Connect with us

news

How drunken gang member shot dead 9 DSS officials at Arepo —Agbara robbery kingpin

Published

on

kingpin

LAGOS—Leader of the dreaded gang of bank robbers which had been terrorising commercial banks in Lagos and Ogun states in military uniforms has disclosed that his gang never intended to kill nine officials of the Department of State Service, DSS, who went missing last September.
The suspect, identified as Kelly Fotor, an Ijaw native of Arugbo, Ondo State, was arrested last Saturday by operatives of the Inspector General of Police Special Intelligence Response Team, SIRT, at a wedding ceremony in Sapele, Delta State.
Gun battle with Police and arrest
Vanguard gathered that the suspect, who was at the ceremony with some armed men, had a gun duel with the operatives which led to the killing of one of the policemen, while Fotor and three of his colleagues, were arrested with bullet wounds.
It was gathered that the SIRT operatives, led by CSP, Abba Kyari, who had been on the trail of the gang, trailed Fotor to the wedding ceremony after their last operation at Agbara area of Ogun State where they robbed a bank and left three persons, including a pregnant woman, dead.
Fotor, who sustained a bullet wound during the shootout, told Vanguard while he was being transported for treatment that he was the leader of the South South group of the gang.
He explained that the gang also had a Lagos leader who he identified as Ossy, adding that his gang was made up of 12 men, including himself, with bases in Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa and Ondo states.
Fotor also said his gang normally teamed up with their Lagos group for operations, disclosing to Vanguard that he and his gang were formerly into sea piracy before teaming up with Ossy.
According to him, Ossy is the leader of the pipeline vandals at Arepo and Ikorodu areas.

Lekki, Ikorodu, Festac and Agbara robbery operations
Fotor also said he and his men took part in the Lekki, Ikorodu, Festac and Agbra bank robberies, adding that they made N28 million from Agbara bank robbery.
“I and my group got N14 million share from the Agbara operation, while, Ossy and his group got N14 million. I left Lagos by waters that day after that operation with my men back to Igbokoda, Ondo State, where we shared the money and everyone got his share of the loot.
‘’It was Ossy’s men who usually pick out our targets. They were the ones who picked out all the targets, my job was to give support and my boat is very big and my boat boy is a professional and knows his way around the water very well,” he stated
When Vanguard inquired who was the woman in the group, he explained that there was no woman in the gang.
He, however, said it was one of Ossy’s boys who normally dressed like a woman during operations.

How the DSS operatives were killed
On how they killed the nine DSS officials, Fotor told Vanguard that as commanders of the groups, he and Ossy never intended to kill the operatives when they were captured.
He explained that the operatives stormed their hideout wanting to rescue a woman who they abducted from Festac.
He explained further: “ One of our boys who was heavily drunk met us while we were interrogating the suspects after we captured them and he opened fire on them.
‘’I was at their camp at Ikorodu when the DSS operatives were captured and they brought them before me and Ossy and they knelt down and we interrogated them, but that guy, he was Ossy’s man. He was very drunk, walked in and without asking questions opened fire on all of them and killed them. Neither myself nor Ossy ordered their killing, we never wanted to kill them,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Vanguard gathered that Fotor and three other suspects arrested along with him have been transferred to Abuja, while SIRT operatives are still combing the area for other members of the gang.
Source: Vanguard

news

Sofela Salutes Workers, Calls Them Pillars of Ogun Central’s Progress

Published

on

Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

The Senatorial Aspirant for Ogun Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel Adebola Sofela, has extended warm felicitations to workers across the district in celebration of the 2026 International Workers’ Day.

In a goodwill message released to mark the global event, Sofela praised the resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment of workers in Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Odeda, Obafemi-Owode, Ifo, and Ewekoro Local Government Areas, noting that their contributions remain central to the growth and development of Ogun Central and Nigeria at large.

Describing workers as the “engine room of progress,” Sofela acknowledged the sacrifices made daily by individuals in both the public and private sectors. He emphasized that from civil servants and entrepreneurs to artisans, traders, and professionals, every category of worker plays a vital role in sustaining the economy and strengthening the social fabric of the region.

“On this special occasion of International Workers’ Day, I celebrate the hardworking men and women across Ogun Central whose dedication and commitment continue to drive our collective progress,” the statement read. “Your efforts, whether seen or unseen, form the foundation upon which our communities thrive.”

Sofela highlighted the importance of recognizing and rewarding hard work, stressing that workers deserve not only commendation but also improved welfare, fair opportunities, and an enabling environment to maximize their potential. He called for renewed focus on policies that prioritize job creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

The senatorial hopeful also paid special tribute to workers in essential services, including healthcare personnel, security operatives, teachers, and sanitation workers, who he said consistently demonstrate exceptional courage and responsibility, often under challenging conditions.

“You remain the backbone of our society, standing firm in service even in difficult times. Your dedication inspires hope and strengthens our resolve to build a better future,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Sofela assured that his aspiration is driven by a desire to advocate for workers’ rights, promote inclusive growth, and support initiatives that will enhance productivity and improve living standards across the district.

As Workers’ Day is celebrated worldwide, his message resonates as both a tribute and a call to action—recognizing the invaluable role of workers while emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to uplift and empower them.

Across Ogun Central, the celebration served as a reminder that behind every achievement lies the dedication of hardworking individuals whose contributions continue to shape the present and secure the future.

Happy International Workers’ Day.

Continue Reading

news

Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) Picks APC Senate Nomination Form for Ondo North

Published

on

Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare Land, has officially picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the Ondo North Senatorial District ahead of the party’s primary election.

Chief ATM obtained the forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, signaling his formal entry into the 2027 senatorial race. He was accompanied by party leaders, youth groups, and supporters from across the six local government areas of Ondo North.

Speaking shortly after picking the forms, Chief ATM said the move was in response to “persistent calls from traditional rulers, elders, women, and youths of Ondo North who desire effective and people-centered representation.”

“My aspiration is not about me. It is about restoring the voice of Ondo North, attracting federal presence, and creating jobs for our youth,” ATM stated. “With the support of our leaders and the grace of God, we are ready for the primary and the general election.”

Party faithful who thronged the secretariat described ATM as “the most prepared and acceptable aspirant,” citing his recent endorsements by former Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi, first-class traditional rulers, and the Ondo North Youth Alliance (ONYA).

Chief ATM reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and a clean, issue-based campaign. He called on delegates to prioritize competence and track record during the primaries.

The APC is expected to announce dates for screening and primary elections in the coming weeks.

Continue Reading

news

Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadri Momoh, and Council Endorse Balogun ATM for Senate 2027

Published

on

His Royal Majesty, Oba Akadri Momoh, The Olukare of Ikare Land, alongside his Oba-in-Council of chiefs and elders, has endorsed Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), the Balogun of Ikare, for the Ondo North Senatorial seat in 2027.

The endorsement was announced on Monday at the Olukare’s Palace during Chief ATM’s courtesy visit. Oba Akadri Momoh described ATM as “a true son of Ikare” with the character and competence to represent Ondo North. “He respects tradition and has never turned his back on our people. He has our royal blessing,” the Olukare said.

Chiefs present echoed the monarch, citing ATM’s consistent support for education, healthcare, and empowerment in Akoko land as proof of his readiness.

Chief ATM thanked the Olukare and Council for the “sacred mandate,” pledging to make the welfare of Ikare and Ondo North his priority in the Senate. “In Abuja, the voice of Ikare will be loud, clear, and respected,” he said.

*Signed:*
ATM Campaign Media Team

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending