Category: PM News

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has smashed two major cocaine cartels behind six United Kingdom-bound drug consignments, arresting the alleged mastermind, Alhaji Hammed Taofeek Ode, and five other suspects in a series of intelligence-led operations across Lagos State.

According to the agency, the operations, which spanned over three weeks, uncovered a total of 20.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed in the walls of stainless cups, body cream, and hair gel containers. The NDLEA also destroyed 24,897 kilograms of cannabis (skunk) in forest raids in Edo and Osun States.

Major Busts at Lagos Airport

The agency noted that the breakthrough began on September 16, 2025, when operatives at the export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, intercepted 174 parcels of cocaine weighing 13.4 kilograms, concealed in cocoa butter body cream containers.

Further investigations led to the identification and eventual arrest of Alhaji Hammed Taofeek Ode, who posed as a businessman and real estate developer.

Ode, who reportedly lived in several European countries, including the United Kingdom, Austria, France, and Germany, admitted ownership of the seized drugs during interrogation, claiming he purchased them for over ?150 million.

In similar operations, NDLEA operatives foiled five additional cocaine export attempts to the UK. The series of arrests began on September 26, following the seizure of 2.1 kilograms of cocaine concealed in hair cream containers.

The subsequent arrest of a cargo agent led to the capture of Smith David Korede, a furniture maker, at his residence in Mafoluku, Oshodi, where another 1.4 kilograms of cocaine destined for the UK was recovered. Two more UK-bound consignments were seized on October 2, leading to the arrest of Ogunbiyi Oluseye Taiwo and Popoola Francis Olumuyiwa. The cocaine, weighing 2.6 kilograms, was hidden in crayfish packages and stainless cups.

Other Major Seizures Nationwide

In a related operation, NDLEA officers intercepted a shipment of 6.3 kilograms of ‘Loud’, a potent strain of cannabis, smuggled from Thailand and concealed in bedsheets and hibiscus flowers.

In Kano State, a joint NDLEA-Customs operation along the Danbatta-Daura Road led to the arrest of Sa’adu Ali, 38, and the seizure of 290,450 pills of Tramadol and Pregabalin on October 2.

In Lagos, notorious dealer John Igbe, alias SammyBless, was arrested at Lekki with 550 grams of Colorado, while three others were nabbed in Mushin with 109 kilograms of skunk, 20 bottles of codeine syrup, and 2 kilograms of nitrous oxide. Additional recoveries included 3,700 bottles of codeine and 550,000 expired diclofenac tablets at the Trade Fair Complex, Alaba.

Similarly, NDLEA officers in Kwara arrested Salisu Abubakar, 25, with 27,700 Tramadol pills, while in Kaduna, Blessing Ovaka, 50, was caught with 498.5 kilograms of skunk, and Dahiru Salisu, 27, was arrested with 34,180 Tramadol capsules along Kaduna-Zaria Road.

In Ogun State, operatives raided Isheri, Obafemi Owode LGA, seizing 112 kilograms of skunk and 16 grams of Tramadol. In Osun, three suspects were arrested in the Owena/Ijesha forest reserve, where officers destroyed 14,000 kilograms of cannabis on 5.6 hectares of farmland.

In Edo State, NDLEA officers intercepted a vehicle loaded with 244.5 kilograms of skunk at Igbanke and later destroyed 10,897 kilograms of cannabis on four farms in Ugbodo forest, arresting two suspects.

Across Kogi and the FCT, patrol teams intercepted 3.27 kilograms of ‘Loud’ and 25.5 kilograms of skunk, leading to the arrests of Tobi Odubote, 34, and Ismail Abdurrahim, 32, respectively.

However, Chairman and Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), commended the officers for their professionalism and dedication.

He praised the operatives of the MMIA, DOGI, Kano, Edo, Kwara, Kaduna, Ogun, Osun, Kogi, and FCT commands for their resilience and contribution to the agency’s ongoing drug control efforts.

‘We’ll continue to target and dismantle every identified drug cartel-from the mules to the dealers and up to their leadership,’ Marwa said. ‘Every arrest, seizure, and forfeited asset represents innocent lives saved and communities protected, both in Nigeria and abroad.’

Media personality and former Big Brother Naija winner, Mercy Eke, has dedicated her win during the forth season of the show, to all young women.

Mercy, while speaking with BellaNaija, claimed that her win helped pave the way for more women to win the reality TV show. Mercy who was the first female winner of the Big Brother Naija reality show, claimed her big win in 2019.

She also opened up on her win, revealing that she was prepared and confident even before the start of the show.

‘I came into the show prepared. I was ready. And when I won the show, I did it for all the young women who have been told that they can’t. I did it for all of us,’ she stated.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has pledged to deport over 750,000 illegal migrants if her party returns to power, unveiling a bold, US-style ‘Removals Force’ as the centrepiece of her new Borders Plan.

The proposed unit, inspired by Donald Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), would be tasked with hunting down and deporting undocumented migrants in record numbers. The move, described by party insiders as ‘Britain’s toughest border policy yet’, marks a dramatic turn in Badenoch’s strategy as she arrives in Manchester for a make-or-break Conservative Party conference.

The seven-point Borders Plan, announced Saturday night, comes after Badenoch confirmed that a future Tory government would withdraw the UK from both the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (ECAT).

According to her team, leaving both treaties would ‘remove legal blockades’ that have long prevented deportations and enable the government to act decisively.

‘We must tackle the scourge of illegal immigration into Britain and secure our borders,’ Badenoch said. ‘That is why the Conservatives are setting out a serious and comprehensive new plan to end this crisis.’

Under her plan, the new Removals Force will replace the Home Office’s immigration enforcement teams, with funding doubled from £800 million to £1.6 billion. Its mandate: increase deportations from 34,000 to 150,000 a year – reaching 750,000 by the end of a parliamentary term.

The Tories say the initiative will be financed by shutting down costly asylum hotels and cutting into the £4.76 billion annual asylum budget.

Other highlights of the Borders Plan include:

A total ban on asylum claims for illegal entrants.

An end to legal aid and judicial reviews in immigration cases.

Deportation of all foreign criminals within a week.

New return deals with foreign governments to fast-track removals.

Visa restrictions and aid cuts for countries that refuse to take back their nationals.

Party strategists argue that banning asylum for illegal entrants would send ‘a clear message’ that no one who arrives unlawfully can ever gain protection in the UK a deterrent effect similar to that seen under President Trump’s hardline border policies.

Still, critics have slammed the proposal as political desperation.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, Minister for EU Relations, dismissed Badenoch’s announcement as ‘an isolationist fantasy.’

‘Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch offer the same fake fix – withdraw from the ECHR and pretend the problem disappears,’ he said. ‘It’s the lazy politics of those out of ideas and out of their depth.’

However, Tory insiders insist the plan is ‘serious and deliverable.’ One source said:

‘We’ve spent our time in opposition forensically analysing every element of our immigration system. This isn’t about slogans – it’s about real reform.’

With Reform UK currently leading the Conservatives two-to-one in the polls, Badenoch’s hardline turn on immigration appears aimed at reclaiming her party’s right-wing base and perhaps, reviving her dwindling political momentum.

Nigerian media personality Daddy Freeze, has spoken about religion and what made him stop attending religious activities.

The controversial critic, while speaking with Chude Jideonwo, opened up on how he was treated by the church during his divorce. He revealed that he felt rejected during a difficult time of his life.

‘Divorcees and separated women are ostracized by the church. And I believe that’s one of the reasons why Osinachi died. The church is not going to chase you for divorcing, but are they going to allow you to be the lead singer?,’ he stated.

Daddy Freeze went on to stress his claim, stating that women are usually stigmatized by religious bodies when they are divorced or separated.

‘It happened to me. I was very cool with my pastor then. When I was going through my divorce, it was one of the things that drew me away from the church. My pastor said, ‘Yeah, you can come to church, but you know you’re going to sit at the back!. I’m going through a divorce and getting married to somebody else, so that means I can’t bring the person to this church again? Then I remembered John 4, the woman at the well who had had five husbands and was living with one who wasn’t her husband. That is so powerful. I’ve only divorced once,’ he explained.

Usman Lawan Baba, infamously known as Yellow, a notorious kidnapper and armed robber, has confessed to his crimes in police custody in Kano. He named several accomplices and partners in crime, two years after kidnapping and robbing a village head in the state.

The 27-year-old self-confessed criminal hails from Dakatsalle, Zango Ranka, Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State.

Kano State Police Command spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, revealed that Usman was arrested on 2 October 2025 in connection with the kidnapping and armed robbery of the Village Head of Garun Babba, Alhaji Abdulmumini Mudi Zakari, aged 41. The incident occurred on 9 August 2023.

During the incident, the village head was abducted and robbed of ?2,750,000, a Tecno Kevo 4 handset, and a wristwatch.

However, the relentless efforts of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad led to the rescue of the victim as the suspects attempted to flee the area.

Usman Lawan Baba confessed to the crime and admitted receiving ?6,000 as his share of the stolen money. He also named his accomplices, including:

Bello Kici-Kici of Falgore Village, Doguwa Local Government Area, who was neutralised by police during a kidnapping operation in Jigawa State. An AK-47 rifle was recovered at the scene.

Mallam Sale of Gezawa Local Government Area, who was neutralised by police during an armed robbery incident in Gezawa, Kano State.

Ruwa Shehu of Gafan Village, Bebeji Local Government Area, currently serving time in a correctional facility for a kidnapping-related offence.

Other accomplices, including Ibrahim Gwanja, Sule Naye, and an unidentified individual, have also been linked to the case and are under further investigation.

The suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the public for their continued support and cooperation in the fight against crime. He also praised the outstanding efforts of the operatives involved in the arrest.

Bakori reiterated the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Kano State.

He encouraged the public to report suspicious activities or emergencies via the following emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, or 09029292926.

Manchester City extended their unbeaten run to seven games in all competitions after a 1-0 victory over Brentford at the GTech Community Stadium on Sunday.

Erling Haaland’s ninth-minute strike made the difference, as Pep Guardiola’s men dug deep to secure all three points before the international break.

The Norwegian striker, fresh from a goal drought that stretched over two games, needed less than ten minutes to stamp his mark. A long ball from Josko Gvardiol split Brentford’s backline, and Haaland outmuscled Sepp van den Berg before drilling a low drive past Caoihim Kelleher to give City the lead.

That early breakthrough set the tone for a first half that was one-way traffic. Phil Foden, Tijjani Reijnders, and Oscar Bobb kept Brentford pinned in their half with wave after wave of attacks. Foden saw a close-range effort blocked by Kelleher, while Reijnders tested the keeper again with a late volley that demanded quick reflexes.

However, City’s momentum took a hit midway through the first half when Rodri pulled up clutching his hamstring in the 21st minute. The Spaniard’s substitution raised concerns for Guardiola, who watched his side’s fluidity dip slightly afterward.

Brentford found a lifeline early in the second half when Josko Gvardiol misjudged a long ball, allowing Igor Thiago a clear run on goal. But goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, untested in the first half, reacted sharply to deny the striker and preserve City’s narrow lead.

From then on, it became a tactical chess match. Guardiola’s men controlled possession but struggled to find a killer second goal, while Brentford pressed high, hoping for a defensive lapse. Michael Kayode came close with a header in the 58th minute, but his effort flew over.

As the game drew to a nervy close, Kevin Schade nearly punished Donnarumma for a moment of hesitation in the 89th minute, the ball deflecting wide to City’s relief.

When the final whistle blew, relief was the overriding emotion in sky blue. City’s first-half dominance had faded into a defensive grind, but the job was done.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has urged members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) 38 Regular Course to remain steadfast in loyalty, unity, and patriotism as they continue to contribute to national peace and security.

Musa gave the charge on Saturday night in Abuja at a cocktail party organised by the Course 38 Association to mark its annual reunion.

He described the event as more than a social gathering, saying it symbolised the enduring bond of comradeship forged through shared experiences of military training and national service.

‘This evening is not merely a celebration but an affirmation of the strong ties that unite us.

‘Our regular course is not just a class, it is a family bound by sacrifice, duty and service to our great nation,’ he said.

The CDS commended the newly elected executive of the association for their commitment to sustaining its ideals and charged them to consolidate on the solid foundation laid by their predecessors.

He also applauded the outgoing leadership led by Maj.-Gen. Gadonwa for steering the affairs of the group effectively and fostering cohesion among members.

Musa paid tribute to fallen colleagues, describing their service and sacrifice as a guiding light that must continue to inspire those still in uniform.

He urged members of the course to use their association as a platform for mentorship, professional excellence, and constructive engagement with younger officers across the Armed Forces.

The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has announced that its troops have destroyed eight illegal refineries, arrested several suspects involved in illicit activities, and recovered about 18,000 litres of stolen crude oil in the Niger Delta.

The Army also reported that several pieces of equipment used by the criminals-including receivers, ovens, drums, and pipes-were destroyed.

The Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday evening and sent to newsmen.

According to Lt. Col. Danjuma, the achievement was realised during a two-week raid of black spots across three states in the region using both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operations.

The statement reads, ‘Determined to end the cycle of oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and associated crimes in the Niger Delta Region, troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have scaled up both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operations across the region.

‘These efforts led to the successful deactivation of eight artisanal refineries, the arrest of several suspected oil thieves, and the confiscation of over 18,000 litres of stolen crude oil.

‘The operations, which were conducted alongside other security agencies between 21 September and 5 October 2025, have reinforced the Division’s quest to establish a safer and more conducive atmosphere for legitimate socio-economic activities to thrive in the Niger Delta Region.’

The operations in Rivers State, around Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West Local Government Area, resulted in a newly constructed illegal refining site being dismantled by the troops. Other destroyed items included receivers, ovens, drums, and pipes, as well as over 3,500 litres of stolen crude oil recovered. Additionally, acting on credible intelligence, troops intercepted a red Mercedes-Benz vacuum truck.

The truck, with registration number AHD 925 XA, was loaded with over 3,200 litres of stolen crude and was intercepted along Aba Road in Oyigbo Local Government Area. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on sighting the troops.

Similarly, clearance operations conducted along the fringes of Imo River resulted in the deactivation of an illegal refining site, with three drum pots, two drum receivers, and over 2,000 litres of stolen crude stockpiled in sacks recovered. Other seizures were made at Odogwa in Etche Local Government Area (Rivers State), Obeama Uzomiri Waterside in Oyigbo LGA, and Obiafor Oil Field in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA.

In Akwa Ibom State, the Army said its troops intercepted two Toyota Camry vehicles with registration numbers ANA 495 CK and AKD 233 EQ conveying 120 nylon bags filled with over 3,600 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil along Ikot Okoro, Abak LGA.

Two suspects were apprehended in connection with the seizures. Meanwhile, in Bayelsa State, around Biseni Community along Kemezia Road, at an abandoned house No. 70 in Yenagoa LGA, troops uncovered over 950 litres of stolen petroleum products.

The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, commended the troops for their resilience.

Emekah urged criminal elements in the region to turn over a new leaf and engage in legitimate businesses, stating that the Division under his watch will ensure ‘our forests remain green and waters blue, with zero tolerance for any form of economic sabotage in the region.’

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has approved an immediate extension of the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years and increased the years of service from 35 to 40.

The announcement was made on Sunday during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti.

In recognition of their dedication, the governor also rewarded outstanding teachers across the state with cash gifts totalling N46 million.

Governor Oyebanji said the decision to extend retirement and service years aligns with his administration’s commitment to reposition the education sector and retain experienced educators. He added that a committee will be established to oversee the implementation, ensuring that only physically fit teachers benefit from the extension.

Additionally, the governor announced an upward review of allowances for Science Teachers and Heads of Departments, as well as the immediate payment of 2019 leave bonus arrears.

‘Teachers are the foundation upon which the future of our state is built. This is part of our shared prosperity agenda to enhance their welfare and motivate them,’ he stated.

He also reiterated his administration’s dedication to improving the teaching and learning environment and assured continued prioritisation of teachers’ welfare.

World football body, FIFA, has appointed Chadian referee Alhadi Mahamat to take charge of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.

The match – a must-win for the Super Eagles – will take place at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday, October 10, 2025, with kickoff slated for 6pm local time (5pm in Nigeria).

Mahamat, who officiated Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo last month, will again be assisted by an all-Chadian crew, Bogola Issa (first assistant), Moussa Hafiz (second assistant), and Abdelkerim Ousmane (fourth official).

FIFA also named Kenyan official Alice Kimani as referee assessor, while William Shongwe from eSwatini will serve as match commissioner.

Currently sitting three points behind group leaders Benin Republic and South Africa, Nigeria must secure victory to keep their qualification hopes alive for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The Lesotho clash will be followed by another decisive tie – a home fixture against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on October 14. Egyptian referee Omar Amin Mohamed will handle that encounter, assisted by compatriots Mahmoud Aboulergal and Ali Teleb.

FIFA recently handed Nigeria a boost after sanctioning South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2-0 win over Lesotho in March – overturning the result and awarding a 3-0 victory to Lesotho.

That decision has reshaped the group standings, with Benin and South Africa tied on 14 points, while Nigeria and Rwanda trail with 11 points each.

With six points still up for grabs, Nigeria’s fate remains firmly in their hands – but only back-to-back wins will guarantee a spot at next summer’s global showpiece.