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Updated: Police deploy helicopters, drones as 20 abducted medical students cry for help

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Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun

Updated: Police deploy helicopters, drones as 20 abducted medical students cry for help

Twenty medical students abducted on Thursday while travelling on Otukpo-Enugu highway have cried out for help from captivity.

They said they had not had any food for two days.

Their abductors demanding a ransom of N50 million have threatened to start killing them if the money was not paid promptly.

But the police on Saturday stepped up action to rescue the kidnapped students.

Deployed for the operation were helicopters, drones and personnel as directed by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the students’ abduction and prayed for their immediate rescue.

The list of the 20 abductees, who are from the Universities of Jos and Maiduguri, was released on Saturday.

They were abducted by gunmen while on their way to Enugu to attend the annual convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students in the city.

Police Public Relations Office (PPRO) of the Benue State Command, Kate Aneene, said the students were travelling in two buses when the gunmen pounced on them on the Otukpo-Enugu highway around 7pm.

From the list released by the Benue Medical Students Association (BEMSA) the abductees are Boniface Tizhe, Thomas Yahaya, Gabriel Jita Iwev, Boniface Okon, Dondo Fabian, John Bitrus Naga, Fortune Chima Umeh, Godwin Gregory Tumba, Monica Ejembi and Ogbonna George Chukwuebuka.

Others are Paul Nyampa Zira, Lawrence Victory Adaugo, Okopi Peter, Enger Benedicta, Kwaghaondo Aondona Kingsley, Paul Shantong, Victoria Cornelius, Pius Samson, Okan Adara and Dr. Luis Mmbamonyeukwu, a house officer.

The association said the list would be updated as more information came.

One of the kidnapped students, Aondona Kingsley, managed to get words across on his X handle @King aondona yesterday, painting a picture of what they have been going through.

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He said, “We were kidnapped on our way to Enugu for a convention @Nigerian Doctor. They are requesting (for) 50 million for 20 of us medical students. Please help us. And we haven’t eaten for two days 08163420157 –Pius that is who we are gathering the money with.”

In a separate message, he said, “They said they would start killing us tomorrow.”

Inspector General Egbetokun described the abduction of the students as “truly appalling, callous and unacceptable.”

Spokesman for the Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi said in a statement that Egbetokun, in keeping with the police unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the young Nigerians, had “ordered the prompt deployment of a substantial number of human and technical resources to augment the manpower of the Benue State Command and ensure swift rescue of our beloved students.”

The move, according to the police spokesman, “encompasses the mobilization of additional tactical units from the FID-STS and FID-IRT, the deployment of advanced helicopters and drones, as well as the use of specialised tactical vehicles to facilitate the search and secure the safe return of the victims.”

He also said, “The Nigeria Police Force stands with the victims and their loved ones during this challenging time, and we are committed to ensuring the safe return of the students.

“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates the zeal of the force to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of the perpetrators and others alike, as the Nigeria Police Force is determined to sustain the fight against crimes and criminality, most especially kidnapping of Nigerians.

“The IGP equally appeals to the general public to provide useful information and actionable intelligence that may aid the ongoing investigation and the rescue operation.

“Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the nearest police station the state’s command control number or the FHQ via Pressforabuja@police.gov.ng and other helplines.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its mission to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians, and it will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace, stability and the rule of law throughout the country.”

The NMA in an open letter to the Police IG yesterday called for the swift intervention of the authorities in the “grave situation.”

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“Given the urgency of this matter and the potential risks to the lives of these young students, we implore your office to deploy all necessary resources to secure their immediate and safe return,” it said in the letter signed by the association’s Secretary General, Dr Benjamin Egbo.

The association said it was “deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of these future medical professionals, and we believe that swift and decisive action by the Nigeria Police Force is crucial at this time.”

It offered to provide assistance and support to facilitate the police efforts in rescuing the abducted students.

Senate President of NANS, Okunomo Henry Adewumi, asked government to swiftly and preemptively tackle violent acts.

He also called for heightened security presence in susceptible regions, enhanced intelligence collection and dissemination, and increased safeguarding of schools, medical centres and communities.

Criminals responsible for such acts, it added, must be identified and punished accordingly.

Security agencies must get them out of kidnappers’ den –Gov Alia

In his reaction, Gov. Alia asked security agencies in the state to intensify efforts and ensure the safe return of the students.

The governor also condemned the abduction and  warned criminal elements operating within the state to relocate as his administration would  not rest in its efforts to stamp out all forms of criminality in the state.

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare expressed sadness over the incident.

The ministry described it as a stark reminder of the significant challenges faced by healthcare professionals and students in Nigeria.

The ministry lamented that the kidnapping was a significant setback to the nation’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare workforce.

It called for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted students and the house officer.

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The ministry’s Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Ado Bako, asked the perpetrators of the dastardly act to desist from such criminal activities and respect the sanctity of human life.

He said, “The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare stands in solidarity with the families of the kidnapped students and offers its full support during this difficult time.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of healthcare professionals and students across the country.”

Updated: Police deploy helicopters, drones as 20 abducted medical students cry for help

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Delta Police Arrest Content Creator Over Alleged Rape, Death of Nursing Student

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Delta Police Arrest Content Creator Over Alleged Rape, Death of Nursing Student

Delta Police Arrest Content Creator Over Alleged Rape, Death of Nursing Student

The Delta State Police Command has arrested popular content creator Ifeanyi Ogbonna, widely known as ‘Odogwu of Asaba’, in connection with the alleged rape of a 20-year-old nursing student, Favour Agbro, who later died by suicide. The suspect, 40, was arrested at his residence in Asaba on Tuesday following a petition by Warri-based human rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe, who had been championing the case and demanding justice for the deceased. Favour Agbro, a native of Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, was a practicing nurse at Wingate Hospital in Okuokoko, Warri, where she was known as a dedicated and promising young professional. According to activist Israel Joe, she travelled to Asaba on June 1, 2026, after being invited by the suspect, who had advertised a training programme on how to monetise Facebook and TikTok accounts, a lure that tragically led to her untimely death.

Upon her arrival in Asaba, the suspect allegedly took her to a hotel room where he reportedly raped and physically assaulted her, turning what she believed was an opportunity for professional development into a nightmare of sexual violence. According to activist Israel Joe, the deceased had made it clear to the suspect via WhatsApp that she was a virgin and was not interested in any form of relationship, making her intentions clear before she even travelled to meet him. “She told him she was a virgin, ‘I’ve never slept with a man. Please if that is what you are thinking, I can’t.’ He entered the room, raped the girl despite her plea. The girl even never chop. Odogwu Asaba no give this girl food,” Joe recounted, painting a disturbing picture of the callousness with which the suspect allegedly treated his victim. After the assault, the victim allegedly sustained injuries and began bleeding, a testament to the violence she endured at his hands. She contacted the suspect, who reportedly sent her N10,000 while also intimidating her, adding insult to injury and further traumatizing the young woman. She returned to Warri visibly traumatised and disclosed the incident to her twin sister and mother, who were devastated by the revelation of what had happened to their daughter and sibling.

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The activist further revealed that the victim approached an activist in Asaba to report the rape but was allegedly told to “let sleeping dogs lie” because the suspect was an influential person, a response that compounded her trauma and left her feeling abandoned by those who should have helped her. This setback reportedly pushed Favour into deep depression, leading her to ingest a toxic substance in a desperate act of despair. After taking the poisonous substance, she was rushed to Wingate Hospital where she worked, but she was reportedly rejected there, a cruel irony that she would be turned away from the very place where she had dedicated herself to caring for others. She was then taken to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), but hospital staff were allegedly on strike and could not attend to her, further delaying the urgent medical attention she desperately needed. She was finally rushed to Capitol Hill Hospital in Warri, where she eventually died, her life cut short at just 20 years old. She was buried about three weeks ago, but plans are underway to exhume her body for autopsy as part of the ongoing investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding her death.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed that before her death, the victim made a video recording in which she recounted her experience and the severe emotional distress she suffered following the alleged assault, providing crucial evidence that has aided the investigation. She subsequently ingested a toxic substance and died despite efforts to save her life, leaving behind a grieving family and a community demanding justice. Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Wednesday, providing details of the police response to the petition. He stated that upon receipt of the petition, the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, directed the Area Command Effurun to carry out an immediate and thorough investigation, demonstrating the command’s commitment to addressing the serious allegations. “During preliminary investigation, the suspect reportedly made useful statements to the police, while further investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case,” Edafe stated, indicating that the suspect was cooperating with investigators. CP Yemi Oyeniyi assured the deceased’s family and the public that the case will be thoroughly investigated and that no aspect of the allegations will be overlooked, offering a measure of reassurance that justice will be pursued. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring that the investigation is conducted professionally and that appropriate legal action is taken in accordance with the law, signaling that the police are determined to see the case through to its conclusion. According to activist Israel Joe, the suspect did not deny the allegations when confronted with evidence during interrogation, a development that suggests the strength of the case against him. The case has sparked widespread public concern and renewed calls for justice over sexual violence and the protection of young women in Nigeria, with many taking to social media to demand accountability and systemic change.

Delta Police Arrest Content Creator Over Alleged Rape, Death of Nursing Student

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APC Guber Candidate Sharafadeen Alli Gifts Brand-New Toyota Camry to Rescued Oyo Principal

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APC Guber Candidate Sharafadeen Alli Gifts Brand-New Toyota Camry to Rescued Oyo Principal
Senator Sharafadeen Alli and Mrs Rachael Alamu

APC Guber Candidate Sharafadeen Alli Gifts Brand-New Toyota Camry to Rescued Oyo Principal

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has donated a brand-new Toyota Camry to Mrs Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, following her release from captivity. The presentation took place after Mrs Alamu and other abducted victims were formally handed over to Governor Seyi Makinde at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, where the emotional reunion unfolded before officials and family members who had gathered to receive the rescued victims. Photos shared by Ibadan-based radio station Yes FM showed Alli presenting the vehicle alongside the member representing Afijio/Oyo East/Oyo West/Atiba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Akeem Adeyemi, as the principal received the gift with visible appreciation and gratitude. The gesture has drawn attention to the sacrifices teachers continue to make while serving in vulnerable rural communities, with many describing it as a compassionate intervention that recognizes the dedication of educators who put their lives on the line in the service of their students. Mrs Alamu was among the teachers and pupils abducted on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area—Community High School, Esiele, and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School, plunging the entire state into mourning and sparking widespread calls for improved security in educational institutions across Oyo State. The victims regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity, bringing relief to their families and the entire Oyo State community, who had endured weeks of anxiety and uncertainty over the fate of their loved ones.

After her rescue, a video shared online showed the visibly emotional principal asking security operatives about her husband and her vehicle, her voice trembling with relief and concern as she sought reassurance that her loved ones were safe. She later explained that she initially believed the police had recovered her car before learning that her abductors had burnt it, adding another layer of distress to the trauma she had already endured during the long weeks in captivity. Recounting her harrowing experience after being officially received by Governor Makinde, Mrs Alamu revealed the gruesome details of their 56-day ordeal in the forest, painting a vivid picture of the suffering and deprivation they endured at the hands of their captors. She disclosed that the kidnappers repeatedly forced the captives to undertake dangerous night-time treks through forests whenever they feared security operatives were closing in on their hideouts, subjecting already traumatized victims to additional physical and psychological stress. “When the place was discovered, we had to move, and that usually started around seven or eight at night. Sometimes we walked for three to four hours. That is why you see bruises on our bodies,” she said, explaining the visible marks of their arduous journeys through difficult terrain. She explained that the younger children were carried by the kidnappers, but older pupils had to endure the exhausting journeys, often falling multiple times due to fatigue and the challenging forest conditions. “The younger ones were carried, but the older children had to walk. They fell many times. It was very difficult,” she recounted, her voice heavy with the memory of the children’s suffering during those forced nocturnal movements.

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Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has donated a brand-new Toyota Camry to Mrs Rachael Alamu

Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has donated a brand-new Toyota Camry to Mrs Rachael Alamu

Mrs Alamu also disclosed that the abductors subjected the victims to extreme cruelty to maintain silence and avoid detection, employing harsh methods to control their captives and prevent any attempts at escape or communication with the outside world. “Personally, I was not beaten, but some of the children were beaten. What they hated most was noise because they believed it could attract attention. The youngest children suffered the most. They would tie their mouths with pieces of cloth and beat them very well,” she revealed, describing the systematic brutality directed at the most vulnerable among them. The male teachers endured even harsher treatment during the 56-day captivity, facing additional restraints and harsher conditions than their female counterparts. “The men had it worse than us. They were blindfolded, handcuffed and chained on their legs,” she said, highlighting the gender-based disparity in the treatment of captives. Despite the harsh conditions and the constant threat of violence, the principal stated that none of the victims was sexually assaulted during the period in captivity, offering a small measure of relief in an otherwise harrowing narrative of abuse and deprivation.

During her emotional account, Mrs Alamu revealed that two teachers lost their lives during the ordeal, a loss that has cast a shadow over the relief of the victims’ rescue and reunification with their families. The mathematics teacher, Mr Michael Oyedokun, was killed on the second day of their captivity, while Deacon Esiyan Adegboye was murdered on the first Sunday of June, their deaths serving as brutal reminders of the kidnappers’ willingness to commit murder to achieve their demands. “There are times when we had hope that we won’t come out alive. Mr Michael was killed on the second day we got there. Deacon was killed on the first Sunday of June. They killed them purposely because they felt that would force the hand of the government to give them whatever they wanted,” she recounted, her words echoing the trauma of witnessing colleagues murdered in cold blood. The abductors also subjected the victims to psychological torture, repeatedly telling them that the government had abandoned them and was no longer interested in securing their release, employing mental manipulation alongside physical abuse. “Many times, they used fear to subdue us. At one point they told us the government wasn’t interested in our case anymore because they didn’t value us,” she recalled, describing the psychological warfare that compounded the physical suffering of the 56-day captivity.

Senator Alli explained that the vehicle donation was in recognition of Mrs Alamu’s exceptional leadership, resilience, and motherly courage during the traumatic experience, highlighting her role in protecting and caring for the abducted pupils throughout the ordeal. A statement on his campaign Facebook page read: “The donation was in recognition of the exceptional leadership, resilience, and motherly courage Mrs Alamu displayed during her traumatic experience in the captivity of her abductors. Her composure, strength of character, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity have inspired many across Oyo State,” reflecting the admiration many have expressed for the principal’s strength under unimaginable circumstances. The APC governorship candidate described the gift as “a modest token of appreciation” for her courage and a demonstration of solidarity with victims of insecurity, emphasizing that such acts of exceptional character deserve recognition and encouragement from public figures. The statement further noted that the gesture reflected Alli’s belief that “acts of exceptional character and sacrifice deserve recognition and encouragement,” positioning the donation within a broader commitment to honouring those who display extraordinary courage in service to others.

The rescued victims were officially received by Governor Seyi Makinde at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, where he expressed relief at their safe return and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting its citizens. Speaking during the handover, Governor Makinde called on the United Nations and international human rights organisations to conduct a full-scale independent investigation into the abduction, describing the circumstances as “sufficiently grave and unusual to warrant independent scrutiny beyond our domestic institutions,” signalling the gravity with which his administration views the incident. The governor announced that the state government would immediately strengthen oversight of all access routes leading into and out of the Old Oyo National Park through adjoining local government areas, taking proactive measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. He also directed that the rescued pupils and teachers be reunited with their families immediately, describing the reunion as a critical step towards emotional healing after nearly two months in captivity, acknowledging the psychological scars that such ordeals leave behind. The BSA Diaspora Vanguard North America Chapter praised Senator Alli for his “swift and compassionate intervention,” describing the gesture as a reflection of true leadership, empathy, and commitment to the welfare of citizens. “Leadership is about showing up for the people, especially in their darkest moments. Barr. Sharafadeen Alli has demonstrated empathy, responsiveness, and commitment to the welfare of Oyo State citizens,” the group stated, commending the APC candidate for his responsiveness to the needs of victims and their families. Residents and stakeholders in Oriire Local Government also commended the senator’s gesture, describing it as a compassionate intervention and a fitting recognition of the sacrifices and dedication of teachers serving under challenging conditions, with many calling for similar support for the families of the two teachers who lost their lives during the kidnapping.

APC Guber Candidate Sharafadeen Alli Gifts Brand-New Toyota Camry to Rescued Oyo Principal

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Oluwo of Iwoland Confers ‘Atayese of Yorubaland’ Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan

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Oluwo of Iwoland Confers 'Atayese of Yorubaland' Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan

Oluwo of Iwoland Confers ‘Atayese of Yorubaland’ Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan 

Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has been conferred with the traditional chieftaincy title of Atayese of Yorubaland by the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I. The honour was bestowed during a colourful ceremony at the Oluwo’s palace in Iwo, Osun State, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. The activist had travelled to the ancient town following a personal invitation from the monarch, arriving at Ibadan Airport ahead of the visit alongside coordinators of his Ratel movement from the Southwest region. The monarch had earlier described VDM as one of the country’s leading voices on transparency and accountability whose anti-corruption campaigns deserved “royal guidance,” setting the stage for what would become one of the most talked-about traditional ceremonies in recent times.

During the palace ceremony, the Oluwo personally adorned VeryDarkMan in traditional Yoruba attire (Aso Oke) before officially conferring the chieftaincy title upon him. The event was witnessed by palace chiefs, members of the Ratel movement, and other dignitaries who had gathered for the occasion, creating an atmosphere of celebration and cultural pride. The monarch, dressed in full traditional regalia, warmly received the activist and exchanged pleasantries with his guest while guests watched and recorded the ceremony for posterity. A particularly notable moment from the visit captured widespread attention online: VDM prostrated himself before the monarch in observance of Yoruba cultural tradition, a gesture reserved as a sign of deep respect for elders and traditional rulers. Videos of the moment quickly circulated across social media platforms, generating significant reactions from followers and observers who praised the display of Yoruba culture and tradition during the ceremony, with many commending the activist for honouring the customs of the land despite his often combative online persona.

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Addressing his guest and members of the Ratel movement, the Oluwo described Iwo as a peaceful town that welcomes people from every background and declared his official identification with the movement, referring to himself as the “King of the Ratels.” The monarch stated that anyone who chooses to live in Iwo would receive the same love and care he gives to his own children, emphasizing the town’s reputation for hospitality and warmth toward visitors. He also emphasized that Iwo remains the only town where residents favour the monarchy system of government above every other form of governance, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural values that define the ancient kingdom. The monarch urged the movement to expand its mission beyond social advocacy by embracing politics, arguing that meaningful reforms and justice could only be achieved through political power. “I want you Ratels to know there is now a king in the Ratel. I want your help to cleanse our dirty culture and remove the bad from it. Today, VDM has been chosen,” the Oluwo declared. “Keep moving, but you should not stop yourself from politics because that is the only way you can implement your dreams so that you can even control kings,” he added, offering what many interpreted as strategic counsel for the activist and his movement to extend their influence beyond social media advocacy into the realm of political governance.

The conferment has generated widespread debate online, with supporters celebrating the recognition while others questioned the significance and scope of the title. Some commentators argued the title should have been limited to “Atayese of Iwoland” rather than extending it to “Atayese of Yorubaland,” while others described the honour as recognition of the activist’s advocacy and public engagement. One supporter commented: “Dem say pikin wey wash him hand clean go dine/Eat with Elders,” reflecting the popular sentiment that VDM’s journey from social media critic to traditional title holder represents a remarkable rise. Others drew connections to VDM’s journey and influence, with the visit becoming one of the most talked-about moments online. Some users expressed caution, with one writing: “Trust no one,” while another urged VDM to stay grounded despite the recognition, warning that traditional honours could potentially compromise his critical voice. The mixed reactions underscore the complexity of VDM’s public persona and the varied expectations his followers hold for his advocacy work.

The honour comes about three months after VeryDarkMan announced a temporary break from all social media platforms following allegations that his online activities were distracting Nigerian youths from demanding accountability from the government. The social media commentator disclosed the decision in a video shared on his Instagram page, saying he stepped away following the allegations that his posts had become a source of distraction for young Nigerians who should otherwise be focused on holding the government accountable. “Because of the allegations and accusations that it is my posts that have been distracting the Nigerian youths from holding the government accountable, I have decided to not post again on social media during this period,” he said, explaining his rationale for the temporary withdrawal. “I’m going to take a back stage,” he added, indicating his intention to allow other voices to emerge in the online advocacy space during his absence from social media platforms. The conferment of the chieftaincy title adds another milestone to VDM’s public engagements, as the activist continues to play a prominent role in national conversations on transparency, justice and public accountability. The visit and chieftaincy conferment have since become one of the most talked-about topics online, with many awaiting further details about the significance of the title and the activist’s remarks following the honour, while others continue to debate the implications of a social media critic accepting traditional recognition from a monarch.

Oluwo of Iwoland Confers ‘Atayese of Yorubaland’ Chieftaincy Title on VeryDarkMan 

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