Category: Featured

A chieftain of the (APC) and former Chairman of the (NCC), , has declared that his extensive track record in public service and grassroots development positions him as the most qualified candidate to represent Oyo North Senatorial District in the Senate.

Akande made this assertion while speaking with journalists, highlighting his longstanding ties with the people and a career marked by impactful service. According to him, his journey through various strategic roles including Deputy Chief Press Secretary and Communications Strategist to the President, Chief of Staff to a former Oyo State governor, and leadership positions at the (NITDA) and NCC has consistently translated into tangible benefits for his community.

“To start with, I’ve always been part of the community. God has given me opportunities to serve, and in all these roles, I have ensured that my people benefit. That, to me, is the most important thing for any politician,” he said.

The senatorial aspirant maintained that his achievements across Oyo State serve as a visible testament to his capacity to deliver effective representation. He noted that his widespread impact eliminates the need for excessive political persuasion.

“If you go around Oyo North, indeed across Oyo State, my footprint is everywhere. I don’t need much effort to convince people that I will represent them efficiently if given the opportunity,” he added.

Citing key interventions during his tenure at the NCC, Akande pointed to multiple ICT projects worth over a billion naira each, facilitated in institutions such as the and . He also highlighted campus-wide internet installations at institutions in Ogbomoso, Saki, Oyo, and Igboora, as well as ICT centres in several tertiary institutions and secondary schools.

Beyond education, he noted that markets and public infrastructure also benefited from digital connectivity projects, including Bodija Market and . He further recalled facilitating a state-of-the-art ambulance to the during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Akande also underscored his commitment to youth empowerment, revealing that over 1,000 young people were trained in ICT under his leadership at the NCC, with beneficiaries receiving laptops, data support, and mentorship to become self-reliant in the digital economy.

Speaking on his professional background, Akande argued that his unique blend of experience as a journalist, political science lecturer, and legal practitioner has equipped him with the necessary tools for effective lawmaking.

“Journalism is about the welfare of the people, political science is about governance for the greater good, and law is about order and justice. Combining these, I am eminently prepared for legislative duties,” he said.

Reaffirming his ambition, Akande expressed confidence in his readiness for the Senate, insisting that both his experience and contributions to society make him a strong candidate to represent Oyo North effectively.

“By virtue of my training and my service to the community, I am eminently qualified. I have no doubt that I will be a good representative of my people,” he concluded.

The on Saturday recorded a massive turnout as it held a high-profile political rally in , the hometown of Osun State Governor, .

The rally, which took place at a central venue in the ancient town, attracted party faithful, supporters, and curious residents, marking a significant political statement in a territory widely regarded as a stronghold of the governor and the ruling (PDP).

Party leaders and chieftains who addressed the crowd described the turnout as a clear indication of growing support for the Accord Party across Osun State. They emphasized the need for credible alternatives in governance, promising inclusive leadership, economic revitalization, and people-oriented policies if given the mandate in future elections.

Speaking at the event, key figures within the party reiterated their commitment to grassroots mobilization, noting that the choice of Ede for the rally was deliberate. According to them, the impressive crowd turnout sends a strong signal that political dominance in the state is no longer exclusive to any single party.

Residents who attended the rally expressed mixed reactions. While some lauded the Accord Party for bringing political engagement closer to the people, others viewed the event as a bold but challenging move in a town traditionally loyal to Governor Adeleke.

Political analysts say the rally could reshape the dynamics ahead of future electoral contests in Osun State, as opposition parties intensify efforts to penetrate perceived strongholds of incumbents.

Security operatives were visibly present throughout the event to maintain order, while party supporters displayed banners, chanted slogans, and danced in a festive atmosphere that underscored the rally’s significance.

The development signals a potentially shifting political landscape in Osun, as parties begin early mobilization and strategic positioning ahead of upcoming elections.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has approached a Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, follows the removal of their names and those of other members of the party’s National Working Committee from INEC’s official portal on April 1.

In a motion on notice dated April 7, counsel to Mark, Sulaiman Usman (SAN), urged the court to issue a mandatory injunction directing INEC to reinstate the affected officials as they were before the dispute.

The application, filed under the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, is seeking three major reliefs, including an order setting aside INEC’s decision to remove the names of the party’s National Working Committee from its portal.

Part of the relief also seeks to compel the electoral body to resume monitoring the party’s congresses and convention pending the determination of the case.

The ADC further prayed the court to direct INEC to immediately restore and maintain records recognising David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, alongside other members of the National Executive Committee.

Additionally, the party is asking the court to restrain INEC from interfering with its leadership structure or recognising any rival claims until the final resolution of the matter.

The legal action marks a fresh twist in the leadership crisis rocking the ADC, as the party battles to stabilise its internal structure ahead of future political activities.

Gunmen have killed a woman and her daughter during a kidnapping attack at a poultry farm in Igushi via Ala, in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State. Reports indicate that about five armed men stormed the farm on Thursday, killing the owner and her daughter, who was working alongside others at the time of the incident.

Confirming the attack on Friday in Akure, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said two victims were rescued alive during a swift police operation.

He described the incident as a heinous act and expressed the command’s deep sorrow over the loss of lives. Jimoh assured residents that security measures have been strengthened across the area, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest those responsible.

He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely and credible information.

The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Education Intervention, Oloye Suraj Tiamiy , has dismissed recent reports alleging that the education system in Oyo State is in crisis, describing such claims as misleading and not reflective of realities on ground.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Tiamy maintained that the narrative of a failing education sector contradicts ongoing reforms and strategic investments by the state government. He pointed to the renovation and construction of over 300 classrooms, the establishment of ICT-driven digital learning centres, and the provision of functional libraries and modern learning materials across public schools.

“Our monitoring teams have confirmed that students are actively engaged and are benefiting from improved and modern learning facilities. Teachers are also being trained, supported, and motivated to deliver quality education. To describe our schools as being on ‘life support’ is simply not true,” Tiamy stated.

He further noted that the administration has placed strong emphasis on teacher welfare, capacity building, and accountability, ensuring that educators are well-equipped to meet contemporary teaching standards and deliver improved learning outcomes.

Tiamy, however, urged critics and stakeholders to prioritize fact-checking before making public claims, stressing that while constructive criticism is welcome, it must be balanced and reflective of the progress recorded.

“Under Governor Makinde, Oyo State has witnessed significant transformation in education—ranging from infrastructure upgrades to teacher development, ICT integration, and enhanced learning resources—positioning the state as a pacesetter in educational reform in southwestern Nigeria,” he added.

Governor of has officially distributed 40 brand-new Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, in a move aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and enhancing the mobility of royal fathers.

The presentation ceremony, held at the Government House in Abeokuta, saw the governor reaffirm his administration’s commitment to recognizing the critical role traditional institutions play in maintaining peace, promoting cultural heritage, and facilitating community development. He noted that the provision of the vehicles would enable the monarchs to respond more effectively to security and administrative demands within their domains.

Governor Abiodun emphasized that traditional rulers remain key partners in governance, especially in areas of conflict resolution, intelligence gathering, and community engagement. According to him, the gesture is part of a broader strategy to support and empower royal fathers as vital stakeholders in the state’s socio-political framework.

In their response, the beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation to the governor for the initiative, describing it as unprecedented and timely. They pledged continued support for government policies and programs, while assuring that the vehicles would be judiciously used to enhance service delivery at the grassroots level.

The event was attended by top government officials, members of the State Executive Council, and prominent traditional rulers from various parts of the state, underscoring the significance of the initiative in fostering stronger collaboration between the government and traditional institutions.

The unfolding political drama surrounding Gov Seyi Makinde has once again exposed the fragile state of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly in Oyo State. With the party’s internal crisis still unresolved at both national and state levels, reports suggest that the governor is considering a strategic alignment with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of 2027 general elections, even as he remains formally within the PDP structure. This dual positioning reflects not only political calculation but also the deep uncertainty currently plaguing Nigeria’s opposition landscape.

At the heart of the matter is Makinde’s reported plan to influence the emergence of candidates possibly under the NDC platform while retaining his PDP membership, at least for now. This raises critical questions about party loyalty, ideological consistency, and the future of democratic competition. Sources indicate that the governor is keen on installing successors who will sustain his policy direction and protect his political legacy as the 2027 general elections draw closer, a move seen by insiders as a pragmatic attempt to maintain relevance beyond his tenure.

The lingering crisis within the PDP, exacerbated by leadership tussles and factional divisions, has created fertile ground for alternative political platforms. The rift involving key figures such as Nyesom Wike and other party stakeholders has further weakened internal cohesion, making the party less attractive to ambitious politicians seeking stability ahead of future elections. In this context, the NDC is being positioned as a viable refuge for disenchanted members, with reports of active lobbying by figures like Seriake Dickson to bring Makinde into the fold.

However, this emerging strategy carries significant implications. If Makinde indeed backs candidates on a different platform while staying in the PDP, it could deepen distrust within party ranks and accelerate its fragmentation in Oyo State. It may also set a precedent where political actors hedge their bets across multiple platforms, weakening party discipline and ideological clarity. Ultimately, while the governor’s approach may be politically expedient, it underscores a broader concern: the erosion of strong party systems in Nigeria’s democracy.

As stakeholders await the outcome of Makinde’s consultations and next moves, one thing remains clear his decision will not only shape the political future of Oyo State but could also redefine alliances and opposition dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.

This is a periodic editorial of Oduduwa News. All rights reserved. For inquiries, contact: oduduwanews1@gmail.com.

Set to collaborate with others to prevent one party state

A Chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Gbenga Hahim has written to formally “convey his resignation from the Party with immediate effect.”

In a letter dated 4th April, 2026, addressed to the Chairman, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Usuma Ward, Bwari Area Council, Abuja, FCT, Dr. Hashim reminded him that “the party has been embroiled in persistent and unending crises for over a year, leading to its complete factionalization into two dominant groups.

“You are also witness to the numerous reconciliation efforts I undertook, alongside other well meaning leaders, to bridge these divisions and restore unity within the party.

Regrettably, these efforts did not yield the desired results.”

Hashim, one of the Conveners of PDP (1998) and the First Elected Deputy National Publicity Secretary explained that “It has become increasingly evident that the crisis was, in part, orchestrated to weaken the PDP as a viable opposition, potentially preventing it from fielding credible candidates in the 2027 election or, at worst, reducing it to a position of tacit support for the incumbent administration.

“I cannot, in good conscience, be complicit in actions that undermine democratic values. To remain in a system that appears to endorse a leadership record I fundamentally disagree with would be a betrayal of my principles and commitment to the Nigerian people.”

According to him, “today, Nigeria faces severe challenges; widespread insecurity across multiple regions, the tragic and continuous loss of innocent lives, and an economy in distress, with rising poverty among millions. It would be inconsistent with my convictions to remain part of any arrangement that appears to legitimize or sustain these conditions.

“Nigeria today is experiencing terrorist wars in four of our six regions.

He added that “massacres of innocent people have become a daily occurrence. Over eighteen thousand people have been killed in terrorist violence in the three years of the current administration.

“The economy has crumbled, and crippling poverty has soared. Only wickedness, greed and lack of integrity would keep any leader in a system that appears to endorse such outcomes or participate in any charade to coronate a pre-determined candidate.”

He added that “It is indeed disheartening that a great party, founded by some of Nigeria’s most committed democrats and patriots has been brought to its knees by internal divisions and individuals whose primary distinction is that they benefited the most from the public offices entrusted to them by the PDP.

“At this juncture, I believe it is necessary for me to step aside and pursue a new path.

” I am compelled by the urgent political realities of our time to collaborate with other patriotic leaders and citizens who are committed to preventing the emergence of a one party state and to building a new political order that guarantees security, justice, and economic prosperity for all Nigerians.

“The time has come to move forward.”

In his conclusion, Dr Hashim expressed his sincere appreciation for the support and cooperation he received from the Chairman, members of the Ward Executive Committee and all stakeholders.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Sunday visited President Bola Tinubu n Lagos in what was described as a courtesy and strategic meeting. The visit highlighted the continued engagement between traditional rulers and the federal government on key national and regional matters.

The closed-door meeting brought together two influential South-West figures with longstanding political ties. Although details of their discussions were not made public, the engagement is believed to be part of ongoing consultations aimed at strengthening cooperation and addressing pressing issues affecting their regions.

Oba Ladoja, who became the 44th Olubadan in September 2025, remains a significant figure due to his dual role as a traditional ruler and former governor of Oyo State. His interaction with the President underscores the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in governance and policy dialogue.

Sources indicated that issues concerning Ibadanland and Oyo State, including development challenges and federal support, may have been discussed. Observers note that such meetings reinforce the role of traditional leaders in promoting unity, peace, and grassroots development across Nigeria.

A cleric in northern Nigeria has reportedly cancelled his daughter’s wedding just hours before the ceremony, citing political differences as the reason. The incident occurred in Dutse, Jigawa State, and involved a Muslim cleric identified as Malam Sani.

The wedding, initially scheduled for April 3, 2026, was called off after the cleric discovered that the groom was an outspoken supporter of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Reports indicate that the groom had been actively sharing pro-Tinubu content on social media, including posts supporting a possible 2027 re-election bid.

Despite admitting that the groom had committed no wrongdoing personally, the cleric insisted that his political stance was unacceptable. He reportedly viewed the groom’s support for Tinubu as a reflection of values he did not agree with, making him unsuitable as a son-in-law.

Efforts by community elders and family members to mediate and reverse the decision were unsuccessful, as the cleric remained firm in his stance. The sudden cancellation shocked both families, especially given the advanced stage of wedding preparations.

The incident has since generated mixed reactions, with many Nigerians debating whether political beliefs should influence personal relationships. While some condemned the action as intolerant, others defended the cleric’s right to decide based on his personal convictions.