Author: oduduwanews

Tensions are mounting in Ibadan North Federal Constituency as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) exchange verbal salvos ahead of Saturday’s by-election.

In a series of statements released on Wednesday, both parties accused each other of plotting to manipulate the electoral process. The APC alleged that the PDP-led Oyo State government was deploying state resources and influence to intimidate voters and sway the outcome in its favour.

Responding, the PDP dismissed the claims as baseless, accusing the APC of desperation and attempting to discredit the electoral process ahead of the polls. The ruling party insisted that its track record in the constituency would earn it a convincing victory without resorting to malpractice.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured residents that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure a free, fair, and credible election. Security agencies have also pledged to maintain peace and order before, during, and after the vote.

The Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the death of its former representative, and political activities in the area have since intensified as both major parties rally supporters for what promises to be a keenly contested race.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda,
has affirmed Ogun State as a strong base of the APC, saying that Ogun people will demonstrate this by voting massively for the party in Saturday’s by-election in the state.

He also described the Gateway International Airport as a game changer capable of creating a new economy by opening the state to the outside world.

Prof. Yilwatda stated this at the airport on his way to Abuja after attending the grand finale campaign of the party’s candidate for Remo Federal Constituency, Hon. Adesola Elegbeji, in Sagamu on Thursday.

The Chairman described the airport as a representation of the progressive transformation nature of the APC.

“We have known the APC as a progressive party with progressive policies and programs, and this is one of them.

“Creating a new economy out of Ogun State, ensuring that Ogun State is open to the world, and that is the reason we are here: to ensure that the National Assembly from Ogun State is populated by the APC, and we are sure that we will achieve this.

“I am not trying to look down on any political party, but I don’t think there is any other political party aside from the APC; we have only one party.

“Anyone who votes for any other party aside from the APC is wasting their vote. I look forward to winning massively in Ogun State. It is our terrain, it is our state, it is our environment.”

He said it is the desire of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the state to align with the centre.

He added: “He wants your votes to be given to our candidate; he needs her to be part of the National Assembly.

“We want to have the West, we want to have the South, we want to have the North; we want the party to be a national party, and she is that voice, she is that person, she is that woman that we await in the National Assembly.”

Also speaking, Governor Dapo Abiodun assured residents of the Federal Constituency that adequate security measures have been put in place to enable them to exercise their franchise in Saturday’s by-election.

He called on the electorate to come out en masse and vote for the candidate of the party, as security has been beefed up for their safety.

He said: “I am the executive governor of this state, and by the power conferred on me, as the Chief Security Officer of this state, it would not be right if I did not ensure that necessary steps are taken to ensure that we have free, transparent, and successful elections.

“I believe the security architecture is fully briefed. This election will be peaceful; we will do anything to ensure that our citizens go out and exercise their franchise without anyone disturbing them.

“I have warned that if you are not planning to go out and vote peacefully, stay at home and stay away from the ballot boxes because we will deal with you decisively.”

Abiodun, who recalled the violence that characterized the 2023 general election and the local government elections—marked by thuggery, ballot box snatching, and attempted assassination by the opposition—vowed that similar occurrences would not be tolerated this time.

“We will not tolerate any disturbances of any kind, and the truth is that it is the APC that lost a House of Representatives seat, and we are simply trying to replace it with another woman.

“We are adequately prepared, as we have gone to every ward, and I have visited all the local government areas in the constituency, campaigning for our candidate. I have mobilized all and sundry, so I expect that come Saturday, the election will go peacefully, transparently, and it will be a landslide victory in favour of the APC,” he added.

Abiodun said his administration has done the needful to ensure inter-party tolerance and to avoid unnecessary heating of the polity, emphasizing that the peaceful atmosphere in the state has boosted its ranking as the foremost state in Foreign Direct Investment.

The Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 governorship election in the state, who is now a member of the ruling party, Hon. Abdukabir Adekunle Akinlade, called on the people of Remoland to come out in large numbers and cast their votes for the APC candidate.

Also, the State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, Hon. (Mrs.) Adeyemo Folashade, described Adesola Elegbeji as a capable woman who will bring the dividends of democracy to the people of Remoland, urging the people to come out in large numbers and vote for the APC.

The management of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, has confirmed the death of a part-two medical student, Ajibola Ibitayo, who reportedly committed suicide.

A statement by the Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, made available to Oduduwa News on Thursday, stated that the student with the matriculation number: DEN/2021/023), committed suicide after failing his examinations.

Olarewaju said the results of examinations were released on Wednesday and it would have required Ibitayo to repeat Part Two for the second time.

“The entire community of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been thrown into mourning following the death of a Part Two student of the Faculty of Dentistry.

“The student, identified as Ajibola Ibitayo (Matriculation Number: DEN/2021/023), committed suicide after learning that the results of the last semester examinations, released yesterday, would require him to repeat Part Two for another academic year.

“The student, whose father is a medical doctor, reportedly injected himself at his parents’ home in Ejigbo, Osun State,” the statement read partly.

Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has stated that the proposed bill to regulate the relationship between landlords and tenants will reduce the agency fee or commission on annual rent from ten to five per cent if passed into law.
Oduduwa News reports that Obasa made this known on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, during a one-day public hearing on the bill.

Represented by the lawmaker representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency, Stephen Ogundipe, Obasa said section 3(4) of the proposed tenancy law will make it an offence for any agent collecting more than five per cent of the annual rent.

The speaker stated that such an agent commits an offence punishable by a fine of ₦1 million, two years’ imprisonment, or both.

Obasa added that Lagos’ housing deficit had increased by 15 per cent, from 2.95 million units in 2016 to 3.4 million units in 2025.

He stated that over 70 per cent of Lagos residents are tenants, with many spending between 40 and 60 per cent of their income on rent.

According to Obasa, the bill will provide a framework for tenancy agreements, rent payment, property maintenance, and the process for recovery of premises.

He added that the legislation outlines clear eviction procedures to protect tenants from arbitrary evictions, which is essential for stability, especially for families and small businesses.

Section 3(4) of the draft of the proposed law reads, “A commission or agency fee in respect of any tenancy shall be agreed upon by the Agent and the Landlord or Tenant who engaged the agent, and the amount shall not exceed 5% of the amount paid as one year’s rent.”

However, professional bodies at the public hearing raised concerns over the five per cent agency fee limit, stating that it conflicts with established professional charges.

The management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, has confirmed the tragic killing of one of its students during an unauthorised sign-out ceremony in the town.

The deceased, identified as Marvelous Olanrewaju Babalola, a 300-level student in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, was reportedly shot on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the Ultramodern Wazo Market football pitch in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

In a statement signed by the university’s Registrar, Mrs. Olayinka Balogun, LAUTECH expressed deep sorrow over the incident and disclosed that the school had banned all forms of sign-out celebrations since 2023 due to safety concerns.

“Despite repeated warnings and formal notices to students, including directives to hospitality facilities not to host such activities, some students still went ahead to organise the event. Sadly, it ended in the loss of a precious life,” the statement read.

Balogun added that the Acting Dean of Student Affairs promptly alerted the Oyo State Police Command, whose personnel from the Monitoring Unit and the Area Command responded to the scene. The victim’s body was conveyed to the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital morgue after identification through personal items found in his bag.

The university pledged full cooperation with the ongoing police investigation and assured the public that the family of the deceased had been duly informed.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family, friends, and colleagues of the late Marvelous Olanrewaju Babalola during this difficult time,” the statement added.

The Oyo State Police Command has yet to announce any arrests in connection with the killing, but investigations are ongoing.

Former Minister of Interior and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has kicked off a mass membership drive for the party in Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos, urging Nigerians to reject the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the well-attended event, Aregbesola took a swipe at the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party (LP), accusing all three of failing to deliver good governance and meaningful development. He described the ADC as a “fresh alternative” capable of resetting Nigeria on the path of progress.

“Go out and spread the gospel of the ADC to all Nigerians, especially in your local government areas. Tell them that a new vista of hope and opportunity awaits them in our party,” Aregbesola charged the crowd, promising incentives to boost mobilisation efforts.

In a clear defiance to President Bola Tinubu and the Lagos APC leadership, the former Osun State governor encouraged party members to embark on grassroots sensitisation, register as voters during the ongoing Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continuous voter registration, and prepare to protect their votes in 2027.

The rally, which drew a large turnout despite initial delays, featured speeches, campaign songs, and solidarity chants. Key party figures in attendance included Lagos State ADC Chairman George Ashiru, Lagos State Influencer Rahman Owokoniran, and Kosofe LGA Influencer Funmi Onita-Coker, all of whom stressed the importance of mass mobilisation ahead of the polls.

Ashiru welcomed prospective members, pledging “honest and transparent leadership” and equal opportunities for both newcomers and existing members.

Comfort Emmanson, the woman who was remanded at Kirikiri Correctional Centre following an incident aboard an Ibom Air flight, has been released.

The decision followed the withdrawal of the complaint against her by Ibom Air. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed her release on Wednesday, stating succinctly: “Emmanson has gone home from the court. I can confirm that.”

Keyamo explained that the withdrawal of the case came after consultations with key stakeholders in the aviation sector, including the Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON), and in light of Emmanson’s “great remorse” during police questioning.

As a result, the lifetime flying ban imposed by AON has also been lifted. Authorities indicated that the necessary steps have been taken to facilitate her release this week.

The Obafemi Awolowo University Dental Students’ Association (IFUDSA) has been thrown into mourning following the death of one of its members, who reportedly took his own life shortly after the release of examination results.

In a statement signed by its President, Adebayo Idris, on Wednesday, made available to Oduduwa News, the association described the incident as a “painful reminder of the silent battles many students face.”

“With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of one of our colleagues in the Faculty of Dentistry. We received the painful news that he took his own life shortly after the release of examination results,” the statement read.

The association extended its condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, classmates, and all who knew him, noting that the tragedy highlights the urgent need for stronger mental health support among students.

“This loss is not just the departure of a promising young mind, but a painful reminder of the silent battles many students face. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and no one should ever feel alone in their struggles,” Idris stated.

IFUDSA urged its members to reach out to one another, offer support, and seek professional help when necessary. The association also reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for improved student welfare and mental health services to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

A tricycle operator died while two of his passengers were seriously injured in a head-on collision with a Toyota Venza at Egbe Bridge summit, inward Ikotun, Lagos State on Tuesday.

While confirming the incident, General Manager of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki said the driver of the car with registration number GWA 659 RD, fled the accident scene after killing

The statement was signed by Mr Taofiq Adebayo, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA.

According to Bakare-Oki, the driver, in an act of cowardice and moral dereliction, fled the scene after realising the devastation caused by his impatience and reckless driving.

“Law enforcement authorities have launched a concerted manhunt to apprehend the fugitive motorist and subject him to the full rigours of the law,” he said.

He said preliminary findings indicated the Toyota Venza approached from the Ejigbo axis, attempting a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre atop the bridge.

Bakare-Oki expressed condolences to the deceased’s family and wished the injured passengers a quick and full recovery.

Reaffirming LASTMA’s commitment to road safety, Bakare-Oki urged motorists to be vigilant and ensure roads are clear before overtaking, especially on elevated roads and bridge crests.

“This tragic incident is a grim reminder of the deadly consequences of impatience and blatant disregard for traffic laws,” he said.

He stressed the need for discipline, foresight, and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent avoidable tragedies on Nigeria’s roads.

The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo has ordered withdrawal of cases against the remanded Airbom passenger, Comfort Emmason and the popular Fuji Musician, Wasiu Ayinde popularly known as KWAM1.

In a statement made available to newsmen as read in part:

“A valuable lessons have been learnt by all sides to these incidents and airport security protocol, especially, have been well highlighted for the travelling public. If nothing at all, the episodes have undoubtedly helped to raise public awareness about appropriate conduct within the aviation space.

“As highlighted in my previous statements on the last two incidents, clear wrongs were committed by both the offending passengers and staff of the airlines involved, from all the evidence available to us and that available to the public. It is clear that all the actors involved cannot continue to highlight the injury or injustice done to them without acknowledging their own equal culpability,” the Minister’s statement read in part.

Following deliberations, “including appeals made by well-meaning individuals and remorse shown by the actors”, Keyamo said he had prevailed on Ibom Airline to withdraw the complaint against Emmason.

“In the case of the unruly passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, on the Ibom Airline on Sunday, the 10th of August, 2025, I have conferred with Ibom Airline to withdraw the Complaint against her today. When the Police took her Statement in the presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct.”

Keyamo noted that the female Ibom passenger will be released from Kirikiri prison immediately, and the lifetime flying ban will also be lifted.

“Subsequent to the withdrawal of the complaint by the Complainant, the CP of Airport Command and the Police Prosecutor will immediately take the remaining steps to facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prisons within this week.

“I have also conferred with the leadership of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and have appealed to them to lift the lifetime flying ban imposed on her, to which they agreed. The details of the resolution will be made public by the AON subsequently.”