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)
PDP Candidate Wins Rivers South-East By-Election, Secures National Assembly Seat
Victory strengthens PDP’s hold in oil-rich Rivers State as electoral commission announces official results Sunday
Victory strengthens PDP’s hold in oil-rich Rivers State as electoral commission announces official results Sunday
A candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has emerged winner of the by-election for the Rivers South-East Senatorial District, following official announcement of results on Sunday, 21 June 2026. The by-election was conducted across local government areas within the district in Rivers State, South-South Nigeria, after the seat became vacant earlier this year.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concluded collation late Saturday and declared the PDP candidate victorious after compiling votes from polling units across Khana, Gokana, Eleme, Tai, and Oyigbo LGAs. The win further cements PDP’s dominance in Rivers State politics amid ongoing contestations between Nigeria’s major parties.
The by-election attracted significant attention due to its potential to alter the balance of power at the National Assembly and within Rivers State. Political observers say that a strong turnout in traditional PDP strongholds contributed to the party’s success. The seat became vacant following the previous occupant’s resignation, prompting INEC to schedule the mid-term poll in line with national electoral laws.
INEC officials said the exercise was largely peaceful, with voting materials arriving on time and security agencies deployed to maintain order. The commission has yet to release full vote tallies or disclose competing candidates’ figures as at press time. No major incidents of violence or electoral malpractice were reported by officials during voting or collation.
The PDP has welcomed the outcome as a mandate for continuity and pledged to deliver quality representation. APC leaders are yet to issue a formal statement; opposition sources say they will review results before deciding on further action. With this victory, PDP is expected to consolidate its position ahead of subsequent elections in Rivers State.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Honours Aare (Prof) Lai Labode with Special Father’s Day Toast in Lagos
Whisky brand presents engraved Blue Label bottle to Cash Token Africa chairman, highlighting his legacy in fashion and fatherhood
Whisky brand presents engraved Blue Label bottle to Cash Token Africa chairman, highlighting his legacy in fashion and fatherhood
Johnnie Walker Blue Label has recognised Aare (Prof) Lai Labode, founder and chairman of Cash Token Africa, with a specially engraved bottle to mark Father’s Day at an event held in Lagos on Friday. The gesture celebrates Labode’s multifaceted contributions as a business leader, fashion icon, and dedicated father.
Labode, who also serves as chairman of African Fashion Week Nigeria and is the mind behind the Egbaliganza fashion initiative, received the commemorative bottle as a tribute to the enduring values he represents both publicly and privately. The event underscored the importance of honouring not just professional achievements but also the personal sacrifices fathers make within their families.
According to Ifeoma Agu, Group Head of Culture, Influencer & Advocacy for Diageo South, West & Central Africa, Johnnie Walker chose to celebrate Labode because his approach to life aligns with the brand’s philosophy. “At Johnnie Walker, we believe that the finest things in life are never rushed, and in Aare Lai Labode, we found a man whose life proves exactly that,” Agu said in a statement at the event.
Labode’s influence extends beyond business into literature; he is a published author with three volumes under the “Constellation of Thoughts” series. His role as a mentor and his quiet commitment to family were highlighted by organisers as qualities worthy of recognition on Father’s Day. While official opposition or additional reactions were not recorded during the event, attendees acknowledged that such gestures encourage public figures to model positive values.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label is distributed nationwide by Celebr8-Lyfe PVT and is available at premium retail outlets across Nigeria. The company stated it will continue using such platforms to spotlight individuals whose personal journeys inspire progress and ambition among Nigerians.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Obasanjo, El-Rufai, Ibori Lead List as Children Take Up Political Mantle Across Nigeria
Father’s Day highlights rising trend of Nigerian politicians’ children contesting for public office in Ogun, Kaduna, Delta and beyond
Father’s Day highlights rising trend of Nigerian politicians’ children contesting for public office in Ogun, Kaduna, Delta and beyond
Father’s Day celebrations across Nigeria on Friday put the spotlight on a growing number of political families, as at least ten prominent male politicians have seen their children enter the political arena in states like Ogun, Jigawa, Kaduna and Delta. Figures such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai are among those whose children have become lawmakers or contested major elections in recent years.
The phenomenon is evident nationwide. Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo (PDP, Ogun State), served as Senator for Ogun Central from 2007 to 2011. In Jigawa State (North-West), Mustapha Sule Lamido sought the PDP governorship ticket in 2023 following the legacy of his father, ex-Governor Sule Lamido. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai (APC), currently represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Analysts say these trends reflect both the enduring influence of established political figures and the complex dynamics of succession within Nigerian politics. Many observers note that while family ties can provide early exposure and mentorship, successful children still face tough contests and must build independent reputations. For example, Mohammed Abacha entered Kano’s PDP governorship primaries but lost to Sadiq Wali after protracted legal battles, despite his late father General Sani Abacha’s notoriety.
Reactions from stakeholders vary. Some APC chieftains in Lagos argue that dynastic politics can help preserve institutional memory and continuity. However, PDP stalwarts in Delta State caution that public service should not be seen as a birthright. “Let every candidate be judged by competence and track record,” said one PDP official from Delta (name withheld for neutrality). Others point out that such legacies are not unique to one party or region but cut across Nigeria’s political landscape.
With more sons and daughters of top politicians vying for office—such as Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu (daughter of ex-Delta Governor James Ibori), Babajide Obanikoro (son of Musiliu Obanikoro) and Muhammad Abdullahi Umar Ganduje (son of ex-Kano Governor Abdullahi Ganduje)—analysts expect this trend to continue. As Nigeria heads towards future elections, attention will remain on how these emerging leaders balance family heritage with their own vision for governance.
PDP Candidate Wins Rivers South-East By-Election, Secures National Assembly Seat
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Honours Aare (Prof) Lai Labode with Special Father’s Day Toast in Lagos
Obasanjo, El-Rufai, Ibori Lead List as Children Take Up Political Mantle Across Nigeria
Lagos Residents Mark Father’s Day with Budget-Friendly Activities Across City Parks and Homes
Lagos Artistes Release 10-Song Playlist to Celebrate Fathers’ Day Across Nigeria
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