As political activities gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Oyo State, the issue of who emerges as the Chairman of Ido Local Government has become a subject of growing public interest among residents, stakeholders, and political leaders across the council area.

For many people in Ido Local Government, the chairmanship position is more than a political office; it is a symbol of local representation, identity, and the collective aspirations of the indigenous communities that have contributed immensely to the development and growth of the council over the years. It is therefore understandable that there is a strong expectation that the next chairman should emerge from among the indigenes of Ido Local Government.

The argument for an indigene chairman is not rooted in discrimination or exclusion, but in the desire to preserve local participation and ensure that those who fully understand the history, challenges, culture, and developmental needs of the various communities within Ido are given the opportunity to lead. Local government administration is closest to the people, and effective leadership often requires a deep connection with the communities being served.

Many residents still recall previous political decisions that generated concerns regarding representation. In particular, the emergence of a non-indigene for a major elective position within the area was viewed by many as a departure from the expectations of the people. As political parties prepare for another electoral cycle, there is a widespread belief that such a situation should not be repeated with the chairmanship seat of Ido Local Government.

This appeal is therefore directed to Governor Seyi Makinde, political parties, traditional leaders, community associations, and all relevant stakeholders to carefully consider the sentiments of the people during the selection and nomination process. Respecting the aspirations of the indigenous population will strengthen public confidence in the democratic process and promote unity across the local government.

Furthermore, giving an indigene the opportunity to occupy the chairmanship position will help reinforce the principle of grassroots representation, encourage greater community ownership of governance, and deepen the bond between the government and the people. Such a decision would be widely welcomed by residents who believe that local leadership should reflect the identity and aspirations of the local population.

As the election approaches, stakeholders must prioritize fairness, consultation, and the collective interest of the people of Ido Local Government. The voices of the indigenous communities deserve to be heard, respected, and reflected in the eventual choice of who leads the council.

Ultimately, the peace, unity, and political stability of Ido Local Government depend on decisions that inspire confidence among the people. The overwhelming expectation across many communities is that the next chairman should be an indigene who understands the local terrain, shares the people’s aspirations, and is committed to advancing the development of Ido Local Government.

Bolarinwa Adeolu, a concerned indigene of Ido Local Government

The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, alongside the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and other critical security stakeholders, has launched a coordinated security initiative aimed at safeguarding schools and communities across the state amid rising concerns over insecurity in parts of the country.

The move followed an emergency security meeting convened by the state government, where traditional rulers, security agencies, local vigilante groups, hunters, and members of the Osun Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, resolved to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering around educational institutions and vulnerable communities.

Speaking during the meeting, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that the safety of schoolchildren remains a top priority. He disclosed that additional security personnel would be deployed to strategic locations, particularly around schools, while community-based security structures would be strengthened to detect and prevent criminal activities.

The Ooni of Ife commended the state government for taking proactive steps to address security concerns, urging traditional rulers and community leaders to support ongoing efforts by providing credible intelligence and mobilising local residents against criminal elements. He emphasized that security is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration between government, security agencies, and citizens.

As part of the resolutions reached, hunters, local vigilantes, Amotekun operatives, and other security outfits were directed to intensify patrols in forests, border communities, and remote areas that could serve as hideouts for kidnappers and other criminal groups. Security agencies were also urged to improve information sharing and rapid response mechanisms.

The stakeholders expressed confidence that the coordinated approach would help deter criminal activities and reassure parents, teachers, and residents of the government’s determination to maintain peace and security throughout Osun State. They further called on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to relevant authorities.

The renewed security mobilisation comes amid heightened concerns over attacks on schools and communities in some parts of Nigeria, prompting several states to adopt preventive measures to forestall security breaches and protect residents.

Fresh details have emerged regarding the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as the kidnappers are reportedly demanding sophisticated weapons, a huge ransom, and the concession of a portion of land within the council area as conditions for releasing their captives.

According to information gathered by Oduduwa News, the terrorists responsible for the abduction have established contact with the Oyo State Government. However, efforts to secure the release of the victims are said to be difficult due to what officials described as outrageous and unacceptable demands by the abductors.

The shocking revelation was made by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, during plenary proceedings at the Assembly on Wednesday. The Speaker disclosed that negotiating with the kidnappers would embolden them because their conditions extend beyond monetary demands.

Ogundoyin explained that the abductors are requesting a large cache of sophisticated weapons, a substantial amount of money, and the concession of part of Oyo State territorial land, demands which the government is unwilling and unable to meet.

He assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, is intensifying efforts to secure the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils without compromising the security and territorial integrity of the state.

The Speaker urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing rescue operations. He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration to ensuring the safe return of all victims and tackling the growing security challenges confronting parts of the state.

The abduction has continued to generate widespread concern among residents, parents, and stakeholders, with many calling for urgent and decisive action to secure the release of the victims and strengthen security across vulnerable communities in Oyo State.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging for their roles in the deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, which occurred on June 5, 2022, during a Pentecost Sunday service. The attack, one of the deadliest assaults on a place of worship in Nigeria’s recent history, claimed the lives of more than 40 worshippers and left over 100 others injured.

Delivering judgment, Justice Emeka Nwite found the defendants guilty on multiple terrorism-related charges, including terrorism financing, kidnapping, hostage-taking, conspiracy, and the use of explosives that resulted in deaths and injuries. The convicted men were identified as Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, and Abdulhaleem Idris.

The court heard that the convicts participated in planning and executing the attack, allegedly operating from a terrorist cell in Kogi State. Prosecutors presented witness testimonies, confessional statements, and forensic evidence linking the defendants to the massacre. A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was discharged and acquitted after the court ruled that there was insufficient evidence to connect him to the crime.

In addition to the death sentence, the four convicts were also handed life imprisonment terms for membership of a terrorist organization and 20 years imprisonment each for conspiracy. The judgment is being viewed as a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to prosecute terrorism-related crimes and deliver justice to victims of violent attacks.

The Owo church attack shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation from local and international communities. Worshippers were attending Mass at the church when gunmen and explosives struck, turning a religious celebration into a tragedy that left families devastated and the entire Owo community in mourning.

The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement has raised concerns over what it describes as external interference in the Accord Party’s presidential nomination process, insisting that Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains the party’s duly elected candidate for the 2027 general elections.

The group said recent statements by sections of the Accord Party leadership disputing Hashim’s emergence were “unfounded and contrary to documented facts and democratic procedures already concluded within the party.”

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the movement maintained that Hashim’s emergence as presidential candidate was the outcome of a legitimate internal process involving party members across the country.

It stated that his participation followed a formal invitation by the Accord Party national leadership, after which he joined the party in March 2026 following consultations on strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.

The group added that Hashim subsequently mobilised nationwide support, contributed resources to party development, and participated fully in activities leading to the presidential primary.

According to the statement, the party leadership had repeatedly assured Hashim that Accord would field a presidential candidate in line with the Electoral Act and internal party guidelines.

It also referenced tensions reportedly linked to political statements and alignments outside the party structure, including comments attributed to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke regarding support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC.

The movement further alleged that external political interests attempted to influence the party’s decision-making process ahead of the presidential primary, claiming such pressure was aimed at preventing Accord from presenting a candidate in the 2027 elections.
The movement urged party members and the public to remain calm.

The group argues that what is happening in the Accord Party is not an isolated incident.

ADC has also witnessed factional disputes over its presidential ticket, with multiple claimants emerging from rival party structures

The PDP has similarly experienced disputes over its presidential nomination process, with rival factions presenting different positions regarding the party’s candidate.

The Labour Party, like the ADC and PDP, also has multiple claims.

Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement noted that virtually all political parties in Nigeria where strong candidates have featured have at least two parallel candidates, or the emergence of any serious candidate is sabotaged by agents of the incumbent government, consistent with a plan to ensure that no viable candidate competes with the incumbent.

The group said Dr. Hashim remains committed to democratic principles and national unity, adding that he continues to focus on offering credible leadership alternatives ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Residents of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, were thrown into panic on Tuesday night after suspected gunmen reportedly attacked an office of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), making away with weapons belonging to officers on duty.

According to sources familiar with the incident, the attackers stormed the facility under the cover of darkness and launched a coordinated operation that caught security personnel off guard. During the attack, the gunmen allegedly overpowered officers on duty and seized a number of service weapons before fleeing the scene.

The incident is said to have triggered tension within the area, with residents expressing concerns over the growing security challenges in parts of the state. Witnesses reported hearing unusual movements and commotion around the vicinity of the immigration office during the attack.

Security agencies were immediately alerted, and efforts were reportedly intensified to track down the perpetrators and recover the stolen weapons. Additional security personnel were said to have been deployed to the area to prevent further breaches and reassure residents.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to release an official statement detailing the exact circumstances surrounding the attack or the number of weapons stolen. Investigations are ongoing, while residents and stakeholders have called for strengthened security measures around critical government facilities.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over attacks on security formations and public institutions across the country, underscoring the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and proactive security operations.

The Ogun State Government has dismissed as false and unfounded reports circulating on social media and other platforms alleging that Fulani herdsmen, Boko Haram insurgents, and other terrorist groups are planning to invade the state.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the government said available security intelligence and reports from relevant agencies indicate that Ogun State remains safe and secure.

The government urged residents not to be distracted by misinformation designed to create panic and fear among the populace, stressing that there is no truth in claims of an impending security threat within the state.

According to the statement, security agencies across Ogun State have remained vigilant, while adequate measures have been put in place to prevent any attempt by criminal elements to undermine public peace and order.

“The Ogun State Government has noted with dismay the rumours being circulated on social media and across different platforms indicating that the state is under imminent threat of invasion by killer herders, Boko Haram terrorists fleeing military operations in the North-East, and other criminal groups,” Akinmade said.

“The true situation is that there is no imminent threat of invasion by any terrorist group. Security agencies and operatives across the state are on high alert, and adequate measures have already been put in place to checkmate any individual or group seeking to foment trouble or undermine public order.”

He added that some individuals appeared to be exploiting security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create unnecessary fear among Ogun residents.

“It is clear that some individuals are attempting to exploit security challenges being experienced in other parts of the country to create a climate of fear in Ogun State. This is highly irresponsible and capable of causing unnecessary anxiety among residents,” he said.

Akinmade disclosed that security agencies have already apprehended some individuals linked to the circulation of the false reports and misinformation on social media. He noted that those arrested are being prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the action is intended to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to spread falsehoods, incite panic, or create chaos within the state.

“Security agencies have identified and apprehended some of the individuals responsible for spreading these false narratives. They are currently facing prosecution, and this should serve as a clear warning to anyone seeking to deliberately spread misinformation, create panic, or disrupt public peace. The government will continue to work with security agencies to ensure that those who engage in such acts are held accountable,” he stated.

The statement emphasized that Ogun State continues to enjoy strong collaboration among security agencies, local authorities, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders. This synergy, it noted, has significantly enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid response capacity, and overall coordination in maintaining peace across the state.

It further disclosed that the state government is already working in close conjunction with all security agencies to fine-tune strategic, state-specific security measures aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability. The initiative, according to the government, is designed to deepen collaboration between conventional security agencies and traditional security architecture at the grassroots.

Akinmade explained that this integrated approach will strengthen intelligence sharing, community participation, and early warning systems, leveraging the enduring role of traditional institutions in local security management alongside modern security frameworks.

“The government is not only focused on addressing immediate security concerns but is also committed to putting in place enduring mechanisms that will preserve peace and security in the long term. This involves strengthening the synergy between conventional security institutions and traditional security architecture, which continues to play a vital role in intelligence gathering and community-based conflict prevention,” he said.

The government also noted that Governor Dapo Abiodun has consistently prioritized the security of lives and property through sustained investments in security infrastructure, logistical support for security agencies, and the deployment of technology-driven initiatives aimed at enhancing surveillance and crime prevention across the state.

The statement further urged residents to rely strictly on official government communication channels and recognized security agencies for information. It warned that the indiscriminate sharing of unverified reports on social media could inadvertently aid mischief makers seeking to spread fear and confusion.

Akinmade assured that the state government remains proactive rather than reactive in security management and is continuously reviewing intelligence reports and nationwide security developments to ensure Ogun State remains peaceful, safe, and conducive for residents, businesses, and visitors.

He added that while citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant as responsible members of society, there is no cause for alarm, as all security formations in the state are fully alert and working in close coordination to safeguard communities and maintain public order.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to public safety, Akinmade warned that the government would not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone attempting to disrupt the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the state.

He also called on residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and useful information whenever necessary, stressing that security remains a shared responsibility.

The state government further encouraged residents to support ongoing security efforts through responsible and timely information sharing. For credible security information and assistance, members of the public may contact the Ogun State Police Command through the Gateway Shield toll-free line on 0800 000 9111 or the emergency lines: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.

The government urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports and refrain from spreading rumours capable of causing panic or disrupting public peace, assuring residents that Ogun State remains safe, secure, and open for lawful business and socio-economic activities.

Oduduwa News has just gathered that a younger sister of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Bayo Adelabu, popularly known as Penkelemesi, and her children have been allegedly kidnapped in the Elewura area of Ibadan.

According to a resident, an eyewitness who spoke to Oduduwa News under the condition of anonymity, disclosed that the alleged abduction occurred under circumstances that are yet to be officially established. The identities of the victims and details surrounding the incident have not been independently verified by security agencies as of the time of filing this report.

The development has generated concern among residents and political stakeholders, with many calling on security authorities to urgently investigate the claim and provide clarity on the situation.

Efforts to obtain confirmation from the Oyo State Police Command and representatives of the Adelabu family were unsuccessful at the time of this report. No official statement has been issued regarding the alleged incident.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue. Members of the public have been advised to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports capable of causing panic.

The Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Mr. Taiwo Adegoroye, has directed the immediate closure of all public and private schools within the council area following growing security concerns.

Adegoroye announced the decision after an emergency security meeting with relevant stakeholders, saying the measure was necessary to safeguard the lives of pupils, students, teachers, and other school personnel amid reports of potential security threats in parts of the local government.

According to the council chairman, intelligence reports and recent developments necessitated proactive action to prevent any breach of security that could endanger residents, particularly schoolchildren. He noted that the closure was a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring that educational institutions do not become targets of criminal activities.

The chairman directed school administrators, proprietors, and heads of public institutions to comply fully with the directive pending further review of the security situation. He assured parents and guardians that the local government, in collaboration with security agencies, was taking all necessary steps to maintain peace and protect lives and property.

Adegoroye also urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while cooperating with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities within their communities. He emphasized that security operatives had been deployed to strategic locations across the local government to strengthen surveillance and deter criminal elements.

The closure has generated concern among parents and education stakeholders, many of whom expressed hope that the situation would be brought under control quickly to allow academic activities to resume. Authorities have assured the public that schools will be reopened as soon as security assessments indicate that it is safe to do so.

Two serving police officers attached to the Lagos State Police Command narrowly escaped being lynched by an angry mob after they were mistakenly identified as suspected kidnappers in Ogun State.

The incident reportedly occurred when residents became suspicious of the officers’ presence in a community and raised an alarm, alleging that they were involved in kidnapping activities. Within minutes, a crowd gathered and attempted to apprehend the men, leading to heightened tension in the area.

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated rapidly as residents, acting on fears fueled by recent reports of abductions and criminal activities, moved to attack the officers before their identities could be verified. The officers reportedly made efforts to explain that they were members of the Nigeria Police Force, but the crowd remained unconvinced.

The situation was eventually brought under control following the intervention of local security operatives and community leaders who verified the identities of the officers and confirmed that they were serving personnel from the Lagos State Police Command. Their timely intervention prevented what could have resulted in serious injuries or loss of life.

Police authorities have since condemned the attempted mob action, warning members of the public against taking the law into their own hands. The command stressed that suspects should always be handed over to law enforcement agencies for proper investigation rather than subjected to jungle justice.

The incident has once again highlighted the dangers of mob justice and the growing atmosphere of suspicion in many communities amid concerns over insecurity. Authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant but to verify information and allow security agencies to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the law.