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Police Kill Suspected Armed Robber, Arrest 25 Murderers, Cultists, Rape Suspects in Delta

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…Recover 11 Firearms, 80 Rounds of Ammunition, Cartridges, and One Vehicle

By Sunday Apah

The police have killed a suspected armed robber, arrested 25 suspected murderers, cultists, and rapists at various locations across Delta State.

This was revealed during a media briefing by the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, who stated that the police also recovered 11 firearms, 80 rounds of ammunition, cartridges, and one vehicle from the hoodlums.

He explained that, acting on credible intelligence that a group of suspected cultists were gathered suspiciously in a bush at Ughelli town at about 19:35 hours on 17th January 2026, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) stormed the area. Upon arrival, the hoodlums engaged the team in a gun duel, which was repelled.

“After the ensuing gun duel, the hoodlums fled with varying degrees of bullet injuries. One of them, who sustained serious gunshot injuries, was arrested and taken to the hospital where he later died while receiving treatment.

“One Beretta pistol with four (4) rounds of live ammunition was recovered. Efforts to arrest the other fleeing suspects are ongoing.”

Also, acting on intelligence on 11th January 2026 at about 21:35 hours, operatives of CP-SAT, in collaboration with community vigilantes, carried out a well-coordinated covert operation and cordoned off a criminal hideout located in an uncompleted building where six (6) suspected kidnappers were hiding in a bush along Upper Agbarho area, Ughelli North LGA.

“Upon sighting the police operatives, the suspects opened fire; however, the operatives responded with superior firepower, forcing the hoodlums to flee with varying degrees of injuries, abandoning their arms and other items. Exhibits recovered include one (1) FNC rifle loaded with one (1) round of live ammunition, and one (1) pump-action gun with thirty-two (32) rounds of live cartridges. All exhibits have been recovered, and the suspects have been taken into custody.”

In a related development, and in line with proactive patrols and confidence-building operations across the State, on 10th January 2026 at about 01:20 hours, operatives of the Ekpan Division, while conducting patrols along Hausa Market, Ubeji, sighted five (5) suspected hoodlums loitering suspiciously within the market area.

“Upon sighting the police team, the suspects fled in different directions. The operatives chased and arrested one Gift Ojulowo (male, 30 years) of New Layout, Ubeji.

“A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of one (1) locally fabricated gun and two (2) live cartridges concealed inside his trousers. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Aye Confraternity cult group. The suspect and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody.”

On 19th January 2026, at about 14:00 hours, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on a tip-off, arrested one Odinaka David and another suspect at Isheagu, recovering one double-barreled gun and six rounds of live cartridges. The suspects are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

On the same date, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on intelligence, stormed Ogwashi-Uku and arrested one Joy Ezeni (female, 45 years), recovering one hundred wraps of weed suspected to be “Loud”. The suspect and exhibits are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

In furtherance of the Command’s sustained intelligence-led efforts to curb the circulation of illicit substances, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on intelligence, recorded a significant breakthrough on 8th January 2026 at about 13:30 hours.

“The operation led to the arrest of Obi Onuigbi Ndubuoso (male, 43 years), from whom thirty-six (36) bottles of illicit drugs, popularly known as LAUGHING GAS, were recovered. The suspect is in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.”

On 8th January 2026 at about 07:31 hours, a report was received at Ogwashi-Uku Division that at about 03:20 hours the same day, at Poly Road by Adaigbo Filling Station, a 20-year-old male was stabbed to death while asleep. Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ogwashi-Uku, promptly mobilised detectives to the scene.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased was allegedly stabbed by his brother, Aliyu Haman (male, 20 years), after taking some substance suspected to be illicit drugs. The suspect was arrested, and the weapon used in committing the crime was recovered,” it added.

Oborevwori Mourns the Passing of Bishop Afareha, Expresses Solidarity with Warri Catholic Diocese

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Warri on the demise of Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, who passed away at the age of 78.

In an official statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, from Asaba, the Governor hailed the late Bishop Afareha as a distinguished servant of God whose exemplary faith, humility, and unwavering dedication profoundly impacted both the Church and the broader community.

Governor Oborevwori lamented the profound loss, underscoring the Bishop’s lifelong commitment to spiritual discipline, pastoral care, and the steadfast advancement of the Catholic faith, particularly within the Warri Diocese.

“The death of Bishop Afareha represents a significant void not only for the Catholic Church but also for Delta State and humanity in general,” the Governor remarked. “He was a venerable father figure, devoted shepherd, and a man of profound prayer whose life was a beacon of service, sacrifice, and allegiance to God’s will.”

Extending his deepest sympathies to the Catholic Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, as well as the clergy, religious community, faithful parishioners, and the family of the departed, Governor Oborevwori prayed for divine comfort and resilience amidst their grief.

He further beseeched God to grant the late Bishop eternal peace and to reward his lifelong dedication and distinguished service to the Church and humanity.

Bishop Afareha was ordained a Catholic priest on December 30, 1973, and was consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997.

The Catholic Diocese of Warri announced his passing with “profound sorrow, yet with a firm hope in the resurrection,” entrusting his soul to the boundless mercy of God.

2027 Governorship Election: Ijaw Leader Urges Politicians to Refrain from Challenging Oborevwori

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By Sunday Apah

Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, a prominent environmental and human rights advocate from the Niger Delta, has lauded Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the successful groundbreaking of the N59.7 billion Lagos-Asaba Expressway Flyover in Agbor.

He has called on politicians to avoid contesting against the governor in the 2027 governorship election, emphasizing that Oborevwori’s outstanding performance merits continued leadership to further advance development in Delta State.

Addressing journalists in Asaba, the state capital, following the flyover groundbreaking at Uromi junction, Chief Mulade expressed admiration for Governor Oborevwori’s administration, stating, “We have just witnessed the groundbreaking of another major flyover in the state.

“Not long ago, the Ughelli flyover was inaugurated, and today, Agbor follows suit. This infrastructure project is poised to boost economic activity and should be wholeheartedly commended.”

He further praised the governor’s preparedness and dedication to steering the affairs of the state, declaring, “Governor Oborevwori came into office prepared and has consistently fulfilled his promises without disappointment.”

As the Ibe-Serimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, Chief Mulade also applauded the recent donation of 65 SUVs to traditional rulers across the state by Governor Oborevwori, describing it as a significant and commendable gesture.

“Through this medium, I extend my gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for the recent presentation of 65 brand-new SUVs to our traditional leaders.

“His administration deeply respects and honors these custodians of our customs, reflecting his commitment to cultural values and governance,” he stated.

Highlighting the progress achieved under the current administration, Chief Mulade urged the public to support Governor Oborevwori for a second term to sustain and expand the ongoing people-centered projects.

He implored political actors to desist from opposing the governor in the upcoming elections, noting, “Given the unprecedented developments we have witnessed, it is vital to allow him to consolidate these achievements. We anticipate further infrastructure launches across the state, with enhanced attention to riverine communities this year.”

Oborevwori Unleashes Colossal N59.7bn Agbor/Uromi Flyover Project to Stamp Out Deadly Traffic Nightmares

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…Promises Deltans Game-Changing Safety, Unequaled Development Surge

By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday ignited a transformational era as he launched the mammoth N59.7 billion Agbor/Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area — a bold strike against the deadly chaos choking this notorious traffic blackspot.

At the electrifying groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Oborevwori thundered the project is a lifeline — a critical, no-nonsense intervention designed to obliterate fatal accidents, slash gridlock, and unleash a tidal wave of economic dynamism across Delta and the entire region.

Spotlighting the hazardous junction saddled with relentless crashes and catastrophic losses of lives and property, the governor warned that its volatile mix of vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians on a federal highway demanded an uncompromising, permanent fix.

“This intersection has been a graveyard for too long. Traffic management here is a disaster zone; only a colossal infrastructure showdown will vanquish the peril,” he declared.

The massive contract to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc — a titan in construction — was confirmed, with an ironclad 14-month deadline to deliver a 1.3-kilometre flyover bridge, dual-lane carriageways, ramps, roundabouts, advanced drainage, and cutting-edge solar street lighting engineered for safety and sustainability.

Flanked by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme and top officials, Oborevwori emphasized the strategic lifeline status of this corridor, nicknamed the “artery of the Niger Delta,” linking East to West and serving as the gateway to the North.

“Every road warrior from Lagos to the East and West must traverse this junction. Its destruction or dysfunction risks strangling the national economy,” he warned.

Governor Oborevwori pledged the flyover would revolutionize mobility, decimate travel delays, unlock vast economic opportunities, and, crucially, shield thousands of daily commuters from harm’s way.

He spotlighted the booming jobs this colossal project would spawn for engineers, artisans, laborers, transporters, and food vendors — injecting new life into the local economy.

Reiterating an ironclad commitment to balanced and inclusive growth, the governor revealed a jaw-dropping N100 billion special intervention that allocates N4 billion each for infrastructure to all 25 local government areas, bolstered by multi-sector investments.

He also detailed the ongoing blitz of transformative projects in Ika South, including a monumental N15.4 billion drainage and road contract targeting devastating floods and erosion, plus a visionary N12 billion road upgrading plan.

“Here, contracts aren’t just awarded—they’re earned through merit and excellence. This flyover will be a shining beacon of that ethos,” he vowed, pledging rigid adherence to deadlines.

Echoing the celebratory mood, immediate past Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa hailed the flyover as a “monumental feat of infrastructure,” applauding Oborevwori’s relentless pursuit of progress and continuity.

He endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s brave economic reforms as essential, though challenging, steps toward Nigeria’s stability.

Works Commissioner, Comrade Reuben Izeze lauded Oborevwori as a fearless and tireless visionary, urging the Ika Nation to rally unwaveringly behind their transformative leader.

Julius Berger’s representative, Mr. Frederich Weiser, expressed deep gratitude for trust in their expertise, pledging world-class quality, safety, and minimal disruption — drawing confidence from prior signature projects like the Ughelli Flyover.

NDDC Chairman Chiedu Ebie threw full weight behind the project, vowing to partner with Delta State on critical feeder roads to support the flyover’s success.

Ika South LG Chairman, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, dubbed the flyover a “destiny-defining masterpiece,” saluting Oborevwori’s decisive, results-driven leadership, including restoring power to communities long left in the dark.

Other dignitaries, including Hon. Victor Nwokolo, APC’s Felix Morka, HRM Benjamin Ikechukwu Keagborekuzi I, and Prof. Onyemaechi Ugboh, showered the governor with high praise for his unprecedented infrastructure crusade and pledged steadfast support.

FG Opens Applications for 2026 Overseas Scholarship

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By Sunday Apah

The Federal Government has officially opened applications for the 2026 Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme, offering Nigerian postgraduate students the chance to pursue advanced studies in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia.

This development was confirmed through a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Dada Olusegun, the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, on Monday.

“The Federal Government has officially commenced the application process for the 2026 PTDF Overseas Scholarships,” the announcement declared.

According to information on the PTDF Scholarship Board website, the program targets MSc and PhD candidates specializing in fields pertinent to the oil and gas industry.

The scholarship package covers tuition fees, round-trip airfare, accommodation, living expenses, health insurance, and bench fees if applicable.

The PTDF noted, “The 2026 Overseas MSc and PhD Scholarships offer access to premier global training, research infrastructure, and expertise, aimed at fortifying indigenous capacity within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.”

For PhD candidates applying to institutions in the United Kingdom, the scholarship follows a split-site model, allowing research activities to be conducted both at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) and at designated UK partner universities, including Robert Gordon University, University of Strathclyde, and University of Portsmouth.

The agency underscored the competitiveness of the scholarship. “Only applicants demonstrating exceptional merit and alignment with program objectives will be shortlisted,” said the statement.

Evaluation criteria include academic achievements, quality of research proposals, professional affiliations, and relevance to the petroleum industry.

Applicants for MSc programs must possess at least a Second Class Lower division (2.2) or better in their undergraduate degree, have completed the NYSC, demonstrate computer proficiency, and hold a minimum of five O’Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics.

PhD candidates are required to submit a detailed research proposal (up to five pages) outlining objectives, methodological approach, and data collection techniques.

“All candidates must validate their National Identity Number (NIN) before submitting their applications. Submission of multiple applications or fraudulent documents will lead to immediate disqualification,” the PTDF warned.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply through the official portal at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng for programs offered by PTDF-affiliated institutions. The deadline for submitting applications is February 27th.

Source: Punch

SHOCKING ALLEGATION: FG Charges Senior Advocate Mike Ozekhome Over Explosive UK Property Forgery Scandal

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By Sunday Apah

In a dramatic escalation of a contentious UK property dispute, the Federal Government has slammed criminal charges against Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, accusing him of perpetrating forgery and employing counterfeit documents to claim ownership of a London property.

The three-count criminal charge, docketed FCT/HC/CR/010/2026, was officially filed on Friday before the Federal High Court in Abuja by Osuobeni Akponimisingha, head of prosecutions at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alongside Ngozi Onwuka, assistant chief legal officer, acting on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).

The veteran legal luminary stands accused of knowingly submitting falsified papers—including a forged Nigerian international passport—to substantiate his ownership claim over a property situated at 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX. These alleged acts reportedly took place during legal proceedings at the London First-Tier Tribunal.

The purported offenses occurred in August 2021 within Maitama, Abuja, falling under the Federal Capital Territory High Court’s jurisdiction.

The formal charges encompass: the submission of false information, the creation and use of forged documents, and the deliberate attempt to deceive a public authority.

Specifically, the charges state: Count one accuses Ozekhome of unlawfully receiving ownership of the London property from a certain “Mr. Shani Tali” in August 2021—a transaction said to constitute a felony under the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Count two alleges that Ozekhome forged a Nigerian passport bearing the name “Shani Tali” in Abuja to fraudulently bolster his claim to the property, violating sections of the Penal Code concerning forgery and fraud.

Count three charges that Ozekhome dishonestly used the forged passport as authentic evidence despite knowing its falsity, further breaching penal statutes.

The prosecution has signaled its intent to summon a range of witnesses including ICPC investigators and Nigerian Immigration Service officials. Crucial exhibits will include the London First-Tier Tribunal judgment, sworn statements, official correspondences, and passport intelligence relating to “Shani Tali.”

No trial date has been scheduled as the justice machinery prepares to handle this high-profile case.

At the core of the controversy lies the ownership of the disputed address at Randall Avenue, involving Ozekhome and the late retired Lieutenant-General Jeremiah Useni.

The original dispute was submitted to the UK First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), case REF/2023/0155, with “Tali Shani” positioning as the claimant and Ozekhome as the respondent.

While Ozekhome insists the property was gifted to him by “Mr. Tali Shani” in 2021, representatives for “Ms. Shani” maintain she holds rightful title.

Interestingly, a mysterious “Mr. Tali Shani” testified supporting Ozekhome’s claim, asserting possession of “Power of Attorney” over the property and alleging that he transferred ownership to Ozekhome. This individual also indicated that Useni was his appointed property manager and close confidant.

Conversely, documents tendered on behalf of “Ms. Tali Shani”—including an obituary, NIN card, ECOWAS passport, and telecommunications evidence—were declared fabricated by the tribunal. The judgment dismissed all claims by these purported parties and shockingly revealed that neither “Mr.” nor “Ms. Tali Shani” legally exist, concluding that the true proprietor, using a false identity, is the late Useni himself.

As this explosive saga unfolds, the Nigerian legal world and the public await the forthcoming trial that promises to expose the depths of deception and legal machinations behind this international property dispute.

APC Jajiya Movement Reaffirms Support for President Tinubu

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Zamfara State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the auspices of the Jajiyya Political Movement has vowed to participate actively in all party activities for the overall success of the party.

The Movement, led by its political leader and Hon member representing Kaura Namoda Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, convened a stakeholders meeting in Kaduna where they reaffirmed their support for the party and its activities.

The meeting, which was attended by critical stakeholders of the APC Jajiyya political movement and a cross-section of party supporters, resolved to participate in all scheduled activities outlined by the National Headquarters of the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party said it has concluded all necessary arrangements to partake in the forthcoming Party congresses and assured to follow due process in the ongoing party membership E-registration exercise.

The Jajiyya Movement also reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in the 2027 general elections. “We unanimously endorsed Rt Hon Dr Aminu Sani Jaji PhD for Governor of Zamfara state and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027 elections,” the movement reaffirmed in a crowded voice.

Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, who addressed the Movement supporters, said the primary purpose of organizing the gathering was to reaffirm their support for the APC and its schedule of activities ahead of the 2027 general elections and to reassure their full support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He commended APC supporters in Zamfara state for their unflinching loyalty and support to the movement and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and urged them to maintain the feat.

The Chairman of Jajiyya Coordinating Committee, Hon Nasiru Zarumi Masama, expressed the movement’s readiness to support the candidature of their political leader, Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, for Governor of Zamfara state in the 2027 elections.

“We believe that Hon Sani Jaji is the most suitable person to lead Zamfara state,” Masama said, adding that considering his track record of dedication and generosity, he is the right person to rescue the state from its predicament.

The event was attended by critical stakeholders of the APC Jajiyya political movement and a cross-section of party supporters who expressed their enthusiasm for Hon Jaji’s gubernatorial ambition and pledged to work tirelessly to ensure that he emerges victorious in the upcoming elections.

The Movement’s leader, Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, expressed his profound gratitude to the movement for their support and endorsement. “I want to express my gratitude to the movement for your support and endorsement,” he said.

The Jajiyya Movement has been a strong supporter of the APC in Zamfara state and has played a significant role in the party’s activities in the state. The movement’s decision to participate in the party congresses and E-registration exercise is seen as a boost to the party’s efforts to strengthen its structure and prepare for the 2027 general elections.

The APC has been facing challenges in Zamfara state, with internal conflicts and defections affecting the party’s performance in recent elections. However, with the Jajiyya Movement’s support and participation in party activities, the APC is expected to bounce back and present a strong challenge to other parties in the state.

The 2027 general elections are expected to be keenly contested, with several parties vying for power in Zamfara state. The APC’s decision to hold party congresses and E-registration exercise is seen as a step towards ensuring that the party is well-prepared for the elections.

The Jajiyya Movement’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid is also seen as a significant boost to the President’s efforts to secure a second term in office. The President has been facing challenges in his bid for re-election, with several parties and individuals expressing interest in challenging him.

However, with the Jajiyya Movement’s support, the President’s chances of securing re-election are expected to improve. The Movement’s leader, Rt Hon Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, is a respected figure in Zamfara state and his support for the President is seen as a significant endorsement.

Former Delta Central Senatorial aspirant, Principal of Government College Ughelli, Siakpere Passes On

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By Sunday Apah

A former Delta Central Senatorial aspirant and former principal of Government College, Ughelli, Chief David Mafuvbe Siakpere, has died on Sunday, 18 January 2026.

This was made known by his son-in-law, Olorogun Fred Okiemute Majemite, in a news story on Facebook.

Siakpere, who hailed from Egbo-Uhurie, Uhurie Sub-clan of Ughievwen Kingdom, was a respected Nigerian economist, educationist, and politician whose contributions spanned decades.

He was the longest-serving principal of Government College, Ughelli, and also served as a principal at Ovwian Grammar School and several other schools.

He will be greatly missed by the people of his immediate community, Ughievwen Kingdom, Urhobo, Delta State, and Nigeria at large.

Just In: Former Catholic Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. John Okeoghene Afareha, Passes Away at 78

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By Sunday Apah

The Catholic Diocese of Warri solemnly announces the demise of its Bishop Emeritus, Most Reverend John Okeoghene Afareha, who departed this life on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Esteemed as a devoted shepherd, spiritual father, and man of profound prayer, Bishop Afareha was called home after a lifetime marked by unwavering dedication to God and service to humanity.

In an official communique issued the same day, the current Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, conveyed that the diocese received the loss “with deep grief, yet anchored in the sure hope of resurrection.”

Ordained to the priesthood on December 30, 1973, and consecrated bishop on May 14, 1997, Bishop Afareha earned widespread recognition for his fidelity to God’s will, pastoral humility, and relentless commitment to nurturing the spiritual welfare of the faithful throughout his ministry.

“Bishop Afareha’s life was a testament to faith and obedience, touching countless lives along his sacred journey,” the statement affirmed.

Bishop Ewherido further reflected, “Even in retirement, he remained steadfast in prayer and a beloved spiritual father to all.”

The diocese entrusted his soul into the boundless mercy of God, earnestly praying that he find eternal repose and be forever embraced in the bliss of heaven.

“Through the powerful intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, to whom he held profound devotion, may he rejoice eternally amidst the saints and angels,” Ewherido remarked, also invoking God’s consolation for all who grieve the loss of the venerable bishop.

In observance of mourning, the Bishop of Warri has mandated that Masses for the repose of Bishop Afareha’s soul be celebrated in every parish and chaplaincy until the Month’s Mind Mass.

Details regarding funeral rites will be announced in due course.

Wanted Drug Kingpin ‘Kanmo-Kanmo’ Arrested 12 Years After Murder of 3 NDLEA Officers

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…As Agency recovers illicit drugs from his hideout, nabs ex-convict, female online vendor, others in Jigawa, Lagos, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Oyo, FCT, Enugu, Kwara raids

By Sunday Apah

​Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency have successfully apprehended a long-wanted drug kingpin, Lekan Jimoh, popularly known as “Kanmo-kanmo”, ending a 12-year manhunt following his involvement in the brutal killing of three NDLEA officers.

In a statement by ​Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja on Sunday 18th January 2026, stated that Kanmo-Kanmo, who is notorious for drug trafficking, evading arrest and mobilizing armed thugs against security agents was on Friday 16th January 2026 tracked to his hideout in Owode town, Ogun State by tactical teams of the Agency following credible intelligence.

During the clinical operation, the suspect was found in possession of 69 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis.

The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the Agency’s commitment to ensuring that no fugitive, regardless of how long they evade justice, remains beyond the reach of the law.

​Lekan Jimoh’s criminal history is marked by extreme violence and lawlessness. As a result, he had on 15th June 2014 orchestrated a barbaric mob action against a team of NDLEA officers who had attempted to arrest him at his enclave.

The attack resulted in the cold-blooded murder of three NDLEA officers, including Rabiu Usman Kazaure and two others, who were killed by armed thugs mobilized by Jimoh. While the suspect managed to escape the scene that day, the Agency remained resolute in its pursuit of justice for the fallen heroes.

​In another encounter with Jimoh on 12th August 2023, when NDLEA operatives stormed his residence in Ado-Odo town, Ogun state, he managed to escape while operatives succeeded in recovering 139 sacks of skunk with a total weight of 1,922 kilograms.

Following assets forfeiture proceedings instituted in court by the Agency, the house in Ado-Odo, which served as a warehouse for his illicit drug trade, has since been finally forfeited to the Federal Government.

Meanwhile, NDLEA operatives in Edo state on Tuesday 13th January raided the Arokpa forest, Uzebba town, Owan West LGA, leading to the arrest of another drug lord, Isihor Edika, 53, and seizure of 320kg skunk and seeds.

In the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, operatives on Friday 16th January tracked and arrested a 44-year-old lady Yinka Agboola following intelligence on her online sale of illicit substances.

At the time of her arrest, 2.2kg skunk and litres of cannabis oil which she produces in her kitchen and sells through online advertisement were recovered from her home at the Kaura district, Abuja.

Another suspect, Tordue Pius Richard, 30, was on Tuesday 13th January arrested with 148.3 grams of cocaine and skunk at his 12 Biskira street, Abacha Estate, Abuja home.

While 118.1kg skunk was seized from the duo of Dauda Kareem and Saheed Obisesan at Fadeyi area of Mushin Lagos on Friday 16th January, not less than 116kg of same substance was recovered from a warehouse at new market area of Enugu, Enugu state same day.

Two suspects: Zaharadeen Yahaya, 25, and Sanusi Maman, 23, were on Thursday 15th January arrested by NDLEA operatives along Onitsha -Asaba expressway, Delta state, while conveying 410,800 pills of tramadol; 84.2 litres of codeine syrup; 82,250 tablets of diazepam; 900 tabs of swinol and 65 pills of Molly.

In Oyo state, Adetunji Ahmed Abayomi, 33, was nabbed on Thursday 15th January at Moniya, Ibadan, with 321 litres of skuchies, and 2.5kg Colorado, a synthetic strain of cannabis, while Rasheed Ajao, 28, was caught same day at Odo-Ona, Ibadan, in possession of 5.4kg Scottish Loud; 1.696kg skunk and 2.5kg Colorado, bringing the total weight to 9.696 kilograms.

In another raid at Agbeni area of the state capital, 52,430 pills of tramadol and bromazepam were recovered from the store of Orji Edwin, currently at large, on Saturday 17th January.

In Kwara state, NDLEA operatives on Tuesday 13th January raided a residential building at Gamo area of Ilorin where they seized 42 bags of skunk that weighed 387.40kg, while a total of 157,519 bottles of codeine syrup were discovered in a container at the Apapa port in Lagos during a joint examination of the shipment by NDLEA, Customs and other security agencies on Friday 16th January.

An ex-convict, Gaddafi Ammani, 26, was arrested with various quantities of skunk and exol-5 pills along his accomplice ⁠Ahmed Sani, 32, at Nassarawa GRA, Ringim LGA Jigawa state on Saturday 17th January.

Before Gaddafi’s arrest, he attempted to escape by climbing the roofs of many houses in his bid to escape. He was armed with a machete which he used to threaten NDLEA operatives and even inflicted injury on one of the officers.

Across all Commands and formations of the Agency nationwide, NDLEA officers continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.

These include: WADA enlightenment lecture to students and staff of Umar Bin Khathab Islamiyyah School, Kurna, Kano; Tumbey College, Kajola Maya, Ikorodu, Lagos; Anglican Secondary School, Makurdi, Benue; members of Katsina emirate, Katsina; and residents of Maitumbi community, Minna, Niger state, among others.

While commending the officers and men of the Ogun, Lagos, Apapa, Edo, Delta, Oyo, FCT, Enugu, and Kwara Commands for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) acknowledged their commitment and enjoined them as well as their colleagues nationwide to maintain the current tempo of their balanced approach to the Agency’s drug control efforts.

He described the arrest of Kanmo-kanmo as a triumph of justice and a testament to the Agency’s long memory, adding that the arrest sends a clear and unambiguous message to all drug barons and fugitives: “You may run, and you may hide for a season, but the long arm of the law will eventually find you.”

​“The arrest of Lekan Jimoh is particularly significant because it closes a painful chapter that began on June 15, 2014. For twelve years, this individual lived with the blood of our gallant officers—Rabiu Usman Kazaure and two others—on his hands.

He mistakenly thought that time had erased his crimes. Today, we have proven that the NDLEA does not forget its own. We do not forget the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives in the service of our fatherland.

This arrest is for the families of those three officers who have waited 12 years for justice”, Marwa said in a tribute to the officers lost over a decade ago.

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