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

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Safiya Salihu and Halima Abdullahi

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.

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

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

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IPOB Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Suspension, Declares Move Null and Void

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June 19, 2026

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IPOB Rejects Nnamdi Kanu's Suspension, Declares Move Null and Void

IPOB Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Suspension, Declares Move Null and Void

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has officially dismissed the purported suspension of its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, describing the action as unconstitutional, null and void, and an exercise in futility by officials whose tenure had already been terminated.

The separatist group said the declaration made by the faction led by Chika Edoziem carries no weight, insisting that those behind the move no longer hold any recognised authority within the organisation . In a statement issued on Friday by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group maintained that the officials responsible for announcing Kanu’s suspension had already lost their positions before making the declaration .

According to IPOB, the leadership structure headed by Edoziem had earlier been dissolved by Kanu under powers granted to him by the group’s Code of Conduct. The organisation said a new administrative leadership, identified as the fourth Directorate of State (DOS) , has already been constituted under the leadership of Chris Nwaọgụ, a United States-based member . The group argued that since the previous administration had already been dissolved, all decisions, directives, or pronouncements made by its members after that dissolution are automatically invalid . “No person can derive authority from an office that has already ceased to exist,” the statement said .

IPOB stressed that under its constitutional framework, only the office of the Supreme Leader has the power to appoint, remove, suspend, or dissolve principal officers and key administrative structures . The group pointed to provisions in its internal code, insisting that such powers are exclusively vested in Kanu unless he chooses to delegate them . Based on that position, IPOB said any announcement suggesting that Kanu had been suspended by Edoziem’s faction was not only unconstitutional but impossible under the organisation’s laws . “The authority to appoint, suspend, dismiss or dissolve principal officers and administrative structures resides exclusively in the Office of the Supreme Leader. No Coordinator, Principal Officer, Directorate, Committee or collective body possesses any constitutional authority to suspend, remove or overrule the Supreme Leader,” the statement said .

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The crisis began when the Directorate of State (DOS) of IPOB announced the indefinite suspension of the Office of the Leader of IPOB and the position of Director of Radio Biafra, both previously held by Kanu . Chikadibia Edoziem, head of the DOS, said the decision followed a DOS meeting held on June 17, where members resolved to impose the indefinite suspension in what they described as the overall interest of Biafrans . The DOS cited several reasons for its decision, including intelligence reports alleging meetings involving security agencies and Kanu, concerns over communications it claimed had led to arrests and deaths of members, as well as fears that some individuals were attempting to establish a new militia that could trigger further violence in the region . “We affirm that the pursuit of our inalienable right to self-determination is peaceful and non-violent and must never become a basis for causing harm, hardship, or death to the very people we seek to liberate from the injustices and atrocities perpetrated by the Nigerian system,” the DOS statement read .

IPOB strongly criticised the move, describing it as reckless and a direct challenge to the authority of the group’s leadership structure . The organisation accused the dissolved officials of gross insubordination, constitutional misconduct, abuse of office, and deliberate attempts to usurp powers beyond what is permitted under its governing laws . According to the statement, instead of complying with the leadership transition and handing over responsibilities, the former officials allegedly chose to act in defiance of the authority that initially legitimised their positions . The group described the move against Kanu as “foolish, delusional and a legal impossibility” within the framework of its laws .

The group directed its members across different countries to ignore any statement, appointment, suspension, or directive issued by Edoziem and members of the dissolved administration . “The third administration of the Directorate of State no longer exists. Its tenure has been terminated by lawful authority and its powers extinguished,” the statement declared . IPOB further called on media organisations to be cautious in reporting developments concerning the group, urging journalists to verify sources before publishing statements attributed to individuals it no longer recognises as official representatives . The group declared that any directive, instruction, statement, appointment, suspension, or administrative action purportedly issued by Edoziem or any member of the dissolved administration after its dissolution is “null, void, and incapable of creating any legal or organisational consequence within IPOB” .

Meanwhile, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, has also rejected reports of Kanu’s suspension, describing the move as invalid and lacking institutional or communal legitimacy . In a statement signed by Deputy President-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Deputy Secretary-General Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, Ohanaeze said the claims attributed to certain aggrieved members, including Edoziem and associates, are “unofficial and incapable of altering established recognitions or ongoing engagements” . Ohanaeze stated unequivocally that the alleged suspension of Kanu is “not recognized, not validated, and holds no institutional or communal legitimacy within its purview” . “Accordingly, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains a central and widely acknowledged leadership figure associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra,” the statement added .

Ohanaeze expressed concern that internal disagreements within IPOB could threaten the relative peace that has returned to the South-East in recent months . The organisation noted that the region has experienced renewed agricultural activities, the revival of cultural festivals, increased commercial engagements and growing investor confidence—gains it described as fragile . “These gains remain delicate and must not be undermined by avoidable internal disputes or inflammatory narratives,” Ohanaeze stated . The group urged all parties involved in the leadership dispute to embrace peaceful dialogue rather than public confrontation, stating that “Dialogue remains the most viable and sustainable pathway to conflict resolution” . Ohanaeze also reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing dialogue initiatives aimed at fostering unity among Igbo stakeholders and supporting efforts toward the release of detained pro-Biafra figures, including Kanu . The organisation warned that unresolved divisions could undermine those efforts and stressed that it would not support any action capable of reigniting insecurity in the South-East .

Reaffirming loyalty to Kanu, IPOB said the newly established leadership remains active and fully answerable to the detained leader . IPOB also warned that any member or group attempting to challenge Kanu’s authority or disrupt the organisation’s command structure would face disciplinary action, including suspension or outright expulsion . “The era of indiscipline, constitutional recklessness, and unauthorised power-grabbing within IPOB is over. The authority of the Supreme Leader remains supreme, unquestionable, and binding on all members,” the statement added.

IPOB Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Suspension, Declares Move Null and Void

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Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies

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June 19, 2026

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Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies

Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies

The Kwara State Government has directed all public and private schools across the state to suspend graduation ceremonies, valedictory services, prize-giving days, and other end-of-session celebrations, citing prevailing security concerns and the need to safeguard students and school communities.

The directive was conveyed in an official letter signed by Mrs. Bunmi Osanupin, a director in the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, on behalf of the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe.

The letter, addressed to the Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, was made available to journalists in Ilorin on Friday.

According to the state government, the decision was taken in response to current security challenges and the need to maintain order, safety, and decorum within educational institutions across the state.

The ministry directed school proprietors, principals, headteachers, and administrators to ensure strict compliance with the directive, warning that any school found violating the order would face sanctions under existing regulations.

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“All school proprietors, principals, headteachers, and administrators are required to ensure strict compliance with this directive.

“Any school found to be in violation of this directive shall be liable to appropriate sanctions in accordance with existing regulations.

“By this notice, all concerned are advised to be guided accordingly,” the letter stated.

The government did not specify how long the suspension would remain in effect, but education authorities indicated that schools are expected to conclude academic activities without organising large gatherings that could pose security risks.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over security in parts of Kwara State and neighbouring North-Central states, where authorities have intensified efforts to prevent criminal attacks and protect public gatherings. Security agencies have repeatedly urged institutions and event organisers to adopt precautionary measures, especially during periods that attract large crowds.

Although graduation and valedictory ceremonies are traditionally held at the end of the academic session to celebrate graduating pupils and students, the state government said public safety must take precedence over social activities.

The directive affects nursery, primary, and secondary schools across the state, including privately owned institutions that typically organise elaborate end-of-year events.

Education stakeholders are expected to comply with the order while awaiting further guidance from the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development on alternative arrangements for marking the end of the 2025/2026 academic session.

The latest directive underscores the Kwara State Government’s commitment to prioritising the safety of students, teachers, parents, and school administrators amid evolving security challenges.

Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies

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

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June 19, 2026

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Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka – better known as Baba Ijesha and wife, Abiodun Folashade Tokunbo

‘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

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