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Zelensky Proposes Face-To-Face Talks In Open Letter To Putin

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to hold direct face-to-face talks aimed at ending more than four years of war, issuing a rare open letter that combines a call for peace negotiations with a warning that Ukraine is prepared to continue fighting if diplomacy fails.

The letter, published on June 4 and addressed directly to the Kremlin leader, marks one of the few times Zelensky has publicly appealed to Putin since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In the message, Zelensky proposed a personal meeting in a neutral country and urged Putin to seize what he described as an opportunity to end the conflict.

“Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us — and you. I am proposing a meeting,” Zelensky wrote, adding that Ukraine would be prepared to observe a full ceasefire for the duration of negotiations. He suggested potential venues including Switzerland, Turkey or Arab states that could serve as neutral hosts for the talks.

The Ukrainian leader also proposed an “all-for-all” prisoner exchange and the return of civilians and children taken from occupied territories as confidence-building measures that could accompany negotiations. He argued that meaningful progress toward peace can only be achieved through direct engagement between the two leaders.

In the letter, Zelensky contended that Russia is facing growing domestic pressures from the prolonged war, including economic strain, inflation, fuel shortages and the impact of increasingly frequent Ukrainian drone and missile strikes. He suggested that many Russians are becoming weary of the conflict and would welcome a diplomatic resolution.

The appeal comes at a time when international diplomatic efforts to end the war have largely stalled. Previous rounds of negotiations in Istanbul, Geneva and Abu Dhabi failed to produce breakthroughs on key issues such as territory, security guarantees and the future status of occupied regions. U.S.-backed mediation efforts have also slowed as Washington’s attention has increasingly shifted toward tensions in the Middle East.

The Kremlin confirmed that Putin had received and been briefed on the letter. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the Russian president had reviewed the proposal and was expected to address it publicly. However, Moscow gave no indication that it was prepared to accept Zelensky’s offer on the terms proposed by Kyiv.

While acknowledging the possibility of diplomacy, Putin has continued to maintain a hardline position regarding Russia’s war aims. Speaking at an economic forum in St. Petersburg, the Russian leader said Russian forces were continuing to advance along the front line and reiterated Moscow’s demands regarding territory and security arrangements.

The proposal received a cautiously positive response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who said a face-to-face meeting between Putin and Zelensky would be “great” but stressed that both sides would need to make compromises to reach a settlement.

The open letter was published amid escalating military activity on both sides. Ukraine has recently intensified long-range drone attacks against targets inside Russia, while Moscow has responded with some of the largest missile and drone barrages of the war against Ukrainian cities. The continuing violence has underscored the challenges facing any diplomatic initiative.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the proposal, analysts say the letter represents Zelensky’s most direct public effort in years to engage Putin personally. Whether it leads to substantive negotiations remains unclear, but it has injected new diplomatic momentum into a conflict that has shown few signs of ending.

For now, Kyiv says it is ready for talks, while Moscow continues to insist that any settlement must address what it calls the “root causes” of the war. With fighting continuing across the front lines and diplomatic positions still far apart, the prospect of a breakthrough remains uncertain, but Zelensky’s public appeal has placed renewed focus on the possibility of direct leader-to-leader negotiations.

Security Tightened Around Aso Rock As Sowore Leads Protest Over Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren

By
Enyosa Favour
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Security was significantly reinforced around the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday as activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, led a protest demanding the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.

A combined team of anti-riot police officers, military personnel, and other security agencies mounted checkpoints around the State House and the Three-Arms Zone, restricting access to only individuals with valid State House identification.

Security operatives were stationed at major entry points from as early as 8 a.m., conducting thorough vehicle inspections and turning back unauthorised persons. The heightened security presence led to traffic congestion in several parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

The development followed Sowore’s earlier warning to President Bola Tinubu, in which he vowed to lead a march to the Presidential Villa if the abducted pupils and teachers from Oyo State were not rescued.

“We’ll march to Aso Villa on Thursday if abducted Oyo pupils are not rescued.”

Sowore had called on the Federal Government to secure the release of the 46 teachers and pupils kidnapped on May 15 from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The former presidential candidate criticised the Tinubu administration over what he described as its failure to tackle growing insecurity across the country.

“You can’t claim to be president, not doing your job.”

According to Sowore, the government has not done enough to protect citizens amid the increasing wave of kidnappings and violent attacks nationwide.

The abduction of the Oyo schoolchildren has generated widespread concern, prompting nationwide protests by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT). Sowore joined residents and teachers who have continued to demand urgent government intervention.

“This is not about hype or social media grandstanding. This is about the life of children,” Sowore said while defending the demonstration against claims that it was politically motivated.

The protest comes amid rising public frustration over insecurity, with many Nigerians calling for stronger measures to safeguard schools and communities.

For the second time, protesters under the banner of the AAC and allied groups marched through major parts of Abuja, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of abducted pupils and teachers.

The demonstrators moved from Eagle Square through key roads including Shehu Shagari Way, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, and Aminu Kano Way, carrying placards with messages such as:

“Release our children and teachers unconditionally,”

“Teachers deserve security, not fear,”

“End the reign of fear in our schools,”

“Tinubu, rescue the children,” and

“School should be a sanctuary, not a crime scene.”

Addressing the protesters, Sowore challenged President Tinubu to either ensure the safe return of the victims or take responsibility for failing to protect Nigerians.

“You cannot claim to be president of Nigeria and then refuse to do the job of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. We are not here to beg anybody. We are just asking people who claim they are elected to protect Nigerians to do their work.”

He also criticised the large deployment of security personnel to monitor the protest, arguing that similar resources should be directed toward protecting schools and communities.

“Your children are also in schools. If the school becomes a ground for kidnapping, one day your children too will be kidnapped.”

The demonstration was sparked by the May 15, 2026 attack on schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, where about 39 students and seven teachers were abducted from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.

On the same day, another 42 pupils were reportedly kidnapped from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba, Borno State.

In response to the Oyo incident, the Federal Government recently dispatched a high-level delegation led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila to the affected communities. The delegation also included the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Chief of Defence Staff.

President Tinubu has additionally approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and the deployment of a specialised rescue unit to strengthen efforts aimed at tackling kidnappings and improving security in vulnerable areas.

US Raises Pressure On Cuba As It Sanctions President Díaz-Canel

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The United States has intensified its pressure campaign against Cuba by imposing sanctions on President Miguel Díaz-Canel and several members of the country’s political elite, marking one of the most significant actions taken by Washington against Havana’s leadership in recent years. The move comes as the Trump administration expands efforts to isolate Cuba’s communist government amid a worsening economic crisis on the island.

The sanctions, announced by the U.S. Treasury Department on June 4, target Díaz-Canel, his wife Lis Cuesta Peraza, members of the Castro family, and several government-linked entities, including Cuba’s Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces. The measures freeze any assets under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit Americans from conducting business with those designated.

The action represents the latest step in a broader U.S. strategy aimed at increasing economic and political pressure on Cuba’s leadership. In recent weeks, Washington has sanctioned additional Cuban officials, tightened restrictions on commerce with the island and expanded measures targeting military-controlled sectors of the Cuban economy.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Donald Trump said the United States wants Cuba to become “a nicely run country,” while administration officials signaled that further measures could follow if Havana does not implement political and economic reforms.

Cuba reacted angrily to the announcement. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez condemned the sanctions as “despicable” and accused Washington of pursuing interventionist policies designed to create confrontation between the two countries. He insisted that U.S. pressure would not succeed in destabilizing the Cuban government.

The sanctions come at a particularly difficult moment for Cuba, which is grappling with severe fuel shortages, frequent power outages, food scarcity and declining tourism revenues. The island’s economic troubles have deepened as U.S. restrictions have discouraged foreign investment and complicated international trade.

Earlier this week, Cuba’s central bank announced that Visa and Mastercard transactions would be suspended beginning June 6 after a foreign financial partner curtailed services in response to expanded U.S. sanctions. Officials warned that the decision would further hinder tourism and international commerce.

The Trump administration has also targeted GAESA, the military-run conglomerate that controls large portions of Cuba’s tourism, logistics and financial sectors. Washington accuses the organization of channeling profits to the military and political elite, while Cuban authorities argue that GAESA plays a vital role in supporting the country’s economy.

The tightening sanctions regime has already prompted several international companies to scale back operations in Cuba. Reuters reported that hotel operators and shipping firms have reduced or suspended business activities on the island amid concerns about exposure to U.S. penalties.

The latest measures also coincide with broader tensions in U.S.-Cuba relations. Earlier this year, Washington expanded restrictions on oil shipments to Cuba and increased pressure on foreign companies doing business with the island. The two countries have nevertheless maintained limited diplomatic contacts, with Díaz-Canel acknowledging in March that discussions with U.S. officials had taken place regarding Cuba’s energy crisis and economic difficulties.

Díaz-Canel, who succeeded Raúl Castro as president in 2018, has repeatedly accused the United States of attempting to undermine Cuba’s sovereignty through economic coercion. The Cuban government maintains that the decades-old U.S. embargo remains the principal cause of the country’s economic hardships, while Washington argues that Cuba’s centralized political and economic system is responsible for the crisis.

Analysts say the new sanctions are likely to further strain already tense relations between the two countries and could increase economic pressure on Cuba at a time when the island is facing one of its most severe economic challenges in decades. Whether the measures succeed in changing Havana’s policies remains uncertain, but they underscore Washington’s determination to maintain a hardline approach toward Cuba’s leadership.

Chinese President Headed To North Korea In Bid To Shore Up Ties

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to travel to North Korea next week for his first visit to the country in nearly seven years, in a move widely viewed as an effort by Beijing to strengthen ties with its longtime ally and reassert its influence over Pyongyang amid North Korea’s deepening relationship with Russia.

China’s Foreign Ministry announced that Xi will undertake a two-day state visit beginning June 8, during which he will hold talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Chinese officials said the visit aims to promote the development of bilateral relations and address issues of mutual concern, including regional security and economic cooperation.

The trip will be Xi’s first visit to North Korea since June 2019 and his first overseas journey of 2026. Analysts say the timing reflects Beijing’s desire to reinforce its role as Pyongyang’s principal strategic partner after several years in which North Korea expanded military and political cooperation with Russia.

Relations between China and North Korea cooled during the COVID-19 pandemic as border closures and travel restrictions sharply reduced diplomatic exchanges and trade. However, recent months have seen renewed engagement, including the resumption of passenger rail services between Beijing and Pyongyang and the restoration of some commercial flights between the two capitals.

Xi’s visit comes against a backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics in Northeast Asia. North Korea has moved closer to Russia since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, supplying Moscow with weapons and military support while receiving economic and political backing in return. Beijing is believed to be seeking to ensure that its influence over Pyongyang is not eclipsed by Moscow’s growing presence.

“The message from China is that it remains the principal actor when it comes to North Korea,” said John Delury, a senior fellow at the Asia Society, according to Reuters. Analysts note that one audience for the visit may be Russia, which has emerged as a key partner for Kim’s government in recent years.

The visit follows a busy period of diplomacy for Xi, who recently hosted both U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing. Observers say the North Korea trip demonstrates China’s intention to remain a central player in regional security issues despite intensifying competition among major powers.

The announcement also comes just days after Kim Jong Un called for an “exponential” expansion of North Korea’s nuclear arsenal during a visit to a newly operational nuclear-material production facility. State media reported that Kim instructed officials to significantly increase production of weapons-grade nuclear material, arguing that the country faces growing security threats.

Some experts believe the timing of Kim’s nuclear remarks was deliberate and linked to Xi’s upcoming visit. By emphasizing North Korea’s commitment to expanding its nuclear capabilities, Pyongyang may be seeking to strengthen its negotiating position ahead of discussions with Beijing and any future engagement with Washington.

China and North Korea remain bound by a 65-year-old treaty of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance, which includes provisions for mutual support in the event of external aggression. While Beijing has often expressed concern about North Korea’s nuclear activities, it continues to view stability on the Korean Peninsula as a critical strategic interest.

South Korea has sought to downplay broader geopolitical implications of the visit, describing it as a bilateral matter. Nevertheless, regional governments and international observers will be closely watching the summit for signs of how Beijing intends to balance its relations with Pyongyang, Moscow and Washington amid rising tensions across Northeast Asia.

With North Korea advancing its nuclear program, Russia expanding its influence in the region and competition between China and the United States intensifying, Xi’s visit is expected to be one of the most closely watched diplomatic events in Asia this year.

Court Orders Sowore To Begin Defence In Alleged Defamation Case Involving Tinubu

By
Enyosa Favour
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A Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, to begin presenting his defence in the ongoing criminal defamation case filed against him over alleged remarks about President Bola Tinubu.

Justice Mohammed Umar gave the order after rejecting a request by Sowore’s lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, to postpone further proceedings until after the court’s annual vacation.

The judge ruled that hearing in the matter would continue on a daily basis, starting Friday, June 5, when Sowore is expected to formally open his defence.

Sowore, who is also an online publisher, is facing prosecution by the Department of State Services (DSS) over allegations that he falsely described President Tinubu as “a criminal” in posts published on his X and Facebook accounts.

During Thursday’s proceedings, the prosecuting counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), informed the court that the matter was scheduled for June 4 to receive the response of the Chief Judge to a letter written by Sowore on May 19, 2026, seeking the reassignment of the case to another judge.

Kehinde told the court that he was served with the Chief Judge’s response on May 26. The letter, dated May 22, reportedly declined Sowore’s request and directed that the trial should proceed before the current judge.

Following this, the prosecution asked the court to order the defendant to commence his defence.

In response, Abubakar argued that part of the Chief Judge’s reply suggested that the defendant could file a formal application, which should then be heard in open court.

He further requested that the matter be adjourned until after the court vacation, citing Sowore’s intention to focus on preparations for the next presidential election.

However, Kehinde challenged that interpretation, insisting that the Chief Judge’s response did not direct the defendant to file any application for recusal.

“The letter from the Chief Judge of this court did not ask the defendant or his counsel to file an application for recusal. So, it is disingenuous for counsel to read into the letter an interpretation that the Chief Judge did not include in the letter,” Kehinde said.

Following arguments from both parties, Justice Umar reviewed the Chief Judge’s letter and agreed with the prosecution’s position.

“From the content of the letter, there is nowhere the defendant is asked to file an application before this court.

“This court is not denying the defendant the right to file any application. This can be done anytime before judgment,” Justice Umar said.

The judge noted that the matter had reached the stage where the defendant was required to present his case and subsequently directed Sowore to enter his defence.

Justice Umar also ordered that the proceedings continue on a day-to-day basis in accordance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

Despite the ruling, Sowore’s counsel again sought an adjournment until after the court vacation. The request was opposed by the prosecution, which maintained that the law required the defence to proceed immediately.

“The law is that the defendant shall proceed with his defence. There is no option. We are ready. There is no room for dilatory practice for a defendant facing a criminal trial,” Kehinde said.

He added that “the option left at this point is for the defence to continue or simply be foreclosed. It is either they continue, or they are foreclosed”.

The court subsequently adjourned the case until June 5, 2026, for Sowore to begin presenting his defence.

South African Rand Holds Steady As Markets Assess New U.S. Tariff Proposal And Gulf Ceasefire

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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The South African rand remained largely unchanged against the U.S. dollar on Thursday as investors evaluated a new U.S. tariff proposal tied to forced labour concerns while also monitoring developments in the Middle East.

The currency traded at 16.3225 rand per dollar in early trading, remaining close to its previous closing level as market participants weighed the potential impact of Washington’s latest trade measures.

South Africa’s Trade Ministry responded after the United States proposed tariffs on imports from around 60 countries, including South Africa, citing concerns related to forced labour. The ministry maintained that the country complies with both domestic and international labour obligations.

Analysts noted that while the proposed 12.5% tariff would be a negative development for South Africa, it is significantly lower than the previously threatened 30% tariff announced earlier this year, offering some relief to investors.

The proposal follows a Section 301 investigation into alleged unfair trade practices as the Trump administration seeks alternative measures after emergency tariffs were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in February.

With limited domestic economic data driving markets, the rand continued to take direction from global developments. Investors also kept a close watch on the Middle East after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire, raising hopes for a broader diplomatic breakthrough involving Iran and reducing fears of prolonged disruptions to global energy supplies.

Meanwhile, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a resolution aimed at preventing President Donald Trump from continuing military operations against Iran. The move reflects growing concern among lawmakers about the conflict, which has now lasted for several months.

On South Africa’s stock market, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s Top-40 index traded flat in early dealings, while the country’s benchmark 2035 government bond weakened slightly, pushing its yield up to 8.525%.

Market analysts say investor sentiment will likely remain sensitive to both international trade developments and geopolitical events as uncertainty continues to influence global financial markets.

Poland Score Late Equaliser, Hold Nigeria To 2-2 Draw In Friendly

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Nigeria’s Super Eagles were denied victory in heartbreaking fashion after Poland scored deep into stoppage time to secure a 2-2 draw in an international friendly at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw on Wednesday night.

The Super Eagles made a bright start and took the lead in the 23rd minute through Terem Moffi, who finished off a well-worked attacking move to put Eric Chelle’s side ahead. Nigeria looked comfortable for long periods of the first half before Poland responded just before the break, with Kacper Potulski finding the equaliser in first-half stoppage time to make it 1-1.

Chelle made several changes at the start of the second half, introducing fresh legs as Nigeria searched for a winning goal. The Super Eagles regained control of the contest and were rewarded in the 77th minute when substitute Paul Onuachu converted from the penalty spot to restore Nigeria’s lead.

With victory seemingly secured, Nigeria’s defence was caught out in the dying moments of the match. In the fifth minute of added time, Przemysław Wiśniewski struck a dramatic late equaliser to rescue a draw for the hosts and break Nigerian hearts.

The result extends Nigeria’s unbeaten run under head coach Eric Chelle and continues a positive spell for the Super Eagles following their recent success in the Unity Cup. Despite missing several key players, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, Nigeria showed resilience and quality against a strong Polish side led by veteran striker Robert Lewandowski.

The match also provided an opportunity for Chelle to assess new faces in his squad, with several players given valuable minutes as Nigeria continues preparations for upcoming international fixtures. Debutant Abdullahi Bewene was among the players handed an opportunity to impress on the international stage.

While the Super Eagles will be disappointed to have conceded so late, the performance offered plenty of positives as they continue building momentum ahead of future competitions. Nigeria’s next challenge will be another high-profile friendly against Portugal as preparations continue for upcoming international assignments.

Oil Prices Slip As Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Raises Hopes For Peace Deal

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Global oil prices fell on Thursday after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ceasefire, easing fears of further escalation in the Middle East and raising hopes for a broader agreement that could eventually reduce tensions involving Iran.

Brent crude dropped 77 cents, or 0.8%, to $97.03 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude fell 70 cents, or 0.7%, to $95.32. The decline followed a sharp rise of about 2% on Wednesday, when renewed hostilities in the region fueled concerns over oil supplies.

The ceasefire agreement announced by Israel and Lebanon has increased optimism that diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran could gain momentum. Iran has previously indicated that any progress in negotiations would depend partly on an end to Israeli military actions involving Lebanon and Hezbollah.

U.S. President Donald Trump also suggested that negotiations with Iran could see meaningful progress as early as this weekend. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said that while communication channels with Washington remain open, no major breakthrough has yet been achieved, with both sides still reviewing exchanged proposals.

Despite the decline in prices, analysts say the market remains cautious. Ongoing concerns about disruptions to shipping routes and energy supplies continue to support oil prices.

Adding to supply concerns, U.S. crude inventories fell by 8 million barrels to 433.7 million barrels in the week ending May 29, according to data from the Energy Information Administration. The drop was significantly larger than the 4 million barrel decline analysts had expected, suggesting stronger demand or tighter supplies.

Meanwhile, weaker demand from China has helped limit further gains in oil prices. Traders reported that Iranian crude has slipped into discounted territory for the first time since April, while Russian oil exporters have reduced prices in an effort to attract Chinese buyers amid slowing demand.

As investors closely monitor developments in the Middle East, oil markets remain sensitive to both geopolitical tensions and global demand trends, with future price movements likely to depend on the progress of regional peace efforts and supply conditions.

Somali Troops And Opposition Militias Clash Ahead Of Anti-Government Protests In Mogadishu

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Tensions escalated in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, as government forces and militias allied with opposition leaders exchanged heavy gunfire overnight and into Thursday morning, causing property damage and forcing residents to flee their homes.

The clashes erupted ahead of planned anti-government protests over President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s decision to remain in office after his term expired last month. The dispute stems from constitutional changes approved by parliament in March, which could allow the president to extend his tenure by one year and delay elections.

Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed accused government troops of surrounding and attacking his residence, describing the move as part of a broader effort to suppress opposition voices. He also criticized the government’s constitutional changes, which opposition figures argue are illegal.

Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire alleged that government forces deployed heavy weaponry, including anti-tank weapons and drones, in densely populated areas of the capital. He further accused the government of carrying out a sustained military assault aimed at opposition leaders. Reuters noted that it could not independently verify those claims.

Residents reported intense fighting in Mogadishu’s Howlwadag and Abdiasis districts, where thousands of government troops were said to have been deployed. Witnesses described mortar shells striking residential areas, injuring civilians and setting homes ablaze.

One resident said a mortar shell landed on a neighboring house, injuring a woman, while another large home nearby caught fire after being hit. He added that civilians were fleeing the violence with their children as the fighting continued.

Another witness reported that at least two armored vehicles were destroyed during the clashes by opposition-allied militias.

Somalia has faced decades of instability since the collapse of the central government in 1991 following the fall of former ruler Mohamed Siad Barre. The country also continues to battle a long-running insurgency by the al-Qaeda-linked militant group al-Shabaab.

The United States Embassy in Mogadishu condemned the violence, describing it as reckless and urging all political actors to preserve stability and settle their differences peacefully. The United Kingdom also called for restraint and dialogue, saying the violence was unacceptable.

As tensions remain high, concerns are growing that the political dispute could further destabilize the country at a time when it is already facing significant security challenges.

Seven Students Abducted By Bandits In Zamfara As Security Forces Launch Rescue Operation

By
Enyosa Favour
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Armed bandits have abducted seven students in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, prompting security agencies to launch a search-and-rescue operation.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday on the outskirts of the Low-Cost Area in Kaura Namoda, where the attackers reportedly invaded the students’ residences and took them to an undisclosed location.

According to the Zamfara State Police Command, the assailants struck at about 4:00 a.m., catching residents off guard before escaping with the victims.

The command disclosed that one of the kidnapped students managed to escape from captivity and has since been reunited with authorities.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said police tactical teams, alongside military personnel attached to Operation Fansar Yamma, were immediately deployed to the area after receiving reports of the attack.

However, the gunmen had already fled before security operatives arrived at the scene.

Abubakar explained that security agencies have intensified efforts to track down the kidnappers, rescue the remaining victims, and bring those responsible for the crime to justice.

The police spokesperson urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful and credible information that could aid ongoing operations.

The command reassured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to secure the safe release of the abducted students and promised to provide updates as the situation develops.

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