Dr Charles Omole, the author of ‘From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, has alleged that government and security officials made a huge amount of money from kidnapping under Buhari’s administration. Omole alleged this on Thursday during an interview on State Affairs, a podcast hosted by Edmund Obilo. He claimed that government and security officials turned the insecurity into a kidnapping industry complex. According to him, “Monetisation of insecurity was rampant under Buhari’s administration. There’s no doubt about that. “Insecurity became more profitable. To make the government pay, the kidnappers had to cause maximum embarrassment to the government. “The kidnappers go to a village and kidnap 100 children, whose parents are peasants. They don’t expect the poor parents to pay, but the government. “This started happening under Buhari’s administration. For example, it was a situation where government and security officials would ask Buhari to pay 500 million naira to get the kidnapped children released, and he would approve it. “Maybe the children were actually released based on 50 or 100 million naira. The remaining 400 million is pocketed by people. “The point is, there were people within the system benefiting from it. So if you were benefiting from it, then the more kidnapping that happens, the better for you. That’s the problem.

United States President Donald Trump has announced that he will not attend the wedding of his son, Donald Trump Jr., citing pressing government responsibilities and his commitment to the United States. In a post on his Truth account on Friday, Trump said the demands of governance would prevent him from being present at the ceremony involving Donald Trump Jr. and his fiancée, Bettina Anderson. “While I very much wanted to be with my son, Don Jr., and the newest member of the Trump Family, his soon to be wife, Bettina, circumstances pertaining to Government, and my love for the United States of America, do not allow me to do so,” Trump said. The president described the period as an “important period of time,” stressing that affairs of state required his continued presence at the White House. The U.S. President also congratulated his son and his fiancé on their upcoming wedding.

Oyo State Government has suspended all school excursions, field trips, sports competitions and other activities outside school premises in the state. THENEWSCREDIT reports that the directive comes after last week’s deadly coordinated abduction attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area – where several students, teachers who were abducted still remain captive. The directive, issued by the state Ministry of Education, takes immediate effect and overrides all previously approved trips and external school activities. In a circular dated May 22, 2026 and signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs B.T. Oyinloye, and addressed to education authorities across the state, the government said the move was prompted by rising security fears after the Ogbomoso kidnapping incident. According to the circular, the directive became necessary “in view of the recent security concerns”. The circular stated: “In view of the recent security concerns, the Ministry is taking steps to safeguard the lives of students and members of staff in all schools in Oyo State. “All School Administrators are hereby directed to suspend all excursions, field trips, sports competitions and any other activities that require moving students outside school premises until further notice. “Kindly note further that prior approvals granted by the Ministry are hereby overridden by this directive. “Meanwhile, the safety of our children is non-negotiable and takes precedence over all academic and extracurricular activities. “School Administrators are equally enjoined to keep students within school premises during school hours and should report any suspicious activity around school premises to Law Enforcement Agencies within their jurisdiction. “This directive takes immediate effect and will be reviewed as soon as the security situation improves. Kindly ensure strict and necessary compliance with the content of this circular.” The order was circulated to the Executive Chairmen of TESCOM and SUBEB, Permanent Secretaries/IGES, Tutor-Generals, Zonal Directors, Local Inspectors of Education, principals and head teachers across the state. The government’s action comes amid growing anxiety among parents and residents over the safety of students and teachers in schools across Oyo State following the deadly abduction attack in Ogbomoso.

The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has denied allegations that the Nigerian military is undermining democratic authorities, insisting that the Armed Forces remain committed to constitutional order and civilian rule. The clarification was made by the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, in a statement issued in Abuja, where he described the claims as false and misleading. Gusau stressed that the military remains professional and loyal to the Constitution, noting that its operations across the country are carried out strictly in line with lawful directives and in support of national security. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain loyal to the Constitution and democratic institutions of the country. Any suggestion that the military is undermining democratic authorities is false, misleading and unfounded,” the statement said. He further urged Nigerians to disregard misinformation capable of creating unnecessary panic, reaffirming the military’s commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity while respecting democratic governance.

The burial arrangements for late Adesiyan Adegboye, one of the teachers killed during the coordinated attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, commenced on Friday at Ayegun Baptist Church, Ogbomoso. Adegboye, 49, was killed at the scene of the abduction last Friday and is scheduled to be buried later today at his residence in the Owolake area of Ogbomoso. The deceased, born on December 11, 1976, was murdered by the bandits who invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, at about 9:30am. THENEWSCREDIT that teachers and students were abducted during the coordinated attacks on the three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Oyo slain teacher Casket of the late teacher, Adesiyan Adegboye during the burial programme in Ogbomoso. Photo: Ademola Adegbite. Following the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, visited the scene on Saturday and deployed additional detectives from the Force Headquarters in Abuja to collaborate with the joint security team in ongoing rescue operations. The deployment, according to the police, was aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and students. Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed that seven students were abducted from Community Secondary School, while 18 pupils and seven teachers were kidnapped from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School. Oyo slain teacher Casket of the late teacher, Adesiyan Adegboye during the burial programme in Ogbomoso. Photo: Ademola Adegbite. He also confirmed that one person was killed during the attack. The incident triggered widespread panic in Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with many parents rushing to schools to withdraw their children over fears of further attacks. Some schools were also forced to shut down temporarily following rumours of bandits infiltrating the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, an allegation the institution’s management later dismissed as false.

EKITI, NIGERIA — The management of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has indefinitely suspended all academic lectures, directing students to remain indoors following reported security breaches and activities of armed bandits in the neighboring Ayegbaju and Oye-Ekiti communities. The security alert, which spread rapidly across student networks with the rallying cry "Ekiti Kete! Stay Safe," has thrown the university community into a state of high vigilance. Local sources report a sudden surge in suspected criminal activities around the campus periphery, prompting swift intervention from law enforcement. Joint security operatives, including the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups, have heavily deployed to the affected axes to restore order and secure the student residential clusters. University authorities urge all students to strict compliance: Remain inside your hostels and avoid transit between Oye and Ayegbaju. Keep your FUOYE student ID card on your person at all times for easy identification at checkpoints. Signal any unusual movements or suspicious characters to the university security unit immediately. Official updates regarding the resumption of lectures will be communicated as the situation is brought under control.

OGBOMOSO — A profound cloud of grief and sober reflection enveloped the ancient city of Ogbomoso today as prominent figures from across Nigeria gathered to pay their final respects to an icon of humanity, Dr. Sunday Oladipo Adedokun Oladeji. The late Chief Medical Director and CEO of Mainspring Hospital was celebrated in a deeply emotional funeral service at the Beulah Baptist Centre, drawing tears, praise, and a powerful call for self-examination from all in attendance. The atmosphere inside the auditorium was heavy with sorrow, yet punctuated by a collective sense of gratitude for a life spent in the service of the vulnerable. Delivering a gripping sermon titled "Death Cannot Kill Your Testimony Before God and Man" (drawn from Hebrews 11:1-6), Rev. Dr. Sola Lawal, the Pastor of Oore-Ofe Oluwa Baptist Church, moved the congregation to tears. "Do not weep for Dr. Sunday Oladeji; weep for yourselves," the cleric declared, urging the audience to evaluate their own impact on humanity. He praised the late medical director`s unmatched diligence, competence, and golden character, challenging other healthcare practitioners to emulate his selfless footsteps. Rev. Dr. Lawal implored the crowd to adopt the core values that defined Dr. Oladeji`s medical career: Lead with Mercy:Treat patients with profound tenderness and empathy. Give Selflessly:Open your hands to help the poor with whatever resources you possess. Bear Good Fruit: Live an honorable life that leaves a lasting legacy after you are gone. Cleric Fires Back at Social Media Detractors In a moment of raw candor, Rev. Dr. Lawal addressed the painful sting of online gossip that often follows a tragic loss. He strongly cautioned social media users to desist from spreading malicious misconceptions and unverified rumors regarding Dr. Oladeji`s passing. Setting the record straight on the immense personal sacrifices the doctor made for his community, the cleric revealed that Dr. Oladeji routinely took loans from cooperative societies and private individuals just to finance and keep Mainspring Hospital running for the public good. "People must stop spreading rubbish," Dr. Lawal stated firmly, defending the integrity of the deceased. He concluded with an emotional altar call, urging the gathering to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ and live for eternity. The high-profile event stood as a testament to Dr. Oladeji`s immense reach, drawing a powerful delegation of traditional, political, and spiritual leaders. Among the notable dignitaries who sat in the solemn assembly were:Dr. Samson Adegoke MegidaHon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-AkalaRev. Dr. Niyi-Thomas Ojo, President of the Ogbomoso Baptist ConferenceRev. Dr. John Idowu Fatunbi, Pastor of Oja-Oba Baptist ChurchHigh-Chief Representatives sent by the Onpetu of Ijeru Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Sunday Oyediran, Rev Makinde of Oritamefa Baptist Church,Ibadan,Hon Sanjo Adedoyin,majority Leader of Oyo State house of assembly. As Dr. Oladeji’s earthly journey came to a close, the city of Ogbomoso did not just mourn a doctor; they mourned a savior of the sick and a pillar of the community whose testimony will echo for generations to come.

OGBOMOSO— Prominent sons and daughters of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, and dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered today at the Beulah Baptist Centre to celebrate the impactful life of the late Dr. Sunday Oladipo Adedokun Oladeji, the Chief Medical Director and CEO of Mainspring Hospital, Ogbomoso. Delivering the sermon titled "Death Cannot Kill Your Testimony Before God and Man," drawing from Hebrews 11:1-6, the officiating minister and Pastor of Oore-Ofe Oluwa Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Sola Lawal, urged the congregation to reflect on their own lives. "Do not cry for Dr. Sunday Oladeji; weep for yourselves," Dr. Lawal charged the audience, questioning who would miss them or benefit from their lives when they pass away. He fiercely challenged other medical practitioners to emulate Dr. Oladeji’s extraordinary commitment to charity and humanity. Approach patients and the public with deep compassion. Use personal resources actively to lift up the vulnerable. Live a life of good character that leaves fruits after death. Cleric Debunks Social Media Rumours Addressing recent online speculation surrounding the doctor`s passing, Rev. Dr. Lawal strongly cautioned social media users to desist from spreading misconceptions and unverified rumors. Setting the record straight, the cleric revealed the sacrifices behind Dr. Oladeji`s medical practice. He explained that the late CEO financed Mainspring Hospital by taking loans from various cooperative societies and individuals to keep healthcare accessible. "People should stop spreading rubbish," Dr. Lawal stated, describing the late medical director as exceptionally competent, devoted, diligent, efficient, and deeply committed to his character. He concluded by calling on the gathering to give their lives to Jesus Christ and live purposefully. The solemn event drew influential leaders from the political, religious, and traditional spheres who came to honor the deceased . Notable dignitaries present included:Dr. Samson Adegoke Megida,Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala ,Rev. Dr. Niyi-Thomas Ojo, President of the Ogbomoso Baptist Conference ,Rev. Dr. John Idowu Fatunbi, Pastor of Oja-Oba Baptist Church, Ogbomoso,Rev Makinde pastor Oritamefa BaptistChurch,Ibadan,Representatives of the Onpetu of Ijeru Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Sunday Oyediran,Hon Sanjo Adedoyin,majority Leader of Oyo State house of assembly. The atmosphere remained one of sober reflection as the community united to celebrate a man whose medical practice prioritized human life and community development above all else.

Adesiyan Adegboye, one of the teachers killed during the coordinated attack at Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, will be laid to rest today, May 22, 2026, in Ogbomoso. Adegboye, aged 49, was killed at the scene of the abduction last Friday. According to a copy of the burial programme obtained by The PUNCH in Ibadan, the state capital, on Thursday, the deceased will be buried at his residence in the Owolake area of Ogbomoso today (Friday). The deceased, born on December 11, 1976, was gruesomely murdered by yet-to-be-identified bandits, who invaded the schools around 9:30 am last Friday. THENEWSCREDIT reports that scores of teachers and students were abducted during the coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, on Friday around 9:30 a.m. It will also be recalled that Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, who visited the scene of the incident on Saturday, deployed more detectives from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, to collaborate with the joint security team as part of intensified efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and students of three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The deployment was aimed at rescuing the victims unhurt. Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed that seven students were abducted from Community Secondary School, while 18 children and seven teachers were kidnapped from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School, adding that one person was killed during the attack. This came as palpable fear gripped residents of the ancient city over an alleged invasion of the town by bandits. The invasion led some parents to quickly rush to schools to take their children home, while some schools hurriedly shut down. There were also rumours that bandits had infiltrated Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, an information the management of the institution described as false.

The Presidency on Thursday described as fake news, report claiming that President Bola Tinubu is seeking to carry out constitutional amendments that will change Nigeria’s name to the United States of Nigeria. A statement issued by Tinubu’s media aide Bayo Onanuga also declared that the report purporting plot to abolish Sharia Law in the Northern region, is fake. According to Onanuga, the story, which cited anonymous sources, “is part of the dubious plot by some desperate politicians to create disaffection in our country, stir up a political crisis, and heat the polity ahead of the general elections. “Nigerians should ignore the viral story in its entirety because the purveyors of the fake news are agents of destabilisation and merchants of disorder”. He clarified that the president has “no plan whatsoever to send any bill code-named Project True Federation to the National Assembly by December 15, a few weeks before the general election”. “President Tinubu is focused on the arduous task of entrenching and deepening the economic reforms his administration has embarked upon. He is focused on delivering more tangible dividends to Nigerians. “Nigerians should be wary of consuming fake and divisive reports, which will proliferate as the nation begins political campaigns, a prelude to the general elections in January 2026,” the statement added.