Oduduwa News

There was tension at the Moniya Train Station in Ibadan on Wednesday morning following allegations that security personnel attached to the Federal Railway Corporation physically assaulted a lecturer from the University of Ibadan.

According to reports by Oduduwa News, the incident occurred in the early hours of the day when the lecturer, identified as Dr. Abdulsam of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, accompanied his sister to the train station for her scheduled trip to Lagos. He reportedly drove her in his private vehicle to the station but was said to have encountered hostility from security personnel over issues relating to the mode of payment for the passenger.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that what began as a disagreement over payment procedures soon escalated into a heated exchange. Sources alleged that one of the security operatives verbally assaulted the lecturer, hurling insults at him despite his reportedly calm and civil disposition during the conversation.

As efforts were being made to de-escalate the situation, it was further alleged that another security officer, accompanied by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the station, intervened physically. In the process, the lecturer was reportedly kicked to the ground, sustaining bruises to his leg.

Attempts to reach the Train Station Manager for comments were unsuccessful, as calls placed to the official lines were not answered at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Police Command has reportedly commenced an investigation into the incident to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the altercation and determine appropriate action.

The development has sparked reactions among residents and members of the academic community, with many calling for a thorough probe and accountability where necessary.

President has appointed renowned fiscal policy expert, Taiwo Oyedele, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Finance, in a move widely interpreted as a strategic push to consolidate ongoing tax and revenue reforms. The appointment was announced in a statement issued by the Presidency, highlighting Oyedele’s extensive experience in taxation, fiscal policy design, and public finance management.

Oyedele, who previously served as Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, played a central role in drafting key recommendations aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s tax system. Under his leadership, the committee proposed measures to simplify tax administration, expand the tax base, reduce multiple taxation, and improve compliance while protecting low-income earners and small businesses. His elevation to ministerial rank is expected to accelerate the implementation of these reforms.

Before his government role, Oyedele was a leading tax partner at PwC Nigeria and Head of Tax for Africa, where he advised governments and multinational corporations on fiscal strategy, tax structuring, and economic policy. His appointment is seen by analysts as a signal of policy continuity, particularly at a time when Nigeria is navigating revenue constraints, exchange rate adjustments, and subsidy reforms.

In his reaction, Oyedele expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work collaboratively with stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal stability, improve revenue generation, and create a more investment-friendly environment. He emphasized the need for a fair, transparent, and growth-oriented tax system that supports economic expansion while easing the burden on vulnerable citizens.

Economic observers note that the new minister faces immediate challenges, including boosting non-oil revenue, managing public debt sustainability, stabilizing the naira, and supporting economic recovery amid global uncertainties. However, many believe his technocratic background and reform-driven approach could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s fiscal governance.

The appointment has been welcomed by industry groups, financial analysts, and development partners, who see it as a strong indication that the administration intends to prioritize structural reforms in public finance management.

Further details regarding his swearing-in and policy roadmap are expected to be released in the coming days.

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The ancient town of Ikire in Ikire has been thrown into mourning following the passing of its revered monarch, the Akire of Ikire, His Royal Majesty Oba Olatunde Falabi.

The announcement of the monarch’s transition was made public today through one of Ikire’s prominent Facebook community platforms, confirming that the respected traditional ruler has “joined his ancestors,” a customary expression signifying the passing of a king in Yoruba tradition.

Oba Olatunde Falabi, who served as the Akire of Ikire, was widely regarded as a custodian of culture, tradition, and unity within the ancient town. During his reign, he played a significant role in fostering peace, community development, and the preservation of the rich cultural heritage of Ikire, a historic town in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State.

News of his demise has begun to circulate across the community and beyond, with residents, indigenes at home and in the diaspora, and well-wishers expressing shock and sadness over the loss.

As is customary with the passing of a traditional ruler, formal traditional rites and official statements from the palace and Osun State authorities are expected in due course.

Further details surrounding the circumstances of his passing and burial arrangements are yet to be officially released.

The late monarch’s transition marks the end of an era for the people of Ikire, as the community prepares to honor his legacy and begin the traditional processes that will eventually lead to the selection of a new Akire.

A massive joint security operation has been carried out in , targeting the Ikole–Irele axis following rising concerns over bandit activities in the area. The coordinated sweep involved multiple security agencies working together to comb forests and rural corridors believed to serve as hideouts for criminal elements. The operation follows repeated complaints from residents about attacks, kidnappings, and threats to farming communities.

The joint task force comprised personnel from the Police and alongside local forest guards. Security operatives were seen advancing into dense forest areas, dismantling suspected camps, and blocking escape routes allegedly used by bandits operating within the region.

The Ikole–Irele axis, largely rural with expansive forest cover, has recently experienced heightened insecurity, with reports of armed groups disrupting communities and instilling fear among residents. Farmers and traders have been particularly affected, as movement along key routes became risky due to repeated incidents attributed to bandit activity.

Although videos and reports of the operation have circulated widely online, there has yet to be a detailed official statement outlining arrests or recoveries.

However, many residents have welcomed the sweep, expressing hope that the intensified security presence will restore peace and stability across the affected communities.

The Presidency has dismissed viral reports alleging that kitchen staff at the Presidential Villa were arrested for attempting to poison President , describing the claim as false and misleading.

The rumour, which circulated widely on social media, alleged that a member of the kitchen staff at Aso Rock had been detained over an alleged plot involving the president’s food. The claim sparked reactions and concern online.

Responding to the allegation, , Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, refuted the report in a brief post on his X account, stating categorically that no such incident occurred.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the fake report and rely only on verified official sources for information, warning against the spread of unconfirmed stories capable of causing unnecessary panic.

The police boss conducted what the command described as a comprehensive security assessment of religious facilities across the state on March 1, 2026, as part of efforts to bolster security and enhance intelligence gathering.

The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on behalf of the command.

Centres visited by the CP included NASFAT Central Mosque, Akure; St. Stephen Anglican Church, Ipele; St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ijebu-Owo; Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Owo; Ansarudeen Central Mosque, Owo; Celestial Church of Christ, Uso; NASFAT Mosque, Owo; and Anglican Methodist Church, Owo, among others.

The exercise, according to the command, was aimed at assessing the security status of worship centres and ensuring compliance with the state government’s directive mandating the installation of CCTV cameras in religious and other public spaces.

During the visits, Lawal charged religious leaders to remain vigilant and put in place adequate security measures, including proper screening of congregants at entry points and the installation of functional CCTV cameras to aid monitoring and intelligence gathering within their premises.

He also urged residents of the state to promptly provide actionable and credible information to the police, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a collective responsibility.

The CP further directed officers deployed to worship centres to remain steadfast, proactive and professional in the discharge of their lawful duties at all times.

The Ondo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents and worshippers across the state.

Members of the public were advised to contact the command through 0906 058 8958, X (@OndoPoliceNg), Instagram (Ondopolicecommand), Facebook (Ondo State Police Command) or via email at Ondopolice@gmail.com for inquiries.

The Ogun State Government has approved the award of a contract for the construction of a complex to house the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal.

The approval was granted at the State Executive Council meeting held today. The contract, valued at ₦6,118,098,154.70, provides for the development of the court complex on a 2.6-hectare parcel of land adjoining the existing State Judiciary Complex in Olipakala Village via Kobape area of Abeokuta, within the Judiciary Cluster along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway.

This milestone represents a significant step in the State Government’s sustained efforts to deepen access to justice and bring appellate adjudication closer to the people of Ogun State. A review by the Ministry of Justice showed that a clear majority of appeals currently heard by the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal emanate from Ogun State. The absence of a division within the state has, over the years, increased the financial burden on litigants and legal practitioners and, in some instances, contributed to delays in the resolution of appeals.

The State Government has consistently demonstrated readiness for the take-off of the Abeokuta Division. In preparation, six duplexes were constructed on 4,359 square metres of land in Ibara Housing GRA to serve as official residences for justices of the division. In addition, twenty bungalows at the Prince Court Estate, Kobape, have been set aside for support staff.

In 2025, the State received approval from the President of the Court of Appeal for the Abeokuta Division to commence operations. This followed the special sitting of the court in Abeokuta in May 2024, during which about ten panels sat in the state and disposed of over 150 appeals within three days.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the new Court of Appeal complex will take place in the coming days, while construction is expected to be completed within twelve months.

The Ogun State Ministry of Justice remains committed to justice sector reforms that democratise access to justice, strengthen institutions, and ensure efficient delivery of judicial services in the State.

Amupitan can’t deliver credible poll in 2027

A former presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, to resign over the recently announced timetable for the 2027 general elections.

Addressing journalists at a press conference in Abuja, Hashim rejected the adjusted schedule for party primaries released by INEC on Thursday, February 26, 2026, describing it as an overreach and alleging that it was structured to favour the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to him, INEC does not have the authority to dictate when political parties should conduct their primaries.

“It’s not the business of INEC to dictate to parties when they should conduct nominations of candidates for elections,” Hashim said.

“This shows that Amupitan cannot be trusted. It’s either he resigns or Nigerians will embark on mass action to force him out. He should not be allowed to stay a day longer in that office.”

He alleged that moving the primaries to an earlier date was a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition parties currently dealing with internal disputes.

“He’s deliberately working to favour the APC, having destabilised other political parties who are trying to sort out themselves in court. That is disingenuous and wrong,” he said.

Hashim further argued that for the 2027 elections to be free and fair, the electoral commission must be reconstituted, insisting that public confidence in the commission’s leadership is critical.

“For us to have an acceptable, free and fair election in 2027, INEC has to be reconstituted. Rushing out an ill thought out timetable after what we consider a poor performance in the Abuja Area Council election shows that the chairman cannot be entrusted with the 2027 general election.”

He warned against conducting elections whose outcomes, in his view, could become predictable, describing such a scenario as unjust to taxpayers.

The former presidential aspirant maintained that primaries are internal affairs of political parties, provided they comply with the Electoral Act’s nomination deadlines.

“INEC is not a headmaster that can impose what it wants on political parties. As long as parties comply with the Electoral Act regarding submission timelines, they have the right to determine when to hold their primaries,” he stated.

Hashim also referenced historical precedents in Nigeria’s political history, warning against any action that could undermine democratic continuity after 27 years of uninterrupted civil rule.

The faction of the (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, , has dismissed the recent judgment delivered by the concerning the party’s convention, describing it as inconsequential and lacking binding effect.

In a statement issued on Thursday, representatives of the Wike-backed group argued that the court ruling does not invalidate the processes leading to the party’s convention nor does it affect decisions already taken by the party’s recognized leadership structures.

The faction maintained that internal party matters, including the conduct of conventions and congresses, remain within the jurisdiction of the party’s constitution and established organs. According to the group, any attempt to rely on the judgment to disrupt preparations or outcomes of the convention would amount to a misinterpretation of both the law and the PDP’s internal guidelines.

“The judgment in question does not in any way nullify the convention or the authority of the party’s legitimate organs,” the statement read. “It is merely being sensationalized by those seeking political advantage.”

The controversy stems from a suit filed by aggrieved party members challenging aspects of the convention process. The Oyo State High Court had reportedly issued orders affecting certain arrangements linked to the exercise, a development that deepened existing divisions within the PDP.

However, the Wike-aligned camp insisted that the ruling neither restrains the national leadership nor overrides decisions of higher courts on party administration. They further emphasized that the party remains committed to upholding due process and democratic principles.

Party stakeholders from the opposing bloc have yet to formally respond to the latest remarks, though insiders say consultations are ongoing on the next line of action.

The internal dispute underscores lingering tensions within the PDP, as competing interests continue to jostle for control of party structures ahead of future electoral contests.

Observers say the unfolding legal and political drama could shape the party’s cohesion and strategic positioning in the coming months.