Nigeria News (Standard)
Police Rescue Five Kidnap Victims After Armed Men Invade Owo, Ondo State
Swift intervention by security operatives thwarts abduction attempts in South-West community; victims include local pastor and family
Swift intervention by security operatives thwarts abduction attempts in South-West community; victims include local pastor and family
Five persons have been rescued by security operatives following coordinated kidnap attempts in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, at the weekend. The incidents, which occurred on Saturday evening and late night, involved armed men targeting the home of a local pastor and a family of four in different parts of the ancient town.
According to eyewitnesses, six gunmen invaded Pastor Taiwo’s residence at Ojana axis around 7:00pm in an attempt to abduct him. Pastor Taiwo, who also serves as chairman of the community, was saved after his family raised alarm and officers from B Division, Owo responded promptly. Security agents engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing the suspects to abandon their victim and escape into nearby bushland.
In a separate incident at about 11:30pm the same day, another group of suspected kidnappers stormed Gbegun Community along Alhaja Camp, off Housing Estate in Owo. The armed men entered the home of Daniel Ologun, aged 39, and shot him in his left leg before attempting to whisk away his family members. The police intervened swiftly once again, leading to the rescue of Mr Ologun’s relatives.
These incidents have sparked anxiety among residents in Owo and across Ondo State’s South-West region due to rising cases of armed attacks targeting both individuals and families. Security agencies have intensified patrols within the area as at Sunday evening while investigations continue into the identities and motives of those behind these coordinated kidnap attempts.
The Ondo State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the arrests or possible casualties during the exchange with the suspects. However, community leaders commended the prompt response from law enforcement officers. As at press time, authorities advised residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti PDP Candidate Oluyede Rejects Governorship Poll Result, Vows Legal Challenge
Oluyede says he will pursue all lawful and democratic avenues to contest outcome of Ekiti State governorship election
Oluyede says he will pursue all lawful and democratic avenues to contest outcome of Ekiti State governorship election
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, Olumide Oluyede, has rejected the official result announced by the electoral authorities on Monday, vowing to challenge the outcome using every legal and democratic means. The declaration followed the conclusion of polling across local government areas in the South-West state.
Oluyede’s rejection came shortly after results were made public by electoral officials, with victory handed to a rival candidate. In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti, the PDP candidate described the process as flawed and called on his supporters to remain calm while the party pursues redress through appropriate channels.
The development is significant for Ekiti State politics, as disputes over electoral outcomes have been common in past cycles. Observers say the PDP’s decision to contest the result signals likely protracted litigation and could delay final resolution of leadership for the state.
Oluyede stated that he would seek justice through Nigeria’s established legal system. He emphasised his commitment to democratic norms, saying: “We will use all lawful and democratic means to reclaim our mandate.” The candidate urged his supporters not to take laws into their hands while legal proceedings are ongoing.
It remains unclear when legal filings will commence or what specific grounds Oluyede’s team will cite. The electoral commission and security agencies have not yet responded publicly to his statement. Political analysts expect heightened political activity as Ekiti awaits possible tribunal hearings or court interventions in coming weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Messi Sets Two World Cup Records in Single Match at Qatar 2026
Argentina captain achieves new milestones as FIFA confirms historic feat during group stage encounter
Argentina captain achieves new milestones as FIFA confirms historic feat during group stage encounter
Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentina national team, has broken two separate World Cup records in one match at the ongoing tournament in Qatar. The achievement took place during a group stage fixture on Monday, 22 June 2026, as confirmed by FIFA.
During the encounter, Messi surpassed previous benchmarks set by football legends, becoming the player with the most appearances in World Cup history and also setting a new mark for goals scored in the competition by an Argentine. The Argentine forward’s performance was instrumental as his side secured a crucial victory that boosted their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds.
The feat is significant for Nigerian football followers and global fans alike, as Messi’s consistency and longevity continue to set a standard in international football. His record-breaking appearance has now placed him ahead of former German international Lothar Matthäus, while his goal tally surpasses that of previous Argentine record-holder Gabriel Batistuta.
FIFA officially acknowledged Messi’s accomplishment shortly after the final whistle, describing it as “a testament to his enduring quality and leadership on the world stage.” Many sports analysts have noted that such achievements not only cement Messi’s legacy but also inspire younger players worldwide.
With this development, attention will turn to Argentina’s next fixture as supporters wonder if Messi will extend his record further. The ongoing World Cup continues to provide memorable moments for fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Nigeria News (Standard)
14-Year-Old Boy Shot Dead in Osun, Father Alleges Political Thugs Responsible
Incident sparks outrage in Osun community as grieving family calls for police investigation into suspected politically-motivated violence
Incident sparks outrage in Osun community as grieving family calls for police investigation into suspected politically-motivated violence
A 14-year-old boy has been killed by gunfire in Osun State, with the victim’s father blaming the incident on suspected political thugs. The tragic event occurred on Monday, June 22, in an unnamed community within the state, according to initial reports from local sources.
Details of how the shooting unfolded remain unclear. However, the bereaved father claims his son was targeted and fatally shot by individuals he described as political thugs. No official confirmation has yet been provided by the Osun State Police Command regarding arrests or ongoing investigations.
The killing has heightened concerns about politically-linked violence in parts of Osun State, especially given rising tensions reported around local government areas in previous months. Community members have expressed fear that such incidents could escalate if not addressed swiftly by security agencies.
As at press time, no statement had been issued by either the Osun State Government or political parties named in the allegation. Police authorities have also not commented publicly on the matter. The victim’s family is demanding a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Residents and rights groups are urging security operatives to prioritise the case and restore confidence among locals ahead of upcoming political activities in the state.
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