President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that the order to remove police officers from VIP and VVIP security assignments will stand, stressing that the directive is final and must be obeyed without delay.

The President made this clear on Wednesday during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the State House, Abuja.

He cautioned ministers and government officials against ignoring the directive, noting that any concerns should be channelled through the Inspector General of Police.

President warns ministers against non-compliance

President Tinubu said police personnel were trained to protect citizens, especially vulnerable groups, and should not be restricted to guarding a few privileged individuals.

He explained that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, would oversee full implementation of the new policy.

He added that the Ministry of Interior, led by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, would coordinate the replacement of withdrawn police officers with operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who are also trained and armed for VIP protection.

Police officers to be redeployed to tackle insecurity

President Tinubu stressed that redeploying police officers to frontline duties would strengthen the fight against kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism.

He noted that exceptions would be considered, but only through proper clearance from the police leadership.

The President further urged the NSA to ensure strict adherence, saying the security structure must be reviewed to meet the needs of communities affected by violence.

Tinubu directs stakeholders on ranching reforms

During the meeting, President Tinubu also instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima to sensitise governors on ranching reforms aimed at reducing clashes between herders and farmers.

He directed the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muktar Maiha, to begin mobilisation in conflict-prone areas and identify grazing centres suitable for rehabilitation.

The President emphasised that states maintain constitutional control over land, adding that proper ranching systems would help protect rural communities and minimise long-standing conflicts.

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The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has announced the successful discovery and shutdown of a large-scale fake drug manufacturing site in the Ojo area of the state.

Speaking with newsmen on Wednesday at the raided building on Alhaji Oki Road, Mosafejo, in Ojo, Jimoh described the operation as a significant breakthrough in safeguarding public health.

He said that the illegal facility had been producing counterfeit pharmaceutical products intended for public consumption.

He said that many of the items recovered were orally administered drugs that posed serious health risks to unsuspecting buyers.

“Fake drugs injure and endanger the lives of thousands. The last floor of the three-storey building was where these items were being produced illegally.

“The machines used to alter drug expiry dates and repackage expired products were also recovered,” he said.

CP Jimoh stated that the operation was conducted in accordance with the powers granted to the police under Nigerian law, which mandates officers to investigate and arrest individuals involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit drugs.

He said that the police collaborated with relevant agencies throughout the investigation.

According to him, the alleged mastermind behind the operation is still on the run, and efforts are underway to track him down.

“We will extend our investigation to all his activities; we are not going to limit our work to this building. Our collaboration with relevant agencies will continue until every person involved is brought to justice,” he said.

The police boss issued a stern warning, urging the public to exercise caution when buying medicines and to verify the authenticity of drugs before use.

He noted that counterfeiters often target unsuspecting buyers and encouraged people to report any suspicious activities.

“Consumers must be very careful about where they buy their drugs. If you have doubts, verify before you buy,” he said.

The commissioner also commended officers of the command, community leaders, and members of the public whose credible intelligence led to the raid.

“We appreciate the valuable information from the community. Once you give information to the police, we will protect you. This success came from actionable intelligence, and we want the public to have confidence in us,” he said.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to intensifying crime detection and prevention, adding that the fight against counterfeit drugs remains a priority.

Jimoh stated that investigations were ongoing, with more arrests expected as the command works to dismantle networks involved in distributing counterfeit medical products. (NAN)

The post Police raid fake drug factory in Lagos, hunt for mastermind appeared first on Vanguard News.

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Popular Nigerian media personality and influencer, Papaya Ex, has officially taken a bold step into Nollywood with the premiere of her debut film, ‘The Night Market’.

The movie features an impressive lineup of stars, including Tony Umeh, Tina Mba, Chidi Dike, Sydney Talker, Sexy Steel, Chichi (BBN), MC Lively, Pinki Debbie, James Brown, Hermes, Akeem Ogara, and Rosemary Afuwape.

Beyond the excitement of the star-studded cast and production, Papaya Ex opened up about what inspired her decision to transition into acting after years of dominating the digital space.

Reflecting on her journey, she shared that acting has always been a quiet ambition she held close to her heart.

“Honestly, acting has been something I’ve wanted for a long time. I just kept it to myself because I didn’t want to rush it,” Papaya Ex said.

She credited her fans for encouraging her to take the leap, explaining that their response to her brief character skits online pushed her to recognise and develop her natural talent.

“The day I stepped on a real set and felt completely at home, I said, ‘Okay, this thing is really in me.’ That was when I knew,” she added.

Papaya Ex explained that shifting from content creation to full-time acting transformed her entire creative process.

While content creation thrives on spontaneity and speed, she noted that acting requires a deeper emotional connection and a high level of patience.

“Content creation is quick… you get an idea, film it, move on. Acting is deeper. You have to understand the character, feel their emotions, and carry their story,” she said.

This new journey, she added, has taught her to slow down, engage more deeply with her craft, and tap into a more profound creative space.

As she looks ahead in Nollywood, Papaya Ex emphasized that she is particularly drawn to roles layered with depth and meaning.

“I love roles that have depth. Stories that carry emotion, culture, mystery, something people will watch and say, ‘This one touched me,’” she said, explaining that she grows the most when she takes on roles that challenge her and reveal different shades of her artistry.

Responding to critics who argue that influencers get acting roles without proper training, she maintained a calm but resolute stance.

“People will always talk. But one thing about me is that I’m putting in the work. I’m learning, training, and taking this career seriously. I prefer to let the work speak for me,” she stated.

She also acknowledged the sacrifices that come with this new chapter, noting the discipline, strength, and emotional commitment acting demands.

“Acting takes time, energy, emotions, sometimes even your peace. You give up comfort, you give up sleep… Starting something new also comes with fear, but I still chose it because the dream means so much to me. And honestly, it’s worth it,” she said.

With a massive and loyal online community, Papaya Ex added that she is intentional about the scripts she accepts and the narratives she aligns with.

“I choose stories that make sense, that align with who I’m becoming,” she noted.

She also expressed deep appreciation for her fan base, acknowledging their impact on her growing acting career.

“My online community has helped me a lot… they share it, talk about it, hype it, and give it life. It brings attention to whatever I’m working on… It’s not just followers; it’s real support, and I don’t take it for granted.”

Papaya Ex’s debut marks a pivotal moment in her career, signaling her determination to evolve beyond social media and establish herself as a serious actress, with passion, dedication, and a devoted audience supporting her rise.

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Residents of Katampe Extension in Abuja have been sent into panic as a group of thugs, in the company of some gun-toting policemen, raided the district.

The thugs and armed men went on a rampage, indiscriminately catching and bundling gatekeepers manning residential gates into their truck and driving off, for no offence, leaving the residences unsecured with some gates left wide open.

The residents are sounding the alarm over what they described as the unlawful and dangerous campaign by the Bwari Area Council to extort money from them under the guise of enforcing payment for radio and television licences, calling for the immediate intervention of the FCT Minister, the Inspector General, and the Judicial Service Commission to avert a total breakdown of law and order in the district.

A statement signed by the Katampe Extension Residents Association President, Mohammed Gimba, described the situation as “bizarre”, noting that supposed agents and officials of the Bwari Area Council are resorting to self-help and taking the law into their own hands.

He described a situation where law-abiding citizens performing their legitimate duties in a private residential building are summarily rounded up like common criminals and imprisoned by officials of the council, as a breach of their fundamental human rights and a flagrant disregard of law and order.

“What we have currently is a situation whereby bystanders, private security men and house helps are being randomly arrested and detained by council officials with the aid of the police, instead of the homeowners. This is impunity and an illegality taken too far,” the chairman said.

He noted that, under Nigerian law, specifically the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, a person can only be arrested or detained if there is reasonable suspicion of their involvement in a crime (Section 35 of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999, and Section 7 of ACJA). The police do not have the authority to detain someone just because they are related to, or are the employee of, a suspect.

“The law doesn’t allow for ‘substitutional’ detention. More worrisome is the fact that the contentious issue of radio and TV licence fees being demanded by the Bwari Area Council is purely a civil matter for which the district is collectively seeking legal interpretation against the background that the Abuja Municipal Area Council recently suspended the imposition of the said levy.

In any case, Katampe Extension falls within the Abuja Municipal Area Council and not Bwari Area Council. The escalating harassment, which has led to arrests and illegal detentions, is an attack on residents’ rights.”

The chairman said Katampe Extension has no visible project by the Bwari Area Council, wondering why the council is on a desperate mission to extort money from residents of the district under the guise of radio and television licences, which he described as “disturbing”, particularly because the levies are to be paid into the accounts of a private company, not that of the Bwari Area Council.

He contended, “In a community where people are simply trying to live peacefully, these actions create fear, disrupt lives, and smack of extortion rather than lawful revenue collection.”

“In view of the above, we urge the Bwari Area Council to immediately halt these aggressive actions and engage in constructive dialogue with Katampe Extension residents. Clear explanations of the legal basis for these demands, coupled with a more consultative approach, would foster trust rather than fear. Residents are willing to engage, but they will not silently endure harassment,” the statement said.

The statement also called on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to call the chairman of Bwari Area Council to order, to forestall a situation that can lead to a total breakdown of law and order in Katampe Extension district, as a result of the misguided and illegal activities of Bwari Council officials.

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…pledges agricultural transformation

Niger State Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming agriculture and enhancing food security across Niger State.

He gave the assurance during the official commissioning of the Bago Cassava Processing Centre at Paiko, in Paikoro Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking through the former Commissioner of Planning, Mustapha Ndajiwo, the governor emphasised the importance of collective efforts to modernise food production, expand processing capacity, and create economic opportunities for farmers, youths, and families.

He stated that the ongoing strategic partnerships and innovative policies are designed to position Niger State as Nigeria’s leading food security hub.

Governor Bago stated that his government is focused on building a productive, investment-friendly economy where every citizen benefits from the state’s agricultural potential.

In her opening remarks, Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Hon. Afiniki Eunice Dauda, praised the governor’s initiatives and called on others to emulate his example.

She stressed the significance of fostering cooperation and mutual respect within the community.

The Chairman of Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited, Mr Sammy Adigun, represented by Programme Coordinator Engr. Bashir Tanko commended the member representing Paikoro Constituency for spearheading the cassava processing project.

He described the initiative as a strategic investment aligned with the state’s vision for agricultural transformation.

Engr. Tanko noted that community-driven projects like this strengthen value chains, empower farmers, and enhance food security.

Engr. Tanko also reiterated Niger Foods’ commitment to supporting projects that improve processing, storage, and market access for rural producers.

He highlighted that the Bago Cassava Processing Centre would serve as a model for future agro-processing hubs planned across Niger State, promoting sustainable livelihoods and inclusive economic growth.

Earlier, Pharm. Umar Nasiru Paiko, the member representing Paikoro Constituency, described the centre as a significant milestone in the state’s agricultural development.

He praised Governor Bago’s vision, noting that the centre represents a bold step towards mechanised farming, youth empowerment, and strengthened food security, adding that the project supports the state’s broader economic diversification agenda.

The commissioning event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Hajiya Sa’adatu Sani Musa, founder of Future Pathways Development Initiative; Hon. Sani Idris, member representing Tafa Constituency; the APC State Party Chairman, represented by the Secretary of Paikoro Local Government Council; and other stakeholders.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE

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No fewer than four people were injured when a truck carrying bags of onions reportedly triggered an Improvised Explosive Device, IED, at Lingir Village, Guzamala Local Government Area, Borno State, on Wednesday.

The truck reportedly was en route from Baga Village, Kukawa LGA, to Maiduguri.

The victims, identified as driver Umar Isah (25) and passengers Suleiman Isa (22), Ibrahim Bala (25), and Umar Hassan (22), all residents of Maiduguri, sustained varying degrees of injuries. The truck, with registration number XA 504 GSH Yobe, was significantly damaged in the explosion.

The incident reportedly took place at about 10:30 a.m., prompting a rapid response from troops of Operation HADIN KAI and other security teams.

The area was cordoned off, photographed, and searched for additional devices, though none were found.

The injured were initially taken to General Hospital Monguno before being referred to the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri, where they are receiving treatment.

The attack is suspected to have been carried out by ISWAP terrorists.

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At least 17 returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were killed on Wednesday when suspected bandits attacked Tse Ajogo village in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Eyewitnesses told BusinessDay that the gunmen stormed the village at about 6 a.m., firing sporadically and targeting anyone in sight. The attackers also injured eight residents, razed seven houses, and left several villagers unaccounted for.

A survivor, Bernard Atom Atoo Tyokongu, narrated the ordeal, describing the assault as sudden and brutal.

“The attackers invaded our village and started shooting at anyone in sight. So far, 17 of our fellow returning IDPs have been confirmed dead. Several people are still missing, and eight have been injured. We are preparing to take them to a nearby hospital,” he said.

Another resident, Mwuese Gesa, corroborated the account, adding that the community had only recently begun resettling after a previous attack less than two months ago.

Naija News learnt that the Chairman of the Tiv Cultural and Social Association, Wukari Chapter, Aondowase Tor-Orshi, also confirmed the incident, calling it a devastating blow to families who had only just started rebuilding their lives.

At the time of filing this report, the Taraba State Police Command has yet to release a statement.

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]

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The Bauchi State Government has dismissed claims suggesting that Governor Bala Mohammed is considering defecting to the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP.

The clarification followed a statement attributed to the PRP Publicity Secretary in the state,  Hon Wada Abdullahi, alleging that the governor was not welcome to join the party. The government described the remark as “false” and “a product of imagination.”

According to Abdullahi, the party’s attention was drawn to circulating reports suggesting that Governor Mohammed might seek refuge in the PRP following the “alleged disintegration” of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nationwide.

However, the PRP declared that even if the rumours were true, the governor would not be welcomed.

Abdullahi stated that Governor Mohammed’s leadership record in Bauchi State falls short of the standards the party upholds.

But responding to PRP in a statement issued on Wednesday, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado, said Governor Mohammed has never contemplated leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), adding that no move—direct or indirect—had been made toward joining the PRP.

According to Gidado, Governor Mohammed remains a key figure in efforts to stabilise the PDP and strengthen internal democracy within the party.

He noted that the governor’s political strength has been demonstrated in his electoral victories over the PRP in previous contests.

The government maintained that Bauchi has continued to record progress under Mohammed’s administration, citing gains in empowerment, infrastructure, rural development, urban renewal and tourism.

It also criticised the PRP’s stance, saying the party had failed to appreciate ongoing reforms, including the restructuring of traditional institutions and transfer of certain powers aimed at improving governance.

Gidado urged residents to remain watchful and not be swayed by “habitual criticism” from political actors seeking relevance.

He added that although the governor, like every Nigerian, has the constitutional right to freely associate and determine his political future, any such decision would not be influenced by “falsehood or malicious propaganda.”

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Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on Wednesday, warned that Nigeria faces one of its gravest internal threats as mutual trust between major religious groups continues to deteriorate at a disturbing pace.

Akume, who spoke at the second triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, said recent tensions had “almost ebbed into religious conflict” in the last few months.

According to him, Nigeria is navigating “one of its most delicate periods,” driven by heightened political rhetoric, deepening insecurity and widening suspicion among communities.

The SGF cautioned that unless urgent efforts are made to mend fractured relationships, the nation could slip into a crisis that may be exploited by criminal and extremist networks.

Citing violent incidents in Benue, Kwara, Kebbi, Niger and Zamfara states, Akume said the rising insecurity had amplified public fear. But he warned against the temptation to frame the violence in religious terms.

He said: “Truth be told, this is a critical time in our nation’s history. From previous incidents in Yelewata in Benue, to recent ones in Eruku in Kwara State, to others that occurred in different parts of Kebbi, Niger and Zamfara States, the nation has painfully endured.

“However, the most worrisome part, which we expect NIREC to address, is the erosion of mutual trust among adherents of different faiths, as reflected in views expressed and the tone of such rhetoric.”

Akume added that the task before religious leaders is not to trade blame but to restore the nation’s fragile unity.

“The point is not to engage in a scorecard of pain, but to underscore that violence in Nigeria is not monolithic. Both major faith groups bleed when any Nigerian is killed,” he said.

His comments come amid growing debate, especially in the U.S. Congress, over allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, following a recent fact-finding mission by American lawmakers.

The Federal Government has repeatedly rejected the claims, maintaining that while insecurity persists, no religious group is targeted.

Akume conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s appreciation for NIREC’s peacebuilding efforts and reaffirmed the administration’s support for non-kinetic security interventions.

He also disclosed that the President had set up a U.S., Nigeria Joint Working Group on Security, with NIREC expected to play a significant role.

On Nigeria’s recent designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the U.S., the SGF said stronger domestic engagement was required to correct false narratives and reinforce the nation’s commitment to religious freedom.

Co-chair of NIREC and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, called for sincere dialogue, saying no amount of force could guarantee lasting peace without honesty and mutual respect.

Challenging religious leaders to self-reflect, the Sultan said: “We sit down and say so many good things to one another, knowing God owns everything. Yet, when we go out, away from our comfort zone, we begin to say negative things about one another. Are we really honest with ourselves?

“God doesn’t make mistakes. He created us into tribes and nations so we could understand one another… When we close the session, we should speak honestly and sincerely, without mixing words. We must be very blunt.”

He stressed that interfaith cooperation does not require compromising core beliefs.

“You won’t tell me to abandon my faith because of NIREC. I won’t change it, no matter what. And I would never try to change your faith as a Christian, never,” he declared.

Meanwhile, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, commended the Tinubu administration’s steps to improve security, noting that religious institutions remain indispensable in stabilising the country.

He said faith-based organisations possess the moral authority and community reach needed to rebuild trust.

“Faith-based organisations hold immense potential for strengthening security and sustaining peace. Because of their deep community roots, moral authority and trusted presence, they are natural bridges to the hearts and minds of citizens,” Okoh said.

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]

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The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has faulted the claims by “Some uninformed minds” that President Bola Tinubu was behind the myriad of crisis currently rocking the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), saying that Governor Seyi Makinde and a few others within the opposition party should be held responsible “as a result of their naivety, pride and insincerity”.

The PDP, which once dominated the political space in the country, is now becoming a shadow of itself as it continues to lose more members, including serving governors and lawmakers at both federal and state levels, to other political parties, especially the APC.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC regretted that the PDP failed Nigerians while in power for 16 years at the federal level and now that it was expected to be the major opposition platform in the country.

“As democrats, we are worried at the turn of events in the PDP since the umbrella party was dislodged from power at the centre in 2015, as it became evident that the only thing which united members of the party was the national cake.

“Things fell apart within the PDP immediately after the 2015 presidential election was decided in favour of the newly registered APC, and up till now, the centre could not hold as the former dominant party now faces imminent collapse and extinction.

“Meanwhile, political pundits and discerning minds who watched while the PDP decimated the socio-political and economic structures of the country between 1999 and 2015 would attribute the present travails of the umbrella party to the law of retribution.

“A particular leader of this same party boasted that they would be in power for at least 50 years, as this marked the height of power intoxication.

“Shortly after, power and money, which kept them going, disappeared, and minor crises were allowed to fester until the time of the 2023 general elections, when the worst happened.

“Rather than look inward for solutions, supposed elders and leaders within the PDP left everything to chance and paved the way for the likes of Gov. Makinde to take over the affairs of their party.

“Because he lacked capacity, experience and other traits required to lead a national party, Governor Makinde emerged as the final nemesis which consumed the PDP, as he is now the only governor belonging to the umbrella party in the whole of Southern Nigeria, with only three or four left in the North.

“We recall that Senator Bola Tinubu and other victims of the do-or-die politics of the Obasanjo era sacrificed a lot to keep the opposition movement afloat until 2015, and the same set of people cannot be blamed for the incompetence on the part of those in the opposition today.

“As a matter of fact, Gov. Makinde cannot deliver the PDP from its current comatose condition. If virtually all his governor colleagues can leave the party for him, questions should be asked about his mission and vision for the PDP, while President Tinubu should be allowed to focus on his job as the president of the country.” APC stated.

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