Command condemns incident as violent crime, pledges to safeguard children’s rights across North-East state

The Yobe State Police Command has apprehended two suspects in Damaturu over the alleged killing and concealment of a newborn baby girl, following a distress call received by officers on Tuesday afternoon. The incident, which occurred in the state capital, prompted a swift response from operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit at about 4:10 p.m. on June 23, 2026.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, the command described the act as a heinous violation of an infant’s rights and reaffirmed its determination to protect vulnerable persons across Yobe State. Abdulkarim noted that security operatives were deeply concerned about recurring cases involving abandoned newborns in the area, warning that anyone found responsible for such crimes would face full prosecution under Nigerian law.

“This command is committed to ensuring that every child enjoys their inherent right to life, protection, care and dignity,” Abdulkarim said in the statement issued in Damaturu. He cautioned residents against acts endangering children and stressed that perpetrators would be made to face justice without exception.

The incident has heightened concern among local stakeholders about child welfare and security lapses in Yobe State and other parts of Nigeria’s North-East. While police investigations continue, community leaders have urged increased vigilance and support systems for vulnerable mothers and infants.

Police authorities have assured members of the public that the investigation is ongoing and called for timely reporting of suspicious activities. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment regarding broader systemic issues or previous similar cases.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/yobe-police-arrest-two-over-alleged-killing-of-newborn-baby/

Faith-based conferences, volunteer work and social gatherings emerge as new avenues for Christian women seeking partners

Christian women in Lagos and other major cities are increasingly turning to alternative avenues outside traditional church gatherings to meet God-fearing men, with faith-based conferences, volunteer programmes and social events gaining traction as preferred options. The trend, highlighted by recent activities on Sunday, reflects a shift in how young Christians approach relationships amid busy routines and changing social patterns.

Organisers of Christian singles’ retreats and ministry-backed networking nights across Lagos Mainland told reporters that attendance at these events has surged since early June, with many participants citing the desire for genuine connections rooted in shared values. Besides church services, believers now commonly meet potential partners at faith-based concerts, charity outreaches, study groups in cafés and even through mutual friends at weddings and receptions.

The move comes as many young Nigerians balance work demands with spiritual commitments. “Many couples did not actually meet during Sunday service,” said Blessing Adeyemi, a coordinator of a Christian singles mixer held in Ikeja. “We see people form lasting relationships through community service or at Christian music festivals because these settings allow them to show their real selves.” Adeyemi added that intentional small gatherings and prayer meetups hosted by individuals have also grown in popularity within the past year.

Experts say this development is partly driven by the rise of digital platforms and changing perceptions around traditional matchmaking. While online dating remains an option — with several faith-based apps reporting increased registrations — many Christians still prioritise environments where they can interact face-to-face. Relationship adviser Segun Adebayo noted that trusted introductions from friends or colleagues remain effective: “Word-of-mouth referrals help ensure people meet others with similar backgrounds and expectations,” he explained.

With more churches collaborating with non-profits for outreach projects and hosting public events like gospel concerts or book clubs, stakeholders expect the range of meeting points for single Christians to expand further. Organisers plan to continue leveraging both offline and online channels in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt to foster meaningful relationships grounded in faith.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/where-christian-women-can-meet-god-fearing-men-aside-the-church-2026062314181967644

Police deploy rescue teams after attack in Yauri, with recent high-profile kidnappings sparking security concerns across Nigeria

Suspected gunmen abducted the wife and son of Alhaji Yusuf Alhassan, All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman for Yauri Local Government Area, Kebbi State, during an early-morning raid on Thursday. The attackers stormed the family residence in the Low-Cost area of Yauri and escaped with the victims into a nearby forest.

Police spokesperson SP Bashir Usman confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives have been mobilised to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of Alhassan’s family members. As at press time, efforts by Kebbi State Police Command to rescue the victims were ongoing.

This latest abduction adds to a worrying pattern of kidnappings targeting politicians and their relatives across Nigeria. In May, retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, was kidnapped with his wife in Katsina State while travelling for a wedding. Abubakar died in captivity after two weeks, while his wife was rescued following a gunshot injury sustained during operations by security agents.

Just last month in Ibadan, Oyo State, gunmen seized Bayo Adelabu’s sister and her 12-year-old twin sons while she was taking them to school. The family said they were distressed but hopeful for their release as police intensified search efforts. In Delta State, Hon. Okakuro Bright Afure Abeke, Sapele LGA chairman, was abducted at his hotel in April—a vigilante operative was injured during the incident.

In Anambra State, lawmaker Hon. Justice Azuka was kidnapped in December 2024 while distributing Christmas gifts to constituents. Weeks later, his decomposing body was discovered despite reported ransom payments.

These incidents highlight the growing insecurity faced by political figures and their loved ones as Nigeria grapples with widespread banditry and kidnapping. Security agencies continue to assure citizens that efforts are underway to tackle criminal gangs targeting high-profile individuals. Meanwhile, residents in affected communities have called for urgent government intervention to safeguard lives and property.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/politicians-family-kidnappings-nigeria-2026062314064519607