
The Ekiti State Police Command successfully rescued worshippers who were abducted during an attack on Christ Apostolic Church, Eda-Oniyo, on April 28. The rescue operation, announced by police spokesperson SP Sunday Abutu, involved a collaborative effort between the police, military, other security agencies, the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and the Ekiti State Government. The victims have been taken to a hospital for medical examination and treatment. Commissioner of Police Falade Adegoroye commended the security agencies for their professionalism and collaboration, and thanked Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his support, as well as residents for providing useful information. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the abduction. The worshippers were abducted by suspected gunmen who attacked an overnight church service, killing the presiding pastor and abducting 16 individuals, including women, children, and an elderly woman. The kidnappers initially demanded a ₦1bn ransom, later reduced to ₦50m. Despite reports of the community raising and paying ₦10.5m along with other items, the victims remained captive, leading to protests and a House of Representatives resolution for their rescue.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadDr. Vincent Olatunji, CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission NDPC, emphasized the critical role of data protection in national security and fostering public trust. He highlighted that a digital economy cannot thrive without trust, and organizations must demonstrate through their actions that they can be trusted with personal data. Olatunji noted that national security increasingly has a cyber dimension, making privacy, cybersecurity, and trust essential components. He also discussed the NDPC's approach to investigations, focusing on thorough evaluations and compliance rather than immediate punitive fines. The CEO mentioned ongoing efforts to protect citizens' data ahead of the 2027 elections, including working with the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC and engaging political parties and traditional institutions. He also addressed the Central Bank's data localization policy, explaining its potential to stimulate investment, create jobs, and reduce capital flight. Olatunji expressed his vision for privacy to become an integral part of daily life in Nigeria, fostering a culture of trust and confidence in the digital environment.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti stated that his defenders require no special instructions on how to manage Erling Haaland in the upcoming World Cup last-16 tie against Norway. Haaland, who has scored five goals in the tournament, will face Brazil's Gabriel Magalhaes, resuming their Premier League rivalry. Brazil's captain Marquinhos has also played against Haaland in the Champions League. Ancelotti emphasized that there is no specific "anti-Haaland plan" needed, as his players are familiar with the striker. Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who has faced Haaland while playing for Newcastle, highlighted the importance of preventing the ball from reaching Haaland's feet, especially with Lucas Paqueta out due to injury. The match is expected to be physically demanding due to an extreme heat warning in the region. Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team following their comeback win against Japan. He also mentioned that Raphinha, recovering from a thigh injury, might play a few minutes from the bench, and that Neymar and Vinicius Junior could feature together in the match.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu has launched N137 billion road rehabilitation projects in Borno State, aiming to boost trade, agricultural activities, and security operations. The projects involve the rehabilitation of the Bama–Banki Road and the Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road, which are critical for restoring trans-Saharan trade between Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon, previously disrupted by insurgency. Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu emphasized that improved roads enhance security by facilitating patrols and protecting citizens. The Dangote Group, led by President Alhaji Aliko Dangote, is executing these projects as part of 12 major road initiatives across Nigeria under the Federal Government’s Roads Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme. These projects, valued at approximately N3 trillion in total, are expected to open up the economy, support military operations, improve security, and attract investment. Minister of Works David Umahi stated that the projects, initially awarded in 2021 for N55 billion, were delayed by insecurity and are now valued at N70 billion for Bama–Banki Road and N67 billion for Dikwa–Gamboru–Ngala Road. The roads will utilize concrete pavement technology for durability and lower maintenance. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum highlighted the projects' importance for the state's recovery and economic expansion with neighboring countries.