Category: Featured

Wale Ajani, popularly known as OSHAPRAPRA, has declared that his ambition to represent Òyó Central Senatorial District in the Senate under the Accord Party is a genuine call to serve the people and redefine representation in the district.

Ajani, a young professional and dynamic emerging leader with leadership experience at both national and sub-national levels, said his decision to contest is driven by the urgent need to change the status quo and provide the people of Òyó Central with purposeful, inclusive, and result-oriented representation.

According to him, “public office should not be treated as a title or a personal privilege, but as a responsibility to serve the people faithfully and deliver meaningful impact”. He stressed that his aspiration is rooted in service, competence, and a strong desire to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and respected at the national level.

Ajani noted that he is not a novice in leadership and is fully prepared to hit the ground running immediately after the inauguration of the National Assembly. He explained that his experience in various leadership capacities has equipped him with the exposure, understanding, and readiness required to provide effective representation for the district.

He further stated that his movement is for both the young and the old, describing it as a collective mission to build a better future for all residents of Òyó Central. He said the youth need opportunities, empowerment, and hope, while the older generation deserves responsible leadership, respect, and sustainable development.

Ajani emphasized that his campaign is founded on the principle that every part of Òyó Central matters and that no local government should be neglected or undermined. He listed the 11 local governments in the senatorial district as Ona Ara, Egbeda, Lagelu, Akinyele, Òyó West, Òyó East, Afijio, Atiba, Surulere, Oriire, and Ogo-Oluwa, insisting that each of them deserves fair attention, balanced development, and effective representation.

“This is not business as usual,” Ajani said. “Our people deserve a new kind of leadership that is accessible, accountable, visible, and committed to real progress. My ambition is a call to serve, and I am stepping forward because I believe Òyó Central deserves better.”

He added that the district would feel the impact of sending the right person to the Senate, promising to offer strong representation that will speak boldly for the people and pursue policies and opportunities that improve lives across the district.

Ajani maintained that his candidacy represents a departure from old politics and an opportunity for the people of Òyó Central to embrace a fresh, credible, and people-centered alternative.

He called on residents across the district to join his movement and support a vision built on service, inclusion, and meaningful development.

The Osun State governorship candidate of the APC, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, on Sunday led a delegation of party leaders and members in Osogbo Local Government on a condolence visit to residents affected by a recent rainstorm that left several homes damaged and casualties recorded.

During the visit, the team sympathised with victims across affected communities in Osogbo, expressing solidarity over the destruction caused by the storm.

The delegation also visited patients receiving treatment at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, where they offered support and encouragement.

It was gathered that medical bills of some of the affected victims were also attended to during the visit.

Among those in the entourage were Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, Otunba Lai Oyeduntan, Hon. Adelakun Adeoye, Hon. Akintunde Adegboye, Hon. Saheed Onibonkuta, and other party stakeholders.

The deepening crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a more troubling turn, as optimistic presidential aspirant and founding member, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, is now weighing the option of exiting the party amid the collapse of reconciliation efforts and growing fear of opposition capture.

What began as an internal leadership dispute has evolved into a full blown structural breakdown, with entrenched factions and competing interests rendering the party increasingly ineffective as a national opposition platform.

More concerning are growing indications that elements within the PDP may have aligned with the political establishment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, raising fears that the party is being systematically weakened from within.

For many observers, this has fueled speculation that the PDP risks losing its identity as an opposition force, with some even warning of a drift toward tacit support for the ruling order ahead of the 2027 elections.

For Dr. Hashim, the implications are clear.

Remaining within a fractured and potentially compromised structure could undermine both his presidential ambition and his long standing commitment to democratic plurality.

His ongoing consultations across party lines suggest a deliberate effort to build or align with a broader coalition capable of resisting the emergence of a one party dominant system in Nigeria.

This moment may well represent a turning point, not just for Hashim, but for the future of opposition politics in Nigeria. If key actors begin to exit or disengage from the PDP, the party could face a rapid decline in relevance, paving the way for a new political alignment to emerge.

At stake is more than partisan advantage. The weakening of viable opposition structures raises fundamental questions about the health of Nigeria’s democracy. Without a strong and independent opposition, the risk of democratic erosion becomes increasingly real.

As 2027 approaches, the choices made by actors like Hashim will help determine whether Nigeria sustains a competitive political system or slides into a de facto one party state.

The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has arrested five suspected members of the notorious Eiye Confraternity following a raid on a clandestine gathering in Akungba-Akoko.

According to the Ondo State Police Command, the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence indicating that members of the cult group had converged at a location within the community for undisclosed activities. Acting swiftly, security operatives stormed the venue and apprehended five suspects, while others reportedly fled the scene upon sighting the police.

Police sources disclosed that items linked to cult activities were recovered during the raid, although details of the exhibits were not immediately made public. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation as investigations continue to uncover the extent of their operations and possible links to other criminal activities in the state.

The Command reiterated its commitment to ridding Ondo State of cultism and other forms of criminality, warning that no individual or group involved in unlawful associations would be spared. Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies to aid proactive policing.

Akungba-Akoko, a university town, has in recent times witnessed concerns over cult-related activities, prompting renewed security measures by law enforcement authorities.

The Police Command assured the public that those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing suspects connected to the incident.

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.