Nigeria News (Standard)
Police Kill Two Suspected Kidnappers in Ogun, Rescue Victim Unharmed
Operation by Ogun State Police Command leads to safe recovery of abducted victim; investigation into criminal gang ongoing
Operation by Ogun State Police Command leads to safe recovery of abducted victim; investigation into criminal gang ongoing
Two suspected kidnappers were killed during a police operation in Ogun State on Wednesday, as security operatives successfully rescued an abducted victim from captivity. The incident occurred in a rural community within the state, following a swift response by personnel of the Ogun State Police Command.
According to initial reports, the police acted on intelligence regarding the location of the suspects and their hostage. Upon arrival at the hideout, a gun battle ensued between law enforcement agents and members of the kidnapping gang. In the exchange of fire, two suspects were fatally wounded while others reportedly escaped into nearby bushland. The rescued victim was found unharmed and has since been reunited with family members.
Kidnapping for ransom has remained a significant security challenge across Nigeria, particularly in several South-West states. Residents and community leaders in Ogun State have repeatedly called for enhanced patrols and quicker response to abductions, citing recent incidents targeting both commuters and local business owners. The latest operation underscores ongoing efforts by police authorities to address rising concerns over violent crime and restore public confidence.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident but did not disclose the identities of the deceased suspects or details about the rescued individual, pending further investigation. In a brief statement, police officials reiterated their commitment to pursuing fleeing members of the criminal gang. “We are intensifying efforts to apprehend all those involved in this criminal activity,” a spokesperson said, urging residents to provide timely information that could assist ongoing operations.
The rescue comes amid increased pressure on security agencies to curb kidnapping and banditry in Ogun and neighbouring states. Authorities have promised additional patrols and collaboration with local vigilante groups to prevent further attacks. The command also advised members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements promptly.
Nigeria News (Standard)
SEC Warns Nigerians in Lagos Against Fake Dangote Refinery IPO Offers
Regulator cautions public as reports of fraudulent share sales in Dangote Refinery circulate online
Regulator cautions public as reports of fraudulent share sales in Dangote Refinery circulate online
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a strong warning to investors in Lagos and across Nigeria against falling for alleged Initial Public Offering (IPO) schemes linked to Dangote Refinery. The alert was released on Wednesday following increasing reports of fraudsters claiming to sell shares in the refinery to unsuspecting members of the public.
According to the SEC, these offers, often advertised on social media and via unofficial channels, have not been approved or sanctioned by regulatory authorities. The commission emphasised that Dangote Refinery has not floated any IPO or invited the public to subscribe for its shares as at the time of this advisory.
The development comes amid rising investor interest in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, especially after the official commissioning of the multi-billion naira Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos State. Many Nigerians seeking quick returns have reportedly been targeted by scammers promising high profits from purported refinery share purchases.
In a statement, SEC management urged Nigerians to always verify any investment offer with the commission before committing funds. “Investors are advised to exercise utmost caution and avoid falling victim to fraudulent investment schemes promising shares in companies that are not listed or offering public subscription,” the commission said. The regulatory body further warned that engaging with unregistered operators exposes investors to significant financial risks.
The SEC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s capital market and advised anyone with information on such illegal offers to report directly through its official channels. No official response has been received from Dangote Group regarding these fraudulent claims. Investors are encouraged to remain vigilant as enforcement actions against perpetrators are ongoing.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Oba of Benin Sets July 2 Ritual to Place Curses on Kidnappers Amid Rising Edo Insecurity
Palace action follows emergency meeting with native doctors, as traditional leaders seek to bolster security efforts in Edo State
Palace action follows emergency meeting with native doctors, as traditional leaders seek to bolster security efforts in Edo State
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has scheduled a spiritual exercise for 6:00 a.m. on July 2, 2026, at his palace in Benin City to place traditional curses on kidnappers, armed robbers, cultists and other violent criminals across Edo State. The decision comes after an emergency meeting with native doctors, traditional priests, priestesses and youth representatives in response to escalating insecurity in the state.
According to palace sources, the monarch’s move is a direct response to increased reports of kidnapping, ritual killings and armed robbery along highways and rural communities within Edo State and neighbouring areas. The meeting at the Oba’s Palace strongly condemned these criminal activities and called for urgent intervention from both government and traditional institutions.
Oba Ewuare II has directed that traditionalists from across Edo South Senatorial District will participate fully in the ritual, which is expected to involve prayers, invocations and rites calling on ancestral powers to confront those perpetrating or aiding violent crimes. The monarch stated that such spiritual action is rooted in the authority of the ancestors and is meant to complement ongoing efforts by security agencies.
“This exercise is necessary given the worsening security situation,” Oba Ewuare II said at the palace meeting, adding that both modern law enforcement and traditional mechanisms are needed for deterrence. While police and other agencies continue their operations against criminal gangs, stakeholders have described the planned ritual as a decisive step that reflects the historical role of Benin’s traditional rulers in safeguarding social order.
Preparations are ongoing at the palace ahead of July 2. Traditional leaders from various communities are expected to converge for what palace officials describe as a crucial spiritual intervention targeting kidnappers, bandits and their collaborators. The initiative comes amid calls from state officials for tougher penalties against convicted kidnappers—including public execution—underscoring how insecurity remains a pressing challenge for residents across Edo.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Households Favour Viva Plus Dishwashing Liquid for Tough Grease After Sunday Meals
Product gains popularity among Nigerian families in Lagos as users highlight gentle formula and strong oil-cutting performance
Product gains popularity among Nigerian families in Lagos as users highlight gentle formula and strong oil-cutting performance
Many households in Lagos have increasingly turned to Viva Plus Dishwashing Liquid as their preferred choice for cleaning up after large family meals, especially on Sundays. The trend was observed across major markets in the state over the weekend, with users citing the product’s effectiveness against stubborn oil stains and its gentle impact on hands as key reasons for the shift.
According to several respondents who spoke during a market survey on Saturday, the ability of Viva Plus to tackle residue from popular dishes like jollof rice and stews has made it stand out among other brands. One resident noted that while cooking for extended family gatherings remains a cherished tradition, the task of scrubbing heavily soiled pots and plates had previously been a dreaded chore due to persistent grease and harsh detergents.
Industry observers say the growing preference for mild-yet-effective dishwashing solutions reflects changing consumer expectations in Nigeria’s urban centres. With a focus on both cleanliness and skin safety, many Lagosians now seek products that deliver strong results without causing dryness or irritation. Retailers in Alaba and Mushin markets confirmed a noticeable increase in demand for Viva Plus, describing it as one of the fastest-moving household items this quarter.
While official health agencies have not issued specific endorsements, local vendors praised the product’s performance based on feedback from frequent buyers. “Our customers always come back for more because it does not peel their hands but still washes off oil very well,” said one trader at Oshodi market. Some sellers also attributed its popularity to affordable pricing relative to imported alternatives.
As competition intensifies among FMCG brands in Nigeria’s household cleaning sector, experts predict that consumer loyalty will increasingly favour those products that address both functional needs and everyday comfort. Manufacturers are expected to respond with further innovation targeting the Nigerian market’s unique culinary habits.
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