Anti-Kidnapping Unit recovers firearms and cash after Ogbe Village operation; DSP Babaseyi confirms safe rescue

Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit have killed two suspected kidnappers during a rescue operation in Ogbe Village, Ogun State, on June 11, 2026. The police also secured the release of the abducted victim without harm and recovered a single-barrel gun, an expended cartridge, a mobile phone, and ₦2.2 million believed to be linked to the kidnapping.

According to a statement issued in Abeokuta by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the incident began when the victim was abducted by a criminal gang in Ogbe Village. Upon receiving the report, police immediately activated their anti-kidnapping unit and deployed intelligence and tactical teams to track down the perpetrators and secure the victim’s freedom.

The police said their swift response led them to confront the kidnappers at their hideout. In the ensuing exchange, two suspects were killed while others managed to escape. The operation resulted in the recovery of arms, ammunition, and significant cash proceeds allegedly linked to ransom activities within Ogun State.

This development comes amid rising concerns over kidnapping in South-West Nigeria. Ogun State has seen increased law enforcement efforts following recent high-profile abductions targeting residents and business operators across various local government areas. Security agencies have repeatedly called for community cooperation to support ongoing operations against criminal gangs.

Confirming the operation, DSP Babaseyi stated: “We assure members of the public that our commitment towards combating kidnapping and other violent crimes remains unwavering. The rescued victim is safe and receiving necessary support.” As at press time, police investigations are ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the gang. Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward as part of efforts to further strengthen security in Ogun State.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/two-kidnappers-killed-as-police-rescue-victim-unharmed-in-ogun/

Ex-partner reveals reasons for ending relationship with Yoruba movie star, says decision followed months of unresolved issues

The former partner of popular Yoruba actor Akin Olaiya has spoken publicly for the first time about her decision to end their relationship, citing ongoing disagreements that could not be resolved. The revelation was made on Wednesday in Lagos, bringing fresh attention to the private life of the Nollywood figure.

According to her account, the split came after several months of attempting to address differences that arose during their time together. While she did not provide explicit details about the nature of the disagreements, she emphasised that mutual understanding became increasingly difficult, leading her to conclude that separation was the best option for both parties.

The development is significant given Akin Olaiya’s popularity within the Yoruba film industry and his active presence on social media, where speculation about his personal life has circulated in recent weeks. Many fans have wondered about the status of his relationship following hints and indirect posts from both individuals.

As at press time, Akin Olaiya had not issued an official statement regarding his ex-partner’s comments. Industry observers note that public breakups among high-profile actors often attract wide reactions from both supporters and critics online. Some colleagues have called for privacy and respect for those involved while others expect further clarifications in due course.

It remains unclear whether either party will share additional information on the matter. For now, attention remains focused on how this development may affect future collaborations or public appearances involving the actor.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/890289-actor-akin-olaiyas-ex-breaks-silence-speaks-on-why-she-quit.html

Partnership aims to expand credit guarantees and financial literacy for small businesses as government targets job creation

The National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday at the NCGC headquarters in Abuja, sealing a new partnership designed to improve access to finance for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

The agreement outlines plans for joint programmes in financial literacy, credit guarantee support, capacity building, and other initiatives focused on strengthening small business growth. Key officials present at the ceremony included Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Lydia Jafiya; NCGC Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Bonaventure Okhaimo; ED Strategy and Operations, Tinuola Aigwedo; and ED Risk Management, Prof. Ezekiel Oseni.

MSMEs account for a significant portion of Nigeria’s economic activity and job creation. However, many face serious obstacles in accessing affordable credit due to high risk perceptions among lenders. The NCGC was established by government to provide credit guarantees that reduce these risks and encourage more lending from banks and other financial institutions.

Speaking at the event, Okhaimo said the partnership with SMEDAN would create a stronger framework for expanding finance options available to MSMEs nationwide. According to him: “Small businesses are central to Nigeria’s economic development agenda. This collaboration will help us deliver more targeted support so they can access finance, grow their operations and employ more people.”

Minister Uzoka-Anite described the agreement as an important milestone in government’s efforts to stimulate inclusive economic growth. She noted that enhanced cooperation between key agencies like NCGC and SMEDAN is expected to unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurs while also supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on job creation.

With this MoU now in place, both agencies are set to roll out joint initiatives targeting MSMEs in every geopolitical zone. Officials say further details on implementation timelines will be released in coming weeks.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/ncgc-smedan-sign-agreement-on-msme-financing-support/