Mother, Sister of Slain Bandit Kingpin Sentenced to 40 Years for Terrorism Offences

A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced two women linked to slain terrorist and bandit leader Kachallah Ibrahim Battujo to a combined 40 years imprisonment for terrorism-related offences.

The convicts, Safiya Salihu and Halima Abdullahi, identified as the mother and sister of Battujo, were convicted following investigations conducted by the Department of State Services (DSS).

Justice Hauwa Joseph Yilwa delivered the judgment on Friday after both women pleaded guilty to multiple counts contained in a five-count charge filed by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

Battujo, described by security agencies as a notorious bandit and terrorist commander operating across parts of Nigeria’s North-Central and North-West regions, was killed by security operatives on June 10, 2026, during a military operation in a forest near Iluke in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The convicts, Safiya Salihu and Halima Abdullahi

During proceedings, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Oyedepo Rotimi (SAN), applied to withdraw Counts 1 and 3 of the charge. The court subsequently struck out the counts, which alleged that the defendants knowingly received N490,300 from Battujo despite being aware that the funds were proceeds of terrorism and that they participated in a Hajj pilgrimage sponsored with money linked to terrorist activities.

However, both women admitted guilt to Count 2, which accused them of aiding and abetting the activities of Battujo by passing information to him through telephone conversations while he was actively involved in banditry and terrorism operations.

The charge stated that the defendants knowingly provided information and support to the wanted bandit leader, an offence punishable under Section 26 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

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Safiya Salihu also pleaded guilty to Count 5, which alleged that she deliberately withheld information about her son’s terrorist activities from security agencies despite having knowledge that could have assisted in his arrest.

Similarly, Halima Abdullahi admitted guilt to an additional count relating to the concealment of information concerning her brother’s possession of firearms and activities within his forest hideout, which she reportedly observed during visits to his camp.

In her judgment, Justice Yilwa sentenced each defendant to 20 years imprisonment on every count for which they were convicted. The court ordered that the sentences run concurrently, meaning each woman will serve 20 years in prison rather than separate consecutive terms.

The judge further directed that both convicts undergo rehabilitation and deradicalisation programmes upon completion of their prison terms before reintegration into society.

The case is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing crackdown on terrorism financing, logistics support networks, and individuals accused of aiding terrorist and bandit groups across the country. Under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, offences involving support for terrorist activities, concealment of information, and aiding terrorist operations attract severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Recent terrorism-related convictions by the Federal High Court have similarly resulted in prison terms ranging from 20 years to life imprisonment. (Businessday NG)

Security agencies had previously identified Battujo as one of the key figures behind violent criminal operations in parts of the North-Central and North-West zones before his elimination earlier this month. Authorities say investigations into his network and alleged collaborators remain ongoing.

The conviction of his mother and sister underscores the government’s determination to prosecute not only armed perpetrators but also individuals accused of providing intelligence, concealment, financing, or other forms of support to terrorist organisations and bandit groups.

Mother, Sister of Slain Bandit Kingpin Sentenced to 40 Years for Terrorism Offences

‘Privacy Is Peace to Me’ – Baba Ijesha’s Wife Abiodun Tokunbo Finally Speaks Out

• Fashion entrepreneur and CEO of House of Luminee shares heartfelt journey with Nollywood actor as couple welcomes baby boy after 12 years together

LAGOS, Nigeria – For years, Abiodun Folashade Tokunbo watched from the shadows as her husband, Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka – better known as Baba Ijesha – dominated headlines for both his craft and his controversies. Through it all, she remained silent, private, and deliberately out of the public eye. Now, for the first time, she is explaining why.

In a heartfelt Instagram post that has since gone viral, the fashion entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of House of Luminee finally broke her silence on her marriage to the embattled actor, revealing that privacy is peace to me – a philosophy she has held onto throughout their relationship. The revelation comes days after Baba Ijesha announced the birth of their son, King Kagar Omiyinka, a moment that prompted Tokunbo to reflect on their journey together and share a glimpse into their private world.

Tokunbo took to Instagram to share a photograph documenting her journey with the actor over the years. She accompanied the image with a powerful message expressing gratitude despite the challenges they have faced together. “Before and After. Aanu Ni! Oju ri! But Anu speaks. This right time to fly together. Privacy is peace to me,” she wrote. Her words resonated deeply with followers who had no idea the couple had been together for over a decade. The post marked the first time Tokunbo publicly acknowledged her relationship with the actor, ending years of speculation about his personal life.

Tokunbo’s comments came shortly after Baba Ijesha announced that the couple had welcomed a baby boy together. On Monday, the actor took to social media to share the good news, introducing their child as King Kagar Omiyinka. He also showered praises on Tokunbo, describing her as “my ever beautiful wife, strong Jagaban.” The announcement surprised many followers, as neither Baba Ijesha nor Tokunbo had publicly disclosed a romantic relationship before now. The couple had deliberately kept their relationship away from public scrutiny, a decision Tokunbo now explains was essential to her peace of mind and overall well-being. Tokunbo revealed that the newborn is their first child together after 12 years, referencing her daughter in earlier remarks. However, it remains unclear whether the couple had been together for over 12 years. Actor and filmmaker Yomi Fabiyi, a longtime ally of Baba Ijesha, appeared to confirm the news when he shared a video of the couple and congratulated them on the birth.

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The birth announcement comes nearly seven months after Baba Ijesha regained his freedom following the completion of a prison sentence imposed after his conviction in a child sexual assault case. Monday’s announcement marks one of the most significant personal developments the actor has publicly shared since leaving prison and signals a new chapter in his private life, even as public discussions around his conviction continue. Baba Ijesha was convicted in July 2022 for the sexual assault of a minor and sentenced to five years in prison. He completed his sentence earlier in 2026 and has since been attempting to rebuild his career and personal life. The birth of his son with Tokunbo marks a fresh start for the actor, who has largely stayed out of the public eye since his release.

Abiodun Folashade Tokunbo, the woman behind the actor’s quiet personal life, is a force in her own right. She hails from Ijesha Isu, Ekiti State, where she was born as the sixth daughter in a family of eight. She attended Hosanna Africa Primary School before proceeding to Methodist Girls High School for her secondary education. She later obtained a National Diploma in Banking and Finance from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Lagos State University. She launched her fashion brand, House of Luminee, in 2013, shortly after completing her final examinations at LASU. Her big break came when Nollywood actress Mercy Aigbe discovered one of her designs online and reached out to the model featured in the post. Since then, she has built a notable presence in the Nigerian fashion space, working with A-list celebrities including Mercy Aigbe, Shola Shobowale, Ini Edo, Queen Silekunola Ogunwusi, Mide Martins, Mercy Johnson, and others. Today, House of Luminee is recognized as one of Lagos’s premier fashion houses, known for its elegant and sophisticated designs. Tokunbo has built a reputation for excellence in the industry, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

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The couple’s decision to keep their relationship private has sparked widespread curiosity. While Baba Ijesha has been a public figure for decades, Tokunbo remained firmly in the background, never appearing at red-carpet events or granting interviews about her personal life. Her Instagram post now offers a rare glimpse into their relationship, showing that they have weathered storms together – both professional and personal. The phrase “Oju ri” (meaning “we have seen it all” in Yoruba) suggests a shared history of trials and triumphs, while “Aanu ni” (meaning “it is mercy”) reflects gratitude for how far they have come.

The couple’s announcement drew widespread attention online, largely because they had deliberately kept their relationship away from public scrutiny over the years. Fans and followers have since reacted with congratulations and admiration for the couple’s milestone. Many praised Tokunbo for her grace and discretion, while others expressed surprise at the revelation. “Finally, we know the woman behind the man. Congratulations to you both,” one follower wrote. Another commented: “Privacy is indeed peace. Wishing you both all the best with your new baby.”

The public acknowledgment of his marriage and the birth of his son could mark a turning point for Baba Ijesha as he seeks to rebuild his public image. While his conviction and imprisonment left a stain on his reputation, his recent personal milestones suggest a man attempting to move forward. Tokunbo’s public support and the announcement of their child together present a narrative of redemption and new beginnings. However, it remains to be seen whether the actor can fully rehabilitate his career in an industry where public perception often determines success.

As Abiodun Tokunbo and Baba Ijesha embark on this new chapter together, her words ring true: “This right time to fly together.” After years of secrecy, the couple has chosen to share their joy with the world, even as they maintain the privacy that Tokunbo holds dear. For Tokunbo, the decision to keep her marriage private was never about shame or secrecy – it was about protecting her peace. And now, with her son in her arms and her husband by her side, she is ready to embrace the future with gratitude and grace.

‘Privacy Is Peace to Me’ – Baba Ijesha’s Wife Abiodun Tokunbo Finally Speaks Out

Okpebholo Vows Public Hanging for Convicted Kidnappers, Unveils Special Courts

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has vowed to intensify the fight against kidnapping in Edo State, warning that anyone convicted of the crime could face public execution as his administration moves to establish special courts for the speedy trial of kidnapping and cultism cases.

The governor made the remarks on Thursday at the headquarters of the Edo State Police Command in Benin City after interrogating suspects linked to a recent abduction case in the state.

According to Okpebholo, his administration is finalizing plans to create special courts for kidnapping and cultism cases, with a mandate to conclude trials and deliver judgments within two to three weeks.

He said the move is part of broader efforts to strengthen security and ensure swift justice for victims of violent crimes.

“Now we are going to set up a special court to try suspected kidnappers and cultists. Within two to three weeks, we are done with it, and I will sign it,” the governor said.

Okpebholo further stated that convicted kidnappers would face severe punishment, declaring that he would have no regrets in enforcing the law against those found guilty.

“The execution — hang him. I will take you to the roundabout so that the whole of Edo people will see you, and on this I will have no regrets,” he said.

The governor’s comments come amid growing concerns over kidnapping and insecurity in Edo State, with residents and stakeholders calling for stronger measures to curb criminal activities.

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Addressing criminal elements operating in the state, Okpebholo warned that no offender would escape justice, regardless of their influence or support network.

“My message to them is simple: whoever has such a mind to kidnap should know that you cannot do it and go free. There is no crime that will be committed in Edo State that such a person will not be arrested,” he said.

He also cautioned individuals providing assistance or shelter to kidnappers and cultists, stressing that security agencies had been directed to track down all those involved in criminal activities.

“Whoever is supporting you or aiding you to do it should stop because we are ready for you. We are not joking. We are not sleeping. Day and night, security agencies are working to make sure that this land is safe,” the governor added.

The announcement follows a recent kidnapping incident involving a woman in Benin City, an event that has heightened public concern over security in the state.

The proposed special courts in Edo State are expected to accelerate the prosecution of suspects and reduce delays often associated with criminal trials. The initiative is also part of the state government’s broader strategy to tackle kidnapping, cultism, and violent crimes through a combination of law enforcement operations and judicial reforms.

While the governor’s remarks have generated widespread attention, legal experts note that criminal punishments in Nigeria remain subject to constitutional provisions, existing laws, and judicial processes.

As the state government moves forward with the proposed courts, attention will focus on how the initiative will be implemented and its impact on the fight against kidnapping in Edo State.

Okpebholo Vows Public Hanging for Convicted Kidnappers, Unveils Special Courts