Category: PM News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian military has recorded fresh successes in its ongoing nationwide offensive against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, neutralising scores of terrorists, arresting dozens of suspects and rescuing several kidnapped victims within one week.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) disclosed the development on Friday, saying troops operating across multiple theatres sustained coordinated land and air operations between May 28 and June 4, dealing significant blows to criminal networks across the country.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, said the military offensive targeted terrorists, kidnappers, gunrunners, economic saboteurs and other criminal elements threatening national security.

In the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai arrested a suspected kidnapper, 10 terrorist collaborators and informants, while also rescuing five persons who escaped from terrorist enclaves. Troops further neutralised a terrorist and recovered ammunition, communication devices and other operational items.

In the North-West, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma eliminated three terrorists, apprehended a notorious terrorist kingpin and arrested additional suspects linked to terrorist activities. Security forces also recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition and dismantled several terrorist camps.

One of the most significant breakthroughs was recorded under Operation Savannah Shield, where troops successfully repelled an ambush in Niger State, neutralising scores of terrorists during the encounter. Security operatives also recovered 15 motorcycles and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, while a wanted terrorist informant linked to previous attacks in Borgu Local Government Area was arrested.

In Kaduna State, troops of Operation Enduring Peace rescued five kidnapped passengers and evacuated two injured victims for urgent medical treatment.

Similarly, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke operating across Kogi, Nasarawa and Taraba states neutralised a terrorist, arrested 10 suspects and rescued two kidnap victims. Recovered exhibits included an AK-47 rifle, magazines, explosives, motorcycles and vehicles.

The military also recorded successes in the South-South region, where troops of Operation Delta Safe arrested seven suspected kidnappers and foiled planned abductions. Security operatives further apprehended suspects linked to the murder of a farmer during a failed kidnap operation.

In the South-East, troops of Operation Udo Ka arrested five suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), while successfully rescuing village chiefs who had been held hostage in Ebonyi State.

Maj.-Gen. Onoja said the operations had significantly degraded the operational capabilities of criminal groups and improved security across affected communities.

He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain the momentum of ongoing operations until those held captive are rescued and criminal elements are brought to justice.

The defence spokesman also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, noting that timely information remains critical to the success of military operations nationwide.

He added that the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, had commended troops for their courage, professionalism and commitment in the fight against insecurity across the country.

The finals of the 6th edition of the Abuja National Music Competition have been held over the weekend. Participants from several Schools from the FCT and other states competed in various categories of the finals through vocal and instrumental performances, with winners carting home cash and other prizes.

Jaja Soibifaa and Iwugo Michael, two students of Premiere Academy, Lugbe, Abuja, emerged Star winners of the day as they were adjudged overall winners in the Vocal and Piano Categories, with each winning the N250,000 cash prize for their respective categories.

While Jaja Soibifaa carted home the Star Prize in the Vocal Category, Iwugo Michael defeated other competitors in the Piano Category.

The Abuja National Music Competition is aimed at fostering creativity among students aged 6-18 and dedicated to reviving the authenticity of Nigerian music by showcasing exceptional vocal and instrumental talents from primary and secondary schools across the country.

This year’s edition aimed to discover, support, and celebrate young musicians who demonstrate outstanding artistic mastery, while serving as a platform for exposure, promoting music education and performance across Nigeria.

It also afforded the students an opportunity to appreciate how healthy competition inspires creativity, with participants benefitting from professional mentorship, in addition to opportunities to perform before an expert jury of renowned music professionals and receive recognition and awards for their dedication and skill.

Speaking on the outstanding feats by Premiere Academy representatives in the Competition, the School’s Music Instructor and team Lead, Mr. Israel Olorundare, said the performances have once again showcased the musical excellence and talent of Premiere Academy students beyond the four walls of the academy.

Olorundare thanked the School Management and other members of staff for their dedication, support and guidance that contributed significantly to the outstanding achievement.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Operatives of Kano Police Command arrested 187 suspects engaged in various criminal activities, including armed robbery and drug peddling during a three-day coordinated operations across the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Adamu Bakori hinted this to journalists during a press briefing at the Bompai Police headquarters.

Mr. Bakori said, “Kano’s role as a commercial and cultural hub requires a policing approach that is proactive, intelligence-led, and closely aligned with communities.”

In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Kano State Police Command has intensified targeted operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, intercepting weapons, and disrupting drug supply chains.

According to him, acting on credible intelligence and community reports, the Command conducted a coordinated clearance operation across all 44 Local Government Areas.

“The three-day operation ran from Friday 5th June to Sunday 7th June 2026, with a focus on identified black spots, criminal hideouts, and drug distribution points,” he added.

Mr. Bakori said, “the outcomes underscore both the scale of the challenge and the effectiveness of our strategy.”

During the operations police arrested 187 suspects, including suspected thugs, drug peddlers, and persons found with offensive weapons.

All suspects are undergoing investigation and will be prosecuted where evidence warrants

Police also recovered 270 dangerous weapons, including knives, cutlasses, clubs, and other implements used to perpetrate violence.

Police seized a substantial quantity of suspected illicit substances, including Cannabis Sativa, Exol tablets, and the lethal mixture known locally as “Suck and Die”.

These seizures directly reduce the capacity of criminal groups to harm law-abiding citizens and destabilize communities, across the state.

The Command’s Operation Kukan Kura has remained active statewide, as it has enhanced visibility policing, reduced response time to distress calls, and denied criminal elements the space to regroup in flashpoints.

The Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, (VCRU) recently launched by the Commissioner of Police, has sharpened tactical response to armed violence and gang activity, as its intelligence and rapid-deployment functions have improved the police ability to act swiftly on actionable information.

Mr. Bakori insisted that no form of criminality will be entertained in Kano State, as the Command will continue to apply the law firmly and fairly against thuggery, drug trafficking, and violent offending.

According to him, available data and feedback from communities indicate that crime is reducing across several areas of the State.

The progress, he said, is the result of sustained operational pressure, better intelligence flow, and the professionalism of our officers.

Mr. Bakori appreciated the Kano State Government for its consistent support and cooperation, which have strengthened our operational capacity.

He thanked the people of Kano for their trust, vigilance, and willingness to share information. Public support is the bedrock of policing, and it is making the difference we are now seeing.

He urged the public to continue reporting suspicious movements and criminal activity to the nearest Police formation or through our emergency lines.

“All information will be treated confidentially and acted upon promptly,” he added.

The Kano Police boss insisted that: “To those who profit from violence and illicit drugs: Kano is no longer a safe operating environment. The 187 suspects in custody will face due process. The Command will maintain sustained pressure through raids, intelligence operations, and prosecution until criminality becomes untenable.

“The Kano State Police Command remains focused on protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and sustaining the downward trend in crime. Operation Kukan Kura will continue, the VCRU will be further strengthened, and our engagement with communities will be deepened.”

The Edo State Police Command has uncovered an elaborate kidnapping hoax masterminded by Mrs. Oluchi Ugbowan and her accomplices in a bid to extort 50 million from her family, leading to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of a firearm used to produce fake ransom videos.

According to the police, Mr. Ugbowan reported that on May 28, 2026, he received a call from an unidentified number demanding 50 million for his wife’s release.

The investigation led to the arrest of 28-year-old Israel Ability at Ramat Park, Benin City. During the operation, officers recovered the mobile phone belonging to the purported victim from the suspect.

Police said that during interrogation, Ability confessed that he had been recruited by Mrs. Ugbowan to act as a negotiator and communicate ransom demands to her family while presenting her as a kidnap victim.

The breakthrough prompted investigators to extend their operation to Delta State, where Mrs. Ugbowan was eventually tracked and arrested on June 5 at a hotel in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

According to the command, the suspect allegedly admitted during questioning that she staged her own kidnapping as part of a plan to obtain money from her relatives.

Police investigations revealed that the residence served as the location where videos purportedly showing the victim in captivity were produced and circulated to family members to support the ransom demands.

The command further disclosed that Uwadia’s 18-year-old son, Chibuzor Ochukwudem, allegedly participated in the scheme and was the individual seen in the videos pointing a firearm at Mrs. Ugbowan’s head to create the impression that she was being held by kidnappers.

All four suspects have since been arrested in connection with the alleged conspiracy.

A search conducted at the premises resulted in the recovery of an automatic pump-action gun believed to have been used during the production of the ransom videos.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for what he described as a thorough and professional investigation that exposed the alleged deception.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to treating every reported kidnapping case with urgency and seriousness, noting that significant resources are often deployed to rescue victims and apprehend criminals.

The police commissioner also warned members of the public against engaging in fake kidnapping schemes, stressing that such actions constitute serious criminal offences and divert security resources away from genuine victims in need of assistance.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice. False kidnapping claims not only create unnecessary panic but also undermine efforts to combat real security challenges,” he said.

The Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general election, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has felicitated the First Lady of Oyo State, Her Excellency, Mrs Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a virtuous woman whose compassion and humanitarian disposition have positively touched many lives across the state.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, Ajadi congratulated the First Lady on attaining another year, praying that God would grant her more wisdom, sound health and abundant grace to continue serving humanity.

“On behalf of my family, political associates and supporters across Oyo Central Senatorial District, I heartily congratulate Her Excellency, Mrs Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, on the occasion of her birthday. I pray that Almighty God grants her sufficient grace, excellent health, long life and continued happiness. May her new age usher in greater fulfilment and more opportunities to impact humanity,” Ajadi said.

The renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist noted that the First Lady has remained a dependable partner to Governor Seyi Makinde and has consistently demonstrated a passion for the welfare of women, children and vulnerable members of society.

According to him, Mrs Makinde’s humility, motherly virtues and commitment to social causes have made her an inspiration to many families and young women in Oyo State and beyond.

“Her Excellency has exemplified the virtues of compassion, humility and selfless service. Through various humanitarian and advocacy initiatives, she has continued to complement the efforts of the Oyo State Government in promoting the welfare of women, children and the less privileged. Her dedication to humanity deserves commendation and celebration,” he stated.

Ajadi also acknowledged the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, whom he described as one of Nigeria’s most progressive governors, noting that the administration has continued to record remarkable achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agribusiness and economic development since assuming office in 2019.

He said the governor and his wife have continued to provide exemplary leadership and partnership aimed at improving the quality of life of residents of the state.

“Governor Seyi Makinde has shown that governance is about delivering tangible dividends to the people. The support and encouragement of the First Lady have no doubt contributed to the successes recorded by the administration. Together, they have demonstrated commitment to the development and prosperity of Oyo State,” Ajadi added.

The APM senatorial candidate further prayed for divine protection and strength for the First Lady, expressing optimism that she would continue to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the state and the nation.

Mrs Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, wife of Governor Seyi Makinde, has over the years championed initiatives aimed at promoting social inclusion, family values and support for vulnerable groups. Governor Makinde, who was first elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, has overseen major investments in roads, education, healthcare, security and economic expansion, earning recognition within and outside Oyo State.

Ajadi wished the First Lady many more years of fruitful service and prayed that her life would continue to be marked by peace, prosperity and God’s unfailing favour.

By Oluwaseun Nubi

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Tuesday sealed the Lagos office of CASCO Electronics Co. Ltd. over alleged refusal to honour regulatory summons and compliance directives issued in connection with a consumer complaint

Mrs Olubunmi Otti, South-West Zonal Coordinator, FCCPC, said during the enforcement that the action followed a complaint lodged with the commission on Jan. 16, 2025, concerning the sale of an allegedly defective solar battery.

She said the commission began an investigation and subsequently invited the company on several occasions to respond to the allegations.

According to Otti, CASCO Electronics failed to honour the invitations, a summons and a compliance notice issued pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), 2018.

She said the compliance notice outlined the nature of the alleged violation, the remedial steps required, the timeline for compliance and the consequences of non-compliance.

“I would like to invite this undertaking, CASCO Electronics, to come before the commission to answer questions. CASCO Electronics refused.

“Again, the commission issued a summons and subsequently a compliance notice, but the company still refused to appear before the commission,” she said.

Otti said the commission’s action was based on Section 150(4)(a) of the FCCPA, 2018, which empowers the FCCPC to seal premises where an undertaking fails to comply with a compliance notice.

“Consequently, in exercise of the powers of the FCCPC under Section 150 of the FCCPA 2018, the commission has today proceeded to seal these premises.

“This enforcement action is not punitive in the first instance, but protective and corrective,” she said.

She said the premises would remain sealed until the commission was satisfied that the alleged breach had been remedied.

“The sealing will remain in force until the commission is satisfied that the prior breach has been fully remedied, at which point a compliance certificate will be issued under Section 150(3) of the FCCPA 2018,” Otti said.

She advised consumers to exercise caution when purchasing products and to always obtain receipts and transaction records.

“We urge consumers to ensure they buy from reputable organisations, collect their receipts and follow due process before committing their money,” Otti said.

She also urged businesses to respond promptly to correspondence from regulatory agencies.

“When you receive a letter from the FCCPC or any regulatory agency, you should appear and cooperate.

“The FCCPC is not against any business in Nigeria, but we want businesses to operate ethically so that consumers are satisfied while businesses continue to thrive,” she said.

Reacting to the development, President of the Industrial Material Dealers Association, Mr Opara Uchenna-Martins, said he could not fault the commission for carrying out its statutory responsibilities.

“I cannot stop the government from carrying out its duty. Whatever led to the FCCPC action, I know it has to do with protecting consumers, and consumers deserve to feel protected,” he said.

Uchenna-Martins said CASCO Electronics had built a reputation in the market but expressed concern over its alleged failure to respond to the commission’s invitations.

“CASCO is a reputable company, but I believe there may have been one or two issues. The problem, as I understand it, is that it refused to come and answer the FCCPC,” he said.

He urged traders and business owners to cooperate with government agencies whenever they receive official correspondence.

“Every businessman should comply whenever they receive letters from regulatory agencies.

“If any government agency contacts you, it is important to respond and resolve issues through the appropriate channels,” he said.

Uchenna-Martins added that the development was unfortunate and called for an early resolution of the matter.

“It is embarrassing for any company to face this kind of situation. I believe the matter should be resolved quickly and amicably,” he said.

(NAN)

Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy have made World Cup history as their official 2026 tournament anthem, ‘Dai Dai’, surpassed 100 million views just hours before the FIFA World Cup kicks off.

Released two weeks ago, the video has generated massive global attention ahead of the tournament, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

At 49, Shakira now holds the distinction of being the most successful music artist in World Cup history, having contributed songs and performances to four editions of the tournament.

She performed a remix of ‘Hips Don’t Lie’ at the 2006 Germany final, released ‘Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)’ for South Africa 2010, and ‘La La La’ for Brazil 2014.

The latter video has amassed 1.3 billion views, while Waka Waka has been viewed over 4.5 billion times, placing it among the world’s most-watched music videos.

With Burna Boy joining her on Dai Dai, Shakira has further amplified the tournament’s global and African appeal. The collaboration has already drawn strong engagement from fans worldwide, with the video expected to gain further traction as the World Cup begins.

Shakira described her connection with football as “unbreakable,” calling the World Cup “magical” and saying the 2026 edition would serve to unite people during a socially and politically sensitive period. She added that the song carries a message for young people, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite hardship.

The anthem’s release precedes Shakira’s performance at the World Cup 2026 final half-time show on July 19, where she will co-headline with Madonna and K-pop group BTS.

By Richard Elesho

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have launched a fresh attack on Odo Ere, the sleepy headquarters of Yagbawest Local Government Area, LGA, Kogi State, killing a security officer and abducting his daughter.

The breach happened on Monday evening, 8 June 2026, forcing residents to quickly retreat to their houses with fears enveloping their minds.

According to sources, the victim, simply identified as Mr. Ayo, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), was shot in the head during the attack.

A source confirmed that the victim was rushed to a medical facility but was declared dead on arrival. His remains have since been deposited in a mortuary as a “Brought-In-Dead” case.

The attackers reportedly abducted his first daughter before fleeing the area, further deepening fears among residents and people in nearby communities.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have yet to issue a statement on the incident.

The attack has heightened concerns over the growing insecurity in Yagba West and surrounding communities, with residents calling for urgent intervention by security authorities.

The well-armed kidnappers believed to be Fulani militants have renewed their attacks on Okunland, Kogi west senatorial district in recent times.

It would be recalled that exactly a week before the Odo-Ere attack, the hoodlums attacked Aiyegunle-Igun, Kabba-Bunu LGA, killing two people and abducting 30 others.

Similarly, two wives and three children of Professor Wonder, the paramount ruler of Odai, a community health worker, and his wife abducted from their homes in Iluke also in Kabba-Bunu are among those who have been in captivity in unknown criminal cells in Okunland.

Last week, the Kogi State Police Command, in conjunction with the state government, inaugurated Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, with a promise to end the rampage of criminals in all parts of the state.

US President Donald Trump has vowed that America will respond after Iran allegedly shot down a US Apache helicopter during a patrol operation over the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump made the announcement in a post on Truth Social on Tuesday, saying he had been briefed by the US military about the incident, which reportedly took place overnight. According to him, the helicopter involved was a highly sophisticated Apache attack aircraft.

The president said both pilots on board survived the incident and escaped without injuries. Despite the safe return of the crew, Trump described the action as a serious attack that would not go unanswered.

“I have just been informed by our great military that last night the Iranians shot down one of our highly sophisticated Apache helicopters while patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote.

“There were two pilots involved, both are safe and uninjured. Nevertheless, the United States must, of necessity, respond to this attack,” he added.

The development marks a fresh escalation in the already strained relationship between Washington and Tehran. Tensions between the two countries have remained high over issues including regional security, military activities, and Iran’s nuclear programme.

The Strait of Hormuz, where the incident reportedly occurred, is one of the world’s most strategic waterways. A significant portion of global oil exports passes through the narrow shipping route, making any military confrontation in the area a matter of international concern.

As of the time of filing this report, Iranian authorities had not officially responded to Trump’s claims. Observers are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that the incident could trigger a new round of confrontation between the two nations.

The Federal Government has officially opened a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Innovation Hub at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

The facility, called the Renewed Hope-NITDA Innovation Hub, was commissioned on June 8 by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.

The hub was established by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative. It contains modern laboratories focused on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing), and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The centre is aimed at helping students gain practical technology skills and access advanced equipment that is often unavailable in many Nigerian universities.

What the Minister Said

Speaking at the event, Dr. Tijani said the hub is an investment in the future of Nigerian youths and not just a building filled with equipment.

He encouraged students to make full use of the facility to develop innovative solutions and contribute to Nigeria’s technological growth.

According to him, although the hub will be open to the wider community, its main goal is to help students transform classroom knowledge into real-world innovations.

He added that the facility can support the development of products and ideas that will strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and improve the country’s position in the global technology sector.

Facilities Available

The innovation hub includes four specialised laboratories:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab

Robotics Lab

Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) Lab

Internet of Things (IoT) Lab

The 3D printing laboratory will expose students to technologies used in industries such as healthcare, aerospace, and construction.

The robotics and IoT laboratories will also support hardware-based innovation, an area where many Nigerian startups face challenges because of the high cost of equipment and product development.

Background

Earlier in February 2026, Dr. Tijani stated that Nigeria’s digital infrastructure is expected to be significantly improved by 2027.

He said the government is investing in major projects, including:

Deployment of 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cables

Launch of new communication satellites

Installation of 3,700 additional telecom towers in rural areas

According to the minister, these projects are designed to expand digital access and connectivity across the country.