Gunmen Kidnap Pastor, Family In Ondo, Demand ₦75 Million Ransom

by

  The Ondo State Security Network Agency also known as Amotekun on Saturday confirmed the abduction of an Anglican priest, simply identified as Cannon Olowolagba, his wife and two children. The victims were reportedly kidnapped along Ise Akoko-Iboropa road in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State last Sunday. According to a source in the community, the victims were travelling in a car when the hoodlums stopped them on the road and dragged them into the bush to an unknown destination. However, the source disclosed that the bandits had contacted the family and demanded a sum of N10 million for the release of the victims. Similarly, the Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Babajide Bada, who also confirmed the incident on Saturday, on the contrary, said, the abductors had increased the ransom to N75million. The cleric said, “The unfortunate incident happened on Sunday between 4 pm and 5:30 pm. The man involved is Reverend Olowolagba. He was travelling from Ipesi with his wife, Mrs Olowolagba, and their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness Olowolagba, a 100-level student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba- Akoko who came for a holiday at home, and a nine-year-old girl staying with them, identified as Idowu. “They drove from Ipesi through Isua Akoko. And when they got to between Isua and Ise-Akoko, they were kidnapped. And we did not know, until the following morning, when their members discovered that they didn’t get to Ikaram, where they were going. And they were not also at home. “Since then, those who kidnapped them have been calling. They (bandits ) called to ask for a ransom. Later, they said N10 million. But when we gathered some money to go and secure their release, they changed to N75million. That is why the Reverend and the wife, including the two children are still there.” The Commander of the Amotekun Corps in the state, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, who also confirmed the incident, said efforts were ongoing to get the victims rescued. Adeleye said, “It is true, though the incident didn’t happen the day before yesterday, it happened last week. We are working with other security agencies to ensure we rescue the victims.” When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, said the incident was not reported at any police station in the command. Reacting, a community leader and the chairman of Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs Akoko North West Local Government, Sheik Basiru Aminu urged the people of Ikaram Akoko to intensify prayers and admonition on the quick release of the four victims who are sons and daughters of the community. Punch  

“If Cristiano Calls Me The Best, Then I am” – Vinicius Jr.

by

  Vinicius Jr., on Friday, responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s endorsement of him as the rightful Ballon d’Or winner, expressing gratitude for the praise. “Cristiano Ronaldo’s words about the Ballon d’Or? If Cristiano said I’m the best, then I am,” the Real Madrid forward said during an interview while receiving his award at the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards. Ronaldo had previously criticised the decision to award the Ballon d’Or to Manchester City midfielder Rodri, stating, “Vinicius Jr should have won the Ballon d’Or, in my opinion it was clear. It was unfair.” Ronaldo’s remarks came at the Globe Soccer Awards, where Vinicius was recognised as the Best Men’s Player and Best Forward, cementing his standing as one of football’s top talents. The Ballon d’Or outcome, which saw Rodri claim the prestigious honour for his contributions to City’s Premier League triumph and Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, sparked controversy. Real Madrid boycotted the Paris ceremony, citing what they perceived as disrespect toward Vinicius, widely regarded as the pre-ceremony favourite due to his role in Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League successes. At the Globe Soccer Awards, Vinicius shone brightly alongside other notable winners, including Jude Bellingham, who secured the Best Midfielder and Maradona Award, and Neymar Jr., honoured with the Player Career Award. Ronaldo himself was celebrated as the Top Goalscorer of All Time.

EPL: Chelsea Rule Out January Move For Osimhen – Report

by

  On Thursday , Chelsea is reportedly not planning another move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in the upcoming January transfer window, despite previous interest in the Nigerian international. The 25-year-old, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has been in sensational form, scoring 12 goals in 15 appearances across all competitions, including two in last month’s Europa League victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Osimhen’s loan move from Napoli followed a breakdown in his relationship with the Serie A club. According to The Athletic, Chelsea, who are currently second in the Premier League table, will not pursue Osimhen in January, instead prioritising a long-term strategy to strengthen their attacking options. The London club had previously made a last-minute attempt to sign the prolific striker on a season-long loan last summer, even proposing an obligation to buy. However, the move failed to materialise, and Osimhen ended up in Turkey with Galatasaray. As reported by football.london in September, Chelsea’s initial interest demonstrated their desire to secure a reliable goalscorer. However, with a well-stocked attack including Jadon Sancho, Pedro Neto, Noni Madueke, Joao Felix, and Christopher Nkunku, the Blues are believed to be holding off on bolstering their frontline in the short term. Instead, Chelsea has identified Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap as a potential future signing, with the club scouting him alongside other striker options. It is suggested that any additions in the attacking department will be revisited next summer. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Chelsea could see player exits in January to make room in their squad. Ben Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are rumoured to be among those who could leave, having struggled for regular game time under manager Enzo Maresca. Chelsea suffered a 2-1 loss to Fulham at Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day. They are set to conclude their 2024 schedule with a match against Ipswich Town on December 30.  

Four Lagos Drug Lords Jailed 28 Years, Forfeit VGC Houses

by

  Four drug kingpins involved in the historic seizure of 2,139.55 kilograms at an Ikorodu residential estate in 2022 have been sentenced by a Federal High Court in Lagos. The convicts —Soji Jubril Oke, 71; Wasiu Akinade, 55; Emmanuel Arinze Chukwu, 67; and Kelvin Christopher Smith, 44, a Jamaican— were arrested by the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency operatives in various locations across Lagos between Sunday night, September 18, and Monday morning, September 19, 2022. The arrests followed a raid at No 6 Olukuola Crescent, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos, where over 2.1 tons of cocaine were seized. This recovery remains the largest single cocaine seizure in Nigeria’s history. The convicts were charged with six counts under charge number FHC/L/607C/2022 in October and December 2022. The trial of a fifth suspect, Oguntolure Sunday, who was arraigned alongside them, is still ongoing. In a statement on Thursday, the NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed that Justice Yellim Bogoro sentenced the convicts to a combined 28 years of imprisonment with hard labour. The statement partly read, “The trial judge handed the Jamaican, Kelvin Christopher Smith, four years imprisonment with hard labour; Emmanuel Arinze Chukwu received a total of 16 years; Soji Jubril Oke was sentenced to five years with hard labour, and Wasiu Akinade got three years with hard labour. The trial judge, however, gave the convicts varying options of fines, except for one who must serve the full jail term without an option of fine. They were also ordered to forfeit a grey Toyota Tacoma SUV (registration number AAA-734HT) registered in the name of Emmanuel Chukwu, $50,000 belonging to Chukwu, ₦55,099,509.50 also belonging to Chukwu, ₦9,003,168.06 belonging to Wasiu Akinade, and ₦3,052,295.20 also belonging to Akinade.” In another development, the NDLEA secured the final forfeiture of two properties linked to the drug cartel in a suit marked FHC/L/MISC/672/2024 and filed before Justice Bogoro on December 9, 2024. Babafemi quoted the court as saying, “An order of final forfeiture and confiscation is granted in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria for Landed Property/House Number 6 Olokunola Street, Solebo Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos State, used for the storage and concealment of 2,139.55kg of cocaine, an illicit substance. “An order of final forfeiture and confiscation is also granted in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria for Landed Property/House Number J9, Road 3, Close 1, Victoria Garden City Estate, Lagos State, reasonably believed to have been purchased with proceeds from drug trafficking. “An order is granted directing the sale or disposal of the forfeited properties by any lawful means, with the proceeds paid to the Federal Government of Nigeria.”

Customer Abducts Seven-Year-Old Daughter Of Ogun PoS Operator

by

  The family of a seven-year-old girl, Mercy Akande, has raised the alarm over her disappearance in the Sango Ota area of Ogun State. PUNCH Metro learnt on Thursday that the incident happened on Monday close to where the girl’s mother operated a Point of Sale terminal in the community. It was gathered that a yet-to-be-identified male adult said to be the mother’s regular customer visited the shop, bought food for the seven-year-old girl, and later sent her on an errand to buy a sachet of water. On her return, the customer left the spot and approached her midway in an attempt to collect the water sachet. The nephew of the victim who identified himself simply as Jude told our correspondent on Thursday that the mother sighted both of them at that moment but was distracted by the attention of other customers. Jude said by the time she turned towards the daughter’s direction to check what was happening, both of them were nowhere to be found. He said, “The man had been visiting her store regularly to withdraw money and buy recharge cards. He had become friendly with the girl and would often buy her food and give her money. He doesn’t stay in the area. On Monday morning, which was December 23, the man visited the stall again and bought food for himself and the girl. “While the mother was busy attending to other customers, the man sent the girl to buy pure water. On her way back, he approached her halfway to get the sachet water from her. The mum saw this and wasn’t comfortable with it but was distracted by the attention of other customers. By the time she turned towards the daughter’s direction to check what was happening, the guy and her daughter were nowhere to be found.” Jude said the mother immediately launched a search for her daughter but did not find her. He added that repeated calls made to the man’s phone were not responded to while his line was no longer reachable. The girl’s cousin had through his X handle, Miyakee, disclosed that the incident was reported at the nearest police station in the community. He stated that the mother was asked to pay N10,000 to report the case and also told to bring N30,000 to track the man’s phone number. “We have reported to a police station in Sango and the struggling mom has been asked to pay a total of 10k to report the case (she has done that). And to bring N30,000 for the guy’s phone number to be tracked. She’ll be going back there tomorrow to pay. “As it is now. Work has not even started. She only paid N8000 to write her statement at the station and a total of N2000 to print out pictures of the missing girl. Then to track the phone number, she has to pay the sum of N30,000 and get a court affidavit to take to MTN office,” he wrote. He however lamented that efforts to get a court affidavit were not successful due to the holiday. When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, did not respond to calls made to her phone. She had yet to reply to a WhatsApp message sent to her as of the time this report was filed.

10 Killed In Sokoto Bombing: Military Denies Blame As Residents Voice Outrage

by

  An airstrike in two Sokoto communities, Gidan Bisa and Runtuwa, has left 10 civilians dead, sparking conflicting accounts between local authorities and the military. The incident, which occurred at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, saw bombs dropped by military jets reportedly pursuing bandits in Silame Local Government Area. The council chairman, Hon. Abubakar Gitta Rana, disclosed that the airstrike also killed livestock, describing it as an “erroneous” attack on innocent villagers. In contrast, the Joint Task Force (JTF) North West, Operation Fasan Yamma, insisted the operation targeted Lakurawa terrorists and denied hitting civilian structures. A statement by Lt. Col. Abdullahi Abubakar emphasized that the airstrike was justified, cautioning against misinformation spread by terrorist groups and collaborators. Governor Ahmed Aliyu, accompanied by state APC leader Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and Labour Minister Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, visited the affected communities to condole with victims’ families. He participated in funeral prayers for the deceased and described the incident as a tragic mistake. “The jets were on a mission to eliminate criminal groups but mistakenly bombed innocent civilians. This is unfortunate, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent future occurrences,” Aliyu stated. The state government announced a donation of ₦20 million and 100 bags of foodstuffs to assist the bereaved families. It also pledged to cover the medical expenses of those injured in the airstrike. The tragedy highlights the challenges of precision in military operations and raises questions about accountability in counterterrorism efforts.

Ibadan Stampede: Naomi’s Mother Decries Ex-Queen’s Detention, Seeks Tinubu’s Intervention

by

  Mrs. Funmilayo Ogunseyi, the mother of Naomi Silekunola, a former wife of the Ooni of Ife, has called on President Bola Tinubu and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene in her daughter’s legal troubles. Silekunola is among three individuals taken before the Iyaganku Magistrate Court in Ibadan in connection with a tragic funfair stampede that resulted in the death of 35 children last week. The court has since ordered the remand of the accused in prison on charges bordering on conspiracy, negligent acts causing harm, and failure to provide adequate security and medical facilities at the event. In an emotional video that has gone viral, Mrs. Ogunseyi pleaded for mercy, asserting that her daughter’s intentions were purely humanitarian. According to her, Naomi had organised numerous outreach programmes over the past decade to assist the needy, elderly, children, and pregnant women across Nigeria. She lamented that her daughter’s goodwill had inadvertently led to the stampede and subsequent deaths. “Have mercy on me. Mothers have mercy. Come to my rescue. Don’t let my life be destroyed. My child only came to Ibadan to help the needy; this was not her first time. We have travelled across the country helping children and the vulnerable. I sympathise with the families who lost their children; it was never our intention. Please, don’t let Naomi be imprisoned—she is innocent. She only came to show compassion,” Ogunseyi said tearfully. She recounted the events leading to the tragedy, noting that crowds had gathered hours before the programme’s scheduled start time of 10 a.m. According to her, the stampede began around 6:30 a.m., long before Naomi arrived at the venue. Mrs. Ogunseyi further revealed that Naomi, who was reportedly unwell, fainted during police interrogation and remains in custody despite her fragile health. “The programme was meant to begin at 10 a.m., but people started arriving the day before. By 6:30 a.m., the crowd became uncontrollable. Naomi wasn’t even there yet. I received a call about the chaos while still asleep. My phone number was on the event flyer, so I was the one contacted. Naomi, her elder brother, and I immediately went to the police station to report the incident, but she was detained and later charged with murder,” Ogunseyi narrated. Breaking down in tears, Ogunseyi appealed to President Tinubu and other influential Nigerians to intervene. She claimed that her daughter’s predicament was orchestrated by “powerful persons.” “They have taken my child to prison. The court was full of policemen. I don’t know where else to turn. They say her ordeal is an ‘order from above.’ Please, I beg those in power to release her. She is not a killer; she came to help. Naomi is fragile and sick. President Tinubu, I beg you, come to our aid,” she implored. Mrs. Ogunseyi also expressed her condolences to the families of the deceased children, emphasising that the tragedy was unintended.

Christmas: Purified Entertainment Boss, Agboola Babawale Preaches Love, Peace, Unity •••Lauds Journalists, OAPs, Others For Support

by

  The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Purified Entertainment Company Limited, Mr Agboola Babawale Segun Popularly known as “Handy” has congratulated Christian faithful across the world on the occasion of Christmas and New Year celebrations. Agboola Babawale Segun an Ibadan-born showbiz entrepreneur who also doubles as the Director General of the Purified Entertainment Record Label urged the good people of Oyo state and Nigerians in general to embrace love, peace and unity as they commemorate the birth of Christ, describing the virtues as the real essences of Christmas. Mr Babawale in a Christmas message made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Capital City of Oyo State on Tuesday to Christian faithful emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence in nation building. He acknowledged the socio-economic challenges faced by the country at the moment and encouraged Oyo state residents and Nigerians at large to extend a hand of love and kindness to one another, especially to those in need, assuring that government policies would eventually deliver the much needed succour and economic restoration. “I pray that the joy of Christmas be a source of comfort for those who grieve and an eternal flame that lights our path as a nation,” he stated. Babawale through the Christmas message also appreciated members of the fourth estate of the realm, especially the entertainment journalists in the state, the On Air Personalities (OAPs), Continuity Announcers, as well as all other critical stakeholders in entertainment sector for the massive support received in the current year which has led to numerous successes recorded so far at company. Babawale stated, “I’m using this festive season to acknowledge the efforts of all our stakeholders in the entertainment industry, this year has been a very engaging and productive one, this is made possible through the commitment and support we received from members of the fourth estate of the realm, this includes our dedicated entertainment reporters, Bloggers, v-bloggers, our On Air Personalities, the Continuity Announcers, the hype men, event planners, the DJs, our bouncers, and other stakeholders. “All our achievements recorded in this year so far would have not been made possible if not for your support and understanding, you all keyed into our vision and we regards to you all as critical stakeholders in our brand. “As we look forward into more positive energies from you all in the coming year 2025, on behalf of me, and the entire crew of Purified Entertainment Company Limited, we are wishing you a Merry Christmas and prosperous new year.” “The message of Christmas is one that speaks to the exigency of every moment. It enjoins us to show love and empathy to all. As Christians across the world celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, may the message of joy inherent in Christmas radiate in our lives and in our dear nation. “When we imbibe the true message of Christmas, which is love, peace, and unity, we will see no divisions, but a common thread of humanity. Being an end-of-year festivity, Christmas is often an auspicious time to re-dedicate ourselves to the virtues of peace, patriotism and love. He wished Nigerians a happy and hitch-free Christmas celebration.

Hon. Olayinka Segelu Hails Governor Makinde At 57 … Describes Him As A Transformational Leader And Performing Governor

by

  A Germany-based chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Chairman/CEO of YSEG Hotels and Suites Ibadan, Hon Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu, has applauded the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his unalloyed commitment and dedication towards the growth and development of the Pace Setter State. Hon Olayinka, an ICT consultant, philanthropist and politician of high repute, gave the applause while congratulating the governor on the occasion of his 57th birthday. In a congratulatory message to Makinde, the PDP stalwart hoping to occupy the Oyo governorship seat in 2027, said: “Today, we gather to celebrate an extraordinary leader, a visionary, and a man of the people—His Excellency, Governor Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde—as he marks his 57th birthday. “On behalf of myself, my family, the Segelu Dynasty, and the entire members of Igbega Apapo Oyo State (IAOS), I extend my warmest wishes to you, sir. “Your unwavering dedication to the progress and development of Oyo State continues to inspire us all. Your transformational leadership, humility, and deep commitment to the welfare of the people have set you apart as a beacon of hope and a true servant of the masses. “As you celebrate this special day, we pray that God continues to grant you wisdom, strength, and good health to steer Oyo State towards greater heights. May your life always be filled with joy, fulfillment, and the love of the people whose lives you have positively impacted. “Happy 57th birthday, Your Excellency! May your new year be as remarkable and impactful as the legacy you are building. “I am deeply committed to taking over the mantle of leadership from you and continuing the remarkable work you started at the end of your second term as allowed by the 1999 constitution. Thank you for standing by your word and making it clear that you are paving the way for the younger generation. I have positioned myself to be of service, driven by your commitment to empower the youth. As a strong supporter of your political vision, I have contributed my resources without seeking anything in return, motivated solely by the desire to see Oyo State thrive. “I pray that God continues to endow you with the wisdom, knowledge, and understanding that you have graciously shared. I wish you long life and prosperity, sir.”

Bodija Explosion: Makinde Sets Up Relief Disbursement Committee, Calls For Prompt Action

by

  Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated the committee on the management/disbursement of Bodija Explosion Relief Fund. The governor charged the members of the committee to ensure transparency in carrying out their responsibilities to those that were affected by the incident. Governor Makinde, who inaugurated the 10-man committee on Tuesday, said its job is to oversee the management and disbursement of the relief fund to those who lost properties to the explosion. Recall that on January 16, 2024, an explosion rocked Dejo Oyelese Street, Bodija Ibadan, which was later found out to be due to illegal storage of mining devices. Governor Makinde stressed that the government is providing support to the people affected and not compensation, noting that his administration is interested in doing the right thing for the people of the state. He equally added that the road to the Dejo Oyelese Street the scene of the explosion will be fixed while a monument will also be erected around the area. The governor appreciated the various professional bodies that worked with the state when the incident happened for their support, charging them to incorporate people that would work efficiently with the committee and put the resources where needed. The committee is made up of the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. bdulraheem Bayo Lawal (chairman); a former deputy governor of Oyo State and Chairman, Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group, Chief Iyiola Oladokun; Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose, Chairman, Bodija Estate Residents Association; Alhaji Gafar Bello, Executive Assistant on Finance, Budget and Planning; Mrs Ojuolape Busari, Secretary, Oyo State Emergency Management Agency. Others are nominee of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr Ibrahim Lawal; nominee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr Oluseye Ojo; nominee of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Ibrahim Bello; nominee of Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group, Mrs Arinola Olanipekun and the nominee of the Bodija Estate Residents Association, Mr David Afolayan. In attendance at the inauguration were former deputy governor of Oyo State, Engr Hamid Gbadamosi; wife of former Oyo State governor, Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja; former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sumonu; Chief of Staff to the governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; Commissioners and Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal. Others were the Special Adviser to the governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), Oyo State PDP Secretary, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke; co-chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Chief Wole Oyelese; and chairman of local government chairmen in Oyo State, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, among other dignitaries.

Stay Informed. Stay Ahead

Get breaking news and top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Get the Morning Briefing

Tops stories from Nigeria delivered free to your inbox every day.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Your No 1 Trusted News Source 

Email info@citybuzz.com 

Web Citybuzznews.com

LEGAL

SECTIONS

©Copyright Citybuzz News. All rights reserved.