The internal crisis within the Accord Party has taken a new turn as 23 state chairmen of the party moved to counter opposing positions within the national leadership, insisting that Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

In a joint statement issued on Saturday, June 13, the state chairmen said they welcomed and endorsed Olawepo-Hashim’s emergence, describing it as the outcome of a democratic process and the will of party members.

The development comes amid disagreement within the party over the presidential primary process, with the state chairmen maintaining that the mandate produced through the exercise must be respected.

The chairmen said political parties derive their strength from the confidence of their members and grassroots structures, stressing that internal democracy remains central to Accord’s credibility ahead of the 2027 elections.

Sources close to the meeting disclosed that several other state chairmen who could not attend the Abuja gathering also conveyed their support for the position.

The move, led by the Lagos and Kaduna State chairmen, reportedly enjoys support from a number of key party stakeholders, including members of the National Working Committee.

The chairmen described Olawepo-Hashim as a leader with national experience, democratic credentials, and the capacity to provide a credible alternative for Nigerians.

They cited his pro-democracy background, national engagement, and economic blueprint focused on industrialisation, energy development, job creation, and unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.

The latest development has deepened the contest for control of the Accord Party structure, shifting the dispute into a broader battle over party authority, grassroots legitimacy, and the future direction of the party ahead of 2027.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo sparked laughter at the 84th birthday celebration of former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar when he humorously remarked that the celebrant would likely live to be 100 years old, but neither he nor former military ruler Yakubu Gowon would be around to witness it.

Speaking at the public presentation of three books in honour of Abdulsalami in Abuja, Obasanjo praised the retired general’s contributions to Nigeria’s political stability and democratic transition. In a light-hearted moment during his tribute, he said, “You will reach 100, but I and Gowon will not be there,” drawing laughter from guests at the event.

Beyond the joke, Obasanjo described Abdulsalami as a patriot, peacemaker, and statesman whose leadership after the death of former military ruler Sani Abacha helped guide Nigeria through a delicate period and paved the way for the return to democratic governance. He also commended other former military leaders, including Gowon and the late Murtala Mohammed, for their roles in preserving the nation and shaping its history.

The event, held to celebrate Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday, brought together prominent political leaders, diplomats, and public figures who paid tribute to his legacy of service and national unity.

An Osun State Magistrate’s Court in Osogbo has remanded a 26-year-old man, identified as Odunayo Monday, in the Ilesa Correctional Centre after he admitted to unlawfully entering the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo.

According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on June 2, 2026, when the defendant allegedly jumped over the palace fence at about 10 p.m. with the intent to commit a felony, an offence punishable under the criminal laws of Osun State. During proceedings, the accused pleaded guilty and appealed for leniency.

Explaining his actions, the defendant told the court that he only wanted to meet the monarch to seek financial and personal assistance. He pleaded for forgiveness, saying he had no criminal motive beyond asking for help.

After hearing the matter, the presiding magistrate ordered that he be remanded in custody at the Ilesa Correctional Centre and adjourned the case until June 29, 2026, for sentencing.

KISHI/IGBETI — A fresh bandit ambush along the Kishi-Igbeti road in Oyo State has left one person shot dead, triggering widespread outrage and urgent demands for immediate government intervention to secure the route.

​The brazen attack, which occurred late Friday, June 12, 2026, has further amplified regional anxieties that the vast Old Oyo National Park and its adjoining forest reserves are rapidly transforming into a fortified stronghold for bandits and kidnapping syndicates.

​During the incident, armed men operating from the forest cover opened fire on a traveling vehicle. Tragically, the gunfire resulted in the immediate death of an electricity distribution worker, widely identified by locals as Mr. Kayode, a staff member of the regional electricity company (popularly referred to as NEPA) while others are severely injured.

​Initial reports that filtered into the Igbeti community around 9:30 p.m. on Friday suggested that the targeted vehicle was returning from picking up a pilgrim who had just concluded the 2026 Hajj exercise. Oluwaseun, a presenter with the Igbeti-based local news outlet, Oloye Radio/TV, shared this account while confirming the death of the utility worker.

​However, Ayemu, a presenter from Irepo Radio in the neighboring town of Kishi, provided a cautious update. Ayemu stated that he could not independently verify if the occupants of the vehicle were indeed Hajj returnees, though he fully corroborated the report that Mr. Kayode was shot dead in the attack.

​The recurring violence along the Kishi-Igbeti corridor has led people to point to a direct link between the deteriorating security climate and unregulated economic sabotage, particularly illegal mining.

​”In my opinion, the recurring cases of kidnapping and insecurity along the Igbeti-Kishi axis of Old Oyo National Park are alarming and require urgent government intervention,” Oluwaseun of Oloye Radio/TV noted. “The abduction of four people earlier this year and recent incidents indicate a growing security threat in the area. Government should also put a stop to illegal mining activities around the axis, as they may be contributing to the insecurity. Strengthening security presence and monitoring the area closely is now essential.”

​This latest ambush is part of a disturbing pattern of violent attacks plaguing the region, indicating a severe security crisis surrounding the Old Oyo National Park:

​January 2026 Rangers Massacre: The sheer vulnerability of the park was brutally exposed earlier this year on January 6, 2026, when heavily armed bandits launched a coordinated nighttime assault on the National Park Service outpost in Oloka village. The devastating raid claimed the lives of five forest guards and was reportedly carried out to forcefully free suspected criminals detained by the rangers, underscoring the audacity of the gangs operating within the forest.

​March 2026 Abductions: Early in March 2026, four individuals were abducted by gunmen along this exact road, an incident that served as an early warning of the growing vulnerability of the route.

​Orire LGA Kidnappings: The severity of the crisis was recently underscored when the Governor of Oyo State officially confirmed that abducted schoolchildren and teachers from the Orire Local Government Area are currently being held hostage deep within the Old Oyo National Park.

​Following Friday’s fatal attack, residents across the Kishi-Igbeti axis are making demands from both state and federal governments. They are demanding immediate, sustained tactical military and police deployments to clear the forest reserves of criminal elements who are utilizing the vast terrain as a base for their operations.

Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor, dramatist, filmmaker, and scholar, Dr. Kola Oyewo, who passed away at the age of 80.

Dr. Oyewo, widely celebrated for his unforgettable role in the acclaimed Nigerian film Saworoide, was regarded as one of the pioneers of contemporary Nigerian theatre and a respected figure in the country’s cultural and academic circles.

The news of his death was announced on Friday by fellow actor Kunle Afod, who paid glowing tribute to the late theatre icon for his immense contributions to the growth of theatre arts and filmmaking in Nigeria.

Over the course of a distinguished career spanning several decades, Oyewo earned admiration for his outstanding performances on stage and screen, as well as his commitment to mentoring younger generations of actors. His work helped shape the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry and inspired countless practitioners across the country.

Beyond acting, the late thespian was also known for his scholarly contributions to theatre studies, combining academic excellence with artistic creativity throughout his lifetime.

His portrayal in Saworoide, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated political drama films, remains one of his most enduring legacies and cemented his status as a household name among movie lovers.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans, and cultural stakeholders, who described him as a gifted performer, dedicated educator, and a towering figure in Nigerian theatre.

Dr. Kola Oyewo’s passing marks the end of an era for the Nigerian creative industry, leaving behind a rich legacy that will continue to influence generations of actors, filmmakers, and scholars.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Member representing Ibarapa East State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has concluded a 3day constituency wide engagement, consultation and stewardship tour across Eruwa and Lanlate, where he highlighted achievements of the Oyo State Government, unveiled the Allied People’s Movement (APM) to constituents, and empowered party faithful.

The extensive engagement, which ran from Wednesday to Friday, provided the Speaker an opportunity to meet with key stakeholders, traditional institutions, political leaders, elders, grassroots supporters and transport unions across the constituency.

The consultation tour formed part of efforts to strengthen political participation, deepen grassroots engagement and update constituents on ongoing government projects and development initiatives affecting Ibarapa East.

During the three-day exercise, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin held separate meetings with the Councils of Elders in Eruwa and Lanlate towns, consulted with party stalwarts and local political leaders, visited members of the Park Management System in both towns and paid homage to the Onilala of Lanlate as part of continuous engagement with traditional institutions.

A major highlight of the programme was the empowerment of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) executives in the constituency.

The Speaker presented cash gifts of N50,000 each to 120 former local government party executives drawn from the ten wards in Ibarapa East Local Government Area, with 12 beneficiaries selected from each ward.

In addition, four loyal party members were presented with brand-new motorcycles in recognition of their dedication, commitment and unwavering support to the party over the years.

Addressing constituents at various engagements, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin formally introduced the Allied People’s Movement (APM), the new political platform of the ruling government in Oyo State, to the people of Ibarapa East, and informed residents that he would be contesting the 2027 House of Assembly election under the platform of the new party.

He urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to the ideals of good governance, noting that the progress recorded by the present administration in Oyo State must be sustained.

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin also used the consultations to give an account of his stewardship as a lawmaker and to highlight major projects and programmes of the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde.

Among the development projects announced by the Speaker was the approval of two major road rehabilitation projects in Lanlate by the state government.

According to him, the projects include the rehabilitation of the Ipa–First Baptist–Old Garage–Itabo Road and the Agasha–Bioku Grammar School–Olorunsogo Road, both of which are expected to improve transportation, enhance economic activities and ease movement within the community.

The Speaker assured residents that the state government remained committed to equitable development across all parts of Oyo State, including rural communities in Ibarapa East.

The consultations attracted several prominent APM leaders and stakeholders in the constituency, including Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Hon. Moses Ojoawo, Hon. Dimeji Oladapo, Prince Biodun Labiyi, Prince Wole Opadeye, Alhaji Ganiyu Aderibigbe, Chairman of Ibarapa East Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Arogundade, Hon. Kunle Olalowo, Hon. Gbenga Obalowo, Alhaji Sikiru Adebisi, Hon. Debodun Adepoju and Alhaji Akeem Akintola, popularly known as Kuso, among other political functionaries and ward executives.

In Lanlate, members of the Elders Council who participated in the engagement included the Chairman of the Council, Chief Agbo Adeyemo, Chief Timothy Jolaosho, Chief Sunday Abegunde and other respected community leaders.

Similarly, the Eruwa Council of Elders meeting was led by its Chairman, Elder Samuel Oladeni, alongside notable members including Chief T.A. Fadairo, Chief J.A. Peluola, Deacon Sunday Samuel, Pastor Opakunle, Mrs. Lawal, Chief Isiaka Abolade and Deacon Bimbo Olaniyan.

Stakeholders who attended the various meetings commended the Speaker for maintaining close contact with constituents and for continuously providing updates on government policies, projects and programmes affecting the people of Ibarapa East.

Leaders, stakeholders, and longstanding members of the Accord Party in Osun State, including executives who were in the party long before Governor Ademola Adeleke joined its ranks, on Wednesday reaffirmed their support for Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, insisting that no external influence can override the will of party members.

The declaration was made at a rally in Osogbo attended by party leaders, women groups, youth supporters, and grassroots members from across the state.

Speaking on behalf of the party, Daniel Adedayo said the gathering was convened to formally reaffirm Olawepo-Hashim’s mandate and send a clear message that Accord members in Osun remain firmly behind his presidential aspiration.

According to him, Olawepo-Hashim possesses the vision, experience, and national appeal required to provide the leadership Nigeria needs at this critical moment.

“Our gathering here today is to reaffirm our support for Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate. He is the man Nigerians are waiting for, and we are ready to stand with him all the way,” Adedayo said.

The party leaders rejected suggestions that support for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid in the August 15 governorship election should translate into abandoning the party’s presidential ambition.

“Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains our presidential candidate. Nobody can trade away a mandate freely given by party members. The governorship election and the presidential election are separate matters,” Adedayo declared.

Also speaking, the party’s Women Leader, Rukayat Olanrewaju, described Olawepo-Hashim’s emergence as a reflection of the confidence party members have in his leadership, integrity, and vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria.

She said party members in Osun State remain resolute in their support for his candidacy and would continue to mobilise grassroots support for his campaign ahead of the 2027 election.

Hundreds of supporters waved banners and placards in support of Olawepo-Hashim, chanting slogans and declaring their loyalty to what they described as the party’s authentic presidential mandate.

The stakeholders urged the national leadership of the party to respect the wishes of members and uphold the principles of internal democracy, insisting that the mandate given to Olawepo-Hashim cannot be negotiated, substituted, or surrendered to external political interests.

The rally comes amid ongoing controversy over the Accord Party’s presidential nomination process, with supporters maintaining that Olawepo-Hashim remains the validly elected and widely accepted choice of party members across the country.

IBADAN – Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that the state government and security agencies are working relentlessly to secure the safe release of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.

In a message addressed to the people of Oyo State, the governor acknowledged the pain and anxiety caused by the prolonged captivity of the victims, noting that 27 days had passed since they were taken by their abductors.

Makinde said he understood that repeated assurances from the government might seem inadequate in the absence of visible results but stressed that every available lawful measure was being pursued to ensure the victims return home safely.

He explained that while operational details could not be disclosed for security reasons, authorities continued to follow every credible lead and remained committed to achieving a successful rescue.

The governor disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the abducted children and teachers were still within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast area spanning parts of 10 local government areas and covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.

According to him, the difficult terrain and expansive nature of the area have made rescue operations particularly challenging, requiring patience, coordination and sustained efforts by security personnel.

Makinde appealed to residents across the state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, which operates around the clock.

He also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts, encouraging them instead to rely on official updates.

The governor expressed solidarity with the families of the victims, assuring them that their loved ones had not been forgotten and remained the government’s top priority.

He further called on residents to continue praying for the safe return of the abducted children and teachers while supporting security agencies in their efforts to bring the ordeal to a successful conclusion.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has directed police commands across Nigeria to immediately intensify enforcement against vehicles operating without valid registration number plates or with concealed, altered, defaced, or otherwise obscured plates.

According to the IGP, the increasing number of vehicles on Nigerian roads without proper identification poses a serious threat to public safety and national security. He noted that criminals often exploit unregistered or disguised vehicles to evade detection while carrying out offences such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.

Under the directive, Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders, and Heads of Formations nationwide have been instructed to stop and impound any vehicle found without approved registration plates or with tampered identification marks. Such vehicles and their owners are expected to face appropriate legal procedures in line with existing laws.

The police leadership emphasized that displaying a valid number plate is a legal requirement and an important tool for crime prevention, intelligence gathering, and effective law enforcement. The IGP warned that the new enforcement campaign would apply equally to all motorists, with no exemptions or preferential treatment.

The Nigeria Police Force also urged vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are properly registered and that their number plates remain clearly visible and untampered to avoid sanctions during the nationwide operation.

The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), alongside several civil society organisations and community groups, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over what they describe as the slow pace of efforts to rescue more than 40 students and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State.

The criticism comes weeks after gunmen attacked schools in the Oriire Local Government Area, kidnapping dozens of pupils and seven teachers. The incident has sparked widespread concern among parents, labour unions, and residents, with calls intensifying for urgent government intervention.

At a public demonstration, OPC members and civil society activists accused both the federal and state governments of failing to act swiftly enough to secure the victims’ freedom. Protesters urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and demanded greater transparency regarding the progress of efforts to locate the abductees.

The prolonged captivity of the victims has also triggered industrial action. The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers declared an indefinite strike across public primary and secondary schools, arguing that teachers and pupils cannot continue learning under such conditions of insecurity.

Governor Makinde has appealed for patience and support, stating that the federal, state, and local governments are collaborating with security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers. He has urged the public to avoid assigning blame while rescue efforts continue and reiterated that the safety of residents remains a priority.

The mass abduction has renewed national debate over insecurity in Nigeria and increased pressure on authorities to strengthen the protection of schools and vulnerable communities. Parents, unions, and advocacy groups continue to call for the immediate and safe release of all those still being held captive.