Two Minors Escape From B’Haram Four Years After Abduction

Two Minors Escape From B’Haram Four Years After Abduction

The Borno State Police Command on Tuesday said it has reunited two minors, Ayuba Ishaku and Yakubu Haruna, 13, abducted by Boko Haram four years ago, with their families. A statement by the spokesperson for the command, ASP Nahum Daso, said the victims, along with other women and children, were abducted in Mandaragrau village, Biu Local Government Area of the state. The statement revealed that the two boys escaped on the night of July 8, 2025, when most of the terrorists left the camp where the boys and others were kept before leaving for an operation. It reads, “The Borno State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of the safe receipt and successful reunion of two courageous boys with their families, following their escape from Boko Haram captivity after four years of captivity. “After months of planning, the two boys took advantage of an opportunity to escape on the night of 8th July, 2025, when most of the terrorists had gone out on operations. They navigated through the bush to nearby villages and communities. “On 12th July, 2025, at about 5:30pm, two minors, (1) Ayuba Ishaku and (2) Yakubu Haruna, both approximately 13 years of age, arrived at ITE Divisional Police Headquarters, Maiduguri, and reported that they had escaped from captivity under Boko Haram terrorists.” The statement also quoted the boys as saying during interrogation that they were abducted during an attack in their village. “The boys were abducted during an attack on Mandaragrau village, Biu Local Government Area, Borno State, along with other women and children. They were later transported to Mangari, Tumbun Mota area of Baga in Kukawa LGA, where they remained in captivity. “While in captivity, the boys stated that they served as domestic aides and were trained on how to service firearms. After months of planning, the two boys took advantage of an opportunity to escape on the night of 8th July, 2025, when most of the terrorists had gone out on operations. They navigated through the bush to nearby villages and communities before they eventually found themselves in Maiduguri on the 12th of July, 2025,” Daso said. He, however, noted that upon arrival, the boys were taken into protective custody by the Police at the ITE Division, where they were provided care and protection. “Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Borno State Command, CP Naziru Abdulmajid psc, efforts were made to locate their families. Consequently, Mr. Ishaku Gaji, father of Ayuba Ishaku, was identified and he confirmed that the boys, along with other women and children, were abducted on 29th December, 2019,” the statement stated. Punch  

Buhari’s Remains Arrive Katsina Airport

Buhari’s Remains Arrive Katsina Airport

The remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari arrived at the Umar Musa Yar’adua Airport in Katsina State on Tuesday. A delegation led by President Bola Tinubu was at the airport to receive the body of the late former President, which was conveyed by the Nigerian Air Force aircraft. At the airport are governors, ministers, National Assembly members and other government officials. Buhari’s body departed London in the United Kingdom for Daura, hometown of the ex-President, ahead of a state burial in his honour. Tinubu received the remains of the former President in Katsina, ahead of his final interment. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing in Abuja. According to Idris, the body of the former president, who died on Sunday in a London hospital, is expected to arrive in Nigeria by noon on Tuesday. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will personally receive the remains of the former President in Katsina. “Upon arrival in Katsina, a brief military ceremony will be held at the airport before the body is moved to Daura. “The Jana’iza (funeral prayer) will take place thereafter, followed by interment at the late President’s residence,” Idris said. The minister said as part of national mourning, Tinubu has directed that condolence registers be opened across all Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as at Nigerian embassies and missions abroad. He said another register is to be opened at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja. Idris also noted that world leaders have continued to send in condolence messages. “The condolences coming in from Heads of State and Governments across the globe are a testament to the global stature and legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari,” he said. To ensure what he described as a “dignified and well-coordinated programme,” Idris said the President has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. The committee will work in collaboration with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family. The minister further announced that 25 members of the Federal Executive Council have been directed to proceed to Katsina for the burial rites and to remain in Daura for the Third-Day prayers scheduled for Wednesday.  

Buhari’s Body Leaves London For Nigeria

Buhari’s Body Leaves London For Nigeria

The remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday morning, departed London, the United Kingdom, for Daura, Katsina State, ahead of a state burial. The body of the late president was conveyed on a Nigerian Air Force craft. Vice President Kashim Shettima is, leading a high-level Federal Government delegation to finalise documentation and logistical arrangements for the repatriation of the ex-president’s remains. On Monday, the federal government said that President Bola Tinubu will receive the former President’s remains in Katsina ahead of his final interment in Daura, Katsina State. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja. According to Idris, the body of the former president, who died on Sunday in a London hospital, is expected to arrive in Nigeria by noon on Tuesday. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will personally receive the remains of the former President in Katsina. “Upon arrival in Katsina, a brief military ceremony will be held at the airport before the body is moved to Daura. “The Jana’iza (funeral prayer) will take place thereafter, followed by interment at the late President’s residence,” Idris said. The minister said as part of national mourning, Tinubu has directed that condolence registers be opened across all Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as at Nigerian embassies and missions abroad. He said another register is to be opened at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja. Idris also noted that world leaders have continued to send in condolence messages. “The condolences coming in from Heads of State and Governments across the globe are a testament to the global stature and legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari,” he said. To ensure what he described as a “dignified and well-coordinated programme,” Idris said the President has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. The committee will work in collaboration with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family. The minister further announced that 25 members of the Federal Executive Council have been directed to proceed to Katsina for the burial rites and to remain in Daura for the Third-Day prayers scheduled for Wednesday. Punch

FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday To Honour Buhari

FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday To Honour Buhari

  The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as a public holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holiday on behalf of the Federal Government, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu. The declaration comes as part of the ongoing seven-day national mourning period earlier announced by the President to pay tribute to Buhari’s life and legacy. Buhari died at age 82 at a clinic in London, and his death was confirmed in a statement by his former special adviser, Garba Shehu, on Sunday evening. In a statement by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, Tunji-Ojo described Buhari as a leader who served Nigeria with dedication, and integrity. He added that the public holiday is meant to offer Nigerians a moment to reflect on the late president’s contributions to the country’s democratic journey and national development. “In furtherance to the seven days of national mourning declared by President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July 2025, as a public holiday in honour of the late former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari. “The holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development. “President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. “This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld,” the statement partly read. The minister urged citizens to use the day to honour the late President’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria. “As earlier announced, the national flags are to fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning period from Sunday 13th July, 2025. “The Federal Government extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul”, the minister added. Punch  

Chelsea Defeats Paris Saint-Germain To Win The Club World Cup

Chelsea Defeats Paris Saint-Germain To Win The Club World Cup

  In an outstanding match against Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea secured a decisive 3-0 victory to claim the Club World Cup title. From the first minute to the last at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Enzo Maresca’s team performed flawlessly. PSG, who won the Champions League impressively in May, were overwhelmed by the Blues. The scoring began in the 22nd minute when Cole Palmer, the England international, guided a shot from the edge of the box into the net after being set up by Malo Gusto. Palmer continued to shine; just 8 minutes later, he doubled the lead with a near-identical finish, effortlessly entering the penalty area and finding the far corner again. Before halftime, the Blues added a third goal when Palmer made a clever pass to Joao Pedro, who expertly lifted the ball over Gianluigi Donnarumma. In the second half, goalkeeper Robert Sanchez showcased his talent with two brilliant saves, keeping PSG at bay. Chelsea also created more opportunities, but Donnarumma made excellent stops to deny substitute Liam Delap on two occasions. By that point, the damage had already been done in the opening 45 minutes. PSG struggled to mount a response, and any efforts they made were thwarted by the Blues’ defense. As the final whistle blew, joy erupted among all the Chelsea supporters inside MetLife Stadium. The Blues are world champions once again!

Makinde Mourns As President Tinubu Announces Buhari’s Passing

Makinde Mourns As President Tinubu Announces Buhari’s Passing

  Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed his condolences to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the death of his predecessor in office, former President Muhammadu Buhari. He equally commiserated with the wife of the former president, Hajia Aisha Buhari and his entire family, praying to God to grant repose to his soul. President Tinubu had announced the passing of his predecessor, President Buhari, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. President Buhari died today, Sunday, July 13, in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness. President Tinubu had reportedly spoken with the former President’s widow, Mrs Aishat Buhari, and offered his deep condolences. President Tinubu also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria. On his part, Governor Makinde, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, and made available to newsmen, described Buhari’s death as unexpected, noting, however, that the former president made his mark in serving the country. He prayed that God gives his family the fortitude to bear the loss, while also granting the former Military Head of State Aljanah Firdaus. Former President Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2019. He also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985. Meanwhile, President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.

Just In: Awujale Of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona Dies At 91

Just In: Awujale Of Ijebu, Oba Sikiru Adetona Dies At 91

The monarch passed away on Sunday, just hours after the announcement of the death of Muhammadu Buhari, his longtime friend and former president. A statement by Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun state, described the monarch’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Ijebuland but to Nigeria as a whole. Abiodun described the coincidence as “double sadness”, noting the deep friendship between the two elder statesmen. “Oba Adetona joined his ancestors today at the age of 91, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has significantly shaped Ijebuland, Ogun State and Nigeria in general,” the statement reads. Abiodun praised the monarch’s “transformative reign”, which was marked by progressive leadership, the elevation of Ijebuland’s status, and the global prominence of the Ojude Oba festival. “Throughout his reign, he was a beacon of unity, cultural preservation, and progressive development. His dedication to the welfare of his people was evident in his efforts to foster educational advancements, healthcare improvements, and economic growth within the state and Nigeria,” Abiodun said. Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, and reigned for over 64 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Nigerian history. His friendship with Buhari dated back to the 1980s and was cemented under extraordinary circumstances. In 1983, just before Buhari’s military coup, Olabisi Onabanjo, then Ogun state governor, had already signed a formal order deposing Adetona. The removal was scheduled to take effect on January 2, 1984. But the coup of December 31, 1983 — which toppled Nigeria’s civilian government — halted the plan. The close timing of the attempted deposition and the coup became a pivotal moment in the monarch’s life. Buhari’s intervention, though not targeted at the deposition, inadvertently preserved Adetona’s reign. In the years that followed, the Awujale and Buhari developed a quiet but enduring friendship built on mutual respect. Adetona went on to become a towering moral voice within Nigeria’s traditional institution. He was known for his bluntness, refusal to grovel before power, and his insistence that traditional rulers must speak truth to authority. His leadership helped entrench Ijebuland’s reputation as a beacon of culture, commerce, and political influence.

Birthday: Aare Olayinka Segelu Celebrates two Visionary Leaders, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, Hon. Kunle Yussuf, MON

Birthday: Aare Olayinka Segelu Celebrates two Visionary Leaders, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, Hon. Kunle Yussuf, MON

A gubernatorial aspirant for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State for the upcoming 2027 elections, Aare Olayinka Segelu Oladimeji, has expressed his heartfelt congratulations to two visionary leaders, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke and Hon. Kunle Yusuf, MON, on the occasion of their birthday celebrations. In a press statement he personally signed, Aare Olayinka Segelu, a Germany-based Ibadan-born businessman and ICT consultant, lauded the duo for enormous contributions and unwavering commitment to growth of PDP in Oyo State. His statement reads: “It is with great joy that I celebrate the birthdays of two remarkable quintessential leaders, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke and Hon. Kunle Yussuf, MON. Their relentless efforts in elevating our party, the PDP, deserve recognition and gratitude. “Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, our esteemed PDP Oyo State Secretary, has been a beacon of leadership since Governor Seyi Makinde took over office. His commitment to the party and his invaluable support to many within our ranks have significantly shaped our collective vision. My first encounter with him transformed my understanding; despite initial perceptions, I found him to be a candid and dedicated leader. “Equally commendable is Hon. Kunle Yussuf, whose rapid ascent in PDP leadership in Akinyele/Lagelu is a testament to his political acumen. His analysis of the political landscape since 2013 and his wealth of knowledge enable him to navigate complexities with skill. His strategic insights and tenacity are truly inspiring, and I hold profound respect for his capabilities. “As we celebrate both leaders, I wish them long lives and continued service to humanity. Their extraordinary contributions motivate me, and I look forward to collaborating with them on this political journey. “Happy birthday once again to Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke and Hon. Kunle Yussuf!”

Outrage As French Archbishop Promotes Catholic Priest Convicted Of Rape

Outrage As French Archbishop Promotes Catholic Priest Convicted Of Rape

A French archbishop’s decision to promote a priest who was sentenced to jail for raping a teenage boy has drawn new condemnation of the Roman Catholic Church for its record on sex abuse. Victim support groups and traditionalists have expressed outrage over the case of Dominique Spina, who was found guilty of raping a 16-year-old boy in 2006 and sentenced to five years in prison. The archbishop of Toulouse, Guy de Kerimel, set off the controversy in June when he named Spina as diocesan chancellor, putting him in charge of archives. The canonical code lays down that the chancellor must be “of honest reputation and above all suspicion”. Kerimel said he had acted out of “mercy” in making the appointment and that he had “nothing to reproach” the priest for in an “administrative function”. In a statement released Thursday in the face of mounting protests, Kerimel acknowledged the “incomprehension” and “questions” among Catholics but said again that without “mercy” Spina risked a “social death”. “This is in no way about downplaying a crime” and the victim must be “ “recognised and helped”, he insisted. Because of the sensitivity of the topic, Catholic leaders have been reluctant to speak publicly, but one bishop told AFP, on condition of anonymity, that the appointment was “a great shame” for the Church. “A priest convicted of serious sexual acts cannot hold a position of responsibility again. We should be able to say that,” the bishop added. In a joint statement, several groups of victims of sexual abuse in Catholic schools expressed their “deep indignation” and “anger” at the appointment. The Catholic media has also lambasted the appointment. La Croix, a Catholic daily newspaper, said that “the principle of mercy cannot be used as a hasty justification”. The traditionalist website Riposte Catholique called the appointment “unjustifiable” and said the Vatican should intervene. “Compassion does not consist of rehabilitating a condemned man to a canonical position,” commented the christian website Tribune Chretienne, known for its conservative line. France’s Catholic Church is already reeling from several sexual scandals in schools it runs and accusations of longtime sexual abuse made against Abbe Pierre, once an icon of the defence of the poor who died in 2007. The Church has set up two commissions on acknowledging and compensating for the widespread abuses uncovered by an independent inquiry released in 2021. Punch  

Nigerian Man Jailed In US For $1.3m COVID-19 Fraud

Nigerian Man Jailed In US For .3m COVID-19 Fraud

A Nigerian man living in the San Gabriel Valley, Abiola Femi Quadri, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison for defrauding California and Nevada out of $1.3m in COVID-19 pandemic unemployment and disability insurance benefits. Quadri, 43, was caught submitting more than 100 fraudulent applications using stolen identities and using the money to build a nightclub and mall in Nigeria. He was sentenced by United States District Judge George H. Wu, who also ordered him to pay $1,356,229 in restitution and a $35,000 fine. This was contained in a press statement issued by the Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, Central District of California, Ciaran McEvoy, on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Quadri is a Nigerian citizen who acquired permanent residency in the United States through what he described, according to court documents, as a “fake wedding” in messages to a woman who was not his wife. He pleaded guilty on January 2 to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The statement read, “Quadri withdrew the fraudulent unemployment and disability benefits at ATMs from 2021 until his arrest in September 2024 at Los Angeles International Airport, where he was scheduled to fly to Nigeria. Quadri sent at least $500,000 abroad during the scheme. “He also paid for the construction of a 120-room resort hotel in Nigeria, the Oyins International, which includes a nightclub, a mall, and additional high-end amenities. “Quadri failed to disclose his ownership of the hotel as required when completing his financial disclosure to the court.” Investigators found on Quadri’s phone images of 17 counterfeit checks totalling more than $3.3m, along with messages about negotiating the checks. Some of the checks were made payable to shell businesses held in the names of Quadri’s aliases. California paid Quadri to provide daycare services to developmentally disabled children through his Altadena-based business, Rock of Peace. When agents searched Quadri’s residence, they found the children’s misappropriated food-aid debit cards. The United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the California Employment Development Department Investigation Division investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Brown of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted the case. Punch