Author: oduduwanews

By: Adebayo Miracle

An arrest of one Mr Stephen, Afam Ikeanyionwu who was said to be a major suspect of drug dealing was made yesterday Sunday inside a Pentecostal Church in Ojodu Area of Lagos by the NDLEA.

He was currently on the wanted list for making an attempt to export a 69.65KG of cocaine, cannabis and heroin to the UK through export shed of Muritala Muhammed International Airport.

Femi Babafemi who happens to be the Spokesman for the NDLEA, said that Mr Stephen was traced and tracked down to Pentecostal church at Mike Ajari Street, Ojodu- Berger, where he was apprehended as he was stepping out of service.

His arrest was made possible through a lead from one of his colleagues who was arrested while trying to export illicit drugs weighing 69.65kg to the UK and passing through Lagos Airport on the 12 of august Thursday. The illegal bags had been sent to Aiport for exporting the goods through an unregisterd company who also hand it over to a driver to deliver at the export shed.

It was the arrest of this driver and investigation that led the NDLEA to trace back the real owner of the drugs to Mr Stephen Afam Ikeanyionwu and he was arrested three days after a proper investigation.  

Desmond Okoroafor, a 21-year-old man living Aboru, Ipaja Area of Lagos state has been locked up for allegedly kidnapping 8-year-old son of Mr Daniel Chukwudi who was said to be his neighbour.

Desmond was arrested along side one Mr Egwuonwu Iyke, who he worked together with to kidnap the eight year old boy and held him captive in Ajangbadi area which served as their hide out. The two men reached out to the boy’s parent demanding a ransom of #2.5 million Naira for the release of the boy.

The police and securities of the state took up the matter as soon as the parent report the abduction. CSP Adekunle Ajisebutu, who happens to be the Spokesperson for the Police in Lagos state reported that Mr Desmond, made use of his chance of always welcome in the family to lure out the eight year old boy from his parent house to their secret hideout which is Ajangbadii. The victim was held  an hostage for good six days before the boy was rescued.

CSP Ajisebutu  finally mentioned the fact that these two arrested suspects will be charged to Court as the Commissioner of Police Mr Hakeem Odumosu has instructed.

The new Olu, Ogiame Atuwatse III, was crowned as the 21st Olu of Warri on Saturday at Ode-Itsekiri, ancestral home of the Itsekiri. .

Having been called upon to speak on behalf of all the Nigerian traditional rulers in his capacity as the natural head of Oduduwa Race worldwide and Co-chairman of National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria(NYCN) to bless the new Olu of Warri and welcome him into the fold, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, described the event as a red-letter day in the Itsekiri Kingdom and in the Oduduwa nation at large.

“The entire Oduduwa Race was elated about your emergence as the Olu of Warri. We are indeed happy and excited with this development.

“We the traditional rulers in Nigeria are all very delighted to welcome you on board as one of our brother kings,

“You can feel the energy in the air in Itsekiri Kingdom, you are loved by your people. I want to appeal to you, you are the father of the entire Itsekiri Kingdom now. You are the father to the good, you are the father to the bad, and you are the father to the ugly. You have to embrace the entire kingdom of Warri, extend a hand of fellowship to all and sundry, make sure that your leadership is a fatherly leadership.

“For today, God almighty and the spirit of our ancestors will continue to guide you, guard you, and lead you right in all the decisions you will be making on this throne of your forebears. We love and we appreciate and we will work with you.” Ooni said.

The representatives of the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II said “We all know what happened there when the Omo N’Oba prayed in the inner chambers of the palace. Omo N’Oba says you are going to live long. Omo N’Oba says your reign shall be peaceful. Omo N’Oba wishes you very well.”

President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie OmoAgege, said he was hopeful the reign of the monarch would witness progress, peace and development in the kingdom.

OmoAgege, whose mother is Itsekiri, later gave his own goodwill message, assuring that he will continue to support the monarch , adding that he should see him as one of his senators in the National Assembly.

Prominent Nigerian traditional rulers pthat graced the coronation occasion on Saturday at Ode Itsekiri include, Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, Olowo of Owo kingdom, HRM, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, Ohinoyi of Ebira land, HRM, Alhaji Dr Abdul Rahman Ado Ibrahim, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti, HRM, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, the Akarigbo of Remo, HRM, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, the Olubosin of Ifetedo, HRM, Oba Akinola Akinrera and others.

Obasanjo on Sunday during the Thanksgiving Service at the palace Chapel urged the new Olu of Warri to unite his people, utilise the wisdom of elders and stay close to God in all his dealings.

“Two things must guide you: one, do not shun the experience and advice of elders, it is useful.

Experience is wisdom, make use of the experience of people around you. Secondly, be very close to God.

You must diligently perform the task God had entrusted to you as this position was given to you by God.

Please note that “His Majesty” carried a lot of responsibilities and I urge you not to shun the experience and advice of the elders.” Obasanjo said.

Also In his speech during the Thanksgiving, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta urged the new Itsekiri monarch to extend the olive branch to any aggrieved Itsekiri.

“I am aware a lot of healing processes are ongoing.
It is time for healing; ensure the entirety of the kingdom comes together. Whether stubborn or not, extend the olive branch to them.

You have a lot of work to do in Nigeria. We cannot afford any distraction at home, so that the larger nation will have your presence in the nation-building.” Okowa said.

His Majesty, Ogiame Tsola Emiko, the 21st Olu of Warri, as a son of the 19th Olu of Warri, Atunwase the 2nd who reigned from 1987 and 2015. He is a bonafide descendant of Oduduwa king of Ile-Ife from whom he derived his princehood and royalty through the lineages of Oranmiyan, Eweka the first Oba of Benin and Omoba Ginuwa, a Prince of Benin who became the first Olu of Warri.

The Acting Registrar of the prestigious Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, Mr Oladele Oladipo, has rejoiced with the Chairman, Governing Council of the institution, Prof. Samuel Ogundiran as he celebrates 55 years of existence.

He described him in a statement sent today to ODUDUWA NEWS as an icon of humanity and a builder of first-class leaders, who has made significant impacts in his career and also towards everyone around him.

Speaking further on the impacts of the Council Chairman in the institution, he appreciated his commitment towards development. “It is visible to the blind and audible to the deaf that the accelerated development and peaceful coexistence among the staff, management, and students of the institution could be attributed to the initiatives and leadership acumen of the institution’s Council Chairman. The institution, Ibarapa, and Oyo State at large will never forget your unending efforts,” he said.

“Sir, you have demonstrated that, good leaders are the stars of the night and the moon that gives light to our path in the dark. I’m glad for your achievements and the attainment of academic heights, Leaders like you are few and uneasy to come by,” he concluded.

He wished him a happy birthday and many happy returns of the day.

Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has apologised to the government and people of Ondo State following the Rukuba road attack leading to the killing of their people.

Recall that about 23 people from Ondo, passing through Jos, were killed on August 14, while 23 were reportedly injured.

They were attacked on their way to Ondo along Rukuba Road in Jos North Local Government Area of which more than 30 were rescued by security agents.

Gov. Lalong, through his deputy, Prof. Sonny Tyoden, apologised for the attack that led a delegation from the state to Ondo for a condolence visit, and to formally deliver the survivors of the unfortunate attacks.

The governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Makut Macham, in a statement of apology, stated that the deputy governor explained that the visit was to convey the condolences and apologies of the people and Plateau State government to their families as well as the entire people of Ondo State.

Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo, while responding, thanked Lalong for his quick intervention and other proactive measures taken to prevent the situation from escalating.

Akeredolu, represented by his deputy, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, explained that on receiving the news, immediately went to the cattle market to sympathise with the leadership of the Fulani brethren over the incident.

The governor assured of his administration’s concern on the welfare of all citizens irrespective of their backgrounds, and appreciated his colleague for sending a high level delegation to accompany their people back home.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of former Sole Administrator of Ekiti State, Brigadier-General Adetunji Olurin (rtd).

Olurin, a former Military Governor of Oyo State and Field Commander of ECOMOG Peacekeeping Force in Liberia during the Liberian Civil War, died at a hospital in Lagos on Saturday morning at the age of 76 years.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, on Saturday, described the late Olurin as a committed officer and elder statesman who served his country passionately.

The Governor also praised Olurin’s contribution to governance in Oyo and Ekiti States during his tenure as Military Governor and Sole Administrator in the two states respectively.

He also commiserated with Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and the entire people of Ogun State, especially the indigenes of Ilaro on the demise of their illustrious son.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and associates of the late Brigadier-General Adetunji Olurin (rtd) as well as the Nigerian Army, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and the entire people of the State.

“He was a committed military officer. He fought, along with several other patriots tirelessly for a united Nigeria as well as ECOMOG during his days in the Nigerian Army.

“He also made lots of positive impact and contributions to governance during his lifetime, first as a Military Governor of Oyo State between September 1985 and July 1988 and later as Sole Administrator of Ekiti State between October 19, 2006 and April 27, 2007.

“I pray that God will grant Brigadier-General Adetunji Olurin (rtd) eternal rest and give the immediate family, friends, Nigerian Army and the people of Ilaro and Ogun State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Governor Sanwo-Olu prayed.

By: Isedowo Oluwatosin Temijuayolo

Following the flood prediction for this year, the Federal Government disclosed placing  response agencies on red alert in flood-prone areas of Ekiti State to avert disasters.

The response agencies include the federal and state Fire Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), among others.

The response agencies  warn residents of the state to avoid dumping refuse and erecting buildings on water channels as part of the preventive measures against flooding.

On the 21st of August, 2021, the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Habib Mustapha Ahmed, stated at a stakeholders’ meeting ,an awareness campaign on flood preparedness, response, and mitigation in order to avert the flood issue

According to Ahmed, who was represented by the Head of Operation in Ekiti State, Mr. Olusegun Afolayan, the meeting became imperative because of the consequences of the flooding, which would impact negatively on people in the various communities.

“All hands must be put on deck to mitigate the occurrence of flood disasters that may likely occur between September and October 2021.”

He appealed to the local councils to sensitise people in their domains against dumping refuse in water channels and to help clear drainages so as to allow free flow of water, especially in the flood-prone areas.

Following the gruesome murder of a former student leader of the Lagos State University (LASU) and a socialist campaigner, Comrade Nurudeen Alowonle a.k.a Omomewa by armed assailants, a member of staff of the institution has urged the Lagos State Government to illuminate the entire LASU-Iba Road and increase patrol of security agencies in the axis.

Comrade Omomewa was said to have been murdered at about 8pm, near the LASU-Iba gate of the institution.

According to sources, Comrade Omomewa died from the gun shot by yet to be identified gun men, while another staff of the institution who was attacked alongside the said Comrade escaped with gun shot wounds.

The said staff is at the moment recuperating in an undisclosed hospital.

Reacting to a statement by the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso to the effect that Western Avenue in Lagos had been illuminated, the said LASU staff urged the government to do more in that regard across the state.

“All bright: Western Avenue in Lagos … this evening. The retrofitting of street lamps for a brighter, cleaner and safer environment continues,” the Commissioner had said in a post which was accompanied with pictures of Western Avenue.

Responding, the LASU staff said: “Sir, this is commendable, but more work to be done around Lagos.

“Two days ago, a former student of Lagos State University ( LASU) late Comrade Omomewa was shot alongside a staff, around 8 pm, near the LASU Iba end gate.

“We call on the government as a matter of urgency to do something around the LASU axis by illuminating that end.

“Also, there is need for the presence of security men near the campus on patrol.
Thank you,” he said.

On his part, Mr Ogunwusi Bamidele Segun, a journalist with Daily Independent newspaper, urged the state government to do something about the fact that Lagos is now very dark at nights.

“It was possible for armed robbers to operate between Alaka and Surulere few days ago because the area was dark. More works need to be done in that axis and many other places in Lagos. Lagos is now very dark at nights,” Ogunwusi said.

Also speaking, another journalist, Mr Chris Kehinde Nwandu admitted that the state was making progress but said more work needed to be done to address traffic robberies.

“We’re making progress but more still have to be done in the area of security especially traffic robberies, said Nwandu.

Other commentators commended the ongoing retrofitting of street lights in the state.

By: Isedowo Oluwatosin

The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has expressed his condolences on the death of a former Administrator of the state, Brig.-Gen. Adetunji Idowu Olurin (rtd.), who passed away yesterday 21 August,2021, at the age of 76.

Gen. Olurin, a former military Governor of the old Oyo State, served as Sole Administrator of Ekiti State for six months between October 19, 2006 and April 27, 2007, during the state of emergency imposed by the Olusegun Obasanjo Administration in the wake of political crisis that engulfed the state at the time.

Governor Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, described Gen. Olurin’s death as a great loss to Nigeria, Ogun State, his home state and Ekiti, which he helped stabilise during the six-month emergency rule.

He described the late General as a selfless statesman, courageous soldier and an altruistic patriot who served his country diligently while in active service and during his retirement.

The Governor pointed out that the deceased discharged his duties as the Sole Administrator of Ekiti State with a great measure of fairness and firmness and left some legacies he would remembered for in the annals of history of the Land of Honour.

Dr. Fayemi said although the late Gen. Olurin was a soldier, he was a man of the people who was very much concerned about their welfare and ever ready to solve problems brought to his attention.

The Governor noted that Gen. Olurin brought his humane nature and professionalism to bear during his tenure as the Military Governor of the old Oyo State and while on peace- keeping assignment as the Field Commander of ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in Liberia.

According to him, the history of how a lasting peace was achieved in the then war- torn Liberia would not be complete without a worthy mention and glowing chapters written on the sterling contributions of the late General Olurin.

On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the immediate family and associates of our amiable General Olurin. Our prayer is that God will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.” the Governor said.

Olusegun Falola, one of the lawyers of embattled Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, aka Sunday Igboho, has said his client’s stay in Benin Republic detention is a blessing in disguise.

The 48-year-old agitator, who was first detained at the Brigade économique et financière (BEF), is at Prison Civile de Cotonou — Cotonou Civil Prison.

In the last judgment, the Cour De’appal De Cotonou ordered that Igboho should be kept in prison custody.

At the 13-hour hearing, the court ruled that Igboho be sent to pre-trial detention pending conclusion of the investigation.

Speaking on efforts on Igboho’s freedom, he said: “Igboho’s arrest shows he was cheated, because he didn’t commit any criminal offense.

“I plead with all Yorubas and Nigerians at large, don’t see Sunday Igboho as a convict, see him as someone who is under Benin Republic’s protection. Igboho is only staying underground for now until when there is breath of fresh air.

“Nigeria did not show up in court or bring up evidence against Sunday Igboho. So there is no criminal charges against him. When Igboho leaves prison, he’ll demand asylum from other countries including France, and they we’ll be ready to receive him.

“So he’ll return back to Nigeria when the administration that is against him leaves office.”

On steps Igboho will take after regaining freedom, Falola said: “If Nigeria is yet to be a safe haven for him (Igboho) to return, especially for his freedom and maximum security, all his cars in Ibadan and businesses will be done in Cotonou.

“The judges asked Igboho if he had land in Cotonou and he responded that he has a land in Seme.

“So, there is still danger ahead. Igboho’s asylum in Cotonou is for him to stay in the country and do his businesses in country and also travel to Germany to either live there or to travel to and fro. He’ll use Benin as his new home until Buhari’s tenure is over just for his own safety.

“We should be thankful to Benin Republic government for granting Igboho access to medical attention, also his wife, Ropo goes freely to see him to also interact with him and bring food regularly.

“If Igboho had been captured the way Kanu was extradited to Nigeria, then we won’t be talking about him today, his health would have worsened, look at how his aides have been treated.”

Falola further stated that “Once the storm is gradually coming to an end, Igboho will regain his freedom.

“He is hale and hearty, and also in good condition. He is also getting more medical attention for him to be fit especially ahead of any future political ambitions.”

“Sunday Igboho’s stay in the prison is not befitting for his status but it is a blessing in disguise, just to keep him protected.” He added.