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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Major Busts at Lagos Airport

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

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

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

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

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

Other Major Seizures Nationwide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised alarm over the escalating insecurity across various parts of Nigeria, calling on the Federal Government to respond with honesty, urgency, and transparency.

In a statement released on Sunday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, criticized the government for what it described as ‘insensitive claims of progress’ that contradict the daily experiences of Nigerians facing violence and unrest.

‘The country is under attack. This administration must stop pretending otherwise,’ Abdullahi said. ‘National security must no longer be treated as a political talking point, but as a core responsibility of governance.’

The ADC urged the Federal Government to first acknowledge the full scope and complexity of the security crisis, and to work closely with affected states, local governments, and communities. According to the party, meaningful progress can only be made through direct engagement and by incorporating local insights into the development of practical security strategies.

In addition, the party called for a nationwide increase in security alertness, coordinated efforts between the military, police, and local security networks, regular public updates on security developments and a transparent system for tracking and auditing federal security expenditures.

‘The lives of Nigerians must matter more than sound bites and ceremonies,’ Abdullahi emphasized. ‘The time for symbolic gestures is over. What the country needs now is responsible leadership, operational urgency, and measurable results.’

Renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and entertainment visionary, Oladapo OJ Adewunmi, CEO of Apollo Endeavor, has once again been recognized internationally for his remarkable contributions to the Nigerian community and global creative industry.

During the celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary held in Brampton, Ontario, Adewunmi received a prestigious recognition award from His Worship Patrick Brown, the Mayor of Brampton.

The recognition was presented in acknowledgment of Adewunmi’s outstanding role in promoting African creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural unity both in Nigeria and across the diaspora. His work has continued to inspire a new generation of innovators and creatives, strengthening cultural ties between Africa and North America.

Mayor Patrick Brown commended Adewunmi for his consistent dedication to building communities through entertainment and business, describing him as a bridge between cultures and a leader who represents the progressive image of the African continent.

The event, attended by dignitaries, cultural leaders, and members of the Nigerian community, served as a powerful moment of unity, pride, and recognition of excellence among Nigerians in Canada.

In his heartfelt speech, Oladapo OJ Adewunmi expressed his gratitude and reflected on the significance of the honor, saying:

‘October has always been a special month for me, and receiving such a prestigious recognition during Nigeria’s Independence celebration is truly humbling. Contributing to building our community-both at home and internationally-has always been my calling, and this recognition reinforces that mission. I’m here to serve.’

Adeweunmi’s recognition by the City of Brampton marks another milestone in his expanding global influence, following previous accolades including his Certificate of Recognition from the City of Brampton earlier this year and his recent win as Iconic Entertainment Entrepreneur of the Year at the 100 Iconic Personalities Awards 2025.

Through Apollo Endeavor, Adewunmi continues to empower creatives, create employment opportunities, and expand Africa’s creative and entertainment footprint across international borders. His work stands as a testament to the power of vision, purpose, and cultural collaboration in shaping a better global community.

The tension in Biggie’s house has reached its peak as Sultana and Kola became the latest housemates to be evicted from the Big Brother Naija Season 10 grand finale, leaving just three finalists to battle for the ?80 million grand prize.

Sultana’s exit came as a shock to fans who hailed her as one of the most dynamic housemates of the season. Known for her blend of confidence and charisma, Sultana effortlessly ruled both the game and the dance floor – trending for her ships, viral edits, and signature diva attitude.

Earlier, Kola’s eviction reduced the finalists from five to four. His calm charm, humour, and kind-hearted presence made him one of the most relatable faces in the house.

With Koyin, Joanna, and Imisi now the last three standing, all eyes are on who will walk away as the Big Brother Naija Season 10 champion – and with it, ?80 million in cash and prizes.

Former governorship aspirant in Lagos, Dr Abdul-Azeez Adediran (aka Jandor), has advised former president Goodluck Jonathan not to heed calls to contest against President Tinubu in 2027.

Adediran, the Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, gave this advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.

Adediran urged Jonathan to rather stay in retirement, saying those telling him to run against Tinubu were deceiving him.

He said Tinubu ‘is a master in the game of politics who cannot be defeated by Jonathan or any other figure in 2027.’

‘I disagree with people calling on Jonathan to re-contest, people saying Jonathan is the only person who can challenge Tinubu, citing his popularity and experience.

‘It was this same man (Tinubu) that defeated him (Jonathan) from the outside. So, they are not the same.

‘If you accidentally found yourself at the Aso Villa as President, it is different from somebody who gave his all to get there.

‘It is different from somebody who, against all odds, got there. They did all sorts for him not to get there, and he got there.

‘Such a man, cannot be put side by side with somebody who just slept and woke up and found himself on the seat of President.,’ he said

According to him, it will amount to a waste of time for Jonathan to attempt to dislodge Tinubu.in 2027.

Adediran urged Jonathan to listen to his wife, Patience, who had also urged him not to contest 2027 Presidency.

He said that Tinubu’s personality, popularity and experience were ‘intimidating’ and that Jonathan should not risk ‘a humiliating defeat’ in 2027.

Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Lagos, have arrested a 44-year-old estate manager, Ayodele Solanke, for allegedly defrauding several companies of a total sum of ?99 million under false pretence.

According to the police, Solanke’s arrest followed multiple complaints from victims who accused him of collecting large sums of money under the guise of securing office and accommodation spaces but allegedly diverting the funds for personal use.

Trouble reportedly began when Solanke allegedly collected ?25 million from the management of Moore Bishop and Brooks Abvisor, promising to provide office space for the firm, a promise he failed to fulfil.

Investigators said he later received another ?63 million from six organisations-Mortgage Banking Association of Nigeria (MBAN) Chapters, Heights Finance Limited, Silvercuum Cooperative Society, Push Africa, Mutual Specialist Investment Co., and Orisun Biotech Limited, under similar pretences.

Instead of remitting the funds to Unicorn Group, the company said to have contracted him for the deals, Solanke allegedly converted the money for his personal use.

Following the failed attempts by the victims to recover their money, the case was reported to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olatunji Fayoade, who ordered a tactical team to track down the suspect.

Solanke was eventually arrested at a hideout in Lagos.

After investigations led by ASP Francis Achua, the suspect was charged before the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court sitting at the Tinubu Magistrate’s Court, Lagos Island, on a three-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.

The prosecuting counsel, ASP Jimoh Joseph, told the court that the offences were committed in June 2025 at 362 Herbert Macaulay Way, Yaba, and contravened Sections of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

Solanke pleaded not guilty to all charges. The presiding Magistrate, A.O. Alogba, granted him ?2 million bail with two sureties in like sum.

He was ordered to be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions, while the case was adjourned for further hearing.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Bono has resettled three more communities after residents resisted Boko Haram displacement in Banki, Bama Local Government Area.

The governor, who was in Banki, where the insurgents attacked military barrack and civilian locations, on Sunday, sympathized with residents and commended their resilience.

‘I purposely came to Banki to salute your courage; your act of bravery is really encouraging.

‘We should not allow a few bad elements to displace this town whose businesses and economic activities have been thriving.

‘I want to assure you that the insurgents will not succeed, Insha’Allah. We will strengthen the security of this border town and will support our youth volunteers, hunters, and vigilantes to further fortify this area,’ Zulum said.

He assured that robust security measures will be implemented to protect the border town from further attacks by Boko Haram insurgents.

Mr President, your intervention is urgently needed to halt what appears to be an orchestrated attempt by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to cancel legally binding cargo survey (CS) contracts still valid until 2029.

It cannot be swept aside as mere internal reorganisation when, in fact, this move carries the hallmarks of economic sabotage that will erode government revenue, dent investor confidence, and undermine port efficiency.

It is no secret that the performance of the current CS companies is a major factor behind the uptick in port revenues in recent years, revenues the NPA now uses in its projection of ?1.28 trillion for 2025 after generating ?894.86 billion in 2024. These CS firms have digitised their operations, enabling better monitoring, quicker turnaround times, transparency in billing and verification, and reduced leakage. These innovations strengthen the NPA’s bottom line and strengthen Nigeria’s standing in maritime trade.

Yet, the NPA did not invite any of these firms to discuss performance gaps; did not issue any notice of default; and did not present any documented evidence that the contractors were found wanting before initiating the cancellation drive. The abrupt termination push was imposed without dialogue.

At a time when Nigeria needs a strong revenue front to combat fiscal deficits, external debt, currency pressure, inflation, and security challenges, the NPA’s scheme will instead weaken the very institutions meant to raise those revenues and send a dangerous signal to investors.

I respectfully call on you, Mr President, to direct the Managing Director of the NPA to cease this cancellation scheme immediately and to adhere strictly to due process. I also urge you to direct the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to resist being railroaded by the NPA leadership, to uphold procurement laws, and to ensure that any move to cancel or re-tender these contracts is done transparently and in full compliance with the Public Procurement Act.

Your administration must make it clear that government agencies will not be permitted to renege on agreements. Consistency and respect for contracts must become watchwords, for potential domestic and foreign investors are watching, and will be discouraged if binding agreements are broken at will.

It would be a shame to see revenue growth reversed or litigations initiated over failed manoeuvres attributable to executive overreach instead of reasoned policy. As someone who is committed to Nigeria’s maritime integrity, I appeal to you to restore the rule of law at the NPA before this crisis worsens.

Abegunde, convener of the Maritime Integrity Movement, writes from Lagos.

Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has applauded the position taken by Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, that his town’s culture does not favour the ‘Iyaloja’ structure.

CHRICED commended Ewuare for what it called ‘his bold and principled rejection of the imposition of the alien ‘Iyaloja’ structure on Edo State’s markets. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the defence of indigenous governance and democratic accountability in Nigeria.’

The group said this in a press statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, and sent to PMNEWS on Sunday in Lagos.

It condemned the proposal championed by Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo seeking to install Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as Iyaloja of all Edo markets.

According to the group, such an attempt was ‘to transplant a Lagos-Yoruba-rooted title into the sacred commercial spaces of the Benin Kingdom, disregarding centuries of tradition and spiritual order.’

He described the Oba’s response as courageous and culturally grounded.

‘Oba Ewuare II’s response was clear, courageous, and culturally grounded. He reaffirmed that Benin markets are governed by the Iyeki-leaders chosen by traders and confirmed by the palace.

‘These figures are not mere administrators; they are custodians of sacred shrines and emissaries of the Oba’s spiritual authority. Unlike the centralized Iyaloja-General system prevalent in the South-West, particularly in Lagos, the Benin model is decentralized, rooted in communal consensus and spiritual stewardship.

‘To undermine this system is to desecrate the very identity of the Benin people,’ the statement said.