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.
Panic erupted in parts of Osogbo, the Osun State capital, on Monday following a violent clash involving rival groups reportedly fighting over the control of motor parks and garages around the Old Garage axis.
Witnesses said the confrontation, which was accompanied by sustained gunfire, sent residents, traders, motorists and pedestrians scampering for safety as the unrest spread across the area.
The incident reportedly disrupted commercial activities, with several shops hurriedly shut while commuters abandoned the area in search of safer routes.
Although the exact number of casualties remains unclear, there are fears that several persons may have sustained injuries during the clash. However, authorities are yet to confirm any deaths or the number of those injured.
Motorists and pedestrians have been advised to avoid the Old Garage area and adjoining roads until normalcy is restored and security agencies secure the scene.
As of the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the violence has not been officially established. While some residents believe the clash may be linked to a dispute over the control of motor parks involving rival transport union groups, others have speculated about possible political undertones.
However, these claims remain unverified, and there has been no official statement from the Osun State Government, the Police, or the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Security operatives are expected to investigate the incident and restore peace to the affected area.
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.
Justice Alexandra Owoeye of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, ordered the final forfeiture of 52 terrace and maisonette units located in the Lekki area of Lagos.
The properties, located at Mercyville Estate, Covenant Way, off New Road, Ilasan, Lagos, were recovered from Fielddreams Limited, Ifeanyi Nweke and Amex Savings and Loans Limited.
The judge gave the order, following a Motion on Notice filed and argued by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, through its counsel, Franklin Ofoma.
The Commission had, on August 14, 2024, secured the interim forfeiture of the properties through an order granted by Justice Akintayo Aluko, following an ex parte application filed by the EFCC through its counsel, Ofoma.
The order was made in favour of one Dr. Kennedy Okonkwo, a real estate developer and Chief Executive Officer of Capital Gardens Limited.
In his ruling, Justice Aluko also directed the Commission to publish the interim forfeiture order in a national newspaper, inviting any interested party to show cause why the properties should not be finally forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Following the publication of the order, the respondents filed an affidavit to show cause why the court should not grant the final forfeiture of the properties.
Initially, in paragraphs 16 to 25 of their affidavit, the respondents stated that the funds used to develop the 52 terrace and maisonette units were derived from the sale of a portion of land acquired through the sale of 29 terrace and maisonette units valued at One Billion, Nine Hundred Million Naira (₦1,900,000,000.00).
They, however, subsequently made a U-turn, accusing the 3rd to 19th applicants of failing to complete the various terrace and maisonette units.
This contradicted their earlier affidavit evidence in which they had stated that they used the proceeds from the sale to complete the furnishing and interior decoration of the remaining units and that construction had been completed in 2020.
At Wednesday’s proceedings, Ofoma, while moving the application for the final forfeiture of the properties, informed the court that the Commission had fully complied with the court’s order regarding the publication of the interim forfeiture.
He further told the court that the application was supported by a 31-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Afolabi Seyi Oladele, a litigation officer in the Legal Department of the EFCC.
According to him, the properties were reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities, and he urged the court to grant the application for their final forfeiture.
Ofoma further submitted that the second respondent, Nweke, is a criminal fugitive, adding that he “has refused to appear before Justice R.A. Oshodi and Justice Okunuga in Charge No. ID/25771C/2025 and Charge No. ID/25769C/2025 for his arraignment and to defend the charges if he believes that he did not commit any of the offences contained in the charges against him.”
He further informed the court that there were two subsisting warrants of arrest against the second respondent, adding that he had jumped the administrative bail earlier granted him by the Commission over the alleged offences.
After listening to the submissions of both the applicant and the respondents, Justice Owoeye held that “Premised on the foregoing position of the law, I hold that since this court cannot pick and choose which of the evidence given by Respondents to believe, it must consequently reject the entire affidavit evidence placed before it by the 1st-3rd Respondents.
“Accordingly, I reject the 1st-3rd Respondents’ Affidavit to Show Cause/Counter-Affidavit to the Applicant/Respondent’s Motion on Notice for Final Forfeiture filed on the 9th of February, 2026, but deemed properly filed on the 28th of April, 2026.
“The consequence is that there is no opposition to the Motion filed by the 1st and 2nd Applicants for the grant of an order of final forfeiture.”
The judge further held that
“Premised on the foregoing, I find that having demonstrated grounds for reasonable suspicion that the properties in question are the proceeds of unlawful activities, the applicants are entitled to the reliefs sought in this application. I therefore resolve the sole issue in this application in favour of the Applicants.”
In the final analysis, the court held that “Having resolved the sole issue in this application in favour of the applicants, I hold that this application has merit and ought to be granted. Accordingly, I grant the relief sought in this application as prayed.”
The Federal Government has charged three men identified as Abdulrazak Umar (a.k.a. Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid), Yunusa Musa (a.k.a. Yunusa bin Musa), and Shamsu Adamu Sani (a.k.a. Abu Itisar), for the recent k!dnapping of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area (LGA) of Oyo state.
The 10-count charges filed before the Federal High Court, Abuja, border on terrorism, kidnapping, concealment, incitement and illegal mining.
The defendants, all of Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State, are alleged to have conspired with one Muhammad Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab between January and May 2026 to k!dnap school children and teachers in Oyo State.
They are further alleged to have aided the k!dnap of the school children and teachers, and to have concealed information regarding the identities and activities of the alleged masterminds despite knowledge of the plot, offences said to contravene Sections 26(2) and 16(1) of the Act respectively.
The charge sheet also alleged that the trio, on or about 2nd June 2026, professed membership of Darul Salam, described as an affiliate of Jamaatu Asarul Muslima Fi Bilandis Sudan (Ansaru), a proscribed terrorist organisation in Nigeria, contrary to Section 25(1) of the Act.
In separate counts, the first defendant, Abdulrazak Umar, is specifically accused of providing training and instructions to terror!sts and inciting members to commit acts of terror!sm through a WhatsApp group titled “The Oneness of Allah is the Foundation of Peace,” offences said to contravene Sections 15 and 2(2)(g) of the Terrorism Act as well as Section 18 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
The tenth count accused Umar of engaging in unlawful gold mining at streams within Chaza area of Suleja LGA between 2024 and 2026, contrary to Section 8(b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act.
The suspects are expected to appear in court next week.
