Oduduwa News

Tension is mounting within the Oyo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as concerned youth stakeholders and party members have formally petitioned the national leadership over alleged plans to impose candidates ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary elections.

In an open petition dated Monday, 18 May 2026 and addressed to the National Chairman of the party, Senator David Mark, and the National Secretary, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, the concerned members urged the leadership to urgently intervene and protect the integrity of the party’s internal democratic process in Oyo State.

The petition received by Oduduwa News, signed by “Concerned Youth Stakeholders, African Democratic Congress, Oyo State,” raised alarm over what it described as deliberate attempts by certain individuals within the state chapter to impose preferred candidates, particularly for the Oyo Central Senatorial District ticket and the House of Representatives seat for Oyo Federal Constituency, ahead of the primary election scheduled for Friday, 22 May 2026.

According to the petitioners, the alleged moves have sparked widespread concern among party faithful, youth stakeholders and aspirants who have invested significant time, resources and credibility in building the ADC’s grassroots structures across the state. They expressed worry that credible aspirants are being sidelined through what they termed “backdoor arrangements,” while candidates with little connection to the grassroots and limited visibility among party members are being promoted.

The aggrieved members emphasized that internal democracy remains the bedrock of any credible political party, warning that any attempt to impose candidates could undermine trust, discourage loyal members and damage the ADC’s growing reputation as a viable alternative political platform.

“The imposition of candidates sends the wrong signal to Nigerians, especially young people who are beginning to see the ADC as a genuine platform for transparent and people-driven leadership,” the petition stated.

They called on the national leadership to ensure that the forthcoming primary election in Oyo State is conducted in a free, fair, transparent and credible manner, stressing that every aspirant must be given an equal opportunity to test their popularity through a legitimate democratic process without interference or manipulation.

The petitioners also urged the party leadership to closely monitor developments in Oyo State and guarantee that only financial members of the party are allowed to make independent choices based on their convictions and the overall interest of the ADC.

Describing the current moment as a defining period for the party, the concerned stakeholders warned that decisions taken now would significantly shape public confidence in the ADC ahead of future elections.

“We remain committed members of the ADC and believe that justice, fairness and transparency must prevail,” the petition concluded.

As political activities intensify ahead of the party primaries, attention is now focused on how the national leadership will respond to the concerns raised, amid growing calls for accountability and strict adherence to democratic principles within the party.

The copy of the petition is reproduced below.

Monday, 18 May 2026

Sen. David Mark
The National Chairman
African Democratic Congress
No. 2 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent,
Wuse II, FCT-Abuja

H. E. Rauf Aregbesola
The National Secretary
African Democratic Congress
No. 2 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent,
Wuse II, FCT-Abuja

Distinguished leaders of our great Party,

OPEN PETITION: SAVE ADC IN OYO STATE FROM CANDIDATE IMPOSITION

We write under the umbrella of concerned youth stakeholders and committed members of the African Democratic Congress in Oyo State who remain deeply committed to the growth of our party and the democratic values it represents.

As the party prepares for its forthcoming primary elections scheduled for Friday, 22 May 2026, we feel compelled to draw the urgent attention of the national leadership to disturbing developments within certain quarters in Oyo State where deliberate attempts are allegedly being made to impose preferred candidates on party members, particularly in relation to the party’s Oyo Central Senatorial District ticket and the House of Representatives ticket for Oyo Federal Constituency.

These reports have created growing concerns among party faithful, youth stakeholders and aspirants who have invested time, resources and credibility in building the party’s structure across the state. Of particular concern are alleged attempts to sideline credible aspirants through backdoor arrangements while promoting candidates who are largely unknown to grassroots members and have little or no connection with the struggles and aspirations of the people they seek to represent.

We believe strongly that the strength of any political party lies in its ability to uphold internal democracy. The imposition of candidates undermines trust, discourages genuine party members and damages the credibility of the party before the general public. It also sends the wrong message to young people who are beginning to see the ADC as a genuine alternative platform for transparent and people-driven leadership.

We therefore call on the national leadership of our great party to urgently intervene and ensure that the forthcoming primary election in Oyo State is conducted in a manner that is free, fair, transparent and credible. Every aspirant must be allowed to test their popularity through a legitimate democratic process without interference, manipulation or imposition.

We also urge the national leadership to closely monitor activities in Oyo State and ensure that financial members of the party are allowed to make independent choices based on their convictions and the interest of the party.

This is a defining moment for our party. The decisions made now will shape public confidence in the ADC ahead of future elections. We must not allow avoidable actions to weaken the trust that many Nigerians are beginning to place in our party.

We remain committed members of the ADC and believe that justice, fairness and transparency must prevail.

Signed,

Concerned Youth Stakeholders
African Democratic Congress
Oyo State, Nigeria

The government of Oyo State has confirmed the death of Michael Oyedokun, a school teacher who was among individuals abducted by suspected bandits in the state, in a development that has sparked widespread grief and renewed concerns over insecurity.

Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed the tragic incident while assuring residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure the release of other victims still in captivity. The governor condemned the killing, describing it as a painful and unacceptable act, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

According to available reports, Oyedokun was kidnapped alongside others during a recent attack, with the abductors reportedly making demands as negotiations for the victims’ release continued. The unfortunate confirmation of his death has sent shockwaves through the education community and beyond, with colleagues, students, and community members mourning the loss of a dedicated educator.

Governor Makinde stated that security operatives, including local intelligence teams and law enforcement agencies, have been deployed to track down the perpetrators and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. He also assured affected families that the government would not relent until the remaining abducted persons are safely rescued.

The latest incident has again raised calls for stronger security interventions in vulnerable communities across Oyo State, as residents urge authorities to intensify efforts against rising cases of kidnapping and violent attacks. Community leaders and civil society groups have also appealed for enhanced collaboration between government and local vigilante networks to prevent further tragedies.

A former presidential candidate, Dr Gbenga Hashim has issued a strong condemnation of the abduction of schoolchildren from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, and recent coordinated attacks on multiple schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State within the Ogbomosho axis, describing the incidents as “a brutal assault on Nigeria’s future.”

The affected schools in Oyo State include Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A Primary School, Esiele.

In a sharply worded reaction, Hashim said the targeting of schoolchildren marks a dangerous escalation in terror tactics and a direct attack on education, stability, and National hope.

“Schools must never become theatres of fear,” he stated, warning that repeated attacks on learning institutions risk entrenching insecurity across generations.

He extended condolences to affected families while urging the Federal Government and security agencies to act swiftly and decisively, insisting that the safe and immediate rescue of the children must be treated as a national priority.

The former presidential candidate said the incidents expose persistent weaknesses in Nigeria’s rural security framework, where insurgent groups continue to exploit ungoverned spaces, poverty, and limited State presence.

Referencing the recent elimination of an ISIS commander through joint Nigerian–U.S. operations, Hashim acknowledged the importance of military gains but cautioned against overreliance on isolated successes.

“This tragedy is a stark reminder that tactical victories alone cannot secure the Nation,” he said.

He called for a decisive shift toward a comprehensive National security doctrine, combining sustained military pressure with intelligence coordination, border control, rural security expansion, and targeted socio-economic interventions.

Hashim also urged the international community to pay closer attention to the deteriorating security situation in Northern Nigeria, warning that its implications extend beyond National borders into the wider West and Central African region.

He criticised the lack of sustained global urgency, particularly regarding repeated abductions of African children, cautioning against growing international indifference.

“The world must not become desensitised,” he said.

Concluding, he warned that Nigeria cannot build a stable future under the shadow of fear.
“No nation can thrive when its children are hunted and its schools are under siege.”

The rescue operation for the abducted teachers and students in the Ahoro-Esinele/Yawota area of Oriire Local Government has reportedly become more difficult, as suspected bandits are now using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) to prevent security operatives from surrounding them.

According to Eclat media , a joint team of soldiers, operatives of the Amotekun Corps, Agro-Rangers, and local hunters on Saturday evening traced the kidnappers and their captives to a hill near Igbeti. The rescue team was said to be advancing towards the location when the gunmen opened heavy fire.

A victim receiving treatment at the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, reportedly disclosed that the bullets fired by the bandits had little effect on most of the security personnel, forcing the attackers to resort to IEDs. The explosives reportedly caught the rescue team off guard, leading to the death of one operative while several others sustained injuries.

The source further explained that the cries of the abducted children could be heard during the operation.

The Ogun State Government has confirmed that all victims affected by the recent gas inhalation incident in Ijebu-Ode have fully recovered and have been discharged from hospital after receiving medical treatment.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, disclosed this during an engagement with parents, guardians, and residents at Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Ijebu-Ode, assuring the public that all admitted victims—both adults and children—are now in stable condition and have returned home.

According to the commissioner, the victims were admitted at the State Hospital, Ijebu-Ode, and other nearby health facilities after being exposed to suspected methane gas emissions that affected several schools in the town. She explained that although methane is generally considered a non-toxic gas, it can displace oxygen in the body, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and breathing difficulties.

Dr. Coker noted that no severe cases were recorded during the incident, expressing gratitude that all affected individuals responded well to treatment. She added that the state government has activated emergency response mechanisms to prevent future occurrences and ensure swift intervention in case of any similar incidents.

As part of immediate measures, ambulance crews staffed with trained paramedics and drivers will be deployed across all wards in Ijebu-Ode to provide rapid emergency response. The government has also established a medical referral protocol to ensure that any patient requiring advanced care can be promptly transferred to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.

She further revealed that district surveillance nurses, environmental health officers, and rapid response teams have been deployed to the affected communities, while the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has been informed and is monitoring the situation.

Residents were urged to remain calm and report any unusual smells or suspicious environmental changes through designated emergency hotlines. Dr. Coker also announced plans to train teachers in public and private schools, as well as interested parents, as community first responders to improve emergency preparedness.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, disclosed that gas analyzers have been installed around affected schools to monitor air quality and detect any abnormal methane concentrations. He said the government is working with experts from Olabisi Onabanjo University and the Federal Ministry of Environment to investigate the source of the emissions and develop long-term solutions.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Education, Abayomi Arigbabu, appealed to school administrators, teachers, and parents to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation that could trigger unnecessary panic. He assured residents that student safety remains a top priority.

The Ogun State Police Command has also intensified security around schools in the area, with the deployment of the School Protection Squad, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and drone surveillance teams to support environmental monitoring and ensure public safety.

The government reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and restoring confidence, assuring the public that the situation is under control and normal academic activities can safely continue.

The principal of Community High School, Esiele in Oyo State, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, has urged the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, CAN, and Nigerians to intervene and secure the release of abducted staff and students.

Gunmen reportedly attacked LA Primary School and Community Grammar School in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire LGA, on Friday, killing a teacher and abducting the principal, two vice principals, three teachers, and several students.

In a video from captivity, Mrs. Alamu said; “I am Mrs. Alamu. I am the principal of Community High School in Oyo State. On Friday, around 9:30, we were attacked by a certain group of people, and a good number of us were abducted. The staff and the students as well, and we have been here since Friday.”

She also appealed: “I am making this video to ask for help from everyone, starting from the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the Oyo State Government, the Christian Association of Nigeria, and all well-meaning Nigerians, that they should come to our help and settle these things peacefully, so that our lives will not be lost,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government said security operatives have intensified rescue operations and blocked escape routes around the National Park area. Commissioner Dotun Oyelade said the attackers have been contained within the forest axis to prevent movement to other states. He added that joint security teams are on ground, while the exact number of abducted students is still being verified.

Uncertainty and anxiety have continued to trail the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary elections in Ondo State, as results from six federal constituencies remain officially pending, fueling tension among aspirants, party loyalists, and supporters across the state.

The primary elections, held to determine the party’s candidates for the 2027 general elections, were reportedly concluded in several constituencies, with winners already emerging in some areas. However, delays in the announcement and ratification of results from six key constituencies have sparked confusion and heightened political uncertainty within the ruling party.

Sources within the party disclosed that disagreements over delegate accreditation, alleged irregularities during voting, and disputes over vote collation may have contributed to the delay in releasing the outstanding results. Some aggrieved aspirants and their supporters have reportedly raised concerns over the transparency of the process, calling on the party leadership to ensure fairness and uphold internal democratic principles.

The affected constituencies are said to be among the most politically strategic in the state, with intense competition among aspirants and high expectations from party stakeholders. As a result, tensions have remained high, with supporters anxiously awaiting official confirmation of their preferred candidates.

Party insiders revealed that the unresolved results may eventually be moved to for final review and announcement by the national leadership of the APC. This development, according to observers, is aimed at preventing further controversy and ensuring that all disputes are carefully addressed before any formal declaration is made.

While the APC Ondo State chapter has yet to issue a comprehensive statement on the delayed results, party officials have appealed for calm among members, assuring them that due process will be followed and that credible outcomes will be delivered.

Political analysts say the ongoing uncertainty could test party unity ahead of the 2027 elections, especially if the disputes are not resolved quickly and transparently. Nonetheless, many stakeholders remain hopeful that the intervention of the party’s national leadership will help restore confidence in the process.

As anticipation builds, party members across Ondo State are closely monitoring developments, with many expecting that the remaining six results may be officially announced in Abuja in the coming days.

Amid conflicting claims and rising political tension following the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election in Oluyole Federal Constituency, party faithfuls and stakeholders have rallied behind Hon. Mumeen Olalekan Tajudeen (popularly known as MOT), affirming him as the authentic winner of the keenly contested primary.

According to results announced by party faithfuls and leaders present at the exercise, Hon. Mumeen Olalekan Tajudeen (MOT) secured a commanding 1911 votes, defeating other aspirants in the race, including Hon. Kehinde Olaosebikan, who polled 115 votes, Hon. Gbolagade Abiodun who polled 818, Hon. Olusunbo Olugbemi with 156 votes, Hon. Jide who polled 05 votes and the incumbent House of Representatives member, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, who garnered 24 votes. According to the report, the breakdown of the votes ward by ward stated as thus:

Ward 01
Mumin Olalekan MOT – 60
Hon. Gbolagade – 60
Hon. Olaosebikan – 02
Hon Olugbemi – 04
Hon. Sadipe – 01

Ward 02
Hon. Mumin Olalekan MOT – 199
Hon. OluGbemi – 38
Hon. Gbolagade – 28
Hon. Olaosebikan – Nil
Hon. Sadipe – Nil
Hon. Jide – Nil

Ward 03
Hon. Mumin Olalekan MOT – 319
Hon. Gbolagade – 320
Hon. OluGbemi – 05
Hon. Sadipe – Nil

Ward 04
Hon. Mumin Olalekan MOT – 444
Hon. Gbolagade – 51
Hon. Sadipe – 12
Hon. OluGbemi – 32
Hon. Jude – 05
Hon. Olaosebikan – 12

Ward 05
Hon. Olalekan MOT – 117
Hon. Gbolagade – 13
Hon. Gbemi – 23

Ward 06
Hon. Olalekan MOT – 52
Hon. Gbolagade – 18
Hon. OluGbemi – 04
Hon Sadipe – 01
Hon. Olaosebikan – 01

Ward 07
Hon Mumin Olalekan MOT – 530
Hon. Gbolagade – 233
Hon. Olaosebikan- 60
Hon. Gbemi – 01

Ward 08
Hon. Mumin Olalekan MOT – 101
Hon. Gbemi – 06
Hon. Gbolagade – 15
Hon. Sadipe – 02

Ward 09
Hon. Mumin Olalekan MOT – 62
Hon. Olaosebikan – 40
Hon. Gbolagade – 20
Hon. OluGbemi – 02

Ward 10

Hon. Mumin Olalekan MOT – 27
Hon. Gbolagade – 60
Hon. OluGbemi – 04
Hon. Sadipe – 07

The declaration comes amid confusion generated by separate claims of victory reportedly made by the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Akande-Sadipe had emerged victorious. However, party members and supporters across Oluyole have dismissed such reports, insisting that the officially collated results clearly establish MOT as the duly elected APC candidate for the 2027 general election.

Party faithfuls and supporters trouped out in some communities in Oluyole Federal Constituency to rejoice and affirm over what many described as “the triumph of grassroots politics, humility, and people-centered leadership.” Party faithfuls noted that Hon. Mumeen Tajudeen’s victory reflects the trust and confidence the delegates and constituents have placed in his vision for inclusive development and effective representation.

Speaking in appreciation after emerging victorious, Hon. Mumeen Olalekan Tajudeen (MOT) expressed profound gratitude to the APC leadership, delegates, supporters, and the people of Oluyole for their unwavering support and belief in his candidacy.

“I am deeply humbled and honored by this overwhelming mandate. This victory is not mine alone, it belongs to every member of our great party and every resident of Oluyole who believes in progress, unity, and purposeful leadership. I thank Almighty God, our party leaders, delegates, and the good people of Oluyole for this trust. I pledge to remain committed to serving with sincerity, integrity, and dedication,” he said.

Hon. Tajudeen also extended his appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the national leadership of the APC, and all loyal party stakeholders whose efforts continue to strengthen democratic ideals within the party.

As at the time of filing this report , efforts made to speak to APC Spokesman in Oyo State, Olawale Sadare proven abortive as he neither responds to his calls nor replying chats.

As the members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepare to choose the party’s standard-bearer for the Oyo North Senatorial District ahead of Monday’s primary election, they carry a responsibility that extends beyond routine political calculation. Their decision will shape not only the party’s electoral fortunes in the district but also the quality of representation Oyo North may receive at a crucial moment in its political and developmental journey.

Encouragingly, the APC enters this contest with an array of accomplished aspirants, each bringing unique strengths and distinguished records of service. Among them is Chief Mrs. Hannah Ogunesan, a highly respected administrator and accomplished public servant whose years of dedicated service particularly as former Head of Service under the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi have earned her admiration across political divides. Her discipline, professionalism, and commitment to governance remain commendable, and her aspiration reflects the growing importance of experienced women in leadership.

Also in the race is Col. (Rtd.) Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, a retired military officer whose career has been shaped by discipline, patriotism, and service to the nation. His background in the armed forces, combined with his intellectual and leadership credentials, adds another important dimension to the contest. His entry into the race reinforces the depth of quality leadership available within the APC and offers members yet another capable hand to consider for the task ahead.

Yet, elections especially for legislative offices often require more than impressive credentials. They demand a careful consideration of preparedness, strategic advantage, and the capacity to deliver immediate and meaningful impact. It is within this context that many stakeholders are increasingly asking an important question: Why not Professor Adeolu Akande?

A distinguished scholar, seasoned administrator, and experienced public servant, Professor Adeolu Akande brings a profile that uniquely blends intellectual depth with practical governance experience. As a Professor of Political Science, former Chief of Staff to Governor Abiola Ajimobi, and immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), his public service journey reflects a steady commitment to policy, leadership, and development-oriented governance.

Beyond titles and credentials, his record suggests a deliberate effort to convert national opportunities into local impact. Across Oyo North, his supporters point to interventions in youth empowerment, facilitation of federal appointments, and ICT-focused training programmes aimed at preparing young people for relevance in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Educational institutions in the district have also benefited from digital infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives linked to his tenure in public office, contributions that many regard as evidence of both foresight and commitment.

These qualities may prove particularly relevant at a time when legislative representation increasingly demands more than visibility. Oyo North requires a senator capable of combining policy understanding with political access, advocacy with influence, and constituency service with strategic thinking. Professor Akande’s academic grounding and administrative experience arguably place him in a strong position to meet those expectations.

The political stakes are also significant. Whoever emerges as the APC candidate is expected to face a competitive general election, with formidable opposition likely from rival political platforms. Such a contest will demand broad appeal, grassroots trust, political maturity, and the ability to unify diverse interests behind a common purpose.

This reality, however, does not diminish the worthiness of the other aspirants. Chief Hannah Ogunesan’s longstanding contributions to public service remain deeply respected, while Col. (Rtd.) Dr. Gbenga Adegbola’s disciplined leadership and patriotic service add considerable value to the field. The strength of the APC lies partly in its ability to present voters with candidates of such calibre.

Still, as members prepare to cast their votes, they must weigh a simple but critical question: Who is best prepared for the demands of this moment?

For many observers, Professor Adeolu Akande represents a compelling answer not merely because he is qualified, but because his blend of experience, intellect, and demonstrable public service appears closely aligned with the expectations of effective senatorial leadership.

Sometimes, leadership is not only about who can contest. It is about who is most ready to serve. In that conversation, Prof. Adeolu Akande remains difficult to ignore.

This is a periodic editorial of Oduduwa News. For contact: oduduwanews1@gmail.com.

In a landmark move aimed at transforming transportation and economic integration across Nigeria’s Southwest, the Southwest Development Commission (SWDC) has secured a provisional Rail Operating and Track License from the , paving the way for the development of an expansive regional rail system connecting all six states in the zone.

The groundbreaking initiative is expected to revive several abandoned and unserved railway corridors while establishing a modern 44-city rail network that will link Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti States. The project is being described by stakeholders as one of the most ambitious regional infrastructure undertakings in recent years, with the potential to significantly boost commerce, industrial productivity, and regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

According to officials familiar with the development, the provisional license grants the Southwest Development Commission authority to begin preliminary planning, route mapping, technical assessments, and stakeholder consultations necessary for the commencement of rail operations. The proposed network is expected to connect major commercial hubs, agricultural belts, educational centers, and industrial corridors across the region, thereby improving mobility for millions of residents and businesses.

Economic analysts have welcomed the move, noting that an interconnected Southwest rail system could reduce pressure on overstretched road networks, lower transportation costs, enhance supply chain efficiency, and stimulate investments in manufacturing, tourism, and real estate. The rail project is also expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs during both construction and operational phases.

The revival of dormant rail routes is seen as particularly significant, as many communities in the Southwest have remained disconnected from Nigeria’s modern transportation reforms despite their strategic economic importance. By bringing these communities back into active transport circulation, the Commission hopes to unlock new opportunities for trade and rural development.

Observers say the development reflects the growing importance of regional development commissions as instruments for targeted growth and localized economic planning. There have been increasing calls for all geopolitical zones in Nigeria to activate and strengthen their respective development commissions, with a focus on infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable economic expansion tailored to their unique regional needs.

If successfully implemented, the Southwest rail initiative could serve as a model for other regional commissions across the country, demonstrating how coordinated sub-national development efforts can complement federal infrastructure policies and accelerate national progress.

Further details on project timelines, funding mechanisms, and implementation phases are expected to be unveiled by the Southwest Development Commission in the coming weeks.