Oduduwa News

Fresh indications of a possible realignment within Nigeria’s opposition political landscape emerged on Friday as the presidential candidate of the Accord Party, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, received his Social Democratic Party (SDP) counterpart, Prince Adewole Adebayo, amid intensifying consultations among leading pro-democracy figures ahead of the 2027 general election.

The meeting, held in Abuja, is the latest in a series of strategic engagements involving presidential candidates and political leaders with long records in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle and a shared commitment to centre-left political ideals.

Highly placed sources disclosed that the consultations are exploring avenues for democratic cooperation, institutional reforms and a coordinated response to what participants describe as the growing constraints on Nigeria’s democratic space.

The latest engagement comes as discussions between Dr. Hashim and the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, have also intensified, fuelling speculation that a broader pro-democracy platform may be taking shape ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to sources, the talks are driven by concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, the future of opposition politics and the need to build a credible national alternative, capable of defending constitutional governance, electoral integrity and democratic freedoms.

Although details of the consultations remain closely guarded, insiders said the conversations have gone beyond routine political meetings and are increasingly focused on long-term cooperation among political leaders who share similar democratic values and reform agendas.

The consultations come months after Dr. Hashim, alongside leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), launched the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR), a national platform established to promote democratic renewal, strengthen institutions and mobilise citizens around governance reforms.

Promoters of the movement argue that Nigeria’s democratic institutions have suffered serious setbacks arising from persistent internal crises within political parties and declining public confidence in electoral and governance institutions, making broad based democratic reforms an urgent national priority. Hashim Co-Chairs MDR with NLC President, Comrade Ajero, one of the last standing trade Unionist with clear ideological clarity in the Trade Union Movement.

While none of the political leaders has publicly disclosed the full scope of the ongoing consultations, sources confirmed that engagements with other opposition presidential candidates, civil society leaders and pro-democracy stakeholders are expected to continue in the coming weeks.

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a man, identified as Amos Paul, for allegedly burning the private part of his 10-year-old daughter with a hot pressing iron as punishment for bedwetting.

The incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation, reportedly occurred at the family’s residence in Ondo State. According to police sources, the suspect allegedly inflicted the injury on the child after accusing her of repeatedly wetting the bed.

The victim was said to have sustained serious injuries and was immediately taken to a medical facility for treatment after the incident came to light.
The arrest followed a report made to the police by concerned individuals, prompting officers to intervene and take the suspect into custody for investigation.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the arrest, stating that the case is under investigation and assuring the public that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The command also reiterated its commitment to protecting children from all forms of abuse and urged members of the public to promptly report cases of child abuse, neglect, or domestic violence to the appropriate authorities.

Child rights advocates have condemned the alleged act, describing it as cruel and unacceptable. They stressed that bedwetting is a common childhood condition that should be addressed with medical evaluation, patience, and appropriate guidance rather than physical punishment.

Police say further updates will be provided as investigations progress.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the extension of the one-day-off-duty work palliative for eligible public and civil servants in the state. The Governor has also approved the payment of a ₦10,000 monthly transport allowance for an additional three months, covering July to September 2026.

The measures are aimed at cushioning the impact of transportation costs on workers and motivating them to continue delivering efficient and excellent service to the people of Ogun State.

It will be recalled that Governor Abiodun had earlier approved the palliative measures for the period of April to June 2026 in response to the increase in the pump price of petrol.

Under the renewed arrangement, the one-day-off-duty concession will not apply to officers on shift duties or personnel providing essential services. These include medical personnel, judicial service workers, teaching and non-teaching staff in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, security personnel, political office holders, accounting officers, directors, as well as other officers receiving Special Responsibility Allowances because of the nature of their responsibilities, which require their physical presence at work.

A circular issued by the State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Iskeel Olanrewaju Saka, mni, urged all eligible workers to make the most of the arrangement while ensuring that service delivery is not compromised.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of workers and pledged to continue implementing policies that enhance productivity while easing the economic burden on the workforce.

The Nigerian Senate has just passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, significantly increasing penalties for traffic offences, including imposing a N50,000 fine on anyone caught hawking, trading or preaching in commercial buses.

The amendment, which is awaiting presidential assent, also prescribes a N50,000 fine or six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who fail to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.

The bill, titled Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment), 2026 (HBs. 1401 & 1604 – For Concurrence), was first read in the Senate on July 1, 2026.

Under the new provisions, anyone found hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles commits an offence and, upon conviction, will be liable to a N50,000 fine.

The amendment also raises the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from N5,000 to N100,000, with offenders also facing up to two years’ imprisonment or both.

Similarly, motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC personnel conducting preliminary roadside breath tests based upon reasonable suspicion will face a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.

The amended Act also prescribes a N100,000 fine for motorists who fail to obey traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings, or other traffic control devices.

Speed limit violations, previously punishable with a N5,000 fine, will now attract N100,000, while reckless driving also carries a N100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.

The revised schedule of offences under the Act lists 52 traffic violations and their corresponding penalties.

IBADAN – The Oyo State Executive Council under the administration of Engr. Seyi Makinde has approved a series of strategic projects and investments aimed at boosting agriculture, healthcare, transportation, industrialization and sports development across the state, with a ₦3 billion interest-free intervention loan for an indigenous cassava processing factory in Ado-Awaye topping the list.

The decisions were reached during the State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

The Council approved an interest-free loan of ₦3 billion for the indigenous cassava processing factory located in Ado-Awaye, a move expected to strengthen the state’s agricultural value chain and reinforce Oyo’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading cassava-producing states.

According to the government, the intervention will benefit more than 25,000 cassava farmers, create employment opportunities, stimulate rural economic activities and increase the production of cassava flour and other value-added products.

In another major approval, the Council sanctioned an additional ₦2.462 billion as government equity investment towards the commissioning and commencement of commercial operations at Oyo Sugar and Derivatives Industries Limited in Iseyin. The approval follows an earlier equity investment of ₦850 million released by the state government to facilitate the revitalisation and completion of the sugar processing factory.

The Executive Council also approved the construction of the 4-kilometre Idi-Igba/Akinmorin Road in Ilora, Afijio Local Government Area, at a cost of ₦2.901 billion. The government said the project is expected to improve road connectivity, promote economic activities and accelerate socio-economic development within the benefiting communities.

To further enhance aviation infrastructure, the Council approved an additional ₦26.768 billion for the ongoing upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan. The approval covers revised engineering works, including the construction of a 140-metre runway strip, runway safety area, blast pad, additional pipe covers and other ancillary facilities required to meet operational standards.

In the health sector, the Council approved the implementation of the Healthcare Initiative Project, which will be financed through a €55 million French loan guaranteed by the Federal Government.

The project will provide for the modular construction and equipping of modern healthcare facilities, including a Cardiac Centre, Emergency and Maternity Centres, Operating Theatres and Intensive Care Units (ICUs). It also includes the procurement of 39 ambulances, establishment of 10 dental centres, upgrading of 200 Primary Healthcare Centres, and the provision of emergency and maternity facilities in hospitals across Igboora, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Moniya, Kishi, Iseyin, Okeho and Eruwa.

The Council also approved an initial take-off grant of ₦200 million for Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) to strengthen the club’s campaign for continental success, as the Oluyole Warriors seek to reclaim continental honours after a 27-year wait.

The approvals, according to the state government, reflect Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to driving economic growth, improving public infrastructure, strengthening healthcare delivery, supporting agriculture and industries, and repositioning Oyo State for sustainable development.

The Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency (OYSROMA), Hon. Busoye Ogunlade, has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for approving the construction of the 4-kilometre Idi-Igba–Akinmorin Road in Ilora, Afijio Local Government Area, describing the project as another testament to the administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructure development across Oyo State.

Speaking with journalists on Thursday following the official announcement of the State Executive Council’s resolutions by the Commissioner for Information, Ogunlade also expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for entrusting OYSROMA with the execution of the project, saying the decision underscores the governor’s confidence in the agency’s capacity to deliver quality and durable road infrastructure.

According to him, the road project will significantly improve connectivity among communities in the area, facilitate the movement of people and goods, boost commercial activities, and enhance the overall socio-economic wellbeing of residents.

He assured that OYSROMA would justify the confidence reposed in it by executing the project in strict compliance with approved specifications while ensuring timely completion.

“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for approving the construction of the 4-kilometre Idi-Igba–Akinmorin Road and, more importantly, for entrusting OYSROMA with the responsibility of executing the project. This clearly demonstrates his confidence in the agency’s ability to deliver quality infrastructure that will positively impact the lives of the people of Oyo State,” Ogunlade said.

The OYSROMA chairman further pledged that the agency would not disappoint either the governor or the people of the state, stressing that every necessary step would be taken to ensure the successful delivery of the project.

“We will not betray the confidence reposed in us by Governor Makinde. OYSROMA remains fully committed to delivering a high-quality road project that will stand the test of time and meet the expectations of both the government and the benefiting communities,” he added.

The approval for the project was granted during the State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday. The Council approved the construction of the 4-kilometre Idi-Igba–Akinmorin Road in Ilora, Afijio Local Government Area, at a cost of ₦2,900,715,000, noting that the project is expected to stimulate economic activities, improve accessibility, and drive sustainable development in the benefiting communities.

The political momentum behind the presidential aspiration of Dr. Gbenga Hashim was on full display on Tuesday as hundreds of Accord Party members and supporters thronged the Federal High Court in Abuja in a strong show of solidarity with the party’s presidential hopeful.

Supporters converged on the court premises, surrounding Gbenga Hashim on arrival and remaining at the venue throughout the proceedings, as the legal battle over the Accord Party’s 2027 presidential ticket entered another critical stage.

Although Dr. Hashim did not address the gathering, the large turnout underscored the depth of grassroots support for his bid to reclaim what he maintains is the presidential mandate he validly secured at the party’s May 30, 2026, primary election.

The suit, instituted against the Accord Party and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was adjourned for 24 hours after both defendants served fresh court processes on Hashim’s legal team shortly before the hearing commenced.

Counsel to the plaintiff informed the court that the documents had only just been received and requested time to study and respond to the new filings before the substantive hearing could proceed.

The trial judge subsequently adjourned the matter until 10:00 a.m. Wednesday for hearing.

At the heart of the dispute is Gbenga Hashim’s claim that he lawfully emerged as the sole aspirant and winner of the Accord Party’s presidential primary but that the party failed to transmit his name to INEC in accordance with the Electoral Act and the party’s obligations.

Through the suit, Hashim is asking the court to affirm him as the Accord Party’s lawful presidential candidate for the 2027 general election and compel the party to submit his name to INEC having been affirmed at the Presidential Primaries held on 30th June 2026.

In the alternative, he seeks an order directing the conduct of a fresh presidential primary should the court decline to grant the principal relief.

Hashim maintains that he fulfilled every constitutional and statutory requirement for the nomination process, including payment of the prescribed ₦50 million nomination fee, while insisting that the presidential primary was duly monitored by INEC officials.

The overwhelming presence of Accord supporters at the Federal High Court added a political dimension to the legal contest, signalling that Hashim’s presidential aspiration continues to command significant support within the party as the battle over the ticket moves into its decisive phase.

One of the rescued Oyo schoolchildren was found to have a hole in the heart after undergoing medical examinations at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital.

Doctors say the child’s parents had no idea the congenital heart defect existed until the post-rescue health assessment.

While 31 of the 39 rescued pupils have now been discharged and reunited with their families, eight children remain under medical observation to ensure they make a full recovery.

Sometimes, even in the aftermath of tragedy, hidden battles come to light. Wishing every one of these children a complete recovery.

Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Toba Ijaya, the Organising Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Lagos State Council, has died after succumbing to injuries sustained in a suspected assassination attempt by gunmen.

Ajiboye was attacked on Sunday night, July 12, while returning home from the Fadeyi area of Lagos. Gunmen intercepted his vehicle along the Ikorodu Road axis near Fadeyi and opened fire, riddling the car with bullets.

He was rushed to a medical facility for treatment but passed away on Tuesday morning, July 14.

The NURTW Lagos State Chairman, Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, confirmed the death in an emotional tribute, describing the deceased as a “trusted friend and pillar” of the union’s leadership team.

“Toba was more than a colleague; he was a reliable ally who contributed immensely to the union,” Sego was quoted as saying.
The incident has triggered tension in Mushin, Fadeyi, and surrounding areas, with heavy police presence reported as authorities work to prevent possible retaliation.

The NURTW has a well-documented history of violent internal power struggles, raising concerns among residents and security agencies.

Initial reports suggested Ajiboye had survived the attack and was receiving treatment, sparking relief among union members and associates.

However, fresh updates on Tuesday confirmed his demise, sending shockwaves through the transport union and political circles in Lagos.

Social media platforms were awash with tributes and unverified speculations linking the attack to broader rivalries, including past incidents involving cult groups.

However, no official motive has been established, and the Lagos State Police Command is yet to issue a detailed statement on arrests or ongoing investigations.

Ajiboye, a prominent figure from Mushin, was known for his grassroots influence within the NURTW.

His death comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Lagos, as the union continues to play a significant role in the state’s transportation politics.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has explained the rationale behind his call on the United Nations (UN) and other international human rights and accountability organisations to investigate the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The governor said the request was aimed at ensuring an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, identifying those responsible, and strengthening measures to prevent similar attacks on schools and vulnerable communities.

Speaking during an engagement on the tragic incident, Makinde noted that while security agencies worked tirelessly to secure the release of the victims, it was equally important to establish the facts surrounding the kidnapping and hold all perpetrators accountable.

According to him, involving international bodies would enhance transparency, promote global attention to the security challenges affecting schools, and reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the rights of children and ensuring access to safe education.

Makinde stressed that the abduction, which kept dozens of pupils and teachers in captivity for several weeks before their eventual rescue, should not be treated as an isolated incident but as a matter requiring comprehensive scrutiny and lasting solutions.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security across Oyo State through sustained collaboration with the military, police, other security agencies, local communities, and intelligence networks.

The governor also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, security operatives, local vigilantes, and all stakeholders whose coordinated efforts contributed to the successful rescue of the victims.

Makinde assured residents that his government would continue investing in security infrastructure, intelligence gathering, and community policing initiatives to safeguard lives and property across the state.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information, and support ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities.

The governor’s remarks come in the wake of the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that sparked widespread concern across Oyo State and the country. A video of his explanation has since generated significant public discussion on social media.