Category: PM News

The collapse of a section of the New Gombe State House of Assembly Complex under construction has left one worker dead and seven others sustaining varying degrees of injuries.

Mr Danladi Adamu, the Permanent Secretary, Gombe State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transportation confirmed the incident to newsmen in a press statement issued in Gombe on Friday.

Adamu, who described the incident as unfortunate said that it occurred earlier on Friday and affected a section of the cantilevered entrance canopy under construction.

‘The incident involved eight workers where seven sustained injuries and were immediately evacuated for medical attention at the hospital.

‘Five are receiving treatment at the Gombe State Specialist Hospital, while two others are being treated at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe.

‘Regrettably, one life was lost,’ he said.

Danladi further stated that Gov Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has been briefed on the incident and that Yahaya expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased.

He said that the governor directed that all injured workers receive comprehensive medical care at government’s expense.

The permanent secretary said that the governor also directed his Ministry alongside other relevant emergency, regulatory and technical agencies, to immediately commence safety and accountability procedures.

He said Yahaya further directed that the contractor and the project consultant should submit a Formal Incident Report (FIR) within 24 hours.

He also said that the FIR should be followed by a Preliminary Investigation Report and, subsequently, a comprehensive technical report with findings and recommendations.

Danladi quoted Yahaya to have said that appropriate measures would be taken in line with the outcome of the investigation and applicable standards.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring strict compliance with safety, quality and engineering standards in the execution of all public infrastructure projects

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has expressed gratitude to God following the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oyo State, describing their freedom as a fulfilment of divine promise and an answer to prayers.

In a statement posted on its official X account on Saturday, the church celebrated the development, saying God had fulfilled His word concerning the captives.

‘And our God arose like He promised! Let somebody shout Hallelujah!! Glory be to our God for answering our prayers and fulfilling His word,’ the church said.

RCCG also commended the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies for securing the victims’ release after weeks in captivity.

‘We appreciate the efforts of all the security agencies in securing the release of our school children and their teachers from captivity. Congratulations to each of them and their families. Our God answers prayers. Hallelujah!!!’ the statement added.

The release comes weeks after the General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, publicly declared that God had assured him the abducted pupils and teachers would regain their freedom in a ‘dramatic’ manner.

Speaking during a church programme in June, Adeboye said he sought God’s face after the abduction sparked widespread concern and criticism over the fate of the victims.

According to him, God told him the children and teachers would be released dramatically, although no timeline or details were revealed. He subsequently urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer while security agencies continued rescue efforts.

The victims were abducted on May 15 when armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, including Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, Primary School, Esiele, and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School. During the ordeal, one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed by the kidnappers, heightening national anxiety over the fate of the remaining captives.

The successful rescue has drawn widespread relief across the country, with many Nigerians welcoming the safe return of the children and teachers while commending the combined efforts of security operatives involved in the operation.

For RCCG, the development marks what the church describes as the fulfilment of Pastor Adeboye’s prophetic declaration and a testimony to the power of prayer.

The Nigerian Army has revealed the details of the intense operation which led to the rescue of 44 pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

It described as a carefully planned and intelligence-driven operation involving multiple security agencies.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Deputy Director of 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the victims were freed on 10 July after an operation that lasted for more than a month.

The statement said the mission was led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General CR Nnebeife, in collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser, including the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Defence Headquarters, Special Forces from the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as local vigilantes, hunters and Amotekun personnel.

The statement said, ‘Following an intelligence-led carefully planned and executed operations, on 10 July 2026, troops of the Nigerian Army, led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General CR Nnebeife, in collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser… rescued a total of 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped by terrorists from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on 15 May 2026.’

The Army disclosed that the operation concentrated on dismantling the criminal network responsible for the abduction.

It stated, ‘The operations, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying the terrorists kingpins that masterminded the kidnapping, bursting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including their informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State.’

The military added that security operatives carried out several arrests within Oyo State and in other parts of the country, weakening the group and forcing it to release the captives.

‘As part of the operations, multiple arrests were made within Oyo State and in other locations across some states in the country. These arrests completely disorganised the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to unconditionally release the pupils and teachers. Further operations are to be conducted,’ the statement said.

The Army said the operation was executed with utmost caution to ensure the safe recovery of the hostages.

‘It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces,’ it added.

According to the statement, the rescued pupils and teachers are receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital before they are reunited with their families.

‘The pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government in due course so as to be reunited with their families,’ it said.

The GOC expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support throughout the operation.

According to statement, the GOC thanked ‘His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for the strategic guidance, support and for all the provisions that made the operations a huge success.’

The Army also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and residents of the state for supporting security agencies during the operation.

The statement further acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, other Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, the Directors General of the DSS and NIA, and heads of other security agencies for ensuring ‘a seamless coordination and execution of the operations.’

The Army also thanked the media and Nigerians for their confidence in the country’s security agencies and appealed for continued public cooperation.

‘We urge all to remain vigilant and continue to support all security agencies by providing timely and credible information that would assist in the ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and properties across Nigeria,’ the statement said.

KIDNAPPED STUDENTS AND TEACHERS IN OYO STATE RESCUED FOLLOWING, SURGICAL INTENSE AND WELL COORDINATED OPERATIONS IN OLD OYO NATIONAL PARK AND OTHER PARTS OF THE COUNTRY

1. Following an intelligence-led carefully planned and executed operations, on 10 July 2026, troops of the Nigerian Army, led by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, *Major General CR Nnebeife*, in collaboration with special units from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) specifically the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC),the Defence Headquarters with Special Forces elements from the Nigerian Army, Navy the Air Force and the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other security agencies as well as local vigilantes/hunters/Amotekuns, in a well coordinated operation rescued a total of 44 pupils and teachers kidnapped by terrorists from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on 15 May 2026.

2. The operations, which lasted for more than a month, focused on identifying the terrorists kingpins that masterminded the kidnapping, bursting and dismantling their networks and logistics links, including their informants and hideouts located within the Old Oyo National Park Forest, Oyo State.

3. As part of the operations, multiple arrests were made within Oyo State and in other locations across some States in the Country. These arrests completely disorganized the group, exerted overwhelming pressure on them and ultimately led the terrorist group to *unconditionally release* the pupils and teachers. Further operations are to be conducted.

4. It suffices to note that the operations were carefully planned and executed to avoid collateral damages and to equally ensure that the innocent children and teachers were safely rescued. However, there were some casualties on the part of the security forces.

5. The pupils and teachers are currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital and will be handed over to the Oyo State Government in due course so as to be reunited with their families.

6. The GOC 2 Division wish to on behalf of all the participating agencies most sincerely and respectfully thank and appreciate His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for the Strategic Guidance, Support and for all the provisions that made the operations a huge success.

7. The GOC also wishes to once again thank the Governor of Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde and indeed the good people of the State for their continous support to security agencies especially during the trying period.

8. The GOC also appreciates the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Hon Minster of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and other Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police and the Directors General DSS and NIA as well as Heads of other Security Agencies for their support and for the opportunity to relate directly with all the security agencies to ensure a seamless coordination and execution of the operations.

9. We sincerely thank the various media houses and indeed the entire Nigeria populace for their support, understanding and for having faith in the security architecture of the Nation. We urge all to remain vigilant and continue to support all security agencies by providing timely and credible information that would assist in the ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and properties across Nigeria.

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) Senatorial Candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Thursday joined eminent personalities, political leaders and other well-wishers in celebrating the birthday of Chief Benedict Akika, founder of the Omituntun Benedict Forum (OBF) and a prominent loyalist of Governor Seyi Makinde.

The colourful birthday celebration, held in Ibadan on Thursday, July 9, 2026, attracted notable political figures, government officials, party leaders, associates and supporters from across Oyo State, who gathered to honour Chief Akika for his contributions to the political development of the state and his unwavering commitment to grassroots empowerment.

Among the dignitaries present were the Chairman of Egbeda Local Government Area and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Oyo State, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, and the Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Kolapo Temitope Glorious, alongside several other political stakeholders.

Speaking during the event, Ambassador Ajadi described Chief Akika as a bridge-builder, grassroots mobiliser and philanthropist whose selfless service has earned him respect across political divides.

According to Ajadi, the celebrant has consistently demonstrated uncommon dedication to the progress of Oyo State through his support for community development, youth empowerment and initiatives that promote peace and unity.

‘Chief Benedict Akika is a remarkable leader whose life reflects humility, generosity and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. His passion for uplifting others and strengthening democratic values has made him a source of inspiration to many across Oyo State,’ Ajadi said.

He noted that true leadership is measured not by political titles but by the positive impact made in the lives of ordinary people, adding that Chief Akika has continued to distinguish himself through meaningful interventions that have benefited countless residents.

‘As you celebrate another year today, I pray that Almighty God grants you many more years in sound health, greater wisdom and abundant strength to continue your service to humanity. May your new age usher in greater accomplishments and lasting fulfilment,’ he added.

The APM senatorial candidate further urged political leaders in the state to place the collective interest of the people above personal ambitions, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved through unity, mutual respect and purposeful leadership.

He said Oyo State stands to benefit immensely when leaders, irrespective of political affiliations, work together to advance programmes and policies that improve the living standards of the people.

The birthday celebration featured goodwill messages, prayers and tributes from political associates, friends and family members, who described Chief Akika as a dependable leader, accomplished businessman and compassionate philanthropist committed to the growth and development of Oyo State.

Guests also commended the celebrant’s consistent support for grassroots political participation and his contributions to initiatives aimed at empowering young people and strengthening community development across the state.

The event ended on a joyous note with prayers for continued peace, progress and prosperity for Chief Benedict Akika, his family and Oyo State as a whole.

Plateau Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah has warned personnel of the command that they have no legal authority to search mobile phone of any citizen a court warrant.

Ewah, the Commissioner of Police in the state gave the warning while addressing the Command’s personnel in Jos.

He therefore warned the personnel against unlawfully demanding and searching of citizen’s mobile phones.

Mr Alfred Alabo, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Jos.

‘No personnel of this command has the legal authority to search mobile phone of any citizen on the road without a court warrant,’ Alabo quoted Ewah as saying.

The PPRO said that the commissioner, who reiterated the command’s commitment to professionalism, warned personnel against unprofessional conducts.

He added that the commissioner advised residents to politely decline any unlawful attempt by personnel to search their phones and report such to the nearest Police station.

Alabo also advised residents of the state to report any incident of harassment through the following phone numbers: 08034448617, 08060545670, 08037681026, 09016146804, and 09051145757.

The PPRO further reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting the lives, property and rights of law abiding residents in line with global best practices.

As the 2027 general election draws close, a passionate call has been made for peace and unity within the ranks of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the West Senatorial District of Kogi State.

This followed prolonged disagreements that broke out at the end of the senatorial primary of the party in the zone.

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ýThe call was made by Hon. Tunde Akanmidu, the Senior Legislative Aide to the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, in an official statement made available to newsmen in Lokoja on Thursday.

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ýAkanmidu stated that no people can attain lasting greatness while divided against themselves, stressing that the season of political competition must now give way to intense collaboration.

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ýAcknowledging the fierce and competitive nature of the party’s internal democratic processes, Akanmidu noted that every aspirant and supporter acted out of a genuine passion to serve Kogi West, but maintained that the party has spoken through its constitutional mechanisms and its decisions deserve absolute respect from loyal members.

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ý’The primaries have come and gone. Collective strength has never resided in factions but in unity of purpose, and no genuine party faithful should be alienated or left behind.’

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ýThe legislative aide highlighted that Kogi West currently enjoys a rare, powerful political alignment bridging the federal, legislative, and state levels, creating an invaluable opportunity that internal divisions must not be allowed to weaken.

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ý’This synergy is already yielding unprecedented developmental dividends for the region, including the approval of major road rehabilitation projects worth over ?128 billion under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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ý’At the legislative level, Senator Sunday Karimi continues to drive purposeful representation through community empowerment, student scholarships, and aggressive advocacy for improved regional security and infrastructure. This is complemented at the state level by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who continues to sustain people – oriented programs by strengthening rural development, healthcare delivery, and agricultural investments across Kogi State.’

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ýIn a bid to foster genuine healing, Akanmidu extended an olive branch to all sides of the political divide, urging the victorious political structure of Senator Sunday Karimi to exercise maturity and humility by actively reaching out to youth groups, women leaders, and stakeholders who may feel left behind.

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ý’True leadership is measured not only by winning elections but also by embracing those who may feel disappointed. I implore aggrieved party elders and leaders to sheathe their swords and silence divisive rhetoric both online and offline.

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ý’Political offices are temporary but the peace and development of the land will outlive every electoral cycle. A united Kogi West becomes an unstoppable force capable of securing even greater federal attention, so I urge everyone to embrace this season of reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity to build a stronger APC.’

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ýIt would be recalled that the camps of both Karimi and his major challenger, Samuel Bamidele Aro, have been at loggerheads with each laying claim to victory since the conduct of the primary.

The National Law Drug Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, on Friday arraigned 63-year-old drug baron, Anochili Innocent, three Mexican nationals and six other Nigerians before Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court, Lagos, on 11-count criminal charge bordering on the setting up of a super clandestine laboratory and the production of 2,419.48 kilograms of methamphetamine worth over N480 billion in Ogun State.

The three Mexican nationals arraigned alongside the Nigerians were identifies as Juan Carlos Meza Torrero, 49; Nemecio Martinez Felix, 46; Jesus López Valles, 40.

The Nigerians arraigned aside Anochili, were identified as Nwankwo Sunday Christian, 41; Egwuonwu Uchenna Victor, 38; Igwe Abuchi Remijus, 43; Ifeanyichukwu Chibuike Joshua, 23; Omonughwa Kingsley Orike, 45; and Nwobum Emeka, 59.

In the 11-count charge, the agency alleged that the defendants conspired between February and 16th May 2026 to establish a clandestine laboratory for the preparation, processing and production of methamphetamine, in violation of Section 14(b) of the NDLEA Act.

Other counts include managing, organising and financing a drug trafficking organisation contrary to Section 20(1)(g); unlawfully transporting precursor chemicals, including toluene, phenyl-2-propane (P2P), phenyl acetic acid, acetone and hydrochloric acid, from Lagos to the Mowe laboratory using a Toyota Tacoma, a Mercedes Benz marked APP 942 YL and a Toyota Highlander marked GWA 662DJ, contrary to Section 20(1)(f); and unlawful production and possession of the 2,419.48kg haul of methamphetamine, contrary to Sections 11(a) and 19 of the Act respectively.

NDLEA accused the defendants of possession of large quantities of precursor chemicals recovered at the laboratory, including 358kg of toluene, 1,834kg of hydrochloric acid and 22.5kg of acetone, alongside quantities of P2P and phenyl acetic acid, all contrary to Section 20(1)(e) of the NDLEA Act.

Anochili who was described by NDLEA as the owner of the fenced expanse of land on which the super lab was sited was charged separately under Section 12 of the NDLEA Act for unlawfully allowing his property to be used for the production of the illicit drug.

All 10 defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges before Justice Kakaki.

The prosecution thereafter called seven witnesses to commence trial having served the defence the proof of evidence since 3rd of July 2026 but the defence objected asking for more time.

The court consequently ordered that the defendants be remanded in the Correctional Centre Lagos with the case adjourned to the 16th and 22nd of July for trial and hearing of the application for bail.

They suspects were arrested by operatives of NDLEA in coordinated raids in Ogun and Lagos state between 16th and 18th May 2026 in the super lab hidden deep inside Mowe Forest, Ijebu East LGA of Ogun State.

Nwankwo Sunday Christian; Igwe Abuchi Remijus; Ifeanyichukwu Chibuike Joshua; and Egwuonwu Uchenna Victor as well as the three Mexican meth experts: Martinez Felix Nemecto; Jesus López Valles; and Torrero Juan Carlos were arrested on 16th May at the Super lab in Mowe Forest.

Anochili, the alleged mastermind of the cartel was simultaneously arrested at his luxury residence located at No. 8 Tafawa Balewa Street, Golf Estate, Lakowe, Lekki area of Lagos state on the same date.

In follow-up operations on Monday 18th May 2026, NDLEA operatives stormed another property owned by the baron at House 70, Close 3, Mayfair Estate, Lakowe, Lekki, Lagos where another key member of the syndicate, Kingsley Orike Omonughwa, was arrested.

The NDLEA investigators also stormed the residence of another syndicate member, Emeka Nwobum, whose property served as the cartel’s strategic stash house to arrest him on the same day.

Speaking on the arraignment, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) said the case represents one of the most significant dismantling of an industrial-scale narcotics production operation on Nigerian soil, underscoring the increasingly transnational character of drug trafficking networks now desperate to exploit Nigeria as a manufacturing base for onward export.

‘The presence of Mexican nationals among those arrested and arraigned today speaks to the alarming reach of international drug cartels now attempting to entrench themselves in Nigeria, but the Agency will not relent in tracking down and dismantling every such network, no matter how well concealed or well-financed’, Marwa stated.

He reiterated NDLEA’s commitment to ridding Nigeria of drug cartels and their local collaborators and called on members of the public to continue providing useful information to support the Agency’s operations nationwide.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ended all speculations about his running mate for the 2027 election on Friday with the submission of his nomination forms to the Chairman of the ruling All progressives Congress, APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, at a colourful ceremony held at the Ladi Kwaki International Conference Centre of Continental Hotel, Abuja.

The President retained the incumbent vice president Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, as revealed in the duly completed nomination forms submitted on his behalf by Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, his Special Adviser on Political Matters.

Masari submitted the duly completed forms for Tinubu and Shettima to Yilwatda for uploading to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal.

The colourful ceremony was witnessed by chieftains of APC, including members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, representatives from the National Assembly, the Federal Executive Council (FEC), and state party chairmen.

Aside the governors, members of the National Assembly and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) were also present at the event.

‘The presidential candidate of the party is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and our Vice Presidential candidate is Senator Kashim Shetima,’ APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka categorially confirmed to journalists at the event.

The APC heavyweights also used the occasion to assure that President Tinubu will be returned to office with overwhelming votes in 2027 on the back of 12 million registered members of the party and the visible milestones of the current administration.

Speaking while party chieftains to the event, APC National Organising Secretary Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu described it as the natural climax of a highly transparent internal process.

He noted that the presidential flag bearer emerged through a thoroughly transparent primary process.

Argungu also hailed President Tinubu over his ‘positive strides’ while urging party faithful to remain united, prayerful, and steadfast.

Also speaking at the event, PGF Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodimma said the transparent nature of the primaries had made marketing the candidates seamless.

‘We are delighted that this event is coming after a well-organised and thoroughly supervised primary process. We reiterate our commitment to continue supporting President Tinubu and the party,’ the Imo State Governor said.

‘We will continue to support him in the larger interest of Nigerians and to take the country to greater heights. Together, we are going to deliver victory for President Tinubu and ensure the party wins all elective positions, including the National and State Assemblies,’ Uzodimma added.

Speaking after receiving the forms, Yilwatda stated that the revalidation of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket represents the authentic heartbeat of the party’s grassroots.

‘Today is a reflection of the wishes of over 12 million members of our party who supported the President’s candidature,’ Yilwatda remarked. ‘We are proud of the support already in the kitty of President Tinubu, and we are convinced that many more Nigerians will vote for him.’

The APC Chairman listed key initiatives that have demonstrated commitment of President Tinubu to Nigeria’s development to include the student loan scheme, which he said has already benefited over 1.5 million students targeted agricultural interventions and nationwide infrastructure projects as verifiable proof of performance.

The APC Chairman therefore urged party members to return to their local communities armed with facts rather than rhetoric to dismantle opposition narratives.

‘While others are busy spreading propaganda, let us counter them with facts. Nigerians have seen governance that touches lives across the six geopolitical zones,’ Yilwatda stated.

He emphasised that the APC has an advantage over its rivals as the only political platform in the country with a fully digitalised and verified membership database.

‘We already have about 12 million verified members. We are going round the country to mobilise support for the President. I am also confident that our governors will compete among themselves to deliver the highest number of votes,’ Yilwatda said.

‘Go and tell the leader of our party (President Tinubu) that our members and Nigerians will vote for him to continue the excellent work he is doing. As a party, we are proud to be presenting the best candidate. There is no shaking at all come 2027, our victory is assured,’ Yiltwada told Masari

Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate Peter Obi has backed Pastor Enoch Adeboye’s assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts in tackling insecurity, saying the President has done his best.

Obi made the remarks during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, where he spoke about his presidential ambition and why Nigerians should consider his leadership record.

Reacting to Adeboye’s recent comments defending Tinubu against criticism over insecurity, Obi described the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God as a respected religious leader whose views should be considered.

‘Pastor Adeboye remains a very revered, respected religious father, whom I believe in his genuineness and goodness,’ Obi said.

According to Obi, Adeboye was right in saying that Tinubu had made efforts in addressing the country’s security challenges.

‘What he said was correct. He said he has tried his best. He’s trying his best. That’s it. It’s the correct answer,’ Obi said.

However, Obi questioned whether the President’s efforts had been enough to address the problems facing Nigerians.

‘The question to ask is: Is his best good enough? Where we find ourselves today, that leads to the issue of capacity,’ he added.

Obi said effective leadership requires competence, capacity, compassion, commitment, and character, arguing that these qualities are necessary to move the country forward.

While acknowledging Tinubu’s efforts, the former presidential candidate said Nigeria’s security situation showed the need for stronger leadership.

‘President Tinubu is tired. He needs to go home and rest,’ Obi said.

Adeboye had earlier defended Tinubu against accusations that his administration was not doing enough to tackle insecurity.

Speaking during the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala organised by the Save Nigeria Group in Washington, D.C., Adeboye said it was unfair to accuse the President of inaction, arguing that a commander-in-chief was not expected to personally take part in military operations.

‘When the commander-in-chief has given instructions to his subordinates, he has done his bit,’ Adeboye said.

Police operatives have rescued four kidnap victims abducted from the Mpape area of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT after a gun duel with their kidnappers.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh, said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

She said the victims were rescued following a distress call on July 8, reporting that suspected kidnappers invaded the area at about 10:40 p.m. and kidnapped four residents.

According to her, upon receipt of the report, the command immediately deployed operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and 24 Police Mobile Force Squadron to the scene.

‘Upon their arrival, preliminary findings revealed that the assailants had shot two victims before fleeing the scene and had also taken four other victims’ hostage from a nearby area.

‘The victims were forcefully marched through Jikoko Hills towards Ushafa Forest.

‘The two injured victims were rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention, where one of them, identified only as Mr. Babangida, was later confirmed dead by medical personnel,

‘The second victim, who sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, is currently responding positively to treatment,’ she said.

She said police operatives maintained relentless pursuit of the kidnappers from the night of the incident, July 8 till July 10, when they located the kidnappers.

Adeh said the kidnappers were located at about 12:05 am around Jikoko Hills heading towards Ushafa Forests with the victims.

‘On sighting the advancing operatives, the kidnappers opened fire, engaging the police team in a fierce exchange of gunfire.

‘Demonstrating superior tactical capability, the operatives overwhelmed the suspects, forcing them to abandon the hostages and flee deeper into the surrounding hills and forest in a desperate attempt to evade arrest.

‘All four kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed, safely evacuated from the forest, and reunited with their families,’ she said.

She said the responding police teams had remained hot on the trail of the fleeing kidnappers.

Adeh said the Commissioner of Police in charge of the FCT, Mr Ahmed Sanusi, had pledged to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act would be arrested and brought to justice.

She said the Sanusi enjoined the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest Police Station or to the command through its emergency lines on 08032003913, 08028940883.