Oduduwa News

The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed claims that Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo (Sunday Igboho) played any role in the alleged release of kidnapped victims in Igboho, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The controversy followed reports and viral videos suggesting that the abducted victims regained their freedom shortly after Sunday Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum to suspected kidnappers and Fulani community leaders in the area. Residents were seen celebrating what was believed to be the victims’ release.

However, the police said there is no official confirmation that the victims have been rescued and insisted that there is no evidence linking Igboho to any rescue operation. According to the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, reports attributing the victims’ release to the activist remain unverified and should not be treated as factual.

The police further stated that the Commissioner of Police had not confirmed any involvement by Igboho in securing the release of the abductees. Authorities urged the public to rely only on verified information from official channels while investigations and rescue efforts continue.

Adding to the uncertainty, the Chairman of Oorelope Local Government, Jacob Ogundiran, also refuted reports that the victims had regained freedom, maintaining that they were still in captivity as of Sunday and that security agencies were actively working toward their safe rescue.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, securing a second term in office. The declaration was made at the INEC State Collation Centre in Ado-Ekiti after the completion of results collation from the state’s 16 local government areas.

Oyebanji recorded victories across several local government areas, including Ido/Osi and Ekiti South-West, maintaining a commanding lead over his closest challengers, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Dr. Wole Oluyede, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Ambassador Dare Bejide.

The election, conducted on Saturday across 2,445 polling units in the state, witnessed the participation of 14 political parties. INEC officials collated results from polling units to ward and local government levels before the final state collation in Ado-Ekiti.

With the victory, Oyebanji has successfully renewed his mandate as governor, extending APC’s control of the South-West state. The election outcome is being viewed by political observers as a strong endorsement of his administration’s performance over the past four years.

The official breakdown of votes from all 16 local government areas is expected to be released by INEC as part of its comprehensive election report.

Political leaders, supporters, and stakeholders have begun congratulating the governor-elect while urging all parties to maintain peace and respect the democratic process.

Yoruba Nation activist and youth leader, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as , has issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in Igboho, Oyo State, demanding the immediate release of residents allegedly abducted by suspected bandits.

Speaking on Saturday at the palace of the town’s monarch in Igboho, located in the Oke-Ogun axis of Oyo State, Igboho expressed outrage over the reported kidnapping of local residents on Friday, warning that failure to secure their release within the stipulated period could lead to a confrontation between affected communities and those suspected to be harbouring the abductors.

Addressing Fulani elders during the meeting, the activist said the continuous cases of kidnapping and insecurity in the area had become unbearable, stressing that residents could no longer tolerate attacks on innocent people. He urged the elders to use their influence to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims without delay.

According to him, community leaders and security stakeholders have repeatedly raised concerns over criminal activities in parts of the Oke-Ogun region, yet incidents of abduction continue to occur. He maintained that local communities deserve protection and should be able to go about their daily activities without fear.

Igboho warned that if the victims were not released within two hours, the situation could escalate into a crisis, declaring, “We will clash,” while insisting that those responsible for the abductions must be held accountable.

The meeting reportedly drew the attention of traditional leaders, community members and security observers, who appealed for calm and urged all parties to pursue lawful means of resolving the situation.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from security agencies regarding the ultimatum, while efforts to confirm the status of the abducted residents were ongoing.

The latest development has heightened concerns over security in the Oke-Ogun area, where residents have repeatedly called for stronger measures to curb kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes threatening lives and livelihoods.

The Accord Party in Ekiti State has reaffirmed its support for the presidential ambition of Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring its readiness to mobilise massive grassroots support for his candidacy across the state.

The declaration was made during the party’s governorship rally in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, attended by party leaders, women groups, youth supporters, and grassroots members from across Ekiti State.

Speaking at the rally, the Ekiti State Chairman of the Accord Party, Philip Adeniji, said the gathering was a demonstration of the party’s unity, commitment, and preparedness for the coming elections.

Adeniji stated that party members remain firmly behind Olawepo-Hashim as the party’s presidential candidate, describing him as the leader capable of providing a new direction for Nigeria.

“We gathered here today to reaffirm Olawepo-Hashim as our presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, and we are throwing our full weight behind him.

“He remains our candidate, and nobody can change that. We will work for him, and we are confident that he will emerge victorious,” he said.

The party chairman further declared that Dr. Gbenga Hashim possesses the capacity to rescue Nigeria from what he described as the failures of the current administration.

“Hashim will rescue Nigeria from the misgovernance and hardship Nigerians are experiencing under the ruling party and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Adeniji stated.

Also speaking, the Southwest Coordinator of the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement, Alhaji Olaniru Abass, described the rally as evidence of the growing acceptance of Olawepo-Hashim’s political message across the region.
According to him, Hashim combines experience, vision, and national appeal required to lead Nigeria at a critical period.

“Our gathering here today is to reaffirm our support for Hashim as the candidate of the Accord Party. He is the leader many Nigerians are waiting for, and we are prepared to support his emergence,” he said.

The Ekiti State Women Leader of the party, Funmilayo Adeyeye, said women across the state remain committed to grassroots mobilisation for the candidate and urged the party’s national leadership to continue strengthening support for his presidential campaign.

Similarly, party leader Samuel Abiola said the emergence of Olawepo-Hashim reflects confidence in his leadership qualities and vision for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.

The state campaign coordinator, Sunday Dada, said the mandate given to Olawepo-Hashim by party members would not be compromised or surrendered to external interests.

Participants at the rally displayed banners and placards in support of the Accord Party presidential candidate, reaffirming their commitment to his 2027 campaign.

The founder of Oriyomi Hamzat and prominent Ibadan-based broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat, has alleged that there are plans by unnamed individuals to demolish the premises of Agidigbo FM, raising concerns among supporters and stakeholders in Oyo State.

Speaking during a live broadcast, Hamzat claimed that he had received credible information suggesting that efforts were being made to target the media organization through a demolition exercise. According to him, the alleged move is connected to recent political and social developments in the state.

The broadcaster expressed concern that the station, which he described as a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of ordinary Nigerians, could be under threat. He maintained that Agidigbo FM has consistently promoted justice, accountability, and public interest journalism since its establishment.

Hamzat urged relevant authorities to clarify any plans concerning the property and appealed to residents of Oyo State to remain peaceful while supporting lawful processes. He also called on civil society groups, media practitioners, and democratic institutions to remain vigilant against any action capable of undermining press freedom.

The allegation has generated reactions across social and political circles, with supporters of the broadcaster expressing solidarity and urging the government to address the concerns raised.

As of the time of filing this report, the Oyo State Government had not issued an official statement specifically responding to the allegation of a planned demolition of Agidigbo FM. However, the state government has recently carried out demolitions of properties linked to criminal activities as part of its security measures.

The development comes amid heightened political activities in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 governorship election, for which Hamzat has already declared his intention to contest.

…Says Diplomacy Remains Key to Global Stability

Dakar, Senegal — The Presidential Candidate of the Accord Party and Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has welcomed the agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending hostilities and restoring stability in the Middle East.

Speaking during a short visit to Dakar, Senegal, Dr. Hashim commended the governments and international partners whose diplomatic efforts helped create the conditions for dialogue and a peaceful resolution of tensions.

“I welcome the agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the conflict and restoring stability to the Middle East,” he said.
“I commend President Donald Trump, the Governments of Iran, Qatar and Pakistan, alongside other international partners whose efforts helped create the conditions for peace ,” he added.

Dr. Hashim, a global energy executive with longstanding involvement in international affairs and recipient of the prestigious Lord Max Berlof Prize for Global Affairs in 2009, noted that diplomacy has once again demonstrated its value as the most effective tool for resolving complex international disputes at a time of increasing global uncertainty.

According to him, stability in the Middle East carries implications far beyond the region, affecting global security, energy markets, international trade, investment flows, and economic growth.
“Stability in the Middle East is important not only for the region, but also for global security, energy markets, trade, and economic development,” he stated.

“The world’s economies are interconnected, and disruptions in one region often create consequences across continents.”
The Accord Party presidential candidate stressed that Nigeria and the African continent have a significant stake in a peaceful and predictable international order. He urged nations to continue supporting initiatives that promote dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding as pathways to lasting peace.

“A peaceful international environment creates better opportunities for development. Nigeria and Africa must continue to support efforts that advance peace, cooperation, and stability among nations,” he added.

Dr. Hashim expressed optimism that the agreement would contribute to reducing tensions in the Middle East and strengthen international efforts toward peaceful coexistence, economic stability, and shared prosperity.

The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently refocus his administration on addressing Nigeria’s worsening security and economic challenges or consider stepping aside if unable to deliver effective leadership.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the caucus expressed concern over what it described as deepening insecurity across the country, persistent economic hardship, growing public dissatisfaction, and alleged threats to democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The lawmakers argued that many Nigerians are grappling with rising inflation, unemployment, poverty, and insecurity, while confidence in public institutions continues to decline. They also raised concerns about judicial controversies and developments they believe could undermine democratic principles and the rule of law.

According to the caucus, the federal government must prioritize the protection of lives and property, implement policies that ease economic hardship, and strengthen democratic governance. The lawmakers maintained that Nigerians deserve accountable leadership capable of addressing the country’s pressing challenges.

The opposition legislators urged the President to take decisive steps to restore public confidence, improve security nationwide, stabilize the economy, and ensure that democratic processes remain transparent and credible as the country approaches another election cycle.

They stressed that the government must place the welfare of citizens above political considerations, warning that failure to adequately address the nation’s challenges could further deepen public frustration and erode trust in governance.

Former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, has officially declared his support for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s second-term bid after severing ties with the APC.

The political heavyweight made his position known ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election, signaling a major shift in the state’s political landscape.

Omisore’s endorsement is expected to boost Governor Adeleke’s re-election campaign as political alignments continue to take shape ahead of the polls.

Popular social media activist and commentator Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), led a protest in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

The protesters marched through parts of the state capital before converging on the residence of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, demanding intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release. The demonstration drew youths, residents, and concerned citizens who expressed frustration over the prolonged abduction ordeal.

Addressing the protesters, Governor Makinde assured residents that his administration was working closely with security agencies to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice. He urged the public to remain calm and continue supporting ongoing security operations rather than taking actions that could jeopardize rescue efforts.

VDM, while speaking during the protest, called on government authorities and security agencies to act with greater urgency, stressing that the lives and welfare of the abducted children should remain a national priority. The protest highlighted growing public concern over insecurity and school-related kidnappings in parts of the country.

The demonstration ended peacefully after Governor Makinde’s engagement with the protesters, though participants maintained that they would continue advocating for the victims until they regain their freedom.

LAGOS — In a major relief to Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a significant N75 per litre reduction in the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.

In a formal circular issued to fuel marketers, the refinery confirmed that the new depot price has been dropped from ₦1,250 to ₦1,175 per litre. The downward review, which took effect at midnight on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, also saw the coastal price per metric tonne slashed from ₦1,595,790 to ₦1,495,215.

According to the management of the 650,000-barrel-per-day facility, the price cut is a direct response to the recent de-escalation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a subsequent decline in international crude oil prices.

“Following the de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East, which has impacted energy prices, we wish to inform you that we have reviewed our premium motor spirit gantry/coastal price,” the circular read in part. “Kindly note that all outstanding unloaded gantry volumes will be repriced at the new rate effective 12:00 AM, June 16, 2026.”

The sharp drop in domestic fuel prices mirrors significant movements in the global oil market. Crude oil, the primary feedstock for fuel production, had skyrocketed past $120 per barrel during the three-month conflict between the United States and Iran, dragging local pump prices in Nigeria from around ₦830 to as high as ₦1,300 per litre.

However, the international market experienced a sharp correction on Monday following the historic announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the signing of a ceasefire agreement with Iran. The landmark deal, which officially ended hostilities and reopened the critical Strait of Hormuz, immediately sent Brent crude prices tumbling from $83 per barrel

With the Dangote Refinery currently offering the most competitive petrol rates in the country, the N75 reduction is expected to trigger a corresponding drop in retail pump prices at filling stations nationwide, provided independent marketers pass the savings on to consumers.

While industry speculations suggest that petrol prices could eventually plunge to as low as ₦900 per litre if global crude prices continue to stabilize, officials remain cautiously optimistic. A representative from the Dangote Refinery noted that while further reductions are possible, the refinery still holds inventory refined from the “expensive crude” acquired during the peak of the Middle East crisis.

Nevertheless, the latest price adjustment reinforces the refinery’s growing influence on Nigeria’s domestic energy security and its capacity to rapidly align local pricing with global market realities.