Oduduwa News

Leading opposition figures in Nigeria, including Atiku Abubakar, Seyi Makinde, and Rotimi Amaechi, have arrived in Ibadan, Oyo State, for a major national summit aimed at reshaping the country’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The high-level gathering, hosted by Governor Makinde at the Government House in Ibadan, has drawn a wide array of opposition heavyweights from across the country. Among those in attendance are Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, and Rauf Aregbesola, alongside several other political stakeholders.

The summit, themed around fostering unity among opposition parties, is focused on addressing key national issues, strengthening political cooperation, and exploring possible alliances. Discussions are expected to centre on Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, security concerns, and strategic preparations for the 2027 elections.

Reports indicate that the event is being chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, highlighting the significance of the meeting and the calibre of participants involved.

The convergence of these influential figures has sparked widespread political interest, with analysts suggesting it could signal the early stages of a unified opposition coalition. Observers believe the meeting may play a crucial role in shaping alliances and defining the direction of opposition politics in the coming years.

Security has been heightened across key areas of Ibadan due to the presence of prominent political leaders and the sensitive nature of the discussions.

As deliberations continue, the outcome of the summit is expected to influence future political strategies and potentially redefine the balance of power ahead of Nigeria’s next electoral cycle.

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every school-age child has access to basic education, describing it as a fundamental right guaranteed by law.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known on Thursday, 23 April 2026, while briefing the media in his office, urging the parents, guardians, community leaders, and market stakeholders to collaborate with the government.

Hon. Olayiwola explained that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has adopted an alternative approach to enforcing compliance with compulsory basic education.
He noted that instead of focusing solely on penalties for parents, the government is introducing flexible learning opportunities for children who are currently out of school.

The commissioner maintained that the state government will organise free evening classes for children engaged in menial jobs within major markets.
He said that the pilot phase of the programme will take place in Mokola/Sabo, Bodija, and Agbeni/Idi-kan markets.

According to him, the programme is scheduled to commence on Monday, April 27, 2026, while the classes will start at 4 pm and close at 6 pm daily.

The designated centres include: St. Brigid’s Primary School, Mokola (for children in the Sabo/Mokola axis)
St. Patrick’s Basic School, Idi-kan, Agbeni (for children in Idi-kan, Agbeni and surrounding areas)
Methodist Primary School, Bodija (for children in Bodija and environs)

He called on parents, guardians, and traders in these markets to support the initiative by allowing and encouraging affected children to attend the two-hour evening classes.

In her remarks, the Director of Basic Education, Mrs Susan Oladipo, revealed that members of the State Steering Committee on Almajiri and Out of School had conducted awareness and sensitisation visits to the three markets.

She noted that market leaders pledged their full support by helping to identify vulnerable children and encouraging their participation in the programme.

Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor and Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s increasing debt profile, questioning why the Federal Government continues to borrow despite removing fuel subsidy.

Sanusi, who has long advocated for economic reforms, noted that the removal of petrol subsidy was expected to ease fiscal pressure and free up funds for development. However, he expressed worry that borrowing has instead continued to rise.

According to him, “If you’re not paying the subsidy and you’ve got the money, why are we still borrowing and borrowing? What are we borrowing for?”

He argued that the whole idea behind subsidy removal was to create fiscal space for infrastructure, social services, and economic growth. With that policy already implemented, Sanusi said Nigerians should be seeing clear financial benefits rather than an increase in debt.

While acknowledging that the subsidy regime was previously unsustainable and wasteful, he stressed that eliminating it should naturally lead to fiscal consolidation—not more borrowing.

Sanusi also highlighted improvements in the petroleum sector, noting that Nigeria is moving toward domestic refining and even exporting petroleum products, a shift he described as positive for the economy.

Despite these gains, he questioned the government’s financial management, urging greater transparency in how savings from subsidy removal are being utilized. He warned that without clear accountability, public trust could erode.

His comments come amid reports that the Federal Government plans to increase borrowing significantly, with projections running into trillions of naira, alongside new external loan requests for infrastructure projects.

Sanusi has consistently maintained that while reforms like subsidy removal and exchange rate unification are necessary, they must be accompanied by disciplined spending and responsible fiscal policies to achieve meaningful economic progress.

Overall, his question underscores a broader national debate: whether the economic reforms introduced by the government are truly translating into reduced debt and improved financial stability for Nigeria.

Prominent traditional rulers from across Southern Nigeria on Thursday gathered in Port Harcourt for a high-level meeting focused on addressing insecurity and strengthening regional collaboration.

The meeting brought together respected monarchs from the South West, South East, and South South, highlighting a unified front among traditional institutions in tackling pressing security challenges affecting their regions.

Among those in attendance were the Ooni of Ife who serves as Chairman of the Southern Traditional Council and the Osun State Traditional Council; Olubadan of Ibadan, the Chairman of the Oyo State Traditional Council; the Olowo of Owo , Chairman of the Ondo State Traditional Council; and the Ogoga of Ikere , Chairman of the Ekiti State Traditional Council.

Also present were the Olu of Ilaro , Chairman of the Ogun State Traditional Council; the Alara of Ilara, Deputy Chairman of the Lagos State Traditional Council; alongside other notable monarchs including the Deji of Akure and the Oniru of Iruland .

The monarchs were formally received by the Governor of Rivers State, Similayi Fubara at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

The gathering is seen as a strategic move by traditional leaders to foster unity and develop grassroots-driven solutions to insecurity, while also strengthening inter-regional cooperation on socio-political and economic issues.

Although details of deliberations remain undisclosed, sources indicate that the meeting will address issues ranging from community safety to youth engagement and conflict resolution across Southern Nigeria.

Iyabo Obasanjo has called for fairness, equity, and inclusivity in the ongoing political realignment within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State , following a consensus arrangement that has reportedly produced a preferred governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Obasanjo expressed concern that while consensus-building is a legitimate political strategy, it must not sideline critical stakeholders or undermine democratic participation within the party. She emphasized that the APC in Ogun must remain a platform where all voices are heard, particularly those of grassroots members who form the backbone of the party.

According to her, “Consensus should not translate into exclusion. If the process lacks transparency and fairness, it risks weakening internal unity and alienating loyal party members.”

The former senator urged party leaders to ensure that zoning arrangements and power shifts reflect the diversity of Ogun State and respect existing agreements among party blocs. She warned that perceived imbalances could create divisions that may affect the APC’s electoral strength in the state.

The reported consensus candidate, whose emergence has sparked mixed reactions among party members, is believed to be part of a broader strategy to maintain political stability and continuity within the state. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the lack of open consultation.

Obasanjo further called on the party’s national leadership to intervene where necessary, ensuring that internal democracy is upheld and that all aspirants are given a fair opportunity to engage in the process.

Political observers note that Ogun State has historically experienced intense intra-party negotiations, especially regarding governorship succession. With 2027 still some distance away, analysts believe early consensus moves may help stabilize the party—but only if managed inclusively.

As discussions continue, party members and stakeholders are expected to engage in further consultations to reconcile differences and strengthen unity ahead of the elections.

Omo Oluwa has congratulated and applauded the appointments of Lere Oyewumi, Kolapo Alimi, and Pelumi Olajengbesi as key leaders of the Imole Campaign Council echelon.

Mr. Olasunkanmi Elijah Olusegun, a Senatorial aspirant from Osun Central, commended the Executive Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, for what he described as a well-thought-out and strategic composition of the campaign council. He particularly praised the appointment of Senator Oyewumi as the Director-General of the Imole Campaign Council, alongside Barrister Kolapo Alimi, Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, and other distinguished members serving in various leadership capacities.

In a statement signed and released to the press in Osogbo by the Director of his media team, Mr. Olasunkanmi noted that the Governor has carefully assembled a competent and formidable team capable of delivering his second-term mandate.

He described the choice of Senator Oyewumi, the Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate, as highly strategic, citing his proven track record, political experience, and wide influence across Osun State and beyond. He equally commended the inclusion of Barrister Kolapo Alimi and Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, noting their capacity, commitment, and credibility in public service and political advocacy.

Mr. Olasunkanmi expressed confidence in the ability of the campaign council to achieve success in the forthcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for August 15, 2026, stating that the outcome represents the collective aspiration of the people.

He also urged the good people of Osun State to continue supporting and promoting the achievements of Governor Ademola Adeleke, while calling on them to come out en masse to vote in the upcoming election.

The Lagere flyover has been described as critical to the development of Ile-Ife, with Governor Ademola Adeleke receiving commendation from the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, for initiating the project.

The project, located at what is widely regarded as the “nerve centre of Ifeland,” is expected to ease movement and boost economic activities across the area.

The Ooni of Ife also called for its speedy completion to maximize its impact.

The governor, in response, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equitable infrastructure development across Osun State, noting that efforts are ongoing to ensure timely delivery.

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, , has resigned from his position to focus on his gubernatorial ambition in ahead of the next election cycle.

The resignation marks a significant political move as Adelabu prepares to re-enter the race for the Oyo State governorship, a position he previously contested. Sources within government circles indicate that his decision aligns with ongoing political realignments and preparations by aspirants ahead of party primaries.

Adelabu, who served as Minister of Power under the administration of , had overseen several reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. During his tenure, the ministry pursued initiatives aimed at improving electricity generation, strengthening transmission infrastructure, and enhancing distribution efficiency across the country.

Despite these efforts, the power sector has continued to face persistent challenges, including fluctuations in supply, grid instability, and constraints in gas supply to power plants. His exit comes at a critical time when stakeholders are calling for sustained reforms to address the nation’s energy needs.

Political analysts suggest that Adelabu’s resignation signals the formal start of his governorship campaign, as he is expected to consolidate support within his party and across key political blocs in Oyo State. His entry into the race is likely to reshape the political landscape in the state, setting the stage for a competitive contest.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official announcement regarding his replacement, though sources say a successor may be named in the coming days to ensure continuity in the power sector.

Former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has declared that pro-democracy forces across the country will resist any attempt to impose a one-party system, following a strategic meeting with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana.

Hashim said the meeting formed part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
“We resolved to sustain the multi-party structure of Nigeria’s democracy and resist one-party rule,” he stated.

Describing Falana as a long-time ally, Hashim noted that their relationship spans over four decades, rooted in activism, resistance, and a shared commitment to justice.

He recalled their involvement in the anti-apartheid movement under the Nigeria–ANC Friendship and Cultural Association, particularly a major protest held on January 7, 1988, during the visit of former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher.

According to Hashim, he led a student contingent that defied security restrictions and advanced onto the airport tarmac in protest, an action that led to the arrest of five activists.

He paid tribute to those involved, noting that only two of them remain alive, while others, Olaitan Oyerinde, Chris Ayaeze, and Rotimi Ewebiyi have since passed on.

Beyond activism, Hashim highlighted his legal battles against military rule, including a 1988 suit challenging the Structural Adjustment Programme under the regime of Ibrahim Babangida, in which Falana served as his pro bono lawyer.

He also referenced his detention in 1989 in a landmark constitutional case against the Attorney General of the Federation, handled by a legal team led by Alao Aka-Bashorun,then President of the Nigeria Bar Association.

Hashim further disclosed that Falana played a pivotal role in his appointment as National Administrative Secretary of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, where he worked under the late Beko Ransome-Kuti.

He stressed that their enduring alliance remains focused on defending democratic values, civil liberties, and political plurality in Nigeria.

The declaration signals renewed concern among pro-democracy advocates over the trajectory of Nigeria’s political system, with Hashim affirming his readiness to collaborate with like-minded actors to safeguard the nation’s democracy.

The Oyo State Executive Council meeting, chaired by the State Governor, has approved compensation for over 900 property owners whose lands were affected by the ongoing construction of the Ibadan Circular Road

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, a total of N5,813,000,000 (Five Billion, Eight hundred and Thirteen Million Naira) will be paid to these categories of people.

The Council noted that the compensation will not only put a stop to the agitation and misinformation surrounding this laudable project, but will also pave the way for accelerated planning and development, foster investors’ confidence, and bring to reality the vision of a transformed urban development of Ibadan and Oyo State as conceived by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The Council recalled that over N800,000,000 (Eight Hundred Million Naira) had earlier been paid in the first phase as compensation for displaced persons in the past 18 months

According to the Information Commissioner, Oyo State is one of the few states in the Federation that has continued to support the masses since the removal of the fuel subsidy

The introduction of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER), set up by the State Government since 2023, has positively impacted the lives of the masses through interventions such as food relief/palliatives, health insurance, MSME support, and transportation

The Council also approved the sum of N710,382,000 (Seven Hundred and Ten Million, Three Hundred and Eighty- Two Thousand Naira) to cover transportation subsidy for the period between March and August 2026.

Prince Dotun Oyelade recalled that last year alone, over 4 million commuters, including pensioners, students, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, benefited from between 50 and 100 percent transportation subsidies in the State.

The State Executive Council noted the strategic importance of the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Okaka Junction–Otu–Igbeti–Kishi road and the construction of bridges over the Otu and Ofiki rivers at a cost of N26,482,664,000 (Twenty-Six Billion, Four Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Sixty-Four thousand naira)

Council also approved the expansion of this project by N3,981,431,000 (Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Eighty-One Million, Four Hundred and Thirty-One Thousand Naira)

According to the Information Commissioner, Council further approved the completion of the Oyo State Christian Wing multipurpose hall, which was initiated over 25 years ago during the administration of Governor Lam Adesina

He said that the completion will cost N126,912,000 (One Hundred and Twenty-Six Million, Nine Hundred and Twelve Thousand Naira)

Prince Oyelade added further that In continuation of the Administration’s belief in entrenching the State’s culture and expanding it’s global potentials, Council approved the hosting of the Year 2026 Oyo state International Tourism Summit, stressing that the Council believed that the approval will consolidate the huge successes recorded in previous editions.