The Ondo State Police Command has rescued a kidnap victim, Ogunniyi Semiu and arrested 12 suspected criminals involved in crimes such as kidnapping, stealing, armed robbery, and cultism.  The state Police Commissioner, CP Wilfred Afolabi, who confirmed the development at his office in Akure, the state capital on Saturday evening, May 17, 2025 said the suspects were arrested following the intelligence gathering of the command. According to him, the suspects are, Babuga Muhammed, Ibrahim Uma, Paul Osanyinduro, Abubakar Bamoh, Olaoluwa Olootu, Aliu Raymond, Yahaya, Hasminu Jibirimi, Hammed Olabode and Adegoke Olayemi. Babuga Muhammed, who was involved in the abduction of Ogunniyi, was arrested during the operation.  According to the CP, the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N14m for the release of the victim.  In the early hours of today (Saturday) a combined tactical team of operatives from the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters based in Ikare carried out a successful operation that led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and the arrest of one of the suspects involved in the abduction, the police boss stated.  “The operation followed actionable intelligence regarding the movement of suspected kidnappers responsible for the abduction of one Ogunniyi Semiu on May 14, 2025, around Ikare Mine in Akoko North-East Local Government Area “Acting on the intelligence, the joint team strategically laid an ambush in a forest area near Supare Mine, believed to be a rendezvous point for the suspects who had demanded a ransom of N14 million. “During the interception, the suspects engaged the operatives in a fierce gun duel. In the exchange, several of the suspects sustained serious gunshot injuries, while one of themBabuga Muhammed from Iseyin, Oyo State, was apprehended. Crucially, the victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, was rescued alive and unhurt. No ransom was paid. Afolabi stated further that the suspect was receiving treatment for gunshot wounds at the State Specialist Hospital, while efforts were ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects who escaped with injuries. He noted that some of the other suspects had confessed to the commission of the crimes, urging the residents of the state to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies.  “Together, we can and will build a safer Ondo State. “I want to assure the good people of Ondo State that the police command under my leadership will continue to act with professionalism, impartiality, and resolve in protecting lives and property, the CP declaredThe post Police foil N14m ransom payment, rescue kidnap victim and arrest suspects in Ondo appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.

A powerful youth-led political movement is gaining steam ahead of the 2027 elections—and it’s rallying behind Oyo State Governor Engineer Seyi Makinde.

Operating under the banner of Nigeria Youths Awareness Group (NYAG) Makinde 2027, the group has declared its unwavering support for Makinde, calling him “the only leader with the vision, capacity, and track record to rescue Nigeria.”

Speaking to journalists in Kano, NYAG’s National Secretary, Alhaji Lawal Abdullahi, said after months of intense consultations and political strategy sessions, youth organisations across the country had agreed to back Makinde’s presidential ambition.

“We’ve met, we’ve strategized, and we’re united,” Abdullahi declared. “This is bigger than politics. It’s a movement. We’re a moving train — and nothing can stop us.”

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NYAG is launching a nationwide mobilisation blitz, starting in Northern Nigeria. According to Abdullahi, consultations have already been held with key political players and influencers, many of whom have “quietly pledged their support” for the Makinde 2027 project.

“This is not just talk — it’s a wildfire, and it’s spreading fast,” he added.

The group revealed that it has already printed thousands of posters, billboards, and campaign materials that will flood major northern cities in the coming days, including Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Borno, Yobe, and Gombe. Expansion to the South is already in motion.

So why Makinde?

Abdullahi cited the governor’s performance in Oyo State as proof of his readiness to lead Nigeria during economic hardship and political disillusionment.

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“Makinde has delivered real results in Oyo — and he did it with focus, accountability, and a clear vision. That’s the kind of leadership Nigeria needs now more than ever.”

NYAG calls on all Nigerians — regardless of tribe, faith, or political leaning — to unite behind Makinde for a brighter, more progressive future.

“It’s time to move forward. It’s time for Makinde,” Abdullahi said.

 The Nigerian Army has dismissed Lance Corporal, Samuel Emmanuel for alleged involvement in armed robbery. He was dismissed after he was court-martialed at the 16 Brigade Garrison during the week after he was arrested for armed robbery. A memo from the army stated that Emmanuel has been handed over to the Nigerian Police Force for prosecution. Lance Corporal Samuel Emmanuel, serving under the 16 Brigade Garrison, has been officially dismissed from the Nigerian Army following his involvement in a case of armed robbery, the memo reads. “After a thorough investigation and military proceedings, he was found guilty and consequently discharged from the Regiment. “The Nigerian Army maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards indiscipline and criminal behaviour. All personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, professionalism, and integrity without exception. The post Nigerian Army dismisses soldier over armed robbery appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.