Commons

Insecurity: Military, communities in fresh onslaught against bandits

A new synergy seems to be evolving in the fight against banditry following the recent spike in security challenge in parts of the country.

Hunters, traditionalists, community leaders and other stakeholders are willingly complementing ongoing efforts of the military and other security agencies to check kidnapping, according to reports from several states.

One of the success stories of the ongoing assault on kidnapper dens is the rescue, last night, of Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, younger sister of the immediate past Power Minister Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul.

They were rescued by the police 72 hours after they were abducted.

Two of the kidnappers were killed during the rescue operation.

Scores of Ifa worshippers also gathered in Abeokuta on Friday to offer sacrifices for the support of the gods in the fight against banditry.

In addition, some Egba women led by the Olori of Orile-Ilawo Kingdom, Dr. Omolara Fashola-MacGregor, offered supplications to the gods at several points in Abeokuta, including Olumo Rock, for  divine mercy and protection in the land.

Other concerned Nigerians including teachers have embarked on protests over the Oriire LGA abduction.

Security agencies say they are intensifying efforts to rescue the victims.

Local hunters, especially in South West rural communities, have assumed responsibility for conducting patrols and mounting surveillance in their localities with a view to securing lives and property in the aftermath of the May 15 attack on Community Grammar School, Esiele and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by gun-wielding bandits.

Thirty nine pupils and seven teachers were abducted on the day.

One of the teachers was beheaded in captivity by the bandits while the remaining victims are still being held captive.

How Adelabu’s sister, twin sons were rescued

The police who launched a massive manhunt for the abductors soon after they struck on Wednesday finally swooped on them in their den yesterday.

The victims were rescued alive while two of the kidnappers were killed in the ensuing gun duel with the police.

Sources said the rescue operation entailed sustained intelligence tracking and tactical pressure.

Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, confirmed the rescue.

He said: “The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State just called us now that the victims have been rescued hale and healthy.

“We thank the police and other security agencies, the media and other stakeholders for their concerns.”

The rescue came 24 hours after Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde paid a sympathy visit to Chief Adebayo Adelabu on the abduction.

The governor had said government was working hard to rescue the victims who were kidnapped at about 7:30 a.m. when Mrs John-Paul was taking her children to school.

Earlier yesterday, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, assured Nigerians of the Air Force’s commitment to the safe rescue of the Oriire LGA abducted students and their teachers.

He spoke during the NAF second quarter 2026 route march exercise in Abuja.

Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi, the CAS said that the NAF remained committed to supporting the ongoing security operations across the country.

He said the service would continue to work in synergy with other security agencies to protect lives and property as well as advance national security objectives.

Troops neutralise bandits, dismantle hideouts in Sokoto

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have neutralised bandits and dismantled their hideouts in the highlands bordering Zamfara State, around Dangulbi and Kurawa villages in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Several bandits, including kingpins, were killed while numerous others escaped with gunshot wounds in the June 4 operation.

The operation was in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes in the area, assuring that the tempo would be sustained.

“The swift response, professionalism and courage displayed by our military personnel averted what could have been a tragic incident,” NAN quoted a source as saying.

“Let me once again reaffirm our commitment to protecting the lives and property of the citizenry.

“The army engaged them in a fierce battle. The bandits later retreated and fled into forests in neighbouring states.

“Soldiers also recovered several weapons and motorcycles.”

In a similar raid in Benue State, troops of Sector One of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) killed several bandits in a hideout in the Aterayange area of Ukum LGA.

Some weapons were also recovered during the operation said to have targeted at criminals based in the state and those infiltrating from neighbouring Nasarawa and Taraba states.

Two kidnap victims rescued in Kwara

In Kwara State, soldiers attached to Operation Savannah Shield rescued two kidnap victims during a June 3 patrol of the Gidan Dogo Ekaa axis.

The soldiers had encountered the two men who had escaped from their abductors.

The military identified the victims as Temitope Samuel, 42, and Mohammed Sani, 40.

“In a decisive demonstration of operational prowess, troops of the Joint Task Force North Central Operation Savannah Shield successfully rescued two civilians from the clutches of kidnappers in Kwara State,” the army said.

The army said the victims were immediately taken into protective custody and transported to Patrol Base Babanla, where they are receiving medical treatment, psychological support and other assistance following their ordeal.

Military authorities said arrangements were being made to reunite the rescued men with their families.

Bandits demand livestock, members’ release in exchange for freedom of abducted retired general, wife

Bandits who abducted Major General Abubakar Rabe (rtd) and his wife in Katsina State penultimate Saturday yesterday posted on social media a video of the couple in captivity.

 

The couple was seen standing and calling, apparently at the prompting of their captors, for the release from security custody of three of their members named as Sani, Aminu and Nasiru.

The abductors also demanded the return of livestock allegedly seized from them.

According to Hajiya Amina Abubakar, two of the detained suspects were arrested in Jikamshi and the third in Kano.

She also appealed to the Katsina State Government and leaders of five local government areas to facilitate compliance with the demands to secure their release.

The retired general said the abductors had expressed interest in dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

The victims were travelling to Katsina with their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu, when their vehicle was ambushed along the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli Road in Matazu Local Government Area.

The driver managed to escape.

Katsina State Govt: Their freedom is on the way

Reacting to the video yesterday, the Katsina State Government said the couple “will soon regain their freedom following intensified efforts by security agencies and the state government.”

The State Ministry of Information said in a statement that soon after their abduction, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda directed all relevant security agencies to prioritize the safe rescue of the retired General, his wife, and other victims held by bandits.

It said preliminary investigations “indicate that the kidnapping was a deliberate and targeted operation.”

It added: “Evidence suggests that the retired military officer and his wife were monitored and trailed from Kaduna, their point of departure, highlighting a concerning shift in the tactics of criminal groups operating in the region.

“The state government noted that the sophistication of the operation points to the involvement of organized criminal networks, a development that is shaping ongoing rescue strategies.

“Authorities are currently deploying both advanced technology and ground intelligence to track the abductors and secure the victims’ release.

“Katsina State Government reaffirmed its commitment to bringing those responsible to justice and emphasized that attacks on retired servicemen and other citizens will not be tolerated.

“Security agencies have intensified surveillance and operations in the affected area while maintaining close collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Police, and intelligence services.

“The government appealed to the public to provide any useful information that could aid ongoing investigations and urged residents and the family of Major General Rabe Abubakar to remain calm.

“It assured that all available resources are being deployed to ensure the safe return of the General, his wife, and other captives, expressing confidence that current high-level operations will soon yield positive results.”

Police Commissioner pledges commitment to safe schools in Katsina

Katsina State Police Commissioner Ali Fagge has pledged the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of schools across the state.

Fagge said educational institutions must provide conducive environments for learning and development at all times.

He spoke during a familiarization visit to the Police Secondary School, Mani in Katsina State.

Fagge inspected the existing security infrastructures within the school and assessed measures put in place to safeguard the students and personnel.

Addressing officers, teachers and students, the commissioner commended them for their commitment and dedication to duty, urging them to remain vigilant, disciplined and professional in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He also stressed the importance of education in nation-building, noting that teachers play a vital role in shaping responsible citizens and securing the future of the country.

He said: “The protection of schools remains a key priority of the Katsina State Police Command in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s Safe School Initiative, which seeks to strengthen security around educational institutions and protect learners from threats.”

The visit concluded with the signing of the visitors’ register, symbolising a renewed partnership between the police and educational stakeholders in advancing school safety in Katsina State.

Why National Assembly cannot publicly probe military now – Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said that while legislative oversight remains a constitutional duty of the National Assembly, now is not the right time for a public probe of the military because of the ongoing security challenges confronting the country.

Akpabio said subjecting the Armed Forces to a public legislative investigation at a time when troops are battling terrorism, banditry and other security threats across the country could undermine their morale and operational effectiveness.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, who also dismissed reports claiming that the Senate President had promised to secure senatorial tickets for lawmakers who lost their party primaries.

According to the statement, Akpabio never made such a promise and had not authorised anyone to speak on his behalf on the matter.

“The attention of the Office of the President of the Senate has been drawn to misleading reports circulating in sections of the media suggesting that the President of the Senate has promised to secure senatorial tickets for senators who lost their party primaries.

“We must categorically assert that this report does not reflect the position of the President of the Senate. For the records, Senator Akpabio has neither made nor authorised to be made such promise,” the statement said.

Eyiboh explained that what Akpabio told his colleagues was that he sympathised with senators affected by the outcome of their party primaries and assured them that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was working to address issues arising from the exercise.

He added that the Senate President merely informed the lawmakers that the party would release its final list of candidates in accordance with its constitution and electoral guidelines.

The statement stressed that Akpabio remained committed to party discipline, due process and the internal dispute-resolution mechanisms of the APC.

“Senator Akpabio remains committed to party discipline, due process, and the internal mechanisms of the APC for resolving disputes.

“He will not interfere with the autonomous processes of the party or make commitments that are outside the purview of the National Assembly leadership,” it stated.

On the issue of security and legislative oversight, Eyiboh said the Senate President believed that engagement with security agencies should be conducted in a manner that would not distract troops from their ongoing operations.

“While legislative oversight is a constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio’s position is that this is not the opportune moment for a public probe of the Armed Forces.

“At a time when our troops are engaged on multiple fronts against terrorism, banditry and other threats to national security, subjecting the military to a public legislative inquisition could undermine their morale and operational focus.

“The Senate President believes strongly that support, collaboration and closed-door engagements with security agencies are more productive at this critical time.

“Oversight will be exercised responsibly without creating distractions that embolden adversaries or divert attention from the urgent task of securing Nigeria and its people,” the statement added.

Akpabio also urged journalists and members of the public to disregard what he described as sensational and inaccurate interpretations of his comments, and to seek clarification from his office whenever necessary before publication.

Sanwo-Olu rallies support for Tinubu, says Nigeria won’t bow to terror

Amid the challenge of insecurity confronting the nation, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State yesterday rallied support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the security agencies.

He vowed that rather than bow to terror, the nation would overcome the forces of darkness behind the unseemly incidents.

In a statement he issued yesterday, the governor said the nation is in a moment her citizens must unite as one people behind the President.

“Recent security incidents in parts of our country have understandably generated concerns amongst citizens.

‘But moments like this in our national life requires that we remind ourselves of our national character as a people.

“We are Nigerians. Our will is strong and our spirit is unbreakable,” the statement said.

It added: “This is the time we must stand united as one people behind our nation’s leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and all of our armed forces.

“The forces of evil confronting our nation do not ask for our political affiliation before they kill, maim and destroy.

“So must our resolve and support for our nation to be devoid of political leanings and divisive rhetoric.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu said every life lost is a tragedy, adding that every community threatened by violence deserves solidarity, support, and protection.

“As a people, we must continue to keep the victims of these unfortunate incidents in our thoughts and prayers.

“We must be united in our prayers for the teachers and students abducted from Orire Local Government Area in Oyo State.

“In trying moments like this, Nigerians must never lose faith in our nation or in our collective ability to overcome adversity.

“We are Nigerians. The seed of greatness lies within each and every one of us,” the statement added.

The governor recalled that the country has faced many challenges throughout its history. “We have confronted economic setbacks, political instability, social tensions, and security threats.

“Yet, through resilience, courage and unity of purpose, we have always emerged stronger.

“This moment will be no different.

“The security challenge confronting our nation today is not insurmountable.

“The forces seeking to spread fear and instability do not represent the character of our people or the future of our country.

“Their actions are designed to weaken our resolve and diminish our confidence.

“We must deny them that victory, because we are Nigerians.

“I urge Nigerians across every state, region, faith, and ethnic background to remain united.

“This is not a time for division or despair. It is a time to reaffirm our common identity and our shared commitment to peace, progress, and national development.”

Sanwo-Olu said as citizens, we all have a stake in the security and stability of the country, noting that government cannot win the battle without the support, cooperation vigilance and active intelligence sharing by the local communities.

“Communities must remain alert. Citizens must continue to support lawful efforts aimed at protecting lives and property.

“Together, we can create an environment where criminal elements find no refuge and no support,” he said.

He reiterated his confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and in the ability of the security and intelligence services to defeat the forces of evil attacking soft targets within the civilian population in our land.

He said: “Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm’s way to defend our nation and preserve our freedoms.

“They deserve our prayers and our motivation to lift their spirits as they take on these forces of evil.

“The work being done to strengthen our security architecture, improve intelligence gathering and confront criminal networks across the country requires patience, determination and national unity.

“Lasting solutions are rarely achieved overnight, but progress is possible when a nation stands firmly behind those charged with protecting it.

“As Governor of Lagos State, I speak not only for the people of our state but also as a Nigerian who believes deeply in the promise of this country.

“I am convinced that our best days remain ahead of us.

“The challenges before us today must not define us. What should define us is how we respond—with courage instead of fear, with unity instead of division, and with hope instead of despair.

“To our young people, I say remain hopeful.

“To our families and communities, I say remain resilient.

“To those serving on the frontlines of our nation’s security efforts, I say remain steadfast.

“And to every Nigerian, I say keep faith with our country.

“This battle shall be won. Nigeria will prevail because the collective strength of our people is greater than the evil agenda of the few who are bent on making us live in fear and despair.

“Together, we will build a Nigeria safer within her communities and confident of her future.

“May God continue to bless Lagos State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”