Category: PM News

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has apprehended one Umar Muhammadu for allegedly mixed loading a Mitsubishi Canter with no fewer than 15 persons and 8 motorcycles concealed under its trampoline.

This is contained in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Osondu Ohaeri.

According to Ohaeri, FRSC personnel intercepted the vehicle, registration number GDD 815 ZP, after professional suspicion prompted a closer inspection of its sealed trampoline.

He said that marshals discovered 15 persons and eight motorcycles dangerously concealed among goods, beneath the covering in clear violation of road safety regulations and with grave implications for the safety of the occupants and other road users.

‘The driver, who allegedly attempted to sway an FRSC Marshal with N500 and could not produce a valid driver’s licence, was arrested.

‘The vehicle and its occupants were handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, Mararaba, for further investigation and prosecution, following the directive of the Sector Commander, RS7.1 FCT, CC Tijjani Iliyasu,’he said.

The CPEO also said that similarly, in Abia, a Mobile Court sitting and presided over by Magistrate C. E. Nwankpa, sentenced Azubuike Dominic to one month imprisonment at the Afara Correctional Centre after he was apprehended for driving without a valid driver’s license.

He said that Dominic was driving a Toyota Hiace commercial vehicle, registration number GWB 298 XY, without a valid driver’s licence and absconded while being escorted to court.

‘The driver was re-apprehended several kilometres away following a coordinated pursuit involving FRSC personnel and the military.

‘The development underscores the corps’ determination that enforcement actions will not be frustrated by attempts to evade lawful arrest or judicial proceedings,’ the CPEO said.

According to him, the corps views the incidents as compelling evidence that its enforcement architecture is moving beyond routine interception to intelligence led, evidence based and technology conscious road safety enforcement.

He said that in the enforcement, professional observation and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures were deployed to uncover concealed violations and protect lives.

He also said that the the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, had consistently charged personnel to remain vigilant, professional and uncompromising in the discharge of their statutory responsibilities, while strengthening inter-agency synergy.

Ohaeri warned motorist, particularly commercial vehicle operators, against attempting to evade enforcement, concealing passengers or motorcycles, overloading vehicles or driving without valid licences.

According to him, any of these offences will attract appropriate sanctions.

‘The corps will continue to combine intelligence, professional enforcement, mobile courts and strategic inter-agency collaboration to protect road users and make Nigeria’s roads safer,’ he said.

He emphasised that there would be no hiding place for reckless and dangerous driving on the road to a safer Nigeria.

The Kogi State Police Command has arrested a man, Jacob Irewa, over the alleged attempted killing of his wife, Berida Irawo, in Lokoja.

The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Oworo Estate, Felele, according to the command’s spokesperson, Salisu Afusat.

Afusat said the B Division Surveillance Team received a report of the incident at about 8.30pm and quickly moved to the scene, where Irewa was arrested.

She said the preliminary investigation indicated that the incident followed a domestic dispute after Irawo allegedly burnt some of her husband’s clothes which she believed he was no longer using, without seeking his permission.

‘The suspect subsequently threatened her, fetched petrol from his motorcycle and proceeded to set her ablaze,’ she said.

The victim survived the attack and is currently receiving treatment at Honey Gold Hospital, Felele.

According to Afusat, ‘The suspect, in his statement to the Police, admitted to setting his wife ablaze. The Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and gather further evidence.’

The Commissioner of Police in Kogi, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, condemned the incident and reaffirmed the command’s opposition to violence, particularly domestic abuse.

He advised members of the public to resolve domestic disagreements through lawful means rather than resorting to acts that could put lives at risk.

The commissioner added that the suspect would be prosecuted after the conclusion of investigations.

‘The Kogi State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring that persons responsible for violent crimes are brought to justice,’ the PPRO added.

The Borno State Police Command has recovered an unexploded hand grenade from a drainage slab in the Moduganari area of Maiduguri.

Police spokesperson Nahum Daso disclosed this in a statement, saying the command received information about the suspicious object at about 12:40 p.m. on Saturday.

Following the report, Commissioner of Police Naziru Abdulmajid directed operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal-Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Base 13 to proceed to the location.

The operatives secured the area and safely removed the grenade.

Daso said the explosive had been secured for further examination, while an investigation had commenced to determine its origin and the circumstances surrounding its discovery.

The commissioner commended residents who alerted the police and reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Borno State.

The police warned members of the public not to touch, move or tamper with suspected explosive devices.

Residents were advised to maintain a safe distance and immediately report suspicious objects or activities to the appropriate security agencies.

Vice-Presidential Candidate of National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, has spoken on his decision to be the running mate of Mr. Peter Obi in the 2027 election.

Kwankwaso while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday, revealed that his move was inspired by the need for national balance, equity and democratic change.

He explained that his experience from the 2023 election had helped him understand Obi better and that he was convinced that both of them could work together in the interest of the country.

Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor, said the decision was also influenced by the need to allow the South to retain the presidency for another term after the completion of an eight-year tenure by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

‘People learn every day and that is why experience is very important. In 2023, we attempted to work together and at that particular point, I knew little about Peter Obi. But over these last four years, I was able to learn a lot and realised that Peter is somebody that I could work together with,’ he said.

He said that the decision was reached after consultations with members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, supporters of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Obidient Movement.

He said that the groups believed that the country needed a balanced ticket capable of attracting support from both the North and the South.

Kwankwaso said the security challenges confronting the country, alongside declining agricultural productivity and deteriorating infrastructure further strengthened his resolve to support a political arrangement capable of bringing democratic change.

He said the economic hardship had particularly affected farmers, especially in Northern Nigeria, where agricultural production had become increasingly difficult and unprofitable.

The former Defence Minister said the dilapidation of infrastructure across the country, except in some areas such as Lagos, was another reason for accepting to pair with Obi.

He said the current situation required the kind of democratic change that Nigerians sought in 2015, adding that the need for such change was now greater.

Kwankwaso said the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket would provide a combination of regional balance, competence and credibility.

‘Nobody, no ticket can beat our own in terms of credibility, in terms of capacity and of course, in terms of love for the country; even in terms of empathy for the poor that are suffering across the country today,’ he said.

He explained that agreeing to serve as vice-president was not a setback for him, despite his extensive political experience, including serving as deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, governor, minister and senator.

‘I have never been the vice-president. I think it is a step forward despite all the things you counted,’ he said.

Kwankwaso said his decision was based on a broader national interest rather than personal ambition, stressing that public office should primarily be viewed as an opportunity to serve.

‘To me, being in government is to serve. I don’t have to be president. I don’t have to even be vice-president. These are things that are in the hands of Almighty Allah. But the fact remains that the situation, as it is today, one has to look at it beyond your humble self,’ he said.

He said the agreement with Obi was for the South to produce the president for one term, after which the political arrangement would return to the North.

Kwankwaso cited historical examples of political leaders who had accepted positions below what they could have attained, including Sir Ahmadu Bello, who chose to remain Premier of Northern Nigeria rather than becoming Prime Minister.

He also said Nigerians should understand that service could be rendered at different levels, including as councillor, local government chairman, legislator, governor, minister, vice-president or president.

According to him, political leaders should be prepared to serve wherever they are needed, rather than considering certain offices beneath them.

He dismissed claims by political opponents that his political engagements with the All Progressives Congress (APC) or other parties were contingent on securing either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket.

Kwankwaso said discussions he held with President Bola Tinubu after the 2023 election were about working together and not about abandoning NNPP or securing a particular position.

He said he had previously played a major role in the APC’s electoral victory, particularly through the votes recorded in Kano in 2015, but became disappointed with the party’s leadership after the election.

The former governor said his confidence in the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance was strengthened by what he described as Obi’s commitment to fairness, justice and national unity.

He said the arrangement would also ensure that the North would not be disadvantaged, stressing that the one-term understanding was important in securing the confidence of his supporters.

Kwankwaso said he was confident that Obi would respect the agreement and work with him as a partner rather than treat the vice-president as a ‘spare tyre.’ He said his experience as deputy speaker, minister and governor had taught him the importance of allowing deputies to function effectively.

According to him, a president or governor who gives his deputy meaningful responsibilities ultimately strengthens the government because the success of the deputy also benefits the principal.

He said he was therefore comfortable with the proposed arrangement and had confidence that Obi would allow him to contribute meaningfully to governance.

Kwankwaso said the alliance would prioritise competence in the appointment of ministers and other officials, with power shared according to the needs of the country rather than for political patronage.

‘Power will be shared according to the needs of the country. We should not be in a hurry to go and take anybody on the streets or anybody we remember. We will make sure that we have competent people because from our experience, the president and vice-president cannot do it alone,’ he said.

The former governor said an NDC administration would need technocrats, professionals and experienced politicians capable of addressing Nigeria’s complex challenges.

The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Osun State Coordinator, Mr Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, has commended corps members deployed as ad-hoc personnel for their professionalism, discipline and commitment to duty during the 2026 Osun State off-cycle governorship election held on Saturday, August 15.

Kubiangha gave the commendation while monitoring the election at selected polling units across Ede South, Ede North, Olorunda, Osogbo and Egbedore Local Government Areas.

The State Coordinator visited polling units across Alajue 1 and Alajue 2, Akoda/Oloki and Isibo/Buhari-Isola wards, among others, where he assessed the safety and welfare of corps members and observed the general conduct of the election.

He expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the corps members, noting that they had largely adhered to the instructions, operational guidelines and safety advisories issued during his sensitisation tour of the Local Government Areas of the State, as well as directives from the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters and the Southwest Area Office 1.

Kubiangha also monitored polling units in Osogbo, where voting had been concluded in some locations while the process was still ongoing in others.

He noted that the corps members were safe and discharged their responsibilities without fear, intimidation or undue interference. He further visited polling units in Awo and Iragberi in Egbedore Local Government Area.

The State Coordinator commended the officers who manned the situation room, Zonal Inspectors and Local Government Inspectors for their effective coordination and monitoring of corps members throughout the exercise. He equally appreciated the security agencies for their efforts in protecting corps members deployed for election duties across the state.

He expressed appreciation to officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their prompt response to issues reported from the field, noting that such interventions helped to sustain the smooth conduct of the electoral process.

Kubiangha further acknowledged the cooperation among the various stakeholders, particularly under the Inter-Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), describing it as a significant factor in ensuring a peaceful and orderly election.

He reiterated the commitment of the NYSC to the safety and welfare of corps members and urged them to continue to uphold the ideals of the Scheme, professionalism and national service in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Internal Security Matters, Taofiq Alapadupe, has described the atmosphere surrounding the Osun State governorship election as overwhelming, saying the large turnout and support recorded across the state reflected the people’s strong appreciation for Governor Ademola Adeleke.

According to him, the election generated significant excitement among residents, with many people turning out to participate in the electoral process.

He noted that the level of mobilisation and participation demonstrated the strong connection between the people and the Governor, adding that the enthusiasm witnessed during the election was evident in several communities across the state.

The Special Assistant also said Governor Adeleke had consistently shown appreciation to the people for their support and had made efforts to test his capacity to deliver on his promises.

He explained that the Governor’s programmes and engagements with the people had produced positive results, contributing to the large number of residents who came out to express their support.

He added that the atmosphere during the election was so overwhelming that it left many people impressed, describing the turnout and general mood as a clear indication of the level of enthusiasm surrounding the exercise.

Five suspected notorious armed robbers are cooling their heels at the Bompai police headquarters, Kano following their arrest at Jajaye village, in Rogo Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects identified as Basiru Ibrahim, 25 years; Saidu Madaki, 23 years; Sa’adu Ibrahim, 25, Lawan Yusuf, 24, and Muktar Salisu, 21 were arrested on August 13 following credible intelligence report received by operatives of Rogo Police Division.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects have been involved in four different cases of criminal trespass, criminal conspiracy, and armed robbery within Jajaye Village and its environs, which resulted in various degrees of grievous injuries to victims.

They also confessed to having stolen about five motorcycles and other valuable properties.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, said the feat indicated a significant breakthrough in the fight against crime across the state.

‘These achievements are in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Rilwan Disu on robust community policing engagements, sustained intelligence-led policing, and proactive crime prevention strategies,’ he added.

According to him, on the same date, August 13, 2026, information from a patriotic member of the public led operatives of Dorayi Babba Division to Rijiyar Zaki Motor Park.

Upon search, one Tokarev Pistol with loaded 48 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition was recovered from a suspicious parcel of luggage.

During interrogation, the suspect confessed to having bought the firearm and ammunition from another state and was forwarding the same to someone in another state.

Investigation is ongoing to trail and apprehend other accomplices in the illegal arms supply chain.

Mr. Bakori further stated that in a swift response to complaints, operatives of Gaya Division swung into action, on August 13, 2026, when Hamisu Garba, of Yanduji village, reported the theft of his cow.

Later in the day, Maikudi Adamu of Jobe, Gaya Local Government Area, also reported the theft of his ram.

The patrol team intercepted Karimu Mamman and Madama, all male of Jube Village, in possession of the said cow and ram.

Discreet investigation led to the arrest of an additional two suspected syndicate members and were charged to court for prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police commended the good people of Kano state for their vigilance and timely information that led to the successes.

He also appreciated the officers and men of Dorayi Babba, Rogo, and Gaya Divisions for their steadfastness, professionalism, and commitment to duty.

Mr. Bakori reiterated that the Command remains resolute in sustaining community policing, intelligence gathering, and inter-agency collaboration to ensure Kano state remains safe and secure for all residents.

He urged members of the public to continue to report any suspicious activity to the nearest Police Station or call the Command’s emergency lines: 08032419754, 08123821575, or 09029292926.

Meanwhile, on August 14, 2026, Mr. Bakori received in audience, a delegation from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, at the Command Headquarters, Bompai, Kano.

The team was led by the leader of delegation and member of the Directing Staff, Brig. Gen. LA Jimoh (Rtd).

The visit was part of the Institute’s one-week study tour of Kano state by Senior Executive Course 48, 2026.

The theme of their study is: ‘Economic diversification and National Development: Leveraging the Orange Economy and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Growth in Nigeria.’

Mr. Bakori emphasized that no form of economic diversification can thrive without security.

He noted that Kano, as the commercial and cultural hub of northern Nigeria, requires a policing model that protects both traditional commerce and emerging creative industries such as Kannywood, fashion, music, crafts, and digital content.

The Kano police boss highlighted that on assumption of duty, the Command identified key threats across the 44 Local Government Areas, including thuggery and phone robbery in the metropolis, trans-border crimes in border areas, and farmers/herders clashes in rural communities.

He stated that in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, the Command adopted intelligence-led policing, enhanced community policing, capacity building, synergy with sister agencies, expansion of the Cybercrime Unit, public enlightenment, and ‘Operation Kukan Kura’ to tackle violent crime.

Mr. Bakori disclosed that through the Command’s Departments, 78 Divisions, 11 Area Commands, five Tactical Units, and two PMF Squadrons, over 4,000 suspects have been arrested for various offenses within the period under review.

He added that, ‘these efforts have created a safer environment for businesses, markets, transport, and the creative sector to thrive.’

The Commissioner of Police, noted that reforms by the Inspector General of Police, on public trust, accountability, technology, intelligence-led policing, synergy, VCRU, and improved welfare have strengthened the Command’s capacity to respond to crime and build trust with communities and stakeholders.

Brig. General LA Jimoh (Rtd), stated that the delegation was in Kano to receive a brief on the security situation and its relationship with the study theme on the Orange Economy and Entrepreneurship.

He commended the exemplary reception and appreciated Mr. Bakori and his team for the peace and security being enjoyed in Kano state.

Mr. Bakori appreciated the delegation for the visit and wished them a successful tour of Kano state.

He reiterated the Command’s commitment to a people-centered, disciplined, and intelligence-driven policing model that enables business, protects culture, and secures the future of Kano.

He further thanked the Inspector General of Police, for his leadership, the Kano state government, and the good people of Kano for their support and cooperation.

ýThe Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted cloudiness and thunderstorms from Sunday to Tuesday across the country.

ýNiMet weather outlook released in Abuja envisaged sunny skies with patches of clouds over the northern region with chances of early morning ýthunderstorms.

It anticipated light rains over parts of Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna, Borno, Taraba and Adamawa States.

ý’Later during the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains are expected over most parts of the region.

‘Sunny skies with patches of cloud are anticipated over the North central region with chances of early morningý thunderstorms with light rains over parts of Kwara, Niger, Kogi and the Federal Capital Territory.

ý’By the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected in most parts of the region,’ it said.

ýThe agency predicted cloudy skies over the southern region, with chances of light rains over parts of Oyo, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States during the morning hours.

It forecast moderate rains over parts of Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, River, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States later in the day.

ýAccording to the agency, sunny skies with patches of cloud are expected over the northern region on Monday with prospects of thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains over parts of Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States during the morning hours.

‘Later in the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains are expected over parts of Yobe, Jigawa, Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Taraba and Adamawa States.

‘Cloudy skies with spells of sunshine are expected over the North central region with prospects of thunderstorms ýaccompanied by moderate rains over parts of Niger, Kwara, Nasarawa and the Federal Capital Territory during the morning hours.

ý’By the afternoon or evening hours, sunny skies with a few patches of clouds are expected over most parts of the region,’ it said.

NiMet predicted a cloudy atmosphere over the southern region, with prospects of light rains over most parts of the

South-western region during the morning hours.

ýIt forecast moderate rains over the South-southern and South-eastern parts of the country later in the day.

The agency anticipated sunny over northern skies on Tuesday with a few patches of clouds over the northern region during the morning hours.

According to the agency, thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rains are expected over parts of Katsina, Kano, Kebbi, Kaduna and the North-eastern regions later in the day.

‘Sunny skies with patches of clouds are anticipated over the North central region during the morning hours.

ý’By the afternoon /evening hours, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected in most parts of the region.

ý’Cloudy atmosphere is anticipated over the southern region, with prospects of light rains over parts of Akwa-Ibom ýand Cross-River states during the morning hours.’

By the afternoon and evening hours, moderate rains are expected over the region,’ it said.

ýAccording to the agency, strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur, public should take adequate precaution and ensure that loose objects are fastened to avoid collision.

ý’Driving under heavy rain should be avoided.

‘Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets. Stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees.

ý’Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.

‘Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from,’ it said.

Osun State Governor and Accord Party governorship candidate, Ademola Adeleke, has cast his ballot in the ongoing governorship election, as voters turned out early across parts of the state to participate in the exercise.

Adeleke arrived at Polling Unit 009, Ward 02, Abogunde Compound, in Ede North Local Government Area at about 8:10 a.m., where he subsequently exercised his franchise.

The governor’s arrival came amid an early turnout of voters in Ede, his hometown, as well as parts of Ilesha and Osogbo, with residents trooping to their respective polling units to vote and determine who will lead the state.

In Ede, some voters arrived at their polling units as early as 6:40 a.m., while vehicles were seen conveying voters and members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to various locations ahead of the commencement of voting.

Security personnel were also deployed across Ede North and Ede South local government areas, with checkpoints mounted in compliance with the restriction on vehicular movement imposed for the election.

Personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were seen at several polling units before the arrival of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and election materials.

Local election observers were also present at some polling units, monitoring preparations and the voting process.

While accreditation and voting had commenced at some locations, INEC officials were yet to paste the register of eligible voters at some other polling units visited.

The early voter turnout was not limited to Ede, as similar activity was reported in other parts of the state, including Ilesha and Osogbo.

With voters arriving at polling units from the early hours of the morning, the election has recorded active participation as residents exercise their civic rights in choosing the next governor of Osun State.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has uploaded 3,191 of the 3,763 expected polling-unit results from Saturday’s Osun State governorship election to its Result Viewing (IReV) portal.

The latest update, recorded at 8:18:05 p.m. on August 15, 2026, represents 84.80 per cent of the results expected from the state’s 30 local government areas.

With 3,191 result sheets now available on the portal, 572 polling-unit results remain to be uploaded, according to the latest figures displayed by INEC.

The development marks a significant increase in the electronic publication of results as the commission continues the collation process following voting across the state.

The figures show that results have been uploaded from all 30 local government areas, although the level of completion varies across the councils.

Osogbo Local Government Area, which has 282 polling units, recorded the highest number of uploaded results at 258, leaving 24 outstanding.

Ife Central had 194 of its 215 results uploaded, while Ife East recorded 181 of 200. In Ilesa East, 115 of 132 expected results had been uploaded.

Other areas with substantial uploads included Ifelodun, with 126 of 145 results; Aiyedade, 121 of 150; Irepodun, 120 of 133; Ila, 117 of 124; and Ede North, 116 of 139.

The latest figures also show that some local government areas are approaching full electronic transmission. Boluwaduro had 73 of 74 results uploaded, while Ifedayo had 60 of 63 and Isokan had 73 of 95.

At the time of the update, Ola-Oluwa had the lowest proportion of uploaded results among the listed councils, with 41 of 62 result sheets available on the portal.

The 84.80 per cent upload figure, however, does not represent 84.80 per cent of votes counted, nor does it indicate the percentage of the election won by any candidate.

Rather, it reflects the proportion of expected polling-unit result sheets that had been electronically uploaded to the IReV platform at the time of the update.

The remaining 572 result sheets will therefore be crucial to the completion of the electronic publication process, although the official winner of the election will ultimately be determined through INEC’s established collation and declaration process.

The increasing number of uploaded results provides voters, political parties and observers with greater access to polling-unit result sheets as the state awaits the final outcome of the governorship contest.

Attention is now focused on the remaining uploads and the official collation of results from the state’s 30 local government areas.