Muhammadu has pleaded innocence but admitted he was aware that one of his sons, Bala Muhammadu, was involved in kidnapping. He said he believed his son had turned a new leaf after serving a five-year prison term for the same offence.

“I know that Bala was into kidnapping. He was arrested and sent to prison. After he came back, I took him to the hospital, where he spent one month for treatment,” Muhammadu told newsmen.

“I thought that he had turned a new leaf because he is now into farming and cattle rearing. I didn’t know that he is still into kidnapping. I don’t know if any of my other sons are into kidnapping. I am not into kidnapping and I will not encourage it.”

The police said the wanted Bala and two of his brothers escaped through the bush after being tipped off that security operatives were approaching their family compound.

Bag found in kitchen

A police source told journalists that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, led by SP Bamidele Shirtu, linked a series of kidnappings around Ijebu Ode, Imodi, Irewon, Iwode, Okun Owa and other communities to Bala, who had only recently been released from prison.

“After painstaking and intelligence investigation, one of the bags which was used in the payment of the ransom for one of the victims was recovered in the father’s kitchen,” the source said.

“One of the children who saw us coming into the community already hinted Bala and his other brothers and they had escaped through the bush. It is not only Bala who is into the business. There is also Ndaji and one other and we are on their trail. There was an upsurge in kidnapping in the area after Bala was released from prison. He spent five years in prison for kidnapping.”

‘I don’t know anything about the bag’

The Seriki Fulani, who said he has lived in Yorubaland for more than 30 years and has four wives and 30 children, insisted he had no hand in his son’s criminal activities.

“I don’t know anything about the bag that was found in my house. I live in the same compound with my children and wives. I have never kidnapped anybody in my life,” he said.

He explained his decision to take his son to hospital after his release: “I didn’t want him to die when he came back from prison. He was looking very sick and pale. I wanted the best for him and other children. I took him to the hospital for treatment. I also encouraged him to stay away from crime.”

Elder brother arrested

Bello Muhammadu, the eldest child of the Seriki Fulani, was also arrested. He told reporters he was on his farm when his father called him about the police operation.

“I am not into kidnapping. I am a herder. I only know that my younger brother, Bala, was arrested and taken to prison some years back. I don’t know anything about what he and any of my brothers are doing,” Bello said.

“If my father had known that Bala had returned to the crime, he would have killed him himself. He does not encourage anything like that.”

Police commend IGP’s support

The Ogun State Police Command’s image maker, Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the successful operation was due to support from the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu.

“The Ogun State Police Command commends IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu for his continued support towards tactical policing, intelligence-led operations, and the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes,” Babaseyi said.

“The command equally appreciates the strategic leadership and operational direction of the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, which have continued to yield remarkable security successes within Ogun State.”

He described the operation by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit as a demonstration of “bravery, professionalism and unwavering dedication”, adding that sustained efforts are being intensified to dismantle criminal syndicates in the state.

The command urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.

The late matriarch, who passed away in March 2026 at the age of 94, was honoured through a two-day funeral programme comprising a Wake-Keep Service at Henry Townsend Hall, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Ake; a funeral and thanksgiving service themed “Celebrating a Life Well Lived” at Christ Anglican Church, Iporo-Ake; and a grand reception at Legacy Hall, Abeokuta Sports Club, GRA, Ibara.

Throughout the ceremonies, Tunde Lemo and his wife, who is one of the daughters of the deceased, played central roles in coordinating the events and receiving guests who came from within and outside Nigeria to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Deaconess.

The events attracted a broad spectrum of distinguished personalities, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, political figures, financial experts, business leaders, philanthropists and community stakeholders.

Among notable dignitaries in attendance were Otunba Segun Sowunmi, Senator Gbenga Obadara, Otunba Tunji Akinlade and Oba-Edu Ifayomi, alongside several family members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to honour the deceased’s memory.

Guests described Deaconess Coker as a woman of faith, integrity, compassion and strong family values whose impact transcended generations.

The reception ceremony featured cultural displays, tributes and musical performances led by renowned entertainer Taiwo Akinwale Oguntade, popularly known as Big Tee, who entertained guests throughout the celebration.

Photographs and video recordings from the ceremonies reflected the deep affection shared between the late Deaconess and her family, particularly her daughter, Pastor Mrs. Oluyemi Lemo and son-in-law, Tunde Lemo, whose visible commitment to ensuring a befitting farewell drew commendations from attendees.

Many guests praised the organisation of the funeral activities, describing the ceremonies as dignified, memorable and reflective of a life devoted to faith, family and service to humanity.

For the Lemo and Coker families, the burial marked the conclusion of an emotional journey of farewell to a beloved mother, grandmother and matriarch whose legacy of love, sacrifice and godly living will continue to inspire generations.

Though gone, family members said her memories, values and enduring influence would remain deeply cherished by all who knew her.

Distinguished Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, CFR,
Former Deputy President of the 9th Senate,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Dear Distinguished Senator,

On behalf of many appreciative sons and daughters of Ndokwa Nation, I write with profound gratitude and deep respect to acknowledge your exceptional leadership, courage, and enduring commitment to the development of our people, particularly your singular role in attracting the establishment of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Kwale, Delta State.

As you take your leave from the All Progressives Congress (APC), it is only fitting that history records your remarkable contributions to the Ndokwa people and Delta State at large. Leadership is ultimately measured not merely by political titles held, but by lives touched, opportunities created, and legacies secured for generations yet unborn. In this regard, your name has been firmly etched in the developmental history of Ndokwa land.

For decades, Ndokwa Nation — despite being the second largest ethnic nationality in Delta State and host to enormous oil and gas resources that have substantially contributed to the economic sustenance of Nigeria — remained painfully marginalized in the distribution of critical government institutions and infrastructure. Successive administrations, both state and federal, overlooked the legitimate aspirations of our people for a federal or state-owned tertiary institution within our homeland.

The painful memories remain fresh. The state polytechnic originally intended for Ndokwa people was ultimately redirected to Ozoro, thereby denying our people a deserved educational and economic opportunity. Equally disheartening was the unfortunate abandonment of the Aboh Polytechnic project almost immediately after its conception, leaving yet another developmental vacuum in Ndokwa Nation.

Against this backdrop of historical neglect and institutional deprivation, your intervention stands tall as a watershed moment. Through your influence, political will, and strategic leadership, the Federal University of Health Sciences, Kwale became a reality — the first federal tertiary institution of its kind in Ndokwa land. This monumental achievement has restored hope to our people and rekindled faith in purposeful representation.
Indeed, this institution represents far more than buildings and academic structures. It symbolizes recognition, inclusion, empowerment, and long-awaited justice for a people who have endured years of exclusion despite their immeasurable contributions to the Nigerian federation.

Your effort has not only opened educational opportunities for our youths but has also laid the foundation for economic growth, healthcare advancement, research development, employment generation, and broader socio-economic transformation across Ndokwa Nation and Delta State.

Distinguished Senator, history will remember you kindly for choosing to stand where many before you hesitated. While political seasons may change and affiliations may evolve, genuine service to humanity remains timeless. Your courage to champion the cause of Ndokwa people when it mattered most will continue to resonate across generations.

As you chart a new political course and continue your journey in public service, may you find strength, wisdom, and greater opportunities to serve humanity and advance the cause of equity, justice, and development.

On behalf of grateful stakeholders, elders, youths, and progressive minds across Ndokwa Nation, I say thank you for giving our people a sense of belonging and for writing your name in gold in the annals of our history.

May posterity continue to honour your sacrifices and contributions.

Please accept the assurances of my highest regards.

*Dr. Jude Dike, Ph.D.
Ndokwa Political Stakeholder and Strategist.

The group, made up of several civil society and community based groups spread across the South West said the opposition groups in Ekiti are less interested in campaign but waiting to raise dusts after the June 20 poll.

“We have covered Ekiti substantially and the rural and urban campaign continues. It was only on one occassion that the SWICAM tour ran into a scanty campaign team of one of the conteding political parties.

“Opposition parties in Ekiti are disjointed, poorly coordinated, lacking structures and the worst is that they lack compelling socio-political and economic alternative programmes. Many of them do not even have manifestoes leaving the electorate confused about their agenda.”

The group’s leader after its campaign across Ekiti South Senatorial District which began at Ayedun-Ekiti on Tuesday.

The Chairman Ajoni Local Development Authority, LCDA, Prince Micheal Oluwadare Ogungbemi who met the team at Ayedun praised the team for leading a non-governmental campaign for good governance in Ekiti State.

SWICAM had produced some 50,000 campaign pamphlets rendered in English and Yoruba distributed to thousands of Ekiti voters explaining to them why Oyebanji is the best candidate for the job.

The team later moved to Omuo, Ode, Isinbode, Agbado, Aisegba, Iluomoba and Ijan. Other towns visited were Ise, Emure, Orun and Ikere.

SWICAM said the current Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji enjoys overwhelming support from across Ekiti State noting that his victory on June 20 is as clear as spring.

“The opposition should prepare to accept defeat. Rports from the field and based on our research and constructuve engagement with the people across board indicated that Oyebanji will win with a landslide,” the SWICAM Secretary in Ekiti State, Ayo Omojola said in the statement issued on Thursday after the completion of the campaign of the Senatorial tour.

The group said the strenght of the Governor is derived from his inclusive leader driven by genuine committment to allaying the fears of Ekiti people and addressing the aspirations of the populace.

SWICAM campaign to other towns and villages continues on Friday

Bishop Obátẹ́yẹ in a goodwill message, described the celebration as a reminder of the enduring values of sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and faith exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

According to the cleric, Eid El Kabir represents more than a religious observance, stressing that it also serves as a call for generosity, solidarity, and support for the less privileged in society.

Bishop Obátẹ́yẹ noted that the moral values associated with the festival, humility before God, care for widows and orphans, and the pursuit of righteousness, are universal principles shared across religious divides and essential for building a peaceful and just society.

He said “Eid El Kabir is more than a ritual of sacrifice. It is a call to compassion, generosity, and solidarity with those in need. The sharing of goodies with family, neighbors, and the less privileged embodies the spirit of community that holds societies together.

“Nigeria requires those virtues now more than ever, I am urging Nigerians to embrace dialogue, unity, and collective responsibility rather than division and hatred.

“I pray for Allah’s blessings upon Muslims,may their sacrifices and prayers be accepted. I wish them peace, prosperity, good health, joy, and barakah in their homes.”

Speaking on the nation’s political future, Bishop Obátẹ́yẹ called on Nigerians to use the Eid season as an opportunity to renew their commitment to national unity and peaceful coexistence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He emphasised that faith should inspire service, integrity, and progress, adding that religious diversity, when approached with mutual respect and love, remains a strength for national development.

The bishop also reaffirmed the commitment of LEIC and the PLD Institute to promoting transformational leadership rooted in empathy, integrity, quality service, and social responsibility.

In a letter to the Chairman of Orogun Ward 2, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State, Senator Omo-Agege stated that after reviewing recent developments within the APC in Delta State and consulting with his associates and supporters, it is clear that his political objectives and those of his constituents are better served outside the party.

“I will not remain a sitting duck in a party where I cannot advance the interests of Delta Central, Delta State and Nigeria, he said.

“I thank the APC for the opportunity to serve as Deputy President of the 9th Senate. I wish the party well and have requested that my name be removed from all membership records, registers, and communication lists,” he said.

Senator Omo-Agege affirmed that his focus remains on delivering development and effective representation for Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria. He added that he will seek to pursue these goals outside the APC.

Speaking in Ibadan on Wednesday, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs Funmi Adetuyibi, said reports suggesting that UCH was battling a power crisis were false and misleading.

Her clarification followed the circulation of a viral video alleging that diesel meant for critical units in the hospital was being diverted at a time of power failure.

While confirming that a diesel theft incident occurred, Adetuyibi stressed that the situation did not translate into a breakdown in electricity supply or hospital services.

According to her, the hospital continues to receive power from IBEDC, while alternative sources, including generators, are available to support operations whenever needed.

She said the current situation reflects the determination of the hospital management to look inward, strengthen internal oversight and ensure that essential services are protected from disruption.

“There is no power outage in the hospital; everything is fine and calm,” she said.

She added that with electricity supply available and backup arrangements in place, patients and staff have continued to enjoy a stable environment for healthcare delivery.

The UCH spokesperson also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading rumours capable of creating unnecessary panic, maintaining that services in the hospital remain fully functional.

The development underscores the hospital management’s commitment to sustaining stable power and uninterrupted care through internal efforts aimed at safeguarding critical operations.

The organisations, in a statement signed by its Convener, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, warned that the worsening insecurity has left many families living in fear and uncertainty.

The coalition expressed concern that many victims remain in captivity without rescue, justice or accountability, despite growing cases of abductions in several parts of the country, pointing out that the continued attacks on schools, communities and travellers reflect a deepening national security crisis disproportionately affecting women and children.

“Across the country, families continue to live in fear and uncertainty while countless women and girls remain missing, kidnapped or trapped in the hands of armed groups, bandits and criminal networks’, the statement said.

The coalition cited recent reports of attacks in Borno State and Oyo State where dozens of children were reportedly abducted during attacks on schools, and equally raised concerns over incidents in parts of South-West Nigeria where women travelling, farming or residing in rural communities were allegedly kidnapped and held for ransom by armed groups.

“Particularly disturbing are reports from communities in the South-West where women travelling, farming or living in rural communities have allegedly been kidnapped and held for ransom amid growing insecurity’, the statement added.

The group specifically referenced reports from Ekiti State indicating that several women, including a pregnant woman and a nursing mother, were abducted by gunmen earlier in the year.

The coalition in same vein, highlighted recent incidents in Kwara State where women and children were abducted during attacks on communities by suspected bandits and armed groups, stressing that reports indicated that over 170 residents, mostly women and children, were kidnapped from communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, while other attacks across the state targeted families, rural residents and traditional institutions.

t Womanifesto, lamented that the repeated incidents reveal systemic failures in security response and protection mechanisms across the country.

‘These incidents are not isolated. They reflect a dangerous national crisis where women and girls increasingly bear the devastating consequences of insecurity, weak law enforcement and institutional

the coalition expressed concern over what it described as delayed rescue efforts for victims still being held captive, warning that prolonged captivity exposes women and girls to severe risks including sexual violence, physical abuse, trauma and exploitation.

“Every day spent in captivity exposes women and girls to grave dangers, including sexual violence, physical abuse, trauma and exploitation. It is unacceptable that families are repeatedly left to negotiate ransoms, search forests and plead publicly for help while the state fails to guarantee their safety and freedom’, the statement said.

Womanifesto warned against what it described as the gradual normalisation of abductions across the country, noting that communities are increasingly adjusting to fear rather than receiving protection from authorities.

“Parents are withdrawing children from schools. Women are increasingly unsafe in public spaces, farms,highways and even within their own communities,” the coalition lamented.

the group called on the Nigerian Government and security agencies to intensify rescue operations for kidnapped women, girls and children still in captivity, while demanding transparent investigations into recent abductions and prosecution of perpetrators and sponsors.

The body in the statement urged authorities to strengthen security around schools, highways and rural communities where women and children remain highly vulnerable, and demanded accountability for security lapses and called for psychosocial support, medical care and reintegration assistance for survivors of abduction and violence.

Womanifesto equally advocated gender-responsive security strategies that recognise the specific risks faced by women and girls during conflict and insecurity.

“Nigeria cannot continue to lose women and children to violence while authorities offer repeated assurances without sustainable action. Every kidnapped woman or child represents a family living in anguish and a nation failing in its responsibility to protect its citizens.”

His nomination was confirmed on Tuesday during the party’s presidential primary held in Abuja, where delegates and party executives gave Sowore an unanimous endorsement.

Following the voting process, party officials formally presented him with the AAC flag, symbolising his emergence as the party’s standard bearer for the upcoming election.

In his acceptance speech, Sowore said the AAC was founded on the vision of building a reformed and more accountable Nigeria. He also expressed appreciation to party members nationwide for their support and commitment to the party’s ideology.

He reaffirmed the party’s focus on issues such as corruption, insecurity, economic hardship, and what he described as poor governance affecting citizens across the country as preparations intensify for the 2027 polls.

Sowore is expected to face a crowded field in the 2027 presidential election, including incumbent President Bola Tinubu, who has secured the presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as well as other candidates from major and minor political parties across the country.

Pantami secured the ticket through a voice affirmation during the party’s primary election held in Gombe, where he emerged as the sole aspirant.

He was subsequently declared winner by Hon. Gregory Yenlong, Chairman of the PDP Electoral Panel, who supervised the exercise.

Speaking shortly after his emergence, Pantami said his decision to contest was driven by a desire to serve the people of Gombe State.

He pledged that if elected governor in 2027, he would run an administration anchored on fairness and justice.

Pantami is now set to face Jamilu Gwamna, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in what is expected to be a closely watched contest.

Prior to his emergence in the PDP, Pantami had opposed the process that produced Gwamna as the APC consensus candidate.

He had initially opted for primaries but withdrew on the eve of the exercise, citing concerns over lack of transparency in the process.