The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a combined military organization of the United States and Canada responsible for aerospace warning and defense, has confirmed that military aircraft from its force will soon be arriving at a key United States military installation in Greenland. According to NORAD’s announcement on Monday, these movements are part of long‑scheduled operational activities and reflect ongoing collaboration among allied defense partners. NORAD emphasized that this deployment of aircraft to the Pituffik Space Base — a strategic location in northwest Greenland — is intended to support shared defense objectives. While the announcement did not disclose specific operational details or missions planned at the base, it reiterated that the activities are connected to broad defense cooperation efforts designed and agreed upon well in advance. The organization further noted that all aspects of the upcoming operations have been coordinated with the government of Denmark, and that Greenland’s authorities have received appropriate notification. NORAD clarified that these activities should be viewed within the context of routine allied planning and engagement, not as a deviation from long‑standing defense practices. In addition to the forces arriving at Pituffik Space Base, NORAD stated that aircraft from its other locations within the continental United States and Canadian defense installations will participate in these operations. “They will support a variety of long‑scheduled NORAD activities, expanding on the sustained defense cooperation between the United States and Canada, as well as the Kingdom of Denmark,” said the joint command in its release. The statement also highlighted that NORAD continually conducts extended and geographically distributed operations to fulfill its mandate of defending North America’s air and space domains. The timing of this announcement comes amid heightened geopolitical tension following comments from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding potential American control over Greenland — an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The president has publicly suggested that the United States might assert control of the island “one way or the other,” a remark that has triggered concern among several U.S. transatlantic allies. Over the preceding weekend, President Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on nations opposing his policy direction for Greenland. This followed the arrival of small military delegations from several European countries participating in an Arctic exercise, to which the United States had also been invited. In response to evolving security dynamics in the Arctic region, Denmark has recommended that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) expand its surveillance operations in Greenland as part of a broader effort to address emerging defense challenges in the High North.
A viral video has appeared online depicting the exact moment when former Attorney‑General of the Federation (AGF) and ex‑Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), was taken back into custody by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) just after exiting the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. According to eyewitness footage and multiple independent reports, Malami was seen walking away from the prison premises and moments later was intercepted by DSS officials in what appears to be a rearrest operation immediately following his release upon meeting bail conditions previously set by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Before being placed into a waiting vehicle, the former AGF reportedly asked the agents to identify themselves and show their official identification — a detail captured in the now‑circulating video. Context Behind the Rearrest Malami had been detained in connection with an ongoing money laundering case before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alongside his son and wife, involving charges linked to alleged unlawful financial transactions totalling billions of naira. Although bail was granted by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court — with strict conditions including high financial and surety requirements — his freedom was short‑lived due to an apparent new security investigation. Reports indicate that the DSS takeover of the matter followed the discovery by EFCC operatives of arms and ammunition at Malami’s country residence in Kebbi State — a development that falls outside the anti‑graft agency’s statutory jurisdiction and thus was reportedly handed over to the DSS for deeper probe. What Security Sources Are Saying Security insiders have confirmed the Department of State Services acted on multiple petitions alleging terrorism financing against the ex‑AGF, describing these allegations as highly serious and warranting thorough investigation under national and international statutes. This arrest has sparked widespread public interest and debate across social platforms and media outlets, especially because of the dramatic nature of the video and the circumstances immediately following Malami’s release from the correctional centre. As of now, neither the DSS nor Malami’s legal representatives have issued detailed public statements specifying the charges in the latest custody, though laws on terrorism financing and illegal arms possession are among the possible frameworks being investigated.
Kindly Share:
Lagos, Nigeria – A potentially dangerous situation was successfully avoided in Apapa, Lagos, yesterday, thanks to the timely intervention of police officers from the Apapa Area Command and officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). The incident occurred after a diesel-laden tanker toppled over at the Liverpool area of Apapa, prompting a crowd of residents and passersby to attempt to collect the spilled fuel. The fully loaded tanker had fallen off a bridge in the midday hours, causing diesel to spill across the road and obstructing the free movement of traffic. The accident led to significant congestion, with vehicles at a standstill for several hours as authorities worked to secure the area. The dangerous scenario was further exacerbated as local residents and onlookers gathered at the scene, using buckets and jerry cans to scoop up the highly flammable diesel. Many disregarded the severe fire and explosion risks posed by the substance. According to reports obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, a unit of policemen and LASTMA officials arrived promptly at the scene. Observing the crowd attempting to collect the spilled diesel, the authorities took decisive action to disperse them, ensuring that the situation did not escalate into a disaster. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), LASTMA confirmed that traffic had been redirected to the opposite side of the bridge as a precautionary safety measure. Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Lagos State Fire Service, the Nigeria Police Force, and LASTMA, were actively managing the scene to prevent any potential fire hazards. The statement further highlighted the presence of additional security and safety agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and officials from the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA). These teams were tasked with ensuring the safe evacuation of vehicles, preventing fire outbreaks, and restoring normal traffic flow in the area. At the time of reporting, there was no confirmation regarding whether a mechanical failure, such as brake malfunction, caused the tanker to topple. Footage shared by LASTMA showed residents with numerous jerry cans and buckets attempting to gather as much diesel as possible, despite the evident danger. Fortunately, there was no fire outbreak during the incident. By 3 p.m., when Vanguard visited the site, LASTMA officials had reopened the road that had initially been closed to manage traffic and ensure public safety. The coordinated response from law enforcement and traffic authorities ultimately prevented a potentially catastrophic incident in one of Lagos’s busiest transport hubs. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of adhering to safety regulations around fuel spills and hazardous materials, as well as the vital role of emergency services in protecting public safety.
Kindly Share:
Two middle-aged men lost their lives during the weekend in Odukpani, a community close to Calabar in Cross River State, after a violent confrontation involving machetes over a farm dispute. The fatal incident occurred in Akpap-Okoyong, a community within Odukpani Local Government Area of the state, where both men reportedly sustained severe machete injuries during a heated altercation. A resident of the area, Ettenma, who witnessed the aftermath, identified the deceased individuals as Edet and Effiong. According to his account, the conflict began when Effiong went to his farm and discovered that a bunch of plantain had been cut and removed without his consent. While expressing his anger loudly, someone allegedly informed him that Edet had been seen carrying a bunch of plantain from the direction of the farm. Following this information, Effiong reportedly went to Edet’s residence armed with a machete to confront him over the missing plantain. The discussion soon escalated into a physical confrontation, during which machetes were used by both men. Ettenma explained that Effiong, acting in anger, first inflicted machete cuts on Edet. In response, Edet picked up a machete that was beside him and struck Effiong. Before other members of the community could intervene or stop the fight, both men had already sustained deep and critical injuries. After the altercation, the injured men were taken to a nearby health centre. However, they reportedly could not receive adequate medical care due to the lack of proper facilities and equipment needed to handle the severity of their wounds. As a result, both Edet and Effiong later died from excessive blood loss and dehydration, according to the eyewitness. The tragic development has reportedly plunged the Akpap-Okoyong community into deep mourning. When contacted, the spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, Akata, confirmed that investigations were ongoing. He stated that authorities were working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the violent confrontation and why no immediate intervention occurred during the machete attack.
Kindly Share:
A tragic incident has been recorded in Rivers State following a shooting involving officers of the Nigeria Police Force. A Police Inspector identified as Victor Okus reportedly opened fire on two fellow officers after a confrontation in Port Harcourt. Details surrounding the disagreement that led to the shooting remain unclear at this time. However, preliminary information indicates that all officers involved were personnel attached to the 17 Police Mobile Force (PMF) and were deployed on special assignment at Intels, Onne, before the unfortunate event occurred. Following the shooting, Inspector Okus was swiftly apprehended and has since been placed under Police detention pending further investigations. Confirming the development, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, described the occurrence as deeply unfortunate and distressing. She disclosed that the incident took place on Sunday, noting that one officer lost his life instantly, while the second victim sustained serious injuries and was rushed for medical care. According to her official statement, the deceased officer has been identified as Inspector Ibrahim Sani. She explained that Inspector Okus, who was attached to 17 PMF but deployed on special duty at Intels, Onne, allegedly carried out the attack during an operational assignment. Further clarification from the Unit Commander of 14 PMF, Turaki Hassan, revealed that the shooting occurred at approximately 1:20 pm at Next Cash and Carry Supermart, located in Trans-Amadi, Port Harcourt. At the time, Inspector Ibrahim Sani and Inspector Daniel Dauda, both attached to 14 PMF, Yola, were on joint security duty alongside military personnel. Inspector Okus was accused of firing shots that struck his colleagues in sensitive areas, including the head and neck. The injured officers were immediately transported to Nopsam Hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, Inspector Sani later succumbed to his injuries, while Inspector Dauda remains under medical supervision. The remains of the deceased officer have been deposited at the Military Hospital Mortuary in Port Harcourt for preservation and post-mortem examination. Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. He further stated that the suspect would undergo an Orderly Room Trial before being formally arraigned in court. The Police Commissioner emphasized that firearm handling is a critical responsibility and warned officers against negligence or misconduct while on duty. He stressed the importance of prioritizing safety at all times to prevent avoidable tragedies within the Force.
Kindly Share:
Workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) on Monday began an indefinite industrial action, effectively bringing government operations across Abuja to a halt. The strike action led to the complete shutdown of government offices, including the FCTA Secretariat, where a noticeable security deployment was recorded early in the morning. A visit to the secretariat around 8:10 a.m. revealed that operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) alongside officers of the Nigeria Police Force were positioned at the main entrance, restricting access to the premises. A security officer at the scene, who requested anonymity, confirmed that workers were barred from entering the complex due to the ongoing strike, stating that staff of both FCDA and FCTA were not permitted into the offices as part of the industrial action. The work stoppage disrupted official activities across all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals operating within the Federal Capital Territory. This development followed a prior warning issued by the workers on Friday, in which they announced their intention to shut down government offices throughout the FCT and its area councils if their demands were not addressed. The decision to withdraw services was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which instructed workers across all levels and cadres to down tools. The union cited the continued neglect of long-standing labour and welfare concerns by the authorities as the reason for the action. Information gathered indicated that the strike commenced after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCTA management. According to the unions, the ultimatum elapsed without meaningful response, despite several engagements held within the period. The ultimatum, which took effect on January 7, 2026, was outlined in a statement dated January 8, jointly signed by JUAC President, Rifkatu Iortyer, and Secretary, Abdullahi Saleh. Copies of the notice were forwarded to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services. Addressing journalists at the FCT Secretariat on Monday, JUAC Vice President, Musa Istifanus, explained that the industrial action became inevitable after repeated efforts to engage the FCTA leadership and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, yielded no results. According to him, the unions had resolved to shut the gates of the FCTA, FCDA, and all affiliated agencies, stressing that workers’ welfare remained the core issue. Istifanus stated that since the beginning of the current administration, labour relations between workers and the FCTA management had been strained, adding that the minister had consistently declined meetings with union representatives, despite the union being a critical stakeholder in the system. He noted that employees were battling multiple unresolved welfare challenges, including promotion-related concerns. Recalling earlier developments, Istifanus said workers staged a protest in June of the previous year, after which the management engaged them and reached certain resolutions. However, he lamented that none of the agreed actions had been implemented since that engagement. The JUAC vice president also criticised the 2024 promotion exercise conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission, describing the process as poorly handled and unfair to staff. He explained that the promotion examination, held in November 2024, was conducted using computer-based testing (CBT) for the first time in the FCT administration. The union had earlier appealed for adequate training of staff before the examination, but the request was allegedly ignored. Istifanus further alleged that the examination was plagued by technical failures, including malfunctioning computer systems, which were reported during the exercise but not addressed by the commission. He accused the leadership of the FCT Civil Service Commission of disregarding complaints raised by affected staff during the examination process. On the results of the exercise, he disclosed that when the outcomes were eventually released—about one to two weeks prior—approximately 75 percent of candidates failed, a development he described as unacceptable and one of the major triggers of the strike. Beyond promotions, Istifanus also accused the administration of failing to fully implement an approved wage award for FCT workers and neglecting statutory deductions. He stated that although the minister had approved a wage award for staff and promised immediate payment from September of the previous year, only one month’s payment out of five months owed was released recently, allegedly after management became aware of union mobilisation. Additionally, he alleged that pension contributions, including contributory pension deductions and National Housing Fund payments, had not been remitted since May of the previous year, alongside other statutory deductions. According to him, all attempts by the union to secure a direct meeting with the FCT Minister to resolve these matters had so far been unsuccessful.
Kindly Share:
Reports alleging that more than 100 worshippers were abducted during attacks on two churches in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have been firmly rejected by the Kaduna State Government and the Kaduna State Police Command. Authorities described the claims as inaccurate, misleading, and capable of triggering unnecessary panic. The denial followed widespread reports that suspected bandits allegedly invaded Cherubim and Seraphim Church 1 and Cherubim and Seraphim Church 2 in the Kurmin Wali community on Sunday, during church services, and kidnapped a large number of worshippers. Reacting to the reports, the Chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend John Hayab, earlier disclosed that he received an emergency call from the CAN chairman in the affected area. According to him, the information relayed suggested that residents of Kurmin Wali were taken from both Cherubim and Seraphim churches during worship sessions. Hayab explained that the attackers reportedly arrived while services were ongoing, secured the church premises by locking the gates, and compelled worshippers to move with them into nearby bush areas. He further claimed that as many as 163 worshippers were allegedly being held, while noting that eight individuals reportedly managed to escape from captivity. Describing the alleged incident as a deliberate effort to spread fear and fuel religious division, the CAN leader stated that such actions would not weaken the determination of Christian bodies to pursue peace and cooperation with government institutions. He emphasized that despite the disturbing nature of the report, religious leaders remained committed to working alongside security agencies and public authorities to halt criminal activities in the region. Hayab also appealed to the Federal Government, the Kaduna State Government, and all relevant security agencies to urgently scale up rescue operations aimed at securing the freedom of those allegedly abducted. He assured that Christian groups would remain united and willing to share credible intelligence that could help expose criminal networks behind such acts. According to him, security operatives had already begun responding to the report, expressing appreciation for their efforts while urging them to intensify actions to ensure the safe return of the alleged victims without harm. However, the Kaduna State Police Commissioner, Alhaji Muhammad Rabiu, publicly refuted the abduction narrative, stating that investigations did not support the claims being circulated. Speaking to journalists after a State Security Council meeting held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Monday, Rabiu described the report as the handiwork of “conflict entrepreneurs” whose aim was to disrupt peace and stability within the state. The police commissioner challenged individuals spreading the information to present verifiable details, including names and identities of the supposed victims, to substantiate their claims. He further cautioned against the circulation of unconfirmed stories, warning that those deliberately spreading false information would face legal consequences, as such actions could undermine the relative calm currently enjoyed in Kaduna State. In the same vein, the Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Dauda Madaki, also dismissed the reports after conducting independent checks. Madaki explained that immediately after receiving information about the alleged incident, he deployed police officers and other security personnel to Kurmin Wali to assess the situation firsthand. According to him, a physical inspection of the churches mentioned in the reports revealed no signs of an attack or abduction. He added that consultations with the village head, Mai Dan Zaria, confirmed that no such incident occurred within the community. Madaki further stated that the local youth leader, Bernard Bona, who spoke to journalists during the visit, also affirmed that there was no record or evidence of a church attack or mass kidnapping. He therefore urged anyone insisting that an abduction took place to come forward with concrete information, including the identities of the alleged abducted individuals, to support their assertions.
Kindly Share:
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has strongly criticised the conduct of some residents who endangered their lives by attempting to scoop petrol from a fallen tanker at the Liverpool Bridge axis of Apapa on Monday. The governor described the act as reckless, unsafe, and a clear disregard for personal and public safety. Reacting to the incident, Sanwo-Olu expressed deep concern that individuals chose to ignore obvious dangers in pursuit of material benefit. He warned that actions such as fuel scooping around accident scenes could easily trigger explosions, fire outbreaks, and fatal casualties, particularly in high-traffic industrial zones like Apapa. The governor stressed that safety protocols were completely neglected during the incident, noting that such behaviour has the potential to result in avoidable tragedies. He emphasised that no amount of financial gain justifies risking human lives. Despite condemning the actions of those involved, Sanwo-Olu commended the swift response of emergency services and security operatives. He specifically acknowledged the Lagos State emergency responders and the Nigeria Police Force for their prompt intervention, whichwhich helped to cordon off the area and avert further danger. The governor cautioned residents across the state to desist from repeating similar actions in the future, reiterating that public safety must always be prioritised over opportunistic behaviour. According to him, Lagos cannot afford preventable disasters caused by avoidable negligence. Beyond the tanker incident, Sanwo-Olu also addressed the wider issue of public indiscipline in the state. He expressed dissatisfaction with the persistent habit of indiscriminate waste disposal, particularly the dumping of refuse on road medians and public spaces. The governor disclosed that his administration would begin enforcing stricter penalties this year against environmental offenders. He added that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) had been instructed to actively arrest individuals found violating waste disposal regulations, noting that firm enforcement would serve as a deterrent to others. Speaking further, Sanwo-Olu clarified issues surrounding the ongoing demolition exercise in Makoko. He explained that affected residents whose structures were located between 150 and 250 metres from high-tension power lines had received evacuation notices more than two years before the commencement of the demolition. He reaffirmed that the exercise was carried out strictly on safety grounds, emphasising the dangers posed by residential buildings located too close to power infrastructure. According to the governor, the government’s primary responsibility remains the protection of lives and critical assets. Sanwo-Olu assured that residents affected by the Makoko demolition would not be abandoned. He stated that the state government had made provisions for palliatives and relocation assistance to support displaced individuals and families. In closing, the governor reiterated his administration’s firm commitment to safeguarding the lives, property, and overall wellbeing of Lagos residents. He maintained that the government would continue to take decisive actions necessary to ensure public safety and order across the state.
Kindly Share:
Spain was plunged into mourning on Monday following a devastating railway collision in the southern Andalusia region that resulted in at least 21 deaths and left more than 70 passengers injured. The tragic incident prompted Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to describe the situation as a “night of deep pain” for the country. The fatal crash occurred on Sunday evening when a high-speed passenger train travelling from Malaga to Madrid derailed near the town of Adamuz. According to information shared by Spain’s rail infrastructure operator, Adif, the derailed train crossed onto an adjacent track and collided with another high-speed train travelling in the opposite direction. Both trains subsequently left the tracks. A spokesperson for the Spanish police confirmed to AFP that 21 people lost their lives in the collision. Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s top emergency response official, stated during a press briefing that at least 73 individuals sustained injuries. He warned that the death toll could rise further, describing the night as extremely challenging for rescue teams working at the scene. Transport Minister Óscar Puente explained that around 30 of the injured passengers were transported to hospitals in serious condition. He added that all victims had been evacuated from the wreckage and were receiving medical attention. Puente noted that the accident happened along a straight section of railway track that had undergone full renovation. He also pointed out that the first train to derail was almost brand new, calling the circumstances surrounding the crash “highly unusual.” Rail operator Iryo disclosed that approximately 300 passengers were onboard its Malaga–Madrid service at the time of the disaster. Rescue Efforts Hampered by Severe Damage Emergency responders faced immense difficulties as they worked through the wreckage. The large number of passengers trapped inside twisted train carriages complicated rescue operations. Francisco Carmona, the head of firefighters in Córdoba, told Spanish public broadcaster RTVE that the carriages had become severely mangled. According to him, metal structures were contorted around passengers, making access extremely difficult. In one instance, rescuers had to remove a deceased person to reach someone who was still alive. He described the rescue process as physically demanding and emotionally distressing. Some of the train cars had fallen down an embankment measuring roughly four metres in height, further complicating extraction efforts, Sanz confirmed. Survivors Describe Terrifying Moments Passengers who survived the collision recounted scenes of panic and confusion. Montse, a passenger on the second train heading toward Huelva, told Spanish public television that the train suddenly jolted to a halt before plunging into darkness. She recalled being violently tossed around in the final carriage as luggage flew across the cabin, striking other passengers. She said a train attendant seated behind her suffered a head injury and was bleeding, while children cried amid the chaos. Montse expressed gratitude for surviving, saying she felt as though she had been given another chance at life. Lucas Meriako, who was travelling on the first train that derailed, told La Sexta television that the scene resembled something out of a horror movie. He said passengers felt a powerful impact from behind, followed by a terrifying sense that the train might collapse entirely. Many people were injured by shattered glass, he added. Rail Services Suspended, Support Centres Opened Following the accident, Adif announced that all high-speed rail services connecting Madrid with Andalusian cities such as Córdoba, Seville, Malaga, and Huelva would remain suspended throughout Monday. The rail authority also confirmed that assistance centres had been established at major stations in Madrid, Seville, Córdoba, Malaga, and Huelva to support relatives and loved ones of the victims. Spain’s defence ministry stated that it was deploying approximately 40 personnel from its military emergency unit, along with around 15 vehicles, to help manage the aftermath of the crash. National and International Condolences Pour In Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez shared a message on X expressing the nation’s grief, stating that Spain was experiencing a night of profound sorrow due to the tragic accident in Adamuz. He acknowledged that words could not ease the suffering but assured affected families that the entire country stood with them. Spain’s royal household also issued a statement, saying that King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia were closely following developments with deep concern. They offered heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died and extended wishes for a swift recovery to the injured. Messages of sympathy also came from international leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Spain operates the largest high-speed rail network in Europe, spanning more than 3,000 kilometres and linking major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and Malaga. The country’s worst modern rail tragedy occurred in 2013, when a high-speed train derailed near Santiago de Compostela, killing 80 people and injuring more than 140. That incident remains Spain’s deadliest rail disaster since 1944.
Kindly Share:
The Osun State Police Command has opened a formal investigation into the killing of a former unit chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Kazeem Oyewole, who was reportedly attacked and killed by suspected hoodlums in Osogbo on Sunday. Following the incident, anxiety and unrest spread across several motor parks within the Osogbo metropolis. Reports indicated that individuals believed to be close associates of the deceased moved around major motor parks, allegedly searching for those thought to be responsible for Oyewole’s death. This development heightened fears of possible retaliation and further violence. Kazeem Oyewole previously served as the part-time chairman of the NURTW Aregbe Unit between 2018 and 2022. According to available information, he was attacked in the afternoon near Elelede Junction. As of the time of filing this report, the precise circumstances that led to his killing had not been fully established by authorities. A resident who witnessed parts of the incident from a distance, and who asked to remain anonymous due to security concerns, narrated the events to PUNCH Metro. The resident explained that a group of hoodlums had positioned themselves around Elelede Junction, where they were allegedly collecting money from people passing through the area. According to the witness, the group claimed the money was being raised for a proposed carnival. The witness further stated that while this activity was ongoing, a motorcycle carrying two individuals arrived at the junction. The hoodlums reportedly stopped the motorcycle and forced both passengers to get down before confronting them violently. According to the eyewitness, gunshots were heard during the confrontation. It was later discovered that one of the individuals being attacked was Kazeem Oyewole. The resident said that after the gunshots, the attackers brought large stones and repeatedly struck the head of the man identified as Kazeem. He was said to have died instantly at the scene. The second passenger, however, managed to escape despite sustaining an open injury. Shortly after the attack, the hoodlums reportedly fled the area before security personnel arrived. A shop owner operating near Elelede Junction, who identified herself simply as Basira, confirmed that normal business activities in the area were suddenly halted due to the violence. She said traders and residents were thrown into panic following the incident. Basira explained that members of the NURTW who arrived after the incident later identified the deceased as Kazeem Oyewole. She added that he was known to have served as a former part-time chairman of an NURTW unit along the Osogbo–Gbongan Road, located in the Aregbe area. Later in the day, a correspondent who monitored developments at the Old Garage and Aregbe motor parks observed that many residents avoided the parks entirely. The fear of possible reprisals kept commuters and traders away, while the presence of suspected hoodlums was also noticed around the vicinity, further increasing tension. Confirming the incident, the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, stated that the command had commenced an investigation into the killing. He explained that police officers were immediately deployed to the location after receiving the report, but one person had already been confirmed dead upon their arrival. According to Ojelabi, the deceased was identified as Kazeem, while his other name was not immediately known. He confirmed that investigations were ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing and identify those responsible. When asked whether additional security personnel had been deployed to motor parks to prevent the situation from escalating, the police spokesperson said the command was closely monitoring developments. He added that security operatives would continue to observe activities around the motor parks for the time being. The killing of Oyewole adds to a growing list of violent incidents involving NURTW leaders in Osun State. On November 27, 2025, another prominent NURTW figure, Adeboye Ademoroti, was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Ilesa. Although the details surrounding Ademoroti’s killing were also unclear, security sources disclosed that he and another individual were attacked by armed assailants in the Olomilagbala area of Ilesa. The attackers reportedly opened fire, resulting in his death.
Kindly Share:
The Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters in Kano State has been plunged into deep sorrow following the brutal killing of a 35-year-old woman and her six children, an incident that has shaken residents and sparked widespread outrage. According to information gathered by Sunday PUNCH, the victims, along with one other individual, were attacked and killed inside their residence on Saturday by unidentified hoodlums. The violent incident has left the community devastated, with residents mourning the loss and calling for urgent improvements in security to prevent such tragedies in the future. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers forcefully gained access to the house and assaulted the occupants using dangerous weapons. The nature of the attack has heightened fear among residents, many of whom described the incident as unprecedented in the area. The Kano State Police Command has since launched a full investigation into the matter. Confirming the development in an official statement on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Kiyawa, disclosed that the command received a distress call at approximately 12:10 pm, reporting a violent assault on the household of one Haruna Bashir. Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Bakori, swiftly mobilised a team of officers to the scene. The response team was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Lawal Mani, as part of immediate efforts to assess the situation and secure the area. Police authorities stated that the victims were promptly evacuated to the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital in Kano for urgent medical attention. However, medical personnel at the facility confirmed that all the victims were pronounced dead upon arrival. Further updates from the police revealed that the Assistant Commissioner of Police overseeing the Criminal Investigation Department, Wada Jarma, has been instructed to take charge of the investigation. His mandate includes identifying those responsible for the attack and ensuring their arrest. The Kano State Police Command expressed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, residents of Dorayi Chiranchi, and the entire people of Kano State. The command reassured the public that decisive steps are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore confidence in public safety across the state. The tragic incident has intensified calls from community members for stronger security measures, faster emergency response systems, and sustained law enforcement presence within residential areas.
Kindly Share:
Armed assailants have reportedly killed a police officer and abducted a Chinese expatriate during a violent attack on a farm located in Ogunmakin Community, within the Ibadan axis of Oyo State. Information gathered revealed that the incident occurred at approximately 1:00 pm on Thursday at Aqua Triton Company, where about ten heavily armed men invaded the premises in what witnesses described as a commando-style operation. During the attack, the gunmen reportedly stormed the agricultural facility while activities were ongoing. A company director identified as 42-year-old Renjith Pillai was said to be inspecting crops on the farm when the assailants struck. In the process, the attackers seized him and fled the scene. A police officer attached to the facility attempted to resist the assault and protect lives and property. Unfortunately, the officer lost his life during the confrontation while trying to repel the attackers. Some of the assailants were reportedly injured in the exchange before escaping with the abducted expatriate. The Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed the incident to journalists. He stated that the officer died in the line of duty while bravely confronting the gunmen. Although the identities of all victims were not officially released, Olayinka confirmed that the abducted individual was a Chinese expatriate and principal staff member of the company. According to him, security operatives have already launched a coordinated search operation aimed at rescuing the abducted expatriate and apprehending those responsible for the attack. He further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Femi Haruna, has ordered an immediate and intensive manhunt across the area and surrounding locations to track down the kidnappers and ensure they are brought to justice. The incident adds to ongoing security concerns in parts of the state, especially around isolated farming communities, and underscores the risks faced by security personnel and expatriate workers operating in such environments.
Kindly Share:
Nigeria’s Federal Government has once again made its position clear regarding the payment of ransom to kidnappers and terrorist groups. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has firmly reiterated that the government does not negotiate with criminals nor authorize ransom payments under any circumstance. Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa, the defence minister explained that Nigeria’s security forces rely on intelligence-led operations and swift military response to address cases of abduction across the country. According to him, the payment of ransom only worsens insecurity by encouraging criminal activity. General Musa emphasized that government policy strictly opposes ransom payments, noting that any money paid to secure the release of abducted persons usually comes from private individuals and not the state. He explained that once kidnappers and terrorist groups realize that ransom payments are guaranteed, more people are motivated to engage in such crimes. This, he said, creates a dangerous cycle that further threatens national security. Whenever cases of kidnapping are reported, Musa stated that the armed forces act immediately. Intelligence is gathered, locations are identified, and troops are deployed without delay. In many situations, sustained military pressure forces kidnappers to abandon their captives while fleeing into surrounding forests and remote areas. The defence minister noted that several victims have been rescued through this approach, stressing that consistent military action remains the most effective strategy for dismantling criminal networks. Addressing concerns over the persistent movement of terrorists across different regions, Musa pointed out that Nigeria’s large landmass presents a significant security challenge. He explained that when military operations intensify in one location, criminal groups often relocate to other areas to evade capture. According to him, this reality underscores the need for stronger border control measures. Musa highlighted the importance of monitoring individuals entering the country from neighbouring states to ensure proper identification and documentation. He further explained that border fencing and improved surveillance would help reduce the influx of illegal weapons, restrict the movement of terrorists, and prevent criminals from crossing borders to carry out attacks before escaping. The defence minister reaffirmed that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting lives and restoring security through strategic military operations, intelligence sharing, and strengthened border management rather than yielding to criminal demands.
