Oduduwa News

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has called for a comprehensive investigation into comments made by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over an alleged intercepted phone conversation involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Onanuga described El-Rufai’s remarks as a “confession” and questioned the former governor’s alleged access to surveillance capabilities.

“El-Rufai confesses to wire-tapping Nigeria’s NSA on TV. Does it mean that he and his collaborators have wire-tapping facilities?” Onanuga wrote. “This should be thoroughly investigated and punishment meted out. El-Rufai is not too big to face the wrath of the law.”

The presidential aide insisted that the claim raises serious national security concerns and should not be treated lightly.

Onanuga’s reaction followed an interview El-Rufai granted on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme, where he alleged that he had listened to a phone conversation in which Ribadu purportedly “ordered” his arrest.

According to El-Rufai, “someone tapped” the NSA’s phone and made the recording available to him. Although he admitted that such an act is illegal, he argued that the government itself engages in similar practices without obtaining court authorisation.

“The government thinks they are the only ones that listen to calls but we also have our ways,” El-Rufai reportedly said during the interview.

The exchange has sparked fresh debate over surveillance practices, legality, and accountability within Nigeria’s security architecture, with observers calling for clarity on the allegations and their implications for national security.

The lawmaker representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Dele Adeola, has extended warm felicitations to Otunba Seye Famojuro on the occasion of his birthday, praising him as a steadfast figure whose influence continues to strengthen the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State.

In a goodwill message released to mark the celebration, Adeola commended Famojuro’s unwavering commitment to party unity and his strategic support for the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde. He noted that the celebrant’s depth of experience and measured approach to political engagement have played a significant role in fostering harmony within the party and advancing governance efforts in the state.

Describing him as an astute mobilizer and consensus builder, the lawmaker said Famojuro has consistently demonstrated leadership anchored on dialogue, loyalty, and long-term vision. According to him, the celebrant’s contributions transcend partisan lines, shaping constructive discourse and reinforcing institutional stability across Oyo State.

Adeola also lauded the Balogun Bobajiro of Orile Igbon for his dedication to progressive values and his enduring efforts toward strengthening party structures, noting that such qualities remain vital to the PDP’s sustained growth and cohesion.

As he celebrates another milestone, the lawmaker prayed for good health, greater accomplishments, and renewed energy for Famojuro to continue serving the party and the people with distinction. He urged political associates and well-wishers to honour a man whose steady leadership has become a cornerstone of stability within the PDP in Oyo State.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has described the late Lucia Onabanjo as a woman whose life was marked by quiet service, strong moral values and unwavering family support that helped sustain public leadership in the state.

The governor spoke during the Funeral Mass held on Friday at St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, where he pledged the state government’s support for the completion of the cathedral project in her honour.

Abiodun said the late matriarch lived a simple and disciplined life, deliberately staying away from public attention while earning deep respect for her humility, faith and ethical standards. He noted that her influence was felt not through political office but through the strength of character she instilled within her family and community.

According to the governor, Mama Onabanjo’s life reflected the vital role women play in shaping society through moral guidance, resilience and quiet leadership at home and beyond.

“In honour of Mama Lucia Onabanjo, the Iya-Ijo of this church, we will support the completion of this cathedral so it can stand as one of her enduring legacies,” Abiodun said, assuring church authorities of timely delivery of the project.

He further described her as a devoted wife and mother who promoted discipline, faith and responsibility within her household, adding that she remained steadfast beside her husband, Olabisi Onabanjo, even during difficult political moments, including his detention after the 1983 military coup.

Earlier in his homily, Reverend Father Mary Odunsi said Mama Onabanjo played a quiet but significant role in the success of her husband’s administration, describing her as a silent achiever whose contributions to the church and society would continue to inspire generations.

The Funeral Mass was attended by several dignitaries, including former governors, lawmakers, traditional leaders and prominent political figures from across Ogun State and beyond.

The Osun State Government has revealed that President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to visit the state today to formally receive defectors into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ahead of the visit, the State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, accused the state APC leadership of allegedly plotting to instigate unrest in a bid to discredit Governor Ademola Adeleke before the August 8, 2026 governorship election.

Alimi claimed the government uncovered what he described as a “sinister plan” by the opposition to stage a protest designed to trigger a breakdown of law and order, with the intention of framing the ruling party as being responsible.

According to him, the state government has urged residents to remain calm and disregard the alleged plot, stressing that it will not be intimidated or distracted by actions aimed at destabilising the state as preparations intensify for the 2026 governorship poll.

Member, representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Dele Adeola has extended warm and heartfelt birthday felicitations to the Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Sanjo Adedoyin, and distinguished lawmaker Honourable Comforter Olufunke, as they celebrate their birthdays today.

In his congratulatory message, Hon. Adeola described Hon. Sanjo as a steadfast leader whose commitment, legislative competence, and dedication to the progress of Oyo State continue to strengthen the Assembly and deepen democratic governance. He commended his sense of responsibility and unwavering passion for effective representation.

He also praised Hon. Comforter Olufunke for her remarkable contributions to lawmaking and grassroots development, noting her compassion, resilience, and strong advocacy for the welfare of her constituents. According to him, her service reflects integrity and purposeful leadership.

Hon. Adeola prayed for renewed strength, divine wisdom, sound health, and greater accomplishments for both celebrants in the years ahead. He expressed confidence that their collective efforts will continue to advance sustainable development and prosperity across Oyo State.

He wished them many more fruitful years in service to humanity and the good people of Oyo State.

The Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday took the first reading of a Bill seeking to amend the Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery Law, 2005, with a view to renaming the institution and strengthening its operational and academic framework.

The Bill, titled Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was read on the floor of the House during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.

The proposed legislation seeks to change the name of the institution from Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery to Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, in line with the evolving landscape of nursing education and to align the College with national and international standards.

According to the highlights of the Bill, the amendment empowers the Governing Council of the College to establish satellite campuses in any part of Oyo State, while providing legal backing for any satellite campuses already in existence.

It further stipulates that the management and day-to-day administration of such campuses shall remain under the control of the main campus until prescribed developmental milestones are attained, after which the State Government may grant autonomy.

To ensure effective academic and administrative coordination, the Bill proposes the creation of the office of a Deputy Provost for each satellite campus.

The Deputy Provost, to be appointed for a tenure of two years, will oversee academic and administrative affairs of the campus and be responsible to the Provost.

The amendment also enables the College to mount courses approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and to affiliate with any recognized local or international university that meets its requirements and shares the vision of the institution, as may be determined by the Governing Council.

Further provisions of the Bill include a review of the composition of the Governing Council to accommodate a Chairman who must be a retired graduate nurse with at least fifteen years post-qualification experience.

It also provides for a single, fixed tenure of five years for principal officers of the College, including the Provost, Registrar, Librarian, Bursar and Director of Works.

In addition, the Bill proposes a uniform retirement age of sixty-five years for all academic and non-teaching staff of the College, notwithstanding the length of service or the provisions of any other law, regulation or condition of service.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has elevated 14 high chiefs and Baales in Oyo town to crown-wearing Obas, despite resistance from the Alaafin.

The coronation ceremony, held on February 13 at Oliveth Baptist High School, saw the newly installed monarchs receive their instruments of office in a symbolic consolidation of traditional authority.

Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal described the elevation as a strategic step to strengthen traditional institutions, enhance grassroots governance, and promote peace and development across communities.

He charged the new Obas to lead with integrity, fairness, and inclusiveness, emphasizing the crucial role traditional rulers play in security, unity, and community progress.

The development is widely seen as a significant shift in Oyo’s traditional power structure, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to redefining local leadership dynamics.

INEC Chairman, Amupitan, has addressed the issue of vote buying during elections, stressing that such malpractice will not be tolerated in the upcoming polls. He explained that the commission has already put in place necessary measures, in collaboration with security agencies, to detect, prevent, and prosecute anyone involved in attempting to buy votes.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, he said: “We have directed the Nigeria Police and the EFCC to arrest vote buyers during the election. Cause we have been noted that this is also flagged by a committee, and high number of security vilence that is likely to occur”

He added: “We are doing all these cause we have been presented an evidence based information and we are not going to take it for granted. We will share it with our security partners so they use the information to take necessary steps they ought to take.”

Igbo-Elerin Grammar School, Bamgbola, Ibadan, came alive with excitement and celebration on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, as it hosted its 40th Inter-House Sports Competition amidst cheers from students, staff, parents and invited guests. The school field was filled with joy as the colourful biennial ceremony commenced at about 10:30 a.m. with an opening prayer, followed by the national anthem, national pledge and the Oyo State anthem.

In her welcome address, the Principal, Mrs. Elizabeth Oluyemisi Ajewole, expressed gratitude to guests and encouraged students to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and unity. The event was chaired by a notable alumnus and the CEO of Waterfield Luxury Hotels, Alhaji Ismail Hameed and also in attendance were other dignitaries including the National President of Igbo-Elerin Old Students’ Association, Engr. Sunday Gbenjo, representatives of the Old Students’ Association, TESCOM officials and other stakeholders who delivered goodwill messages and applauded the school’s commitment to academic and extracurricular excellence.

The competition began in earnest with a vibrant march pass by the four houses, namely Red (Lana House), Blue (Adejumo House), Green (Bamgbola House) and Yellow (Fadipe House). The display was followed by track events including 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races for junior, intermediate and senior categories. A cultural dance performance added glamour to the occasion, while invited schools participated in relay races. Staff members also thrilled spectators during a special staff race.

At the end of the keenly contested events, Red House emerged overall winner with 356 points, clinching the coveted trophy. Blue House secured second position with 331 points, Green House came third with 260 points, while Yellow House finished fourth with 243 points.

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Prizes and trophies were presented to outstanding athletes, and donations were also made by alumni and supporters towards the development of the school. The memorable sporting fiesta concluded peacefully at about 4:00 p.m.

The lawmaker representing Ido Local Government Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Razaq Mabaje, has provided financial support to 500 constituents in a major empowerment initiative valued at ₦25 million.

Under the programme, each beneficiary received ₦50,000, with recipients drawn from across Ward 1 to Ward 10 in Ido Local Government. Beneficiaries included farmers, market men and women, business owners, community leaders, party stakeholders, and loyal members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Hon. Mabaje described the initiative as part of his ongoing commitment to improving the welfare of his constituents and strengthening grassroots support. He assured beneficiaries that more empowerment programmes would follow, reaffirming his dedication to inclusive development in the constituency.

Speaking at the event, the PDP State Auditor, Alhaji Akinsola Ayuba, urged party members to remain united and steadfast. He stressed that the PDP remains strong in Oyo State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.
“Let us remain one family. Do not allow anyone to mislead you about our party. We are still in PDP and Governor Seyi Makinde is our leader. If anyone invites you to any meeting outside the structure of our party, kindly reach out to me or your party chairman,” he said.

The Executive Chairman of Ido Local Government, Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, commended Mabaje for what he described as a timely and impactful initiative. He also announced a donation of ₦1 million to party members, encouraging continued support for the State Assembly and the Local Government Council.

Reiterating loyalty to Governor Makinde, Adeojo declared, “Seyi Makinde is our leader. If the Governor says we move, we move together. There is no more caucus in Ido Local Government — we are one family.”

The event was attended by several party leaders and stakeholders, including Mallam Muyili Yusuf; Alhaji Akinsola Ayuba (PDP State Auditor); Yisau Alabanla; Akano Matthew; Obe Jimoh; Ibrahim Tiamiyu; Kunle Akinwande; Alhaji Asimiyu Lawal; Oladipupo Musibau; Lateef Fashola Adepoju; Mukaila Diekola; Pastor Akintokun; and Alhaji Atilola.
Also present were the Vice Chairman, Hon. Fashina; the Speaker of the House; councilors; supervisory councilors; special assistants; the PDP Chairman in Ido Local Government, Emiola Musibau; and Adeyanju Mustapha, former Chief of Staff of Ido Local Government.

The empowerment programme further underscores Hon. Mabaje’s commitment to grassroots development and party unity in Ido Local Government.