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Schoolchildren Abductions: Pastor Ibiyeomie Drops Bombshell, Names Sponsors

Published

3 months ago

June 4, 2026

Pastor David Ibiyeomie

Schoolchildren Abductions: Pastor Ibiyeomie Drops Bombshell, Names Sponsors

The founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has dropped a bombshell allegation that politicians are actively sponsoring the kidnapping of schoolchildren across Nigeria, as the nation grapples with a worsening abduction crisis that has seen over 600 students and teachers taken from their classrooms since 2024.

Speaking during a fiery church service that has since gone viral across social media platforms, the outspoken cleric did not hold back as he tackled the growing insecurity head-on, questioning why security agencies—particularly the Department of State Services (DSS) —have been unable to apprehend those responsible despite possessing advanced tracking technologies. Ibiyeomie made the explosive claim amid a recent wave of abductions involving students and teachers in states such as Sokoto and Oyo, which has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed calls for urgent school safety reforms.

Standing confidently in his signature white attire before his congregation, Ibiyeomie declared that the kidnappers could not possibly be carrying out such large-scale operations without the backing of powerful and influential individuals. He argued that the brazen nature of the abductions—where victims are publicly displayed and ransom demands are widely circulated—points to the involvement of high-profile sponsors who operate with impunity. “They are not just picking these children without sponsors. Politicians must be behind it; they cannot abduct children and publicly display their pictures without support from powerful people,” Ibiyeomie declared to his congregation. The pastor’s comments have since ignited intense debate across Nigeria, with many citizens demanding that security agencies investigate his allegations while others call for concrete evidence to back the claims against political figures.

The clergyman directed sharp criticism at the Department of State Services (DSS) , questioning why the agency has failed to track and arrest the perpetrators despite its technological capabilities and legal mandate. He argued that modern surveillance, phone tracking, and geolocation technologies should make it possible to locate anyone making calls or sending messages in connection with these crimes, yet no arrests have been made. “Do you know that even the DSS can track people and know where they are, so how come they are not tracking these kidnappers?” Ibiyeomie queried during his sermon. The pastor further suggested that the continued success of kidnappers—who operate freely across multiple states—points to the strong possibility of hidden forces actively aiding their operations and shielding them from arrest. “There must be an invisible hand behind it because if you are calling from anywhere, they would know the spot where you are, so how come in Nigeria nobody is ever caught?” he added.

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The pastor’s allegations come against the backdrop of alarming statistics that reveal the true scale of Nigeria’s school abduction crisis under the current administration. According to a media tally compiled from verified reports, no fewer than 603 students and teachers have been kidnapped in seven mass abductions across schools in Nigeria between March 2024 and May 2026 under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. These figures represent only the major incidents and do not account for smaller, unreported abductions in remote communities. The repeated attacks have raised serious questions over the effectiveness of the N145 billion Safe Schools Initiative, a fund introduced after the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction to protect educational institutions across the country. Stakeholders have repeatedly blamed weak implementation, lack of basic infrastructure such as perimeter fencing and guard posts, poor security presence in rural schools, and insufficient coordination between federal and state governments for the continued vulnerability of Nigerian schools.

On March 7, 2024, armed men on motorcycles attacked LEA Primary and Secondary School in Kuriga, Kaduna State, abducting 137 schoolchildren in one of the largest mass abductions of the year. Just two days later, on March 9, 2024, gunmen stormed a Tsangaya (Islamic) school in Gidan Bakuso, Sokoto State, abducting 15 students in a raid that highlighted the vulnerability of non-formal education institutions. In November 2025, a deeply troubling incident saw 25 schoolgirls abducted from Maga Comprehensive Girls’ Secondary School in Kebbi State, raising fresh fears about the safety of female students in northern Nigeria. Later in 2025, a staggering 303 students and 12 teachers were abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, marking one of the largest single abductions in recent memory. On May 15, 2026, armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 39 students and seven teachers. Two teachers—Michael Oyedokun, who reportedly died while in captivity, and Adesiyan Adegboye, who lost his life during the attack—were killed, along with one pupil. Just two days after the Oyo attack, on May 17, 2026, 42 students were abducted after suspected Boko Haram fighters invaded a school in Mussa, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, underscoring the persistent threat of Islamist insurgent groups targeting educational institutions.

Switching from political criticism to spiritual warfare, the fiery cleric turned to the Bible to declare divine judgment on all those involved in the criminal enterprise of kidnapping schoolchildren. Quoting Ezekiel 35:6, Ibiyeomie prayed passionately over his congregation: “Everyone sponsoring this evil in Nigeria, let them and their children die by blood,” warning that the sword of judgment would never depart from the wicked. His imprecatory prayer has since sparked heated debate online, with some applauding his boldness while others question the appropriateness of praying for death upon alleged perpetrators. This is not the first time the Salvation Ministries founder has made such dramatic declarations against kidnappers. In a November 2025 video shared on his official Facebook page, Ibiyeomie declared that any kidnapper who abducts a member of his church would die within seven days. “Any kidnapper who dared you before will die in seven days. Anyone that dares any member of Salvation Ministry or any of our loved ones, by Sunday this week, I pronounce them dead,” he had said in the viral video that attracted millions of views.

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Meanwhile, members of the Oyo State House of Assembly have firmly rejected calls for the state government to negotiate with kidnappers over the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Ogbomoso on May 15. The lawmakers insisted that the focus must remain on intensified rescue operations, intelligence-led security action, and sustained pressure on the abductors until all victims are freed unharmed. Speaking during plenary, the Speaker of the Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, warned that negotiating with kidnappers would set a dangerous precedent that could encourage further attacks and strengthen criminal networks across the state and beyond. “We cannot reward criminality with negotiation. That will only embolden them to strike again,” Ogundoyin was quoted as saying.

The abduction crisis has sparked nationwide protests coordinated by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) across the Federal Capital Territory and multiple states including Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Benue, Adamawa, Taraba, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Osun, Lagos, Niger, and several others. Teachers wearing red armbands have taken to the streets in major cities, demanding immediate government action to secure the release of abducted colleagues and students and to implement lasting safety measures in all schools. In the National Assembly, the Senate resumed plenary after the Sallah recess and observed a one-minute silence in honour of the victims of school abductions. Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the Oyo incident as an attack on Nigeria’s collective humanity, stating: “We resume our work under the mournful shadow of a tragedy that has shaken our nation. The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State is not merely an attack on innocent citizens; it is an assault on our collective humanity.” In the House of Representatives, lawmakers called on the Federal Government and security agencies to immediately secure the release of abducted schoolchildren across the country. They also demanded the urgent implementation of a comprehensive national Safe Schools Security Framework to protect educational institutions nationwide, with specific timelines and accountability measures.

At the time of filing this report, the Department of State Services (DSS) had not issued any official response to Pastor Ibiyeomie’s allegations regarding political sponsorship of school abductions or his questioning of the agency’s tracking capabilities. The agency has historically maintained a policy of not commenting on operational matters or public accusations. However, civil society organizations and concerned citizens have continued to demand transparency and accountability from security agencies as the wave of abductions shows no sign of abating. As Nigeria continues to grapple with this deepening crisis, all eyes remain on security agencies to track down the perpetrators, rescue the remaining captives, and bring an end to the nightmare that has seen hundreds of innocent children torn from their classrooms and held in captivity for weeks and months.

Schoolchildren Abductions: Pastor Ibiyeomie Drops Bombshell, Names Sponsors

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Osun Police Arrest Woman After Vigilante Member Dies During Sexual Encounter in Ile-Ife

Published

2 hours ago

September 8, 2026

Trends Admin

Osun Police Arrest Woman After Vigilante Member Dies During Sexual Encounter in Ile-Ife

Authorities have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a vigilante member in Ile-Ife who died shortly following a sexual encounter, as conflicting accounts emerge about what caused the tragedy.

The Osun State Police Command has arrested a woman in connection with the sudden death of a local vigilante member, identified as Sunday and popularly known as Apetu, who died shortly after a sexual encounter in Ile-Ife. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. in the Ooni Ilare area, within the Odi-Olokun Division of Ile-Ife, and has generated considerable attention in the community due to conflicting explanations surrounding the man’s sudden death.

According to a situation report attributed to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) , Apetu was found in a state of severe physical distress after the encounter, gasping and screaming while pleading with the woman. A video recorded at the scene and circulated on social media shows the deceased in distress, heard pleading with the woman to give him urine. The woman involved in the incident was reportedly taken into custody at the Moore Police Division in Ile-Ife as authorities commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the death.

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The cause of Apetu’s death has not been officially established, despite claims by some residents that he died from what they described as a “thunderbolt.” This belief centres on a traditional claim that a person affected by a supposed “thunderbolt” spell could harm another person through sexual contact. However, authorities have not confirmed the claim or established any link between the traditional belief and the man’s death, emphasizing that such claims remain matters of traditional belief and have not been established as a medical or scientific explanation for the death.

Following the incident, Apetu’s remains were deposited at the morgue of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife. When contacted over reports circulating on social media, a senior police officer from the Osun State Police Command said he was aware of the rumours but cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified information. The command said no conclusion should be drawn from social media accounts until investigations establish what actually happened.

The NSCDC spokesperson, ASC I Kehinde Adeleke, also confirmed the incident when contacted. Authorities have urged residents and community leaders to remain calm and avoid sensational claims capable of causing panic while allowing the police and relevant medical authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the death. The arrest of the woman is not an indication that she caused Apetu’s death, as authorities are yet to publicly establish the cause of death or announce any criminal charge against her.

Osun Police Arrest Woman After Vigilante Member Dies During Sexual Encounter in Ile-Ife

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Lagos arraigns over 100 suspects after 130 arrested in Lekki, Ajah raid

Published

2 hours ago

September 8, 2026

Trends Admin

Lagos arraigns over 100 suspects after 130 arrested in Lekki, Ajah raid

The Lagos State Government has arraigned more than 100 suspects before the Lagos State Special Offences Mobile Court following a security operation that led to the arrest of about 130 people in parts of Victoria Island, Lekki and Ajah.

The suspects were brought before the court sitting in Bolade, Oshodi, on allegations bordering on breach of public peace, unlawful conversion of government property for personal use and conduct likely to cause a breakdown of law and order.

The arrests followed an early-morning enforcement operation conducted on Friday, September 4, 2026, by operatives of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA).

The operation, which began between 2am and 4am, was reportedly carried out along the Victoria Island-Lekki-Ajah axis and parts of the Coastal Road.

According to the state government, the operation was launched as part of efforts to address alleged criminal activities and maintain public safety in the affected areas.

The LNSA General Manager, Dr Ifalade Oyekan, led the operation, which was supported by officials of Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) and an armed detachment of the Nigeria Police Force.

The operation was also facilitated by the Chief Security Officer to the Lagos State Governor, Kunle Fagbemi.

Following the arrests, the suspects were screened and profiled as part of the process of determining those who would face prosecution.

The government had described those arrested as suspected hoodlums, but the allegations against individual defendants remain subject to determination by the court.

During the court proceedings, the prosecution was led by Oluwabusola Omotunde on behalf of the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

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The prosecution told the court that the defendants were arrested during the overnight operation and subsequently brought before the Mobile Court to answer the charges against them.

Some of the defendants pleaded guilty to the charges, while others pleaded not guilty.

The Chief Magistrate of the Mobile Court, F.J. Adefioye, stressed the importance of deterrence while ensuring that the proceedings complied with due process.

Defendants who pleaded guilty to Counts I and II were sentenced to one month and two months of community service or imprisonment, respectively. The sentences were ordered to run consecutively.

However, defendants who pleaded not guilty were granted bail with two sureties each, pending further proceedings in their respective cases.

The arrests and subsequent arraignment form part of the Lagos State Government’s broader efforts to tackle activities it considers capable of threatening public order and safety.

The LNSA said the operation was also intended to protect residents, motorists and legitimate businesses operating along some of the state’s busiest corridors.

The agency said it had received reports of criminal activities allegedly targeting motorists, particularly during periods of traffic congestion, prompting the enforcement action.

Oyekan said the agency would continue to work with residents and other security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and respond to security concerns across communities.

He also indicated that similar joint operations could be sustained at strategic locations across Lagos as part of efforts to deter criminal activities.

The LNSA management has also linked its community policing strategy to the state’s broader push for stronger grassroots security and improved response to security threats.

Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Lagos State Special Offences Mobile Court, Olufemi Adekunle, said the court would continue to handle cases brought before it in accordance with the law.

Adekunle reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order while protecting residents, businesses and public spaces across Lagos.

He added that similar Mobile Court sittings would continue across the state to ensure that alleged offenders were promptly brought before the court.

The latest development comes amid renewed enforcement activities across Lagos aimed at curbing public disorder and other activities authorities consider a threat to safety.

For the defendants who pleaded not guilty, the allegations remain unproven until the court reaches a final determination.

Lagos arraigns over 100 suspects after 130 arrested in Lekki, Ajah raid

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NNPC Disowns Cannabis-Laden Tanker, Threatens Legal Action Over Brand Misuse

Published

6 hours ago

September 8, 2026

Trends Admin

NNPC Disowns Cannabis-Laden Tanker, Threatens Legal Action Over Brand Misuse

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has distanced itself from a 20,000-litre fuel tanker intercepted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) with 2,145 kilogrammes of cannabis concealed in a secret compartment in Ondo State, while threatening legal action against those behind the alleged unauthorised use of its corporate identity.

The company, in a statement issued on Monday by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, said preliminary checks revealed that the vehicle, with registration number MKA 960 XC, was neither owned by NNPC Ltd. nor part of its official fleet or that of any of its authorised dealers. The logo displayed on the vehicle was also inconsistent with the company’s current official branding, and the truck was not listed in its asset database.

The operation took place on September 4, 2026, along the Akoko–Lokoja Expressway in Ondo State after NDLEA operatives reportedly pursued the tanker when its driver refused to stop for inspection. According to the agency, the driver later abandoned the vehicle at a church premises in Ugbe Akoko and fled into the bush. A search of the tanker uncovered 165 bags of cannabis weighing 2,145kg concealed in a false compartment alongside what the NDLEA described as a legitimate fuel cargo destined for Jos, Plateau State. The agency noted that the tanker had allegedly evaded arrest in previous operations.

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NNPC said it was engaging with the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to obtain further information and establish the circumstances surrounding the use of its old branding on the vehicle. The company vowed to take the matter seriously, warning that it would explore legal action against individuals or syndicates attempting to exploit its corporate identity as a cover for criminal operations. “NNPC Ltd. takes any unauthorised use of its corporate identity seriously, particularly where such use may be associated with unlawful activity. The Company remains committed to protecting the integrity of its brand and ensuring that its name, trademarks and other corporate identifiers are not misused.” The national oil company said it would cooperate fully with the NDLEA and other relevant security agencies in investigating the incident, including determining the actual ownership and operation of the truck and how NNPC markings came to be displayed on it.

NNPC commended the NDLEA for its vigilance and professionalism in uncovering the illicit consignment. The company reiterated its support for the NDLEA’s efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and pledged to provide all necessary cooperation to ensure that the facts surrounding the incident were conclusively established. The company also urged members of the public and relevant authorities to verify the ownership or affiliation of vehicles purporting to belong to NNPC through appropriate official channels.