Topic
Nigerian internal security
Timeline · newest first
St Winifred Girls Secondary School relocates students over security concerns
St Winifred Girls Secondary School in Ihugh, Benue State, relocated its students to four other Catholic schools across the state following a series of recurring hostel fires and security threats. The Catholic Diocese of Gboko, led by Bishop William Avenya, ordered the indefinite closure of the school along with a nearby hospital and parish after four fire incidents between October 2025 and October 2026. Despite previous assurances of security and reconstruction from local community leaders, the church determined that it could no longer guarantee the safety of its staff, students, and patients. Students are scheduled to resume classes at their new temporary placements on 23 October, supported by transferred school staff.
Nasarawa SDP coordinator killed after abduction in Doma
Baba Alhaji, a coordinator for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the Alagye Electoral Ward of Doma, Nasarawa State, was abducted and subsequently killed by suspected kidnappers. The death of the coordinator, also known as 'Young Money,' was confirmed by SDP governorship candidate and retired Inspector-General of Police, Muhammad Adamu, and family relative and Nasarawa State Students Association (NASSA) president, Danladi Ekpo. While the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown, Muhammad Adamu has publicly called on security agencies to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
15 killed in attack on convoy in Nigeria's Borno state
At least 15 individuals, including 10 Nigerian soldiers and five members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, were killed in Borno state after their patrol convoy struck a landmine and came under small-arms fire. The incident occurred on a road between Gamboru Ngala and the border with Cameroon when a pickup truck detonated an explosive device suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram. Following the explosion, gunmen attacked the remaining vehicles in the convoy, resulting in additional casualties and leaving six soldiers wounded. This marks the second significant strike against regional security forces in Borno state within one week.
NDLEA intercepts N6.98bn tramadol shipment at Lagos port
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) intercepted a shipment of 8,725 kilogrammes of powdered tramadol valued at N6.98 billion at Lagos's Apapa port, which had been misdeclared as maize starch upon arrival from India. Concurrent operations across Nigeria led to the seizure of 55 kilogrammes of Canadian Loud in Lagos, the destruction of a three-hectare cannabis farm in Ondo, and numerous arrests of individuals ranging in age from 22 to 85, including Elizabeth Chidera Kalu and Grace Ehimeka. These enforcement actions targeted diverse supply chains, including maritime imports, land-based transport, and local distribution hubs in urban areas like Idumota and Mushin.
Troops kill two suspected kidnappers and rescue victim in Kano
On October 11, Nigerian Army troops from the 3 Brigade, working with the Nigeria Police Force, the State Security Services, and local hunters, rescued kidnapping victim Kabiru Aliyu in Falgore Forest, Kano State. The operation followed Aliyu's abduction while he was returning from Yandoka Market in Kaduna State. During the rescue, troops killed two suspected kidnappers and recovered N10 million in ransom money, which was returned to the victim's family. While some gang members escaped, 3 Brigade Commander Brigadier-General Saka Jimoh praised the operation and reaffirmed the military's commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements in the region.
Man remanded in court for murder of girlfriend in Enugu State
Chibuike Okpara, 30, was remanded in a correctional facility by a magistrate’s court in Enugu State following the murder of his 27-year-old girlfriend, Chinyere Ugwu. The suspect was arrested on 19 September after neighbors discovered the victim’s body concealed in his apartment at Olympic Layout, Enugu, due to an offensive odor. Okpara confessed to killing the victim, a recent National Youth Service Corps graduate, following an argument regarding an HIV infection, though he also cited drug influence as a factor. The court has ordered the transmission of the case file to the Enugu State Attorney-General for legal advice.
Police arrest 67 suspected Vikings cultists at anniversary celebration
Police in Delta State arrested 95 suspected members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity during coordinated operations across Asaba, Ika South, Ughelli South, and Okpe local government areas. The largest arrest occurred at an Asaba hotel, where 67 individuals were apprehended while allegedly celebrating a cult anniversary, leading to the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and insignia. Commissioner of Police Samuel Erale ordered an intensified crackdown on cult activities following these events, which occurred amid heightened scrutiny of regional gang influence. This scrutiny includes a separate ongoing investigation in Rivers State regarding allegations that suspected cultists were involved in the renovation of a police facility.
Gunmen kill four vigilantes in Plateau community
On Friday at approximately 11:56 p.m., unidentified gunmen killed four vigilantes in Shurum village, located in the Dorowa Babuje District of Plateau State’s Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. Community member Bulus Bature and Rwang Tengwong of the Berom Youth Moulders Association confirmed that the victims were targeted while performing their voluntary duties to protect the community. This incident follows a series of recent attacks in Plateau State, prompting calls for government and security agencies to strengthen protections for residents.
Two police officers killed in attack on Abia police station
On Saturday at 2:26 a.m., gunmen attacked a divisional police headquarters in the Urratta-Eziukwu area of Aba, Abia State, resulting in the deaths of two senior police officers and injuries to three inspectors. The attackers utilized improvised explosive devices to damage the facility, a police van, a power generator, and a Toyota vehicle, though police reported that no firearms or ammunition were stolen. Commissioner of Police Wilfred Afolabi led a tactical team to the site to restore calm and initiate an investigation into the perpetrators. While the South-east region had seen a 50 percent reduction in such attacks following the 2025 imprisonment of Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa, this incident marks the first notable strike on a police facility in the state in a significant period.
Nigerian Army explains arrest of journalist Lawrence Zongo
On 5 October, the Nigerian Army arrested journalist and Amnesty International volunteer Lawrence Zongo at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Plateau State, after he entered a military medical facility wearing Meta smart glasses. The military stated the arrest resulted from his unauthorized access to a restricted installation and security concerns regarding the recording capabilities of his eyewear. While Amnesty International criticized the detention as arbitrary and incommunicado, Zongo was eventually released following interventions by local youth leaders Dalyop Mwantiri and Ezekiel Bini. The incident sparked disputes over the legal basis for his detention and the military's authority to hold civilians without charge or access to legal counsel.
Oyo Police Rescue Baby Sold for US$1,500
On October 17, 2026, the Oyo State Police Command in Nigeria announced the rescue of a one-month-old infant who was allegedly sold for ₦2 million (approximately US$1,500). The investigation began after a complaint was filed by Mary Amos on October 15 regarding the disappearance of her daughter, 23-year-old Cecilia Amos, and the newborn. Police subsequently arrested Cecilia Amos and Dr. Adeleke Ebenezer, the owner of a health facility in the Ido Local Government Area, on allegations that they facilitated the sale of the child. Authorities continue to seek a third suspect, Odunayo Folawewo, who is the alleged buyer, while a fourth individual, Hassan Oludunni, remains named in the police account of the incident.
Aircraft loses door mid-air, makes emergency landing in Abuja
On Thursday, a Triton Aviation CL60 aircraft (registration T7-SEI) made an emergency landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja after a door detached mid-air shortly after takeoff. The crew issued a distress call at 4:20 p.m. UTC while climbing at 3,000 feet, leading air traffic control to clear the aircraft to return to Runway 22, where it landed safely at 4:34 p.m. UTC. While social media reports suggested local farmers discovered the missing door in the Abuja area, officials have not yet independently verified these claims or established the cause of the detachment.
Families wait for answers after Nigerian military plane crash
On October 5, a Nigerian Air Force plane carrying 19 military personnel and six civilians crashed in a remote, swampy area of southwest Nigeria while traveling from Benin City to Lagos. President Bola Tinubu ordered an investigation into the incident, but families of the 25 victims reported receiving little information regarding the cause of the crash or the status of recovery efforts. The Nigerian Air Force stated the aircraft was on a routine mission before losing radar contact, following an earlier stop in Benin City due to a mechanical fault. This event is the latest in a series of at least nine Nigerian Air Force aviation accidents over the past five years that have resulted in over 30 deaths.
Catholic priest abducted in Ohimini, Benue State
On October 13, Father John Otache of St Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, was kidnapped by unidentified individuals while traveling along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Benue State, Nigeria. Both the police and the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo confirmed the abduction and indicated that rescue operations remain ongoing. This incident follows a separate recent decision by the Catholic Diocese of Gboko to close its institutions in Ihugh due to recurring arson, burglaries, and safety concerns for its personnel. While the specific motives for Father Otache’s abduction were not established, the events underscore rising security risks for Catholic clergy and property within Benue State.
Police remove DPO after station renovation by suspected cult group
The Rivers State Police Command removed the divisional police officer of the Abuloma Division and the officer overseeing its outpost following reports that a suspected cult group, identified as “Aro Bagger,” renovated the station. The action was triggered by a viral video showing police officers posing for photos with the group members during a handover ceremony tied to the group's October 15 “Humanitarian Day celebration.” Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju ordered a formal investigation to determine if the officers involved breached professional standards or compromised the force’s integrity by accepting assistance from a criminal entity.
Suspected bandit arrested after foiled ambush in Plateau
Security personnel from the Special Task Force, also known as Operation Enduring Peace, arrested one suspected bandit and recovered an AK-47 rifle following a foiled ambush in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State. The attack targeted Gyang Luka, a staff member of Eliztor Private School, and his son as they traveled by motorcycle along the Dorowa Babuje axis. The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM) commended the military response while noting that other suspects fled toward the Jong settlement in Ropp District. Additionally, the association raised concerns regarding a potentially AI-manipulated video circulating on social media that allegedly depicted a Berom militia preparing to attack Fulani communities.
Tinubu directs security agencies to rescue kidnapped victims
President Bola Tinubu directed Nigerian security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue kidnapped victims and eradicate terrorist and bandit camps. Minister of Defence Christopher Musa stated the directive followed a security meeting held at the State House to review national security and preparations for upcoming elections. The administration emphasized its commitment to a credible electoral process by tasking security forces with protecting voters and maintaining neutrality toward all political parties. Additionally, the government announced plans to bolster security capabilities through new equipment procurement, including aircraft, and salary increases for armed forces personnel.
Petrol tanker explosion causes casualties in Benin City
On Thursday at approximately 2 p.m., a petrol tanker fell and spilled fuel while attempting a U-turn near the Oluku Market in Benin City, Edo State. An inferno occurred after a leaking 25-litre jerry can attached to a motorcycle ignited near the spill, resulting in casualties, the destruction of nearby shops, and severe burns to victims. Emergency responders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, the police, and the fire service, cordoned off the area while the University of Benin Teaching Hospital admitted at least ten injured individuals and processed fatalities.
Police rescue 11-year-old girl in child trafficking investigation
Police in Ebonyi State rescued an 11-year-old girl who was allegedly abducted in May 2026 by a child trafficking syndicate. Following a months-long investigation, police arrested Nneka Ibekwe in Anambra on 6 October, who allegedly purchased the child for ₦4 million from Benedicta Umeh. Ibekwe claimed Umeh facilitated the transaction by misrepresenting the operation of an orphanage and collaboration with welfare officials.
Federal government begins new round of terrorism suspect trials in Abuja
The Nigerian federal government initiated a new round of mass trials for terrorism suspects in Abuja. These cases began on Thursday across eight separate courtrooms within the city's court complex.
Akpabio Claims Over 70% of Those Destabilizing Nigeria Are Foreigners
Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that over 70 percent of individuals destabilizing Nigeria's security are foreign nationals. This remark followed public criticism regarding his stance on a proposed bill to decriminalize attempted suicide, which critics claimed was biased against Muslims. Akpabio defended his position by asserting that terrorists do not represent any religion and clarified that his intent was to differentiate between mental health crises and intentional, sound-minded suicide attempts. He further characterized the backlash against him as politically motivated efforts to undermine his reputation ahead of upcoming legislative processes.
Police arrest four people for possession of human body parts in Kwara
Kwara State police arrested four men in two separate incidents on 8 October involving the possession of human body parts intended for alleged money-making rituals. Abu Jimoh and Ayo Jimoh were apprehended while allegedly exhuming graves in Omupo, while Kamalden Lukmon and AbdulGaniyu Ibrahim were arrested in Alapa with two suspected human hands. Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo stated the Omupo suspects identified a herbalist named Mukaila Bello as the buyer of the stolen heads, and the Alapa suspects alleged that a vigilante named Abdulrauf Apata provided them with the human hands.
Police report arrests and operations across ten Nigerian states
On October 15, the Nigeria Police Force reported operational updates across ten states, including the arrest of 24 suspected cultists in Anambra and the rescue of a 16-year-old abductee in Kaduna by police, military, and vigilantes. Authorities also intervened in various incidents involving armed kidnappers in Kebbi, migrant herders in Katsina, and violent altercations in Osun, Ekiti, and Jigawa. Additional operations included the recovery of a weapon in Kano, security details for former President Goodluck Jonathan in Akwa Ibom, and the detention of an officer in Ogun following a fatal shooting at a company facility. These operations collectively reflect a broad scope of law enforcement activity targeting kidnapping, cultism, and interpersonal violence.
Court reviews interrogation video in Arise TV journalist murder case
Judge Mohammed Idris of the FCT High Court in Abuja presided over the viewing of police interrogation footage involving 11 defendants accused of the September 2025 armed robbery and murder of Arise News journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu and security guard Barnabas Danlami. The video, presented by prosecution witness Assistant Superintendent of Police Douglas Ishaku, featured testimony from the first two defendants admitting to their involvement and detailing the logistics of the attack in Katampe. The defense requested that the playback be halted after 20 minutes to save time, leading the court to transition into the cross-examination of the witness regarding interrogation procedures. The 11 defendants, currently remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre, previously pleaded not guilty to nine counts of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and murder.
Finnish court reduces Simon Ekpa’s prison sentence
The Court of Appeal in Finland reduced the prison sentence of Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa from six years to four years. The court upheld the previous conviction by the Päijät-Häme District Court regarding terrorism-related charges and aggravated tax fraud. Mr. Ekpa had appealed the initial sentence handed down by the district court last year.
Cameroon establishes new army camps near Lake Chad
Cameroon’s Defence Minister Joseph Assomo announced the creation of a Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) Lake Chad military unit, establishing new bases at Hilé-Alifa and Bargaram. This move responded to increased jihadist violence by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’tu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) factions, which caused over 11,300 residents to flee from locations including Darak, Bargaram, and Hilé-Alifa. The new force aims to secure the region, disrupt militant logistical networks, and shorten response times to attacks, adding 1,000 personnel to existing military efforts that include the Multinational Joint Task Force.
Igbokoda communities petition Nigerian president over military plane crash
Communities in Igbokoda, Ondo State, petitioned President Bola Tinubu regarding environmental and health concerns following the 5 October crash of a Nigeria Air Force ATR-42 aircraft into a local swamp. The petition, signed by the Olu of Igbokoda, Afolabi Odidiomo, highlighted that search and rescue efforts failed to recover the bodies of all 25 victims and raised alarms over potential aviation fuel leakage and water contamination. The Ondo State Government responded by ordering the fumigation of the water and the provision of clean water and health kits to residents. The communities requested a formal environmental assessment to determine the safety of the water and aquatic life, which serve as primary sources of livelihood for the local population.
Suspected Boko Haram fighters kill 10 soldiers in Nigeria army base attack
Suspected Boko Haram fighters launched a coordinated assault on an army base in the Guzamala local government area of Borno state, Nigeria, on Tuesday night. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 10 soldiers, five civilians, and one forest guard, while leaving over 20 soldiers wounded and damaging military vehicles. Prior to the base assault, fighters seized more than 40 fishing boats from the nearby village of Tumbun Barebari. This incident occurred amidst an intensification of attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in northeastern Nigeria.
Traditional ruler killed by gunmen in Plateau State
On 12 October, gunmen attacked and killed Jatau Samkwar, the Mishkaham Bokkos, at his residence in Daffo, Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State. While the Mwaghavul Traditional Council identified the perpetrators as Fulani militias, their identities remained independently unverified. The incident occurred shortly after the abduction and subsequent release of the monarch’s son and coincided with a separate attack on three travelers in the same area, which resulted in two deaths and one injury.
Court convicts 19 in Kebbi for terrorism, firearms, and theft
The Federal High Court in Birnin Kebbi convicted 19 individuals on charges ranging from terrorism and illegal firearms possession to electricity cable vandalism following a 17-month investigation by the Kebbi State Police Command. Justice Emmanuel Gakko sentenced Aliyu Hadari and Umar Uzzi to 15 years each for terrorism-related offences, while 11 others received prison terms for illegal possession of 11 recovered firearms, including a Chinese national, Ripin Liu. Additionally, six individuals were imprisoned for vandalizing electricity infrastructure in Sakaba Local Government Area, which the police stated disrupted power supplies to local communities.
Know where. Know why.