Author: oduduwanews

Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has raised fresh concerns over what he described as growing signs that Nigeria’s democracy may be tilting toward a one-party state, warning that such a development could weaken accountability and silence opposing voices.

In his latest newsletter, the Oyo State Governor pointed to recent developments within the (PDP), the (ADC), as well as positions taken by the (INEC) and the judiciary, noting that these trends are raising serious questions about the future of democratic governance in Nigeria.

Makinde warned that the increasing marginalization and fragmentation of opposition voices could discourage citizen participation, as many Nigerians may begin to feel their voices no longer matter in shaping the nation’s future. According to him, a healthy democracy thrives on balance, credible alternatives, and strong institutions that guarantee accountability.

The governor stressed that when opposition becomes ineffective, governance suffers, as those in power may no longer be held accountable. He cautioned that while Nigeria has not yet reached a point of no return, the country is at a critical juncture where silence and indifference could lead to long-term consequences.

Addressing concerns about leadership transition in Oyo State, Makinde assured residents that consultations are ongoing with credible individuals as part of a deliberate succession process. He added that a decision on the future leadership direction of the state will be communicated in due course, reflecting both past achievements and future priorities.

Makinde emphasized that democracy is built on plurality and the inclusion of diverse voices, even those in disagreement. He called on both leaders and citizens to remain actively engaged in protecting Nigeria’s democratic space, insisting that the country has come too far to become complacent.

He further disclosed plans to engage stakeholders across various sectors in the coming days to explore ways of strengthening democratic institutions in an inclusive, lawful, and sustainable manner.

The governor concluded by urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and participatory, noting that democracy can only thrive when citizens continue to ask questions and demand that institutions work in the interest of the people.

Operatives of the Ekiti State Police Command have arrested a suspected car and motorcycle thief in a renewed crackdown on criminal activities across the state. The suspect, whose identity is yet to be fully disclosed, was apprehended following a series of complaints from residents over the disappearance of vehicles and motorcycles in parts of Ado-Ekiti.

According to sources within the command, the arrest was made possible through intelligence gathering and coordinated surveillance by police operatives. The suspect was reportedly tracked after attempting to dispose of a stolen motorcycle, which raised suspicion among local residents who alerted security authorities.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to involvement in multiple theft operations, targeting parked vehicles and motorcycles in residential areas and public spaces. Police investigations further revealed that the suspect may be part of a wider syndicate specializing in vehicle theft and illegal resale. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.

Items recovered from the suspect include a motorcycle believed to have been stolen, as well as tools commonly used for breaking locks and ignitions. The police have assured residents that all recovered items will be returned to their rightful owners after proper identification and documentation.

The Ekiti State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements in their communities. Residents were also advised to adopt better security measures to prevent theft.

The suspect is expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has insisted on proceeding with the coronation of newly elevated traditional rulers in Ibadanland, despite the notable absence of the and several high-ranking chiefs who boycotted the ceremony.

The coronation ceremony, currently underway in Ibadan, is set to officially install three prominent figures: His Royal Majesty, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin (Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland), His Royal Majesty, Oba Oyekola Babalola (SAN) (Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland), and His Royal Majesty, Oba Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli (Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland), who is also absent from the event. The development has sparked widespread reactions within traditional and political circles, as the absence of key stakeholders casts a shadow over the exercise.

Despite the boycott, the state government maintained that all necessary arrangements had been concluded, with dignitaries, government officials, and cultural groups in attendance. The event has drawn a large crowd, with popular Fuji musician billed to entertain guests, adding a cultural flair to the historic ceremony.

Sources within the traditional council suggest that the boycott may not be unconnected to lingering disagreements over the recent chieftaincy reforms and elevation of high chiefs to beaded crown-wearing Obas, a policy that has generated tension within the Ibadan traditional hierarchy. Critics argue that the move alters long-standing customs, while supporters insist it is aimed at modernizing the system.

Governor Makinde, however, has remained resolute, emphasizing that the reforms are in line with legal provisions and intended to strengthen traditional institutions. As the ceremony progresses, observers note that the outcome may further shape the future dynamics of Ibadan’s traditional leadership structure, even as calls for reconciliation among stakeholders continue to grow.

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Dr Gbenga Hashim, has accused the Federal Government of failing in its constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property amid renewed violence across Borno , Plateau, Kaduna and Kwara states.

In a statement reacting to recent attacks in these states, Hashim described the deteriorating security situation as “a national tragedy unfolding in plain sight.”

He cited the reported terrorist assault in Maiduguri, the alleged killing of over 200 residents in Woro community in Kwara State,the killings of wedding guests in Kaduna State and the death of more than 30 people in Jos, noting that the scale and frequency of the incidents suggest systemic failure within the nation’s security architecture.

“This is no longer a case of isolated security breaches. What we are witnessing is a collapse of responsibility at the highest level,” he said.

Hashim criticised what he described as a pattern of official responses characterised by condolence messages and assurances without corresponding decisive action, arguing that such reactions have neither deterred perpetrators nor reassured vulnerable communities.

He expressed concern over the absence of a clear, coordinated national strategy to confront armed groups, safeguard communities, and ensure justice for victims.

According to him, there is also a growing disconnect between government leadership and the realities faced by citizens, as violence persists across several regions.
“Beyond condolence visits by politicians, the security high command has not presented inspiring plans to halt the killings, protect communities, or decisively confront and punish those responsible,” he said.

The PDP chieftain further alleged that global attention has shifted away from Nigeria’s security crisis, warning that continued violence risks becoming normalised if urgent steps are not taken.
He therefore, called on both Nigerians and the international community to prioritise the protection of lives and take concrete action against what he described as “daily massacres.”

“With the Iran War taking the centre stage, the world seem to have forgotten that there is an ongoing war of terror that has claimed over Eighteen thousand lives in the past three years of the inept Tinubu Administration.” He said

“Whilst officials of the Administration gallivant western capitals on political and health tourism people die everyday in scores unreported and under reported in the hand of terrorists the civilised world has stopped asking the Nigerian officials the tough questions.” he said.

“The initial grandstanding by the inept Administration in Abuja touting renewed security initiatives has faded away as soon as international attention waned while the Tinubu Administration launches grand political efforts aimed at its perpetuating in office,” Dr. Hashim lamented.

Dr. Hashim made a clarion call for patriotic Nigerians and global leaders to stand up for Nigeria, “Nigerian Lives matter too. It is time for all lovers of lives and peace within Nigeria and world over to arise and take action to stop the daily massacres in Nigeria.” He said.

Hashim warned that the normalization of mass killings poses a serious threat to national stability and public confidence in government institutions.

While extending condolences to victims and their families, Hashim stressed that expressions of sympathy alone are no longer sufficient.

“Condolences are no longer enough. Immediate action to stop the killings is what is needed,” he said.

Workers attached to the Ondo State Government House, including sweepers and other low-income staff, have cried out over the non-payment of their allowances since January, warning that their living conditions have worsened as the Easter season approaches.

The aggrieved workers, many of whom rely solely on the stipends to cater for their families, expressed frustration over what they described as prolonged neglect by authorities. Some of them lamented that they have continued to report for duty daily despite not receiving any financial support for months, insisting that survival has become increasingly difficult amid rising economic hardship. According to them, “we are hungry” and can no longer cope without immediate intervention.

Sources familiar with the situation revealed that the affected workers have repeatedly appealed to relevant government officials, but their concerns have yet to receive a concrete response. The delay in payment has reportedly left several workers unable to meet basic needs such as food, transportation, and healthcare, heightening tensions within the workforce.

The development reflects a broader pattern of welfare concerns among public workers in Ondo State, where issues around delayed payments and allowances have surfaced in recent times. Labour groups in tertiary institutions have also raised alarms over unpaid arrears and financial obligations, urging the state government to act swiftly to prevent further hardship among workers.

As Easter draws nearer, the affected workers are calling on the state government to urgently settle all outstanding allowances, warning that continued silence may force them to take further action to press home their demands.

The Oyo State Government has announced plans for the coronation and presentation of Staff of Office to newly elevated crown-wearing Obas in Ibadanland, in a move aimed at reinforcing traditional institutions and preserving the state’s cultural heritage.

The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the historic , with proceedings set to commence at 10:00 a.m. The event is expected to attract dignitaries from across the country, including traditional rulers, top government officials, and members of the public.

According to the government, three prominent traditional title holders will be officially crowned. They include His Royal Majesty Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin, the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland; His Royal Majesty Oba Oyekola Babalola, SAN, the Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland; and His Royal Majesty Oba Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli, the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland.

The presentation of the Staff of Office by Governor will formally recognise their elevated status as crown-wearing Obas within the Ibadan traditional hierarchy, reflecting ongoing reforms in the structure of traditional leadership in the ancient city.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government noted that the Makinde administration has installed 12 kings and over 40 Baales since 2019, describing the achievement as unprecedented in the history of chieftaincy appointments in Oyo State.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Demola Ojo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering unity, cultural pride, and inclusive development through sustained collaboration with traditional authorities across the state.

The coronation ceremony is expected to further consolidate the role of traditional rulers in governance and community development, while strengthening the rich cultural identity of Ibadanland.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, have raised fresh concerns over the future of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the country could face a situation where only one presidential candidate emerges in the 2027 general election.

The duo issued the warning on Thursday at the fifth Comrade Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held in Lagos, where several civil society leaders, labour activists, and political stakeholders gathered to reflect on the state of the nation’s democracy. Femi Falana, who delivered a lecture at the event, expressed deep concern over what he described as increasing judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties.

Falana argued that conflicting court orders and legal manipulations are being deployed to destabilise opposition parties, thereby weakening Nigeria’s multiparty system. According to him, if the trend continues unchecked, it could pave the way for a one-party dominance in which only a single candidate contests the presidency. He warned that such a development would undermine democratic choice and render elections meaningless, stressing that Nigeria might not even need to conduct an election if only one candidate emerges.

The senior advocate’s remarks come amid recent controversies involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly its stance on party leadership disputes and recognition of factions within opposition parties. Falana criticised the judiciary for allegedly overstepping its bounds despite provisions in the Electoral Act that limit court interference in party affairs.

Corroborating his position, Gani Adams warned that Nigeria is gradually drifting toward a one-party system, accusing those in power of using judicial mechanisms to suppress opposition voices and the will of the electorate. He urged Nigerians not to remain silent in the face of perceived injustice, noting that political power is transient and silence today could have consequences tomorrow.

Both speakers called on civil society organisations, labour unions, and pro-democracy groups to rise in defence of democratic principles. Falana emphasised the need for coordinated civic action, warning that unstructured protests could lead to instability if not properly managed.

The warning comes as political alignments and party disputes intensify ahead of the 2027 general election, scheduled for January 16, 2027, with growing debates about the strength of opposition parties and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Observers say the concerns raised by Falana and Adams reflect broader anxieties about judicial neutrality, political competition, and the sustainability of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy as the next election cycle approaches.

There was tension on Wednesday night in Ojaba area of Ibadan as a violent clash reportedly broke out between Hausa and Yoruba groups, leaving several persons injured.

Eyewitnesses said the altercation, which started as a disagreement, quickly escalated into a full-blown fight, causing panic among traders, residents, and passersby in the busy commercial hub. Shops were hurriedly shut while many people fled the scene to avoid being caught in the violence.

It has also been confirmed that clashing groups are breaking into homes and houses in Ile-Iba, Elesinmeta and other suburbs in search of people to unleash terror on.

Although the exact cause of the clash remains unclear as of press time, sources within the area suggested that tensions had been building before the incident erupted. No official casualty figures have been confirmed, but multiple persons were said to have sustained varying degrees of injuries.

As of the time of filing this report, security operatives were yet to issue an official statement, but residents are calling for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation. Similar ethnic-related clashes have occurred in Ibadan in the past, sometimes leading to injuries, loss of lives, and destruction of property.

Authorities are expected to respond swiftly to restore calm, while residents have been advised to avoid the affected area until normalcy is fully restored.

A fresh war of words has erupted between Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over the performance of the state’s Independent Power Project (IPP) in Ibadan.

Adelabu had publicly criticized the Makinde-led administration, describing the 11KV power project at the State Secretariat, Agodi, as a “moribund” initiative and a “woeful failure.” He alleged that despite billions of naira invested, the project has not generated “a single kilowatt” of electricity for residents, questioning the state government’s capacity to deliver on power interventions.

The minister further argued that the inability of the project to deliver tangible results undermines the state’s criticism of the Federal Government’s efforts in the power sector. He maintained that power generation and distribution are complex and require technical expertise, insisting that the Oyo project has failed to meet expectations.

In a swift rebuttal, the Oyo State Government dismissed Adelabu’s claims as inaccurate and misleading. The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources clarified that the IPP was largely privately funded and had, in fact, generated about 5MW during its testing phase, supplying electricity to key government facilities for several months.

The state government also emphasized that payments made were strictly for electricity consumed during testing, not for project construction, countering allegations of wasted public funds. It added that the project’s limitations were tied more to distribution expansion challenges rather than generation failure.

Amid the controversy, the Makinde administration revealed that it has moved on to a more advanced 12MW Ibadan Independent Power Gas Project aimed at delivering a scalable and sustainable electricity solution across strategic locations in the state.

The exchange highlights growing tensions between federal and state actors over electricity reforms following the Electricity Act, with both sides defending their roles in addressing Nigeria’s persistent power challenges.

The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 18 suspects in connection with the recent attack on police officers deployed to manage the lingering communal crisis between and Ilobu and Erin-Osun communities.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi , authorities disclosed that 14 additional suspects were apprehended through intelligence-led operations, bringing the total number of arrests to 18. The suspects, who had reportedly gone into hiding after the attack, were tracked and arrested on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.

The police also confirmed the recovery of weapons linked to the incident, including a single-barrel gun, a live cartridge, and a cutlass. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue, with authorities assuring that all those involved will be prosecuted in accordance with the law while respecting their fundamental human rights.

The arrests follow a fresh outbreak of violence in the affected communities, where hoodlums allegedly attacked police officers who were responding to intelligence reports of a possible clash over a long-standing boundary dispute. The situation escalated when officers deployed to maintain peace came under attack while attending to a distress call in Ilobu.

According to the police, although the operatives initially dispersed the violent group, some youths later regrouped and launched another assault on the officers. One officer was reportedly dragged to the palace of the Olobu, where he was subjected to inhumane treatment before being rescued.

Condemning the attack, Commissioner Gotan has ordered the immediate deployment of an intervention team to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order. The Command warned that additional suspects already identified will soon be arrested and prosecuted.

The police further urged residents of both communities to remain law-abiding and support security agencies with timely information, stressing that any attack on law enforcement personnel will attract the full weight of the law.