Abducted Oyo principal urges public to stop spreading false claims
The principal of one of the three schools attacked by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, Mrs. Folake Alamu, has appeared in a new video 24 days after her abduction. In the footage circulating on social media, she appealed to the public to stop spreading false information about the kidnappers’ demands. Alamu said reports claiming the abductors were demanding ₦1 billion ransom, weapons, or the implementation of Sharia law were inaccurate and could complicate efforts to secure the captives’ release.
FG weighs response to attacks on Nigerians in South Africa
The Federal Government has condemned renewed attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa and says it is considering possible retaliatory measures. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, told State House correspondents on Monday that any decision would require consideration at the highest levels of government, including the National Assembly. She stressed that Nigeria would respond appropriately after consultations.
Bandit kingpin explains delay in hostage release
Notorious bandit leader Kachalla Muhammad has claimed he withheld the release of Hajiya Amina Abubakar, wife of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe, despite an earlier promise. In an audio message circulating online, the bandit said he suspended the release because of a heavy security presence in the area and did not want security agencies taking credit for freeing the hostage.
Missing Edo woman found in Delta hotel with lover
A woman identified as Oluchi, previously reported kidnapped in Edo State, has been found in a hotel in Delta State with her lover. Family members had reportedly launched efforts to secure her release after alleged ransom demands followed her disappearance. The discovery has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the reported abduction.
ASUU warns over delay in payment of allowances
The Academic Staff Union of Universities chapter at North West University Kano has urged the Federal and Kano State governments to settle outstanding allowances captured in the 2025 ASUU-FGN agreement. The union warned that continued delays could destabilise the university system, adding that lecturers are rapidly losing patience over the issue.
Bandits abduct 50 elders on reconciliation mission in Zamfara
At least 50 elderly residents of Magamin Diddi village in Zamfara State have been kidnapped while on a reconciliation mission. The victims were reportedly abducted by bandits loyal to notorious kingpin Jammo, who operates from the Muntsira Forest in Maradun Local Government Area. Authorities are yet to announce rescue efforts.
Health worker beheaded in fresh Benue attack
A health worker identified as Ojoma Emie has reportedly been beheaded by armed attackers in Ikobi community, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State. Sources said the victim was travelling to Ugbokpo on Monday evening when he was ambushed. The killing is the latest in a string of violent attacks across parts of the state.
Three feared dead as Warri-Itakpe train derails
Three people are feared dead and at least 35 others injured following the derailment of the Warri-Itakpe train near Agbor in Delta State. Rescue operations involving security personnel and local residents were launched immediately after the incident to evacuate trapped passengers and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
Soldier killed, another injured in Ogun attack
Gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed a serving soldier and wounded another in the Mowe-Ibafo area of Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State. The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday and caused panic among residents, who described it as a surprise assault by heavily armed men.
Lagos APC names Hamzat’s running mate
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has announced Damilola Sonayon-James, the party’s Deputy Woman Leader in the state, as the running mate to governorship candidate Dr. Obafemi Hamzat. State APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi disclosed the decision in a statement issued on Monday.
Tinubu hails security forces for defending Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu has praised Nigeria’s security personnel for their sacrifices in combating terrorism, banditry and other crimes. In a personally signed message, Tinubu described the officers as a shield protecting innocent citizens and assured Nigerians that the country would not surrender to fear. He also urged citizens to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
Shettima defends Tinubu’s tough economic policies
Vice President Kashim Shettima has defended the economic reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, saying leadership often requires difficult and unpopular decisions. Speaking at a Lagos investment summit, Shettima argued that the government’s policies are aimed at restoring investor confidence and strengthening fiscal sustainability. He added that Lagos remains a key economic gateway for West Africa.
Dalung alleges plot against El-Rufai
Former Sports Minister Solomon Dalung has claimed that President Bola Tinubu is afraid of former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai. Speaking during a podcast interview, Dalung alleged there was a deliberate effort to keep El-Rufai politically sidelined until after the 2027 elections. The presidency has not responded to the claims.
Presidency confirms three deaths in train derailment
The Presidency has confirmed that three passengers died in Monday’s derailment of the Warri-Itakpe Train Service in Delta State. The Nigerian Railway Corporation said emergency responders were at the scene assisting victims. The Presidency extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and promised further updates as investigations continue.
Borno rejects claims of ransom payment for 360 captives
The Borno State Government has dismissed reports that ransom was paid to secure the release of 360 abductees rescued from the Mandara Mountains. Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, said the operation was achieved through intelligence-led military action supported by the Department of State Services. The rescued victims included men, women and children.
Abducted principal denies ₦1bn ransom, Sharia demand reports
Mrs. Folake Alamu, one of the school officials kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has debunked reports alleging that her captors demanded ₦1 billion ransom, weapons and the implementation of Sharia law. In a fresh video released by the abductors, she urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation that could jeopardise negotiations for their freedom.
Don Jazzy opens up on school-time rejection
Popular music executive Don Jazzy has revealed that he sought out girls who rejected him during secondary school after he became successful. Speaking on a podcast, the Mavin Records boss said the repeated rejection left psychological scars that followed him into adulthood, prompting him to revisit those experiences after achieving fame.
SkyB laments lack of support from younger artistes
Veteran singer SkyB has expressed disappointment over what he describes as neglect from younger artistes he once supported. Speaking in a recent interview, he said musicians from Port Harcourt who rose after him, including Burna Boy, did not provide the assistance he expected. SkyB said he hoped for collaborations or financial backing to revive his career.
Konate agrees four-year deal with Real Madrid
France defender Ibrahima Konate has reportedly agreed a four-year contract with Real Madrid after leaving Liverpool FC. The deal is expected to run until 2030, with an official announcement anticipated soon. Konate made 183 appearances for Liverpool and won both the FA Cup and League Cup during his time at Anfield.
Yamal, Williams set for Spain World Cup opener
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente says Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are expected to be fit for the country’s opening World Cup match against Cape Verde on June 15. The two wingers have been recovering from hamstring injuries but are reportedly progressing well and remain on course for selection.
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