The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Osun community seeks Adeleke, Ooni’s intervention to avert communal clash over Obaship dispute

    Osun community seeks Adeleke, Ooni’s intervention to avert communal clash over Obaship dispute

    Indigenes and residents of Moro Town in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State have appealed to Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to intervene urgently and prevent a potential communal clash arising from an unresolved obaship dispute and allegations of impersonation within the community.

    The town has been in the process of installing a new monarch following the death of Oba Ezekiel Oyeniyi in 2024. However, tensions have escalated as claims over the rightful occupant of the throne remain contested.

    Addressing journalists on Sunday at the palace, the Olumoro Chiefs-in-Council, led by High Chief Festus Abidoye, the Oosa, confirmed that the dispute is currently before the Osun State High Court, Ile-Ife.

    Chief Abidoye alleged that one Prince Gideon has been presenting himself as the Olumoro, describing the act as unacceptable and warning him to desist immediately.

    Read Also: Oyo police intercept truckload of suspected explosive materials in Saki

    He said, “It is pertinent to note that the matter of the Olumoro stool is currently before a competent Court of law. The case is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for early February 2026. As a people known for wisdom and respect for order, we must recognize that once a matter is sub judice, it is no longer subject to personal interpretation or unilateral action.

    “Unfortunately, it has come to the attention of the Olumoro Chiefs-in-Council and concerned stakeholders that one of the contestants to the stool, Prince Gideon, is allegedly parading himself as the Olumoro while the case remains unresolved. This development is deeply concerning.”

    He warned, “The act of impersonation and interference of Saalu Edunabon, Oba Adesoji Oladepo, can snowball into a communal clash among the contenders of the stool.

    “We appeal to Governor Ademola Adeleke and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, to intervene in this matter and call these two people to order before this result to communal clash.”

    Also, the Youth Jide Abomide urged Adeleke and Ooni to prevail on Salu and the prince who is impersonating as the monarch of the town. 

  • Suspected gunmen ambush police patrol, kill officer in Oyo

    Suspected gunmen ambush police patrol, kill officer in Oyo

    Authorities have confirmed the death of a police inspector in an ambush by suspected gunmen at Budo Masalasi Border Post in Oyo State.

    The incident occurred on Sunday around 2 PM, when officers on routine patrol encountered a group of 12 to 15 suspected bandits. An exchange of gunfire ensued, but the attackers’ numerical advantage led to the death of the inspector.

    Unconfirmed reports indicate that the assailants seized the officer’s AK-47 rifle, loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition (breach number 4516).

    Efforts by police tactical teams, guided by credible intelligence, are ongoing to track the bandits and recover the stolen firearm.

    DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, confirmed the development, adding that preliminary findings suggest some of the attackers sustained gunshot injuries, and operatives are actively pursuing them.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    He said, “Yes, there was an attack on Police operatives during which an Inspector, while courageously repelling the attack, paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

    “Immediately this information was received, the Commissioner of Police ordered an immediate manhunt and a comprehensive investigation into the attack.

    “Preliminary findings indicate that some of the attackers sustained bullet injuries, and operatives are currently on their trail.

    “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to reassure members of the public that adequate security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property.

    “Residents are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report any individuals with gunshot injuries, those seeking medical attention under suspicious circumstances, or persons exhibiting suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or security agency.

    “The Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous act are apprehended and brought to justice.”

    The Nation reports that the development comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked the National Park Service office in Oloka Community, also in Oriire Local Government Area, killing five forest rangers.

  • CAN holds prayer for safe return of 177 abducted worshippers in Kajuru

    CAN holds prayer for safe return of 177 abducted worshippers in Kajuru

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State held a special prayer session on Sunday for the safe return of 177 worshippers abducted from churches in Kurmin Wali community a week earlier.

    The event, hosted at Tawaliu Baptist Church in Maraban Kajuru, brought together Christian leaders from across Kaduna State and the northern region, as families of the abducted continued to await news of their loved ones.

    The victims, members of the Evangelical Church Winning All and the Cherubim and Seraphim churches, were seized during Sunday services when armed men invaded the community and forced congregants into nearby forests. While a few worshippers managed to escape, the majority remained in captivity.

    Speaking at the gathering, Reverend Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of CAN in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, urged churches to strengthen security measures around places of worship.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    “Prayer must be combined with vigilance,” Reverend Hayab said, stressing the need for basic internal security and monitoring arrangements to observe activities within and around church premises during services. He warned that unrestricted access to church grounds without situational awareness exposes worshippers to danger.

    Describing the security situation in Kajuru as deeply troubling, Reverend Hayab called the repeated attacks on communities and churches unacceptable, urging urgent collective action to protect worshippers and restore safety.

    “We have been praying and watching instead of watching and praying. The church must wake up,” he said, warning that faith must be accompanied by responsibility and preparedness.

    In his remarks, the Chairman of CAN in Kajuru Local Government Area, Reverend Enoch Kaura, said the prayer session was convened to seek God’s intervention for the safe return of the abducted worshippers and to pray for wisdom for government authorities and security agencies.

    Reverend Kaura condemned the abduction and criticised what he described as the initial denial of the incident by government authorities, saying it cast doubt on the accounts of victims, families, clergy, and eyewitnesses.

    He traced the roots of insecurity in Kajuru to the 1980s, noting that violence escalated in 2017 and 2018 during the Kasuwan Magani crisis, which culminated in the abduction and killing of the area’s paramount ruler.

    According to him, the Kurmin Wali abduction was not an isolated incident, recalling previous attacks on Buda Church where a pastor and some members were abducted, as well as the killing of a church member in Ugakala Maro last year.

    He added that since 2019, no fewer than eleven pastors and their wives had been killed, while several others were abducted, forcing many communities to abandon their homes.

    While acknowledging that the administration of Governor Uba Sani had recorded relative peace in parts of Kajuru, Reverend Kaura said lingering insecurity continued to prevent residents from fully returning to normal life, including harvesting their farm produce.

    He called on the government and security agencies to intensify operations in Kajuru and other vulnerable areas to prevent further attacks and ensure the rescue of all abducted worshippers.

    The prayer session was attended by the Kaduna State Chairman of CAN, Reverend Caleb Bawa Ma’aji, as well as bishops and clergy from various denominations.

  • FULL LIST: Africa’s top 10 biggest streamers in 2026

    FULL LIST: Africa’s top 10 biggest streamers in 2026

    Africa’s digital ecosystem has witnessed a dramatic transformation within a matter of days, as live streaming evolved from a fringe pastime into a fast-growing, multi-million-dollar industry. What was once dominated by a small circle of gaming enthusiasts in South Africa has been reshaped by a surge from West Africa, triggered by the arrival and influence of global streaming stars in Lagos and Accra.

    The growing attention of international figures such as Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed sparked intense local engagement, accelerating the rise of African streamers from social media personalities to full-scale broadcasters commanding large, loyal audiences across the continent.

    To reflect the industry’s realities in 2026, the ranking of Africa’s top streamers is anchored on combined followership across Twitch and Kick. This approach captures the continent’s evolving streaming patterns, as creators in West and Southern Africa continue to dominate Twitch, while leading North African streamers increasingly leverage Kick’s creator-friendly incentives.

    By consolidating audiences across both platforms, the metric provides a clearer measure of genuine influence, prioritising committed viewership over fleeting social media visibility and offering a more accurate snapshot of Africa’s elite streaming landscape.

    Here are the Biggest African Streamers in 2026:

    1. Ilyas El Maliki (Morocco) – 847,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: KICK (@ilyaselmaliki)

    Morocco’s Ilyas El Maliki has emerged as Africa’s most dominant streamer, commanding the largest audience on Kick. He drew global attention after peaking at over 500,000 concurrent viewers during his commentary at the King’s World Cup Nations. Known for his unfiltered delivery in Moroccan Darija, El Maliki built his following through reaction-based content and entertainment-driven gameplay, notably GTA V. He covered the King’s World Cup as chairman of Morocco’s national team, which reached the semi-finals, rather than as a neutral commentator. Backed by a massive and unified North African audience, El Maliki is widely regarded as Africa’s biggest streamer in 2026.

    2. Carter Efe (Nigeria) – 560,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@carterefe)

    Nigerian comedian-turned-streamer Carter Efe, born Oderhowho Joseph Efe, has successfully converted his “Machala” music fame into a formidable streaming career. His Twitch channel blends street-pop culture, celebrity interviews, and interactive variety content, earning him the title of the most-followed Africa-based creator on the platform. His profile surged in late 2025 after a record-breaking livestream with Davido delivered 139,000 new followers in one night. Hosting top Nigerian and international stars, Carter has positioned his channel as a bridge between Afrobeats and the global streaming scene, cementing his place among Africa’s elite creators.

    3. Shank Comics (Nigeria) – 258,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@shankcomics)

    Shank Comics, whose real name is Adesokan Adedeji Emmanuel, remains a trailblazer in Nigeria’s streaming space. He was the first Nigerian to surpass 100,000 followers on Twitch, a feat that redefined local possibilities. His rise gained international momentum in May 2025 when he attended Kai Cenat’s “Streamer University” in the United States as its first international participant. A $10,000 prize from MrBeast further boosted his profile, triggering a rapid surge in followers. With a focus on “Just Chatting” and variety content, Shank retains a strong legacy and cultural relevance.

    4. Enzo (Nigeria) – 204,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@rynenzo)

    Enzo, popularly known as Rynenzo, has built his platform on consistency and organic growth. From just 200 followers in 2023, he grew his Twitch community to over 200,000 by 2026 through a focus on pure gaming content. His discipline earned him a place at Kai Cenat’s “Streamer University” in 2025, while a landmark livestream with global music star Rema elevated his profile. Enzo is widely respected for technical excellence and long-term community building.

    5. Peller (Nigeria) – 183,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: KICK (@Peller)

    Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja, known as Peller, is one of the standout beneficiaries of Kick’s expansion in West Africa. As Nigeria’s first official Kick brand ambassador, the 20-year-old bypassed traditional platforms to amass a large following on Kick, complemented by a growing Twitch audience. His visibility spiked in early 2026 after a widely discussed snub during IShowSpeed’s Lagos visit, which galvanised his fan base and underscored his growing influence.

    Read Also: Akwa Ibom traditional rulers endorse Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno for 2027

    6. Rachel Kay (South Africa) – 144,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@RachelKay)

    Cape Town-based Rachel Kay is Africa’s most-followed female streamer as of January 2026. Born in Miami to South African parents, she returned home as a teenager and has since become a pillar of the country’s streaming community. Known for high-production gameplay, particularly in RPG and survival titles, Rachel commands a premium global audience and is frequently cited by international brands as a benchmark for African creators.

    7. Ojo (Nigeria) – 66,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@ojo_isAboy)

    Ojo has carved a niche through matchmaking and community-focused content. Although his follower count is modest, his live viewership often rivals that of much larger channels. A regular collaborator within West Africa’s streaming boom, Ojo’s influence lies in engagement and consistency rather than raw numbers.

    8. Salma Hassan (Egypt) – 64,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@The_Salma)

    Alexandria-based Salma Hassan, known online as The_Salma, is a major force in Egypt’s gaming scene and a member of “The 1 Team.” Renowned for her energetic morning streams and relatable style, she has built a loyal MENA audience. Logging over 300 hours of airtime in a single month, Salma stands out for discipline, consistency, and strong local appeal.

    9. Lord Lamba (Nigeria) – 39,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@lordlambaa)

    Promise Kelvin Anagbogu, popularly called Lord Lamba, reflects the challenges of transitioning from viral skit-making to full-time streaming. Now based in the United States, he has sought to migrate his large social media following to Twitch through banter-driven “Just Chatting” sessions. His experience highlights the difficulties creators face when operating outside the local ecosystems that fuelled their initial growth.

    10. AliasV (South Africa) – 34,000+ followers

    Primary Platform: Twitch (@AliasV)

    AliasV, whose real name is Eilidh Lonie, completes the top 10 as Africa’s leading professional shoutcaster. Beginning her journey in Johannesburg, she rose to global recognition after being recruited by Wizards of the Coast to host major Magic: The Gathering tournaments. Today, she combines high-level strategic insight with professional commentary, earning respect across the international esports and streaming community.

  • Oyo police intercept truckload of suspected explosive materials in Saki

    Oyo police intercept truckload of suspected explosive materials in Saki

    The Oyo State Police Command has announced the interception of a truck conveying suspected explosive materials during a stop-and-search operation in Saki.

    According to the command, the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence, leading to the discovery of the suspicious consignment.

    In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the truck and the suspected explosive devices have been secured and are currently in police custody for further investigation.

    He assured residents that the command is taking all necessary measures to ensure public safety and prevent any potential security threats.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    He said, “Upon receiving a briefing on the development, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Femi Haruna, psc, immediately ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

    “Consequently, specialized personnel of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit and the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Unit were deployed to safely secure the items for safekeeping and forensic examination.

    “Detailed forensic analysis has since commenced, alongside a thorough and robust investigation to determine the exact nature of the items and their intended use.

    “The driver of the truck has been taken into custody and is cooperating fully with investigators as efforts continue to unravel all circumstances surrounding the incident.

    “The Commissioner of Police appreciates the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, for his unwavering support, strategic leadership, and continued provision of operational guidance that enhance proactive and intelligence-driven policing across the country.”

    He, however, reassured members of the public that the Nigeria Police Force remains fully committed to the protection of lives and property, urging them to remain calm, as there is no cause for panic.

  • TASFUED to confer honorary doctorate on Oluremi Tinubu for educational advocacy

    TASFUED to confer honorary doctorate on Oluremi Tinubu for educational advocacy

    The management of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASFUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, has announced its decision to honour Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, with an Honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) in recognition of her lifelong commitment to education and social development.

    In a statement issued on Sunday by the university’s Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dapo Oke, TASFUED said Tinubu’s sustained advocacy for education, especially the empowerment of the girl child, aligns with the institution’s mission to advance learning and produce quality educators.

    “Dr Oluremi Tinubu’s advocacy, particularly for the girl child, which began during her tenure as First Lady of Lagos State and has continued unabated to her present role, aligns perfectly with the core mission of a university dedicated to fostering education and learning,” the statement read.

    The honorary degree will be conferred on Thursday, January 29, 2026, during the university’s 17th Convocation Ceremony at its campus.

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and former Governor Olusegun Osoba are also scheduled to be honoured at the event.

    Oke noted that the award goes beyond ceremonial recognition, describing it as an endorsement of Tinubu’s decades-long contributions to youth empowerment, educational development, and her consistent stance on education as a foundation for national progress.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    “Her key initiatives under the New Era Foundation include: Spelling Bee Competition: Launched in 2001 for Public Schools to promote academic excellence, leading to the “One-Day-Governor” initiative.

    “New Era Youth Camp (NEYOCA): A residential facility for youth aged 7–17, focusing on leadership and skill development.

    “Alternative High School for Girls: A rehabilitation initiative for Out-of-School Girls. Educational & Community Projects: Including the Junior Chef Competition, HIV/AIDS advocacy, and environmental health awareness.

    “The foundation’s activities aim to foster positive change, providing mentorship and opportunities for children and youth to attain their full potential,” he said.

    He added that the university identifies “with an icon and celebrates her extraordinary recent initiative that transcends politics: the mobilization of over N25 Billion for the completion of the National Library of Nigeria through dedicating her 65th birthday celebrations to this worthy project.”

    Senator (Dr.) Oluremi Tinubu, he said, demonstrated visionary leadership, transforming personal celebration into a monumental national project for the “preservation of knowledge.”

    “She has, through her initiatives in Education become a catalyst for the girl child and women empowerment, which has inspired and established a model for the graduating students of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education.

    “This honour may not be appreciated as a worthy welcome to HE, Senator ( Dr.) Oluremi Tinubu is back home as an alumnus of Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School (OLASS).  Linking the foundation of her own formative years in this region to the pinnacle of nation-building for her life’s work.

    “It beautifully symbolises a full-circle moment, where the values and knowledge imbibed in her youth have flourished into a legacy of service that now benefits the entire nation.

    “The conferment of this Honorary Degree is a glowing tribute to a humanist, philanthropist, and social enthusiast, HE Senator (Dr.) Oluremi Tinubu’s records for impactful advocacy.

    “Tai Solarin Federal University of Education is proud to be aligned to the values associated with a living champion of educational commitment in honour and distinction,” the statement read.

  • Expectant woman dies at ‘illegal clinic’ in Ondo

    Expectant woman dies at ‘illegal clinic’ in Ondo

    …quack doctor, wife arrested

    An expectant mother, identified as Ms Iyanu, has lost her life following alleged ‘medical mismanagement’ by unlicensed practitioners operating an illegal health facility in the Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The Nation gathered that the deceased died at an unregistered medical facility allegedly operated by Kehinde Olawuyi (36) and his wife, Eniola Olawuyi, at Orita Odigbo, without the requisite government approvals.

    Confirming the incident on Sunday, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said that the suspects admitted Ms Iyanu on January 4, 2026, at about 12:00 noon for childbirth at the illegal facility.

    According to Abayomi, the suspects allegedly mishandled the delivery process in an unprofessional manner, resulting in the victim becoming unconscious and bleeding profusely.

    He said the woman was rushed to another medical facility in Odigbo for emergency treatment, but efforts to save her proved abortive.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    “Despite medical intervention, the victim was later confirmed dead. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are not registered medical practitioners and that the facility was being operated illegally,” Abayomi stated.

    The police spokesperson disclosed that the suspects had been engaging in medical quackery, which allegedly led to the woman’s death.

    He added that investigations are ongoing, stressing that the suspects would be charged in court upon conclusion of the probe.

    However, DSP Abayomi warned members of the public against patronising unregistered and illegal medical facilities, urging residents of the state to always seek medical care from licensed and certified health institutions.

    He also appealed to members of the public with credible information that could lead to the arrest of individuals involved in medical quackery to report to the nearest police station, assuring that all information would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

    Recall that the command apprehended one Nasiru Idris for operating an illegal clinic in Ore, also in Odigbo Local Government Area.

    Idris, 25, was allegedly dispensing medical services without being a registered professional.

    His arrest followed an intelligence-led operation by the Command’s Surveillance Team.

    According to the police, a search of the clinic led to the recovery of various medical items, including injection needles, medical drips, bandages, and assorted medical kits.

    “Subsequently, a search of his residence was conducted with a duly signed search warrant, during which used injection bottles, needles, and syringes were also recovered,” the police said in a statement.

    It added that preliminary investigations confirmed that the suspect is not a registered medical practitioner and that the clinic was being operated illegally.

  • BREAKING: I’m set to join APC tomorrow, says Kano governor

    BREAKING: I’m set to join APC tomorrow, says Kano governor

    Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, is set to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday, 26 January 2026.

    His decision came after he resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) last Friday.

    This was contained in a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Sunday.

    The statement recalled that Governor Yusuf first joined the APC in 2014 when he won the party’s primary election for the Kano Central Senatorial seat, a position he later conceded to Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

    It noted that after years of political engagement across different platforms, including his most recent stint in the NNPP, prevailing realities of governance, national cohesion, and development necessitated his return to the APC, which he described as a familiar and structured platform for progressive governance.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    Governor Yusuf stated that rejoining the APC would further strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government, accelerate infrastructural development, enhance security coordination, and improve service delivery across Kano State.

    He added that the decision would also consolidate political stability and unity in the state.

    On Monday, 26 January 2026, the governor will formally register as a member of the APC in Kano alongside 22 members of the State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, and the 44 local government chairmen.

    Yusuf is also expected to officially launch the APC e-registration exercise in the state.

  • NCAN suspends revenue collection, dissolves executive

    NCAN suspends revenue collection, dissolves executive

    The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) has suspended all forms of revenue collection in its name with immediate effect, pending institutional reforms and the harmonisation of its governance structures.

    The resolution was part of key decisions unanimously adopted at the NCAN Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Stakeholders’ Forum held in Abuja.

    In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the association also condemned what it described as increasing foreign encroachment across Nigeria’s cashew value chain, warning that such practices undermine local farmers, processors, exporters, and the country’s economic interests.

    In a communiqué signed by the NCAN Secretariat, with Mr. Olarotimi Ayeka listed as Secretary and Mr. Ademola Bamidele Adesokan as President, NCAN rejected calls for a ban on cashew nut exports, stressing that it would instead engage government authorities to promote value addition, improved seeding, respect for contract agreements by foreign buyers, and stronger support for cashew farmers.

    On policy direction, the AGM expressly opposed any proposal for an outright ban on the export of Raw Cashew Nuts (RCN), noting that such a move could disrupt livelihoods.

    The association said any policy intervention must strike a balance between value addition, farmer welfare, export competitiveness, and national interest.

    In a major leadership shake-up, the AGM dissolved the Ojo Ajanaku–led administration, citing loss of confidence and legitimacy.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    Members and stakeholders present at the meeting endorsed and ratified Mr. Ademola Bamidele Adesokan as the new President of NCAN. The association said an official gazetted communiqué reflecting the leadership transition would be issued before the end of the week.

    The AGM further resolved to undertake a comprehensive review and amendment of the NCAN constitution to reflect current industry realities.

    The planned amendments include provisions to ensure that only bona fide cashew stakeholders can become president, prevent any president from exceeding constitutionally defined tenure, and establish a clear, transparent, and enforceable leadership succession framework.

    As part of its immediate directives, NCAN ordered all revenue agents and representatives nationwide to cease revenue collection activities on behalf of the association.

    It warned that any individual or group that defies the directive would be reported and treated as acting illegally.

    The communiqué also disclosed that all state police commands have been formally notified of the resolutions through the Office of the Inspector-General of Police.

  • Police foil kidnapping attempt, rescue victim in Oyo

    Police foil kidnapping attempt, rescue victim in Oyo

    A kidnapped victim, Haruna Lawal, who was abducted at Olorunda village via Oyo, has been rescued by operatives of the Oyo State Command of the Nigerian Police.

    The victim, who was abducted alongside his motorcycle to an unknown location, was rescued after his sister, Alimot, made a distress call to the Police to alert them of the invasion of the residence by suspected kidnappers who were said to be armed with dangerous weapons.

    Confirming the rescue in a statement, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Oyo State Command, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the prompt response and aggressive bush-combing operation by the police exerted pressure on the suspects.

    He explained that, as police operatives advanced into the area with patrol vans and sirens, the kidnappers, realizing that security forces were closing in on them, abandoned the victim and fled, adding that the kidnapped victim was consequently rescued alive.

    Ayanlade said, “We wish to inform the general public of the successful rescue of a kidnapped victim following the swift and coordinated response of police operatives, reflecting the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Gov Yusuf’s defection as turning point for Kano politics

    “On 24th January, 2026, at about 0210 hours, the Command received a distress call from Alimot (female) of Ojongbodu Area, Oyo State, reporting that suspected kidnappers armed with dangerous weapons had invaded her brother’s residence.

    “During the invasion, the assailants abducted Haruna Lawal (male) of Olorunda Village via Oyo and escaped with his motorcycle to an unknown location.

    “Upon receipt of the report and acting on the directives of the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Femi Haruna, operatives of the Command immediately swung into action and deployed to the area. The prompt response and aggressive bush-combing operation exerted pressure on the suspects.

    “As police operatives advanced into the area with patrol vans and sirens, the kidnappers, realizing that security forces were closing in on them, abandoned the victim and fled. The kidnapped victim was consequently rescued alive.

    “The victim sustained a head injury during the ordeal and was promptly conveyed to the General Hospital, Oyo, where he is currently receiving appropriate medical attention.

    “The swift rescue, achieved within hours of the abduction, underscores the professionalism, vigilance, and dedication of the Oyo State Police Command in responding decisively to threats against public safety.”

    He, however, assured that efforts have been intensified to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects, while the investigation into the incident is ongoing.