News
Oyo Abduction Survivor Disputes Official Rescue Narrative, Shares Details of 56-Day Captivity
By Rukevwe Odeh
A survivor of the mass abduction involving pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has challenged the Federal Government’s account of how the victims regained their freedom, insisting they were released by their captors rather than rescued during a military operation.
The survivor, Zacchaeus Olatunde, recounted his experience after spending 56 days in captivity, describing the harsh conditions the victims endured while in the kidnappers’ camp.
According to Olatunde, the abductors confiscated the victims’ mobile phones immediately after they arrived at the camp. He alleged that a teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed after failing to surrender his phone without delay.
He further claimed that another captive, Deacon John Olaleye, was later executed after the kidnappers accused security operatives of moving toward their hideout despite previous warnings.
The survivor said the abductees were kept in chains, blindfolded throughout their stay, and frequently relocated through forest areas to avoid detection. He also alleged that Christian prayers were prohibited, while the kidnappers regularly observed their own Islamic prayers.
Olatunde maintained that the captives were eventually instructed to leave after the abductors reportedly learned that some of their relatives had been arrested by security agencies. He said they later encountered security personnel, who took them into custody.
He also disclosed that military officers later showed him photographs of suspected kidnappers and informed him that eight individuals had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Despite the survivor’s account, the Federal Government has continued to state that the victims were rescued through a coordinated security operation. Authorities have already arraigned three suspects before a Federal High Court in Abuja on charges related to terrorism and kidnapping.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have not publicly responded to Olatunde’s specific claims, and his version of events has not been independently verified.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
A group of stakeholders in Warri has announced its decision to withdraw support for the incumbent member representing the Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group, while explaining its position, cited what it described as dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance and representation of the constituency.
The stakeholders subsequently declared their support for Comrade Jude Ukori Mulade as their preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives election.
According to the group, its decision followed concerns over the level of representation and development delivered to the constituency under the current administration.
The stakeholders said they were seeking a representative who would be more responsive to the needs of the people and more committed to advancing issues affecting residents across the constituency.
They urged other political stakeholders and eligible voters in Warri to consider Mulade’s candidacy as the 2027 elections approach.
The group’s endorsement adds to the growing political activities and realignments expected to shape the contest for the Warri Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ereyitomi, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations contained in the group’s statement.
By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh
Residents and road users along the Warri Airport Road, particularly the section near Federal Government College in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, have continued to contend with recurring flooding despite years of road construction and rehabilitation efforts.
The affected stretch is frequently submerged following heavy rainfall, with inadequate drainage identified as a major factor contributing to the persistent flooding.
The recurring situation has raised concerns among motorists, residents and other road users, who say the condition of the road continues to disrupt movement and create difficulties for commuters whenever there is significant rainfall.
The development has also renewed calls for attention to the drainage system along the route, with residents hoping that a lasting solution will be implemented to prevent the road from repeatedly becoming flooded.
By staff Reporter: Rukevwe Odeh
A heavy downpour has left the popular NNPC Housing Complex Road, also known as Ekpan Link Road, submerged in floodwater in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
The rainfall caused significant water accumulation along the busy road, affecting movement and creating difficulties for motorists and other road users.
The condition of the road has renewed concerns over flooding and drainage challenges in the area, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents and commuters are expected to exercise caution while using the affected route as efforts to manage the situation continue.
-
Social2 months agoNAIS – Northern Nigeria/Abuja Chapter Honours Amb. Ebi Lagos with Award of Recognition
-
Breaking3 months ago2027: INEC Alegedly Announces Plans to Conduct Party Primaries in the Newly Created State Constituencies in Warri North and Warri Southwest LGAs, Others
-
News1 month agoPAP: EX-AGITATORS OF BOYLOAF CAMP DISTANCE SELVES FROM THEIR LEADERS ONSLAUGHT ON THE PAP ADMINISTRATOR
-
Local News4 months agoJust In: Ambassador Podoki Emerges APP Candidate for Burutu Constituency-I Assembly Seat
-
Politics3 months ago2027: Mulade Challenges NDC’s Substitution of His Party Candidacy, Demands ₦5 Billion Damages
-
Breaking3 months agoTinubu Intervenes in Warri Delineation Dispute, Meets Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri Leaders
-
Local News4 months agoINC: Group Faults Sponsored Attacks on Tompolo, Igbadiwei, Urges Unity in Ijaw Nation
-
Entertainment2 months agoJKing Logistics Coordinator Shed Light to Address Ijaw Music Wage Controversy