Nigeria News (Standard)
Oyo Police Deny Rescue of Igboho Kidnap Victims Amid Social Media Claims
Command says viral reports of Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and son’s rescue are false, as security efforts continue
Command says viral reports of Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and son’s rescue are false, as security efforts continue
The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating online that Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and her son, abducted at Igbope in Oorelope Local Government Area, have been rescued. The denial came in a statement released on Sunday, 21 June 2026, by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, who described the reports as unfounded and misleading.
According to the Command, a video and related online posts went viral over the weekend alleging that the victims kidnapped on 16 June had regained their freedom. However, police authorities insist that no such rescue has taken place, warning that such misinformation could create confusion while efforts to secure their release are ongoing.
The abduction of Mrs Omowumi and her son has raised anxiety within Oorelope LGA and across Oyo State, with many residents calling for increased security presence and a swift resolution. Kidnapping cases have become a recurring concern in South-West Nigeria, fuelling public pressure on security agencies to demonstrate effective response.
In his statement, DSP Ayanlade said: “The Oyo State Police Command has taken notice of a video and related online content alleging that the victims abducted at Igbope on June 16, 2026, have been rescued. The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the claim contained in the circulated video is false, unfounded, and misleading.” He added that intelligence-led operations were ongoing in collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure safe rescue and apprehension of those responsible for the crime.
Police urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports and rely only on official updates from security agencies. As at Sunday evening, search efforts were still underway while families and local leaders continued to appeal for calm. The Command reaffirmed its commitment to restoring safety in Oorelope LGA and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/oyo-police-debunk-reported-rescue-of-igboho-kidnap-victims/
Nigeria News (Standard)
APC Hails Oyebanji’s Re-Election, Says Victory Reflects Ekiti People’s Confidence
Party leadership describes result as endorsement of Governor Oyebanji’s performance; opposition parties yet to issue formal response
Party leadership describes result as endorsement of Governor Oyebanji’s performance; opposition parties yet to issue formal response
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his re-election in Ekiti State, stating that the outcome of the poll demonstrates the confidence and trust the people have in his leadership. The party made this known in a statement released on Sunday, 21 June 2026.
According to APC officials, Oyebanji’s victory at the polls is a clear indication of the electorate’s satisfaction with his administration’s achievements over the past term. The party leadership commended voters across Ekiti for what it described as peaceful conduct and active participation during the governorship election.
The re-election comes at a time when political observers had raised concerns about voter apathy and heightened competition from opposition parties in the South-West state. However, APC argued that the result is an affirmation of its policies and the Governor’s performance in areas such as infrastructure, education, and social welfare programmes.
While congratulating Oyebanji and all APC supporters in Ekiti, party leaders urged him to continue prioritising good governance and inclusive development. The statement read: “Governor Oyebanji’s re-election shows that our people believe in his vision for Ekiti State.” As at Sunday evening, no official statement had been released by major opposition parties regarding the outcome of the election.
With Oyebanji set for another term, attention is now turning to how his administration will consolidate on existing projects and address key challenges facing residents. Political analysts expect heightened scrutiny on policy implementation as Ekiti remains a critical state in South-West politics.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Gunmen Kill Former OGTV Staff Kitan Oyesiku in Kobape, Ogun State
Police launch investigation as community mourns respected broadcaster; motive behind attack remains unclear
Police launch investigation as community mourns respected broadcaster; motive behind attack remains unclear
Unknown gunmen have killed Mrs Kitan Oyesiku, a former staff member of Ogun State Television (OGTV), at her residence in Kobape area of Abeokuta, Ogun State, in the early hours of Sunday. The assailants reportedly broke into her home and carried out the fatal attack, leaving family members and neighbours shocked by the incident.
The circumstances leading to Oyesiku’s death remain unclear as at press time, and security agencies have yet to establish the motive for the killing. The tragic event has thrown the local community into mourning, with colleagues and residents expressing disbelief over the loss of the well-known broadcaster popularly called ‘Aunty Kitan’.
Oyesiku was widely recognised within media circles in Ogun State due to her years of service at OGTV, a state-owned television station. Her death has highlighted ongoing concerns about security in residential areas across South-West Nigeria, where cases of violent attacks by unidentified gunmen have been reported intermittently.
Ogun State Police Command is expected to commence a full investigation into the incident. As at Monday, no official statement had been released by police authorities regarding possible suspects or arrests connected to the attack. Efforts to reach police spokespersons for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
Residents and stakeholders in Kobape have called on security agencies to intensify patrols and bring those responsible for Oyesiku’s death to justice. Community leaders say they are working with law enforcement to ensure such incidents do not recur while urging anyone with useful information to come forward.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/gunmen-kill-ex-ogtv-staff-kitan-oyesiku-in-ogun/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ikpeba Visits Port Harcourt Stadium as Egbe Backs Upgrade for National Competitions
FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe says improved pitch at Yakubu Gowon Stadium will boost Rivers State’s sports prospects
FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe says improved pitch at Yakubu Gowon Stadium will boost Rivers State’s sports prospects
Former Super Eagles winger Victor Ikpeba paid an unscheduled visit to the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, over the weekend to inspect ongoing redevelopment works at the iconic sports facility. The visit, which took place on Saturday, allowed Ikpeba to see first-hand the progress made in upgrading both the playing surface and general infrastructure.
Project coordinator and FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe, who is also Chief Executive Officer of Monichille Sports Management Company, told journalists after Ikpeba’s tour that the stadium overhaul aims to position Rivers State as a leading destination for national and international football competitions. According to Egbe, quality pitches are essential for player safety, match quality, and attracting global tournaments.
The Yakubu Gowon Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile matches in Nigerian football history but has faced criticism in recent years over its deteriorating pitch and facilities. Stakeholders believe the current upgrades will restore its status as a preferred venue for Super Eagles matches and other elite competitions.
Egbe said: “The ongoing transformation here will not only benefit players but also create opportunities for local talent development and encourage greater youth participation in sports.” He maintained that with proper maintenance, the stadium could meet FIFA standards and boost economic activities through sports tourism.
With works ongoing at the Port Harcourt facility, Rivers State government and sports authorities are expected to intensify efforts to ensure timely completion ahead of upcoming tournaments. Observers say a modernised Yakubu Gowon Stadium could serve as a catalyst for grassroots football growth and enhance Nigeria’s chances of hosting international fixtures in future.
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