The incident highlights continuing efforts by security agencies to combat piracy and related crimes along Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways, a vital corridor for trade and inter-state travel in the Gulf of Guinea region.
How joint security operation ended 11-day Calabar–Oron hostage ordeal
ABUJA – At least seventeen passengers who were abducted eleven days ago along the Calabar–Oron waterways have been rescued following a coordinated operation involving the Cross River State Government, security agencies, and local vigilante groups.
The rescue, confirmed in a statement signed by Mr. Bassey Asuquo, spokesperson for the Cross River State Government, said the victims were freed after sustained intelligence gathering and joint surveillance operations that lasted several days.
They are currently receiving medical treatment and psychological support at a government-owned facility in Calabar.
Preliminary reports revealed that the victims were among about thirty passengers aboard a Sea Express Limited boat travelling from Calabar, Cross River State, to Oron, Akwa Ibom State, when gunmen attacked mid-sea penultimate Thursday.
The assailants reportedly diverted the vessel to a creek community before abducting several passengers.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Information commended the State Security Adviser’s Office, the Nigerian Navy, and the Marine Police Unit for their resilience and tactical precision during the operation.
“This coordinated intervention demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the state government under His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, to the safety and security of all residents and travellers within our territorial boundaries,” the statement read.
READ ALSO:
The Commissioner explained that the operation was carried out by a combined team of naval officers, local trackers, and anti-piracy units. He added that the rescue was achieved without payment of ransom, underscoring the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in the state.
Receiving the rescued passengers in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to secure the waterways and protect all lawful residents and visitors.
“Our waterways are critical to trade and tourism. We will not allow criminals to disrupt peace or threaten the lives of any law-abiding citizens. This rescue sends a strong message that Cross River will not be a safe haven for criminal elements,” he said.
Ex-CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele Denies Allegations of Financing Terrorism
Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has strongly denied allegations linking him to terrorism financing in Nigeria, describing the claims as “mischievous and malicious.”
In a statement released on Saturday, December 6, 2025, Emefiele said the reports were “entirely fabricated, baseless, and a deliberate attempt to malign my name, mislead the public, and sow confusion for motives best known only to the publishers and their sponsors.”
He emphasized that the fight against terrorism is too important to be trivialized by irresponsible reporting, warning that Nigerians deserve accurate information rather than “reckless misinformation.”
READ ALSO:
“Throughout my service to the nation and in my private life, at no time have I been involved in any activity remotely connected to terrorism, terrorist financing, or any action that threatens the peace and security of our nation,” Emefiele stated. He added that he has never been invited, questioned, or investigated regarding such allegations and has no connection to the individual cited in the media reports.
“There is no scintilla of truth in the allegation,” he said, urging the public to disregard the claims entirely and calling on media organizations to verify facts before publishing sensational stories.
Emefiele’s statement seeks to reaffirm his reputation and distances him from any activities undermining national security.
Shettima Inaugurates Multi-Million Naira Juma’at Mosque in Gumel
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday inaugurated the newly constructed multi-million-naira Juma’at Mosque located within the Emir of Gumel’s Palace in Jigawa State.
According to a statement by Zainab Rabo, Senior Special Assistant on Media Affairs to Governor Umar Namadi, the event drew high-level dignitaries, including top politicians, first-class emirs, captains of industry, and prominent Islamic scholars from across the country.
Rabo disclosed that the mosque was built by the Kashim Shettima Foundation, adding that Governor Umar A. Namadi and the Sultan of Sokoto graced the ceremony.
READ ALSO:
During the occasion, the Vice President congratulated the Emir of Gumel, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed Sani, on marking 45 years on the throne, describing the milestone as a blessing and testament to exemplary leadership.
Shettima also reaffirmed his commitment—through his foundation—to initiatives that would improve the lives of Nigerians.
The Vice President further commended Governor Namadi for his notable strides in modern agriculture, noting that Jigawa’s progress under his leadership had positioned the state competitively within Nigeria and beyond.
“Governor Namadi is equal to the task, looking at his two-year achievements and the way he transformed Jigawa in modern agriculture,” Shettima stated.
Police Launch Special Enforcement Team to Enforce Tinubu’s Ban on VIP Escorts
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has deployed a Special Enforcement Team in Lagos to enforce President Bola Tinubu’s directive ending the use of police officers as escorts and guards for Very Important Persons (VIPs).
The operation, according to a statement posted on the Force’s official X account on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, commenced at about 10:00 a.m. on December 6, 2025, across key locations in Lagos State.
Hundeyin confirmed that the team carried out compliance checks at major points, including the Lekki–Ikoyi Link Bridge, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport domestic terminal, and other strategic hotspots within the state.
READ ALSO:
He disclosed that officers found “satisfactory and commendable” compliance with the presidential directive, with no incidents of unauthorised police escort and no arrests recorded.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterates the Force’s commitment to the full implementation of the presidential directive,” the statement said. “The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in redeploying its personnel to core policing duties aimed at enhancing general security, crime prevention, and the protection of lives and property nationwide.”
Hundeyin added that enforcement would continue across the country “without fear or favour,” urging Nigerians to support the push for a more professional and citizen-focused policing system.
President Tinubu had, on November 23, ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers from VIP protection, directing that they be reassigned to frontline policing roles. According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, VIP protection will now be handled by armed operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The policy aims to free up police manpower for critical security operations, particularly in underserved communities, and enhance overall national security efficiency.
Defence Minister Unveils New Security Strategy, Orders Troops to Shoot Armed Bandits on Sight
Team Justice accuses authorities of attempting to exclude Mohbad’s father from DNA test process
Senate Launches Emergency Probe into Widespread Lead Poisoning in Ogijo, Lagos/Ogun
Meta to Block Under-16s from Instagram, Facebook, Threads ahead of Australia’s World-First Youth Social Media Ban
Shocking confession: Boyfriend admits luring FRSC officer, child to death in Osun ritual murder
Leeds United Stun Chelsea 3-1 at Elland Road to Climb Out of Relegation Zone
BREAKING: Tinubu Sends Fresh Ambassadorial Nominations to Senate, Names Ibas, Ita Enang, Dambazau
Ember-months safety: Carloha, FRSC intensify campaign against distracted driving