Videos circulating on social media showing Nigerian security personnel paying homage to controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi have sparked public outrage. The cleric remains heavily scrutinized by human rights activists and the government for advocating amnesty for bandits and claiming that ransom payments are necessary to sustain their operations. The backlash over these interactions stems from several key aspects of his public engagements and security record: Gumi has frequently acted as a mediator, visiting armed bandit camps to advocate for dialogue. While he maintains that negotiation is the only viable path to peace in northwestern Nigeria, critics, including the Nigerian Ministry of Defence, argue that these actions legitimize terrorism and embolden criminal networks. Gumi has publicly disclosed that his visits to these armed groups for negotiations were conducted with the knowledge of or in the presence of Nigerian Police and government officials. This revelation has added fuel to claims that state officials are indirectly engaging with non-state actors. The cleric has severely criticized aggressive military bombardments by the Nigerian Army and foreign intervention, warning that they could escalate the crisis. He has also previously argued that kidnappers rely on ransom money to fund their operations and survive ongoing military crackdowns. His public statements have often prompted swift pushback. The Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services have historically summoned and cautioned the cleric over polarizing statements or accusations targeting military institutions.

An Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, has come under criticism after a now-deleted TikTok video surfaced online showing him threatening Nigerians who record police officers while on duty. In the viral clip cited by THENEWSCREDIT, the officer warned that he would shoot anyone caught filming him during operations. He said, “Any day I’m on duty as a Nigerian police officer, let anyone record me. That person will provide the officer who gave them the order to be filming us, because I will clear everybody down.” His statement sparked outrage among Nigerians and media commentators, with many describing the remarks as dangerous and unlawful. Human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, also condemned the comments and called for disciplinary action against the officer, while several Nigerians tagged police authorities demanding his removal. Following the backlash, Isokpehi later apologized for the comments, admitting that citizens have the constitutional right to record police officers carrying out public duties. He explained that his outburst was driven by frustration over distractions faced by armed officers during operations. The ASP also cited personal struggles, including surviving a bullet wound and poor welfare conditions within the force. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force confirmed that administrative actions are already being taken over the incident.

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.

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.

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.

Alex Otti has advised youths in Abia State not to depend solely on certificates obtained from higher institutions for job security, but to acquire advanced digital skills and knowledge to survive in the 21st-century economy. Governor Otti gave the advice on Wednesday while addressing 850 Abia youths participating in the three-month Techrise Cohort 3 programme. He made it clear that certificates alone are no longer sufficient for employment and survival in highly competitive environments if the youths lack digital skills for innovation and entrepreneurship. Governor Otti, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, said the three-month training programme was designed to help the youths become entrepreneurs, innovators, and job creators, and ultimately escape unemployment. “So do not just look for certificates. Seek deep competence and hands-on problem-solving skills,” Otti charged them. In her address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Oge Maduka, said the youths would be trained in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Maduka added that the participants would also receive training in cybersecurity, product design, software development, data engineering, digital innovation, and other emerging technologies.