Senator Sarafadeen Alli has alleged that he is being deliberately targeted in the controversy surrounding his elevation to obaship status, accusing Governor Seyi Makinde of political maneuvering. He insisted that he is not responsible for the crisis but is being unfairly dragged into it.
Alli made the disclosure today while speaking to party men and stakeholders in APC ahead of his forthcoming official declaration for governorship position in Oyo State.
The dispute follows the Oyo State Government’s approval of the elevation of some high chiefs in Ibadanland, including Alli, to wear beaded crowns as traditional rulers. The move has generated tension, particularly after reports that the affected chiefs were absent during the planned coronation ceremony.
Alli explained that legal issues surrounding the obaship matter are already before the court, emphasizing that he has no intention of disrupting traditional processes. He expressed concern over attempts to portray him as a destabilizing figure in the unfolding situation.
The controversy has stirred political undercurrents in Oyo State, with observers linking the development to wider power struggles, especially as Alli is considered a significant opposition figure ahead of future elections.
Despite the backlash, the state government maintains that the elevation exercise followed due process under existing chieftaincy laws, insisting that the decision was taken to uphold the structure and integrity of the Ibadan traditional institution.
The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, have firmly dismissed allegations made by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over an alleged plot to dethrone the monarch as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
In separate responses issued through their media representatives, both the Oyo State Government and the Olubadan Palace described the claims as unfounded, misleading, and entirely baseless.
Fayose had earlier taken to his X (formerly Twitter) handle to allege that Governor Makinde was planning to remove Oba Ladoja from office. He further claimed that the monarch could be queried for not attending the recent elevation ceremony of High Chief Sharafadeen Ali to the status of Obas in Ibadan.
Reacting, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Dotun Oyelade, categorically debunked the allegation, stating that the government has never contemplated, discussed, or initiated any such move.
“By now, Nigerians know who and what to believe, especially when the information comes from a particular quarter,” Oyelade said.
“The Oyo State Government has never contemplated, discussed, or planned such an action. There has to be a credible motive for every government action, and this, coming from the unofficial spokesman of our opponents, is better consigned to the refuse dump where it belongs.
“Desperate politics foists thoughtless propaganda and reduces democracy into a joke,” he added.
Also responding, the media aide to the Olubadan, Adeola Oloko, described the allegation as a baseless rumour, emphasizing that there is no rift between Governor Makinde and the revered monarch.
“It will be most unfortunate if it is not a rumour,” Oloko stated.
“I don’t see any cause for friction between Governor Makinde and the Olubadan of Ibadanland.”
Both the state government and the palace reaffirmed the existing cordial relationship between Governor Makinde and Oba Ladoja, urging the public to disregard the claims, which they described as politically motivated speculation aimed at causing unnecessary tension.
…Says Nigerian lives so devalued world no longer even bothers to condole
A former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has said that a fresh wave of mass killings across Nigeria, many of them underreported has intensified accusations of global indifference, as repeated attacks in Shanga Local Government of Kebbi state and many spots in the North Central region and other parts of the country continue to expose what appears to be a widening and persistent security collapse.
In a statement issued by Dr Gbenga Hashim, an Amnesty International Prisoner of Conscience (1989), he said the true scale of killings is being dangerously underreported and increasingly normalized.
According to Hashim, attacks in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State in the past week reportedly left over 40 people dead and houses burnt ,with local sources indicating the toll may be higher than 40 as the number of dead rises every day. He said similar attacks few weeks back claimed seven lives ,while the community had faced persistent attacks from terrorists without any kind of security support from Government.
He described the incident as another in a growing list of mass killings in rural Nigeria that fail to sustain national and global attention.
He further stated that in Kwara State, coordinated attacks across Kaiama, Baruten, and Ifelodun have left 20 to 50 people dead in recent weeks, including five forest guards, noting that many of these incidents barely register beyond local reporting channels.
Across the wider North Central region, Hashim said the situation is escalating without meaningful international alarm. In Benue State, repeated attacks have reportedly killed 50 to over 100 people within weeks. In Plateau State, coordinated night raids have left 30 to 80 dead, while Niger State has recorded 20 to 50 fatalities, and Nasarawa State has suffered 10 to 20 deaths from spillover violence.
Taken together, these reports suggest that between 130 and 300 people may have been killed within weeks across a single region, a scale of mass casualty that Hashim says is being met with “selective attention and dangerous silence.”
The former presidential candidate and 2009 recipient of the Lord Max Berlof prize for Global Affairs warned that the widening gap between reality and global awareness has become morally troubling, arguing that mass killings in rural Nigeria are increasingly treated as routine statistics rather than urgent human catastrophe.
He also highlighted the continued operations of armed groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, alongside expanding bandit networks exploiting weak security presence, difficult terrain, and delayed response systems.
At the national level, Hashim said the spread and repetition of attacks across multiple states point to a structural failure of security coordination rather than isolated incidents.
Hashim, also criticized the muted response of global institutions, noting that both the United Nations and the African Union have remained largely silent relative to the scale of ongoing mass killings.
According to him, apart from US President Donald Trump who has shown consistent concerns, most countries of the world have accepted the dehumanization of Nigerian lives despite our leading role in global peacekeeping missions to protect many across the world. He specifically expressed deep concern about the silence of African countries who have benefited massively from Nigeria’s generosity and goodwill in the past.
He said there is now a growing perception that Nigerian lives have been so devalued in global consciousness that even routine expressions of condolence are no longer made, raising what he described as a disturbing moral question about international priorities.
Hashim asked a series of questions requiring global responses.
Why has the world become desensitized to mass killings in Nigeria? Why do Nigerian deaths no longer trigger sustained global outrage or urgency? And how many more must die before silence itself is treated as complicity?
He said these questions are no longer rhetorical, but reflect what appears to be a global system increasingly selective in its moral attention.
For many observers, he added, the issue is no longer only insecurity, but the collapse of global response mechanisms in the face of repeated human loss.
Hashim warned that this trajectory risks normalizing mass death, where tragedy becomes routine and urgency disappears.
For now, he concluded, the reality remains unchanged: the killings continue, the numbers rise, and too many victims remain unseen and uncounted!
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been selected to host the 2026 edition of the West Africa University Games (WAUG), with no fewer than 16 countries already confirming their participation.
The development marks a major milestone for the institution and Nigeria’s sports and academic community, as the university prepares to welcome athletes, officials, and delegates from across West Africa for the prestigious multi-sport event.
Authorities at OAU expressed optimism about hosting a successful tournament, noting that the university possesses the infrastructure, experience, and organisational capacity required to deliver a world-class sporting event. They added that preparations are already underway to upgrade sporting facilities, accommodation, and logistics to meet international standards.
The West Africa University Games is a biennial sporting competition that brings together universities from across the sub-region to compete in various sporting disciplines, while also promoting unity, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration among participating countries.
Organisers revealed that the 2026 edition will feature a wide range of sports, including athletics, football, basketball, volleyball, and other indoor and outdoor games. The event is also expected to provide a platform for discovering young talents who could represent their countries at continental and global competitions.
Stakeholders in the education and sports sectors have lauded the selection of OAU as host, describing it as a testament to the university’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading academic institutions. They also noted that the games would boost local economy, tourism, and youth engagement in sports.
With 16 countries already indicating interest, expectations are high that the 2026 WAUG will be one of the most competitive and colourful editions in recent history, further strengthening regional ties and showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship among West African youths.
Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose has alleged that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde is plotting to remove the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja from office, sparking fresh controversy in the state’s traditional and political landscape.
Fayose made the claim during a media interaction, where he accused Makinde of interfering in the traditional institution in Oyo State, particularly in Ibadanland. According to him, any attempt to tamper with the revered Olubadan stool could destabilise the long-standing chieftaincy system known for its unique and orderly succession process.
He warned that the Olubadan institution, widely respected for its stability and transparency, should not be subjected to political manipulation. Fayose insisted that any perceived move to remove or undermine the monarch would be strongly resisted by the people of Ibadan and stakeholders across Yorubaland.
“The Olubadan system is not something you toy with. It is one of the most organised traditional institutions in Nigeria. Any attempt to remove the Olubadan will create unnecessary tension,” Fayose said.
The former governor further urged Makinde to respect traditional institutions and focus on governance, noting that preserving cultural heritage remains vital to peace and unity in the state.
Reacting to the allegation, sources within the Oyo State Government described Fayose’s claim as baseless and politically motivated. The sources maintained that Governor Makinde holds the Olubadan institution in high regard and has consistently demonstrated respect for traditional rulers in the state.
They added that the administration has, in fact, strengthened relationships with monarchs across Oyo State through developmental initiatives and regular consultations, dismissing any suggestion of a plot to remove the Olubadan.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the palace of Olubadan the regarding the allegation.
The development has nonetheless generated debate among political observers, with many calling for caution to avoid unnecessary tension over sensitive traditional matters.
The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee has dismissed as false and misleading reports suggesting that the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, admitted to errors in Nigeria’s newly introduced tax laws.
In a statement issued to counter what it described as “fake news,” the committee said certain media publications had misrepresented the Minister’s remarks, falsely claiming he acknowledged flaws in the reforms and advised Nigerians to await the outcome of a legislative probe. It clarified that the legislative process on the tax laws had long been concluded, with certified gazetted copies already published by the National Assembly since January 2026.
According to the committee, such distorted narratives risk misleading the public and undermining confidence in reforms designed to improve the nation’s tax system. It stressed that the Minister’s comments were taken out of context and did not reflect any admission of fundamental errors.
The committee explained that Oyedele, while speaking at a recent fireside chat during the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) conference in Lagos, actually highlighted the early successes of the reforms. These include a significant rise in the number of informal businesses seeking registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), as well as a surge in registered taxpayers nationwide from fewer than 10 million prior to the reforms to over 100 million.
It further noted that the achievements are driven by key provisions in the new tax laws, including exemptions for small companies, higher thresholds for low-income earners, and tax relief on essential goods and services such as food, education, healthcare, transportation, and rent. The introduction of a Tax Ombud to safeguard taxpayer rights was also highlighted as a major innovation.
While acknowledging that no law is entirely without room for improvement, the committee stated that Oyedele merely emphasised the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement to identify gaps and refine policies through future Finance Bills.
The committee urged Nigerians to disregard sensational headlines and rely on verified information from official channels and credible media organisations when seeking clarity on government policies.
It reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to building a fair, inclusive, and efficient tax system that supports economic growth and benefits all citizens.
A chieftain of the (APC) and former Chairman of the (NCC), , has declared that his extensive track record in public service and grassroots development positions him as the most qualified candidate to represent Oyo North Senatorial District in the Senate.
Akande made this assertion while speaking with journalists, highlighting his longstanding ties with the people and a career marked by impactful service. According to him, his journey through various strategic roles including Deputy Chief Press Secretary and Communications Strategist to the President, Chief of Staff to a former Oyo State governor, and leadership positions at the (NITDA) and NCC has consistently translated into tangible benefits for his community.
“To start with, I’ve always been part of the community. God has given me opportunities to serve, and in all these roles, I have ensured that my people benefit. That, to me, is the most important thing for any politician,” he said.
The senatorial aspirant maintained that his achievements across Oyo State serve as a visible testament to his capacity to deliver effective representation. He noted that his widespread impact eliminates the need for excessive political persuasion.
“If you go around Oyo North, indeed across Oyo State, my footprint is everywhere. I don’t need much effort to convince people that I will represent them efficiently if given the opportunity,” he added.
Citing key interventions during his tenure at the NCC, Akande pointed to multiple ICT projects worth over a billion naira each, facilitated in institutions such as the and . He also highlighted campus-wide internet installations at institutions in Ogbomoso, Saki, Oyo, and Igboora, as well as ICT centres in several tertiary institutions and secondary schools.
Beyond education, he noted that markets and public infrastructure also benefited from digital connectivity projects, including Bodija Market and . He further recalled facilitating a state-of-the-art ambulance to the during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Akande also underscored his commitment to youth empowerment, revealing that over 1,000 young people were trained in ICT under his leadership at the NCC, with beneficiaries receiving laptops, data support, and mentorship to become self-reliant in the digital economy.
Speaking on his professional background, Akande argued that his unique blend of experience as a journalist, political science lecturer, and legal practitioner has equipped him with the necessary tools for effective lawmaking.
“Journalism is about the welfare of the people, political science is about governance for the greater good, and law is about order and justice. Combining these, I am eminently prepared for legislative duties,” he said.
Reaffirming his ambition, Akande expressed confidence in his readiness for the Senate, insisting that both his experience and contributions to society make him a strong candidate to represent Oyo North effectively.
“By virtue of my training and my service to the community, I am eminently qualified. I have no doubt that I will be a good representative of my people,” he concluded.
The on Saturday recorded a massive turnout as it held a high-profile political rally in , the hometown of Osun State Governor, .
The rally, which took place at a central venue in the ancient town, attracted party faithful, supporters, and curious residents, marking a significant political statement in a territory widely regarded as a stronghold of the governor and the ruling (PDP).
Party leaders and chieftains who addressed the crowd described the turnout as a clear indication of growing support for the Accord Party across Osun State. They emphasized the need for credible alternatives in governance, promising inclusive leadership, economic revitalization, and people-oriented policies if given the mandate in future elections.
Speaking at the event, key figures within the party reiterated their commitment to grassroots mobilization, noting that the choice of Ede for the rally was deliberate. According to them, the impressive crowd turnout sends a strong signal that political dominance in the state is no longer exclusive to any single party.
Residents who attended the rally expressed mixed reactions. While some lauded the Accord Party for bringing political engagement closer to the people, others viewed the event as a bold but challenging move in a town traditionally loyal to Governor Adeleke.
Political analysts say the rally could reshape the dynamics ahead of future electoral contests in Osun State, as opposition parties intensify efforts to penetrate perceived strongholds of incumbents.
Security operatives were visibly present throughout the event to maintain order, while party supporters displayed banners, chanted slogans, and danced in a festive atmosphere that underscored the rally’s significance.
The development signals a potentially shifting political landscape in Osun, as parties begin early mobilization and strategic positioning ahead of upcoming elections.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has approached a Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, follows the removal of their names and those of other members of the party’s National Working Committee from INEC’s official portal on April 1.
In a motion on notice dated April 7, counsel to Mark, Sulaiman Usman (SAN), urged the court to issue a mandatory injunction directing INEC to reinstate the affected officials as they were before the dispute.
The application, filed under the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, is seeking three major reliefs, including an order setting aside INEC’s decision to remove the names of the party’s National Working Committee from its portal.
Part of the relief also seeks to compel the electoral body to resume monitoring the party’s congresses and convention pending the determination of the case.
The ADC further prayed the court to direct INEC to immediately restore and maintain records recognising David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, alongside other members of the National Executive Committee.
Additionally, the party is asking the court to restrain INEC from interfering with its leadership structure or recognising any rival claims until the final resolution of the matter.
The legal action marks a fresh twist in the leadership crisis rocking the ADC, as the party battles to stabilise its internal structure ahead of future political activities.
Gunmen have killed a woman and her daughter during a kidnapping attack at a poultry farm in Igushi via Ala, in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State. Reports indicate that about five armed men stormed the farm on Thursday, killing the owner and her daughter, who was working alongside others at the time of the incident.
Confirming the attack on Friday in Akure, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said two victims were rescued alive during a swift police operation.
He described the incident as a heinous act and expressed the command’s deep sorrow over the loss of lives. Jimoh assured residents that security measures have been strengthened across the area, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest those responsible.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
