Pastor arrested over brutal attack on Muslim family in Iseyin - Newstrends
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Pastor arrested over brutal attack on Muslim family in Iseyin

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Pastor arrested over brutal attack on Muslim family in Iseyin

Pastor Busari Stephen of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Oke Imuse, Iseyin, who connived with his military officer son, Damilola Stephen and 19 others to invade and brutally attack a Muslim man, Sulaimon Abdulazeez and his two niqabi (veiled) wives, has been arrested.

He was detained at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), of the Iyaganku Police station, Ibadan Oyo State capital.

The pastor’s arrest was confirmed to Muslim News on Wednesday, June 26, by Barrister Abdul Waheed Olowonjaye Esq., counsel to the petitioner, who added that he and his accomplices are being charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, house-breaking, stealing, and criminal assault against Mr. Sulaiman and his family.

He said, “I can confirm to you that the Pastor has been arrested on Tuesday, June 25 and he is being detained at Iyaganku State CID.

“Others who are involved in the brutal attack will be apprehended soonest, in shaa Allah. Thereafter, we will be approaching the court.”

Muslim News had earlier reported how the Pastor’s son, Damilola Stephen, a soldier with identification no 23NA/85/11522 together with 19 others suspected to be fake soldiers on Sunday, June 16, the day of Eid-Al-Adha, stormed the residence of the victims at Olobide Villa and attacked them with dangerous weapons shortly after they returned from the Eid (praying) ground.

In a widely circulating video obtained by Newstrends, the victims narrated how the soldiers bombarded their home with knives, batons, and sharp rods among others, adding that they forced their way into the premises which was locked.

They battered the husband severally and dragged one of the wives, who is heavily pregnant, while the other wife’s head was smashed.

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The violent attack on the innocent and helpless Muslim family has continued to attract spontaneous reactions from individuals and Muslim organisations across the country, as they demanded justice for the victims and called for the arrest of the culprits.

It’s a clear manifestation of religious intolerance: Al-Mu’minaat

In a press statement to condemn the attack on the Muslim family, the Oyo State chapter of Al-Mu’minaat (the Believing Muslim Women Organisation), described the incident as a clear manifestation of religious intolerance and abuse of power by the military officers contracted to execute the denigration of the status of an innocent family.

According to the State Amirah, Hajia Rafah Bakrin, “We are deeply disturbed and outraged by the recent incident that occurred on Ileya Day. A Muslim cleric, his wife and children were brutally beaten and inhumanly injured by soldiers at the behest of a pastor whose church neighbours the residence of the family , merely for carrying out the religious act of slaughtering a ram in front of his own house as part of the Islamic rites of Ileya festival.

“This deplorable act of violence perpetrated by the pastor of the church neighbouring the family’s residence took place on what should have been a joyous day of celebration for the affected family and the Muslim community of Iseyin at large.

“It is even more egregious that the violence was incited by a pastor and carried out by some military officers sworn to protect the citizens at the beckon of the pastor. Among the victims, was the pregnant wife of the Muslim cleric, whom, along with other members of the family, was severely scourged.

“This is not only a gross violation of human rights but also a blatant disregard for the sanctity of life and the principles of religious tolerance and mutual respect.

“We unequivocally condemn this act of violence. It is a clear manifestation of religious intolerance and abuse of power by the military officers contracted to execute the denigration of the status of an innocent family. Such actions threaten the peace and harmony that we strive to maintain in our religiously diverse community.

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The Muslim women’s organisation called on relevant government authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

“Those found responsible, including the pastor who instigated the violence and the soldiers who carried it out, must be held accountable to face the music. Again, adequate compensation and medical attention must be provided to all victims, including the pregnant woman who suffered such inhumane treatment.

“The government and security agencies must protect all citizens’ rights to practice their religion freely and without fear of persecution or violence, just like religious leaders and community members should engage in constructive dialogue to promote mutual respect and understanding among different faith communities.

“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continuous efforts towards fostering a society where peace, respect, and tolerance are upheld. We stand in solidarity with the victims and pledge to continue advocating justice, human rights, and religious harmony as enshrined in the constitution of the nation.

“We will, as an Islamic organisation for the rights of women and children, stop at nothing in securing justice for the affected member of our organisation in this incidence, just as we will do for any other woman in Oyo State.”

Hold perpetrators accountable, Al-Akhwat Muslimat tells security agencies

Another Muslim group, Al-Akhwaatul  Muslimaat Organisation, Oyo State Chapter, said it’s outraged and saddened by the vicious attack on a Muslim family, noting, “We strongly condemn this heinous crime and demand justice for the victims.

In the statement, the Amirah of the Organisation in Oyo, Alhaja Bashirat Hashim disclosed that the attack on veiled women is particularly egregious, as they are entitled to respect and dignity.

She urged the authorities to hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure the safety and well-being of the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State.

Pastor arrested over brutal attack on Muslim family in Iseyin

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Police Officer Arrested After Shooting Handcuffed Suspect Dead in Viral Video

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police officer kills handcuffed suspect in Delta

Police Officer Arrested After Shooting Handcuffed Suspect Dead in Viral Video

A wave of outrage has trailed a disturbing incident in Delta State where a police officer allegedly shot and killed a handcuffed suspect during an operation in the Effurun area. The incident, captured in a viral video, has sparked nationwide condemnation and renewed concerns over police conduct.

The footage, which has circulated widely on social media, shows the suspect seated on the ground with his hands tied behind his back with a rope while surrounded by armed officers of the Nigeria Police Force.

Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi

Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi

In the video, the suspect is heard pleading for his life in Pidgin English, insisting he was misled by a friend in Sapele, Delta State, and offering to lead officers to the person. He repeatedly begged not to be shot.

“Officers, abeg, I go tell you everything. Na my friend deceive me. E dey Sapele. I go carry you go the place,” he is heard saying as he cried and pleaded for mercy.

Despite being restrained and posing no visible threat, one of the officers—reportedly dressed in mufti—was seen cocking a rifle before firing directly at the suspect at close range. The man immediately collapsed as bystanders watched in shock.

After the shooting, officers were seen carrying the body into a Toyota Sienna vehicle marked “Nigeria Police Force, Effurun Area Command, Uvwie.”

The Delta State Police Command confirmed the incident and identified the deceased as Mene Ogidi, 28. Police spokesperson Bright Edafe said the officer involved, ASP Nuhu Usman, has been arrested and transferred for disciplinary action.

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According to the police, operatives from the Effurun Area Command acted on intelligence suggesting the suspect was linked to illegal movement of a firearm, allegedly a Beretta pistol with ammunition. However, the command admitted that the officer violated operational procedures by shooting a suspect already in custody and restrained.

The police stated that the action contravened Force Order 237 and the Standard Operating Procedures of the Nigeria Police Force, which govern the use of firearms during operations. Following the incident, ASP Nuhu Usman was detained in Asaba before being transferred to Force Headquarters in Abuja for further disciplinary proceedings.

The police further confirmed that the officer will appear before the Force Disciplinary Committee, where his conduct will be reviewed and appropriate sanctions determined. Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, condemned the incident, assured the public of a full investigation, and extended condolences to the family of the deceased.

The viral video has triggered widespread anger across social media, with many Nigerians describing the act as excessive use of force and a violation of human rights. Human rights advocates have also renewed calls for stronger enforcement of police accountability in Nigeria, particularly in cases involving suspects already in custody.

The incident has further intensified national conversations around police brutality in Nigeria, with growing demands for reforms, improved training, and stricter disciplinary measures within the security system.

Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the killing.

Police Officer Arrested After Shooting Handcuffed Suspect Dead in Viral Video

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Malami Battles EFCC in Court Over ₦15.5bn Assets, Files 40-Page Defence

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Immediate-past Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami (SAN)
Former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN

Malami Battles EFCC in Court Over ₦15.5bn Assets, Files 40-Page Defence

Former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has filed a 40-page counter-affidavit before the Federal High Court in Abuja, opposing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) move to permanently forfeit more than 50 properties allegedly linked to him, his family, and 14 companies.

The EFCC had earlier secured an interim forfeiture order on January 6, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/20/2026, granted by Justice Emeka Nwite, placing the assets under temporary control pending determination of the substantive case. The properties reportedly include houses, hotels, schools, factories, and landed assets across Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi States, which the EFCC described as “reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.”

Malami strongly rejected the allegation, insisting in his affidavit that there was no prima facie evidence linking the properties to any unlawful activity. He maintained that all assets were lawfully acquired, properly documented, and declared to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) long before the EFCC began its investigation.

To support his defence, Malami presented a breakdown of what he described as ₦15.5 billion in lawful income between 2015 and 2023. According to him, the funds include ₦374.6 million earned as salary and allowances during his tenure as Attorney-General, ₦10.01 billion from business turnover, ₦3.52 billion in bank loans, ₦958 million received as wedding gifts, and ₦509.8 million from book launches.

He also listed several companies linked to his investments, including Rayhaan Hotels, Zeennoor Hotels, Meethaq Hotels, Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied, Azbir Arena, and Rayhaan University. Malami further accused the EFCC of inflating asset valuations, claiming that a Maitama property valued at ₦5.95 billion by the commission was actually purchased for about ₦500 million. He also disputed the ₦56 billion valuation of Rayhaan University’s permanent site, insisting independent valuation reports supported much lower figures.

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In a more personal section of his affidavit, Malami alleged that EFCC operatives forcibly evicted his family from six Abuja properties on March 24, 2026, before any final forfeiture order was issued. He claimed his wives and children, including minors, were removed from the homes, while important documents were allegedly seized during a 25-day detention in December 2025.

He further alleged that the interim order has already affected his businesses, saying NEXIM Bank recalled a ₦1.122 billion loan linked to one of his companies, while Zenith Bank began imposing additional charges on related facilities following the court ruling.

Malami also argued that several of the disputed properties were acquired before his tenure as Attorney-General between 2006 and 2013, including assets linked to Rayhaan Hotel in Kano and the Malami Support Organisation Building. He added that some properties were tied to pre-existing legal and business arrangements, while others belonged to his late father’s estate and were held in trust for family members.

He referenced asset declaration forms submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau in 2015, 2019, and 2023, insisting all contested properties were properly declared before the EFCC case began.

The case is also tied to an ongoing criminal matter marked FHC/CR/700/2025, in which Malami has pleaded not guilty. His legal team argues that since the allegations are still being contested in court, the EFCC’s forfeiture application is premature.

Malami’s counsel, J.B. Daudu (SAN), described the EFCC’s interim order as based on speculation rather than evidence, insisting that due process must be followed before any permanent seizure can be made.

The court has directed interested parties to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. Justice Emeka Nwite is expected to fix a hearing date to determine whether the interim order will be lifted or made final.

For now, the properties remain under EFCC custody pending the court’s final decision, while both parties prepare for a major legal showdown. The EFCC has not issued any fresh public comment on Malami’s latest filing.

 

Malami Battles EFCC in Court Over ₦15.5bn Assets, Files 40-Page Defence

 

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Jet A1 Crisis: NAHCON Engages Presidency to Prevent Possible Increase in 2026 Hajj Fares

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Hajj Pilgrims boarding a plane used to illustrate the story

Jet A1 Crisis: NAHCON Engages Presidency to Prevent Possible Increase in 2026 Hajj Fares

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has intensified consultations with the Presidency over the ongoing surge in Jet A1 aviation fuel prices, in a bid to prevent a possible increase in the cost of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage for Nigerian intending pilgrims.

The development comes amid growing concern that the sharp rise in fuel prices could significantly increase airline operating costs just days before the commencement of outbound airlift operations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

At the time the Hajj airlift contracts were signed with four approved airlines—Max Air, Air Peace, Umza Air Services, and Saudi-based FlyNas—Jet A1 was reportedly priced at about ₦1,000 per litre. However, the commodity has now surged to as high as ₦3,000 per litre in some locations, raising fears of potential fare adjustments.

NAHCON’s spokesperson, Fatima Sanda Usara, confirmed that the commission has formally written to the Presidency seeking urgent intervention over the rising cost of aviation fuel and its potential impact on the Hajj exercise.

According to her, the Presidency responded by requesting detailed information on the quantity of Jet A1 required by each of the airlines involved in the airlift operation. She added that the airlines have since submitted the requested data, which has been forwarded back to the Presidency for further consideration.

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Usara also disclosed that NAHCON’s leadership has been actively engaging relevant federal authorities. She said the Commission’s Chairman/CEO, Amb. Ismaila Abba Yusuf, recently met with the President’s Economic Adviser, alongside officials from the Ministry of Aviation and the Ministry of Petroleum, to discuss possible solutions to the crisis.

The discussions, she explained, focused on how to cushion the impact of rising Jet A1 prices on Hajj operations and ensure that intending pilgrims are not burdened with additional costs at this critical stage of preparations.

She assured that NAHCON remains committed to delivering a smooth and hitch-free 2026 Hajj exercise despite the prevailing challenges in the aviation sector.

“The commission has put all necessary plans in place to ensure a successful and hitch-free Hajj exercise,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Association of Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has said that pilgrims registered under private tour operators are unlikely to be affected by any fare increase.

AHUON President, Alhaji Abdul Lateef Ekundayo, explained that private operators had already paid for flight tickets and secured bookings for their clients, adding that no airline had communicated any additional charges.

A private tour operator who spoke anonymously also confirmed that fares for privately sponsored pilgrims had already been settled, making it unlikely for the fuel price increase to affect them at this stage.

However, aviation and Hajj stakeholders have warned that the situation could still impact overall operations if urgent intervention is not provided.

The National Coordinator of the Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), Ibrahim Muhammad, said the sharp rise in Jet A1 prices could disrupt airlift arrangements unless both federal and state governments step in to cover the gap between earlier cost projections and current fuel prices.

He added that increasing Hajj fares at this stage would be difficult and could create further challenges for intending pilgrims.

Similarly, aviation stakeholders under the Concerned Aviation Stakeholders group warned that airlines may struggle to operate efficiently due to rising costs, stressing that without government support, the burden may eventually fall on pilgrims or the operators.

With the commencement of the 2026 Hajj airlift approaching, attention is now focused on the Federal Government’s response as NAHCON continues high-level negotiations to stabilize costs and prevent disruptions to the pilgrimage exercise.

Jet A1 Crisis: NAHCON Engages Presidency to Prevent Possible Increase in 2026 Hajj Fares

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