The Oyo State Government has dismissed the panic-inducing rumours circulating about an alleged kidnapping incident at the College of Nursing campus in Kishi, describing the report as false and misleading.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, explained that the rumour originated from an unfounded alarm raised by some individuals, which created fear among students, lecturers and residents within the institution’s premises.
He assured parents, students and the general public that no kidnapping incident occurred, stressing that the government remains fully committed to maintaining security across the state.
According to him, the safety of students and staff in all educational institutions remains a top priority for the government.
The Commissioner therefore warned those peddling such malicious rumours to desist immediately, noting that spreading false information online is a serious cybercrime punishable under the law.
In a related statement, the Provost of College of Nursing Eleyele Ibadan, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, also described the report as misinformation capable of causing unnecessary panic among students and members of the public.
The management of the institution clarified that after a thorough internal review and verification with security personnel, it was confirmed that no kidnapping occurred on the campus. The authorities also noted that immediate steps had been taken by relevant security agencies to investigate the source of the rumour and strengthen surveillance and monitoring across the campus to prevent future false alarms.
Parents and guardians were therefore urged to remain calm and always verify information through the official communication channels of the state government and the college before reacting to unverified report.
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have foiled an attempt to smuggle large quantities of tramadol across Nigeria’s land border using a bizarre concealment method, the agency said in a statement.
According to the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, a 35-year-old businesswoman identified as Rabi Muhammad was intercepted on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Seme land border in Lagos while trying to cross into Cotonou, Benin Republic.
NDLEA officers became suspicious after noticing her unusually protruding stomach during routine checks. A subsequent search revealed that her so-called pregnancy was fake. Inside the artificial “baby bump,” she had strapped a pink calabash to her abdomen containing 3,200 tramadol capsules intended for sale across the border.
The agency described the concealment method as part of increasingly “bizarre” tactics used by drug traffickers to smuggle substances illicitly.
In the same operation, NDLEA officials at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport also intercepted a 41-year-old Ivorian man, Michael Gohouri, who was found to have ingested 82 wraps of cocaine weighing about 1.49 kilograms. He later excreted the wraps while under observation after a body scan detected the drugs.
The agency’s statement noted that Gohouri had flown from Lagos to Kano before boarding a flight to Milan, Italy, and was expected to be paid about 5,000 Euros upon delivery of the drugs.
This arrest adds to a series of recent NDLEA operations that have disrupted smuggling attempts and drug trafficking networks across Nigerian entry points.
The political atmosphere in Osun State has become heated as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke engage in a war of words over an alleged N13 billion payroll fraud linked to a staff audit conducted by Sally Tibbot Limited.
The controversy erupted following claims by the APC that the ongoing audit uncovered massive irregularities, including thousands of alleged ghost workers on the state payroll. The opposition party accused the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke of attempting to cover up what it described as “monumental fraud” under the guise of a verification exercise. The APC called for an independent probe by anti-corruption agencies, insisting that public funds must be accounted for transparently.
However, the Accord Party-led government dismissed the allegation as politically motivated propaganda. In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the government maintained that there was no N13 billion payroll scam. According to the statement, verification of the audit report showed that more than two-thirds of the individuals initially flagged as ghost workers were confirmed to be legitimate staff with proper identification and employment records.
The state government further argued that the payroll under scrutiny was inherited from the administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola. It stressed that Governor Adeleke initiated the audit precisely to address longstanding complaints of payroll padding and financial leakages. “If there is any fraud at all, it predates this administration,” the statement noted, adding that the governor remains open to investigation by anti-corruption agencies.
In response, the APC insisted that Governor Ademola Adeleke should allow a full forensic investigation rather than “deflect blame to the past administration.” The party maintained that the people of Osun deserve clarity on the true state of the payroll and public finances.
As both parties continue to trade accusations, civil society groups have called for calm and urged relevant authorities to conduct a transparent, independent investigation to put the matter to rest and restore public confidence in the state’s financial management.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) recorded a sweeping victory at Big Cele Settlement in Dutse Alhaji, Bwari Area Council, as PDP presidential aspirant Gbenga Hashim delivered his polling unit with a commanding margin in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election.
This comes despite claims that the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, influenced the withdrawal of the PDP candidate on the eve of the election.
Official results from the polling unit in the settlement show a dominant performance by the PDP in both the chairmanship and councillorship elections.
In Polling Unit 076, the PDP secured 74 votes in the chairmanship election, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled 2 votes and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) recorded 2 votes.
In the councillorship election, the PDP garnered 75 votes, with the APC scoring 4 votes and the ADC polling 3 votes. Other political parties recorded no votes.
The results represent a near total sweep for the PDP in the settlement, widely seen as a reflection of strong grassroots mobilisation and sustained community engagement.
Speaking after the declaration of results at the polling unit, Hashim thanked residents for their support and peaceful participation.
“This victory belongs to the people. It reflects consistent engagement, listening leadership, and our shared commitment to progress at the grassroots,” he said.
Observers described the margin as politically significant, noting that such dominance at the polling unit level demonstrates organisational strength and voter loyalty within the ward.
Voting at the unit was reported to be peaceful and orderly, with security personnel on the ground and electoral officials conducting the process in compliance with guidelines.
Party stakeholders said the outcome reinforces the PDP’s grassroots footing in parts of the FCT and signals renewed momentum in local political structures ahead of the 2027 elections.
The FCT Area Council elections, held across the six area councils, are regarded as an important test of party mobilisation capacity ahead of future electoral contests.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun on Thursday commissioned the Lantoro–Oke-Yidi–Isale Ake Junction Road in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, describing the project as part of a deliberate infrastructure drive aimed at deepening connectivity and economic growth across Ogun Central Senatorial District.
With the latest commissioning, the governor said his administration has now completed 29 roads in Ogun Central over the past six years, adding that 10 additional road projects currently under construction would be unveiled in the coming weeks — bringing the total to 39.
He announced that work would also commence immediately on the reconstruction of the Carwash–Moore Junction Road, also in Abeokuta South, reinforcing the strategic importance of the state capital as the administrative and political hub of Ogun State.
Abiodun explained that the roads executed in the district were selected through a participatory governance model involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, market associations and community stakeholders.
“In the last six years in Ogun Central, we have constructed 29 roads. They were selected through our participatory and inclusive governance approach. Our kabiyesi, including the Alake of Egbaland, Muslim faithful, Christian clergy, market men and women, among others, all sat together to determine which roads were most critical and should be prioritised,” he said.
He stressed that his administration remains focused on performance despite what he termed “sponsored propaganda” by critics, adding that more projects would be commissioned between now and July.
The governor described the Lantoro–Oke-Yidi–Isale Ake Road as a critical artery within the state capital, providing access to key institutions including Sacred Heart Hospital, the School of Nursing and the Muslim praying ground, while also serving as an alternative route linking major parts of the city.
According to him, the project reflects his administration’s commitment to equitable distribution of infrastructure and the delivery of lasting legacies through focused and diligent governance.
Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, noted that the road fulfilled campaign promises made to residents and would significantly ease transportation challenges while stimulating commercial activities in the area.
In his remarks, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo recalled his personal ties to the axis, stating that his school farm was once located along the road. He emphasized its importance in linking medical institutions and serving as a bypass within the capital.
Also speaking, the member representing Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, Hon. Afolabi Afuape, commended the governor for ensuring fairness in the distribution of projects across the state.
Residents welcomed the development, with Nurudeen Olaleye, Chairman of Alternative Medicine and a community member, revealing that the road had remained in deplorable condition for about 30 years. Rasak Adebayo Solebo, speaking on behalf of transport unions, said the rehabilitation would reduce vehicle maintenance costs and improve commuting conditions for operators and passengers alike.
Oluwagbotemi Olaniyi, the son of self-acclaimed All Progressives Congress (APC) member, Abimbola Adeniyi, alleged to have attempted to kill Police officers who were on lawful duty to arrest his mother following petitions filed against her by the Chief Executive Officer of YSJ Limited, Mrs Yemisi Joluwe has been arrested.
Joluwe had filed petition against Abimbola Adeniyi for tarnishing her reputation such as engaging in criminal fraud and extra-marital affairs with the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji.
When the Police officers tracked Abimbola to her house, it was discovered that she wasn’t the one posting all the stories she put on social media. She, most time, uses her son’s phones and computer. She write and send to her son to post on social media, especially on facebook.
The police tracked the IP address of Abimbola yesterday morning. Lo and behold, Abimbola’s 21year old Son Olaniyi Oluwagbotemi was caught red-handed in the act. The phone and computer being used for cyberbully were seized.
But an unfortunate incidence happened before the son could be arrested. When the Police attempted to gain entrance and the son refused to open, the officers, empowered to break in, broke the door. As the officers wanted to get in, the boy hit the head and body of the leading officer with wood, causing loss of consciousness. The officer is currently under intensive care unit at an undisclosed hospital in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital.
Abimbola Adeniyi has defamed and cyberbullied too many people to an extent that she doesn’t know whom she offended. She has been accusing Senate Spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu of masterminding Police’s visit to her house.
Governor has taken a swipe at the Osun State chapter of the (APC), accusing the opposition party of hiding under the “progressive” label and the revered name of to mislead the people of the state. The governor declared that his administration, not the APC, represents the true ideals and legacy of the late sage.
Speaking at a public event in Osogbo, Governor Adeleke described the APC’s claim to Awolowo’s ideology as deceptive, insisting that nothing about the party’s performance in Osun should be associated with the late nationalist. He alleged that years of APC leadership in the state were marked by policies that failed to prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens, contrary to the pro-people philosophy widely attributed to Awolowo.
Adeleke maintained that authentic progressive governance is defined by tangible improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare. According to him, since assuming office in November 2022, his administration has focused on clearing salary arrears, rehabilitating public schools and health facilities, and investing in grassroots development. He stressed that these actions reflect the people-centered governance model championed by Awolowo.
The governor further urged residents of Osun State to critically assess political claims and judge leaders by their performance rather than slogans. Reaffirming his commitment to transparency and inclusive development, Adeleke stated that his government remains dedicated to delivering dividends of democracy to all communities across the state, adding that the true test of progressivism lies in measurable impact on the lives of the people.
Gunmen have killed Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun, the traditional ruler of Agamo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, in a violent attack that has thrown the community into mourning. The attackers reportedly stormed the monarch’s palace on Wednesday night.
According to sources, the armed men forcefully took the traditional ruler away from his residence in what was believed to be a kidnapping attempt. However, the situation turned deadly during the operation, and the monarch was later found lifeless.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives were alerted shortly after the attack. Police authorities disclosed that armed men invaded the palace, abducted the monarch, and fled before his body was discovered.
Security agencies, including local vigilantes and Amotekun operatives, have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. The police assured residents that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible, while community members expressed concern over the growing insecurity in the area.
Hoodlums on Tuesday disrupted a stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress in Akure, causing chaos and injuries among party leaders. The meeting, held at the party’s state secretariat, was reportedly convened to strategize ahead of upcoming ward congresses when the attackers stormed the venue.
During the disruption, the Ondo State Chairman of the party, Ade Adetimehin, was allegedly assaulted alongside other top officials present. Eyewitnesses said the hoodlums arrived suddenly, wielding dangerous weapons, forcing members to flee while several sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Adetimehin claimed the attackers targeted the meeting deliberately to halt preparations for the congresses. He alleged that personal belongings were stolen in the process and that some party leaders were taken to hospital for treatment following the violence.
Reacting to the incident, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, denied any involvement, describing the attackers as miscreants. The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the disturbance and said investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Like a proverbial star rising in broad daylight begging for divination, so is the recent development and attendant circumstances surrounding the crowning of fourteen kings in Oyo town. This development deserves honest appraisal devoid of sentiment, in order to properly assess how this political game plan affects Oyo and its people, with or without “Ahoros,” both at home and abroad.
No doubt, the pride of the average Oyo indigene lies in the enduring legacy of a proven traditional epicentre, with the revered throne of the Alaafin of Oyo as the only imperial majesty and political head of the Yoruba race. The administrative prowess of the king and the Oyomesi in council has no equal among our people.
Though some argue that our empire fell, we rose again to enviable greatness. Oyo is Oyo, let us put an end to divisive tendencies. Awenibon and Oja, who founded their “Agos” or “Ahoros” at Aawe and Oyo Atiba respectively, were sons of Oyo on hunting expeditions in search of new settlements for all. The agreement between Oja and Atiba was not by coercion but by concession. Only Atiba Latunbosun Atobatele (Orunnmogege, Ajotamomi, Sentele Ayi Bi Egbo Tipetipe) possessed the royal blood to rebirth and lead the new Oyo, and his bloodline subsists till today. Oja and Atiba were in-laws, a testament to the cordial relationship between them.
No matter how long a rope may be, it must have a source—Oyo Ile was that source. For nearly two hundred years, we have lived together in our new home in peace and harmony as one people destined by God. Like every other town, we have faced challenges, yet we remain Oyo, proud and united.
One of the unique attributes of Oyo is that it derives its political strength from the throne of the Alaafin of Oyo. The power is inherent in the title of the king (Iku Baba Yeye) and revolves around the throne. Any political missile targeted at Oyo kingship is a calculated attempt to deprive Oyo of its essence and to strip it of the influence and benefits meant for its people.
There is no gainsaying that the position of the Alaafin is politically strategic and relevant. No Oyo son or daughter has ascended to the heights of political prominence without the influence of the throne. It is on record that the only female senator from Oyo rode on the “Omo mi, Abuja ya” sentiment, while a returning representative at the Green Chamber leveraged royal advantage. Even politicians from outside Oyo come cap in hand, prostrating before Alase Ekejii Orisa to garner royal blessings and favour.
The agenda appears to transcend merely making Baales and Alahoros wear beaded crowns. Rather, it suggests a premeditated plan to further polarize us, creating dissenting voices on issues of common interest.
Call it an emerging new order or a paradigm shift from the old. But do you foresee any formidable political bloc with far-reaching influence that would bring greater gains to Oyo and its people emerging from these new hamlets? Beyond the beaded crowns, do you foresee any of the new enclave heads championing a collective agenda in Oyo’s name? Instead, they risk being likened to pawns in a larger political chess game.
As a people desirous of the good of our land, embracing this political bait under the guise of a paradigm shift in power may only cloud our focus and lead us nowhere. Modern cities and societies grow into conglomerates through unification of entities—not through retrogressive fragmentation into hamlets under the pretext of development.
The crowning was not done in good faith. Rather, it appears to be a calculated move targeting the nucleus of our political strength and rallying point, so that the centre may no longer hold.
Through such implosion, the enemies of Oyo could once again ride on our disunity. It risks becoming another symphony of destruction, capable of inflicting more damage on our heritage than the early fall of our empire.
Having the kingship of the Alaafin ruffled, his powers diminished, and his influence weakened would be a major catastrophe for Oyo people, Oyo town, and Oyo heritage. It would be a ripple capable of igniting unrest and distracting us from the vision of a progressive Oyo.
May Oyo recover from this blow and continue to wax stronger.
