The Click Report

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2026

Metro

Kwara Gov Receives 163 Rescued Kidnap Victims

Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has received 163 residents who were abducted from communities in the state and recently rescued by combined security forces. The victims were handed over to the governor by the Nigerian Army on Friday in Ilorin, the state capital. Speaking during the handover, Abdulrazaq congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the successful rescue operation and commended the security agencies involved for their collaboration, bravery and commitment to restoring peace and security across the state. The Kwara State Government had on Wednesday announced the release of residents abducted from Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area. The governor’s media aide, Olayinka Fafoluyi, announced the development in a Facebook post, praising the President, security forces and others involved in the operation. The victims were abducted on February 3 after armed assailants launched coordinated attacks on Woro, Nuku and other neighbouring communities in Kaiama LGA. The attacks reportedly claimed the lives of at least 75 people, displaced several residents and left the affected communities severely impacted. Although the exact number of people abducted was initially unclear, reports estimated that about 170 women, children and other residents were taken hostage during the attacks. In April, a video circulated on social media showing one of the abducted women appealing to the Kwara State Government to intensify efforts to secure their release.

Entertainment

‘Loan I took for my girlfriend almost destroyed me’ — Baami

Content creator Samuel Adegbeyi, popularly known as Baami, has recounted how a ₦30,000 loan he took to support his former girlfriend’s business eventually grew into more than ₦300,000 in debt and left him struggling financially and emotionally. Speaking about his journey, Baami said his difficult childhood experiences shaped his determination to succeed. His father died while he was in secondary school, after which he lived with relatives and neighbours who helped him continue his education. Although he initially wanted to become a chartered accountant, Baami began creating content in 2024 while in his final year of HND. He said his manager encouraged him to venture into content creation despite his initial reluctance to become publicly known. As his popularity grew, several skit makers began inviting him to feature in their content. He has since worked with personalities including Oluwadolarz, Nasboi, Shank and Cute Abiola. Baami said his financial struggles began while he was in a relationship. Wanting to support his girlfriend in starting a business, he borrowed about ₦30,000 from an online loan platform and added some of his savings before giving her the money. According to him, her attitude towards him changed after she received the money, while the short repayment period and accumulating interest pushed him into a cycle of debt. He said the initial ₦30,000 loan eventually rose to more than ₦300,000, forcing him to borrow from other loan platforms to repay the previous debts. For almost a year, Baami said he battled serious financial and emotional difficulties. At one point, he spent about four months mostly indoors and relied on a friend who provided food and cared for him. He described the period as one of the most difficult experiences of his life but said he eventually recovered and continued his education and content creation journey. Baami said TikTok became his first major source of income. His manager encouraged him to host regular live sessions, where viewers sent gifts that could be converted into money. He recalled receiving about ₦500,000 as his first major TikTok income. He later expanded to Facebook, where his first payout in January was about $200. The content creator currently has about 1.3 million followers on Facebook. His main TikTok account, which had about 1.4 million followers, was reportedly banned, leaving him to continue with a backup account. Baami said he has no specific content niche at the moment, explaining that he creates different types of content and portrays characters such as bosses, businessmen and mechanics. He also spoke about facing discrimination because of his physical condition, particularly during his school years. However, he said some people eventually changed their attitudes after discovering his abilities. He acknowledged that hurtful comments about his appearance sometimes affected him deeply and contributed to periods of depression, but said he chose to focus on self-improvement rather than dwell on the negativity. Baami said his experiences have influenced his outlook on life and that he believes the challenges he faced ultimately led him to content creation. He explained that the debt prevented him from returning to school at the time he had planned, but the delay allowed him to meet his manager and begin his career as a content creator. Although he studied for a qualification that could have led to a career in accounting, Baami said he currently has no plans to seek employment with his certificate because content creation is already providing for his needs. He said he hopes to expand his YouTube presence and eventually become a global content creator with an audience across different countries. On marriage, Baami said he remains open to settling down but wants to find someone who genuinely loves and supports him rather than being attracted to his money or fame. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that his content creation career would take him beyond Nigeria, saying he hopes to become a globally recognised creator within the next three to five years.

Elections, Politics

EFCC-Osun account dispute raises fresh questions over agency’s independence

President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to withdraw the court order freezing the Osun State Government’s bank account has sparked renewed debate over the independence of anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria. The controversy followed the President’s instruction on Thursday that the EFCC return to court and vacate the freezing order. Tinubu said that although the commission acted within its legal powers, the timing of the action, coming days before the August 15 governorship election, was inappropriate. The President said he was “deeply embarrassed” by the development, noting that actions taken by federal agencies are often attributed to his administration. The EFCC had earlier defended the account freeze as a routine action and denied any political motive. Its Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, said the commission had the legal authority to restrict an account for up to 72 hours without a court order, citing a similar action involving Edo State ahead of its 2024 governorship election. The President’s intervention has, however, triggered questions about whether the EFCC is truly independent of the executive. Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Oba Maduabuchi, argued that the President does not have the legal authority to direct the EFCC or the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in their operations. However, he said the President’s intervention could be considered understandable given concerns that the account freeze might be perceived as an attempt to influence the Osun election. Maduabuchi criticised the manner in which the directive was issued, arguing that it should have been handled through the Attorney-General rather than through a public presidential directive. He also questioned the decision to freeze the entire state account, saying the EFCC should instead focus on funds allegedly diverted to private companies. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) also questioned the President’s reference to a court order authorising the account freeze. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the EFCC had not previously mentioned obtaining such an order when defending its action. Abdullahi questioned whether the President had been misinformed about the existence of the order or whether the facts had been misrepresented, describing either possibility as troubling. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also criticised the account freeze, describing it as a threat to democracy. He argued that freezing a state government’s main operating account shortly before an election could disrupt salaries, essential services and governance. Atiku further warned that the selective use of anti-corruption agencies could undermine public confidence and create the perception that state institutions were being used to influence political outcomes. He also challenged Tinubu to apply the same authority to the ICPC over the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. According to Atiku, the President’s intervention in the Osun matter raises questions about the extent of executive influence over anti-corruption agencies and whether their independence is genuine. The controversy has therefore renewed broader concerns about the relationship between the presidency, anti-corruption agencies and the rule of law, particularly when their actions have potential political implications.

Entertainment, Music

‘I’d rather stay true to my sound than chase trends’ — Ladé

Nigerian singer Ladé has said she would rather focus on creating authentic and relatable music than constantly chase viral trends. Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, the “Adulthood Na Scam” singer acknowledged the pressure artistes face in an era where songs can quickly go viral on social media. According to her, however, virality is temporary, while building a lasting music career requires consistency, authenticity and a strong connection with fans. Ladé said, “I’d rather focus on making honest music that people can keep coming back to than chase trends all the time.” She advised emerging artistes to appreciate viral moments when they happen but warned against making them the sole measure of success. She encouraged them to continue improving their craft, remain authentic and build careers designed to last. Reflecting on how her understanding of adulthood has changed since the success of her hit song, “Adulthood Na Scam,” Ladé said she initially thought adulthood was mainly about paying bills. She said she later realised that adulthood comes with continuous responsibilities, challenges and lessons. The singer noted that every stage of life brings new responsibilities and versions of oneself, adding that the challenges may not necessarily become easier, but people become stronger and wiser in handling them. Ladé said she still considers adulthood overwhelming but has learnt to appreciate small victories, give herself grace and enjoy the journey.

Metro

25 children reportedly die in terrorists’ captivity — Lawmaker

A lawmaker in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Saidu Baba-Ahmed, has disclosed that 25 children were among the victims who reportedly died in terrorists’ captivity after being abducted from communities in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger states. Baba-Ahmed, who represents the Gwanabe/Gweria/Bani/Adena constituency of Kaiama Local Government Area, made the disclosure while speaking about the condition of victims recently freed after spending about six months in captivity. According to the lawmaker, 315 abductees regained their freedom on Thursday night, including 308 victims rescued from terrorist captivity in forests across Kwara and Niger states and seven students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, Ogun State. He said 25 children died either while in captivity or during transit, with their bodies reportedly buried in the forest. Baba-Ahmed also disclosed that 12 young men volunteered to join the terrorists’ ranks after their abductors asked which of the captives wanted to become part of their group. He said they were therefore not among those released. He further stated that 176 victims were abducted from Kwara State, with 163 subsequently regaining their freedom, while 15 remained missing. The lawmaker also revealed that two women who were pregnant when they were abducted returned with babies after their release. He said the rescued women were examined and were no longer pregnant. Following their release, the victims were taken to Ilorin, where 46 were receiving medical attention. The Kwara State Government was also providing care for them before they would be reunited with their families. The victims were abducted during the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. Armed terrorists reportedly invaded the community, killed several residents and abducted hundreds of people before taking them into the forest. After months of military and security operations, the victims were transported from Niger State to Ilorin late Thursday. Receiving the victims, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the Woro attack as tragic and regrettable. He commended President Bola Tinubu for his intervention and support towards securing the victims’ release. The governor also disclosed that the President had approved the establishment of five Army battalions in Omu-Aran, Patigi, Ilemona, Kosubosu and Kaiama to strengthen security across the state.

Entertainment, Music

P-Square’s brother Henry opens up on family feud: ‘I was their first sponsor, bodyguard’

Henry Okoye, the elder brother of music duo P-Square, has accused their former manager and brother, Jude Okoye, of contributing significantly to the long-running conflict within the family. Speaking in an interview with Nollyserve, Henry claimed that he and other family members supported Peter and Paul’s music career before Jude became involved in managing the group. According to him, the family initially struggled to secure sponsorship for the twins, prompting him to provide financial and logistical support. He said he travelled with them from one state to another, provided his car for promotional activities and even acted as their bodyguard. Henry also disputed claims that Jude was responsible for building P-Square’s career, alleging that their late mother had initially opposed the idea of Jude managing the group because of concerns about his character. He claimed that the relationship between the twins and other family members changed after Jude became involved in their management. Henry further alleged that he was promised 20 per cent of the money earned from each show in recognition of his early support, but said he never received the payment. He claimed Jude later questioned the basis of the arrangement. He also accused Jude of becoming distant from him and other members of the family. Henry said that when he was hospitalised for about two months, Peter and Paul contacted him, while Jude allegedly never called to check on his condition. He further claimed that their youngest sister was struggling in Lagos and alleged that other family members had failed to provide adequate support. Speaking about Paul Okoye, Henry said he was surprised by what he described as a change in the singer’s attitude towards the family. He alleged that Paul had previously been one of the kindest members of the family but suggested that Jude’s influence may have contributed to the change. On the possibility of Peter and Paul reuniting as P-Square, Henry said he would welcome a reconciliation but expressed doubts that it would happen, alleging that Jude’s influence had deepened divisions within the family. The latest claims come amid an escalating public dispute involving members of the Okoye family. Peter Okoye has previously accused Jude of financial misconduct and other wrongdoing, allegations Jude has disputed. Henry also maintained that he played a significant role in supporting the twins during the early stages of their music career, before Jude became their manager.

Foreign Affairs

Envoy: Nigerians still held in Saudi prisons after serving sentences due to unpaid fines

Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr Yakubu Gambo, has raised concerns over Nigerians who remain in Saudi prisons and detention centres despite completing their jail terms because they cannot afford to pay outstanding fines. Gambo disclosed this during a meeting with the Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja. According to the ambassador, the Nigerian Mission in Saudi Arabia is working to address the challenges faced by Nigerians in the Kingdom, particularly those in detention who are unable to return home after serving their sentences. He also revealed that the mission had asked Nigerian associations in Saudi Arabia to unite under a single umbrella to improve coordination and make it easier for the embassy to address issues affecting Nigerians in the country. Gambo stressed that Nigerians in Saudi Arabia should not be viewed mainly through the lens of criminal cases, noting that many have built successful careers and businesses in the Kingdom. He said Nigerian doctors, engineers, teachers, artisans and traders, as well as families who have lived in Saudi Arabia for decades, continue to make positive contributions to the country. Nigeria’s Consul General in Jeddah, Ambassador Muazam I.J. Nayaya, identified consular services as another major challenge. He said officials issue dozens of emergency travel certificates daily to Nigerians in detention who are seeking to return home. Responding, Dabiri-Erewa assured the delegation that NiDCOM would continue working with the Nigerian Mission to improve the welfare of Nigerians in Saudi Arabia. She also encouraged Nigerians in the Kingdom to register on NiDCOM’s Diaspora Data Mapping Portal to help the government improve planning and engagement with citizens abroad. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerians in Saudi Arabia while strengthening their contribution to Nigeria’s development.

Metro

Court orders X, user to pay law graduate N70m for defamation

The Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikorodu has ordered X, formerly known as Twitter, to disclose the identity of a user accused of manipulating and republishing a birthday post belonging to Nigerian law graduate, Esther Agboola. The court also awarded N20 million in damages against the unidentified user and imposed a conditional N50 million penalty on X Corp if it fails to comply with the disclosure order. In a judgment delivered on June 5, 2026, Justice Adeniyi Pokanu held that the alleged unauthorised manipulation and republication of Agboola’s post violated her constitutional right to privacy. Agboola, through her X account, @agirlnamed_esth, had shared photographs on January 9, 2026, to mark her 25th birthday with the caption, “Chapter 25. Happy Birthday to me!” She told the court that an anonymous X user, @_AbiolaPharays, retrieved an earlier birthday post she had made in January 2025 and altered its timestamp, allegedly creating a false impression about when the post was originally published. Justice Pokanu held that X Corp, as the platform’s owner and operator, had access to information and activity logs capable of identifying the anonymous account. The judge therefore ordered the company to file an affidavit disclosing the identity of the account holder. The court awarded Agboola N20 million in general damages for what it described as the mental anguish, emotional distress, harassment, reputational injury and humiliation allegedly caused by the user’s actions. It further ordered X Corp to pay N50 million if it fails, refuses or neglects to comply with the order to disclose the user’s identity. The case highlights the legal responsibilities of social media platforms in protecting users’ privacy and responding to court orders involving anonymous accounts.

Politics

Anything can happen in politics, says Fubara loyalist on joining Wike’s camp

A former staunch supporter of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Chijioke Ihunwo, has explained his decision to join the Rainbow Coalition aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Ihunwo said his decision was not a betrayal of Fubara but a response to the governor’s call for peace and political reconciliation in the state. Speaking on TVC’s Beyond the Headlines, Ihunwo said he remained loyal to Fubara and was simply following the governor’s directive to embrace peace and move forward. He said, “If we truly support him, we should join him in the Rainbow Coalition,” adding that his loyalty to the governor remained unchanged. Ihunwo, a former caretaker chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, had previously criticised Wike’s political camp and accused it of attempting to destabilise Rivers State. However, he said political alliances could change, noting that “in politics anything can happen.” He maintained that his current position was based on his principal’s instruction to sheathe their swords and work for peace. Addressing claims that he and other allies gave Fubara poor political advice during the Rivers crisis, Ihunwo rejected the allegation, saying he had a personal relationship with the governor and acted according to his convictions at the time. He also dismissed calls for him to apologise to Wike and other political figures over his actions during the crisis, and declined to revisit specific incidents, saying the focus should now be on peace and moving forward. Ihunwo said he would work with Wike’s supporters in Obio/Akpor ahead of the 2027 elections, following Fubara’s instructions to ensure the Rainbow Coalition succeeds in Rivers State. He further maintained that he had no regrets about his actions during the political crisis, insisting that his loyalty remained with Fubara and that he would continue to follow the governor’s directives.

Politics

Abuja court orders ex-DSS officer remanded in Kuje

The Federal High Court in Abuja has remanded a retired Department of State Services officer, Ihechimere Ezeakolam, at the Kuje Correctional Centre after he was arraigned on terrorism-related charges linked to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra. Ezeakolam was arraigned on Thursday before Justice Muhammed Umar on four counts bordering on alleged support for IPOB, membership of the organisation and the use of social media to promote its activities. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Following his plea, the prosecution requested a trial date and asked the court to remand the defendant pending the determination of the case. Justice Umar adjourned the matter until October 29, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that Ezeakolam remain in Kuje Correctional Centre. According to the prosecution, Ezeakolam allegedly supported IPOB between 2025 and 2026 by providing what it described as moral assistance and sharing messages online in support of the group. He was also accused of joining IPOB in Abia State during the same period. In another count, the prosecution alleged that he knowingly aided and encouraged the group by posting social media messages allegedly intended to persuade members of the public to support IPOB. The final charge accused him of posting and making available online messages allegedly aimed at advancing the activities of the proscribed organisation. The charges were brought under provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. The defendant has denied the allegations by pleading not guilty, and the case will proceed to trial on the scheduled date.