Oyo school abduction: Suspects plead not guilty to amended charges

The Department of State Services, DSS, on Thursday re-arraigned five suspected members of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, also known as Ansaru, over the alleged abduction of about 46 pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The defendants, Mahmud Muhammad, also known as Abu Bara’a/Abbas Mukhtar; Abubakar Abbas, aka Isah Adam/Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri; Abdulrazak Umar, aka Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid; Yunusa Musa, aka Abu Yunusa Bin Musa; and Shamsu Adamu Sani, aka Abu Itisar, were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a seven-count amended charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/438/2026.

The Federal Government, through the DSS, accused the defendants of several terrorism-related offences, including conspiracy to kidnap about 46 people, aiding the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, concealing information about an imminent terrorist attack and causing the deaths of two victims.

The two victims named in the charge were Michael Oyedokun and Deacon John Olaleye.

In the first count, the prosecution alleged that Muhammad and Abbas ordered the other three defendants, whom it described as their “foot soldiers” in Ansaru, to kidnap and kill innocent Nigerians in different parts of the country if they were arrested by the Nigerian government.

According to the prosecution, the alleged directive was intended to compel the government to meet the group’s demands.

The charge further alleged that the order resulted in the abduction of about 46 pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In another count, the Federal Government accused the defendants of committing an act of terrorism by allegedly causing the death of Deacon John Olaleye through decapitation.

The prosecution said the alleged offence was contrary to Section 2(3)(g) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and punishable under Section 24(2) of the same law.

The defendants were also accused of withholding information concerning an imminent terrorist act and the planned abduction of the victims from law enforcement and security agencies.

In count five, the Federal Government alleged that the defendants conspired with three other suspects — Muhammed Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab — as well as others still at large, to abduct about 46 people, including schoolchildren and teachers, in Oriire.

Umar, Musa and Sani were separately accused of aiding the alleged abduction, while Muhammad and Abbas were accused in count seven of knowingly concealing information about a planned terrorist attack.

The prosecution alleged that the concealed information was connected to the May 15, 2026 abduction and the deaths of Oyedokun and Olaleye.

The charges were brought under various provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

All five defendants pleaded not guilty to the seven counts after the charges were read to them by the registrar of the court.

Following their pleas, the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, who led the DSS legal team, applied for the immediate commencement of the trial in accordance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

Oyedepo also urged the court to protect the identities of the prosecution witnesses by allowing them to testify while wearing masks.

He said the request was necessary to ensure the safety and protection of the witnesses during the proceedings.

Counsel to the defendants, Bala Dakum, did not oppose the prosecution’s application.

Justice Salim Ibrahim subsequently granted the request, paving the way for the prosecution to proceed with the trial under the approved protective measures.

The court thereafter commenced arrangements for the full-scale trial of the five defendants.

The case was adjourned until Friday, September 18, for continuation of hearing.

Awujale: Ruling House Sues Ogun, Kingmakers Over Succession Process

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Ijebu-Ode has taken the Ogun State Government, Awujale kingmakers and other officials to court over the stalled process for selecting a successor to the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.

The suit, filed at the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode, is seeking orders compelling the relevant authorities to resume and conclude the selection of the next monarch.

The case, dated August 21, 2026, was instituted by the Chairman of the ruling house, Abdulateef Owoyemi; Deputy Chairman, Adedokun Ajidagba; and Vice Chairman, Professor Fassy Yusuf.

Those named as defendants include Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), the Ogun State Executive Council, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Ganiyu Hamzat, the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, and the council’s chairman, Dare Alebiosu.

Also joined in the suit are members of the Awujale Afobaje/Kingmakers Council, including Sonny Kuku, Chief Rasheed Adesanya, Chief Oluwaranti Osifeso, Chief Jimi Lawal, Chief Abimbola Okenla, Chief Kunle Ogunade, Chief Agboola Alausa, Chief Adebisi Adaran and Chief Ayotunde Odulaja.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to determine whether the state government had the authority to order or facilitate the alleged entry into and closure of the Awujale Palace on January 20, 2026, which they said prevented the kingmakers from meeting to complete the selection process.

They are also asking the court to determine whether the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law 2021 gives the state government the power to suspend the nomination or selection of an Awujale.

The ruling house further wants the court to determine whether it fulfilled its statutory obligation after convening its meeting and completing its internal nomination process within the timeframe stipulated by the law.

The plaintiffs also want the court to determine whether the kingmakers became legally bound to choose a candidate from the list submitted by the ruling house and forward the selected name to the Ogun State Executive Council.

Another issue before the court is whether the succession process had officially commenced following notices issued by Ijebu-Ode Local Government on December 2 and 4, 2025, and January 6, 2026.

The Awujale stool became vacant after the death of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona on July 13, 2025, at the age of 91, following a historic 65-year reign.

According to the plaintiffs, Ijebu-Ode Local Government notified the Fusengbuwa Ruling House on December 2, 2025, that it was its turn to nominate a candidate in line with the rotational arrangement under the state’s chieftaincy law.

The ruling house subsequently began its nomination exercise and held a meeting on January 12, 2026, which it said was within the 14-day period stipulated by Section 16(1)(b) of the law.

The plaintiffs said 95 princes and princesses were nominated, with the complete list submitted to the nine-member Awujale Afobaje Kingmakers Council on January 19, 2026, for the next phase of the process.

They alleged that fewer than 24 hours after the list was submitted, police officers entered the Awujale Palace after midnight on January 20 and prevented the kingmakers from meeting to select a candidate from the nominees.

The local government later cited security concerns and allegations of bribery and financial inducement as reasons for the suspension of the process by the state government.

The ruling house rejected the allegations, maintaining that no evidence or formal petition was presented to substantiate the claims. It further alleged that investigations by the police and the Department of State Services found no evidence of wrongdoing.

In the suit, the plaintiffs are seeking a declaration that their nomination exercise was validly concluded and that the kingmakers are required under Sections 16(1)(e) and (f) of the law to select a candidate from the submitted list and forward the name to the State Executive Council.

They also argued that the Executive Council has a statutory duty under Section 22 of the law to act on the candidate presented by the kingmakers.

Among the reliefs being sought is an order directing the kingmakers to reconvene within seven days of judgment and conclude the selection process.

The plaintiffs are also seeking an injunction preventing the state government and security agencies from further interfering with the process.

They are asking the court to determine whether, having completed its internal nomination exercise within the period prescribed by Section 16 of the Obas and Chiefs Law, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House had fully discharged its statutory responsibility and could not be compelled to restart the process.

The plaintiffs also want the court to determine whether the kingmakers, after receiving the ruling house’s nomination list on January 19, became obligated under Section 16(1)(e) and (f) to select a candidate and forward the name to the Commissioner responsible for chieftaincy affairs.

They further want the court to determine whether Section 22 of the law places an obligation on the State Executive Council to act once a candidate has been selected and presented to it.

Another question before the court is whether the governor, relevant commissioners, local government officials or any other defendants had the legal authority to order or facilitate the forcible entry into and locking of the Awujale Palace by police officers on January 20.

Consequently, the plaintiffs are seeking a declaration that their January 12 nomination exercise, conducted pursuant to the notices issued in December 2025 and January 2026, constituted a full discharge of their statutory responsibility.

They are also asking the court to declare that the kingmakers, having received the nomination list on January 19, are legally required to select a candidate from it and forward the name to the appropriate state authority.

The plaintiffs further want the court to declare the closure of the Awujale Palace and the resulting suspension of the selection exercise unlawful, arguing that it was beyond the powers provided under the Ogun State Obas and Chiefs Law 2021 and violated their right to fair hearing.

Counsel to the claimants, led by Olusegun Otayemi, submitted in the originating summons that the state’s chieftaincy legislation establishes a clear sequence involving nomination, selection and government approval, which must be followed once the process has commenced.

FG Arraigns Two Ansaru Commanders, Three Others Over Oriire School Terror Attack

The Federal Government has arraigned five suspects, including two alleged Ansaru terrorist commanders, over their alleged roles in the abduction and beheading of two teachers kidnapped during the attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The suspects, identified as Abubakar Abba Mahmuda Abu Bara’a, Abubakar Abbas, also known as Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri, and three others described by the Department of State Services (DSS) as foot soldiers, were brought before Justice Salim Ibrahim of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The DSS said the two alleged commanders were arrested in August 2025, while the remaining three defendants were directly linked to the Oriire school attack. Justice Ibrahim ordered that all five suspects be remanded in DSS custody and fixed September 24 for the commencement of their trial.

The arraignment comes days after the same court sentenced three other suspects to life imprisonment for their roles in the Oriire school abduction. The convicts, Abdulrazak Umar, Yunusa Musa and Shamsu Adamu Sani, pleaded guilty to charges including terrorism, kidnapping, concealment of information, incitement and illegal mining.

Although the three convicts admitted concealing information about the attack and belonging to Darul Salam, an affiliate of the banned Ansaru group, they denied taking part in the actual school attack. Justice Ibrahim fixed September 16 and 17 for the continuation of their trial on the remaining counts, while the DSS has indicated it will appeal the life sentences, arguing that the offences warrant the death penalty.

Flood Alert: 𝐈jebu North Local Government Assures Residents Of Swift Response

The Ijebu North Local Government has assured residents of a swift response following flash flooding that affected several communities in the Ijebu Igbo axis after heavy rainfall on Monday morning.

The affected areas include Lepete, Ojowo Road, Egbe-Subair, Odobotu, Igbairẹ and other adjoining communities, where floodwaters disrupted movement and impacted residents and businesses.

In a statement issued by the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Bolaji Odusanya, the local government sympathised with victims of the flooding and said it had activated emergency response measures in collaboration with relevant agencies, community leaders and other stakeholders.

According to the chairman, liaison has been established with ward councillors, community leaders and other critical stakeholders to assess the extent of the damage and coordinate interventions in the affected communities.

He noted that the scale of the flash flooding was unprecedented in recent years in the affected areas, assuring residents that the council remains committed to protecting lives and property.

The local government also issued safety advisories, urging residents to avoid flooded roads, drainage channels and fast-flowing bridges, while those living in flood-prone areas were advised to relocate temporarily where necessary.

Residents were further encouraged to keep children away from floodwaters, use only safe drinking water by boiling or treating it where necessary, and maintain proper hygiene to prevent outbreaks of cholera and other waterborne diseases.

The council also appealed to residents to refrain from dumping refuse in drainage channels, warning that blocked waterways significantly worsen flooding during heavy rainfall.

Bolaji Odusanya assured the public that the local government would continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates as response efforts continue.

Tinubu Commends Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

Tinubu Commends Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, praising security agencies for ending their 56-day ordeal.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force for carrying out a successful operation that secured the victims’ freedom without casualties.

Tinubu also applauded the security operatives for arresting eight suspected kidnappers while neutralising several others during the rescue mission.

Describing the development as a source of relief for the affected families and the nation, the President expressed sympathy for the trauma endured by the pupils, teachers, and their loved ones since the abduction on May 15.

He assured that justice would be pursued for all the victims, including the family of Michael Oyedokun, the mathematics teacher who was killed while in captivity.

The President further commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation and urged authorities to strengthen security measures around schools across the state.

Tinubu also directed relevant emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide medical treatment, counselling, and other necessary support for the rescued pupils and teachers.

The victims were abducted on May 15 after armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Their rescue on Friday brought an end to nearly two months in captivity.

Ogun Govt Attributes Ijebu-Ode Gas Emissions to Underground Fault Lines

The Ogun State Government has ruled out traditional beliefs surrounding the recurring gas emissions recorded in parts of Ijebu-Ode, describing the incidents as natural geological occurrences caused by underground fault lines.

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, made this known during a town hall meeting held in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday.

The clarification follows three separate incidents this year in which students and teachers from some schools in the area were hospitalised after exposure to a suspected chemical odour.

According to Oresanya, investigations revealed that methane and hydrogen sulphide gases were responsible for the emissions, explaining that the gases escaped through fractures beneath the earth’s surface along established fault lines.

He stressed that the phenomenon had no connection with myths or supernatural beliefs, but was a natural geological process.

Oresanya disclosed that the fault line extends from Mojoda through Ijebu-Ode and into Osun State, noting that the affected schools are located along the identified geological corridor.

He further explained that the area was once heavily forested and sparsely populated before missionary activities led to the establishment of schools on lands that had previously been abandoned.

The commissioner identified the Ifewara-Zungeru Trans-Atlantic fault line as a major contributor to the gas emissions, adding that experts are still investigating whether the gases are thermogenic or methanogenic in origin.

He also revealed that the state government is exploring the possibility of natural gas deposits beneath the affected communities.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, appealed to residents to remain calm and adhere to safety precautions whenever gas emissions occur.

She advised residents to cover their noses with a wet handkerchief instead of wearing face masks, warning that masks may not be safe in such situations, and urged the public to take immediate protective measures whenever the emissions are noticed.

Starmer Resigns as UK Prime Minister After Less Than Two Years in Office

British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has announced his resignation, bringing an unexpected end to a premiership that began following Labour’s decisive general election victory in July 2024.

Starmer made the announcement on Monday in a statement delivered outside 10 Downing Street, where he reflected on his tenure and defended the key decisions taken by his administration.

“Every decision I have made has been about putting the country I love first,” Starmer said as he confirmed he would step down as both Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party.

His resignation marks a significant turning point in British politics, coming less than two years after he led Labour back into government, ending more than a decade of Conservative rule. The development is expected to trigger a leadership race within the governing party amid growing political uncertainty.

Addressing supporters gathered outside Downing Street, Starmer described his arrival at No. 10 in 2024 as “the proudest moment” of his life, stating that his motivation for entering politics had always been to improve the lives of millions of people across the United Kingdom.

Reflecting on his legacy, the outgoing Prime Minister highlighted what he described as major achievements during his leadership, including rebuilding the Labour Party after years of internal divisions and restoring public confidence in its economic and national security agenda.

Starmer said he inherited a party that was “politically, financially and morally bankrupt” and faced widespread predictions that it would struggle to return to power. He credited his leadership with transforming Labour into a credible governing party, citing reforms aimed at tackling anti-Semitism and strengthening public trust.

Attention has now shifted to the question of Starmer’s successor, with Andy Burnham emerging as the leading contender following his recent victory in the Makerfield by-election. Burnham is expected to be sworn in as a Member of Parliament in the coming days.

Political analysts and Labour insiders believe Burnham could secure the party leadership without a contested election if no other candidate emerges, raising the possibility of a smooth transition. Should that happen, Labour could have a new party leader and Prime Minister in place by September, ahead of the party’s annual conference.

Rotary Club of Ijebu Igbo Metropolitan to Offer Free Medical Services at Family Health Days

The Rotary Club of Ijebu Igbo Metropolitan, under Rotary International District 9112, has announced a three-day free medical outreach as part of the 2026 Rotary Family Health Days.

The health programme is scheduled to hold from June 25 to June 27, 2026, providing residents with access to a wide range of essential healthcare services at no cost.

According to the organisers, the annual initiative is being implemented by the Rotary Action Group for Family Health and AIDS Prevention (RFHA), with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in collaboration with Rotary Clubs and Districts across Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Health, private sector partners, and non-governmental organisations.

The programme aims to improve public health through preventive care, early diagnosis, treatment, and health education.

Services to be offered during the outreach include polio immunisation, malaria screening and treatment, HIV testing and counselling, hepatitis B and C screening, diabetes and hypertension screening, tuberculosis screening, vitamin A administration, deworming of children, distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, cervical, breast and prostate cancer screening, family planning counselling, eye tests, dental care, COVID-19 awareness and sensitisation, HPV vaccination, and the distribution of sanitary pads to girls.

The Rotary Club has encouraged members of the public to take advantage of the free health services by visiting the designated outreach centres during the three-day event.

Ijebu Igbo Economic Sustainability Group Unveils Plans for Summit, Business Expo, Youth Awards

The Ijebu Igbo Economic Sustainability Group (IJESG) has announced plans for a series of initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, entrepreneurship, and youth development within Ijebu Igbo and its surrounding communities.

Speaking on the upcoming programmes, the group’s Public Relations Officer, Senbadejo Olawale, said preparations are in top gear for the forthcoming Economic Sustainability Summit, which is expected to bring together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to discuss practical solutions for sustainable economic development. According to him, the summit will provide a platform for dialogue on investment opportunities, business growth, and community-driven development.

He also disclosed that the group is planning the Ijebu Igbo Business Expo Online in collaboration with Ijebu Igbo Development (IID) UK and the Ijebu Igbo Community Development (IICD) platform. The initiative is designed to showcase businesses operating within Ijebu Igbo, promote local entrepreneurs, connect them with broader markets, and stimulate economic activities across the community.

Olawale explained that this will give business owners greater visibility while encouraging networking opportunities among investors, entrepreneurs, and consumers. He noted that the organisers are optimistic the programme will contribute significantly to strengthening the local economy and creating new opportunities for businesses to thrive.

In addition, preparations are underway for the 4th edition of the Ijebu North Youth Award (INYA), an annual event dedicated to recognising and celebrating outstanding young individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society. As Chairman of the Organising Committee, Olawale said the award ceremony will continue to inspire excellence, encourage leadership, and promote positive values among youths in Ijebu North.

He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to initiatives that foster community development, youth empowerment, and economic sustainability, expressing confidence that the various programmes will further position Ijebu Igbo as a hub for innovation, enterprise, and inclusive growth.

Prince Michael Akanbi Ademola Adegoke Celebrates 70th Birthday in Grand Style

Prince Michael Akanbi Ademola Adegoke of Bronx, New York, was recently celebrated by his children, family members, and friends as he marked his 70th birthday in a joyous gathering filled with love, appreciation, and heartfelt tributes.

The milestone celebration brought together loved ones who honoured the septuagenarian for his remarkable life, unwavering commitment to family values, and positive impact on those around him. Guests described him as a man of integrity, wisdom, and generosity whose life has inspired many across generations.

Family members expressed gratitude for his guidance, sacrifices, and enduring support over the years, praying for continued good health, long life, and greater accomplishments. Friends also paid glowing tributes, highlighting his humility, kindness, and the strong relationships he has built within his community.

The celebration was marked by moments of thanksgiving, laughter, and warm fellowship as attendees wished Prince Michael Akanbi Ademola Adegoke many more years of happiness, peace, and fulfilment.