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Army detains surrendered terrorist kingpins in Borno

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Army detains surrendered terrorist kingpins in Borno

Army detains surrendered terrorist kingpins in Borno

The Nigerian Army has recorded a major breakthrough in its counter-insurgency campaign after two senior terrorist commanders voluntarily surrendered to troops of Operation HADIN KAI in Borno State, providing valuable intelligence expected to strengthen ongoing military operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East.

Military authorities described the surrender as another significant setback for terrorist groups operating in the region, saying the information obtained from the suspects is already helping security forces identify operational cells, logistics routes and remaining insurgent hideouts.

The development was announced on Tuesday in a statement issued by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Capt. Mohammed Goni.

According to the statement, the two commanders—identified as Munzirs, a senior rank within the terrorist hierarchy—surrendered to troops of Sector 2 in Geidam, Yobe State, on July 4, 2026. They were subsequently transferred to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on July 5, where they are currently in military custody undergoing extensive screening and interrogation.

The military disclosed that the surrendered commanders are undergoing comprehensive profiling, debriefing and intelligence exploitation as part of efforts to obtain strategic information that could accelerate the fight against terrorism.

According to the Army, preliminary interrogation indicates that the two suspects occupied influential leadership positions within the terrorist organisation and possess extensive knowledge of its command structure, operational strategies, logistics network and support systems.

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Military authorities said intelligence already extracted from the suspects has provided critical insights into how the group sustains its operations, moves personnel and weapons, and coordinates attacks across the North-East.

The Army believes the intelligence will significantly improve ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at locating, disrupting and dismantling the remaining terrorist enclaves operating across the region.

The military described the surrender as another indication that sustained military offensives are weakening terrorist organisations and forcing their leaders to abandon the insurgency.

According to the statement, coordinated land and air operations conducted by Operation HADIN KAI, supported by improved surveillance and intelligence gathering, have continued to restrict the movement of insurgents, destroy logistics bases, eliminate command structures and reduce their operational capacity.

The Army noted that increasing pressure from troops has made it difficult for many terrorist fighters and commanders to remain on the battlefield, compelling them to surrender.

“The latest surrender further reinforces the growing disintegration of the terrorist organisation,” the statement said.

Military officials added that sustained offensives have continued to deny terrorists freedom of movement while disrupting their ability to recruit fighters, transport weapons and launch coordinated attacks.

The surrender of the two senior commanders follows a series of similar developments recorded by the military in recent months.

Only days earlier, Operation HADIN KAI announced that more than 76 suspected ISWAP fighters, alongside members of their families, voluntarily surrendered following sustained military offensives across parts of the North-East.

The military attributed the growing wave of defections to relentless air strikes, coordinated ground assaults and intelligence-driven operations that have destroyed terrorist camps, disrupted supply routes and isolated several insurgent leaders.

Security analysts say the surrender of senior commanders is particularly significant because they often possess strategic information capable of exposing hidden camps, financing networks, recruitment channels and planned attacks.

Counter-insurgency experts have repeatedly emphasised that intelligence obtained directly from surrendered commanders provides information that cannot always be gathered through aerial surveillance or electronic monitoring.

Military sources believe the intelligence obtained from the latest surrender will help security agencies identify remaining terrorist strongholds, recover illegal weapons and rescue civilians still held captive in remote camps.

The information may also assist troops in preventing future attacks by exposing operational plans and identifying collaborators supporting insurgent activities.

Despite recording significant gains, the Nigerian military insists that operations against terrorist groups remain ongoing.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the current operational tempo until all terrorist networks operating across the North-East are dismantled.

The military said troops will continue to leverage actionable intelligence, intensify offensive operations and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies and relevant partners to restore lasting peace, security and stability in the region.

The latest development adds to a series of operational successes recorded in recent months, including the rescue of kidnapped civilians, the destruction of terrorist camps, the recovery of arms and ammunition, and the surrender of dozens of insurgents.

Although security experts acknowledge the progress made by the armed forces, they caution that lasting peace will require sustained military operations, strengthened border security, effective intelligence sharing, community engagement and post-conflict stabilisation programmes to prevent terrorist groups from regrouping.

The Federal Government has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating terrorism and restoring normalcy across Nigeria’s North-East, maintaining that military operations will continue until all remaining terrorist cells are dismantled and displaced communities can safely return to their homes.

Army detains surrendered terrorist kingpins in Borno

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Just In: FG Announces Public Holiday – Here’s When Nigerians Will Get Break

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August 21, 2026

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Just In: FG Announces Public Holiday – Here's When Nigerians Will Get Break
Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo

Just In: FG Announces Public Holiday – Here’s When Nigerians Will Get Break

In a move that has sparked excitement across the country, the Federal Government has made an official declaration that will see workers nationwide enjoy a well-deserved break from their daily routines. The announcement, which came through the Ministry of Interior on Friday, has sent waves of anticipation through offices and businesses as citizens begin making plans for the upcoming holiday.

The Federal Government has officially declared a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Eid ul Mawlid, which marks the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). The declaration gives workers across the country a break and provides Muslim faithful an opportunity to observe the occasion with prayers, religious activities, and family gatherings. The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement issued on Friday, August 21, by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani. The announcement has been welcomed by Muslim communities across Nigeria, who are now preparing to mark the significant religious occasion with traditional observances and communal festivities.

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In his goodwill message, Tunji-Ojo extended warm felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the diaspora, while also urging all Nigerians, regardless of their religious affiliations, to use the occasion as an opportunity for introspection and moral renewal. He emphasised that the life and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad offer timeless lessons that transcend religious boundaries and speak to the universal values of humanity. The minister stated that every Eid ul Mawlid gives citizens reason to pause and draw lessons from a life defined by compassion, humility and service to others, adding that these are qualities the nation needs now more than ever. He encouraged every Nigerian, not just Muslim brothers and sisters, to reflect on them, underscoring the importance of embracing these virtues as a foundation for national transformation.

The minister stressed that the celebration period should serve as a time for collective prayer for peace, unity, and national cohesion, emphasising that the task of maintaining peace across the country requires the collective efforts of all citizens, irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds. He called on citizens to observe the celebration with restraint, mutual respect, and consideration for one another, while wishing the Muslim community a joyous and peaceful Eid. Tunji-Ojo further noted that the occasion presents an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and foster a spirit of tolerance and understanding, which are essential for the nation’s progress and development.

Reaffirming the Tinubu administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the minister assured Nigerians that the government remains dedicated to ensuring peace and stability across the nation at all times. He encouraged citizens to support initiatives designed to promote national unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, noting that sustainable development can only thrive in an environment of peace and security.

Eid ul Mawlid, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, is observed by Muslims in many parts of the world to honour the birth of Prophet Muhammad. In Nigeria, the occasion is usually marked with special prayers, religious gatherings, lectures, and charitable activities. The declaration means workers across the country will enjoy a day off from work on the designated day, giving many Nigerians an opportunity to rest, spend quality time with family, and participate in Eid ul Mawlid activities. Businesses, schools, and government offices are expected to remain closed on the holiday.

Just In: FG Announces Public Holiday – Here’s When Nigerians Will Get Break

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Dry Cleaner Pleads Guilty to Stealing Senator Ireti Kingibe’s Jewellery Worth N45.7 Million

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August 21, 2026

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Dry Cleaner Pleads Guilty to Stealing Senator Ireti Kingibe's Jewellery Worth N45.7 Million
Senator Ireti Kingibe

Abuja Dry Cleaner Pleads Guilty to Stealing Senator Ireti Kingibe’s Jewellery Worth N45.7 Million

A Chief Magistrates’ Court in Dutse, Abuja, has ordered the remand of a 52-year-old dry cleaner, Abdul Mohammed, who pleaded guilty to stealing expensive jewellery belonging to Senator Ireti Kingibe, the lawmaker representing the Federal Capital Territory in the National Assembly. The stolen items, which included gold bangles, necklaces, luxury wristwatches, and earrings, were allegedly sold by the suspect to two buyers for a total sum of N45.7 million.

Magistrate Abdullahi Ilelah gave the remand order on Friday following Mohammed’s guilty plea and adjourned the matter until September 21 for sentencing, allowing the court time to deliberate on the appropriate penalty for the offence .

The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the victim and the brazen breach of trust by a service provider who had been granted access to the senator’s residence. The prosecution told the court that Senator Kingibe, who resides in the upscale Zangon Daura Estate in Kado, Abuja, first reported the incident at the Criminal Investigation Department of the Nigeria Police Force on June 27 .

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According to the prosecution counsel, Adama Musa, the dry cleaner gained unlawful entry into the complainant’s private room, where he forcefully broke open her jewellery box and carted away an assortment of high-value items . The offence, which contravenes Section 289 of the Penal Code Law, carries prescribed punishment for theft and related property offences .

During police investigation, Mohammed reportedly confessed to the crime and disclosed that he did not act alone in disposing of the stolen assets . The defendant admitted to selling all the stolen jewellery to two buyers, identified as Suleiman Isah and Isah Yusuf, both residents of the Federal Capital Territory, for a total sum of N45.7 million . This confession formed a crucial part of the evidence linking him to the crime.

The prosecution urged the court to proceed with sentencing without further delay, citing Section 112(8) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, which empowers the court to act swiftly on guilty pleas in appropriate circumstances . The court is now expected to determine the legal consequences for the convicted dry cleaner when it reconvenes for sentencing on September 21 .

Dry Cleaner Pleads Guilty to Stealing Senator Ireti Kingibe’s Jewellery Worth N45.7 Million

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Ooni of Ife, Other South-West Monarchs, Sunday Igboho Unite for Historic Security Summit in Ekiti

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August 21, 2026

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Ooni of Ife, Other South-West Monarchs, Sunday Igboho Unite for Historic Security Summit in Ekiti
Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi and Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho

Ooni of Ife, Other South-West Monarchs, Sunday Igboho Unite for Historic Security Summit in Ekiti

In a historic show of unity, traditional rulers across the South-West geopolitical zone have finalized plans to hold a high-stakes security meeting with Yoruba nation activist and founder of the Iru Ekun Security Network, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho. The meeting, scheduled to take place today (Friday) in Ijero Ekiti, Ekiti State, marks a major turning point in regional efforts to combat rising insecurity through collaborative community-based strategies.

The high-level gathering will be hosted by the Owa Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, and presided over by the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who also serves as the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC). This convergence of royal authority and grassroots security activism underscores the urgent need for inclusive, homegrown solutions to the banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence threatening rural communities across the region.

According to a statement released by the Igboho media office on Friday, the stakeholders’ meeting will bring together monarchs from Oyo, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, Ogun, and parts of Kwara State. The breadth of representation highlights the collective determination of South-West leaders to transcend political and ethnic divisions in pursuit of lasting peace. The meeting is expected to deliberate extensively on measures aimed at ensuring effective security architecture for the South West, with particular emphasis on synergizing local initiatives such as the Iru Ekun Security Network with existing state and federal security frameworks.

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A central focus of the discussions will be the active involvement of traditional rulers in local security management. Given their deep-rooted connections to grassroots communities, monarchs are uniquely positioned to mediate disputes, gather intelligence, and foster trust between security agencies and the populace. The meeting will also address the prevention of inter-ethnic crises and the management of disputes between Yoruba communities and other ethnic nationalities residing in the South-West, reinforcing the region’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence.

In a notable departure from past tensions, the statement from Igboho’s media office commended federal security agencies—including the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other paramilitary bodies—for their “enormous support” of the Iru Ekun Security Network. The activist’s team assured the public of continued cooperation with all stakeholders in the security sector to sustain the prevailing peace and safety in the South West. This gesture of goodwill follows a significant reconciliation earlier in August 2026, when the Ooni of Ife publicly endorsed Igboho’s security initiative with a donation of ₦100 million and a Hilux vehicle, signaling a new era of collaboration between traditional institutions and civil society security advocates.

The statement specifically appreciated the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd); the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu; and the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, for their visible efforts, which have contributed to a drastic reduction in cases of insecurity and other criminalities across Nigeria. This acknowledgment reflects a growing recognition that sustainable security requires a multi-stakeholder approach, where federal agencies, state governments, traditional rulers, and community networks work in tandem.

As the South-West grapples with complex security challenges, today’s meeting in Ijero Ekiti represents more than a routine consultation—it is a bold statement of intent. By bridging the gap between traditional authority and grassroots activism, the region’s leaders are charting a pragmatic path toward safer, more resilient communities. The outcomes of this historic gathering are likely to shape the trajectory of local security governance in Yorubaland for years to come.

Ooni of Ife, Other South-West Monarchs, Sunday Igboho Unite for Historic Security Summit in Ekiti

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