Bandits Kidnap Four in Kaduna Days After Mass Abduction of Worshippers….. Barely five days after the abduction of 177 Christian worshippers in Kurmin Wali community, bandits have launched another attack in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. In the fresh incident, four persons were reportedly kidnapped, heightening fear among residents. Security agencies have begun investigations as communities call for urgent action to curb the rising wave of kidnappings.

Bandits have killed an Islamic cleric, Malam Zainu AB Mada, in Zamfara State after collecting ₦2 million ransom, two phones, and ₦70,000 airtime from his family. Malam Zainu was abducted along the Kwatarkwashi–Mada highway, a road now known for frequent bandit attacks. Despite his family meeting all the demands, the bandits still brutally killed him. His funeral prayer was held on Thursday. This tragic killing shows a painful reality: paying ransom no longer guarantees safety. Zamfara residents continue to live in fear as kidnappings, killings, and attacks on major roads persist, despite government assurances. How many more lives will be lost before real action is taken? 💔🇳🇬 #Zamfara #Banditry #Insecurity #Kidnapping #NigeriaNews #StopTheKillings

Kwara Kidnap Wahala: Terrorists Demand N20m, Threaten To Kill Trader If Family Misses Deadline Terrorists who abducted a female trader in Omu-Aran, Irepodun LGA of Kwara State, have demanded a ransom of N20 million, threatening to kill her if the money is not paid before their deadline. An audio recording reveals the kidnappers rejecting the family’s offer of about N2.5–N3 million and mocking their pleas. The victim’s relatives say they have sold nearly all their belongings and are appealing to Nigerians for urgent help. The case adds to the growing wave of kidnappings in Kwara, where families are forced into debt to save loved ones. #KwaraInsecurity #KidnappingCrisis #NigeriaNews

Stop Negotiating With Bandits, Terrorists – Nigeria’s Defence Minister Warns States, Local Governments Nigeria’s Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has warned state and local governments to stop negotiating or paying ransom to terrorists and bandits, describing such engagements as deceptive tactics that only embolden criminals. Speaking to BBC Hausa, Musa stressed that criminal groups never honor agreements, citing Katsina as an example. He urged citizens to report kidnappings instead of paying ransoms and called on states to address root causes of insecurity through education, jobs, and social development. Musa emphasized that cooperation between citizens and security agencies is key to ending insecurity nationwide.

FG Doesn’t Pay Ransom for Kidnapped Victims – Defence Minister The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), has insisted that the Federal Government does not pay ransom to free kidnapped victims. Speaking in an interview, Musa said security agencies rely on military pressure and intelligence operations to rescue abducted persons, including schoolchildren. He warned that paying ransom only strengthens criminal groups and encourages more kidnappings. The minister urged families and communities to report cases to security agencies instead of negotiating with abductors. He also advised Nigerians to stop supplying bandits with food or support, stressing that public cooperation is vital to ending banditry nationwide. #DefenceMinister #Kidnapping #NigeriaSecurity

AAU Students Wahala Don Burst! Take-It-Back Slams Police Over 52 Students’ Remand, Demands Freedom Now Wahala don set for Edo State as the Take-It-Back Movement has condemned the arrest and remand of 52 Ambrose Alli University (AAU) students in Ekpoma, describing it as a dangerous abuse of power and a clear violation of human rights. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Sanyaolu Juwon, the group said police carried out midnight raids on student hostels, storming rooms and arresting youths who had earlier protested against rising kidnappings and insecurity in the state. The movement said the action was aimed at intimidating students who exercised their constitutional right to peaceful protest. It noted that while kidnappers continue to operate freely, authorities have chosen to chase protesters instead of criminals. Take-It-Back also revealed that another resident was abducted just a day after the protest, exposing what it called the state’s failure to protect lives. The group demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the 52 students, withdrawal of all “bogus” charges, an end to harassment of protesters, a public apology from the government and police, and punishment for officers involved, warning that repression will only fuel more resistance.

Wahala Burst for Edo Oo! Ekpoma DPO Under Fire Over ‘Hausa Officer Who Won’t Listen’ Remark Amid Protest Wahala don set for Edo State oo! A Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, is currently facing heavy backlash after a video surfaced online in which he allegedly made an ethnically charged statement while addressing protesters. In the viral footage circulating on social media, the officer—whose identity is yet to be officially confirmed—is heard telling demonstrators: “Don’t worry, I will leave Ekpoma, and they will bring a Hausa officer who won’t listen to anybody.” The remark was reportedly made during a protest sparked by the killing of a young medical graduate, who was abducted and later murdered by kidnappers even after a ransom had been paid. The tragic incident had triggered anger and frustration among residents, who took to the streets to demand improved security and accountability. However, instead of calming tensions, the DPO’s comment has now set social media on fire, with many Nigerians describing it as insensitive, divisive, and ethnically provocative. Nigerians React: “This One No Pure At All” Following the video’s circulation, reactions poured in from across the country, with many users condemning what they described as ethnic stereotyping and unprofessional conduct by a senior police officer. One X user, Mr Gerald (@Mr_Gerrie01), wrote: > “A very insensitive police officer.” Another user, Everything Politics (@Everypolitics1), said: > “This statement is troubling because it unfairly stereotypes and dehumanises Hausa people, implying they are incapable of empathy or dialogue. Ethnicity should never be used as a threat or a tool of intimidation.” Ekong De Superstar (@EkongGodson) added: > “Imagine what a supposed DPO is spewing. Protecting the lives of the people you swore to serve has now turned to ethnic tirade.” Similarly, Mister Balo (@MubarakBalogun) described the comment as irresponsible, while Iamowolabi (@Iamowolabi01) urged the officer to focus on his duty: > “Oga, do your job to protect people, no deh threaten them.” “We Need Security, Not Ethnic Talk” Other Nigerians acknowledged the emotional tension surrounding the protest but insisted that bringing ethnicity into the matter only worsens divisions. Hephzibah Behulah (@HephzibaBehulah) wrote: > “No one should have to live in fear of kidnapping every day, especially students just trying to get an education. That case where the young medical graduate was killed even after ransom was paid is tragic and shows how bad things have gotten.” She added that while the DPO may have sounded frustrated, invoking ethnicity was unnecessary and harmful: > “The protesters are right to demand better security. Threatening to replace one officer with another who ‘won’t listen’ doesn’t solve the real problem.” Calls for Accountability Grow Louder As the controversy continues, many Nigerians are now calling on the Edo State Police Command and the Nigeria Police Force headquarters to address the matter, investigate the officer’s conduct, and reaffirm their commitment to professionalism and unity. For many observers, the incident reflects a deeper frustration with insecurity, police-community relations, and the handling of public anger over kidnappings and violent crime. Wahala don burst oo — because when people dey cry for protection, na unity dem expect, not ethnic threats. Nigerians dey watch wetin go happen next.

Is Kogi Safe for Travelers Anymore? Bandits Abduct FCE Okene Lecturer on Kabba–Okene Road as Daylight Kidnappings and Highway Attacks Spread Across Yagba West How safe are Nigeria’s highways, and can commuters still travel through Kogi State without fear? These questions have returned to the forefront following the abduction of a lecturer from the Federal College of Education (FCE), Okene, by armed bandits along the Kabba–Okene Road on January 9, 2026. According to reports, gunmen ambushed commuters on the busy highway in a coordinated attack that left travelers in panic. Although Nigerian Army personnel stationed in Kabba responded swiftly and rescued several victims, the abductors succeeded in taking the FCE lecturer away. As of the time of reporting, the victim’s identity had not been officially disclosed. The incident has further intensified fear among students, residents, and regular road users, many of whom rely on the Kabba–Okene route for daily travel. The road has become increasingly notorious for violent attacks, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures from both the Kogi State Government and the Federal Government. This latest abduction is not an isolated case. Earlier the same day, bandits reportedly struck along the Egbe–Okoloke Road in Yagba West Local Government Area, abducting a man identified as Lanlege in a daylight attack. Local sources said the victim was intercepted while going about his routine activities and forcibly taken away. Residents also recall multiple kidnappings along the Omi-Odo Ara Road in Yagba West on December 30, 2025, where several people were reportedly abducted, though the exact number of victims remains unclear. These repeated incidents point to a troubling pattern of highway insecurity, daylight abductions, and the growing boldness of armed groups. Community leaders and road users are once again demanding a heavier security presence on major highways, warning that continued inaction could cripple education, commerce, and mobility across the region. The abduction of a lecturer has also raised alarms within academic circles, with fears that insecurity may begin to disrupt schooling and professional life. As banditry expands across key transport routes, many Nigerians are asking: Who is protecting travelers on these highways? Why are attacks increasing despite military presence? And how many more kidnappings must occur before decisive action is taken?

Is Kogi Becoming Unsafe for Daytime Travel? Bandits Kidnap Resident on Egbe-Okoloke Road as Yagba West Communities Demand Urgent Security Action Is insecurity in Kogi State spiralling out of control, even in broad daylight? Fear gripped residents of Yagba West Local Government Area on Friday after suspected bandits abducted a man identified as Lanlege along the Egbe-Okoloke Road, a route increasingly notorious for criminal attacks. According to local sources, the victim was travelling for his daily activities when he was intercepted and forcibly taken away by armed assailants. The fact that the kidnapping occurred during the day has heightened anxiety among commuters and nearby communities, who say that no time of day now feels safe on major roads in the area. The incident has intensified long-standing concerns over rising insecurity in Yagba West, where residents report frequent kidnappings, killings, and the takeover of farmlands by criminal groups. Community members are calling for urgent government intervention, intensified patrols, and sustained security presence to prevent further attacks and to secure the release of the abducted victim. Motorists have also been advised to exercise extreme caution when using the Egbe-Okoloke Road pending improved security measures. This latest attack comes amid growing public frustration across parts of Kogi State. Recently, youths in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area staged protests over worsening violence and the abandonment of communities, only to be dispersed by police using tear gas. Protesters carried placards reading “Bunuland Bleeds” and “Why Should We Ask for Permission to Live?,” lamenting that dozens of communities—such as Kayetoro, Kiri, and Ole—have been deserted due to repeated attacks and killings. Residents say fear has forced many families to flee their ancestral homes, while others accuse authorities of failing to protect lives and property. Reports of multiple abductions on other routes, including the Omi-Odo Ara Road, have further deepened anxiety in Yagba West and surrounding areas. As kidnappings continue and protests erupt over insecurity, many are asking urgent questions: How safe are Kogi’s highways? Why are criminal groups able to operate openly in the daytime? And what concrete steps will security agencies take to stop the growing wave of abductions before more lives are disrupted?

Six Kidnappers Arrested in Nasarawa: How Did Nigerian Police and Vigilantes Raid Forest Hideouts to Rescue Abducted Victims Alive—Is This the Turning Point in the State’s Kidnapping Crisis? Can community cooperation finally break the grip of kidnappers in Nasarawa State? In a coordinated security operation, the Nigerian Police arrested six suspected kidnappers and rescued three abducted victims during a joint raid carried out with local vigilante groups in Angara and Fadaman Bauna villages. According to police authorities, the operation was triggered by a distress report filed on January 7, after armed men reportedly invaded Angara village, abducted two women, and later seized one man, abandoning an infant at the scene. Acting swiftly on the complaint, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, ordered an immediate manhunt for those responsible. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed that officers from the Assakio Division in Lafia East Development Area, working alongside community vigilantes, tracked the suspects to forest hideouts in Angara and Fadaman Bauna. The joint raid led to the arrest of six suspects and the successful rescue of the victims alive. Nansel disclosed that the rescued victims—two females and one male—were found unharmed, promptly given medical attention, and safely reunited with their families. He added that the suspects have confessed to their alleged crimes and have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further interrogation and prosecution. Police authorities assured residents that the command remains committed to a sustained crackdown on criminal activities across the state. The commissioner emphasized that security forces will continue targeting kidnapping networks and forest hideouts to protect communities and restore confidence in public safety. This development comes amid growing concerns over rising kidnappings in parts of central Nigeria, where rural communities have increasingly become targets for criminal gangs. Observers say the success of this operation highlights the importance of community intelligence, vigilante collaboration, and rapid police response in confronting organized crime. But questions remain: Will this arrest disrupt wider kidnapping networks in Nasarawa? Can joint operations between police and local groups be sustained? And will the prosecution of the suspects send a strong enough message to deter future abductions? As residents welcome the rescue, many are watching closely to see whether this operation marks a lasting shift in the fight against kidnapping in the state.

Why Is Oyo Police Cracking Down on Unmarked Vehicles, Fake Number Plates and Face-Concealing Motorcyclists—Is This the End of Crime Through Disguise in the State? Is Oyo State entering a new phase of security enforcement—and will it finally curb crimes committed through disguise and anonymity? The Oyo State Police Command has announced a statewide operation targeting unmarked vehicles, fake or defaced number plates, and motorcyclists who conceal their faces, as part of what it describes as a proactive and intelligence-led policing strategy. Approved by the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, the operation is scheduled to commence on Monday and will focus on vehicles without valid registration numbers, those using covered, blinded, defaced, fake, dealer’s, or unauthorized plates, as well as motorcyclists who wear hoods or masks to obscure their identities while riding. According to the police, offenders will face arrest, vehicle impoundment, and prosecution following investigations. The Command explained that the crackdown is driven by intelligence reports showing that criminals increasingly exploit unmarked vehicles and concealed identities to evade detection, carry out robberies, kidnappings, and other violent crimes, and escape law enforcement scrutiny. The announcement follows earlier engagements by CP Haruna with commercial motorcyclists across the state, where he issued warnings that any motorcycle linked to criminal activity would attract severe penalties. He also urged riders and residents to provide timely intelligence, assuring them of confidentiality and swift police response. Beyond this specific enforcement drive, the police reaffirmed that routine stop-and-search operations, checkpoints, and intelligence-based patrols remain central to crime prevention in Oyo State. Residents were advised to stay vigilant, comply with vehicle and traffic regulations, and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station. As security challenges continue to evolve, the operation raises key questions: Will the removal of fake plates and masked riding close a major loophole criminals use to operate? Can stricter enforcement improve public safety without disrupting legitimate transport and commercial activity? For many residents, the coming weeks will determine whether this strategy marks a turning point in the fight against crime—or merely another short-term security campaign.

How Were an Elderly Woman and Her Granddaughter Freed by Bandits in Southern Kaduna After a Ransom Payment? In a dramatic turn of events in Southern Kaduna, an elderly woman, Mrs. Averik Arak, and her granddaughter were released by bandits after their family paid an undisclosed ransom. The victims had been abducted earlier this week in Arak village, Sanga Local Government Area, following a violent attack in which Mrs. Arak’s son, Kefas Habila Averik, and another resident were killed. The release occurred on Wednesday night, after negotiations between the family and the abductors. The victims were immediately taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical examinations, and they are reportedly in stable condition. A family member, Racheal Averik, confirmed the ordeal on social media, expressing deep gratitude for the prayers and support received during the challenging period. She revealed that the abduction occurred just 48 hours after her mother’s son was killed, and that the elderly woman, already in mourning, was particularly vulnerable when the bandits struck. This incident highlights the growing security challenges in Southern Kaduna, where banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks have become increasingly frequent. Local authorities and security agencies continue to face pressure to protect vulnerable communities and prevent similar tragedies. The Kaduna kidnapping saga underscores the human cost of insecurity, showing how families are forced to pay ransoms while mourning lost loved ones, and raises urgent questions about government measures to tackle banditry and protect civilians in Nigeria’s most affected regions.

Is Tinubu Failing Yoruba Land? Pan-Yoruba Group Slams President Over Insecurity, Kidnapped Monarchs and ‘Silence From Power Is Nigeria’s security crisis finally reaching a breaking point in Yoruba land—and is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu truly doing enough to stop it? These are the urgent questions being raised after a Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, publicly condemned the President over what it described as his “deafening silence” in the face of worsening insecurity across the South-West. The group’s outcry followed the shocking abduction of a Kwara State monarch, Oba S. Y. Olaonipekun, and his son, Olaolu, who were reportedly kidnapped by suspected terrorists in the Ile-Ire district. For many observers, the incident marks a dangerous escalation in Nigeria’s security crisis: when even traditional rulers—symbols of authority, culture, and community stability—are no longer safe, what hope remains for ordinary citizens? In a strongly worded statement signed by its Convener, Olusola Badero, and released through Home Director Princess Balogun, the group accused President Tinubu of abandoning his constitutional duty as the nation’s chief security officer. According to the group, violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings have spread across Yoruba communities with little visible federal response. They argued that while statements are often issued, concrete action has been painfully absent. The union alleged that forests and rural communities in parts of Kwara and the wider South-West have become safe havens for armed groups posing as herdsmen, whom they directly described as terrorists. It lamented what it called the humiliation of Yoruba traditional institutions, stressing that the kidnapping of monarchs was once unimaginable in the region’s history. Quoting a Yoruba proverb—“Oríadé kì í sùn tán” (Royalty does not sleep outside)—the group said the abduction of kings represents not only a security failure but also a deep cultural wound. Beyond insecurity, the group launched a broader political critique of President Tinubu’s leadership. They accused him of prioritising personal interests, political allies, and future elections over the immediate safety and welfare of citizens. They further criticised what they described as his frequent foreign trips, alleging that he enjoys public funds abroad while Nigerians face poverty, fear, collapsing healthcare, and deteriorating schools at home. For the group, this contrast symbolises a widening gap between those in power and the people they govern. The statement also targeted Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, accusing the state government of failing to protect residents. The group demanded the immediate release of the abducted monarch and his son, as well as other kidnapped citizens, including workers from the Kwara State Ministry of Works. To underline what it sees as a pattern of lawlessness, the union recalled earlier incidents, including the killing of Segun Aremu, a retired army general and monarch (the Olúkòrò of Koro), and the abduction of Kamilu Salami, the Oníbàrà of Bayagan Ile, who reportedly spent weeks in captivity before regaining freedom. These cases, the group argued, show that the crisis is not isolated but systemic. Perhaps most striking is the group’s warning that continued political inaction could lead to long-term devastation: deserted villages, abandoned farmlands, and forests fully occupied by armed groups. They questioned how elections can even matter if citizens are no longer safe enough to live in their communities. “Who will be alive to vote,” they asked, “if our villages are deserted and our forests controlled by terrorists?” The union went further, calling on Yoruba people at home and in the diaspora to take collective responsibility for protecting their region, suggesting that reliance on political leaders who have “clearly failed” could invite even greater catastrophe. As this controversy unfolds, Nigerians are left with uncomfortable but necessary questions: Has the federal government lost control of internal security? Is President Tinubu doing enough to protect his own region? And what happens when traditional institutions—once seen as untouchable—become targets of violence? On Fintter, this story is more than breaking news; it is a national conversation about leadership, accountability, and survival. Are these criticisms justified, or are they politically motivated? Can Nigeria still reverse its security decline, or has the crisis reached a point of no return? The answers may shape not just the future of Yoruba land, but the fate of the entire nation. 💬 What do you think? Is Tinubu truly failing on security—or is the crisis beyond any single leader? Share your thoughts and join the debate on Fintter.

Ondo Nursing Mother and Infant Abducted: Police Launch Manhunt for Suspected Kidnappers” A nursing mother and her infant were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ondo State, prompting a full-scale manhunt by police authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday night along the Supare/Ajegunle route in Akoko South West Local Government Area, according to the Ondo State Police Command. SaharaReporters gathered that the woman, who is married to a well-known local furniture maker, was taken from her residence alongside her young child under circumstances that have left the community shocked and fearful. The Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the abduction and stated that intensive operations are underway to locate and safely rescue the victims. Security operatives have been strategically deployed throughout the area, ensuring continuous monitoring and rapid response to any leads. As of now, no ransom demands have been officially confirmed. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities promising to keep the public informed and urging residents to report any suspicious activity. The police emphasized their commitment to protecting lives and property across Ondo State. This case underscores the persistent threat of kidnappings in parts of Nigeria and highlights the proactive measures by law enforcement to respond swiftly to abduction incidents.

Edo Family Refutes Police Rescue Claim, Confirms Payment of Ransom for Abducted Twin Teenagers After Father’s Murder The family of twin teenagers abducted in Edo State after the killing of their father, Andrew Ilabeshi, has disputed police claims that the victims were rescued unharmed. According to the family, the twins, Emmanuel and Emmanuella, both 16, were only released after a ransom was paid to their kidnappers. Gunmen reportedly attacked the Ilabeshi family on December 11 at Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, Etsako East LGA, leaving the father dead and abducting the twins. The Edo State Police Command previously stated that the twins were rescued by security operatives, but the family insists the release was negotiated through ransom payments. The victims were reportedly traumatized by their ordeal, and the family criticized local security efforts, urging both state and federal governments to intensify measures against kidnappings. Community vigilance, according to the family, has proven insufficient in addressing the rise in violent abductions in the area.

Terrorists Kill Two in Southern Kaduna, Abduct 32 Including Elderly Woman and Children in Fresh Wave of Attacks Across Sanga, Kauru, and Kajuru At least two residents have been killed and 32 others abducted in a renewed wave of terrorist attacks across Southern Kaduna, with victims including an elderly woman, children, and other vulnerable villagers. In Arak village, Sanga Local Government Area, bandits returned barely 48 hours after killing a man and another resident, abducting Mrs. Averik Arak and her granddaughter. Mrs. Arak had been mourning her son—killed in her presence—along with his wife and daughter, and was reportedly ill when the attackers struck again. Simultaneously, in Kajuru LGA, at least 15 villagers, mostly minors, were kidnapped from Unguwan Sarki Maro, while in Kadage village, Kauru LGA, 16 people were abducted and one person killed. A local source said more than 100 residents from seven surrounding villages in Kauru have been taken between December 1, 2025, and January 4, 2026, lamenting what he described as a media blackout on the escalating violence. The latest incidents follow previous deadly attacks in Kachia, where four members of a family were killed during an overnight raid, and residents reported that gunmen arrived in large numbers, injuring others who were rushed to hospital. Despite repeated assaults near major institutions and security formations, no official statement had been issued by the Kaduna State Police at the time of reporting. Southern Kaduna continues to face persistent banditry, killings, and mass kidnappings, prompting renewed calls from residents for stronger security measures by federal and state authorities to protect communities and curb the growing humanitarian crisis.

Terrorists Launch Coordinated Midnight Attacks in Katsina, Kill, Injure, and Kidnap Residents Heavily armed terrorists have attacked multiple communities in Katsina State during a night assault, killing and injuring residents while abducting several others. The attacks targeted Unguwar Alhaji Barau, Gidan Dan Mai-gizo, and Gidan Hazo in Na’alma Ward, Malumfashi Local Government Area. The incident follows a previous attack in Unguwar Daudu, Funtua LGA, where at least 20 people were kidnapped. Despite recent peace agreements, Katsina remains a hotspot of banditry and violent crimes, with local residents often facing kidnappings, killings, and displacement. Security agencies are yet to release official casualty figures or a statement on the incident.

Ambrose Alli University Students Protest Rising Kidnappings in Ekpoma, Demand Urgent Action on Insecurity in Edo State Students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, on Monday staged a peaceful protest over the increasing cases of kidnapping and insecurity in the university town, located in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State. The demonstrators said their action was prompted by growing fear within the AAU community, which they claim has witnessed repeated abductions in recent weeks. According to the protesters, the decision to take to the streets followed the recent abduction of a student identified as Akhabhe Favour, as well as the kidnapping of an unnamed former students’ union leader. Speaking during the protest, Andrew Oziegbe, who led the demonstration, said the aim was to compel security agencies and government authorities to take decisive action to address the worsening security situation. Oziegbe described the response of relevant authorities as inadequate, warning that continued inaction could further endanger students and residents of Ekpoma. He stressed that students were living in fear and could no longer remain silent in the face of persistent insecurity. However, the management of Ambrose Alli University distanced itself from the protest. In a statement issued by the institution’s Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of Information, Protocol and Public Relations, Otunba Mike Ade Aladenika, the university said it neither authorised nor endorsed the demonstration. The school claimed that those involved were not registered students, members of the Students’ Union Government, or affiliated with the university in any capacity. The university further warned that any unauthorised actions carried out in its name would attract appropriate measures, adding that it would take steps to protect its interests and maintain order. The protest highlights growing concerns over security in Ekpoma and renewed calls for urgent intervention by security agencies and government authorities to curb kidnappings in the area.

Afenifere Condemns Attack on Peaceful Women Protesters in Ilorin, Calls for Arrest of Pro-Government Thugs Amid Rising Insecurity Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere has condemned the assault on peaceful women protesters in Ilorin, Kwara State, demanding the arrest of the attackers. The protesters had gathered at the Kwara State Government House to demand action over kidnappings and insecurity in their communities. According to reports, men allegedly linked to the state government attacked the women with canes, despite the presence of security personnel who failed to intervene. Afenifere described the incident as a disturbing reflection of the state’s inability to protect its citizens and warned that continued failure to act could erode public trust and embolden criminals. Community leaders in Kogi State also raised concerns after security operatives used tear gas to disperse residents protesting kidnappings, highlighting a broader trend of insecurity and violent suppression of peaceful protests across the country.

Terrorists Raid Katsina Community, Abduct 20 Residents in Night Attack on Unguwar Daudu Despite Ongoing Peace Deals Terrorists have launched a deadly night raid on Unguwar Daudu community in Dukke Ward of Funtua Local Government Area, Katsina State, abducting no fewer than 20 residents and injuring two others. The attack occurred on Sunday night, January 4, 2026, when heavily armed assailants stormed the rural community, spreading fear and chaos among residents. A Katsina-based security expert, Malam Bakatsine, confirmed the incident, noting that the attack happened despite multiple peace agreements recently brokered between local authorities and armed groups operating in the area. Funtua Local Government is among several parts of Katsina State that have witnessed persistent banditry, including kidnappings, killings, and mass displacement of residents. The incident comes amid a surge of violent attacks across Katsina. SaharaReporters had earlier reported a separate assault on Naino village in Naalma Ward of Malumfashi Local Government Area, where bandits killed two people and injured six others during an early morning attack on January 1, 2026. Security sources said the attackers entered the village from the Musawa axis at about 6:30 a.m., firing sporadically and causing widespread panic. Following the attacks, joint security forces were deployed to affected areas, with blockades established along suspected escape routes and cordon-and-search operations launched to track down the perpetrators. The injured victims from the Malumfashi attack were taken to Malumfashi General Hospital, where two were confirmed dead on arrival, while others are receiving treatment. The renewed violence has heightened concerns over the effectiveness of peace deals and security measures in Katsina State, as communities continue to face repeated attacks despite assurances of improved security.