abortion for each pregnancy.

The 21 years old victim (name withheld) reported her father to the Ifo division of the Ogun State Police Command.

According to her, she lost her mother when she was an infant and was placed in a motherless home in Ikeja, Lagos State, by her father, who later took her to Ijebu Ode in 2019 under the pretence of guardianship.

She alleged that her father began sexually abusing her in 2019 and continued the abuse for several years, leading to five pregnancies, which he aborted.

Speaking on the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi, who confirmed the suspect’s arrest, said the suspect would remain in custody and the case had been transferred to the Gender Desk for thorough investigation and prosecution as preliminary inquiries continued.

Crime

Police Arrest Notorious Kidnapper, Recover AK-47 Rifle

By Web News 492

By Abisola Oluremi

The Oyo State Police Command has announced the arrest of a suspected notorious kidnapper and the recovery of a firearm following a coordinated, intelligence-led security operation in the Ikoyi-Ile area of the state.

A statement signed by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the breakthrough followed credible information from a vigilant member of the public who reported the movement of three armed men seen around forests and farmlands in the community.

The suspects were reportedly armed with an AK-47 rifle and other dangerous weapons.

Acting swiftly on the tip-off, a joint team of operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer of Ikoyi-Ile Division carried out a thorough search of the surrounding bushes.

The operation led to the arrest of one suspect, identified as Muhammadu Abubakar, from whom an AK-47 rifle with breech number 6628/2274, six rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and three live cartridges were recovered.

The suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in a series of kidnapping activities along the Ogbomoso and Ikoyi-Ile axis.

Police said he had earlier been on the command’s watch list and is linked to several cross-border criminal operations.

He has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the gang.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

NCS Clamp Down on Vegetable Oil Smuggling

By Web News 853

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Ogun I Area Command, has intercepted 1,202 kegs of smuggled vegetable oil valued at ₦120.2 million in two intelligence-led operations conducted on March 19 and 24, 2026. 

The Command said the seizures were part of sustained efforts to curb smuggling and protect local vegetable oil producers from unfair competition.

The Command noted that the latest interceptions followed earlier seizures of 2,539 kegs of vegetable oil on March 11, 2026 and 2,090 kegs on December 16, 2025, 

In a related development, Customs officers also intercepted 285 sacks of mica stones, weighing 50 kilograms each and valued at ₦104.7 million, during an anti-smuggling operation. 

The seized minerals were subsequently handed over to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development at the Command headquarters in Abeokuta.

Speaking during the handover, the Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command, Oladapo Afeni, said the illegal export of solid minerals undermines government revenue and poses threats to national security, while reiterating the Command’s commitment to working closely with relevant agencies to enforce mining and environmental regulations.

Receiving the items on behalf of the Ministry, Engineer Ojediran Olubumi commended the Command for its vigilance and professionalism, adding that the recovered mica would undergo further geological analysis and be incorporated into the national mineral database.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

Police Rearraign NYSC Official Over Corps Member’s Death

By Web News 369

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

An Ogun State Magistrate Court sitting in Isabo, Abeokuta, has ordered the remand of a National Youth Service Corps official, Abass Olalekan, for 60 days over his alleged involvement in the death of a 23-year-old corps member, Victoria Ariyo, following a suspected unlawful abortion.

The remand order was issued by Magistrate O.T. Odubanjo after an ex parte application filed by the police prosecutor, Solomon Babalola, seeking the defendant’s custody pending legal advice from the Ogun State Directorate of Public Prosecutions.

Olalekan, who was initially arraigned on a two-count charge of conspiracy and attempt to procure abortion, had earlier pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of five hundred thousand naira with stipulated conditions.

Proceedings, however, took a new turn when the defendant was re-arraigned on an amended four-count charge, which now includes murder.

The charge sheet alleged that Olalekan and others conspired to procure an unlawful abortion for the deceased at Ikereku, Laderin in   Abeokuta and that he supplied the drugs that led to her death.

The prosecutor told the court that the remand was necessary to enable the police conclude investigations and obtain legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions on the upgraded charges.

In his ruling, Magistrate Odubanjo granted the application and ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Oba Correctional Centre, Abeokuta, pending the advice of the DPP.

The case had been adjourned until June 1, 2026 for further proceedings.