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  • Suspected bandits abduct nursing mother, infant in Ondo

    Suspected bandits abduct nursing mother, infant in Ondo

    •Veteran photojournalist kiadnapped in Kaduna community

    Suspected bandits have abducted a woman and her baby on Supare-Ayegunle Road in Akoko Southwest Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The nursing mother, whose name is still yet to be known, and her child were seized while on their way to the market.

    Also, a veteran photojournalist, Malam Umar Usman Iyale, has been abducted by bandits in Danhonu II community, Millennium City, in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

    Umar, a retired staff member of Africa Independent Television (AIT), Kaduna Station, and formerly of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Kaduna, was taken from his residence about 9:00pm on Monday, according to sources.

    The Ondo incident has sparked fear among residents who have expressed concerns over the insecurity on rural roads in Akoko.

     The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Deputy Superintendent of Police Jimoh Abayomi, said he could not confirm the incident, describing the available information as sketchy.

    However, a close relative of the victims, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the abduction.

    Residents said the gunmen carried out the operation quietly but in a coordinated manner, gaining access to the compound at a time when some members of the journalist’s family were yet to return home.

    A community source said the attackers demanded money from the victim, and when he could not provide any, they whisked him away to an unknown destination.

    Read Also: Tinubu appoints Odusote as first female DG of Nigerian Law School

    The abduction has heightened anxiety in Danhonu II, with residents expressing concern over the safety of Malam Umar, who was described as elderly and battling health challenges. “He cannot withstand hardship for long. Everyone here is worried,” a resident said.

    Another community leader lamented the ‘’recurring pattern of kidnappings in the area’’, noting that repeated attacks have forced many residents and landlords to abandon their homes.

    The state Police Command has confirmed the incident, saying it has launched an investigation aimed at rescuing the victim unhurt.

    Its Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Mansir Hassan, said the Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, had deployed a team to track down the abductors and secure the safe release of Umar.

    In July 2024, two reporters, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council/The Nation correspondent,  AbdulGafar Alabelewe and AbdulRaheem Aodu of Blueprint, were kidnapped alongside members of their families from the same community.

  • Christmas Eve: Motorcyclist dies in Ondo lone crash as police warn against festive violence

    Christmas Eve: Motorcyclist dies in Ondo lone crash as police warn against festive violence

    A yet-to-be-identified motorcyclist has lost his life in a lone road crash that occurred on Christmas Eve at the Gaga axis of Oke Aro in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

    The incident reportedly happened around 9:20 a.m. on Wednesday when the rider, said to be speeding, lost control of his motorcycle along the route.

    Eyewitnesses said the middle-aged man, who was riding a Hajue Suzuki motorcycle, collided with a concrete structure and fell into a drainage.

    Residents who rushed to the scene discovered that the rider had already died from the injuries sustained in the crash.

    No form of identification was found on the victim, and his identity remained unknown as of the time of filing this report.

    Officials of the Nigeria Police Force from the B Division, Oke Aro, later arrived at the scene and evacuated the body for further investigation.

    Meanwhile, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has cautioned the members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to shun violence and maintain peace during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

    Read Also: Ondo APC chief predicts victory for Tinubu

    Lawal issued the warning during a stakeholders’ meeting with the leadership of the union in Akure, explaining that the engagement was in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police.

    He urged transport workers to remain law-abiding and to avoid alcohol and other intoxicating substances while driving, stressing that responsible behaviour was crucial to the safety of commuters and other road users during the festive period.

    The police commissioner assured residents that security had been strengthened across the state, with additional personnel deployed for both overt and covert operations at motor parks, highways and other strategic locations.

    Lawal also commended the collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps, as well as the support of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in sustaining peace and security in the state.

    “All necessary security measures have been reinforced to sustain peace across the state. Area commanders, divisional police officers, and tactical team commanders are to remain vigilant and ensure robust security coverage throughout this period and beyond,” he said. 

  • Gunmen open fire on police checkpoint in Ondo, injured two officers

    Gunmen open fire on police checkpoint in Ondo, injured two officers

    Suspected gunmen have attacked police officers attached to the Ondo State Police Command at a checkpoint in Ipele Junction, Owo Local Government Area of the State.

    The attackers, said to be about three and riding on a motorcycle, reportedly opened fire on the operatives attached to the Safer Highway Patrol while they were on duty at the checkpoint.

    During the attack, two police officers sustained gunshot injuries, while a female bystander identified simply as Taiwo was also injured.

    Confirming the incident in a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Jimoh Kazeem, said the officers were attacked while discharging their lawful duties.

    Kazeem explained that the operatives responded swiftly and were able to repel the attackers.

    “All the injured victims were immediately rushed to the hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention,” he said. 

    He added that one of the suspects, identified as Nwabali, was arrested during the operation, while the motorcycle used by the attackers was recovered.

    “The suspect is presently in custody and has made useful statements that are aiding ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing accomplices,” Kazeem added. 

    He noted that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. 

    The police spokesperson disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as tragic and reprehensible.

    However, the commissioner commended the Safer Highway Patrol operatives for their bravery, vigilance and swift tactical response, which he said prevented loss of lives.

    CP Lawal noted that the incident underscored the effectiveness of ongoing policing reforms and enhanced operational strategies being championed by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

    He expressed appreciation to the IGP for his strategic leadership and continued support in strengthening the nation’s security architecture.

    Reaffirming the command’s commitment to public safety, the commissioner assured residents of the state that the police would remain resolute in the fight against criminal gangs and ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice.

  • Yuletide: NSCDC deploys 1,000 personnel to man security in Ondo

    Yuletide: NSCDC deploys 1,000 personnel to man security in Ondo

    The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command, has ordered the deployment of no fewer than 1,000 personnel across the state ahead of this year’s Yuletide celebrations.

    The directive was given by the State Commandant, Oluyemi Joshua Ibiloye, according to a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Daniel Aidamenbor, in Akure on Thursday. 

    Ibiloye said the deployment, contained in an operational order issued by the Operations Department, is aimed at ensuring the safety of lives and property, as well as the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) across the state and its environs before, during, and after the festive period.

    He added that the operation is designed to provide comprehensive and watertight security coverage across Ondo state through the deployment of multiple departments and specialised units.

    “These include the Arms Squad, Crack Squad, CNAI Unit, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Unit, Female Strike Force, Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Agro Rangers, and the Surveillance Unit.

    The command noted that the festive season is expected to attract large crowds, necessitating enhanced and proactive security measures. 

    “Consequently, personnel have been massively deployed to vulnerable locations and soft targets such as churches, shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks and amusement parks, with the activation of motorised patrol teams.

    “Area Commanders and Divisional Officers across the 18 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have been directed to ensure adequate coverage of their jurisdictions, while collaborating with other sister security agencies to prevent any security breaches,” the statement added. 

    Ibiloye assured residents of the state of a peaceful and secure celebration, stressing that the Corps remains committed to maintaining law and order throughout the Yuletide.

    He asked residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities by individuals or groups to the appropriate security agencies.

    However, the NSCDC boss extended his warm felicitations to the government and people of Ondo state, appreciating the unwavering support the corps received throughout the outgoing year.

  • Adegbonmire hails Tinubu as ‘Mega Empowerment’ initiative impacts lives in Ondo

    Adegbonmire hails Tinubu as ‘Mega Empowerment’ initiative impacts lives in Ondo

    The Senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a new phase of “mega empowerment” currently transforming the lives of people across his senatorial district.

    Senator Adegbonmire spoke at an empowerment programme personally initiated by him and tagged the Adegbonmire Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Programme, held in Akure for members of his constituency.

    The Nation reports that items distributed at the programme included motorcycles, tricycles, generators, sewing machines, freezers, industrial machines, wheelchairs, dryers, educational materials, cash rewards and other livelihood-support tools.

    Speaking, Senator Adegbonmire said President Tinubu’s emphasis on inclusive development is becoming increasingly evident at the grassroots, with various empowerment interventions reaching the people.

    He noted that the economic reforms and intervention programmes of the Tinubu administration have brought development to several communities, with many witnessing improved access to livelihood support and small-scale economic growth.

    “As you can see, it is mega empowerment for renewed hope. That is the slogan of President Bola Tinubu. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Assembly, I am happy to continue to support Mr. President because I think he’s doing very well.

    “Since he cannot do everything himself, those of us who are supporting him must do everything to ensure that people feel the impact of Mr. President. So I thank President Bola Tinubu for giving me this opportunity to give back to my constituents,” the senator said.

    He added: “The President is not going to come to Ondo State to campaign. We will campaign for him. This is part of the campaign for Mr. President. Hence, it is in support of the President, in support of the state government also.

    “If we do well, then the government here has done well. The President has done well. So, this is in support of both the President and the state government, and my party – APC- the only party in Nigeria.”

    Adegbonmire further explained that the empowerment programme cut across widows, artisans, market women, and business owners, noting that close to 1,000 constituents would benefit from the gesture.

    “We are empowering about 200 widows, artisans, and market women with cash. Ultimately, cash beneficiaries are about 200 people, while items go to about 650 beneficiaries – approximately 850 to 900 people.

    “As you all know, I have spent about two and a half years in the Senate. In 2023, we couldn’t do much because of the budget cycle, so effectively, this is the first full year of representation.

    “I thought it was important to show gratitude to my constituents by helping them to fish rather than giving them fish. All these items can be used to generate income,” he said.

    Earlier, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa commended Senator Adegbonmire for his laudable initiative of giving back to the people who entrusted him with their mandate to represent them at the National Assembly.

    Represented by his Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Babatunde Kolawole, the Ondo governor said the present administration believes that, in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, good governance must touch lives in meaningful ways.

    Aiyedatiwa noted that programmes that create livelihood opportunities, enhance self-reliance, and prepare citizens for competitiveness align with this vision, adding that the initiative underscores a shared resolve to build a society where progress is inclusive.

    On his part, the Chairman of APC in the state, Engr Ade Adetimehin, said that the senator had distinguished himself beyond the traditional roles expected of a federal lawmaker.

    Adetimehin stressed that although legislators do not control federal funds, Adegbonmire has demonstrated rare commitment to delivering tangible benefits to his constituents.

    “It is evident that the senator has done amazingly well. The duty of a legislator is to make laws and provide oversight, but Senator Adegbonmire has gone far beyond that. Today, we have a Federal Teaching Hospital because of his efforts,” the APC chairman said.

    Adetimehin added that the senator’s commitment was inspired by the legacy of his father, the late High Chief Wunmi Adegbonmire, whom he described as a mentor and role model.

    He noted that the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, had on multiple occasions praised Adegbonmire’s intellect and legislative competence.

    Also, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, applauded the senator, saying he had shown uncommon commitment to service.

    “If he wants to do something, he will make sure he does it right. This is not just empowerment; it is mega empowerment. The items on display show that this is real and impactful,” the monarch said.

  • 2,000 elders benefit from Tunji-Ojo’s free medical outreach in Ondo, rally support for Tinubu

    2,000 elders benefit from Tunji-Ojo’s free medical outreach in Ondo, rally support for Tinubu

    No fewer than 2,000 elderly persons in Ondo State have benefited from a free medical outreach sponsored by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s healthcare intervention and grassroots engagement initiative ahead of the 2027 election.

    The outreach, which largely targeted senior citizens within the All Progressives Congress (APC), provided essential services including eye examinations, blood pressure and sugar checks, diabetes screening, basic treatments, and free medications—further boosting the ruling party’s presence among its core support base.

    Speaking at the event on Thursday, the leader of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum, Erastus Akeju, described the exercise as both a humanitarian effort and a strategic intervention to reinforce support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid.

    Akeju said the initiative was designed to bring healthcare closer to the people, especially at a time when many elderly citizens are struggling with economic hardship. He revealed that the programme aims to reach “at least 2,000 elderly residents in each senatorial district,” noting that it followed extensive planning within the elders’ forum.

    He commended Tunji-Ojo for his “unwavering political loyalty and commitment to the welfare of the people,” saying the minister’s interventions are crucial to consolidating the APC’s grassroots structure. The party stalwarts also described the medical outreach as a reflection of the minister’s humanitarian disposition and steadfast support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid.

    “Our elders are the foundation upon which our victories stand. Their sacrifices, wisdom, and endurance shaped our journey. It is therefore both a moral duty and a political responsibility to prioritise their health and dignity,” he said.

    The Secretary of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum, Chief Ebenezer Alabi, noted that many elderly APC members had long neglected their health due to economic challenges, adding that the outreach renewed hope among the party’s senior supporters.

    He said a monitoring team had been constituted to ensure effective and transparent implementation.

    Earlier, the programme facilitator, Hon. Ademola Ijabiyi, urged beneficiaries to appreciate Tunji-Ojo’s continued support, citing the minister’s facilitation of jobs, assistance for monthly elders’ meetings, and various development initiatives across Ondo State.

    Read Also: Rivers APC lauds Tunji-Ojo for promoting 75,202 paramilitary officers

    Ijabiyi cited the monthly elders’ meetings and job opportunities facilitated by the minister and various development projects across Ondo state as evidence of his commitment to humanity.

    Also speaking, APC chieftain and National Chairman, Senior Citizen Centre, Abuja, Chief Ade Ayeni, noted that opinion leaders under his coordination had been working tirelessly to mobilize support for the APC, particularly towards securing President Tinubu’s reelection.

    A guest lecturer at the event, Dr. (Mrs.) Joy Eloho-Orji of the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, educated participants on healthy living in old age, stressing that ageing is a natural transition rather than a disease.

    She also advised elders on domestic safety precautions and urged political leaders to prioritise regular medical check-ups, including blood pressure and prostate screening.

    Dr. Orji further encouraged adherence to prescribed medications, adequate sleep, and avoidance of smoking and alcohol.

  • Farmer debunks allegations of land grabbing, cultism in Ondo

    Farmer debunks allegations of land grabbing, cultism in Ondo

    Farmer and businessman, Ayoola Fadayomi, has refuted allegations he was involved in land grabbing, cultism, and sponsoring attacks on residents of Igba community in Ondo East council of Ondo State or anywhere else.

    The businessman, in a statement, dismissed the claims as baseless fabrications aimed at discrediting him and destabilising the peaceful community. He further noted that the plot was politically motivated, orchestrated by a certain individual, who is attempting to twist fact and mislead the unsuspecting public.

    He clarified that he was not involved in any illegal sale of land, instead, he accused his detractors of landgrabbing.

    Read Also: National Identity: Unresolved indigene-settler issue threat to Nigeria’s unity, says Kukah

    Fadayomi emphasised that the real issue lies in a criminal and unlawful activities of a person who sets people up by raising false petition to the Police alleging attack on his person.

    He said: “I found it irresponsible for anyone to drag my name to any land dispute in Igba, I don’t have any land in that part of the state so what could have been my interest in Igba? This is a serious allegation to malign my personality, and I assure them this will never work.’’

    Nigeria is governed by law and order, and no one, no matter how highly placed, is above the law.

    “I have also informed our peace loving and highly revered Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, intervene and probe this wild allegations against me without prejudice so as to prove my innocence. I have also taken a step further by informing my legal team to sue for defamation for maligning and damaging my reputation. Their attack on me is totally unacceptable, irresponsible, reprehensible, and  preposterous.”

  • Gbenga Gold hosts white party in Ondo

    Gbenga Gold hosts white party in Ondo

    On Wednesday, November 26, the entire Ondo town in Ondo State was agog as celebrity MC, Gbenga Gold hosted a white party event that packed several entertainers in attendance.

    The event, which is the 2025 edition of his annual music cum comedy event, held at Citywalk 2.0 in Ondo town amidst pomp and glee.

    Read Also: RED|For Africa secures two major wins at the 2025 Nigerian Marketing Awards

    The event also had the presence of several dignitaries and creative heads in Ondo state. Some of the personalities spotted at the event include Stanley Nzerem, CEO Gozak Nigeria Limited, Babajide Fadoju, former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Helidiiam Couture boss, Mrs Mercy Ejibunu-Fadoju, World Guinness Record Attempter, Caroline Ejibunu and federal lawmaker, Hon. Makinde Abiola Peter.

    The event, which kicked off at exactly 8pm had MC Sunky marshaling the activities at the event while several musicians, dancers and other creatives took turns to thrill guests at the event which extended till the wee hours of Thursday morning.

    Other performers that shone at the event were Dativa, Oruma, Mc Wisdom, TY Star and Ayannifemi.

  • Aiyedatiwa unveils ambulances to strengthen emergency medical response in Ondo

    Aiyedatiwa unveils ambulances to strengthen emergency medical response in Ondo

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has unveiled a fleet of ambulances for deployment across the state as part of efforts by his administration to enhance healthcare delivery and improve pre-hospital emergency care. 

    Speaking at the flag-off of the State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System in Akure, Aiyedatiwa said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to transforming healthcare services in the state.

    Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor stressed that the new ambulance system would ensure timely assistance for victims of accidents and other life-threatening conditions.

    “Medical emergencies such as road traffic accidents, medical crises, obstetric complications, and other life-threatening situations occur daily. Because they are often unforeseen, many valuable lives are lost due to the absence of timely help.

    “In line with our OUR EASE development agenda, our administration has resolved to tackle these challenges, ensuring that the lives of our people – regardless of status – are preserved from preventable deaths,” he said. 

    Aiyedatiwa noted that the government will bear the cost of transportation to health facilities and treatment of medical emergencies for the first 48 hours through the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System under the Federal Ministry of Health.

    He added that a functional 24-hour call centre has also been established.

    “As part of our commitment to the survival and well-being of our people, the State Emergency Call Center has been reactivated with multi-million-naira communication gadgets for timely emergency reporting and dispatch.

    “This is a functional 24/7 call and dispatch center, and over 100 frontline emergency responders have been trained to effectively handle medical emergencies. The training will be continuous to expose our personnel to modern emergency care techniques,” he added. 

    He lauded the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS), private hospital operators, and ambulance owners for partnering with the state to strengthen healthcare delivery.

    Remarking, Director-General of NEMSAS, Hajia Fatima Ciroma, said the scheme would ease the pressure on hospitals by ensuring that patients receive critical care before arriving at health facilities.

    Ciroma noted that the programme includes a fleet of Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances, tricycle (Keke) ambulances, and highly skilled medical personnel who will respond to road accidents, domestic incidents, obstetric emergencies, and other critical conditions.

    She also highlighted the introduction of an enhanced communication system designed to improve coordination among hospitals, emergency responders, and ambulance personnel for prompt intervention.

    The Ondo State Commandant of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Samuel Ibitoye, slauted the initiative as a crucial component of road safety management. 

    He commended the governor for integrating the state into the national emergency medical services framework and for restoring the prominence of the Ondo State Emergency Medical Services Agency (ODEMSA), once a national reference point in emergency care.

  • Repentant cultists surrender arms to police in Ondo

    Repentant cultists surrender arms to police in Ondo

    The Ondo State Police Command has achieved a major peace breakthrough in Ondo town, the headquarters of Ondo West Local Government Area, as several repentant cultists voluntarily surrendered their weapons to the police.

    Ondo town had, in recent months, recorded violent clashes among rival cult groups in a series of supremacy battles that left casualties in their wake.

    The latest truce, driven by a disarmament initiative launched by the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, forms part of broader efforts to curb violent crime and restore stability in communities long troubled by cult-related attacks.

    The command’s spokesman, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Akure, said the initiative reflects the police command’s proactive strategy to rid the state of miscreants and reinforce public safety.

    Ayanlade revealed that some of the individuals who surrendered had been on the police watchlist for their roles in previous violent clashes, including incidents that claimed at least eight lives in Ondo city.

    “The police will intensify efforts to encourage others still in hiding to surrender,” he said.

    He explained that the intervention brought two long-feuding factions together for reconciliation, with both groups agreeing to end years of hostility and embrace peaceful coexistence.

    According to him, several repentant members expressed relief at exiting the cult lifestyle, admitting that fear of arrest had forced many to flee the state until the disarmament initiative provided a safe and supervised path for their return.

    During the exercise, the police recovered 17 arms and 12 rounds of ammunition, including locally fabricated weapons and Beretta pistols – representing a significant step toward reducing the circulation of illegal firearms in the area.

    Ayanlade said CP Lawal commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Ekimogun youths, and the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Adesimbo Kiladejo, for their support in facilitating the disarmament process.

    He urged others still in hiding to surrender, warning that those who continue to engage in criminal activities would be tracked down and prosecuted.

    The police spokesman added that CP Lawal, alongside senior officers and members of the Ondo Ekimogun Youths under the “End Miscreants in Ondo” initiative, personally supervised the arms surrender.

    He said all repentant individuals will be enrolled in counselling and mentorship programmes as part of their rehabilitation, reaffirming that anyone who renounces cultism, surrenders arms, and demonstrates good conduct will be reintegrated into society.

    The command reiterated its commitment to strengthening community engagement and sustaining people-oriented policing to ensure lasting peace and security across Ondo state.