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

Credit Direct introduces flexible payment option, easing burden on households amid rising costs of home upgrades

Credit Direct, a CBN-licensed lender based in Lagos, has introduced a buy-now-pay-later platform that allows Nigerian households to furnish their kitchens without making full upfront payments. The new scheme, which became available nationwide on Monday, targets families seeking to upgrade kitchen appliances and utensils despite prevailing economic challenges.

Traditionally, many Nigerian families prioritise the sitting room and bedrooms for upgrades, often leaving kitchens reliant on outdated or worn appliances due to the high lump-sum costs of replacements. With inflation remaining high and disposable income under pressure, the introduction of flexible payment plans is expected to help more households access modern kitchen amenities.

The initiative by Credit Direct offers customers the option to spread payments over several months rather than paying the entire cost at once. According to company representatives, this approach aims to make essential home improvements more accessible while supporting financial planning for low- and middle-income earners. “We recognise the importance of a functional kitchen in every home and want to remove financial barriers for families,” a spokesperson for Credit Direct stated in a press release.

Industry analysts say the move could boost demand for household goods and stimulate local manufacturing. However, some consumer advocates urge households to fully understand repayment terms before committing to credit purchases. As at June 2026, rising interest rates and fluctuating naira value have made affordability a concern for many Nigerian consumers.

With the launch of this buy-now-pay-later platform, Credit Direct is positioning itself as a leading provider of consumer finance solutions in Nigeria’s fintech sector. The company said it will monitor adoption closely and may expand similar offerings to other household categories if demand remains strong.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigerians-can-now-furnish-their-kitchens-without-paying-everything-upfront/

Move signals renewed push for decentralised policing; lawmakers to debate framework amid security challenges across states

President Bola Tinubu has transmitted a framework for the establishment of state police to the Senate in Abuja, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing debate over decentralised policing. The transmission, which took place on Tuesday, comes as insecurity and calls for localised law enforcement continue to dominate national discourse.

Details of how the framework was conveyed remain limited, but Senate leadership confirmed receipt and is expected to initiate deliberations in the coming days. The proposal follows sustained advocacy from state governments, civil society groups, and security experts who argue that state police could enhance response to local security threats and ease pressure on federal agencies.

Calls for state police have intensified in recent years, especially as armed attacks, banditry, and communal violence persist in various geopolitical zones. Proponents say a decentralised system would empower governors and local authorities to address unique security challenges within their domains. However, opponents caution that such powers could be abused by state executives and may raise concerns over political interference or funding constraints.

The presidency has not released the full text of the proposed framework, but sources indicate it outlines guidelines on recruitment, oversight mechanisms, funding structures, and coordination with federal law enforcement. Lawmakers from both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties are expected to scrutinise these details during plenary debates.

As at press time, official statements from the presidency or major opposition parties had not been issued regarding the content of Tinubu’s proposal. Analysts anticipate robust discussions as senators weigh implications for Nigeria’s federal structure and long-term security strategy.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/890009-tinubu-transmits-state-police-framework-to-senate.html