Atiku Abubakar condemns Oyo school abductions, criticizes government's response
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and their teachers in Oyo State, stating it reflects the country's worsening security situation. In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku highlighted the incident as evidence of the government's inability to effectively address insecurity. He criticized reports of officials distributing relief materials to affected families, arguing that such actions do not meet the immediate needs of parents whose children remain captive. Atiku emphasized that families require action and leadership to rescue their children and bring criminals to justice, not palliatives. The former vice president lamented the trend of inadequate responses to security challenges, noting that kidnappings profoundly impact families and communities. He described the distribution of rice as an "abdication of responsibility" and a "tragic confession of failure" by an overwhelmed administration. Atiku stressed that abducted children are not mere statistics but the hopes of families and the nation's future. He warned that persistent insecurity has created widespread fear, with Nigerians budgeting for ransom, fearing farms, highways, and the night. Atiku called on President Bola Tinubu to direct security and intelligence agencies to deploy all resources for the release of the abducted individuals. He urged the government to treat thes
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The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to address the ongoing violence between the Karinjo and Wurkun communities in the Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. This appeal follows a recent clash on May 29, 2026, which resulted in at least five deaths, injuries, and significant destruction of property. Mohammed Audu sponsored a motion highlighting the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation, noting that over 100 residents have been displaced from areas like Salakan, leaving them without access to basic necessities. The conflict has severely impacted the predominantly agrarian communities, with farms, crops, and livestock destroyed, leading to a loss of livelihood for many. Villages such as Mutun Daya, Bambur Zailani, Didango, Andami, and Mayo-Gauri are now filled with refugees. The House expressed concern that these recurring disputes, often linked to land ownership and resource access, threaten peace and stability, especially in areas already facing banditry. Lawmakers warned that without decisive action, the humanitarian crisis could worsen. They urged security agencies to restore peace, and the Federal Government and humanitarian agencies to provide emergency relief and support to affected communities, emphasizing the need for dialogue, increased security presence, and peace-building initiatives to address the root causes of the clashes.
Nigeria's Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, stated that Nigeria is well-positioned to become a leader in the global talent economy. This assertion was made in a statement by Teju Abisoye, National Coordinator of the National Talent Export Programme NATEP, marking one year since the agency's relaunch. Oduwole highlighted NATEP's efforts to develop the country's workforce and expand international service market opportunities through policy reforms, institutional developments, and strategic partnerships. She noted that the global economy is increasingly driven by knowledge, skills, and talent, creating opportunities for nations investing in human capital. Oduwole believes Africa, as an integrated marketplace, can be a leading contributor to the world's talent economy, with NATEP laying the groundwork for Nigeria to lead this transition. NATEP is developing an innovative financing framework combining public investment with private capital and has made progress with the National Coordination Mechanism for Services Exports NCMSE, approved in November 2025. The NCMSE has aligned government agencies and stakeholders, strengthening collaboration among institutions like the National Information Technology Development Agency and the Outsource To Nigeria Initiative. NATEP also launched the Nigeria Talent Accelerator Network with the World Economic Forum. Teju Abisoye reiterated NATEP's focus on positioning Nigeria as a premier global talent hub, aiming for o
Must ReadUS President Donald Trump confirmed a tense phone conversation with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which he reportedly used expletives. When asked about telling Netanyahu, "Are you f-ing crazy? What are you f-ing doing? I helped you stay out of jail," Trump responded, "I did." He added that he was "a little bit perturbed at his constantly faighting with Lebanon" and told him, "Bibi, we gotta stop this." Trump stated he has a "very good relationship" with Netanyahu and likes him "a lot." The tirade reportedly occurred over Israel's threats to bomb Beirut, which Trump feared would undermine talks with Tehran to end the war in the Middle East. This exchange highlights the strained relationship between the two leaders, whose attack on Iran in late February escalated into Israel striking Lebanon. Israeli media have disputed this account of the conversation. A White House official directed AFP to Trump's social media posts where he thanked Netanyahu for an agreement to withdraw troops from Beirut, as Iran had reportedly paused peace talks due to Israel's actions in Lebanon.
Benfica midfielder Christy Ucheibe and Al-Ittihad forward Francisca Ordega have joined the Super Falcons camp in Ikenne, Ogun State, for Nigeria’s upcoming two-legged friendly matches against Senegal. They arrived on Wednesday morning with Glory Ogbonna, Blessing Nkor, Comfort Erhabor, and Sikiratu Isah. Eight other players, including Joy Omewa, Tosin Demehin, Toni Payne, Blessing Ilivieda, Folashade Ijamilusi, Anderline Mgbechi, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, and Omorinsola Babajide, arrived on Tuesday evening. These new arrivals join early attendees Shukurat Oladipo, Kafayat Shittu, and six-time CAF Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, bringing the total number of players in camp to 17. The Super Falcons will play both matches against Senegal at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne. These friendlies are part of Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations WAFCON in Morocco, where they aim for an 11th WAFCON title and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. More players and officials are expected to join the camp.