Oduduwa News

A resident was reportedly killed while two others sustained gunshot injuries following an alleged shooting involving operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and soldiers during a pursuit of suspected rice smugglers in the Oko-Afo area of Badagry, Lagos State.

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday evening, between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., around Oko-Afo Bus Stop, near Oyobo Filling Station.

According to eyewitness accounts cited in reports, the security operatives were pursuing a commercial bus allegedly conveying three bags of smuggled rice when the situation escalated.

The Customs officers and soldiers were said to have followed the vehicle into a nearby street after the occupants allegedly attempted to evade arrest. Eyewitnesses further alleged that shots were fired during the pursuit, causing residents and commuters to flee the area in panic.

A resident reportedly sustained a gunshot injury to the chest and later died. Two other people, including a trader who was allegedly hit by a stray bullet, were also reportedly injured and taken to hospital for treatment.

The incident reportedly caused confusion in the community, with traders, residents and motorists said to have scampered for safety following the gunfire.

The family of the deceased reportedly confirmed that the matter had been reported at the Morogbo Police Station. The family was said to have declined an alleged police request to deposit the deceased’s remains at a morgue, insisting that the body be buried in accordance with Islamic rites.

Reacting to the incident, the Nigeria Customs Service said it was saddened by reports of the death and confirmed that it was compiling a full operational report to establish what transpired.

The NCS Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, reportedly said an investigation had commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and assess whether operational rules of engagement were followed.

He reportedly stressed that the Customs Service has a zero-tolerance policy for the unprofessional or reckless use of firearms, adding that any officer found to have acted outside the law or established operational procedures would face appropriate disciplinary and legal action.

The agency appealed to residents of Oko-Afo, Badagry, and the general public to remain calm while investigations continue.

The identities of the deceased and injured victims had not been officially released at the time of reporting.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has questioned Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over his alleged role in the emergence of the controversial Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC).

Gbajabiamila reportedly appeared before investigators at the ICPC headquarters on Monday, where he was questioned regarding the circumstances surrounding the establishment and activities of the council.

The development was confirmed by his counsel, Jiti Ogunye, who disclosed that the Chief of Staff honoured the commission’s invitation and responded to questions from investigators.

The PFIPC controversy came into the spotlight following concerns over the council’s legitimacy and the circumstances surrounding its operations. The matter has generated public interest, with questions being raised about the individuals behind the council and the authority under which it operated.

The ICPC’s decision to question Gbajabiamila is believed to be part of its ongoing investigation into the controversy and the processes that led to the emergence of the PFIPC.

However, details of the questions posed to the Chief of Staff and his responses have not been made public. It also remains unclear whether the investigation will lead to further invitations or actions by the anti-corruption agency.

The development is expected to further intensify scrutiny of the PFIPC saga as investigators continue efforts to establish the facts surrounding the council and determine whether any laws were violated.

Residents of Ondo State were thrown into panic on Sunday evening following a reported attack by suspected armed bandits on motorists travelling along the Ondo–Ile-Oluji Road.

According to reports, the assailants allegedly ambushed road users, causing fear and confusion in the area. The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, and the number of casualties or injured victims has not been officially confirmed as of the time of filing this report.

The incident has heightened security concerns among residents and commuters who regularly use the route, with many expressing fears over the increasing cases of insecurity on major roads.

Security agencies are expected to intensify efforts to restore normalcy and track down those responsible for the attack. However, no official statement has yet been issued by the relevant authorities regarding the incident.

Residents have been urged to remain calm, stay vigilant, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security operatives. Motorists are also advised to exercise caution and, where possible, avoid unnecessary travel along the affected route until the security situation improves.

Oduduwa News will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.

The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement (GHSM) has reacted to what it described as false and misleading remarks made by the Osun State Chairman of the Accord Party, Pastor Victor Akande, during a radio programme, warning Governor Ademola Adeleke against actions capable of costing him his re-election.

In a statement issued by the South-West Coordinator of GHSM, Alhaji Abass Olaniyi, the movement said the comments credited to the Osun Accord Chairman regarding Governor Adeleke’s endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Accord’s presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, were based on fabricated documents, deliberate misrepresentation of facts and a distortion of political timelines.

Abass stated that while Governor Adeleke’s endorsement of President Tinubu was a carry-over from the PDP into Accord Party, the National leadership of Accord Party had already demonstrated its Presidential direction by actively lobbying Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim to join the party and contest the 2027 election.

According to GHSM, on 21 July 2025, the Osun PDP leadership caucus endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, a decision widely reported while Governor Adeleke remained a PDP governor. The movement noted that it rejected the endorsement at the time because it was inconsistent with its political position.

The movement also recalled that in March 2026, the National leadership of Accord Party, led by its National Chairman, Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, visited Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim and engaged him on joining the party to contest the presidential election.

The delegation, which included the party’s National Secretary, Hon. Adebukola Abiola Ajaja; National Treasurer, Salaudeen Abdulazeez Oyeniyi; and Organising Secretary, Hon. Ibe ThankGod, met with Dr. Olawepo-Hashim in Abuja as part of efforts to build a broad National political platform ahead of 2027.

GHSM stated that following the engagement, Dr. Olawepo-Hashim followed due process to participate in the party’s Presidential process and emerged as the Presidential Candidate of the party.

Abass said the engagement clearly contradicts claims that Accord Party had no Presidential direction, stressing that the party’s National leadership in April 2026 publicly disowned Governor Adeleke’s purported endorsement of President Tinubu and reaffirmed Accord’s National Presidential agenda.

“So, the facts are clear. Governor Adeleke endorsed President Tinubu before joining Accord Party. Also, Accord Party’s National leadership lobbied Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim to provide Presidential leadership for the party, and he emerged as the Presidential candidate of the party through open direct primaries.

“Therefore, the argument that Adeleke’s endorsement of Tinubu was caused by the absence of a Presidential candidate in Accord does not align with the timeline of events,” GHSM stated.

The South-West Coordinator warned that Governor Adeleke’s political approach within Accord Party raises concerns similar to the internal contradictions that weakened the PDP.

Alhaji Abass said political parties are strengthened when members respect institutions, structures and collective decisions rather than allowing individual interests to determine the direction of the party.

“Accord Party must not travel the same path that weakened PDP. A political party cannot survive when individual calculations are placed above the collective aspirations of its members,” he stated.

GHSM further stated that 24 State Chairmen of Accord Party across the federation have endorsed Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, while noting that the legal dispute surrounding the party’s Presidential Primary is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The movement stressed that it would not make public comments on a matter already before the court.

“The issue of Accord Party’s presidential primary is reserved for judgment at the Federal High Court in Abuja. As responsible stakeholders, we will not engage in public commentary on a matter that is before the court. We have confidence in the judicial process and await the decision of the court,” GHSM stated.

GHSM cautioned that Governor Adeleke’s political future in Osun State depends on the unity and strength of the platform under which he seeks re-election.

The movement insisted that failure to recognise and work with key stakeholders supporting Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim could deepen divisions within Accord Party and affect its electoral prospects.

The movement reaffirmed its commitment to the presidential project of Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, describing it as a movement focused on political renewal, competence, institutional reform and National transformation.

Former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Gbenga Daniel, has said that only God knows who will emerge as the next governor of Ogun State in the 2027 general election, urging political supporters to avoid unnecessary rivalry and maintain peace.

Daniel made the remark while addressing supporters at a public event where political chants in support of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 election, Ladi Adebutu, and the Senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, dominated the gathering.

Responding to the chants, the former governor cautioned against creating divisions over the 2027 governorship race, stressing that the outcome of elections ultimately rests with God.

According to him, while individuals are free to support their preferred aspirants, no one can determine who will eventually occupy the Government House in 2027.
“Only God knows who will become the next governor of Ogun State between Adebutu and Yayi. We should not allow politics to divide us. Let us continue to live in peace and work together for the development of Ogun State,” Daniel said.

He urged politicians and their supporters to conduct their political activities with maturity and respect, emphasizing that healthy political competition should not breed hostility.

Daniel also called on residents of the state to remain focused on governance and development rather than engaging in premature political battles ahead of the 2027 elections.

His comments come amid growing political activities and speculations over the race to succeed the current administration, with several prominent politicians already being linked to the governorship contest.

Political observers believe Daniel’s intervention is aimed at promoting unity and reducing tension as political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections continue to gather momentum across Ogun State.

ISEYIN, OYO STATE — Tension has enveloped Iseyin and its surrounding communities following the alleged abduction of a prominent businessman, Dr. Sola Aderoju, popularly known as Asoso, by suspected kidnappers.

According to information gathered, Dr. Aderoju was allegedly kidnapped on Saturday night in the Oja-Agbe area of Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State.

His family has since raised the alarm over his disappearance, appealing to security agencies and members of the public to assist in locating him. Relatives said they have been making frantic efforts to ascertain his whereabouts since the incident occurred.

The alleged kidnapping has generated widespread concern among residents, business associates and well-wishers, many of whom described Dr. Aderoju as a respected businessman and prominent member of the Iseyin community.

As of the time of filing this report, the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. It was also not immediately known whether the abductors had established contact with the family or made any ransom demand.

Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement regarding the alleged abduction. However, residents have called on the police and other security operatives to intensify efforts to rescue the businessman unhurt and bring those responsible to justice.

The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, with community members urging authorities to strengthen surveillance and security measures to protect lives and property.

This remains a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) serving in Ekiti State have been cautioned against engaging in corrupt practices or any form of misconduct capable of tarnishing the image of the anti-graft agency.

The warning was issued during a strategic engagement with personnel, where officers were reminded that integrity, professionalism and accountability remain the core values of the Commission.

The officers were urged to carry out their duties in strict compliance with the law, avoid abuse of office and shun acts capable of undermining public confidence in the EFCC.

Speaking during the session, the leadership stressed that every officer represents the image of the Commission and must therefore uphold the highest ethical standards while discharging official responsibilities.

The officers were also warned not to exploit their positions for personal gain or engage in actions that could expose them to disciplinary measures or criminal prosecution.

According to the Commission, corruption within an anti-corruption agency is unacceptable, as it erodes public trust and weakens the fight against economic and financial crimes.

Personnel were encouraged to remain focused, transparent and committed to the Commission’s mandate of investigating and prosecuting financial crimes without fear or favour.

The leadership further noted that officers who maintain integrity and professionalism would contribute significantly to strengthening the credibility of the EFCC and the nation’s anti-corruption efforts.

The Commission reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for corruption and misconduct, warning that any officer found wanting would face appropriate disciplinary action in line with established regulations.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC to reinforce ethical conduct, institutional discipline and accountability among its personnel across the country.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, has been elected as the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), becoming only the second woman in the association’s history to occupy the prestigious office.

Badejo-Okusanya emerged victorious in the NBA’s 2026 national election after securing the highest number of votes in the electronic poll, which officially concluded on Sunday morning. She defeated fellow Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Lateef Akangbe and Olumuyiwa Akinboro, to clinch the association’s top position.

The Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA), Chief Aham Ejelam, SAN, announced the final results following the completion of voting and collation.

According to the official tally, Badejo-Okusanya received 47.18 per cent of the 26,106 valid votes cast, earning a two-year mandate to lead Nigeria’s foremost body of legal practitioners from 2026 to 2028.

Her victory marks a significant milestone for the legal profession, as she becomes the second female president of the NBA after Priscilla Kuye, who served between 1991 and 1992.

In her acceptance remarks, Badejo-Okusanya pledged to lead the association with integrity, accountability and courage, promising to build a stronger and more inclusive Bar that prioritises the welfare of lawyers, upholds the rule of law and advances justice across the country.

Her election has been widely hailed by members of the legal community as a historic moment that reflects growing confidence in inclusive leadership within the Nigerian Bar Association.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled five major social and economic development programmes valued at approximately $3.05 billion, aimed at reducing poverty, strengthening community resilience and accelerating investments in healthcare, education and other human capital development priorities across Nigeria.

The programmes were officially launched on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a ceremony attended by senior government officials, state governors, development partners and key stakeholders.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said the interventions reflect the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that ongoing economic reforms translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.

The newly launched initiatives, which are largely financed through support from the World Bank, are designed to improve access to quality healthcare, enhance learning outcomes, strengthen social protection systems and support communities affected by conflict, displacement and other socio-economic challenges.

According to the Federal Government, the five programmes form part of a coordinated national strategy to tackle poverty, build resilience among vulnerable populations and promote inclusive economic growth across the country.

The government noted that the interventions would complement existing reform efforts by investing in people, expanding opportunities for vulnerable households and improving the delivery of essential public services.

Stakeholders at the launch commended the initiative, describing it as a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s development challenges through strategic investments in human capital and community development.

The Federal Government expressed optimism that the implementation of the programmes would help improve living standards, create greater economic opportunities and accelerate sustainable development nationwide.