Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates has conveyed strong optimism regarding the trajectory of Africa’s development, specifically highlighting Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial epicenter, as a future global megacity. While addressing attendees at the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers event in Lagos, Gates emphasized that Lagos is on track to become the largest city globally, serving as a vivid indicator of Africa’s growing importance on the world stage. Gates applauded the continent’s youth-driven demographics, describing Africa as the most captivating region of the century due to its young and expanding population. “Africa is a very young continent,” he remarked. “More than half of all children born in this century will be African. That youthfulness will shape global trends in profound ways.” Using Lagos as a case in point for Africa’s rapid urban growth, Gates pointed out the city’s expanding population and its potential to serve as a vibrant hub of activity and innovation. “The city we’re in today will, by far, be the largest in the world. That’s going to make for a dynamic and vibrant environment, and the world will be watching,” Gates added. Despite this promising forecast, Gates issued a strong call to action regarding the investments required to harness the continent’s full potential—particularly in the sectors of healthcare and education. “Whether this young population drives transformative progress will depend on the choices we make in the next 20 years,” he noted. “If we invest wisely, Africa’s future is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has issued a firm warning to local government chairmen who neglect the state’s monthly security council meetings, stating that disciplinary action, including suspension, awaits those who fail to comply. During a high-level gathering of security stakeholders in Asaba, the governor expressed deep concern over escalating security issues in some areas of the state. He reiterated the critical role of council chairmen in grassroots security coordination and stressed that regular presence and active involvement in these meetings are mandatory and not optional. Governor Oborevwori highlighted that the state government intends to incorporate modern security technologies to combat crime more effectively. He voiced dissatisfaction upon learning that several local government leaders have been shirking their responsibilities, particularly in engaging with local security frameworks. Despite the challenges, the governor praised traditional leaders and security partners for their persistent support in fighting armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes within Delta State. He emphasized that the monthly meetings serve a vital purpose—evaluating security threats, exchanging intelligence, and enhancing coordinated responses to rising criminal activities. Citing the resurgence of kidnappings, cult-related violence, and drug misuse, the governor called on all stakeholders to intensify their efforts and reinforce the security architecture across the state. He also announced plans to deploy advanced surveillance systems, crime-mapping technologies, and data-driven intelligence tools to improve the efficiency of law enforcement and help deter crime. “Despite our best efforts, reports of insecurity, especially kidnappings, are still troubling. I urge the youth to refrain from spreading incendiary remarks on social media. Instead, they should collaborate with security operatives and local vigilante groups to confront criminal elements operating within their neighborhoods,” Oborevwori advised. While commending the efforts so far, he stressed that more work remains to be done to achieve lasting peace and safety. His Royal Majesty Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd.), Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom and Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, thanked the governor for organizing the security meeting. He also refuted widespread claims suggesting that traditional rulers distribute land to herders in exchange for money. Also addressing the meeting, Brigadier General Folu Shonibare, Commander of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Asaba, noted that the enlarged security council meeting successfully fostered agreement on strategies to tackle kidnapping, cultism, farmer-herder clashes, and drug-related issues across the state. In addition, Honourable Possible Ajede, Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area, who spoke on behalf of all council chairmen, said the meeting issued a direct instruction for all council leaders to return to their jurisdictions and intensify local security efforts. He stated emphatically that all criminal actors are now under an order to vacate Delta State.
Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Umar Bago, the wife of the Niger State governor and Chairperson of the State Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Management Committee, has expressed serious concern over the escalating cases of gender-based violence across the state. She urged for cohesive collaboration and unwavering dedication from all relevant stakeholders to combat the growing issue effectively. During her address at a two-day capacity-building training held in Minna, organized by the Niger State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Bago emphasized the need for collective responsibility in tackling gender-based violence. “This fight against GBV is not a battle for a single agency or person to win alone. It requires unity, empathy, expertise, and persistent commitment from every stakeholder,” she stressed. She highlighted the alarming rise in GBV incidents within local communities and called for responses that are not only reactive but also rooted in competence, structure, and coordination. “Our first responders and committee members have been working under challenging circumstances—limited tools, disjointed systems, and inconsistent practices. That changes now. We are taking decisive measures to reform this approach,” she affirmed. Meanwhile, Mairo Mann, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, expressed deep concern over the prevalence of rape, a particularly disturbing aspect of GBV. She underscored the devastating impact it has, even on infants and very young children. “It is encouraging that all 25 Local Government Councils in the upcoming elections have female vice-chairpersons. We are confident they will take this cause to the grassroots where change truly begins,” she noted. Mann also highlighted a positive development: increased awareness has led to more survivors reporting GBV cases. While acknowledging the trauma faced by victims, she stressed the importance of counseling and rehabilitation in helping them regain stability. “Healing after such a traumatic experience is difficult, but with proper counseling, many survivors are able to rebuild their lives,” she said. The workshop also featured Mrs. Olutoyin Falade, the lead consultant, who explained that the training aimed to equip committee members with essential skills and strategies to reduce and manage GBV across various sectors in Niger State. “Participants are being trained on holistic intervention techniques—covering health, psychosocial, and economic aspects—to support GBV survivors effectively,” she stated.
A leading public health advocate has raised the alarm about the growing health dangers linked to the rising intake of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) in Nigeria. The expert emphasized that Nigeria is experiencing a troubling surge in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other nutrition-related illnesses. In an exclusive conversation with LMSINT MEDIA, Abayomi Sarumi, Associate Director at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), revealed that the common consumption of sugary soft drinks is silently contributing to a national health crisis—particularly affecting the youth population. “Sugar-Sweetened Beverages are any drinks that contain added sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup, table sugar, honey, or molasses,” Sarumi clarified. These drinks include sodas, fruit-flavored beverages, energy drinks, and sports drinks, all of which are heavily loaded with sugar and far exceed the body’s energy needs. Sarumi warned that a single bottle of these sugary drinks contains up to 14 cubes of sugar, far beyond the daily limit advised by medical professionals. “This excessive sugar intake leads to spikes and crashes in blood sugar, which can trigger fatigue, irritability, and over time, serious conditions like heart disorders, obesity, and diabetes,” he noted. He stressed that these health complications are major risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which now account for over 30% of annual deaths in Nigeria. Sarumi also expressed concern about how widely accessible and aggressively marketed these beverages are, noting that many people see them as part of everyday life. “They are ultra-processed and often misrepresented as essential lifestyle choices. The marketing strategies used by these brands have normalized consumption, making people overlook the actual health risks,” he explained. Over 54 Billion Litres of Sugary Drinks Consumed Annually Using available data, Sarumi stated that Nigeria has become one of Africa’s top consumers of sugary beverages. “Nigeria was previously ranked fourth in Africa with 38 million litres of sugary beverages consumed. But by April 2025, new reports revealed that over 54 billion litres were consumed in 2024 alone,” he stated. This drastic rise correlates with an increase in fast food and ultra-processed snack consumption—fueling what he termed a “nutrition-related disease explosion.” “There has been a 150% increase in cardiovascular conditions over the past 10 years. As of 2022, over 27.5 million Nigerians suffer from high blood pressure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 22% of Nigerians now face a high risk of early death due to non-communicable diseases,” Sarumi added. Public Awareness Still Limited Although some individuals understand that sugar can be harmful, Sarumi believes the majority of Nigerians don’t grasp the serious link between sugary drinks and long-term health complications. “From our findings, most people don’t truly comprehend how damaging SSBs are,” he said. He also mentioned that myths and inaccurate advice further complicate public understanding. “There are still instances where patients are advised by healthcare workers to consume sugary drinks before medication. In our culture, health conditions like diabetes or heart disease are often perceived as spiritual attacks rather than linked to poor diets.” Why Sugary Beverages Appeal to Young Nigerians Sarumi attributed the popularity of sugary drinks among young Nigerians to the aggressive marketing tactics of beverage companies. “These products are inexpensive, available everywhere, and portrayed as symbols of fun and status. Unfortunately, they come without any health warnings,” he explained. “Moreover, these corporations use Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs to appear socially responsible, which makes it harder for the public to question their role in worsening public health,” he added. A Call to Action To cut down consumption, Sarumi endorsed the enforcement of a comprehensive Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax, stressing that it should serve more than a revenue purpose. “An effective SSB tax should not only lower consumption but also channel funds into the healthcare sector, particularly for individuals affected by nutrition-related diseases,” he said. He also recommended several complementary policies: “Implementing these strategies collectively will safeguard Nigerian lives, especially children, and enhance public health nationwide,” Sarumi concluded.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption (Psalm 16:10). Everything about the Lord Jesus was prophesied ahead of time: His birth, His life, His death, burial, resurrection, and His glorious ascension to heaven. No wonder He said, “…Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God” (Hebrews 10:7). His crucifixion, for example, was prophesied a thousand years beforehand. The psalmist gave such a beautiful description of it in Psalm 22 (read the entire reference). The Prophet Zachariah also prophesied about His death in Zechariah 12:10, saying, “…and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him….” This prophecy foretold the piercing of Jesus’ hands and feet, which happened during His crucifixion. Furthermore, Psalm 16:10 tells us about His resurrection, saying, “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.” When Jesus died on the Cross, He went to hell because every sinner who died was supposed to go to hell, and Jesus bore the sins of the whole world. However, in hell, He defeated the devil and the demons of darkness and came triumphantly back to life. Jonah’s experience also foreshadowed His resurrection. Jonah 1:17 says, “…And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” The Lord Jesus referenced this in Matthew 12:40 NIV, declaring, “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” Psalm 110:1 is prophetic of His exaltation; it says, “The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.” The Lord Jesus affirmed that this prophecy referred to Himself: “While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, Saying, What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The Son of David. He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? If David then call him Lord, how is he his son?” (Matthew 22:41-45). These prophecies and their fulfilment are essential to understanding the things Jesus said about His death and resurrection. They authenticate the truth that He’s indeed the Son of God—God in human flesh—as Romans 1:4 tells us. It says Jesus is declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. Blessed be God! PRAYERDear Father, I acknowledge the undeniable proof of your love demonstrated through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thank you for the victory He wrought for us, and for making us triumphant in Him. I live in the reality of His finished works, proclaiming His Lordship and righteousness to the ends of the earth. Hallelujah! FURTHER STUDYPsalm 22:14-16I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. 15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death. 16 For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. Isaiah 53:5But he [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. || Matthew 28:5-6And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. 6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 18:28-19:1-16 & 1 Chronicles 14-16 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 14:66-72 & Deuteronomy 2 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, and from sickness to health. I live above the limitations of the human body and the physical realm through the ability of God’s Spirit. Health, peace, joy, and the glorious life are my present-hour inheritance. I declare today that my body is strong and healthy! Sickness and infirmity have no place in me. The life of Christ is at work in every fiber of my being, in every bone of my body, and in every cell of my blood. I am alive and well! I am blessed and I am a blessing; I dispense life and grace to all I encounter. I exercise my authority over the devil and his cohorts. No wiles or fiery darts from the enemy can penetrate my body and no symptoms of sickness can thrive in my body because I’m God’s sanctuary. My faith is a weapon of defence and an instrument of victory over and against the adversary and adversities. With it, I put out all the fiery missiles of the wicked one. I can never be small because the anointing of God’s Spirit has set me apart for greatness, causing me to spread and make progress on every side. I am recording great and notable achievements in my ministry, career, finances, academics, family, and in all that concerns me. I am enjoying my days in success, progress, peace, joy, health, and unending prosperity. My eyes of understanding are enlightened; I see the invisible and I’m empowered to do the impossible. My life goes only in the direction of God’s purpose; therefore, I’ll never be sick in life. I can only grow from strength to strength, for divinity has been activated in my body. The life of Christ in me makes me superhuman! By
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Tuesday evening, warmly received Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, at his private residence in Ikoyi, Lagos. Joining the Governor were his elder brother, Chief Adedeji Adeleke, a respected entrepreneur and philanthropist, and his nephew, globally recognized Afrobeat star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido. This meeting was announced by Dada Olusegun, Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, who revealed the visit via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, @DOlusegun. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu receives in audience, H.E. Ademola Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State, and Chief Adedeji Adeleke at his residence in Lagos,” Olusegun posted. Though specific discussions from the private meeting were not disclosed, insider sources described the engagement as respectful and aligned with the President’s broader mission to connect with influential individuals across the political divide. Governor Adeleke, a notable figure within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has previously acknowledged the President’s inclusive governance approach, especially his dedication to fostering unity over partisan politics. Chief Adedeji Adeleke is well known for his impactful role in Nigeria’s business and education sectors. Meanwhile, Davido’s appearance at the meeting sparked buzz across social platforms, with many interpreting it as a strong gesture toward unity and cross-generational political dialogue. This notable gathering happens in the midst of a wave of strategic political interactions across Nigeria. However, no official link has been made to the 2027 general elections.
In response to the relentless assaults by armed herders, a significant number of women convened in Ugbokpo, the administrative center of Apa Local Government Area in Benue State, to protest the ongoing violence and devastation in their communities. The demonstrators, bearing placards with messages such as “Apa is our land, not for Fulani” and “Government has failed us,” marched through the streets, voicing their anguish over the loss of lives and property. This protest was precipitated by recent attacks on Ijaha, Ibele, Ochekwu, and Edikwu Ankpali communities, which resulted in 28 fatalities and numerous injuries. Organized under the banner of ‘The Voice of the Voiceless Women in Apa,’ the protesters had previously notified authorities and security agencies of their intentions through a letter endorsed by the Hunter Group, Apa Chapter. The letter detailed the atrocities committed by the herders, including invasions of homes and farms, leading to the deaths of children, husbands, and other loved ones. One protest leader highlighted the government’s prolonged silence, comparing the severity of the attacks to those in the Northeast, stating that the herders’ actions were more brutal and dehumanizing. Despite attempts to reach out, the Chairman of Apa Local Government Council, Mr. Adams Ocheiga, declined to comment on the situation.
Renowned Nollywood actress Biola Bayo has officially confirmed that she and her husband, Oluseyi, are no longer together. The emotional revelation came on Tuesday afternoon via a heartfelt post the actress shared on her Instagram page as part of her birthday message. In the Instagram post, Biola Bayo opened up that her separation from Oluseyi took effect in April 2024, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason behind their breakup. Addressing her fans and followers, she expressed regret over the collapse of her marriage. In her words:“I’m sincerely sorry, I wished it worked but it’s better to stay alive to tell the story. Please keep us in your prayers.” The actress also offered a glimpse into the emotional turmoil she has endured, revealing:“While I go about making other people happy in the day, my pillow is drenched with my own tears almost every night for the past 14 months but I gain strength from Christ who loves me eternally and gave himself for me.” Biola Bayo had tied the knot with Oluseyi in April 2021, and their union had attracted admiration from fans across the entertainment industry. Before her marriage to Oluseyi, the actress was previously wedded to a UK-based man known simply as Ola, in October 2012. Unfortunately, that marriage ended in 2014. ? You can view her original post on Instagram:Biola Bayo’s Birthday Revelation Post
Professor Leonard Karshima Shilga, a renowned political commentator, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss suggestions for a declaration of emergency rule in Benue State. He argued that such a measure, while potentially offering short-term relief, may severely damage public confidence in democratic institutions if taken without fully exploring constitutional options. Prof Shilga voiced his concern in a public statement on Tuesday, following the alarming wave of violent attacks in various communities across Benue allegedly perpetrated by suspected herdsmen. In his open letter titled “A Constitutional and Moral Rebuttal to the Call for Emergency Rule in Benue State”, the academic contended that constitutional restrictions often render governors powerless during security crises. He emphasized the need for President Tinubu to address these structural ambiguities and clarify the roles of governors in matters of internal security. He pointed out that in many instances, federal security agencies either disregard or undermine state laws. According to him, the authority vested in governors to direct state police commissioners is largely ineffective due to the federal government’s overriding influence. Prof Shilga’s Recommendations for Resolving Benue’s Security Challenges To address the insecurity in Benue, Prof Shilga urged the president to: Prof Shilga further encouraged the President to foster a stronger partnership between federal and state security agencies to improve intelligence sharing and boost operational effectiveness. He concluded by emphasizing the need for more robust support and funding for local security outfits to advance community policing across the state.
Human rights advocate and legal practitioner, Deji Adeyanju, has harshly criticized Pastor David Ibiyeomie, the General Overseer of Salvation Ministries, for issuing threats to detain individuals who post unfavorable comments or reports about him. According to a report from LMSINT MEDIA, the popular cleric was seen in a now-viral video accusing anonymous bloggers of intentionally misrepresenting his sermons. He also alleged that some church attendees were aiding these bloggers in spreading misinformation. In the footage, Pastor Ibiyeomie emphasized his readiness to act decisively against anyone he believes is attempting to undermine him. He maintained that no amount of pleading would dissuade him once the line is crossed. “People often plead with me after I confront them. This is your final warning. There won’t be another. If you try it again, there will be no room for leniency,” he stated. He continued by targeting a particular individual, saying: “Young man, I know you and your parents. They won’t even attempt to beg on your behalf. I’ll ensure you’re dealt with accordingly.” He then commented on the duality of public opinion: “People are always divided—some support me, others don’t. But I always have a majority behind me.” He warned those who have consistently criticized him: “If I respond aggressively, people say a man of God shouldn’t arrest critics or curse them. But if you provoke me, I will involve the police. I don’t care what anyone says. No spiritual intervention will work for you if you meddle in my affairs.” The pastor went on to prohibit coverage of his church by bloggers: “Stop reporting anything about me. Your coverage doesn’t add to my popularity—I’m already reaching the world. Whether good or bad, I don’t want your stories. Don’t cover our messages.” He alleged that certain individuals were embedded within the congregation to distort his teachings: “You’re inside the church, not to learn or receive blessings, but to misquote and spread falsehoods. You twist my words and mislead the public.” Concluding with a direct threat, he declared: “My kind of gospel? If you slap me, I’ll strike back first. I am not your conventional pastor. Young man, I will confront you.” In response to this outburst, Deji Adeyanju, through his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, expressed strong disappointment. He accused the clergyman of portraying Christianity in a negative light. “I’m truly disheartened by Papa David Ibiyeomie’s threats toward Nigerians who criticize him or his church. Why should your church be immune to scrutiny? Even Jesus Christ was criticized, yet He never threatened to imprison anyone,” Adeyanju remarked. He further stated: “Bragging about using the police to silence critics is unbecoming of a pastor. These actions make many question the authenticity of today’s church leaders. They are acting in ways that alienate believers and are turning people away from the Christian faith.”
General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, has urged citizens to stand in solidarity with the Nigerian Armed Forces in the ongoing mission to eliminate insurgents and violent elements threatening national peace. Speaking at the inaugural edition of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum held in Abuja on Tuesday, General Musa highlighted the critical role of public cooperation. He stressed that national security thrives on mutual trust, active civic engagement, and the propagation of responsible narratives. These, he noted, are essential for curbing the spread of insecurity across the nation. According to the Defence Chief, insurgency gains strength when citizens unknowingly or otherwise give room, support, or exposure to actors opposed to Nigeria’s unity and stability. In the same vein, Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services at the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), speaking on behalf of NSA Nuhu Ribadu, stated that the responsibility of national security does not rest solely on military or intelligence agencies. He emphasized that maintaining security is a shared duty that demands the cooperation of all citizens. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the courage and sacrifices of the Armed Forces. He also spotlighted the media’s influence in shaping public opinion, calling on journalists to highlight the positive strides of the military rather than excessively report on terrorist actions. The forum—jointly hosted by Voice of Nigeria and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation—served as a platform for dialogue among security agencies, media professionals, civil society actors, and the general public. As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, the event emphasized the importance of unity, public trust, and collective responsibility in forging a safer and more secure Nigeria. It is important to recall that for over ten years, the North-East region of Nigeria has endured devastating attacks from relentless terrorist groups. Thousands have lost their lives, many more have been wounded, kidnapped, or displaced. A recent tragic incident occurred in June when suicide bombers claimed the lives of at least 32 individuals, leaving scores injured.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully taken out more than 20 heavily armed terrorists and destroyed over 21 motorcycles during a strategic air interdiction mission in Zamfara State. In an official statement released by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, the operation took place in a location south of Mai-Galma in the Maru Local Government Area. The primary goal of the mission was to disrupt a planned large-scale assault by armed bandits targeting unprotected rural communities. Based on actionable intelligence, NAF command learned that a large number of terrorists were regrouping in preparation for an imminent attack on unsuspecting villages. The statement further noted that the armed group had already committed heinous acts, including the killing of farmers and kidnapping of civilians, among them women and children. In response, NAF deployed combat aircraft under Operation FANSAN YAMMA to carry out armed reconnaissance and to potentially rescue abducted civilians. During the aerial mission, NAF surveillance identified over 30 motorcycles transporting terrorists into the forest. When they spotted the aircraft, the terrorists opened fire. This prompted a precise counterattack, which led to the destruction of multiple motorcycles and the elimination of a significant number of the assailants. NAF confirmed that ground troops were immediately dispatched to capitalize on the airstrike’s impact. These troops validated the destruction of enemy vehicles and confirmed that more than 20 terrorists had been neutralized in the process. Unfortunately, the operation also resulted in casualties among local security support. Two vigilante members were killed, and two others were injured during the exchange of gunfire.
The Osun State Amotekun Corps has firmly denied allegations that its personnel arrested traditional chiefs in Itapa, Atakumosa East Local Government Area. In a statement released on Monday, signed by Corps Commander Isaac Omoyele and Public Relations Officer Yusuf Idowu Abass, the security outfit described the claims as false and politically motivated. The disputed report alleged that five prominent chiefs—Chief Adeyeri Olalekan, Chief Adeyeri Ladele, Chief Adeyeri Adeyeye, Chief Ariyo Dare, and Chief Ogunsola Oladele—were detained by Amotekun operatives over accusations of unlawfully organizing local security for their community. It further claimed that these individuals were initially granted bail but were subsequently rearrested by Field Commander Adekunle Omoyele. Additionally, the report suggested that Amotekun was shielding cult members affiliated with the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including individuals named Ajayi Ibukun, Femi Osobu, and Amure Sunday, who are reportedly on the Osun State Police Command’s Anti-Cultist Unit In response, the Amotekun Corps categorically denied any involvement in the arrest or detention of community chiefs in Itapa or any other part of Atakumosa East. The statement emphasized that the allegations are baseless and intended to undermine the Corps’ integrity, neutrality, and professionalism. The Corps also cautioned against the politicization of security matters, highlighting the potential for such misinformation to incite distrust and unnecessary panic within the community. They urged the public to disregard the misleading publication and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents, regardless of political affiliation, religious background, or social status.

