Five police men were reportedly killed and two others injured yesterday following an ambush by suspected bandits in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The incident occurred around 12:40 pm when a tactical team comprising personnel from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Mobile Police 10PMF Bauchi, Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU), and the State Intelligence Department (SID) were ambushed by unidentified assailants while on a visibility patrol aimed at preventing and managing farmer–herder conflicts in the area.
In a statement yesterday, the spokesman of the Command, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ahmed Muhammed Wakil, confirmed the deaths of the following officers: DSP Ahmad Muhammad (SID), ASP Mustapha Muhammad (10 PMF), Inspector Amarhel Yunusa (10 PMF), Inspector Idris Ahmed (10 PMF), and Corporal Isah Muazu (AKU).
CSP Wakil added that two other officers, Inspector Isah Musa (SID) and Inspector Yusuf Gambo (SID), sustained injuries and were promptly evacuated to Darazo General Hospital for treatment.
“The Divisional Police Officer, SP Auwalu Ilu, led reinforcements to the scene to rescue and evacuate both the injured and deceased personnel. The remains of the fallen officers have been deposited at the morgue, while the injured are receiving medical attention,” CSP Wakil said.
He further stated that efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend the perpetrators, assuring the public that the Command is committed to bringing those responsible for this heinous act to justice.
Renowned Fuji maestro, Alhaji Abass Akande, popularly known as “Obesere,” has narrated his ordeal in the hands of armed hoodlums over the weekend in Ondo State.
Akande was attacked during a burial ceremony at the Government Field in Okitipupa, while his band team, who were set to entertain guests at the ceremony, were also assaulted.
During the attack, it was gathered that one of Akande’s band boys was allegedly stabbed by the hoodlums while trying to repeal the attack.
In a statement, Obesere’s Media Manager, Ayonla Obesere Althentic, said: “ After Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere (Papa) concluded his performance and while we were preparing to leave the venue, large groups of touts surrounded the area.
”One group converged on my location because I was carrying the bag of money. Despite our efforts to leave peacefully, my principal and I were aggressively confronted. The assailants demanded that I hand over the bag; when I refused, a violent struggle ensued.
“During the attack, I was beaten, and my shoulder was dislocated as a result of the struggle. I was also struck with a knife while attempting to get into the car; I cannot confirm a stabbing wound, but I sustained several blows and am in significant pain,” he said.
He added that the attackers overpowered him and escaped with the bag of money while another group continued to assault Akande despite his attempts to placate them with cash.
He condemned the attack, describing it as “criminal and violent behaviour” that should not occur at any public event, let alone a burial ceremony.
”The attackers overpowered me and made away with the bag of money. At the same time, another group continued to manhandle Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere even after he attempted to placate them by giving money. I later guided Alhaji into our vehicle, and we left the scene to seek safety and medical attention.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled no fewer than six syndicates leading to the seizure of tons of assorted illicit drugs and the arrest of nine kingpins in series of intelligence-led interdiction operations.
Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, made this known in a statement yesterday.
Babafemi said in one of such operations, NDLEA officers last Tuesday arrested two members of a drug trafficking organisation in Onitsha, Anambra State when they showed up to take delivery of 5.40 kilogrammes of methamphetamine; 10.70 kilogrammes of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis; 16grammes of cocaine; 200grammes of phenacetin; 200grammes of methcathinone and 100grammes of caffeine concealed in pressure machine cylinders imported from South Africa.
“The first to show up at a logistics company in Onitsha for the collection of the consignments was 30-year-old electrical appliances dealer Ebulue Lotanwa Uzochukwu who was promptly arrested while shortly after, another member of the syndicate 51-year-old South Africa returnee Christopher Michael Ndibuisi showed up and was equally arrested.
“The consignments had arrived the import shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja-Lagos with airway bill number 118-12882973 arriving from South Africa on a Tag-Angola flight on November 13, 2025 and was seized based on credible intelligence. A follow up sting operation was organised in Onitsha, Anambra State where the recipients – Uzochukwu and Ndibuisi – were arrested.
“In another operation at the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives on November 20 intercepted a brake servo automobile part used to conceal 48 pellets and a block of cocaine with a gross weight of 2.30 kilogrammes packed among other auto parts going to Gabon.’’
A businessman, Dr. Jude Ndudi, has told the Federal High Court in Lagos how a former bank manager, Fidelis Egueke, allegedly threatened him and his sister when he demanded repayment of over N480 million allegedly withdrawn fraudulently from his company’s accounts.
Egueke, a former branch manager of a tier-1 branch in Asaba, is standing trial on a 16-count amended charge bordering on conspiracy, fraud, unlawful conversion, obtaining by false pretence and unauthorised withdrawals.
At the resumed hearing, Ndudi, led in evidence by prosecutor Morufu Animashaun, told the court that the defendant once claimed he had been appointed Commissioner for Finance in the proposed administration of Delta politician Great Ogboru, who was running for governor, and pressured him to “donate” money to secure the position.
According to the witness, he gave Egueke N20 million based on that representation.
He said problems escalated when he informed the defendant he would petition the police in Port Harcourt.
Five police officers lost their lives and two others sustained injuries on Sunday after suspected bandits ambushed a tactical team in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The attack occurred around 12:40 pm when personnel from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Mobile Police 10 PMF Bauchi, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU), and the State Intelligence Department (SID) came under fire while on a visibility patrol aimed at preventing and managing farmer–herder conflicts.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ahmed Muhammed Wakil, confirmed the deaths of DSP Ahmad Muhammad (SID), ASP Mustapha Muhammad (10 PMF), Inspector Amarhel Yunusa (10 PMF), Inspector Idris Ahmed (10 PMF), and Corporal Isah Muazu (AKU).
He added that two other officers, Inspector Isah Musa (SID) and Inspector Yusuf Gambo (SID), sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to Darazo General Hospital for treatment.
According to him, the Divisional Police Officer, SP Auwalu Ilu, led a reinforcement team to the scene to rescue the injured officers and evacuate the bodies of the deceased. The remains of the fallen personnel have since been deposited at the morgue.
CSP Wakil noted that efforts are underway to track down the attackers, assuring residents that the Command is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, visited the scene to assess the situation and sympathise with families of the deceased officers. He reiterated the Command’s resolve to protect lives and property across the state.
“The task has not been easy, but the Command remains fierce, tireless and relentless in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the people of Bauchi State,” Wakil added.
Renowned Fuji maestro, Alhaji Abass Akande, popularly known as “Obesere,” has narrated his ordeal at the hands of armed hoodlums who attacked him over the weekend in Ondo state.
Akande was violently attacked during a burial ceremony held at the government field in Okitipupa, while his band team, who were set to entertain guests at the ceremony, were also assaulted.
During the attack, it was gathered that one of Akande’s band boys was allegedly stabbed by the hoodlums while trying to repel the attack.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his media manager, Ayonla Obesere Althentic, said, “After Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere (Papa) concluded his performance and while we were preparing to leave the venue, large groups of touts surrounded the area.
”One group converged on my location because I was carrying the bag of money. Despite our efforts to leave peacefully, my principal and I were aggressively confronted. The assailants demanded that I hand over the bag; when I refused, a violent struggle ensued.
“During the attack, I was beaten, and my shoulder was dislocated as a result of the struggle. I was also struck with a knife while attempting to get into the car; I cannot confirm a stabbing wound, but I sustained several blows and am in significant pain,” he said.
He added that the attackers eventually overpowered him and escaped with the bag of money while another group continued to assault Akande despite his attempts to placate them with cash.
He condemned the attack, describing it as ‘criminal and violent behaviour’ that should not occur at any public event, let alone a burial ceremony.
”The attackers overpowered me and made away with the bag of money. At the same time, another group continued to manhandle Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere even after he attempted to placate them by giving money. I later guided Alhaji into our vehicle, and we left the scene to seek safety and medical attention.
“We condemn this criminal and violent behaviour in the strongest terms. Such attacks on performers, their teams, and mourners at a burial ceremony are unacceptable.
“Actions taken and requests we have reported the incident to the Okitipupa Police Division. We call on local authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible and to take measures to prevent similar incidents at public events.
“We appeal to fans, event organizers, and the public to refrain from violence and to respect the safety of performers, their teams, and mourners.
The Fuji star appreciated “the assistance of those who helped us at the scene and the prompt attention of local security personnel and health services. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.”
Recall that LGA chairman, Hon. Adrew Ogunsakin, had described the attack as unfortunate and unacceptable.
Ogunsakin said his administration would not tolerate acts capable of undermining the peace and reputation of the community, assuring that measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence.
“I received the news of the unfortunate mistreatment meted out to Abass Akande Obesere and his team with deep disappointment and utmost distaste. This incident is unacceptable and does not reflect the values we uphold as a people.
“I will be personally reaching out to Obesere and his team to convey our regrets. We are looking into the matter thoroughly to ensure such an incident does not repeat itself,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has arrested two “key suspects” in connection with the violent attack on Akande
Confirming the arrest in a statement released on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Ondo Police Command, Olayinka Ayanlade, listed the two suspects as Michael Abbey a.k.a ‘Emir’ and Oniye Oke.
Ayanlade, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said the breakthrough followed the command’s prompt response to credible intelligence, indicating that Mr Akande was assaulted during the event.
“Further investigations revealed that on 21st November 2025, a group of suspected hoodlums led by one Michael Abbey, popularly known as “Emir”, allegedly attacked the musician while he was performing.
“During the assault, the suspects reportedly stole a bag containing N4,000,000, as well as a gold chain, handset, and wristwatch. The situation escalated when the victim’s manager sustained an injury to the hand after being stabbed with a broken bottle while attempting to intervene.
“During interrogation, both suspects confessed to their involvement in the criminal operation. A total sum of N479,100 was recovered as part of the stolen proceeds. Efforts are currently being intensified to track down the remaining fleeing suspects and recover the outstanding exhibits linked to the case,” Ayanlade said.
He explained that the command acknowledged and appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his unwavering support and strategic guidance, which continue to bolster operational efficiency across Ondo State.
“This encouragement has further strengthened the Command’s resolve to deliver effectively on its mandate.”
In line with this commitment, Ayanlade said the state commissioner of police, Adebowale Lawal, has reiterated that the command will not tolerate any act of hooliganism, thuggery, or violent conduct – especially as the state approaches the festive period.
Stakeholders have stressed the urgent need for journalists, policymakers, researchers, diplomats, civil society leaders, and technology experts to come together to rethink the media’s role in protecting democracy in an age defined by data, artificial intelligence, and information disorder.
Across West Africa, the Executive Director, Akintunde Babatunde of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), said the integrity of public-interest journalism is increasingly challenged by political pressures, shrinking civic space, a collapsing business model, and the unchecked influence of Big Tech platforms that now control information flows and public discourse.
He said that is why the CJID found it imperative to convene a major regional conference in Abuja, bringing journalists, policymakers, researchers, diplomats, and civil society leaders together to examine how media can remain a stabilising force as Africa enters a decisive decade for governance and development.
Noting that the discussions are timely, Babatunde warned that “Democratic backsliding is accelerating, with coups, constitutional manipulation and shrinking civic space undermining trust across the region.
“At the same time, Big Tech and AI companies now shape information, governance, and economies with little accountability.
“Media ecosystems are collapsing under donor cuts, declining advertising and political repression, while misinformation distorts how young people see themselves, how families make health choices and how citizens engage politically.”
He, however, noted that Africa remains a site of innovation, with grassroots media regaining public trust, civic-tech platforms promoting transparency, researchers generating new data, and national AI strategies emerging across the continent.
“The conference is designed to help us think clearly about the next decade and the role the media must play,” he said.
The Conference, themed ‘Reimagining Democracy, Development and Data for the Next Decade’, which runs from Monday, 24 November in Abuja, will explore democratic resilience, media sustainability, the intersection of health and climate, digital rights, food security, fact-checking, and the growing influence of AI on public life.
According to the organisers, the gathering will also feature the launch of three DAIDAC research studies on information disorder, the presentation of the 2025 CJID Openness Index, exhibitions showcasing new research and innovations, and the annual CJID Journalism Awards.
High-level participation is expected, with ambassadors, development partners, and senior experts confirmed to deliver goodwill messages.
Diplomatic missions from up to 20 countries are listed on the official agenda, with the keynote address to be delivered by Juana Kweitel, Vice President and Chief Programmes Officer at Luminate, among other conversations on democracy, civic space, and data governance.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a stern warning to residents, community leaders, religious organisations, and event planners against blocking access roads before, during, and after events as the festive season approaches.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Agency expressed concern over the persistent practice of celebrants, worship centres, event organisers, and street revellers who often take over major road corridors, causing avoidable gridlock and exposing motorists to safety risks and unnecessary hardship.
LASTMA emphasised that all roadways—whether major routes or inner streets—are public assets and must not be converted into venues for private festivities or religious gatherings.
The agency also directed owners of event centres, lounges, clubs, and related recreational establishments—particularly those located in high-traffic areas such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki, and Shongotedo—to ensure proper parking arrangements for patrons. Establishments whose guests routinely park along major roads, the statement noted, risk strict enforcement actions, heavy sanctions, and possible closure in line with existing traffic laws.
General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, delivered the warning during an inspection tour of major traffic-prone corridors across the State, accompanied by senior management of the Agency.
Bakare-Oki reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to safeguarding the free movement of people, vehicles, goods, and services throughout the festive period—traditionally a time of heightened celebrations and increased vehicular activity.
He said officers would intensify surveillance, increase visibility, and deploy proactive strategies to prevent road obstructions, curb illegal parking, and check other traffic violations.
He urged residents and event organisers to act responsibly by obtaining necessary approvals, making adequate logistical plans, and cooperating fully with LASTMA personnel and other relevant authorities to ensure a safe and hitch-free festive season.
Bakare-Oki warned that the Agency would not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any individual or establishment that disrupts traffic flow or infringes on the rights of Lagosians to smooth mobility.
He added that LASTMA has strengthened its operational response system to promptly address emergencies, clear broken-down vehicles, and manage traffic incidents across the State’s corridors.
…recovers tons of illicit drugs in flight boarding pass, others
…nabs ladies for selling Colos-laced brownies online
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has said it has dismantled no fewer than six syndicates, leading to the seizure of tons of assorted illicit drugs and the arrest of nine kingpins in a series of intelligence-led interdiction operations.
Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
Babafemi said in one of such operations, NDLEA officers on Tuesday 18th November 2025 arrested two members of a drug trafficking organization in Onitsha, Anambra state when they showed up to take delivery of 5.40 kilograms of methamphetamine; 10.70 kilograms of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis; 16grams of cocaine; 200grams of phenacetin; 200grams of methcathinone and 100grams of caffeine concealed in pressure machine cylinders imported from South Africa.
“The first to show up at a logistics company in Onitsha for the collection of the consignments was 30-year-old electrical appliances dealer Ebulue Lotanwa Uzochukwu who was promptly arrested while shortly after, another member of the syndicate 51-year-old South Africa returnee Christopher Michael Ndibuisi showed up and was equally arrested.
“The consignments had arrived the import shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja-Lagos with airway bill number 118-12882973 arriving from South Africa on a Tag-Angola flight on 13th November 2025 and was immediately seized based on credible intelligence. A follow up sting operation was thereafter organized in Onitsha, Anambra state where the recipients: Uzochukwu and Ndibuisi were arrested.
“In another operation at the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives on Thursday 20th November intercepted a brake servo automobile part used to conceal 48 pellets and a block of cocaine with a gross weight of 2.30 kilograms packed among other auto parts going to Gabon.
Following the arrest of a freight agent Ameh Solomon who presented the consignment for export, a follow up at ASMPDA market, Trade Fair Complex, Ojo Lagos led to the arrest of an auto parts dealer Nwafor Tochukwu Boniface,” the statement reads.
Babafemi said in Kogi state, NDLEA operatives on Monday 17th November intercepted a trailer conveying 4,700 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis at Kabba.
According to the statement, three suspects: Solomon Dauda, Friday Garba and Daniel Danladi accompanying the consignment were arrested while a follow up operation in Jos, Plateau state on Friday 21st November led to the arrest of the kingpin who owns the trailer and the illicit drug consignment, Marcus Danladi Dan Mangu.
The statement reads, “A couple: 55-year-old Onun Okoi Okpotum and his wife 52-year-old Itam Okoi Okpotum were arrested on Wednesday, 19th November at their warehouse located at 13 Park road, Ugep Yakur LGA, Cross River state, where 362 jumbo bags of skunk weighing 4,706 kilograms were recovered.
“In Edo state, two ladies: Praise Nwogu, 19, and Ebong Emem Oghosa, 25, who specialize in the production and online sale of brownies laced with illicit drugs, were on Saturday, 22nd November arrested in Benin City. At the point of their arrest, Praise Nwogu was found with 12 plates and a cup of drug-laced brownies laced while Ebong Emem Oghosa was nabbed with 76grams of skunk, 1.5grams of Colorado, and drug-laced brownies.
“A raid at Ososo village, Akoko Edo LGA, on Tuesday, 18th November, led to the arrest of 35-year-old Shedrack Aminu, who was found with 59kg of skunk.
“Operatives on patrol along Enugu/Onitsha road, Enugu, on Wednesday, 19th November, intercepted a suspect, Chinoso Emmanuel Monday, 24, conveying 10.1kg skunk; 105,600 pills of tramadol 250mg, 225mg, and 100mg as well as 700 ampoules of pentazocine injection and 3000 rounds of live ammunition.”
Babafemi said in Kebbi state, 13,155 bottles of codeine-based syrup were evacuated from a warehouse located at Dole-Kaina, Dandi LGA, while a 23-year-old suspect, Umar Adamu, was arrested with 12,548 pills of opioids concealed in paracetamol containers heading to a Boko Haram enclave in Minok area of Borno state on Friday, 21st November.
He said two suspects, Anthony Mercy, 40, and Sunday Augustine, 39, were arrested on Monday, 17th November, with 430.5kg by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Abaji- Abuja expressway in the FCT, while Samson Dafe, 47, was arrested at Dikko junction, Kaduna road, Tafa LGA, Niger state on Tuesday, 18th November, conveying 85,100 pills of opioids and 5,456 bottles of codeine syrup in his Sharon vehicle marked ABJ 114 BV.
He added that the premises of a suspect, Sani Mohammed, in Anguwan Makera Kuta, Shiroro LGA, were raided on Thursday, 20th November raided with 437 blocks of compressed skunk weighing 471.8 kilograms recovered.
It reads, “In Lagos, a suspect, Usman Ayoola Adegoke, was arrested in connection with the seizure of 139 pouches of Canadian Loud weighing 71kg at an apartment in Lekki, while a lady, Oluchi Celestine, was nabbed on Tuesday, 18th November nabbed in Lekki with 2.6kg Colorado packaged in branded containers and some concealed in flight boarding cards.
“Acting on credible intelligence, NDLEA operatives supported by some military personnel on Monday, 17th November, raided the notorious Peti illicit drug enclave, Lagos Island, where 385 kilograms of skunk, Loud and Colorado were recovered and two suspects arrested.
“No less than 163,200 capsules of tramadol 225mg were also recovered in another operation at a motor park in the Maza Maza area of Lagos.
With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, workplaces and communities, among others, in the past week.
“These include: WADA sensitization lecture to students and staff of Baptist High School, Ilero, Oyo state; St. Michael Anglican Primary School, Afuye Epe, Lagos; Government Day Senior and Junior Secondary School, Kurami, Katsina; Women Day Secondary, Kontogora, Niger state; Government Day Secondary School, Takatuku, Sokoto; St. Paul’s College, Eke, Enugu; and Iwoye Area Community High School, Iwoye, Ogun state, among others.
“While commending the officers and men of MMIA, Lagos, Kogi, Edo, Cross River, Enugu, Kebbi, Niger, Borno, and FCT Commands for the various successful operations, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) enjoined them and their colleagues across the country to continue with the ongoing balanced approach to the drug control efforts of the Agency.”
Justifying the current heavy crackdown on drug trafficking syndicates, Marwa said the coming festive season is usually a period often exploited by criminal elements, hence the Agency has decided to launch a relentless offensive on drug trafficking cartels across the nation.
“The coming weeks present both an opportunity and a challenge. Drug cartels may attempt to increase their illegal activities, seeking to profit during the busy holiday period. We must not, and we will not, let down our guard”, he said.
Former Katsina Senator Yakubu Lado Danmarke, through the Lado Development Foundation, has written off the school fees of no fewer than 17,888 students across Katsina State as part of ongoing efforts to deepen community development.
The foundation’s coordinator, Muhammad Gali, disclosed this during a media chat at the Federal University Dutsinma, noting that the organisation has paid tuition fees for students in various tertiary institutions and secondary schools both within and outside the state.
He added that the examination fees for NECO, WAEC, and other examinations were also fully settled for numerous beneficiaries.
Gali revealed that the number of students supported this year alone has reached 17,880, a testament to the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to improving living standards and promoting inclusive growth across the state.
Speaking during the enlistment of more than 1,500 students of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), he explained that the Foundation was established to advance community development with a special focus on uplifting vulnerable groups.
According to him, its interventions focus on three core areas: education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment—each aimed at driving social and economic progress across Katsina State.
In the education sector, Gali said the Foundation has fully sponsored 5,487 students from secondary to tertiary levels, covering registration and other academic fees to ensure access to free and quality learning.
Regarding healthcare, he stated that the Foundation has supported 5,873 patients in 50 hospitals within the past six months, providing financial assistance, covering medical bills, and supplying essential medications.
It also conducts regular medical outreach programmes offering free treatment for eye conditions, dental issues, and other common illnesses, especially in rural and underserved communities.
The Nation reports that the Lado Development Foundation has also prioritised women’s empowerment through training in various vocational and income-generating skills.
