Oduduwa News

It is no longer news that five members of the Oyo State House of Assembly have jointly sponsored a controversial and dishonourable bill titled:
OYO STATE COUNCIL OF OBAS AND CHIEFS (FURTHER AMENDMENT, 2025),
a bill that seeks to undermine the historical and spiritual authority of the Alaafin of Oyo by removing him as the Permanent Chairman of the Council of Obas in Oyo State.

The sponsors of this anti-heritage bill are:
• Mr. Ogundoyin from Eruwa
• Mr. Onaolapo from Ogbomoso South
• Mr. Olajide from Lagelu
• Mr. Adeola from Iseyin/Itesiwaju
• Mr. Adebayo from Ibadan North Constituency II

We must boldly say that this bill is a betrayal of tradition, a disgraceful disregard for our ancestral values, and an insult to the collective identity of the Yoruba people. These “honourables” either out of ignorance, political manipulation, or youthful exuberance have chosen to dance on the graves of the warriors, kings, and sages who made the Alaafin stool what it is today.

If i may ask, do these young legislators truly understand the historical depth and cultural relevance of the Alaafin’s position? Do they know that the Oyo Empire once extended beyond the borders of modern Nigeria, and that the Alaafin was recognized even by colonial powers as the head of the Yoruba nation? Do they understand that the current structure of traditional councils in Oyo State was informed by centuries of organized leadership, not recent political appointments?

It is painfully obvious that age and historical disconnect may have deprived these lawmakers of proper understanding. But ignorance should never be an excuse for legislative recklessness. Rather than protect our traditions, they have attempted to erase them with the stroke of a pen. This is unacceptable.

permanent chairmanship of the Oyo State Council of Obas rightfully belongs to the Alaafin not because of favoritism, but because of historical precedence, cultural seniority, and spiritual mandate. This is not a title to be rotated like political offices; it is a sacred role backed by centuries of Yoruba civilisation.

To the general public, especially the proud sons and daughters of Oyo State at home and abroad, take note of these names and constituencies. When next they come knocking for your votes, remember that they once attempted to desecrate the legacy of your ancestors. Do not be silent. Tradition dies when the people become indifferent.

To the five sponsors of this bill, I urge you to retrace your steps. There is still time to withdraw this divisive proposal and apologise to the people whose history you have sought to rewrite. Posterity will not forgive those who trade heritage for political favour.

Let us remember, this is not about the individual occupying the throne, but the institution of the Alaafin. Kings come and go, but institutions must endure. The Alaafin remains our only Chairman and that shall not change.

Dolapo Awotunde
Writes from the Ancient City of Oyo

About 30 percent of Lagos State civil servants sponsored for training abroad have failed to return after completing their programs, according to the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo.

He revealed this on Wednesday during the 2025 ministerial briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja, marking Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second year in office.

Ayantayo explained that the state government has invested heavily in foreign training programs to boost staff capacity, with approximately 8,000 civil servants granted study leave over the past three years. However, only 70 percent of them returned to service, while 30 percent absconded.

He also disclosed that between May 2022 and December 2024, 23,420 staff participated in 185 different training sessions focused on skill development, leadership, and regulatory compliance. In addition to those who absconded, he noted that many workers have left for better job opportunities abroad.

Despite these setbacks, Ayantayo highlighted a major achievement of the ministry — the increase of the minimum wage from N35,000 to N85,000, as approved by Governor Sanwo-Olu.

The Oyo State Government has approved the sum of ₦4.5 billion as financial support to the survivors and victims of the Bodija explosion which occurred on January 16, 2024.

This decision was taken at the ongoing Executive Council meeting at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s office.

According to the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, this is apart from the over ₦200 million that the State Government had expended on accommodation, feeding, hospital and security bills following the tragic incident.

Also the Council approved the recommendation of the 10 man committee to revoke the Title of two properties off Adeyi avenue, scene of the explosion, in the overall interest of the public and that the Government should build a monument on the location of the revoked land in memory of victims of the tragedy.

The Council frowned at the spate of disinformation, half-truths and mischievous lies being peddled by persons purportedly representing the Residents on the role which the State Government has played in the Bodija explosion saga.

Council said such insinuations are unfair and mischievous and the Government will not be discouraged in taking its time to do what is just for her citizens.

The Commissioner said some beneficiaries are engaged in family disputes which required painstaking intervention of the 10 man committee.

The government will also return to the owners, other properties adjoining ground zero to rebuild their homes at the advice of Government paid Structural Engineers.

According to the Commissioner, Government will, through the Ministry of Justice, ensure effective prosecution of the suspects so far arraigned in Court, while efforts are being intensified to apprehend other suspects linked to the case but at large.

During the Executive session, the Governor advised the Citizens to discountenance any rumour concerning the current cabinet reshufflement.

The Governor said he took the decision to discourage Ministerial complacency and to assure the people that he plans to end the tenure of his administration in 2027 with the same zeal with which he started in 2019.

According to the Commissioner for Information, the Governor said he does not plan to drop any member of his Cabinet except anyone who is found to be distracted.

He said the decision to reshuffle was done to inject fresh efficiency into the system going forward.

Tragedy struck in Odogunyan area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, as a 19-year-old girl, Opesusi Faith Timilehin, reportedly took own life over a low score in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) result.

Faith, a second-time candidate, was said to have been deeply disappointed after scoring 190, a score reportedly lower than her previous performance in the 2024 UTME.

Family and friends said she had high expectations and was devastated by the outcome.

“She scored more than this in her previous JAMB. She was confident this time would be even better. When she saw 190, she couldn’t believe it,” said a close friend on the condition of anonymity.

It was gathered that the teenager took a poisonous substance, commonly referred to as “push out”. She was rushed to Kolak Hospital in Odogunyan, where she was confirmed dead on arrival.

In a twist of fate, an admission offer was reportedly sent to her Gmail account shortly after her death.

“The shocking revelation is that she was given an admission message via her Gmail yesterday, immediately after she was confirmed dead at Kolak Hospital, Odogunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos,” the source said.

The incident has added to growing concerns surrounding this year’s UTME results, as many candidates across the country have raised petitions and complaints to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) over alleged irregularities.

Several candidates have taken to social media to protest discrepancies in their scores, with some alleging their results were altered or withheld without clear reasons. Others cited technical glitches during the examination.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a motion to honor and celebrate veteran Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onile Ola, for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Yoruba culture through theatre.

The Oyo State House of Assembly made the call today, Wednesday at its Yoruba plenary session while deliberating on a motion presented in by the Majority Leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin (Ogbomoso South).

The Motion urged the State Government to recognize and honor the Octogenarian Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, Eda Onile-Ola, who is among the oldest in the industry.

It further called on the State Government to honor other veteran actors who have made impacts in the theatre industry.

While highlighting Eda Onile-Ola’s remarkable career and his role in showcasing Yoruba culture and values through his performances, the House noted that Chief Paimo’s dedication to the arts has helped to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

Hon. Adedoyin in the Motion commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for its commitment to sustaining and promoting Yoruba culture, citing various cultural initiatives spearheaded by the Government.

He noted that while efforts have been made in festivals and tourism development, traditional Yoruba theatre—once a stronghold of cultural storytelling—is gradually fading.

The Motion also urged the State Government to support the production of traditional Yoruba plays that promote wisdom and good character, and ensure their integration into cultural tourism.

It equally plans to hold a special plenary in honour of the theatre icon, and called for the funding of documentaries and exhibitions showcasing Chief Lere Paimo’s work.

“Yoruba culture is rich, and theatre is one of our strongest mediums to educate, entertain, and preserve our traditions. It is essential to recognize and support those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring these values do not disappear, one of thm is Chief Lere Paimo popularly called Eda Onile-Ola.” Hon. Adedoyin stated.

He further lamented that modern film productions have lost touch with Yoruba ethics, often promoting foreign influences instead of showcasing the moral values embedded in indigenous Yoruba storytelling.

Hon. Adedoyin emphasized the importance of preserving theatre as a medium for educating younger generations on Yoruba values, saying, “Our ancestors taught us through storytelling, and legends like Chief Lere Paimo have carried this torch. We must support them and ensure that Yoruba cultural expressions continue to thrive.”

The Oyo State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, acknowledged the contributions of Yoruba actors and assured that the Assembly would take necessary steps to ensure the implementation of the resolutions contained in the motion.

The Ogun State media community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of veteran broadcast journalist, Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, a staff member of Ogun State Television (OGTV), Abeokuta.

Mrs. Agbakaizu reportedly slumped on Monday while preparing for her afternoon shift at the state-owned television station. Despite swift efforts to save her life, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta.

Her death was confirmed in a statement by the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Mr. Bunmi Adigun. Describing her as “a versatile journalist and passionate comrade,” Adigun noted that she was a former Vice Chairman of the OGTV Chapel and served as an ex-officio member of the NUJ Council until her passing.

“Her vibrant spirit and commitment to journalism will be sorely missed,” Adigun said, noting the void her death leaves in the journalism profession in Ogun State.

She was 52 years old and is survived by her two children, aged mother, colleagues, and numerous friends.

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter, also expressed deep sorrow over her death. In a statement by Chairperson Mrs. Sekinat Salam, the association described Mrs. Agbakaizu as a compassionate professional whose leadership and passion for journalism left a lasting impression.

“Ogun NAWOJ received the news with a rude shock. Her death came at a time when her experience and leadership were most needed,” the statement read. “Her love for people, her commitment to journalism, and her devotion to God will always be remembered.”

Tributes continue to pour in as colleagues and associates recall her warmth, professionalism, and selfless contributions to the media space in Ogun State.

As the media fraternity mourns, prayers are being offered for her family, with many describing her as “an amazon of the pen profession” whose legacy will not be forgotten.

The VOICE OF THE VOICELESS NIGERIAN in Abuja has called for the immediate suspension of Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), over allegations of N80 billion fraud. The group making the call believes that the SGF’s involvement in such a large-scale financial scandal undermines the current administration’s anti-corruption efforts.

In a statement signed by the National Secretary of he Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian, Omo Oba Adewole Oluwatosin, the group expressed disappointment that despite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigating the matter, no action has been taken against Senator Akume or his aide, Mr. Torhile Uchi, who was arrested and interrogated.

The statement noted that it is unacceptable for verifiable cases of corruption to be swept under the carpet, especially during an administration that has pledged to fight corruption. The group emphasized that Senator Akume’s suspension is necessary to allow for a thorough investigation into the allegations.

The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian pointed out that the EFCC had uncovered evidence of an N80 billion money laundering case, which cannot be ignored. The group demanded accountability and transparency in the investigation and prosecution of the case.

Comparing Senator Akume’s situation to that of former SGF Babachir Lawal, who was removed from office over a relatively minor offense, the group questioned why Akume has not been held accountable for his alleged actions.

The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian warned the EFCC to provide a public update on the case within seven days or face nationwide protests. The group emphasized that Nigerians are watching the case closely and expect the EFCC to demonstrate its commitment to fighting corruption.

The organization reaffirmed its support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration but cautioned that shielding corrupt officials would undermine the anti-corruption drive. The group urged the President to take decisive action against Senator Akume.

The Voice of the Voiceless Nigerian has given President Bola Tinubu a 7-day ultimatum to sack Senator Akume; otherwise, they will take to the streets to protest, joining others in demanding accountability and transparency from the government.

…..moves for consideration of Amendment to Oyo State Hospitality and Tourism Law 2020.

The Oyo State House of Assembly at its Plenary today urged the Executive Arm of Government to implement a standardised guest registration process that includes valid identification verification and the maintenance of up – to – date guest logs accessible to authorised personnel into hotels and guesthouses across the State.

This was part of resolves on a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Oluyole State constituency, Hon. Waheed Akintayo , Co- sponsored by Hon. Rasak Mabaje and Hon. Mrs. Olubisi Michael of Ido and Ogbomosho North State constituency, respectively.

Presenting the motion at the Plenary presided over by the Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi, the mover of the motion, revealed that hotels are increasingly being used by fraudsters, commonly known as “Yahoo Boys,” who conduct cybercrime and sextortion schemes within the establishment.

“Investigation has shown that some fraudsters deliberately reside in hotels for extended periods to operate undetected.”

“These criminals exploit the anonymity of hotels, where poor guest registration and monitoring system allow them to evade law enforcement.”

Hon. Akintayo noted that the significant number of hotels and guest houses in Ibadan and across Oyo State are not duly registered with the Government despite the rapid expansion of the hospitality sector.

He added that the lack of adequate registration makes it difficult for regulatory agencies to track establishment in operation, enforce security standards , and ensure compliance with necessary regulations.

“Mandatory registration and periodic renewal will enable the Government to monitor these businesses effectively and enforce security measures where needed.” The motion stated

The House has however directed its Standing Committee on Security and Strategies and its counterpart from Culture and Tourism to engage all relevant stakeholders including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Oyo State Hotels Owners Association and deliberate on the measures to put in place in curbing the menace of insecurity in Hotels and Guest Houses across the State.

The Ekiti State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has taken decisive action against a sachet water factory in the Ekute Area of Ado-Ekiti, shutting it down for violating health and safety regulations.

The factory, whose name has been withheld, was found to be using an unsafe water source, prompting the ministry to seal it off. This move underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.

The ministry’s swift action serves as a warning to other factories and businesses in the state to adhere to health and safety standards. The development highlights the importance of regular monitoring and enforcement of regulations to prevent health hazards.

The Ekiti State Government’s proactive stance is expected to boost confidence in the state’s regulatory framework and ensure a safer environment for residents.