The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a significant operational breakthrough with the arrest of two notorious bandits and kidnapping kingpins responsible for violent crimes across Katsina, Zamfara, Niger and Kwara States.

A sttement from the force spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said on Friday, December 19, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID–IRT), attached to Kwara State, in a covert operation carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Kwara State Police Command, intercepted and arrested two members of the dangerous banditry and k!dnapping gang along the Komen–Masallaci axis in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Hundeyin gave the names of the suspects as Abubakar Usman, alias Siddi ‘m’ aged 26 and Shehu Mohammadu, alias Gide ‘m’ aged 30. He mentioned that both suspects were arrested in Komen–Masallaci village, Kaiama LGA of Kwara State at the time of arrest.

Items recovered from the suspects incude one brand new Honda Ace 125 motorcycle, red in colour, valued at N1,850,000.00, which investigations revealed was purchased with proceeds of ransom payments; N500,000.00 cash, being unspent ransom money; one AK-47 rifle with a magazine loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are members of a notorious banditry and kidnapping gang terrorising communities across Zamfara, Katsina, Niger and Kwara States. Further findings indicate that the gang also doubles as suppliers of arms and ammunition to criminal elements.

Both suspects are currently cooperating with investigators to enable the arrest of other members of the syndicate and recovery of additional weapons.””the statement read

Hundeyin mentioned that one of the suspects, Abubakar Usman (alias Siddi), was recently identified as the individual seen in a viral video flaunting firearms and large sums of money on social media.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, on his birthday.

Otunba Ashiru is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, as well as a professional marketing and strategic management expert who has continued to make significant contributions to both the private and public sectors.

The President describes Otunba Ashiru as a quintessential gentleman, bridge builder, and advocate of economic development.

President Tinubu acknowledges the former Stanbic IBTC Bank director’s tenacity and innovation, qualities that earned him the Commissioner of the Year Award during his tenure as Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Ogun State.

The President states that Otunba Ashiru has continued to distinguish himself as Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, underscoring his impact on the growth and development of businesses and the business community in Nigeria.

President Tinubu prays that this year and the years to come will bring Otunba Ashiru and his family tremendous joy, continued peace, and excellent health.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
25th December 2025

The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has urged Christians in the state to continue spreading God’s love during the Christmas season.

The governor said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises the expression of God’s love to humanity and should inspire compassion and unity among residents.

This was contained in a Christmas message issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

Governor Adeleke noted that the festive season serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude to God and appreciation for life and shared blessings.

“This season calls us to reflect on the blessings we have received and to share kindness with those around us,” the statement read.

He described Christmas as a period when families gather, communities rejoice, and hope is rekindled and urged residents to embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness.

Reflecting on the past year, the governor acknowledged both challenges and achievements recorded in the state.

“In the past year, we have faced challenges and celebrated victories together. Through it all, the resilience and faith of the people of Osun have continued to inspire me,” he said.

Governor Adeleke also expressed gratitude to God and the people of the state for their support and prayers.

“I thank God for the gift of life and for the privilege of leading this great state. Collective efforts were laying the foundation for prosperity and peace,” he disclosed.

The governor urged residents to remember the less privileged during the celebration by extending acts of generosity.

“As we rejoice this season, let us not forget the less privileged among us. We should encourage love and support for our neighbors and strangers alike,” be concluded.