The Ogun State Government has announced the successful rescue of all seven victims abducted in connection with the recent incident involving students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, while announcing the development, said the victims were rescued alive following a coordinated security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Armed Forces, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, vigilantes, local hunters and other security agencies.

According to the Governor, the state government activated a comprehensive security response immediately after receiving reports of the incident, mobilising personnel and operational resources to secure the affected areas and intensify the search for the abducted victims.

The operation was subsequently reinforced with aerial surveillance following a request by Governor Abiodun to the Inspector-General of Police for additional support to complement security personnel conducting operations on the ground.

Abiodun commended the security agencies and personnel involved in the operation for their courage, professionalism and effective collaboration, noting that the successful rescue demonstrated the importance of intelligence sharing and coordinated security operations.

While expressing gratitude to Almighty God for the safe rescue of the victims, the Governor disclosed that security operations were still ongoing to apprehend everyone connected with the criminal enterprise.

He warned kidnappers and other criminal elements that Ogun State would not provide a safe haven for their activities, stressing that perpetrators, collaborators, informants, logistics providers and sponsors would be pursued and brought to justice.

Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening intelligence gathering, surveillance, operational mobility and inter-agency collaboration as part of sustained efforts to protect lives and property across the state.

He assured residents, visitors and investors that the government would continue to provide necessary support to security agencies to maintain peace and ensure the safety of communities across Ogun State.

The Governor reiterated that the administration’s position on criminality remained unequivocal, declaring that Ogun State would remain hostile to criminal elements while providing a safe and secure environment for every law-abiding resident, visitor and investor.

…Insist Mabaje Remains Consensus Choice, Warn Against Actions Capable of Dividing Ido PDP/APM Structure Ahead of 2027

Stakeholders of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State have expressed strong displeasure over an alleged attempt by certain vested interests to alter the outcome of the party’s consensus arrangement and replace the name of Hon. Abdulrazak Mabaje, who was unanimously endorsed by stakeholders as the party’s chairmanship candidate for the forthcoming local government election.

The stakeholders, in a strongly worded position, described the alleged development as an unacceptable attempt to undermine the collective decision reached after extensive consultations among party leaders, delegates and other critical stakeholders in Ido Local Government.

According to the stakeholders, the consensus process was conducted in accordance with the wishes of the party’s local government structure, culminating in the emergence of Hon. Abdulrazak Mabaje as the preferred candidate. They said the decision was not that of an individual but the product of broad consultations and a collective resolution reached in the interest of the party and the local government.

They alleged that individuals with vested political interests hiding behind the veil of being Gov Makinde’s appointees, are attempting to manipulate the process by changing the name of the candidate already endorsed by the stakeholders. The stakeholders, however, insisted that such an alleged move would amount to disregarding the will of the people who participated in the consensus process.

The aggrieved stakeholders maintained that the decision reached by the Ido Local Government stakeholders must stand, warning that any attempt to impose a different candidate against the agreed consensus could generate unnecessary tension, distrust and division within the local government.

They appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently intervene and ensure that the collective decision of the stakeholders is respected. According to them, the Governor’s intervention is necessary not only to protect the integrity of the process but also to prevent a disagreement over the chairmanship ticket from degenerating into a wider political crisis in Ido.

The stakeholders stressed that what Ido Local Government needs at this critical period is unity, fairness and cohesion, rather than actions capable of creating factions and weakening the party’s grassroots structure.

They further warned that internal disagreements and perceived imposition could have consequences beyond the forthcoming local government election, particularly as political parties are already positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“We have followed the process and made our decision. The consensus was reached by the stakeholders of Ido Local Government, and that decision should be respected. Nobody should be allowed to manipulate the process or substitute the choice of the stakeholders for personal or political interests,” the stakeholders maintained.

They urged Governor Makinde to act swiftly and ensure that the issue is resolved amicably, stressing that respecting the consensus reached by the stakeholders would strengthen confidence, preserve unity and ensure that the party enters future elections as a united political family.

The stakeholders also appealed to all party leaders and aspirants to place the collective interest of Ido Local Government above personal ambitions, insisting that the ultimate objective should be to maintain a strong and united political structure capable of delivering victory in subsequent elections.

They reiterated their support for Hon. Abdulrazak Mabaje and called on the relevant party authorities to uphold the consensus decision, warning that “the will of the stakeholders must not be sacrificed on the altar of individual political interests.”

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has declared that Governor Ademola Adeleke’s endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election will not prevent him from losing the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.

Oyetola, who is a leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, maintained that Adeleke’s political fortunes should be judged by his performance in the state rather than his support for the President.

The former Osun governor’s remarks come amid heightened political activities ahead of the state’s governorship election, with the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) intensifying efforts to mobilise supporters across the state.

Adeleke had publicly expressed support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid, a position that has generated considerable political discussion in Osun and across the South-West. However, Oyetola suggested that the endorsement would not translate into electoral advantage for the incumbent governor at the state level.

The minister’s position reflects the increasingly competitive nature of the Osun political landscape as both major parties prepare for the governorship contest. The 2022 election saw Adeleke defeat Oyetola, with the PDP candidate securing 403,371 votes against Oyetola’s 375,027 votes, according to results announced by INEC.

With the next election approaching, political stakeholders are expected to intensify their campaigns, alliances and grassroots mobilisation as the parties seek to win the confidence of Osun voters.

Oyetola’s latest comment is therefore likely to further fuel the political contest between the APC and PDP, particularly given the history of competition between him and Governor Adeleke.

Hon. Dele Adeola, Member representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, has felicitated his colleague, Hon. Ridwan Gbadamosi, popularly known as Wale Canada, who represents Saki East and Atisbo State Constituency, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a goodwill message personally signed by him, Hon. Adeola described Wale Canada as a committed, visionary and resourceful legislator whose contributions have continued to strengthen the Oyo State House of Assembly and promote effective democratic governance.

He commended Gbadamosi for his exemplary leadership, dedication to his constituents and unwavering commitment to public service, noting that his collaborative spirit and proactive engagement on critical legislative matters have made him a valuable partner in the pursuit of impactful policymaking.

Adeola further praised his colleague for his people-oriented representation, stressing that Wale Canada’s interventions and legislative advocacy reflect a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of the people of Atisbo and Saki East.

He prayed for God to grant Hon. Gbadamosi continued wisdom, sound health, strength and guidance as he advances in his service to the people of Oyo State.

The lawmaker expressed optimism that the new chapter in Wale Canada’s life would usher in greater accomplishments, renewed strength and more opportunities to provide purposeful and transformative leadership.

Former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has endorsed the APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

Oyinlola made the declaration in Osogbo while addressing political stakeholders and supporters, saying his decision was based on the interest of Osun State and the need for a new direction. He, however, clarified that his faction remains members of the PDP and is not defecting to the APC.

The former governor urged Oyebamiji, if elected, to run an inclusive administration focused on good governance, economic development, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and youth empowerment.

The endorsement is considered politically significant given Oyinlola’s status as a former governor and prominent PDP figure. It comes days before the election, in which Oyebamiji is challenging incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke and other candidates for the Osun governorship.

Popular Ibadan-based broadcaster and Accord Party governorship candidate in Oyo State, Oriyomi Hamzat, has claimed that he was among those who encouraged Governor Seyi Makinde to enter the Oyo State governorship race.

Hamzat made the disclosure while addressing members of the Accord Party in Ibadan on Saturday, amid growing political differences between him and Makinde ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the broadcaster, he supported Makinde’s governorship ambition because he believed the former engineer would work for the people of Oyo State.

Hamzat said he should also be given credit for the achievements recorded by the Makinde administration, arguing that those who acknowledge the governor’s accomplishments should equally recognise the people who supported his emergence.

“Seyi Makinde has reformed Oyo. Hence, we are not following you. Who brought Seyi Makinde? I was the one. I was one of those that brought him and supported him as governor,” Hamzat said.

He questioned why his alleged role in supporting Makinde’s political emergence was being overlooked while critics focused on issues surrounding the administration.

“All those good things, why don’t you give me the credit? Why is it that it is the unpleasant side that people are using to attack me?” he asked.

Hamzat further argued that opposition politicians often acknowledge Makinde’s achievements when discussing his administration, but fail to recognise those who supported his emergence.

The broadcaster and Makinde were previously regarded as close political allies. However, their relationship has become strained as Hamzat has entered the 2027 governorship contest on the platform of the Accord Party.

Hamzat is now seeking to succeed Makinde, who is constitutionally ineligible to seek a third consecutive term as governor in 2027.

The development adds another dimension to the emerging political contest in Oyo State, with several political actors positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

As all attention shifts to Osun state for the governorship poll which comes up this Saturday, the All Progressives Congress APC in Oyo state has charged voters “to save their state from charlatans and comedians who have been in the saddle in close to four years with only the record of wastefulness, nepotism and brigandage to show”.

The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has fixed August 15, 2026 for the Osun state’s off circle in which the candidate of the APC, Dr. Bola Oyebamiji, is being touted as the favorite over the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking a re-election under the platform of the Accord.

In a statement issued at the weekend and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC cited the need for quality leadership, decent representation and equity in the distribution of resources among communities as major reasons power must change hands in Osun state this this time.

“Regrettably, Osun and Oyo states fell into the wrong hands in 2022 and 2023 respectively and the sad results of this development are evident in the key sectors of both states today. Osun state is worse hit because its residents and indigene have had to with the reality of having an incompetent leader at the helm of affairs. It is quite sad that a state which harbors a University with global reputation for excellence and Africa’s most beautiful campus is being governed by a mere dance freak.

“Today, Osun state people are divided in all spheres because they have a governor who does not know what to do keep his people together. Also, official corruption is the order of the day while distribution of appointments and infrastructure among the people and community is lopsided. Osun and Oyo states have governors who do not get on well with their brothers in the South West geopolitical zones due to party differences and inferiority complex.

“But fortunately enough, the good people of Osun state have been offered another opportunity to get right by electing a competent, intelligent and unifier as their new governor. Dr. Bola Oyebamiji of the APC is the ideal man for the job and he will not disappoint if elected as he is prepared to deliver on his electoral promises. Enough of sponsored violence, brigandage and crime surge in Osun state. APC government will restore peace, accountability in governance and accelerated development in Osun.” Oyo APC stated.

The death of Nollywood actress Temitope Osoba has taken a new turn following claims by her fiancé that the actress died at a police station in Ikorodu, Lagos, contrary to reports linking her death to cancer.

The fiancé reportedly disputed the circumstances surrounding the actress’ death, alleging that she passed away while at a police station in Ikorodu.

His claim has sparked questions about what transpired before the actress’ death and has placed the circumstances surrounding her final moments under fresh scrutiny.

Osoba, popularly known as Tope Osoba, had previously spoken publicly about her battle with breast cancer. In November 2024, colleagues including actress Foluke Daramola rallied financial support for her treatment after she underwent surgery and required further medical care.

In August 2025, Osoba said she had recovered from the illness and announced her return to acting. She also recounted how doctors had initially warned that her treatment could affect her ability to conceive, while explaining that subsequent tests showed the cancer had not spread and that she underwent another surgery to remove remaining tumour tissue.

By December 2025, reports described Osoba as a cancer survivor as she celebrated her 40th birthday and reflected on her experience with the disease.

The latest allegation by her fiancé therefore contradicts the narrative that her death was directly caused by cancer.

Details surrounding the reported incident at the Ikorodu police station, including why the actress was there, what happened before her death and whether the police have formally responded to the allegation, remain unclear from the information currently available.

The circumstances of her death may require further clarification from her family, fiancé, the police authorities and other persons with direct knowledge of the incident.

Until such clarification is provided, the claim that she died at a police station remains an allegation attributed to her fiancé.

Urge Voters to stand their Ground

Presidential candidate of the Accord Party, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of waging “a war against the people” of Osun State, in the countdown to the governorship election.

Olawepo-Hashim alleged that recent actions of the Federal Government crossed the line from politics into what he described as ‘punitive state oppression.’

In a strongly-worded statement he personally issued over the weekend, Hashim, who is also Co-Chairman of the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR), alleged that withholding of Osun state’s local government allocations, freezing of state government accounts and the provision of security protection for APC supporters allegedly involved in attacks on opposition members formed part of a coordinated attempt to undermine democracy and punish the people of Osun for political reasons.

While acknowledging reports that the restrictions placed on the state’s accounts by the EFCC had been lifted following the president’s directive, Hashim maintained that the measures should never have been imposed in the first place.

He described those actions as abuse of federal power; inconsistent with constitutional democracy.

Hashim said: This is not politics. It is the punitive conduct of a Federal colonial state treating the people of Osun as vassals.”

He further noted that democracy cannot survive where federal institutions are deployed as political weapons against elected state governments, insisting that the sovereignty of the people must never be subordinated to partisan interests.

Hashim also issued a stern warning to public officials whom he alleged participated in implementing the measures, saying they would bear personal responsibility for any unlawful actions, irrespective of how the political dispute ultimately ends.

“However this ends, all state officials involved in this political brigandage must note that they will be held individually accountable for their actions,” he declared.

The presidential candidate urged Nigerians and democratic institutions to resist what he described as the weaponisation of state power, maintaining that no democracy can flourish where constitutional powers are allegedly abused to intimidate political opponents and undermine the will of the electorate.

With the Osun State governorship election approaching, Hashim called on president Tinubu to ensure that every remaining obstacle to a free, peaceful and credible poll is removed.

“It is not too late to apply the brakes. President Tinubu should immediately instruct all security agencies and federal officials to remain neutral and allow the people of Osun to make their choices in an atmosphere devoid of intimidation. The world is watching,” he added.

Hashim concluded by urging the people of Osun to reject intimidation and participate peacefully in the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

“Stand your ground. Refuse to be cowed into submission. We are still a democracy and a Republic. Come out peacefully and exercise your constitutional right to vote,” he urged the electorate.

The Lagos State Government has arrested 27 suspected hoodlums for allegedly vandalising the newly constructed bridge linking Festac Town and Alakija and removing metals used to reinforce the structure.

The suspects were arrested during a joint midnight enforcement operation carried out by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force.

The operation followed the discovery that critical components of the newly constructed bridge had allegedly been vandalised, raising concerns over the safety and structural integrity of the infrastructure.

According to a statement shared on the X handle of the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the enforcement operation was conducted in line with the directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to rid the Lagos-Badagry Transnational Highway of environmental infractions, illegal motor parks, roadside trading and other unlawful activities.

The Commissioner said investigations showed that the suspects allegedly removed key structural materials from the bridge, including iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables and other supporting components.

“Investigations revealed that suspected hoodlums had deliberately vandalised critical structural components of the bridge by removing iron rods, steel reinforcements, cables, and other supporting materials essential to the integrity of the infrastructure,” Wahab said.

He described the alleged vandalism as a serious threat to public safety and the integrity of the bridge, warning that such acts could undermine government investments in critical infrastructure.

Following the discovery, security operatives launched a coordinated enforcement operation at the site, resulting in the arrest of 27 suspects.

The Lagos State Government said the suspects would be prosecuted in accordance with the extant laws of the state.

The government also reiterated its commitment to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring that individuals who engage in vandalism or other activities capable of endangering public safety are brought to justice.