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Delta Court Jails Man 60 Years for Raping 11-Year-Old, Orders ₦50m Compensation

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Delta Court Jails Man 60 Years for Raping 11-Year-Old, Orders ₦50m Compensation

A Delta State High Court sitting in Orerokpe has sentenced 55-year-old Collins Ika to 60 years’ imprisonment for repeatedly raping an 11-year-old girl entrusted to his care in Ugolo community, Okpe Local Government Area.

Delivering judgment on Monday, Justice Joe Egwu also ordered the convict to pay ₦50 million as compensation to the victim.

The court further directed that ₦111,000 brought by the defendant in a bid to secretly settle the case be forfeited to the Delta State Government, after it was established that the attempt was made without the knowledge of the complainant, the police, or a human rights advocate.

The prosecution, led by Miss Phoebian Onomakpome of the state Ministry of Justice, told the court that the victim testified the defendant repeatedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of her between 2021 and 2022 and threatened to kill her if she spoke out.

Her mother also testified that she had left the girl and her siblings in the care of the defendant, their neighbour, during her absence.

The abuse eventually came to light after the child complained of persistent waist pain and later disclosed the ordeal. Following a report to the police, the suspect fled the community but was later apprehended in a sting operation facilitated by a human rights activist.

According to prosecutors, the defendant was lured to a meeting under the pretext of discussing settlement and arrested when he arrived with ₦111,000 allegedly intended to hush the case.

During the trial, the defendant denied the allegations and called only his wife as a witness.

In his ruling, Justice Egwu held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and said the sentence should serve as a strong deterrent to sexual offenders.

In a related development, a Ekiti State High Court in Ado-Ekiti had in 2025 sentenced Olamilekan Ajewole, 33, to life imprisonment for raping a 10-year-old girl, underscoring growing judicial resolve to punish sexual violence against minors.


Sanwo-Olu Hails Disu’s Appointment as Acting IGP, Says Lagos Officer Will Deliver on National Security

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Sanwo-Olu Hails Disu’s Appointment as Acting IGP, Says Lagos Officer Will Deliver on National Security

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated Olatunji Disu on his appointment as Acting Inspector-General of Police by President Bola Tinubu, describing the elevation as a reward for professionalism, competence, and years of meritorious service.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor said Disu’s emergence as the country’s top police officer brings pride to Lagos State and expressed confidence in his ability to succeed in the role.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the Acting IGP possesses the experience, leadership qualities, and operational background required to strengthen policing and improve the security of lives and property nationwide.

“I congratulate Mr. Olatunji Disu on his appointment as the Acting Inspector-General of Police. His elevation to the position of number one police officer in Nigeria is an honour to Lagos State,” the governor said.

He further highlighted Disu’s record of service across various commands and departments within the Nigeria Police Force, both locally and internationally.

The governor particularly recalled Disu’s tenure as Commander of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos — popularly called the “Good Boys” — describing his performance during the period as outstanding.

According to Sanwo-Olu, Disu’s more than three decades in the force reflect consistent leadership and professionalism.

“Disu has served with exceptional leadership for over three decades and has a strong track record of performance. Having worked across different commands, I believe in his capacity to deliver on his new assignment,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu also expressed optimism that the new Acting IGP would leverage his experience to build a more competent, transparent, and accountable police institution capable of meeting Nigerians’ expectations.


Nenadi Usman Urges Julius Abure Faction to Rejoin Labour Party via Elections

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Nenadi Usman Urges Julius Abure Faction to Rejoin Labour Party via Elections

Abuja, February 25, 2026 – Labour Party (LP) National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, has urged former party leader Julius Abure and his supporters to reclaim leadership positions through the upcoming party elections, emphasizing reconciliation and unity.

Speaking at a high-level strategic summit themed “Reuniting the Labour Party Family: Consolidating Strength for Sustainable Political Impact” at the LP National Secretariat in Abuja, Usman called on aggrieved members to set aside personal ambitions and prioritize the party’s interests.

“If anyone feels strongly about holding any position in the party congress, go and contest for it. If you win, you will be declared the leader or occupy the position you are contesting for,” Usman said.

The call comes after the Federal High Court in Abuja, in January, removed Julius Abure as National Chairman of the Labour Party. Judge Peter Lifu cited the Supreme Court verdict of April 4, 2025, declaring Nenadi Usman the valid leader and mandating the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize her caretaker committee as the party’s legitimate authority until the national convention.

Despite the ruling, Abure and his faction have refused to step down, insisting they remain in charge of the party. Usman’s statement appears aimed at encouraging a peaceful resolution through internal democratic processes rather than prolonged legal disputes.

Agege Local Government Partners Kunle Afolayan to Empower Young Creatives with Film, Music Training

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Agege Local Government Partners Kunle Afolayan to Empower Young Creatives with Film, Music Training

Agege Local Government has sealed a strategic partnership with acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan in a bold move to empower young creatives across the community.

The collaboration, spearheaded by the council chairman, Ganiyu Obasa, is designed to provide hands-on training in film, music, and podcasting.

The initiative aims to equip youths with practical skills and industry exposure, enabling them to build sustainable careers in Nigeria’s fast-growing creative sector.

Obasa, accompanied by the vice chairman, council manager, and members of the management team, paid a visit to Afolayan to map out a structured framework for talent discovery and development within the local government area.

According to the chairman, the partnership will identify promising talents and give them opportunities to feature in professional productions, positioning them to compete on both national and international platforms.

Our discussions focused on building a strong partnership to create real platforms where young people can find their footing, develop their skills, and confidently explore their creativity within the film and creative industry,” Obasa shared via his X handle.

He further noted that the programme will prioritise originality, discipline, and sustainable growth, ensuring participants are not only talented but also well-prepared for long-term success.

“This is about opening doors, creating pathways, and ensuring Agege youths are prepared to compete and thrive on bigger stages,” he added.

The initiative signals a growing recognition of the creative economy as a viable pathway for youth empowerment and community development in Agege.

Grief Will Not Silence Me Faithia Williams Returns to Promote Efunroye: The Unicorn After Mother’s Death

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Grief Will Not Silence Me Faithia Williams Returns to Promote Efunroye: The Unicorn After Mother’s Death

Nollywood actress Faithia Williams has resumed promotion of her highly anticipated film, Efunroye: The Unicorn, just weeks after the heartbreaking loss of her mother.

The film, scheduled to premiere nationwide on May 1, 2026, marks Williams’ first cinematic debut and tells the story of a formidable historical figure a merchant, legend and kingmaker known as Efunroye.

Her return to the spotlight comes amid deep personal grief. The actress reportedly lost her mother on February 7, 2026 only two days after celebrating her 55th birthday.

In an emotional social media post, Williams opened up about the weight of her loss, describing each day since her mother’s passing as heavy and overwhelming.

“My mother is gone… and I haven’t even laid her to rest yet,” she wrote. “Every day since her passing has felt heavy. The calls. The condolences. The quiet moments when it finally sinks in. Grief does not wait for you to be ready; it just sits on your chest.”

Despite the pain, the actress said she made a deliberate decision not to retreat from public life.

“I could have stayed away. I could have mourned in silence. But I chose to rise, for my mother, for my legacy, for this story,” she stated.

Describing the film as “a purpose wrapped in frames and films,” Williams said the project represents a dream she carried for years and fought hard to bring to life.

I am Faithia Williams Balogun, and this project is a purpose wrapped in frames and films. Efunroye: The Unicorn is my first cinematic debut. A dream I carried for years. A story I fought to tell. A legacy I am determined to honour.”

The film explores the life of Efunroye, portrayed as a powerful and influential force before Lagos rose into prominence.

Before Lagos became an empire… Before power was negotiated in palaces… Power had a name. EFUNROYE. The Unicorn. Merchant. Legend. Kingmaker,” she wrote.

Williams acknowledged the emotional toll of promoting a major film while grieving but said purpose gave her strength.

I am grieving. I am hurting. But I am also standing. Because life does not pause. Purpose does not disappear. And strength sometimes shows up when you least expect it.”

She emphasised that her promotional efforts are not a distraction from mourning but an act of resilience.

“When you see me promoting this film, understand, it is not noise. It is resilience. It is a daughter pushing through heartbreak to fulfil a promise to herself… and to her mother.”

By As May 1 approaches, the actress appears determined to honour both her craft and her late mother — standing firm at the intersection of loss, legacy and purpose.

Talks of Egbetokun Ogun Governorship Consideration Spread Barely 24 Hours After IGP Resignation

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Talks of Egbetokun Ogun Governorship Consideration Spread Barely 24 Hours After IGP Resignation

Governorship talks surround Kayode Egbetokun barely 24 hours after resigning as IGP. Could Ogun West 2027 race be taking shape?

From IGP to 2027 Contender? Egbetokun’s Resignation Triggers Ogun West Governorship Talks

By Lukman OMIKUNLE

Barely 24 hours after stepping down as Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun is already at the center of growing political speculation in Ogun State.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday accepted Egbetokun’s resignation, which the former police chief attributed to “pressing family considerations,” effectively ending a tenure that was expected to run until June 2027.

But in political circles, particularly within Ogun West Senatorial District, conversations have swiftly shifted from policing to politics.

In a statement, the Presidency disclosed that President Tinubu received Egbetokun’s resignation letter earlier in the day and “expressed his profound appreciation for Egbetokun’s decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation.”

The President also acknowledged his “dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to strengthening internal security architecture during his tenure.”

Egbetokun, appointed in June 2023 under the amended Police Act guaranteeing a four-year term, stepped down voluntarily, according to the statement.

In a swift transition, the President approved the appointment of Tunji Disu as Acting Inspector-General of Police “with immediate effect,” citing prevailing security realities.

Yet, beyond the official narrative lies a developing political subplot.

Egbetokun hails from Erinja in Yewa South Local Government Area, a key political bloc within Ogun West Senatorial District.

With the 2027 governorship election on the horizon, Ogun West stakeholders have intensified advocacy for the district to produce its first governor since the state’s creation over 50 years ago.

His sudden resignation has therefore triggered speculation that he may be aligning with the Ogun West 2027 Agenda.

While no formal declaration has been made, observers note that the timing of his exit, nearly halfway into his tenure, is politically significant.

Should Egbetokun enter the race, he would likely face established political heavyweights within the same senatorial district.

Among them is Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, widely regarded as a formidable aspirant with strong structures and visibility.

Another major figure is Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, who has contested the governorship twice and came notably close in 2015.

There are also murmurs of other Yewa and Awori stakeholders nursing ambitions, though none has publicly declared.

For many political analysts, the larger concern is not the emergence of aspirants but the risk of fragmentation.

Ogun West’s inability to produce a governor over the past 50 years has often been attributed to internal divisions and lack of a united front.

The unfolding scenario raises a critical question, will the district consolidate behind a consensus candidate in 2027, or repeat what some describe as a historical pattern of in-house rivalry that weakens collective ambition?

For now, Egbetokun’s official position remains clear, his resignation was based on “pressing family considerations.”

But in politics, timing often speaks louder than words.

Whether this marks the quiet beginning of a governorship ambition or remains mere speculation, one thing is evident — Ogun West’s 2027 political chessboard is already taking shape.

And barely 24 hours after leaving office as Nigeria’s top cop, Kayode Egbetokun may have entered a different kind of arena.

Whether this development marks the quiet beginning of a governorship campaign remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that Ogun West’s political temperature has risen — and the countdown to 2027 may have subtly begun. Read More

Shutdown Showdown: Frozen $900m Sparks ‘Catastrophic’ World Cup Security Fears in US Host Cities

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Shutdown Showdown: Frozen $900m Sparks ‘Catastrophic’ World Cup Security Fears in US Host Cities

US officials have issued a stark warning: unless nearly $900 million in frozen federal funds are released, security planning for the 2026 World Cup could face “catastrophic” consequences.

At a tense House Homeland Security Committee hearing, leaders revealed that money earmarked for the 11 US cities hosting matches has stalled amid a partial federal government shutdown. The funding freeze, coupled with reported coordination gaps between local authorities and federal agencies, has left security preparations significantly behind schedule.

Ray Martinez, chief operating officer of the Miami World Cup Host Committee, said the city could be forced to cancel planned events if it does not receive $70 million by the end of March.

We’re 107 days out from the tournament but, more importantly, we’re about 70-something days out from starting to build the Fan Fest,” Martinez said. “Without receiving this money, it could be catastrophic for our planning and co-ordination.”

The 2026 World Cup — co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico — kicks off on 11 June, with the first US match set for 13 June in Los Angeles when the USA face Paraguay.

The US host cities include:
Atlanta
Boston
Dallas
Houston
Los Angeles
Kansas City
Miami
New York City / Newark
Philadelphia
San Francisco
Seattle

In Massachusetts, concerns are mounting over matches scheduled at Gillette Stadium, which is set to host seven games. Local officials have reportedly warned the venue could withdraw unless funds are released.

Meanwhile, in Kansas City, deputy police chief Joseph Mabin told lawmakers the department lacks sufficient staffing to meet the city’s security demands without federal support.

The funding in question stems from a special World Cup security grant launched in November by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, part of the Department of Homeland Security.

Initially valued at $625 million, the programme was designed to help host cities protect players, fans, venues and infrastructure against potential terrorist threats. In December, an additional $250 million was added to strengthen cities’ capabilities against drone-related risks.

But with the money now frozen, officials say timelines are slipping — and critical security infrastructure may not be ready in time.

The tournament’s group-stage matches include:
England vs Croatia in Dallas (17 June)
England vs Ghana in Boston (23 June)
England vs Panama in New York (27 June)
Scotland vs Haiti and Morocco in Boston (14 and 19 June)
Scotland vs Brazil in Miami (24 June)

With just over three months until kickoff, local organisers say decisions on staffing, construction, technology deployment and fan events cannot be delayed much longer.

As one official put it bluntly: without swift action in Washington, the world’s biggest sporting event could arrive before America’s security preparations are fully built.

‘No Payment, No Militant Release’ – FG Dismisses Ransom Claims in Niger Students’ Rescue

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‘No Payment, No Militant Release’ – FG Dismisses Ransom Claims in Niger Students’ Rescue

Nigeria’s FG dismisses as “completely false” reports of huge ransom and militant releases to free pupils abducted from St. Mary’s boarding school in Niger State

Did Nigeria Pay a Huge Ransom to Free Abducted St. Mary’s Pupils? Government Strongly Denies Reports, Calls Them Baseless Fabrications

The Federal Government has firmly shut down circulating reports alleging that a massive ransom—including the release of militant commanders—was paid to secure the release of over 200 pupils and staff abducted from St. Mary’s Catholic boarding school in Papiri, Niger State.

In a sharp rebuttal issued Tuesday, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris described the allegations—originally reported by international agency AFP citing anonymous intelligence sources—as “completely false and baseless.”

“The attention of the Federal Government of Nigeria has been drawn to a publication circulating in the media… alleging that the Nigerian Government paid a ‘huge’ ransom, including the release of militant commanders, to secure the freedom of the schoolchildren abducted from St. Mary’s boarding school in Niger State,” the statement read.

“The Federal Government states that these allegations are completely false and baseless, and constitute a disservice to the professionalism and integrity of Nigeria’s security forces and the sacrifices they make daily,” it added.

The government categorically declared: “For the avoidance of doubt, no ransom was paid, and no militant commanders were freed.”

Idris highlighted the reliance on shadowy sources: “The allegations rely entirely on anonymous ‘intelligence sources’ and individuals ‘familiar with the talks,’ in contrast to the clear and on-the-record denials issued by constituted authorities.”

He pointed out contradictions in the reports themselves and noted public refutations from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and National Assembly leadership.

On the dramatic claim of helicopter-delivered ransom with cross-border verification, the minister was blunt: “The assertion that ransom was delivered by helicopter to insurgents, with cross-border confirmation of receipt, is fiction,” adding that the DSS had “formally dismissed this claim as fake and laughable.”

The government emphasized that the successful, casualty-free rescue stemmed from coordinated intelligence and operational excellence—not negotiation with criminals.

“Nigeria is confronting a structured, profit-driven criminal enterprise,” the statement read. “The successful rescue of the pupils, without casualty, was the result of professional intelligence and operational precision.”

Idris reaffirmed the administration’s zero-tolerance ransom policy and urged media caution: “We respect the freedom of the press, but we firmly reject a narrative built on shadowy, unnamed sources.”

He called on outlets to verify facts before publishing stories that could embolden criminals or demoralize troops, as the nation continues its fight against kidnapping syndicates. The pupils were freed in the lead-up to Christmas following their November 21 abduction. Read More

Kayode Egbetokun Resigns as IGP; Tunji Disu Takes Charge Ahead of 2027 Polls

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Kayode Egbetokun Resigns as IGP; Tunji Disu Takes Charge Ahead of 2027 Polls

Nigeria’s policing architecture witnessed a major leadership shift on Tuesday as Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, resigned from office, paving the way for the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, as acting Inspector-General ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Egbetokun, who was appointed on June 19, 2023, stepped down citing pressing family matters requiring his “undivided attention,” according to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The IG resigned in a letter today, citing family issues which require his undivided attention,” Onanuga confirmed.

However, multiple Presidency sources disclosed that the decision followed a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday evening, where he was reportedly asked to step aside.

Tinubu Accepts Resignation, Appoints Disu
In a State House statement, the President accepted Egbetokun’s resignation and appointed Disu as acting IGP with immediate effect, citing the prevailing security challenges across the country.

The statement noted that the appointment was made in accordance with extant laws and legal guidance, particularly provisions of the Police Act 2020.

In compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation,” the statement read.

The President expressed confidence in Disu’s “experience, operational depth, and demonstrated leadership capacity” to steer the Nigeria Police Force during what he described as a critical period.

Egbetokun’s tenure had sparked controversy in 2024 after he reached the mandatory retirement age of 60 on September 4. His stay in office was extended following amendments to the Police Act, a move that drew mixed reactions within security and political circles.

His resignation now clears the path for a new leadership structure within the Force.

Before his appointment, Disu served as Assistant Inspector-General in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos, assuming office in February 2026.

He previously headed the Special Protection Unit at Force Headquarters, Abuja, and served as Commissioner of Police in both the Federal Capital Territory and Rivers State commands.

Between 2015 and 2021, he was Commander of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos, earning a reputation for operational efficiency.

Disu’s elevation is expected to trigger a wave of retirements among senior officers, particularly Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) and AIGs who are senior to him.

Police tradition, similar to military culture, often requires senior officers to step down when a junior is appointed as head of the institution. Sources within the Police Service Commission indicated that between 15 and 20 senior officers could resign in the coming days.

Some insiders, however, noted that while the practice is entrenched, it is not mandatory, and the decision ultimately rests with affected officers and the new IGP.

Should the resignations occur, the development would create vacancies across strategic departments including Operations, Finance and Administration, Logistics, Intelligence, and Training — potentially triggering a broader reshuffle and promotions within the Force.

Several retired senior officers welcomed the leadership change, describing it as consistent with Force tradition and necessary for institutional discipline.

They argued that it would be administratively awkward for DIGs senior to the acting IGP to remain in office, though the discretion ultimately lies with the President and the Police Service Commission.

The former officers also stressed the enormity of the security challenges confronting Nigeria, ranging from insurgency and banditry to kidnapping and communal unrest, urging the new police chief to prioritise structural reforms.

Some reiterated calls for decentralisation of policing, advocating a model that allows for greater state-level operational control while maintaining federal oversight.

The leadership transition comes at a politically sensitive time as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. Analysts say the appointment signals the administration’s intention to recalibrate the security architecture ahead of the polls.

With Tinubu reaffirming his commitment to strengthening national security and institutional capacity, attention now shifts to how Disu will shape his management team — and whether the anticipated wave of resignations will redefine the upper ranks of the Nigeria Police Force.

As one retired officer put it, “It is a new chapter. The expectation is stability, discipline and decisive leadership in a very challenging time.”

Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals Targets 65m Litres Daily Supply, Sets Aside 20m Litres for Export

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Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals Targets 65m Litres Daily Supply, Sets Aside 20m Litres for Export

Nigeria is poised to achieve sustained fuel self-sufficiency as Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals ramps up production to meet and exceed domestic petrol demand.

President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, disclosed in Lagos that the refinery will supply between 60 and 65 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily to the Nigerian market under a structured off-take agreement with selected marketers nationwide.

According to him, any surplus estimated at 15 to 20 million litres per day will be exported.

“We have agreed an off-take framework to supply up to 65 million litres daily for the domestic market. Any surplus, estimated at between 15 and 20 million litres, will be exported,” Dangote stated.

Nigeria’s average daily petrol consumption ranges between 50 and 60 million litres, meaning the refinery’s projected output will exceed current national requirements.

The development marks a decisive shift from decades of heavy reliance on imported refined petroleum products and the recurring fuel scarcity that trailed it.

Under a revised supply model endorsed by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), nationwide distribution will be handled through major marketing firms, including:
MRS Oil Nigeria Plc
Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Retail
11 Plc
TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc
Rainoil Limited
Ardova Plc
Conoil Plc

The structured arrangement is designed to eliminate supply bottlenecks, improve distribution efficiency and curb speculative practices that have historically disrupted fuel availability.

Industry analysts describe the move as a fundamental reform of Nigeria’s fuel supply chain. As Africa’s largest crude oil producer, Nigeria had for years depended on imported refined products — a practice that strained foreign exchange reserves, exposed the economy to global logistics shocks and weakened the naira.

With domestic refining now projected to exceed consumption, the country could conserve billions of dollars annually in foreign exchange previously spent on petrol imports.

Analysts say the shift may help stabilise the naira, strengthen external reserves and improve Nigeria’s trade balance.

During a recent visit to the facility, Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bayo Ojulari, described the refinery as a transformative national asset capable of redefining Nigeria’s energy security framework.

He commended the refinery’s operational performance, revealing that it had surpassed its design expectations.

This plant was designed for 650,000 barrels per day. None of us thought it would even touch 550,000. What we saw live today was 661,000. These are live parameters, not reports or photographs,” Ojulari said.

Designed with a nameplate capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery’s performance signals what stakeholders see as a turning point in Nigeria’s industrial and energy landscape — potentially ending decades of fuel import dependence while positioning the country as a net exporter of refined petroleum products.

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