Residents of Fowowawo, Ajerogun and Magbon-Etido communities in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State have reportedly fled their homes following a failed kidnap attempt that resulted in the deaths of at least six people.

The incident, which occurred on Monday at a dredging site in the area, has left the communities gripped by fear, with many residents abandoning their homes over concerns of possible fresh attacks.

A visit to the affected communities on Wednesday showed that several houses and shops were locked, while commercial and social activities had significantly declined.

The Ogun State Police Command had earlier confirmed that suspected kidnappers invaded the dredging site in an attempt to abduct a Chinese national. The operation, however, failed after security operatives engaged the attackers.

According to the police, the attack led to the deaths of a soldier, a local hunter and four other persons. The command also disclosed that one of the suspected kidnappers was killed during a gun battle with security operatives.

Residents who remained in the communities expressed fears that the attackers could return, citing a similar kidnapping incident that occurred about three years ago.

One resident, who claimed to be among the local hunters that responded to the attack, said the gunmen ambushed community security volunteers who initially believed they were responding to a fight among workers at the dredging site.

“We were informed that some boys were fighting, and our Baale called us to go there. When we got there, we were in the midst of the kidnappers, but we didn’t know they were kidnappers,” he said.

According to him, the attackers opened fire after local hunters attempted to identify their positions, resulting in casualties and forcing others to flee.

He lamented the delayed arrival of security reinforcements and noted that kidnappers had previously used nearby waterways as escape routes during earlier attacks.

The Baale of Ajerogun Community, Nurudeen Salisu, said the attackers appeared to be targeting a Chinese national working at the dredging site.

He explained that the presence of soldiers providing security at the facility may have triggered the violent confrontation.

“It was a Chinese man who joined them at the dredging site about a year ago who was the target of the kidnappers. When they saw the soldiers, that was why they attacked,” he said.

Salisu alleged that the gunmen killed a soldier, injured another and abducted four persons before fleeing.

According to him, local security volunteers from neighbouring communities attempted to intercept the kidnappers, leading to another deadly confrontation that claimed additional lives.

He further disclosed that one of the abducted victims later escaped and identified the attackers as suspected Fulani gunmen.

The community leader commended the efforts of security agencies but expressed concern over inadequate equipment and poor road infrastructure, which he said hampered emergency response.

“The police, army and other security agencies have tried their best. But the first set of policemen that arrived were not adequately armed, and the bad road also delayed response,” he said.

Another resident and Chairman of the Agbekoya group in Fowowawo Community, Musbau Adenekan, confirmed that many residents had relocated their families due to fear and uncertainty.

“This community is always full of activities from traders and dredgers, but since the incident happened, there has been panic, and some people have already left their homes,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has assured residents that the incident is not linked to banditry and reiterated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Security agencies have continued combing nearby forests and waterways as investigations into the attack progress.

The post Residents Flee Ogun Communities After Failed Kidnap Attempt Leaves Six Dead appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Armed bandits have attacked Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing three persons, including a vice principal and a six-year-old child.

The attack occurred at about 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday and sparked panic among residents while raising fresh concerns over insecurity in the area.

Confirming the incident, the Kogi State Police Command said a large group of armed bandits riding on about 40 motorcycles stormed the community and invaded the school with the suspected intention of abducting students and residents.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, the command said the Divisional Police Officer of Kabba ‘A’ Division immediately mobilised a joint security response after receiving distress calls from the community.

According to the statement, personnel from the police division, the Police Mobile Force, tactical teams, military personnel and local vigilantes participated in the operation.

The police said security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes.

“The combined security operatives engaged the hoodlums in a fierce gun duel, forcing the criminals to flee into the surrounding bush,” the statement said.

The command noted that preliminary investigations had not established any successful mass abduction of students or residents, adding that ongoing assessments were being conducted to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

Police, however, confirmed that three persons lost their lives during the incident.

The victims were identified as Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, aged 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.

The command further disclosed that one of the attackers was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, while a member of the joint security team sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police ordered sustained bush-combing operations and intensified confidence-building patrols across the affected communities.

The police said joint security operatives have continued intensive operations aimed at apprehending fleeing suspects and preventing further attacks in the area.

Residents were urged to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and security operations.

The command assured the public that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.

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The Presidential Villa precinct in Abuja was placed under heavy security on Thursday as authorities restricted access to residents, government workers and individuals with official engagements within the State House area.

The heightened security measures followed threats of a protest over the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State.

A combined team of military personnel, police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) established security checkpoints along major routes leading to the Presidential Villa, including access roads from the Federal Secretariat, Supreme Court and Asokoro areas.

Security operatives conducted thorough screening of motorists and pedestrians, demanding identification and verification of their destinations before granting entry. Individuals without legitimate business within the State House precinct were turned back and directed to alternative routes.

The restrictions caused disruptions to traffic movement around parts of the Three Arms Zone and adjoining roads as security agencies intensified surveillance across strategic locations.

The security build-up comes amid plans by activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, to lead a protest to the Presidential Villa if pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State are not rescued.

Sowore had joined demonstrators in the Federal Capital Territory on Wednesday, where protesters demanded urgent action from the government to secure the release of the victims kidnapped on May 15.

During the demonstration, he criticised the government’s response to insecurity and vowed to continue public protests until the abductees regain their freedom.

According to him, protesters would march to the Presidential Villa if the victims remained in captivity, insisting that the federal government must fulfil its responsibility of protecting citizens and ensuring national security.

As of the time of filing this report, security personnel remained deployed across key entry points to the Presidential Villa, while access restrictions continued to be strictly enforced.

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The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has backed calls for the construction of 3,000 new police stations across Nigeria, warning that the country’s existing security infrastructure can no longer adequately serve its growing population.

Disu stated that the Nigeria Police Force currently operates only about 2,000 police stations nationwide, a figure he described as insufficient for a country with over 200 million citizens.

He made the remarks during Infrastructure Dialogue 2026, a programme organised for entrepreneurs by Deutsche Partners Holding in Abuja.

Existing Security Infrastructure No Longer Sufficient

Represented by the Commissioner of Police in charge of Works, Obiora Oranwusi, the IGP said Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit in the security sector had reached a level that requires urgent and large-scale intervention.

He stressed that expanding security facilities would require stronger collaboration involving public-private partnerships, development finance institutions and capital market investments.

According to him, security infrastructure remains critical to national development and economic stability.

“The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission has identified the need for 3,000 new police stations, 1,000 new prisons and 170 new barracks,” he said.

Police Say Infrastructure Deficit Affects Operations

Disu explained that the shortage of police facilities directly affects operational efficiency and limits the force’s ability to effectively secure communities.

“As of today, we have only about 2,000 police stations nationwide. These deficits directly affect operational effectiveness and must be addressed through sustainable financing models,” he stated.

He noted that addressing these gaps has become increasingly important due to the country’s expanding population and security demands.

Police Repositioning for National Development

The IGP further disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is currently undergoing strategic reforms aimed at redefining its broader role in national development.

According to him, modern policing now extends beyond responding to crimes and includes creating a stable environment that supports businesses and economic activities.

“The Police is undergoing a strategic reorientation—one that positions us as a proactive enabler of national development,” he said.

He added that creating a secure and predictable environment remains essential for investment growth and enterprise development across the country.

The post IGP Supports Plan for 3,000 New Police Stations Nationwide appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Sokoto Eid security warning has been issued as residents prepare for Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. The Sokoto State Police Command urged citizens to remain alert due to ongoing security concerns.

According to the police, festive periods often attract criminal activity. Therefore, residents must stay vigilant and report any suspicious movement.

Police Intensify Patrol and Surveillance

To strengthen safety, the Commissioner of Police directed officers to increase patrols across the state. Security teams will also carry out intelligence-led operations in key locations.

In addition, area commanders and divisional officers have received instructions to maintain a strong presence. This move aims to prevent crime and ensure peaceful celebrations.

Heightened Security Amid Ongoing Threats

Nigeria continues to face multiple security challenges, especially in the North-West. As a result, authorities consider festive periods as high-risk moments that require extra vigilance.

The Sokoto Eid security warning reflects broader concerns about public safety. It also highlights the need for cooperation between security agencies and residents.

Residents Urged to Stay Alert and Law-Abiding

Police advised residents to remain law-abiding during the celebrations. They also encouraged people to avoid actions that could disrupt public peace.

Furthermore, citizens should monitor their surroundings, especially in crowded places such as mosques and markets. Prompt reporting of suspicious activity remains critical.

Security Measures Target Peaceful Celebrations

The police say the goal is to ensure a safe and peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebration across Sokoto State. Increased patrols and surveillance will continue before, during, and after the festivities.

Meanwhile, authorities reaffirm their commitment to protecting lives and property. They also urged community leaders to support efforts to maintain peace.

The Sokoto Eid security warning highlights the importance of public awareness during festive periods. As insecurity persists, both residents and security agencies must work together.

The post Sokoto Tightens Security as Police Issue Eid Warning appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Residents and homeowners in Surulere Community, Amikanle, within Alimosho Local Council Area of Lagos, have raised alarm over the demolition of their properties, accusing suspected land grabbers of acting with police backing.

According to the residents, no fewer than 70 structures, including residential buildings, shops and perimeter fences, were pulled down during an enforcement exercise linked to Suit No: ID/732M/2010 between the Federal Housing Authority and Nurudeen Adewale & Bros (Nig) Ltd.

Some landlords claimed they were asked to pay as much as N55 million, while others were reportedly given demands of N30 million or N15 million.

Eyewitnesses said about 300 men stormed the community, presenting documents said to be from the housing authority authorising them to collect payments for property renewal. Residents alleged that those who failed to meet the payment demands saw their homes demolished.

Chairman of the Surulere Estate Community Development Area, Semiu Oladejo, accused officers from Zone 2 of the Nigeria Police Force and the Lagos State Taskforce of supervising the exercise.

“They came with around 300 hoodlums. The Nigeria Police should not give protection to thugs and land grabbers. Officers from Zone 2 and the Taskforce watched our properties being destroyed,” he said.

Other residents described continued harassment. One affected resident, identified as Oluwafewa, said security operatives accompanied the alleged thugs for about two weeks.

He claimed the group demanded that landlords purchase a N100,000 form, pay an initial N5 million, and clear the balance within two weeks, with different payment amounts assigned to different houses.

Another resident said similar incidents had occurred in the past, alleging that a relative lost his property a decade ago after failing to meet such demands.

Responding to the allegations, Zone 2 Police spokesperson, Afolayan Gbenga, denied that officers worked with thugs, stating that police presence was only to enforce a court order.

“It is not possible that officers went with thugs; we don’t use thugs,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Southwest Zonal Manager of the Federal Housing Authority, Rekiya Sani, wrote to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, stating that the demolition carried out on January 27, 2026, at the FHA Estate in Abesan, Surulere, was done without the authority’s approval.

She noted that although the judgment was in favour of the agency, the execution supervised by the Lagos State Task Force was carried out without its knowledge and requested the immediate withdrawal of task force personnel from the estate.

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The Edo state police command have announced the recovery of N300,000 extortion from a furniture maker by some of its officers attached to the Oba Market Area command in Benin following a now-viral video by a content creator accusing the division officers of extortion

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, the officers involved in the extortion have been identified and arrested and would face disciplinary procedures in accordance to the regulations of the Nigerian Police Force

“The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the public that it has taken decisive action following a video circulated on social media by an influencer in Edo State alleging the extortion of the sum ₦300,000 from a furniture maker by some officers attached to Oba Market Area Command, Benin City.

“The officers involved have been promptly identified, the money has been fully recovered and returned to the victim, while the said officers have been detained and are to face disciplinary procedures in accordance with the extant regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.

“In addition, stern administrative measures have been taken against the Oba Market Area Command to ensure professionalism, discipline, and respect for the rights of citizens in the discharge of their duties.”

Moses Yamu further assured citizens of the command’s dedication to upholding the highest standard of professionalism and accountability in service delivery

“The Command assures the good people of Edo State that it remains committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability in service delivery.

“The command also appreciates the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5 Headquarters, AIG Salman Dogo, for his unwavering support in entrenching accountable and transparent policing in the zone

The post Police Sanction Officers Over 300k Extortion In Edo State appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Yahaya claimed that Eselemo, who originally rented a two-bedroom apartment through his brother and a family agent in 2018, stopped paying rent after the first year. “I was away for medical treatment abroad when he stopped paying rent. When I returned, I found he had remained on the property without my consent,” Yahaya said. “He turned from a tenant to a landlord overnight. He’s erecting new structures, subletting to others, and now claims to own the property.”

Yahaya stated that despite his attempts to report the matter to the relevant authorities, including the Abuja Development Control Department and the police, no action has been taken to stop the encroachment. He said the Development Control officials once visited the property and ordered Eselemo to halt construction, but the order was ignored. “Even when I reported to the police, he refused to honour their invitations and instead sent his lawyer, who insulted the officers,” he said.

Matters took a troubling turn on July 11 when Yahaya was invited to Zone 7 Police Headquarters after Eselemo accused him of impersonating the property’s owner. “Despite presenting evidence of ownership, the police detained me,” Yahaya claimed. “My lawyer was denied access to the complainant, and I was only released after producing sureties and paying money.”

Yahaya further alleged that during a follow-up visit on July 14, officers again threatened him with detention if he failed to produce property documents, which he said were at home. “The IPO and two other officers, who never wore uniforms, demanded money before I was allowed to go,” he said.

He claimed that when police at his request locked the premises to halt further construction, Eselemo returned the same night with his CSO, broke the padlock, and continued building. “It’s like the police are helping him,” Yahaya said. “The officers I reported to are now enabling him.”

Fearing for his safety, Yahaya has appealed to the Inspector General of Police for urgent intervention. “Barrister Faye has sworn to frustrate me because I refused to sell the house to his client. Now, they’ve taken over my property and are collecting rent from tenants as if I don’t exist,” he said.

He said tenants on the property have since confessed that Eselemo presented himself as the landlord and provided rent receipts, which Yahaya claims are now in his possession.

As concerns mount, legal professionals are warning about the broader implications. “If a tenant can weaponize police authority to detain a landlord, we’re staring at a breakdown of the legal process,” said Abuja-based lawyer Usman Yusuf. “The Inspector General must step in. This case is no longer civil—it’s a clear abuse of law enforcement power.”

The post Abuja Landlord Accuses Police of Aiding Tenant’s Attempt to Hijack Property appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, disclosed during a press briefing in Akure that the victims—25-year-old Abah John Friday and his 19-year-old friend, Okah Andrel Eloho—were abducted on June 20, 2025. A formal petition filed by a family member on June 24 triggered the investigation that would later uncover the chilling details behind their deaths.

“Following a petition received from legal representatives of the victims’ family, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad launched a discreet investigation using forensic tracking,” Lawal stated.

According to the Commissioner, detectives traced a stolen iPhone belonging to one of the victims to Computer Village in Lagos, where it had been resold. The phone’s trail led to the arrest of Abdul Mohammed Mubarak, who revealed he bought the device from another suspect, Ojo Michael, later apprehended in Ekiti State. A Lexus RX 350 belonging to the victims was also recovered.

Upon interrogation, Michael reportedly confessed to orchestrating the crime with the help of the landlord, Oladele Femi, and an accomplice still at large, identified only as “Kola.” He admitted to participating in the robbery, abduction, and eventual killing of the two students.

“It was revealed that the landlord masterminded the attack and engaged others to execute the plan. A sum of ₦800,000 was transferred from the male victim’s account during their captivity,” Lawal explained.

In a disturbing turn, Michael also admitted to sexually assaulting the female victim before killing her and her friend, allegedly to prevent them from identifying him. Their bodies were discarded in different locations across Ekiti State.

Based on the suspects’ confessions, police were able to recover the remains of the female victim in a forested area near Ode-Ekiti. The body has since been deposited at a nearby mortuary for autopsy. Efforts to retrieve the male victim’s remains, reportedly dumped in a river, are still ongoing.

Commissioner Lawal described the incident as a “devastating act of betrayal and greed,” and affirmed the command’s determination to bring all perpetrators to justice.

“We are intensifying efforts to apprehend the remaining suspect and ensure justice is served. The loss of these promising undergraduates is a painful reminder of the dangers that lurk behind closed doors,” he said.

The case has sparked outrage across communities in Ondo and Ekiti, with residents calling for swift justice and better security for students in the state.

The post Two Arrested, One on the Run as Ondo Police Uncover Gruesome Murder of University Students appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The fatalities occurred in different parts of the state, including Akko, Kwami, Funakaye, and Yamaltu Deba Local Government Areas. The victims were swept away by fast-moving floodwaters or drowned in erosion sites and open drainage systems.

Authorities described the incidents as both tragic and preventable, highlighting the urgent need for increased public awareness and proactive safety measures. They emphasized that most of the victims were young persons caught off guard by rapidly rising waters in unsecured or unregulated water environments.

Residents have been urged to avoid swimming or walking near rivers, erosion sites, and open water channels, especially during and after heavy rainfall. Parents and guardians are advised to closely supervise children and discourage outdoor activities near hazardous zones.

Communities are also encouraged to take responsibility for public safety by installing warning signs, erecting barricades around high-risk areas, and promptly reporting uncovered or dangerous erosion sites to the appropriate authorities for intervention.

Caution was also advised against attempting to walk or drive through flooded areas, as water depth and currents can be misleading and life-threatening.

Officials reaffirmed their commitment to protecting lives and called on all residents to cooperate by adopting safety precautions and reporting dangers in their environment. The aim, they said, is to prevent further loss of life as the rainy season intensifies.

The post Four Die in Gombe Floods as Police Urge Caution During Rainy Season appeared first on Housing TV Africa.