news
Wife exposes pastor Richard, who staged own kidnap to extort brother
…Suspect: I did it because I was in debt
According to a police source, on June 16, one Mr. Prosper, Onyekachukwu’s wealthy younger brother, reported to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba that his elder brother named Richard (Onyekachukwu) had been kidnapped and a line of conversation had been opened with his abductors who were asking for a ransom.
The source further disclosed that the IGP immediately directed the Commander of the FIB Intelligence Response Team (FIB-IRT), Abba Kyari, a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) to investigate the matter, ensure the safe return of Onyekachukwu and fish out the culprits.
The IRT operatives swung into action by first visiting the house of the victim where they met his wife but were shocked that she looked unperturbed. And when the operatives introduced themselves as police officers investigating a case of armed robbery against her husband, she shouted that her husband was not an armed robber but only travelled to Taraba State on a business trip.
She told the police officers that although members of her husband’s family thought that he had been in captivity for three weeks, she last saw him about a week earlier.
On the basis of her claims, she was arrested and taken to the police station for interrogation, following which she opened up that it was a case of self-kidnap and the whole idea was from her husband.
She said her husband had financial challenges and was desperately looking for a way to repay the loans he had collected. She said her husband’s plan was to collect the ransom money and pay up his debt.
Following a clue from Mary that her husband was due to visit the house on June 18, the police laid an ambush and picked him up on the said date.
In his confession, Onyekachukwu, who described himself as a pastor and a contractor from Idemili South LGA, said he decided to organise his own kidnap in order to generate money with which he could solve a pressing financial problem.
He said: “I had a big church, Resurrection Power Church, but its roof was blown away by storm. I then took some loans to assist the businesses with which I was supporting the ministry and it was about N600,000.
Unfortunately, in the process, I had financial challenges and paying the loan became difficult. I made some losses in my poultry business and COVID-19 did not help matters. The banks were after me and I didn’t know what to do.
“I was thinking of how to get money from my younger brother, Prosper. He is a civil servant and also rich but stingy. I was thinking of how to get money from him to offset the bills before they would take me to court.
“It wasn’t easy; that was why the thoughts came to me. I don’t know why I decided to use that strategy.
“I called my friend Enoch and shared my thoughts with him. Enoch is also a pastor. Initially, he did not accept, but after sometime, he agreed. I told him that even it was a million or N500,000, I would be satisfied.
“Sometime in May, I travelled home to drop the corpse of my deceased mother at the mortuary. After that, I travelled to Nkpor, close to my village, to see if I could get some contracts.
“I was supposed to come back after a week. I called my wife and brothers about my mission at the village. There was three days delay and my wife was panicking because my phones were off. She called my brothers that I am missing.
“When I came back, I sneaked into the compound, dropped my bag and went to the mountain to pray. I called Enoch that we had an opportunity. He then called and told them that I had been kidnapped.
“I used to come back home, but most times I would sleep in my friend’s place. I told my wife after a week. She started suspecting my movements and I told her the things on the ground and that I didn’t know what to do. I needed to get money from Prosper before the bank people would come to embarrass us.
“I am the second son of my parents, and as an elder, I am expected to play a major role in my mother’s burial. We had a meeting and fixed a date and everyone was running around to see how to raise money to contribute.”
On why he requested that his brother, Prosper, must bring the ransom personally, Richard said: “I have no particular reason to request that my brother, Prosper, should bring the money. I never even thought of that as an issue. This is something I thought would just end within the family. My plan was to inform him after some time.
“On the ransom, I demanded N10 million and they bargained to N5 million, and finally, they brought N2 million. We were still waiting to hear from him when police arrested me at home.
“I am not happy. It is a regrettable action. I took it as a family issue I did not know it would get to this extent. I simply tell him that the reason is that if I had asked him for money to settle my debt, he would not do it. I am close to my brother, so I expected that he would bring the money to save my life.”
Mary, in her own statement, who described herself as a petty trader, said her husband told her that he would be embarking on a business trip on May 20.
“After some days, we could not reach him again. He did not come back the day he said he would return. I called his brothers and explained to them and they said I should relax, that he would come. It took about three days before someone called that my husband had been kidnapped and they were demanding N10 million.
“After a week, he came back and I was happy that he had been released, but he told me to shut up, that he would explain. He then asked me if I had plans to pay up our debts.
“He said since everyone believed that he had been kidnapped, I should not say anything till money was paid. He told me that I had started demonstrating my stubbornness when a woman was supposed to be submissive to her husband no matter the case.
“I was both confused and scared. The night they came to arrest me, I called the uncle and raised the alarm. The next day, they arrested me.
I met him as a pastor and I was taught to be submissive. I was just being submissive. It is not about love but obeying the word of God. I don’t have any word to justify myself. I am finding it difficult to forgive myself.
In his own confession, Enoch, a native of Awgu, Enugu State, said: “I am the founder of Christ Resurrection Power, Gospel Church of All Nations. I have no other job except evangelism. I started the church two years before the COVID-19 shutdown.
“My members dispersed and I was not able to raise money to pay rent so I shut down the church. Reverend Richard (Onyekachukwu) is my neighbour and brother in the Lord. He came to me and told me about his money challenge.
“He is owing some microfinance banks, the landlord was at his neck and he needed to contribute money for his mother’s burial. He does not have money to contribute as an elder brother.
“He said that he needed my assistance. I asked in what area and he said that he wanted to have himself kidnapped. He did not have anywhere to get the money from. His brothers do not like to give him money. He wanted to use this pattern to get money from his brother so I agreed to help him.
“He wrote a script and gave it to me, which I acted properly, including pretending to beat him up. We normally went close to the mountain and called them from there.
“We didn’t have any sharing formula until the money would come. I wanted to use it to go down to the east for evangelism.
“To survive, I used to go for outreach programmes and people will sow seeds and give offerings.
I knew that it was wrong when we got to the police station. The Bible says that deceit is a sin. I don’t know which devil entered my mind.
“I got a calling as far back as 2002 and I served under a church till 2015 when I was officially released. We opened an outreach but the church was officially opened in 2003.
……Stop Using Governor Oyebanji’s Name” — Orin Ora
…….Ward Fires Warning Over Fasuyi Endorsement
Fresh political tension reportedly erupted in Orin Ora Ward, Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, as aggrieved party members and residents allegedly rejected the re-election bid of Senator Cyril Fasuyi over what they described as “three years without visible development.”
The protest mood in the ward was said to have intensified following claims that the senator had repeatedly blamed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for not funding constituency projects and budget allocations.
According to sources within the ward, residents expressed frustration over what they called “unfulfilled promises, lack of empowerment, and absence of meaningful projects” since the senator assumed office.
Political stakeholders in Orin Ora Ward were also said to have rejected alleged attempts to impose Senator Fasuyi on the people ahead of the 2027 elections.
“There is no Sakamaje endorsement here. Orin Ora Ward cannot be forced into supporting any candidate,” a party source reportedly declared.
The stakeholders further warned against dragging the name of Governor Biodun Oyebanji into what they described as “political imposition tactics.”
Residents reportedly insisted that any endorsement must reflect the genuine wishes of the people and not political pressure from powerful interests.
The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, on Friday began the screening of aspirants for various elective positions ahead of its 2027 election primaries, with a member from Ekiti State, Afuye Idowu, filing the first petition, calling for the disqualification of Senator Cyril Fasuyi from the forthcoming Ekiti North Senatorial District primary elections.
The petition, dated May 2, 2026 and addressed to APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, accused Fasuyi — who currently represents Ekiti North Senatorial District in the Senate and is seeking the party’s ticket for a return — of poor legislative performance, violation of the petitioner’s fundamental rights, and instigating his unlawful arrest and imprisonment on false allegations.
The petition was copied to the APC National Secretary, Senator Basiru Ajibola, and the APC Senatorial Primary Elections Screening Committee.
On legislative performance, Idowu said Fasuyi had nothing to show for nearly three years in the Senate. “In the almost three years that Senator Cyril Fasuyi has been a member of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he has not personally sponsored any landmark legislation or bill that will benefit the people of Ekiti North Senatorial District, Ekiti State or Nigeria as a whole.
“He is not reported to have moved any serious motion or made any significant contributions to debates on the floor of the Senate, which implies that the people of Ekiti North Senatorial District do not have a voice of representation in the Senate,” the petitioner stated.
The petitioner also recounted how a public review he conducted in 2025, assessing the performance of past and present National Assembly members, drew a violent response from the senator.
While he said other lawmakers were inspired to better performance by his observations, Fasuyi allegedly took offence and sent thugs to harass him on several occasions.
The situation, according to Idowu, escalated dramatically on the night of July 31, 2025, when he said officers of the Rapid Response Squad RRS of the Ekiti State Police Command arrested him around 9pm at a private residence on the instigation of the senator, and without any prior invitation or notification.
“I was detained and taken before an Ado Ekiti Magistrate Court. Before my arraignment, I was informed that I could be released only if I promised that I would retract my previous statements about the poor performance of Senator Fasuyi and begin to praise him,” he wrote.
When he refused to make such a promise, the RRS officers applied for him to be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service NCoS for 14 days while investigations continued.
“The charges against me were subsequently withdrawn based on lack of evidence and I was discharged,” he stated.
Idowu argued that the 2027 elections must produce legislators capable of giving legislative support to the administration’s reform programme.
“An assessment of Senator Cyril Fasuyi during the time he has so far spent as a member of the National Assembly clearly shows that he is completely antithetical to the Renewed Hope Agenda and the ideology of our great Party. A non-performer like him surely does not deserve to be on the ballot as a candidate of our Party in the 2027 elections,” he wrote.
He urged the national chairman to ensure that only competent aspirants are cleared for the senatorial primary election, from which a deserving candidate would emerge for the 2027 contest.
news
2027 Politics: Dipo Bamisaye Speaks on Tinubu, Oyebanji, Says Ekiti North Needs Aggressive Development
Engineer Dipo Bamisaye, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a seasoned infrastructure expert, has declared his intention to represent Ekiti North Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
In this exclusive interview with Publisher of Newsthumb, Sotayo Olayinka, Engr. Dipo Bamisaye speaks on his political journey, relationship with Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, as well as his plans for infrastructure, youth empowerment, agriculture, and security in Ekiti North. He also shares his views on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the future of Nigeria.
Enjoy the interview…
Good afternoon, sir. Can we meet you?
I am Engineer Dipo Bamisaye, a native of Ijesha-Isu in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State. I have been actively involved in politics for about 15 to 18 years.
This is the third time I will be showing interest in representing Ekiti North Senatorial District. I contested in 2018 and also indicated interest in 2022/2023, but at the time, former Governor Kayode Fayemi advised me to step down for Senator Adetunmbi.
I have been a loyal supporter of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu since the days of the Alliance for Democracy while I was working with ExxonMobil. Today, I am a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers.
I have spent over 30 years in the engineering and infrastructure sector, working across virtually every state in Nigeria. I have handled projects in the North, South, South-East, and South-South, especially in rural infrastructure development.
I have also worked with the World Bank Group as a consultant on the FADAMA agricultural programme. Academically and professionally, I have trained in several countries. I studied bridge construction at the University of Florida in the United States, highway transportation in Ohio, mechanized agriculture in Gauteng, South Africa, and water treatment in China and Germany.
All these experiences have prepared me for leadership and service. My desire to contest for the Senate is to complement the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and bring development closer to the people of Ekiti North.
Beyond politics, I run the BO Charity Trust, through which I have supported communities for over 12 years. Even without holding public office, I have facilitated boreholes, transformers, and other community projects because of my passion for helping the people.
“My Love for the People Inspired Me to Join Politics”
As a technocrat and successful businessman, what attracted you to politics?
What attracted me to politics is my passion for service. People around me kept saying, “If you can do all these things without holding office, imagine what you could achieve with a political platform.”
Over the years, I have supported students with JAMB forms and educational assistance. I have also worked closely with political leaders like the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, who remains my mentor. Through him, I learned a lot about leadership and governance.
If given the opportunity to serve in the Senate, I will work closely with both the President and the Governor to deliver more dividends of democracy to our people.
“Governor Oyebanji and I Share a Cordial Relationship”
What can you tell us about your relationship with Governor Biodun Oyebanji?
Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is someone I hold in very high regard. We have a cordial relationship, and we attended the same institution, Ondo State University, now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti.
I admire his humility and leadership style. During the build-up to his first-term election, when many political actors were still undecided, members of the university alumni association rallied support for him. At the time, I was President of the Alumni Association and also a member of the university council.
We strongly believed in his capacity and worked tirelessly for his emergence. I also discussed extensively with Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who supported the project as well.
To further demonstrate our support, I led a group of alumni members who contributed funds to purchase his nomination form — not because he could not afford it, but because we believed in his vision for Ekiti State.
Today, we remain proud of his achievements and hopeful for his second term.
“Ekiti North Needs More Aggressive Development”
There is already an incumbent senator in Ekiti North. What new ideas are you bringing?
The incumbent senator is our brother, and this is not about personalities. However, we believe Ekiti North can do much better. Representation goes beyond lawmaking; it also involves lobbying for development projects and attracting federal presence.
Ekiti North is in dire need of infrastructure development. Many of our roads are in terrible condition. If elected, I will actively engage federal ministries and agencies to ensure projects are facilitated to our communities.
Education is another key area. Many students still travel long distances to write CBT examinations. We intend to facilitate CBT centres across communities in Ekiti North.
Agriculture is also very important because farming remains the backbone of Ekiti’s economy. We plan to introduce modern mechanized farming, support young farmers with equipment, and encourage agro-processing and light manufacturing. For instance, products like cassava and maize can be processed locally into finished products, creating jobs and boosting the economy.
Security is equally critical. Because of our proximity to northern routes, Ekiti faces security threats. We will support efforts toward improved policing and stronger security collaboration to protect our communities.
“Youth Empowerment Will Be a Major Priority”
What is your agenda for youth employment?
Youth empowerment will be one of our top priorities. Agriculture alone can employ thousands of young people if properly modernized.
Government cannot employ everyone, so our focus will be on capacity building, entrepreneurship, and innovation. We plan to introduce “Train the Trainers” programmes, especially in technology and vocational skills.
From my experience working with the World Bank Group, I understand the templates that can help young people become self-reliant and employers of labour within a short period.
“We Are Mobilising Massive Support for President Tinubu”
What role are you playing in support of President Tinubu’s administration?
We are already mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu across the country. I am among those coordinating the “Renewed Hope Engineers,” a platform created to highlight the achievements of the President in infrastructure and development.
By June, we plan to launch activities across the 36 states and the FCT to showcase projects such as rail development, road construction, and other engineering achievements under the administration.
As an engineer, I can confidently say the President is laying foundations that will stand the test of time.
“Student Loan Scheme Is One of Tinubu’s Biggest Achievements”
What achievements of President Tinubu stand out to you most?
One major achievement is the Student Loan Scheme. Many young Nigerians previously lacked access to quality education because of financial constraints. This initiative gives students greater opportunities and independence.
I also believe it will reduce insecurity because many youths previously became vulnerable during elections due to financial hardship.
Another major achievement is infrastructure development, especially road construction. As an engineer, I understand the importance of durable concrete pavement technology being used on major roads today. Though projects may take time, the long-term benefits will be enormous for future generations.
“I Believe in Free and Fair Primaries”
What is your position on allegations of candidate imposition ahead of the primaries?
Governor Oyebanji has made it clear that he is not interested in imposing candidates. His position is simple — if consensus is possible, fine; if not, there should be free and fair primaries.
I strongly believe in democracy and transparent elections. President Tinubu himself has always encouraged fair competition within the party.
“Policies That Benefit Nigerians Deserve Support”
Some people accuse lawmakers of being rubber stamps. What is your view?
If a policy is designed for the benefit of Nigerians, I see nothing wrong in supporting it.
For example, the removal of fuel subsidy was necessary because the system was riddled with corruption. The Student Loan Bill is another important initiative that deserves support because it helps indigent students access education.
If supporting good policies is called “rubber stamping,” then so be it. What matters most is the welfare of Nigerians.
“Nigeria Needs Stronger Community and State Policing”
Lastly, what is your wish for President Tinubu and Nigeria?
My prayer is that God grants President Tinubu wisdom, strength, and good health to continue leading Nigeria.
I also strongly support the idea of state policing and community policing. Security challenges can be addressed more effectively when local communities are actively involved in protecting themselves.
With the right leadership, commitment, and cooperation, I believe Nigeria can achieve greater progress and stability.
-
news6 years agoUPDATE: #ENDSARS: CCTV footage of Lekki shootings intact – Says Sanwo – Olu
-
lifestyle6 years agoFormer Miss World: Mixed reactions trail Agbani Darego’s looks
-
health5 years agoChairman Agege LG, Ganiyu Egunjobi Receives Covid-19 Vaccines
-
lifestyle5 years agoObateru: Celebrating a Quintessential PR Man at 60
-
health6 years agoUPDATE : Nigeria Records 790 new cases of COVID-19
-
health6 years agoBREAKING: Nigeria confirms 663 new cases of COVID-19
-
entertainment1 year agoAshny Set for Valentine Special and new Album ‘ Femme Fatale’
-
news12 months agoBREAKING: Tinubu swears in new NNPCL Board