Oduduwa News

Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim, has drawn fresh attention to the sacrifices that birthed Nigeria’s democracy, warning that current political developments in the country demand renewed vigilance from citizens and leaders alike.

In a reflective statement titled “Reminiscence: The Price of Our Democracy,” Hashim recalled his detention during the late 1980s and the global solidarity that followed, noting that Nigeria’s democratic freedoms were earned through “incarceration, tears, blood, and, for many, the ultimate price.”

His remarks come at a time of heightened national debate over governance, democratic accountability, and the direction of political leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Hashim revealed that two historical artifacts recently resurfaced, offering a vivid reminder of that era. The first, a December 1989 publication by the International Union of Students, documented an international campaign calling for his release alongside South Korean student activist Rim Suyong.

In the absence of an official photograph, the publication used an illustrative image to represent him.

The second, he said, was a handmade protest poster demanding the release of himself and his colleague, Gbenga Komolafe, who later joined him in detention, highlighting the grassroots and international dimensions of the pro-democracy movement.

Reflecting on the present, Hashim cautioned that while Nigeria has made significant progress since the return to civil rule, the ideals that fueled the struggle, freedom, justice, and accountable governance, must not be taken for granted.

“Our generation stood at the forefront of a global pro-democracy movement that swept across Africa, Eastern Europe, and Asia,” he stated, adding that the responsibility to protect and deepen democracy now rests with all Nigerians.

His comments resonate amid ongoing conversations about political reforms, electoral integrity, and citizen participation, with analysts noting that the country’s democratic institutions continue to face tests that require both leadership commitment and active civic engagement

As the world marks World Press Freedom Day under the theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” senatorial aspirant for Òyó Central in the 2027 elections, Hon. Wale Ajani, has called on media practitioners across Òyó State to remain committed to truth, accuracy, and responsible journalism, while also urging political actors to respect and honour journalists as vital partners in democracy.

In a statement issued on the occasion, Ajani said a peaceful and credible democratic future cannot be achieved without a free, independent, and responsible press.

He noted that press freedom remains central to peace, accountability, economic recovery, sustainable development, and the protection of human rights, stressing that access to reliable information helps build trust between citizens and institutions.

Ajani referenced concerns raised in UNESCO’s World Trends Report 2022–2025, which indicates that global press freedom has recorded one of its sharpest declines in recent times, driven by misinformation, intimidation, economic pressure on independent media, and the growing manipulation of information, including through emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

According to him, the danger posed by falsehood, propaganda, and media intimidation becomes even more serious as the nation gradually approaches another election cycle.

He therefore charged journalists and other media professionals across Òyó State to remain steadfast in their duty to the public by reporting truthfully, verifying facts, rejecting sensationalism, and giving citizens balanced, credible, and objective information that can strengthen public confidence in the democratic process.

Ajani said: “As we prepare for the 2027 elections, I urge media practitioners across Òyó State to continue to uphold the ethics of their profession by standing firmly on truth, fairness, and public responsibility. The media must not become a tool for distortion, division, or the spread of falsehood. At a time when misinformation can easily inflame tensions, journalists must remain courageous guardians of truth and democratic accountability.”

He also called on politicians, public office holders, aspirants, and party stakeholders to treat journalists with dignity and respect, rather than seeing them as adversaries.

“Politicians must learn to honour journalists and protect the civic space within which they operate. A healthy democracy depends on the ability of the press to ask questions, scrutinize power, and inform the people without fear, harassment, intimidation, or inducement. As we approach 2027, political leaders must commit themselves to issue-based engagement and reject every tendency that seeks to silence or manipulate the media,” he added.

Ajani maintained that both the political class and the media have a shared responsibility to promote peace before, during, and after elections, noting that democracy thrives best where truth is protected, public discourse is civil, and institutions are strengthened.

He called on all stakeholders in Òyó State to see World Press Freedom Day as an opportunity to renew commitment to ethical journalism, responsible politics, freedom of expression, and peaceful democratic participation.

“Press freedom is not only about the rights of journalists; it is about the right of the people to know the truth. If we truly want to shape a future at peace, then we must defend truth, encourage accountability, and promote mutual respect between the media and the political class,” the statement concluded.

A fresh wave of division has emerged within the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a leading governorship aspirant, Bayo Adelabu, openly rejected moves to adopt Sharafadeen Alli as the party’s consensus candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election.

Adelabu made his position known on Saturday while addressing a large gathering of party faithful at the APC meeting in Ibadan South East Local Government Area. The former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria arrived at the venue alongside a massive crowd of supporters, signaling his strong grassroots backing and determination to contest the party’s ticket.

Speaking to party members, Adelabu criticized what he described as attempts by political stakeholders to impose a candidate on the party, warning that such a move could further weaken the APC’s chances in Oyo State.

He specifically accused former governor and Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja of playing a recurring role in the party’s electoral setbacks.

“Ladoja has always been the reason progressives lose in Oyo State. It happened in 2019 and 2023. He cannot impose his political son on us in APC,” Adelabu declared, drawing loud reactions from supporters at the venue.

The development underscores growing tensions within the Oyo APC, as different factions intensify consultations ahead of the next governorship race. While some party leaders are reportedly pushing for consensus to avoid internal conflict, others, like Adelabu, insist on a level playing field through a transparent primary process.

Political observers say the latest disagreement could shape the internal dynamics of the party in the coming months, especially as the APC seeks to reclaim power from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

As the contest gradually takes shape, all eyes remain on how the party leadership will manage the emerging divisions and whether reconciliation efforts can prevent another round of internal crisis.

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede has tasked Financial Technology Companies across the country to be vigilant and insulate their networks from manipulative antics of fraudsters.

He gave the charge in Abuja on Thursday, April 30, 2026 while addressing chief executive officers, CEOs of Fintechs at an industry engagement meeting held at the corporate headquarters of the Commission.

The EFCC’s boss, while applauding the corporate executives on their strides in opening global financial space and visual asset platforms for the entire country through measurable inclusion and innovation, cautioned them against fraudsters who are exploiting the same space to perpetrate criminal activities.

‘The opportunities you have created have also given the criminals the opportunity to perpetrate crimes and over the years, we discovered that there is a need for us to meet from time to time even in the interest of your business. We will also tell you the things that we are privy to in respect of your operations and services that we think the criminals are actually exploiting and how to block those spaces and strengthen the regulatory regime around the business you do”, he said.

He called for stronger collaboration between the EFCC and the Fintechs for a sound working relationship and intelligence sharing. He enjoined the business executives to jealously guard the integrity and reputation of their businesses, stressing that good reputation easily grows businesses.

“ It has taken some of you years to get to where you are and I tell you, one transaction mishandled can destroy what you have built for ten years, you must be conscious of your reputation, that is the most valuable thing you need to grow in a business, not even the money. Once a reputation is damaged, you can hardly get it back. We want to collaborate with you, work with you and that is one of the ways to fulfil our own mandate”, he said.

He further stated that every business player in the country should always work in synergy with others in order to strengthen the regulatory regime and build strength against threats to the economy like insecurity. He particularly cautioned Fintechs to firm up their networks against terrorism financing by complying with extant regulations regarding suspicious transaction reporting.

“We have been complaining about insecurity in Nigeria, of course we are also vested with the power to investigate terrorism financing and one of the areas we have seen that these people exploit is your space, we think it is high time we did something about that. People pay ransom and we discover that most times they collect the ransom through the POS, so what can we do to tidy up this loose end, whether by virtue of doing your KYC or coming up with other ideas?”, he said.

Discussions were held on a wide-range of operational and regulatory issues, all geared towards sanitizing the working environment of Fintechs and building sterling strength against compromises and fraudulent engagements.

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have unanimously endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli as the party’s consensus governorship candidate, signaling early strategic alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision was reached at a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held in Ibadan, where prominent party chieftains, elders, and local government representatives converged to deliberate on the party’s future in the state. The meeting, described as pivotal, ended with a collective agreement to rally behind Senator Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District.

According to party insiders, the endorsement reflects growing confidence in Alli’s leadership capacity, political experience, and grassroots appeal. Leaders at the meeting emphasized the need for unity within the party, noting that presenting a consensus candidate would prevent internal divisions and strengthen APC’s chances of reclaiming power in the state.

A senior party figure, who spoke on behalf of the leaders, stated that Senator Alli possesses the administrative competence and political structure required to challenge the incumbent government. He added that the endorsement was not imposed but arrived at after extensive consultations across party structures in the state.

“Senator Alli has demonstrated loyalty, capacity, and commitment to the growth of our party. This consensus is a product of wide consultations and a reflection of the will of the majority of APC stakeholders in Oyo State,” the leader said.

In his response, Senator Alli expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to justify the trust by working towards inclusive governance and development if elected. He also called on party members to remain united and focused on the collective goal of winning the 2027 governorship election.

“I am deeply honoured by this endorsement. It is a call to greater service, and I assure our leaders and supporters that I will not take this responsibility lightly. Together, we will reposition Oyo State for sustainable growth and prosperity,” Alli said.

The endorsement is expected to reshape the political landscape within the Oyo APC, potentially discouraging other aspirants and fostering early consolidation within the party. Analysts note that while consensus candidacy may reduce internal friction, its success will depend on how well dissenting voices within the party are managed.

The development comes amid increasing political activities across Oyo State, as parties begin early maneuvering and consultations ahead of the next electoral cycle. The ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is also expected to strategize in response, setting the stage for a competitive race.

With this move, the Oyo APC appears to be prioritizing unity and early preparation, aiming to present a formidable front in its bid to return to power in the state.

Former presidential candidate and energyentrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has condemned the brutal attack on worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) No. 2 in Eda Oniyo, Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, describing the incident as shocking and deeply disturbing.

Armed bandits, reportedly numbering about seven, invaded a revival gathering at approximately 7:30 p.m., opened fire with sophisticated weapons, killed the invited pastor, and abducted no fewer than 13 worshippers.

Eyewitnesses said the attack lasted for about 40 minutes, throwing the community into chaos as residents fled for safety, leaving the area largely deserted.

Reacting to the tragedy, Hashim expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life and the abduction of innocent worshippers. He extended condolences to the family of the slain pastor, the church, and the people of Eda Oniyo and surrounding communities.

“My thoughts and prayers are with those abducted, and I stand in solidarity with their families at this painful time,” he said.

Hashim also raised concerns over the reported delay in security response despite distress calls made during the attack, noting that timely intervention could have significantly reduced the scale of the tragedy.

While acknowledging the deployment of security personnel currently combing nearby bushes in search of the abductors and victims, he stressed the need for a more proactive, intelligence-driven security architecture.

“Our communities cannot continue to live at the mercy of criminal elements. Places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, not theatres of violence,” he stated.

He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate release of the abducted victims and ensure the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and prosecuted.

Hashim further urged governments at all levels to strengthen local security frameworks, improve rapid response capabilities, and restore public confidence in the safety of lives and property.

The incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in rural communities, with residents of Eda Oniyo still gripped by fear as search operations continue.

The Management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has announced a three-week mid-semester break for students following escalating protests on campus.

In a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the decision was approved by the University Senate after demonstrations over a newly introduced transportation system turned disruptive.

According to the statement, the protests led to the obstruction of major access roads and incidents involving the harassment of other road users, raising serious concerns about safety within and around the university community.

The management noted that despite attempts to engage students and restore calm, the situation persisted, making it necessary to take decisive action to maintain order and protect lives and property.

“As part of efforts to restore normalcy and create an enabling environment for meaningful dialogue, students have been directed to proceed on a three-week mid-semester break with immediate effect and vacate their halls of residence,” the statement read.

The university added that it will continue discussions with relevant stakeholders during the break to address the issues raised by students and ensure a peaceful resolution.

Parents and guardians have been advised to make necessary arrangements for their wards, while students are urged to remain law-abiding and use the period responsibly.

The institution reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of students and the maintenance of a safe and conducive academic environment.

The Supreme Court on Thursday invalidated the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025, in a major setback for a faction of the opposition party led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, SAN.

In a split decision delivered by a five-member panel of the apex court, three justices held that the appeal filed by the Turaki-led faction lacked merit and affirmed the concurrent findings of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal against the conduct of the convention.

Justice Stephen Adah, who delivered the lead judgment in appeal number SC/CV/164/2026, held that the appellants violated a subsisting order of the Federal High Court restraining them from proceeding with the planned convention.

The apex court consequently dismissed both the appeal and cross-appeals and ordered parties to bear their respective costs.

A former presidential candidate and Energy Entrepreneur, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to positively weigh-in in the Nation’s electoral process by advising a shift in the timetable for political party primaries to September, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.

In an open letter addressed to the President, Hashim warned that the current rush toward early primaries could undermine internal party democracy and weaken the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

He stressed that Section 29(1) of the amended Electoral Act provides a broader window for parties to conduct their primaries up to mid-September, arguing that adherence to this timeline would enhance transparency, inclusiveness and fairness in the electoral process.

“The current timetable constricts the latitude of political parties to conduct their primaries. There is a need to allow sufficient time, as envisaged by law, for parties to organise credible and participatory primaries,” he stated.

The former candidate expressed concern that compressing the primary election process could fuel disputes within parties, disenfranchise aspirants and ultimately diminish public confidence in the electoral system.

While making a broader appeal for the protection of Nigeria’s democracy, Gbenga-Hashim cautioned against actions that may lead to a non-competitive electoral environment, warning that such a trend poses serious risks to the country’s democratic stability.

He recalled that Nigeria’s democratic gains were built through sacrifices made during the struggle against military rule, stressing that safeguarding political pluralism remains essential to sustaining those gains.

The letter also urged the President to promote reforms that would strengthen electoral credibility, including a review of contentious provisions in the Electoral Act and measures to ensure a level playing field for all political actors.

“That you advise the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to step aside to allow for the reconstitution of a broadly credible Electoral Commission to oversee forthcoming elections,” he stated.

Olawepo-Hashim further called for steps to enhance confidence in electoral institutions, noting that trust in the system is critical to peaceful and credible elections.

According to him, allowing political parties adequate time to conduct primaries would not only reduce tensions but also deepen internal democracy and improve the quality of candidates that emerge for elective offices.

He maintained that adjusting the timetable to align with the Electoral Act would demonstrate commitment to due process and help avert avoidable political disputes ahead of the polls.

The former presidential candidate expressed hope that the President would consider the recommendations in the interest of political stability and national cohesion.

He added that ensuring a transparent and inclusive primary process remains a key step toward credible elections and the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria.

…As NLC Chairman Confirms State’s 4th Position in Workers’ Welfare

“The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been described as one of the most forward-looking and mature Labour Unions in recent history”.

This assertion was made today by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who led the Management of the Ministry to the NLC Secretariat in Ibadan for a courtesy visit held in solidarity with workers to mark the 2027 Workers’ Day Celebrations.

Prince Oyelade said that as a young reporter he had the privilege of covering the landmark amalgamation of the Nigeria Labour Congress held at the Parliament Building in Ibadan in 1978 where Comrade Hassan Sunmonu was elected as the NLC President.

“In the past 48 years, I have interacted with various NLC leadership in the state, and I can boldly say that in terms of building a harmonious relationship between government and workers, particularly from 1999 till date, none has surpassed the current Labour Unions in Oyo State,” he stated.

The Commissioner noted that in 2019, during his inaugural Gubernatorial address , Governor Seyi Makinde pledged to ensure the prompt payment of workers’ salaries on or before the 25th of every month.

According to him, the promise was met with skepticism by many.

“However, the Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State Council not only believed in that promise but supported it fully.

As we can see, 84 months after that audacious commitment, Governor Seyi Makinde has not reneged on the promise.

Instead, he introduced the 13th-month salary and has increased workers’ salaries three times, even as the workforce expanded significantly due to unprecedented recruitment policy” He said.

Oyelade further revealed that with over 130,000 government workers, the Makinde administration now has the largest workforce not only in the South-West but also in the South-East and South-South regions.

He added that over ₦18 billion is paid monthly as salaries to government’s workers representing an increase of over 800 percent compared to the 2019 baseline.

He also stated that the administration’s internally generated revenue (IGR) of over ₦103 billion monthly is justified by the extensive infrastructure development and strategic interventions aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.

The Commissioner congratulated the Oyo State NLC on Workers’ Day and commended the Union for its sustained support for the Makinde administration.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State Council, Comrade Kayode Martins, noted that the state government under Governor Makinde has taken deliberate steps to restore dignity to retirees through structured gratuity payments and the clearance of long-standing arrears.

According to him, the government initially increased gratuity provisions to ₦1 billion. Following a request by the union for an additional ₦500 million to raise it to ₦1.5 billion, the governor further reviewed it upward to ₦3 billion annually to ensure full settlement of outstanding obligations over time.

“The Governor also promised that if by December 2026 the backlog still exists, all outstanding payments will be fully settled before May 2027,” he added.

He explained that this intervention has significantly reduced hardship among retirees, many of whom previously had to resort to legal action or endure prolonged delays before receiving their entitlements.

The NLC Chairman stated that the policy has strengthened confidence among serving workers regarding the security of their benefits upon retirement.

He also commended the administration for reabsorbing previously disengaged workers, describing it as a corrective measure to addressing past injustices, as well as for approving backlog promotions, which he said has boosted morale among civil and public servants.

Comrade Martins noted that Oyo State has set a commendable benchmark by implementing a minimum wage above the Federal benchmark of ₦70,000.

“Prior to the reforms, the state ranked 32nd nationally in key indicators of workers’ welfare, but has since risen to 4th position following the implementation of the new minimum wage and related reforms” He said.

He described the simultaneous implementation of wage increases and pension interventions as a historic milestone in Labour relations within the state, noting that it has significantly improved both workers’ welfare and productivity and further reaffirmed the commitment of workers in the state to continue supporting the administration with increased dedication and service delivery.