LAGOS— The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended a 27-year-old housewife, Motunrayo Bakare, for the alleged brutal murder of her 36-year-old businessman husband, Alaba Bakare. The tragic incident occurred at their residence on Finance Road, Maplewood Estate, in the Oko-Oba/Abule-Egba area of Lagos State. The deceased, popularly known as "Bama," was the owner and managing director of the prominent Bama Hotel and Suites located in the Ojokoro/Abule-Egba area. According to preliminary reports and family disclosures, the couple had recently returned from a luxury family vacation in Dubai with their three children, which was meant to celebrate their anniversary. The celebration turned tragic shortly after their return when Motunrayo allegedly uncovered evidence that her husband had impregnated another woman. Reports indicate that a confrontation occurred following the discovery of the infidelity, which escalated into a fatal assault. Alaba Bakare succumbed to extensive physical injuries sustained during the domestic altercation. Following the attack, the Lagos State Police Command intervened and took Motunrayo Bakare into custody. Then-Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ade Ajisebutu, confirmed the arrest and stated that the victim`s body had been deposited at the Yaba Mainland Hospital morgue for a comprehensive autopsy. The Lagos State Command ordered an immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Yaba, for diligent prosecution. Three other individuals, believed to be the suspect`s brothers who were present or assisted during the aftermath, were also detained for questioning. The grim nature of the crime has provoked widespread grief and shock within the local community and across social media platforms. The tragedy has deserted the operations of Bama Hotel and Suites as workers and regular customers reeled from the loss of the young entrepreneur. Meanwhile, the three young children of the marriage have been left effectively orphaned, under the immediate care of extended family members. The victim`s father, Chief Olufemi Bakare, expressed his devastation and demanded swift justice from the state judiciary, stating that no marital grievance justifies such calculating violence. The case has reignited national conversations regarding the rising tide of extreme domestic violence, the devastating psychological impact of marital infidelity, and the urgent need for individuals to seek legal separation or professional counseling rather than resorting to fatal retaliation.

Men of the Oyo State Police Command have killed three persons suspected of being kidnappers. The suspects were killed in Otu in Itesiwaju local government area of Oyo, according to the Public Relations Officer of the Police department, Olayinka Ayanlade. The police also rescued a kidnapped victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, Ayanlade’s statement on Tuesday, said. Gbolagade, who was abducted in Okaka town, was rescued by operatives in collaboration with local hunters. “The operation also resulted in the successful rescue of an abducted victim, identified as Mr Mosudi Gbolagade, male, aged about 50 years, who had earlier been kidnapped at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area. “Although the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident, he has been evacuated for urgent medical attention and is currently receiving treatment. “Regrettably, one of the local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and was promptly rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care”.

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 Oyo State Police Command on Wednesday arrested two suspects, Shehu and Abubakar, in connection with the abduction of two staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria at Idi-Ayunre in Oluyole Local Government Area of the state. A statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, said the incident occurred at about 6 pm on Tuesday, May 20, 2026. He explained that a distress report was received at the Idi-Ayunre Divisional Police Headquarters from the chief security officer of CRIN, reporting the abduction of two staff members of the institution by unidentified armed men who reportedly invaded the premises and whisked the victims away to an unknown destination. The PPRO said upon receipt of the report, police operatives immediately visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment, during which preliminary findings revealed that about six armed men invaded the area before abducting the victims. Ayanlade said, “The State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that on May 19, 2026, at about 1800hrs, a distress report was received at Idi-Ayunre Divisional Police Headquarters from the Chief Security Officer of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, reporting the abduction of two staff members of the institution by unidentified armed men who reportedly invaded the premises of the institute and whisked the victims away to an unknown destination. “Upon receipt of the report, police operatives immediately visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment, during which preliminary findings revealed that about six armed men invaded the area before abducting the victims.” He said intensive bush combing and coordinated search operations had commenced across surrounding forested locations linked to the incident. The PPRO added that the state Commissioner of Police, Olugbemiga Abimbola, had directed the immediate deployment of tactical and intelligence assets, including operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators. The police spokesperson said, “It was during one of such operations on May 20, 2026, at about 0810hrs, that police operatives encountered and accosted two suspicious individuals identified as Shehu and Abubakar. “Upon preliminary interrogation, the duo volunteered to lead the operatives to the hideout of their accomplices. “However, while approaching the suspected location, the team came under gunfire attack from armed men believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate. “The operatives responded professionally, repelled the attack, and successfully extracted the two suspects, who are currently in the custody of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for further investigation and intelligence exploitation. “While these operations are ongoing and yielding actionable leads, the command has observed with serious concern the circulation of false and misleading reports by certain media outlets and social media platforms alleging another mass abduction in Abanla community and other parts of Ibadan. “For the avoidance of doubt, the State Police Command categorically states that no such incident has been reported anywhere within Ibadan metropolis or its environs apart from the already reported CRIN incident presently receiving robust operational attention. “The command views the dissemination of such unverified and sensational reports as highly irresponsible and capable of creating unnecessary fear, panic, and tension among residents. “Beyond this, the spread of false information has the tendency to undermine public confidence in ongoing security efforts while equally diverting limited operational and emergency response resources away from genuine security concerns requiring immediate attention. “It is against this backdrop that the command strongly advises media organisations, bloggers, and social media influencers to uphold the principles of responsible reportage by verifying security-related information through appropriate channels before publication.” He said the police remain committed to maintaining a productive relationship with the media, adding that such partnership must be guided by accuracy, professionalism, and the collective interest of public safety and national security. The command reassured residents that robust security measures have been emplaced across the affected axis and other strategic locations within the state to deny criminal elements any operational foothold. It also encouraged the general public to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding while continuing to support the police and other security agencies with timely and credible information capable of aiding ongoing operations.

Reports regarding a distress video featuring Mrs. Grace Alamu—the principal of a school in Oriire Local Government, Oyo State—have circulated following a devastating attack on the Ahoro-Esinele community. In the footage, she appeals to the government and the public for urgent assistance and peaceful dialogue with bandits to rescue abducted schoolchildren and staff. Armed men on motorcycles violently invaded multiple schools and surrounding communities, resulting in fatalities and the mass abduction of pupils and staff. The attackers killed two people, including a headteacher/assistant headmaster, and abducted an unspecified number of students along with Principal Mrs. Alamu. A massive manhunt and rescue operation is underway across the thick forests of Oriire LGA by the Oyo State Police Command, local vigilantes, and Amotekun. Following the attack, the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) strongly criticized Governor Seyi Makinde, demanding an immediate rescue of the victims and the establishment of a permanent military base in the area

OGBOMOSO – Public anxiety is mounting across the Ogbomoso zone following a wave of violent crimes, including a brazen assault on a farmhand coming on the heels of the shocking headline event,Bandits Storm Oriire Secondary School, Abduct Female Principal and Students After Shooting Tutor.” The latest incident occurred in Elere Ajinapa, located within the Oriire Local Government Area—the same general vicinity thrown into panic by the recent school invasion. According to a local farm owner whose identity is withheld for security reasons, two Bororo herdsmen deliberately herded their cattle into his cashew farm to graze and pilfered cashew nuts. When confronted by farmhands, the suspects fled. "The boys pursued them and got hold of one of them, but the other emerged later to attack them with a sword as they wanted to put the apprehended one on the motorcycle," the farmer narrated. The assault resulted in a deep, severe cut to 27-year-old Alao Ayoola, who was rushed for medical treatment. The aftermath of the violent confrontation has triggered accusations of law enforcement misconduct. After the attack was reported to the Igbon Police Station, the primary suspect also arrived at the same clinic seeking medical aid. "We suspected foul play," the farm owner stated. "What might likely have happened was that the Bororo man had also informed the police and he was advised to seek medical treatment too so that the police could record it as ‘two-fighting.’" Frustrated by the local station`s handling, the farmer escalated the case to the Area Command Office in Ogbomoso, which intervened and formally arrested both suspects. However, the farm owner remains outraged by reports that the police intend to arraign the suspects merely for "assault and wounding" instead of attempted murder, despite medical bills already exceeding N500,000 The violent clash underscores a rapidly deteriorating security situation in the region, mirroring the lawlessness seen in widespread reports of herdsmen destroying farmlands and the brutal school raids devastating local communities.

OGBOMOSO– A fresh crisis is brewing in the Ogbomoso zone of Oyo State, as a farm owner has raised the alarm over a violent attack on his employee by two Bororo herdsmen, expressing deep dissatisfaction with the handling of the case by local police. The incident occurred last week in Elere Ajinapa, located within the Oriire Local Government Area, near Gambari in the Surulere Local Government Area. According to the farm owner, whose identity is withheld for security reasons, the two suspects deliberately moved their cattle into his cashew farm to graze. When confronted by farmhands about the destruction and the theft of cashew nuts, the herders fled. "The boys pursued them and got hold of one of them, but the other emerged later to attack them with a sword as they wanted to put the apprehended one on the motorcycle," the farmer narrated. The attack resulted in a severe, deep cut to one of the workers, identified as 27-year-old Alao Ayoola. While the matter was reported to the Igbon Police Station, a strange development caused the farm owner to lose confidence in the local division. "Something strange happened as the attacker also reported at the same clinic for treatment, so, we suspected foul play. What might likely have happened was that the Bororo man had also informed the police and he was advised to seek medical treatment too so that the police could record it as ‘two-fighting,’" the owner explained. Due to suspicions that local officers were compromising the investigation, the owner reported the case to the Area Command Office in Ogbomoso, prompting the formal arrest of the two suspects. Despite the arrests, the farmer fumed that the suspects are allegedly being planned to be charged with lesser offenses. "We are not satisfied on how the matter is being handled by the police because we are hearing they are planning to arraign the suspect for assault and wound instead of attempted murder," he said, noting that they have already spent over (mathbb{N}500,000) on the injured boy`s medical treatment.

The Bauchi State Police Command says it has arrested four men in Azare, Katagum Local Government Area, over allegations of criminal conspiracy, adultery and inciting public disturbance. A report by a security expert, Zagazola Makama said the suspects were brought to the Azare Division by the Zonal Commander of Hisbah, Katagum Zone, Mallam Rilwan Khairan. He identified the suspects as one Bashir Adamu of Comprehensive Area; Auwalu Mohammed of Gadum Area; Mohammed Mohammed of Sabuwar NEPA Area; and Salisu Mohammed of the same locality. Quoting police sources, Makama said the men were alleged to have entered into an agreement among themselves to exchange their wives for sexual intercourse. According to him, authorities said the act could lead to public disorder. “The suspects were brought to the station by Hisbah officials following intelligence on their alleged arrangement to exchange spouses, which may likely cause breach of peace in the community,” the source said. Police said the case was under investigation, adding that appropriate legal actions would be taken upon completion of inquiries.

Popular Nollywood actor, Alex Ekubo, is dead. He was 40. His death was confirmed on Tuesday by his colleagues, Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Godwin Nnadiekwe, who claimed to be his ally. Sharing on her Instagram story, Akindele wrote, “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex. ‘Ore mi like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in Peace, Alex.” Meanwhile, Ninalowo, who is now in the United States, also mourned on his page, writing, “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.” Nnadiekwe, on the other hand, shared, “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul, and I’m lost for words because this wasn’t the plan, Alex Ekubo. To think you already prepared your Will — It’s heartbroken, I can’t quite describe. Rest well, my friend.” As of the time of filing this report, his family has not issued a statement on his death. Recall that fans across social media recently expressed concerns for Ekubo following his first public appearance after months of social media silence. The light-skinned movie star had been absent from Instagram since December 30, 2024, sparking speculation about his well-being. However, a recent video that surfaced online brought him back into the spotlight, though it also raised further questions. In the viral clip, Ekubo was seen interacting with a group of children, appearing noticeably slimmer and subdued. The video, posted by user @AsakyGRN on X (formerly Twitter), was captioned, “Alex Ekubo spotted for the first time since disappearing from social media.” The footage triggered a wave of emotional reactions from fans, many of whom noted a significant change in his appearance and questioned his wellbeing. Before his demise, the actor dismissed marriage in favour of his quest to earn more money in the film industry. In January 2023, his then-lover, Fancy Acholonu, in an interview, revealed that she dated the late actor for five years without them having any intimacy. The US-based model also called off her wedding to Ekubo in December 2021, after apologising to the film star a year later for calling it off. Acholonu affirmed her love for the actor, saying that “like our shirt says, Nothing makes sense when we’re apart @alexxekubo you still have my heart. “I miss you, I love you, and I’m truly sorry for all the hurt & pain you and your family went through with our breakup.” She noted that her actions were out of character, and she has realised she could have controlled her emotions and not been so overreactive. However, in a post on his Instagram page, Ekubo implied that he was aware that some people were curious about why he has not yet been married. The film star said he was more interested in making money. He urged people not to bother about his marital status.

A graduate of the University of Jos, John Arum Azi, has recounted his traumatic experience after spending 11 days in captivity following a fake job offer that allegedly lured him into the hands of kidnappers in Zamfara State. Azi narrated his ordeal during a testimony at a church in Tudun Wada, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Sunday. According to him, he was abducted on April 11, 2026, shortly after travelling from Jos to Zaria, Kaduna State, for what he believed was a legitimate welding job opportunity. He explained that the suspected kidnappers had persistently contacted him by phone, offering him welding work and even sending him transport fare to convince him the offer was genuine. “They kept calling me, asking me to come and work for them. They even sent transport money, so I believed it was a real job,” he said. Azi said after arriving in Zaria, he contacted the individuals, who instructed him to board a motorcycle heading to a village. Although he became suspicious during the journey, he ignored the warning signs because he desperately needed work. “I started having doubts, but I told myself maybe it was a connection that could help me. I did not know they were kidnappers,” he said. According to him, moments after arriving at the village, a man approached him claiming to be the person who had contacted him about the job. He said he was then taken on a motorcycle into a remote forest where he noticed another heavily armed man waiting for them. “I saw a gun I had never seen before in my life. The man told me not to be afraid and claimed the person was a hunter, but deep down I knew something was wrong,” he recounted. Azi said he was immediately forced to kneel while the kidnappers searched him, seized his phone, bag and work tools, and handed him strange clothes and a face mask to wear. He added that the abductors later moved him from Kaduna through Giwa Local Government Area into Zamfara State after several hours of travelling on motorcycles through forests and isolated routes. “We spent almost six hours moving through the bush on motorcycles. There was no security anywhere,” he said. Mob razes suspected kidnappers’ hideout after Anambra doctor’s rescue Police arrest 55 suspected kidnappers, rescue 58 victims in Edo Gunmen abduct three family members in Ogun community File: John Arum while in the kidnappers’ den According to him, upon arriving at the camp, the kidnappers tied his hands and legs before contacting his family and demanding a ransom of N30m. “I gave them my elder brother’s number. They called him and demanded N30m,” he said. Azi further narrated how he was repeatedly tortured and interrogated about his religion while in captivity. “They were shooting guns everywhere and asking questions. Out of fear, I initially denied being a Christian because I thought they would kill me,” he said. However, he said severe beatings by the abductors eventually forced him to confess his faith. “While they were beating me, I suddenly shouted ‘Jesus.’ That was when they discovered I was a Christian,” he added. According to him, the kidnappers thereafter nicknamed him “Pastor” throughout his stay in captivity. Azi said constant prayers and faith in God kept him alive during the ordeal. “The only thing I kept doing was praying and asking God to save me,” he said. He explained that after negotiations, the kidnappers reduced the ransom demand from N30m to N6m. However, even after receiving the money, the abductors allegedly delayed his release and demanded an additional N4m. “They started beating me again and said my family should add another N4m. At that point, I thought I would not survive,” he said. According to him, support from relatives, friends and sympathisers eventually secured his freedom after several days in captivity. The UNIJOS graduate said he returned home traumatised but grateful to be alive.