Author: CKN

 

Security agents on Thursday night arrested Bello Bodejo, an aspirant for the Taraba Central Senatorial seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital.

Bodejo, who is the president of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, had earlier arrived in Jalingo aboard a private jet through the Danbaba Suntai Airport at about 1:20pm.

He was received by thousands of supporters drawn from the five local government areas that make up the Taraba Central senatorial zone.

Speaking in a telephone interview, Bodejo’s personal aide, Umar, said the APC aspirant was arrested after visiting some security agencies’ offices alongside close political associates.

According to him, the arrest occurred at one of the security offices shortly after Bodejo addressed supporters at the APC state secretariat in Jalingo.

Umar said the associates who accompanied him were asked to leave immediately, while Bodejo was detained.

“At the moment, we do not know where he has been taken to,” he said.

“The same security personnel that escorted and protected him from Abuja to Jalingo were the ones who later arrested him.

“We are yet to be informed of the reason for his arrest, and our major concern now is that we do not know where he is being detained,” Umar added.

Before his arrest, Bodejo had told journalists at the APC secretariat that he purchased the senatorial nomination form to contest the election and would not to step down for any aspirant.

He insisted that he remained committed to the race and would not bow to pressure to withdraw his ambition.

“I am in this race to win, and nobody is going to force me to step down,” he declared.

The APC aspirant also disclosed that the consensus committee reportedly set up by Governor Agbu Kefas to engage aspirants across the three senatorial zones of the state had not contacted him.

“The consensus committee set up by the governor has not contacted me, and let me make it clear that I will not step down for anybody, no matter the pressure,” Bodejo said.

This is not the first time that he would be arrested.

In 2024, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested him over alleged creation of a vigilante group in Nasarawa State.

Bodejo was arrested at the Miyetti Allah Katal Houre’s Head Office at Tundun Maliya Cattle Market, Kilometre 22, Abuja-Keffi Expressway, Tundun-Wada, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The DSS operatives alongside some soldiers of the Nigerian Army, were said to have stormed the Miyetti Allah’s Head Office at about 3:40 pm, and they drove off after arresting Bodejo at the gate.

It is unclear if this latest arrest is political or has anything to do with security.

 

The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the death of a police inspector, Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as “Buratai,” who lost his life to a thunder strike while on duty in Maiduguri, the state capital.

The public relations officer of the command, ASP Nahum Daso, in a tribute on Friday, said the officer was struck on Wednesday alongside his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu, who survived the incident.

According to him, both officers had attempted to seek shelter before the rain started but were caught by lightning before reaching their destination.

The statement read, “Rain often comes with its own blessings, but this one arrived with a heartbreaking streak of tragedy.

“It was on a quiet Wednesday, 7th May, 2026, at about 2:19 p.m., when Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, popularly known as ‘Buratai,’ a police officer widely respected for his dedication, commitment, and passion for duty, was carrying out his routine responsibility of coordinating vehicle parking opposite the Borno State Police Command headquarters alongside his senior colleague, ASP Wazani Adamu.

“As strong winds began to gather, both officers reportedly attempted to seek shelter before the rain started. But in a sudden and devastating moment, a loud thunderclap echoed through the atmosphere, followed instantly by a powerful lightning strike that hit both officers while they were still on duty,” he said.

Daso added, “While ASP Wazani Adamu survived in what may be described as a miracle, unfortunately, Inspector Abdulkadir Garba, who was directly impacted, sadly lost his life with partial burns on his body.”

He described Inspector Garba as a man who stood daily under the scorching sun and uncertain weather to maintain order and serve humanity.

“He lost his life, not to violence or conflict, but to the force of the storm.

“Inspector Abdulkadir Garba was more than a police officer to many; he was a familiar face, a hardworking officer, and a symbol of dedication to service,” he said.

The police spokesperson further stated that the officer’s sudden passing had left shock, grief and painful memories in the hearts of colleagues and members of the public who knew him.

“Sometimes, life reminds us how fragile and unpredictable it can be. One moment, duty calls. The next moment, eternity answers,” he said.

 The Nollywood Reporter has expressed concern over what appears to be the possible withdrawal of its media accreditation and invitation to cover the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), following the publication of a critical editorial feature examining unresolved issues surrounding the awards over the last eleven years.

The story, titled “Eleven Years of Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA): What the AMVCA Still Hasn’t Solved,” published by The Nollywood Reporter, explored recurring concerns within the Nigerian film industry regarding transparency, industry representation, category definitions, and broader conversations about the evolution of the awards platform.

According to internal communications available to the publication, The Nollywood Reporter had previously received indications that it would participate in official media coverage activities for the forthcoming AMVCA ceremony. However, subsequent developments have reportedly suggested that the publication may no longer be included among accredited media representatives.

While no official explanation has been communicated by the organizers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, the timing of the apparent exclusion has raised concerns about whether the publication’s recent editorial stance may have influenced the decision.

The Nollywood Reporter maintains that the article in question was published in good faith as part of its commitment to constructive industry journalism, critical engagement, and the advancement of conversations aimed at strengthening the Nigerian film and television ecosystem.

“As a publication dedicated to the documentation and development of Nollywood, we believe thoughtful critique and industry accountability are essential to growth,” the publication stated. “Media independence and open dialogue should remain central to the continued progress of Africa’s creative industries.”

The publication reiterated its respect for the achievements of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and its role in elevating African storytelling globally, while also emphasizing the importance of accommodating diverse perspectives within the entertainment industry.

The Nollywood Reporter noted that it remains open to clarification or engagement from AMVCA organizers on this matter and future access to the annual event.

For media inquiries, interviews, or further comments, contact:

‘Jamin Ohwovoriole, Ph.D.

Publisher, The Nollywood Reporter

Email: ohwovoriole@thenollywoodreporter.com 

Phone/WhatsApp: +14077855740

For the second time in less than two weeks, armed men have reportedly attacked hostels occupied by students of the College of Engineering, Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, at its Ibogun campus in Ogun State.

The latest incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Friday when about seven armed hoodlums invaded the student hostels, shooting sporadically before robbing occupants of their valuables, including mobile phones and a vehicle.

No fewer than 15 students were said to have been affected by the attack, which reportedly lasted for about two hours between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.

The attackers were said to have escaped with a black Lexus ES 350 belonging to one of the students.

President of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students Association at the institution, Oluwafemi Aderupatan, confirmed the incident on Friday.

He expressed concern over repeated attacks on students, blaming the situation on inadequate security presence around the campus community.

“The armed robbers, about seven of them, attacked students in their hostels in the early hours of Friday,” he said.

“They were shooting and threatening to kill the students. They robbed about 15 students of their phones and also went away with a black Lexus ES 350 belonging to one of the students.

“We actually called for police intervention and they came around after the robbers had left, but the deed had already been done.”

Aderupatan stated that the attacks persisted because security measures earlier promised by authorities had yet to be implemented.

“We are equally not happy that the police post and robust security architecture that the police, the school management and community leaders promised to put in place about two weeks ago when we had a similar armed robbery incident have not become a reality,” he added.

According to him, the criminals were taking advantage of the weak security arrangement in the area, stressing that a stronger security presence such as a functional police post or military formation would deter future attacks.

He appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to intervene, saying students could no longer continue to live in fear.

Reacting to the incident, spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, confirmed that investigations had commenced.

“I can however confirm that the matter is under investigation and the police are already acting on the information available,” she said.

“The Ogun State Police Command takes every security concern within the Ibogun campus environment seriously, and efforts are ongoing to ascertain the facts surrounding the report and take necessary action where required.”

About two weeks earlier, suspected gunmen reportedly invaded student hostels in the same area, assaulting some students and making away with phones, a vehicle and other valuables.

Again gunmen attack OOU students, cart away car, phones

The winner of the 2023 edition of Big Brother Naija All Stars, Ilebaye Odiniya, sparked concern among fans after appearing in an emotional live video in the early hours of Saturday, showing her being assaulted by some men.

In the video circulating on social media, the reality TV star was seen crying and pleading for help while displaying visible swelling on her face.

Ilebaye repeatedly called on people to come to her aid as the disturbing incident unfolded during the livestream.

“Come and open the door, I want to be going,” she was heard saying in part, while at other moments she screamed, “Please come and help me.”

Details surrounding the alleged assault remain unclear as of the time of filing this report, and it has yet to be confirmed whether the matter was officially reported to law enforcement authorities.

The video has since generated widespread reactions online, with fans and supporters expressing concern over her safety and calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

Neither Ilebaye nor her management team has released an official statement providing further details about what transpired.

Former winner of Big Brother Naija reality show, Ilebaye, has called on the general public for help over domestic violence and physical assault.

Ilebaye, who was seen with a swollen face, cried for help on Friday midnight on her Instagram Livestream.

A now trending video of the Livestream captured the reality star screaming and crying for help as man believed to be his father was seen brutally beating and physically assaulting her in the background.

Speaking amid the incident, she was heard saying “Nigerians help me, I need to go. I need to leave this house, I’m being locked up. I’m tired of assault, please come and help me.”

Reacting to the scary incident, BBNaija’s Tacha, in a video on her Instagram story, called on anyone in Abuja to help her lead the police to Ilebaye’s house to rescue her.

“I really just want to know who is in Abuja right now, that can take the police to Ilebaye’s house. Ilebaye’s face has been ruined. I don’t even know who did it but from the video I have seen they are really brutal”, she said.

Watch the video

Ex-BBNaija winner, Ilebaye cries for urgent help over alleged domestic violence

 

Troops of Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with other security agencies while on intelligence led patrol mission to Imezi owa community, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State on 6 May 2026, foiled an attack by suspected terrorists of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN). The patrol was a follow-up to the trailing of terrorist collaborators in the community.

While troops were advancing on foot to the community, they were attacked from a building, resulting in injuries to three personnel. Despite the attack, troops maintained operational dominance, foiled the attack and secured the general area, while the injured personnel were promptly evacuated. The wounded personnel are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility.

During the exchange of fire, Improvised Explosive Devices stored by the terrorists in the building used as their hideout; detonated, and triggered a fire outbreak that destroyed the hideout. Subsequent searches around the general area uncovered more IEDs, improvised hand grenades and shrine used for ritual activities. The shrine was thoroughly combed and destroyed. This is to prevent continued usage for criminal activities and to safeguard the community members.

One collaborator was apprehended during the exploitation around the general area. The arrested suspect and recovered items have been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation.

The general public is hereby reassured that ongoing operations are conducted with utmost professionalism and a firm commitment to protecting lives and property. The law abiding citizens of Imezi Owa community and its environs are encouraged to remain calm, desist from harbouring criminal elements and cooperate with security agencies.

Headquarters Joint Task Force South East operation UDO KA hereby warn members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN and their sympathisers to desist from illegal activities or face the full consequences of their actions as usual. Security forces remain resolute in their determination to build the peace in the region and will continue to dismantle criminal networks and deny terrorists any freedom of action. 

 

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has secured the conviction of a traffic offender involved in the abduction and assault of an FRSC operative during a routine patrol operation along the Kubwa Expressway in Abuja.

The incident occurred on 30 April 2026 at about 0900 hours when personnel of RS 7.19 Dutse Alhaji Unit Command, while on Special Patrol operations at Gegu Filling Station, flagged down a Toyota Hilux vehicle with registration number YAB 931 AE for traffic enforcement. 

Rather than complying peacefully with lawful directives, the driver reportedly engaged in violent conduct which resulted in the assault and unlawful abduction of a Marshal in the course of carrying out his official duties.

Through the swift intervention of the patrol team and Police personnel attached to the operation, the situation was brought under control and the suspect was immediately taken to the FCDA Police Station, Kubwa, for investigation, while the offending vehicle was impounded

Following diligent prosecution, the offender was arraigned before a competent court and subsequently convicted. The court ordered the offender to pay a fine of Seventy-Two Thousand Naira (₦72,000) or serve a three-month term of imprisonment. In addition, the court awarded Fifty Thousand Naira (₦50,000) compensation to the assaulted FRSC personnel.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, commended the professionalism, courage, and restraint displayed by the patrol team despite the provocation, stressing that attacks on traffic enforcement personnel constitute a direct assault on public safety and the rule of law.

He reiterated that the Corps remains committed to enforcing traffic regulations with firmness, civility, and respect for human rights, while warning motorists against obstruction, assault, intimidation, or any form of violence against FRSC personnel and other law enforcement officers on lawful duty.

The Corps Marshal further urged members of the public to cooperate with enforcement agencies at all times, emphasizing that lawful compliance with traffic regulations remains essential to the collective goal of safer roads and protection of lives across the country.

FRSC assures Nigerians that it will continue to work closely with relevant security agencies and the judiciary to ensure that individuals who violate traffic laws or attack public officers are brought to justice accordingly.

 

Over 100 people have been affected by a norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise on a voyage that started in late April, a CDC report says.

102 of 3,116 passengers (3.3%) and 13 of 1,131 crew members (1.2%) were reported ill, with symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting. The outbreak was reported to the CDC on May 7.

Princess Cruises says a limited number of individuals reported mild gastrointestinal illness.

“We quickly disinfected every area of the ship and added extra sanitizing throughout the voyage. Upon arrival to Port Canaveral on May 11, Caribbean Princess will undergo comprehensive cleaning and disinfection before departing for her next voyage.”