Author: oduduwanews

Tragedy struck in Odogunyan area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, as a 19-year-old girl, Opesusi Faith Timilehin, reportedly took own life over a low score in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) result.

Faith, a second-time candidate, was said to have been deeply disappointed after scoring 190, a score reportedly lower than her previous performance in the 2024 UTME.

Family and friends said she had high expectations and was devastated by the outcome.

“She scored more than this in her previous JAMB. She was confident this time would be even better. When she saw 190, she couldn’t believe it,” said a close friend on the condition of anonymity.

It was gathered that the teenager took a poisonous substance, commonly referred to as “push out”. She was rushed to Kolak Hospital in Odogunyan, where she was confirmed dead on arrival.

In a twist of fate, an admission offer was reportedly sent to her Gmail account shortly after her death.

“The shocking revelation is that she was given an admission message via her Gmail yesterday, immediately after she was confirmed dead at Kolak Hospital, Odogunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos,” the source said.

The incident has added to growing concerns surrounding this year’s UTME results, as many candidates across the country have raised petitions and complaints to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) over alleged irregularities.

Several candidates have taken to social media to protest discrepancies in their scores, with some alleging their results were altered or withheld without clear reasons. Others cited technical glitches during the examination.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a motion to honor and celebrate veteran Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onile Ola, for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Yoruba culture through theatre.

The Oyo State House of Assembly made the call today, Wednesday at its Yoruba plenary session while deliberating on a motion presented in by the Majority Leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin (Ogbomoso South).

The Motion urged the State Government to recognize and honor the Octogenarian Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, Eda Onile-Ola, who is among the oldest in the industry.

It further called on the State Government to honor other veteran actors who have made impacts in the theatre industry.

While highlighting Eda Onile-Ola’s remarkable career and his role in showcasing Yoruba culture and values through his performances, the House noted that Chief Paimo’s dedication to the arts has helped to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

Hon. Adedoyin in the Motion commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for its commitment to sustaining and promoting Yoruba culture, citing various cultural initiatives spearheaded by the Government.

He noted that while efforts have been made in festivals and tourism development, traditional Yoruba theatre—once a stronghold of cultural storytelling—is gradually fading.

The Motion also urged the State Government to support the production of traditional Yoruba plays that promote wisdom and good character, and ensure their integration into cultural tourism.

It equally plans to hold a special plenary in honour of the theatre icon, and called for the funding of documentaries and exhibitions showcasing Chief Lere Paimo’s work.

“Yoruba culture is rich, and theatre is one of our strongest mediums to educate, entertain, and preserve our traditions. It is essential to recognize and support those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring these values do not disappear, one of thm is Chief Lere Paimo popularly called Eda Onile-Ola.” Hon. Adedoyin stated.

He further lamented that modern film productions have lost touch with Yoruba ethics, often promoting foreign influences instead of showcasing the moral values embedded in indigenous Yoruba storytelling.

Hon. Adedoyin emphasized the importance of preserving theatre as a medium for educating younger generations on Yoruba values, saying, “Our ancestors taught us through storytelling, and legends like Chief Lere Paimo have carried this torch. We must support them and ensure that Yoruba cultural expressions continue to thrive.”

The Oyo State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, acknowledged the contributions of Yoruba actors and assured that the Assembly would take necessary steps to ensure the implementation of the resolutions contained in the motion.

The Ogun State media community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of veteran broadcast journalist, Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, a staff member of Ogun State Television (OGTV), Abeokuta.

Mrs. Agbakaizu reportedly slumped on Monday while preparing for her afternoon shift at the state-owned television station. Despite swift efforts to save her life, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta.

Her death was confirmed in a statement by the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Mr. Bunmi Adigun. Describing her as “a versatile journalist and passionate comrade,” Adigun noted that she was a former Vice Chairman of the OGTV Chapel and served as an ex-officio member of the NUJ Council until her passing.

“Her vibrant spirit and commitment to journalism will be sorely missed,” Adigun said, noting the void her death leaves in the journalism profession in Ogun State.

She was 52 years old and is survived by her two children, aged mother, colleagues, and numerous friends.

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter, also expressed deep sorrow over her death. In a statement by Chairperson Mrs. Sekinat Salam, the association described Mrs. Agbakaizu as a compassionate professional whose leadership and passion for journalism left a lasting impression.

“Ogun NAWOJ received the news with a rude shock. Her death came at a time when her experience and leadership were most needed,” the statement read. “Her love for people, her commitment to journalism, and her devotion to God will always be remembered.”

Tributes continue to pour in as colleagues and associates recall her warmth, professionalism, and selfless contributions to the media space in Ogun State.

As the media fraternity mourns, prayers are being offered for her family, with many describing her as “an amazon of the pen profession” whose legacy will not be forgotten.

The VOICE OF THE VOICELESS NIGERIAN in Abuja has called for the immediate suspension of Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), over allegations of N80 billion fraud. The group making the call believes that the SGF’s involvement in such a large-scale financial scandal undermines the current administration’s anti-corruption efforts.

In a statement signed by the National Secretary of he Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian, Omo Oba Adewole Oluwatosin, the group expressed disappointment that despite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigating the matter, no action has been taken against Senator Akume or his aide, Mr. Torhile Uchi, who was arrested and interrogated.

The statement noted that it is unacceptable for verifiable cases of corruption to be swept under the carpet, especially during an administration that has pledged to fight corruption. The group emphasized that Senator Akume’s suspension is necessary to allow for a thorough investigation into the allegations.

The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian pointed out that the EFCC had uncovered evidence of an N80 billion money laundering case, which cannot be ignored. The group demanded accountability and transparency in the investigation and prosecution of the case.

Comparing Senator Akume’s situation to that of former SGF Babachir Lawal, who was removed from office over a relatively minor offense, the group questioned why Akume has not been held accountable for his alleged actions.

The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian warned the EFCC to provide a public update on the case within seven days or face nationwide protests. The group emphasized that Nigerians are watching the case closely and expect the EFCC to demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption.

The organization reaffirmed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration but cautioned that shielding corrupt officials would undermine the anti-corruption drive. The group urged the President to take decisive action against Senator Akume.

The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian has given President Bola Tinubu a 7-day ultimatum to sack Senator Akume; otherwise, they will take to the streets to protest, joining others in demanding accountability and transparency from the government.

…..moves for consideration of Amendment to Oyo State Hospitality and Tourism Law 2020.

The Oyo State House of Assembly at its Plenary today urged the Executive Arm of Government to implement a standardised guest registration process that includes valid identification verification and the maintenance of up – to – date guest logs accessible to authorised personnel into hotels and guesthouses across the State.

This was part of resolves on a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Oluyole State constituency, Hon. Waheed Akintayo , Co- sponsored by Hon. Rasak Mabaje and Hon. Mrs. Olubisi Michael of Ido and Ogbomosho North State constituency, respectively.

Presenting the motion at the Plenary presided over by the Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi, the mover of the motion, revealed that hotels are increasingly being used by fraudsters, commonly known as “Yahoo Boys,” who conduct cybercrime and sextortion schemes within the establishment.

“Investigation has shown that some fraudsters deliberately reside in hotels for extended periods to operate undetected.”

“These criminals exploit the anonymity of hotels, where poor guest registration and monitoring system allow them to evade law enforcement.”

Hon. Akintayo noted that the significant number of hotels and guest houses in Ibadan and across Oyo State are not duly registered with the Government despite the rapid expansion of the hospitality sector.

He added that the lack of adequate registration makes it difficult for regulatory agencies to track establishment in operation, enforce security standards , and ensure compliance with necessary regulations.

“Mandatory registration and periodic renewal will enable the Government to monitor these businesses effectively and enforce security measures where needed.” The motion stated

The House has however directed its Standing Committee on Security and Strategies and its counterpart from Culture and Tourism to engage all relevant stakeholders including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Oyo State Hotels Owners Association and deliberate on the measures to put in place in curbing the menace of insecurity in Hotels and Guest Houses across the State.

The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has taken decisive action against a sachet water factory in the Ekute Area of Ado-Ekiti, shutting it down for violating health and safety regulations.

The factory, whose name has been withheld, was found to be using an unsafe water source, prompting the ministry to seal it off. This move underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.

The ministry’s swift action serves as a warning to other factories and businesses in the state to adhere to health and safety standards. The development highlights the importance of regular monitoring and enforcement of regulations to prevent health hazards.

The Ekiti State Government’s proactive stance is expected to boost confidence in the state’s regulatory framework and ensure a safer environment for residents.

The All Progressives Congress APC in Oyo state has raised the alarm over Governor Seyi Makinde’s alleged penchant for converting large expanses of land on which agricultural practices are being carried out by farmers into housing estates warning that the trend was capable of worsening cases of food crisis and hunger in the land.

In recent times, the administration of Gov. Makinde has faced intense criticisms over issues relating to commercialization or outright sales of choice properties and pieces of land belonging to the state government as well as acquisition of some pieces of land owned by some private individuals, families and organizations claiming that the steps were taken ”in overriding public interest”.

In a statement issued at the weekend and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC decried the ongoing destruction of tree crops belonging to local farmers in parts of Akinyele and Ido local government councils allegedly by some estate developers who have been engaged by the state government to convert the farmlands on which they are making both ends meet into housing estates.

“The rate at which the present PDP administration in Oyo state is inflicting hardship on the masses has reached its crescendo and we, at the APC, can no longer keep silent. On daily basis, the Makinde administration rob the poor to further enrich the affluent few in the guise of urbanization policy and improved internally generated revenue drive. As the agents of the state forcefully eject traders and shop or office owners from their legitimate business premises, farmers are not only being chased away from their farmlands even as their growing crops and plants are destroyed to pave the way for residential buildings.

“As at last Friday; hundreds of local farmers in Idi-Igbaro and Akufo in Ido local government area as well as their colleagues in Ajibade, Olosa-oko, Alaase, Alagbaa, Oloje, Elekuru, Agbirigidi among other ancient settlements in Akinyele local government area were thrown into collosal losses as agents of the state government had destroyed all the crops on their farmlands. Among the crops which were sacrificed for housing estates are several thousands of cocoa, cashew, mango, oil palm trees and coffee as well as arable crops such as maize, cassava, yam and vegetables.

“This happened at a time citizens face food crisis in the mode of scarcity and high cost of food commodities. While states like Niger, Borno, Kebbi and Kwara are doing so much to assist and encourage their local farmers, the PDP administration in Oyo is making life unbearable to them and our governor keeps deceiving the world that he is promoting Agribusiness. As it stands, Oyo state cannot boast of a single agricultural produce which is being made available to the global market despite the vast fertile land resources and favourable weather which God has blessed the state with. This is shameful.” Oyo APC lamented.

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Directorate 1, have arrested two Chinese and six Nigerians for alleged involvement in illegal mining activities in the Ogere area of Ogun State.

The suspects: Zhang Hang Lin, Gao Pei Hai, Matthew Mathias, Oluwaseun Amoo
Wasiu Ademola Alao, Ajibola Nurudeen
Ibrahim Yinusa and Saidu Shuaibu were arrested on Friday, 9 May 2025, during a sting operation following credible intelligence received by the Commission and detailed surveillance carried out on them.

At the point of arrest, operatives recovered three trucks loaded with sacks of substances suspected to be ground lithium powder and other yet-to-be-identified solid minerals.

Other items recovered from the suspects include a Toyota 4Runner SUV, mobile phones, samples of low grade lithium, Automated Teller Machine, ATM cards, the suspects’ international passports, four pieces of LED Flashlight and other documents.

The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

Solomon, the suspect arrested by the police for allegedly stealing 28 female pants for ritual purposes in Ikoro-Ekiti, Ekiti State was brought to the Olukoro Royal Palace for further interrogation this afternoon, Friday, 9 May 2025.

In the pictures attached, the suspect was seen seated on Esu Shrine in the Ode-Ajo section of the Palace where ibura-Esu (deity’s oath) was administered to him.

According to the Ekiti Police Force PRO, investigation has begun and as soon as investigation is completed the suspect shall be charged to the Court.

Details later.

Operatives of the Ogun State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, have arrested a suspected drugs dealer in Yewa axis of the State.

The suspect, a 35 years old Obi Emmanuel, who was allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade was arrested on Thursday evening in front of a chemist shop in the bustling market area of Ayetoro in Yewa North local government area of Ogun State.

Director of Intelligence and Investigation, retired Chief Suprinrendent of Police, Shodeke Sholanke, who confirmed the news to newsmen, said the suspect already in custody undergoing interrogation.

Sholanke explained that the arrest followed a credible intelligence received by the Ogun State National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), suggesting that Emmanuel was orchestrating drug deals in the region.

The Security Chief added that the suspect had enlisted the help of a commercial driver, popularly referred to as Alausa, who is currently in NDLEA custody To transport a substantial quantity of suspected hard drugs from Abeokuta to Ayetoro.

According to him, the hard drugs has the market value of an estimated in the sum of millions of Naira.

On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, just a day before Emmanuel’s arrest, the Ogun State NDLEA intercepted the driver and a vehicle – a commercial 18-seater Mazda bus Amotekun along the Abeokuta/Ayetoro road. During questioning, the driver revealed that Emmanuel was the owner of the seized items, leading to the swift action of Amotekun operatives after an intelligence was equally received from the State NDLEA, which resulted in Emmanuel’s capture.

“The Ogun Amotekun therefore expresses its commitment to further collaborate with operatives of NDLEA in tackling drug abuse and trafficking in and around Ogun State, noting that the operation underscored the agency’s ongoing efforts to rid society of criminal elements involved in the drug trade.