Oduduwa News

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has criticised President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima over the newly implemented tax administration law, saying the current federal leadership has made it difficult to “speak truth to power.”

Speaking in Ibadan at the 60th birthday celebration of cleric Samson Ajetomobi, Makinde said he misses the governance style of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, whom he praised for being open to consultation and differing opinions.

The governor recalled how Osinbajo’s intervention during a National Economic Council meeting in 2020 influenced his decision not to impose a full COVID-19 lockdown in Oyo State, describing it as an example of inclusive leadership and balanced decision-making.

Makinde contrasted that with the Tinubu–Shettima administration’s handling of the tax reform bill, noting that calls for broader consultation were ignored. He added that despite a recent closed-door meeting with President Tinubu, he remains in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Traders and passers-by at the Apete area of Ibadan on Sunday were thrown into panic after a gas-laden truck was almost completely engulfed by fire near Nobility Filling Station.

The incident occurred around 5:00 p.m., prompting traders and other road users in the busy area to scamper for safety over fears of a possible explosion.

Eyewitnesses said the fire started from one side of the truck, reportedly around the battery compartment, forcing the driver to abruptly halt in the middle of the road. The driver quickly deployed fire extinguishers in an attempt to contain the blaze.

The fire was eventually brought under control, and no casualties were recorded.
As of the time of filing this report, the truck remained parked on the road to allow it to cool before resuming movement, while traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted.

Street sweepers employed by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) have raised alarm over what they describe as daily abuse, harassment and inhumane treatment from Lagos residents, saying their job has become increasingly dangerous and degrading.

The sweepers shared their experiences during an episode of The Morayo Show, where emotional testimonies revealed the harsh realities behind keeping Lagos streets clean — realities they say are marked by insults, threats and deliberate sabotage of their work.

One of the sweepers, Kafilat, lamented that motorists who park illegally often turn on them instead of taking responsibility for their actions.
“They park anywhere they like and tell us to go and sweep somewhere else,” she said. “As if we are not human beings doing our job.”

Another worker, Olatitoye Adeola, accused some residents of intentionally dumping refuse on cleared roads after LAWMA trucks have completed waste evacuation.

“When we caution them, they threaten us,” she said. “They ask, ‘Is it your father’s land?’ They are ready to fight us.”
Taiwo Ologunro also described a frustrating cycle in which traders and householders repeatedly litter already-cleaned areas, forcing sweepers to redo the same work multiple times.

According to the workers, the persistent disrespect and stigma attached to their jobs have taken a toll on their morale, despite the essential role they play in maintaining environmental hygiene across the state.

They called on the Lagos State Government and the general public to show greater respect for sanitation workers and to support efforts to keep the city clean. If you want, I can also make it shorter, more emotional, or more investigative-style for online news platforms or blogs.

Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim, has accused the Nigerian government and elements within the security apparatus of complicity in the country’s worsening insecurity, warning that terrorism and mass kidnappings cannot be defeated amid official denial, suppression of facts, and intimidation of affected communities.

Hashim made the remarks while reacting to the kidnapping of over 170 persons in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, an incident that security authorities initially denied before later acknowledging.

According to him, the denial exposed a troubling and increasingly common pattern in Nigeria’s security management, the suppression of information rather than decisive action. “No matter the level of international action against terrorism, Nigeria will not get results as long as local authorities are compromised and complicit,” Hashim said.

He described the initial handling of the Kajuru incident as a “calculated attempt to erase a crime,” arguing that it reflects a system that now treats truth as a liability instead of a foundation for effective security response. Hashim also raised concerns over the alleged intimidation of victim communities, noting that affected populations are often pressured into silence rather than protected by authorities.

The former presidential candidate linked this trend to heightened international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security situation following the United States’ Christmas Day airstrikes on terrorist locations in northern Nigeria.

According to him, the period after the strikes witnessed further attacks that were allegedly concealed by officials. He cited reports from Kebbi State, where terrorists reportedly killed at least nine people about a week after the U.S. operation.

“Credible community leaders confirmed that information about the killings was officially suppressed, and warnings were issued against speaking out,” Hashim stated.

He further criticised the federal government’s response to the U.S. strikes, accusing the APC-led administration of failing to leverage the operation to dismantle terrorist networks.

Hashim said that despite claims by government officials that Nigeria had prior knowledge of the strikes, there was no corresponding deployment of ground forces to intercept or apprehend fleeing insurgents.

“Surviving terrorists were allowed to escape across the border into Niger Republic. This was a missed strategic opportunity,” he said.

According to Hashim, the failure, or unwillingness to intercept retreating insurgents raises serious questions about intent within Nigeria’s security architecture.
“Nigeria’s insecurity is no longer just about capacity, funding, or intelligence. It is increasingly about intent and accountability,” he added.

He concluded by warning that unless official denial, information suppression, and alleged complicity are confronted head-on, Nigeria’s security crisis will persist, regardless of foreign support or military intervention.

The Awujale kingmakers are determined not to accept any imposition, according to Olorogun Sonny Folorunso Kuku, Chairman of the Interregnum Council and Head of Kingmakers in Ijebu-Ode. The government had halted the selection process, citing petitions from stakeholders and security agencies, but the kingmakers haven’t received any official communication. They’re working with the government to resolve the issue and resume the process .

The selection process had generated 95 applications, with six fully completed. The kingmakers are reviewing the documents carefully to ensure a fair and peaceful outcome. Security presence around the palace is heightened, but it’s reportedly not related to influencing the process.

The kingmakers assure the public that their actions are guided by the desire for peace and selecting the best candidate. They’re taking their responsibility seriously, considering the impact on the Ijebu people for generations to come .

Ogun State is set to witness a significant economic boost following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Eba in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, alongside renewed momentum for the Olokola Deep Seaport project.

Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this at the weekend while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, during a courtesy visit to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

According to the governor, President Tinubu’s approval marks a major breakthrough after years of anticipation surrounding both projects, describing the development as a turning point in Ogun State’s economic history.

“Mr President has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling operations at Eba, Ogun Waterside. Going forward, we will begin to see increased activities in that area,” Abiodun said.

“Our proposed Olokola Port, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is now back on the table. In the last two weeks alone, we have held several meetings on Olokola, and Mr President has clearly expressed his desire to see the port become a reality.”

The Olokola Deep Seaport, to be developed as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, is expected to become operational next year. The port is designed to decongest the Lagos ports, improve logistics efficiency, and position Ogun State as a major maritime and trade hub in West Africa.

Governor Abiodun said the project would also enhance national security, noting that the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, approved earlier, would oversee the coastline up to Edo State. He added that the state government provided land to facilitate the naval base in order to strengthen coastal security and prevent cross-border infiltration.

The commencement of oil drilling at Eba is expected to place Ogun among Nigeria’s oil-producing states, making it eligible for 13 per cent derivation funds. The development is also projected to generate employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth in coastal communities, and provide funding for infrastructure and social development. There is also potential for bitumen extraction in the area.

On the economic impact of the Olokola Deep Seaport, the governor noted that the deep-water facility would accommodate large vessels, eliminate demurrage costs due to its Free Trade Zone status, and serve as a major transit point for goods destined for the hinterland, eastern and northern parts of the country.

The seaport is projected to generate substantial revenue for the state through trade, logistics, leases, and royalties, as well as create direct and indirect employment opportunities.

Abiodun also highlighted the state’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, including the Gateway International Airport and Aerotropolis at Iperu-Ilishan, which features a 4-kilometre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft. The airport is expected to support cargo processing, agricultural exports, and logistics services.

He said the state’s integrated development strategy, which includes industrial parks, agro-processing zones, and transport infrastructure, aligns with the administration’s ISEYA agenda aimed at driving sustainable economic growth and positioning Ogun State as a leading investment destination in Nigeria.

The governor reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to collaborating with federal authorities and private investors to ensure the successful implementation of the projects.

Ibadan, January 20, 2026 — A civic group, the Oyo Heritage Forum, has petitioned the Oyo State House of Assembly, calling for an urgent investigation into the recent selection of the Alaafin of Oyo, citing alleged irregularities, political interference and growing legal disputes surrounding the process.

In a petition addressed to the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, the group urged lawmakers to initiate a legislative inquiry into the appointment of Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, warning that the development has plunged the revered Alaafin stool into legal and political uncertainty.

The group alleged that the traditional kingmakers, known as the Oyo Mesi, had earlier reached a consensus in favour of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin, in line with the 1961 Alaafin Chieftaincy Declaration. According to the petitioners, the subsequent appointment of Oba Owoade by the state government amounted to a circumvention of traditional procedures, which they described as a dangerous precedent capable of undermining the integrity of traditional institutions.

The petition further referenced an ongoing court case filed by Prince Gbadegesin, noting that the matter has rendered the current monarch’s position legally vulnerable. The group also questioned the reliance on Ifa divination in the selection process, citing a 2022 High Court ruling which, they claimed, held that Ifa consultation is not a legal requirement under the existing chieftaincy declaration. In addition, they raised concerns over the alleged use of emergency warrant chiefs to validate the process.

The petitioners also accused the monarch of political partisanship and insubordination, citing his legal action against the Oyo State Government over the Oyo State Council of Obas (Further Amendments) Law 2025. They argued that such action, coupled with what they described as visible alignment with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), has further heightened tensions between the traditional institution and the state executive.

As part of their demands, the group called on the House of Assembly to convene a public hearing, invite surviving members of the Oyo Mesi to testify, and review the entire selection process to determine whether there was undue political influence. They also urged lawmakers to ensure full compliance with the 2025 law governing the rotational chairmanship of the Council of Obas.

The petition was signed by Otunba Dare Adelekan, Group Chief Executive of Probe Communications Group, who described the petition as a move to protect the sanctity of the Oyo throne and preserve public confidence in traditional institutions.

As of the time of filing this report, the Oyo State Government and the Palace had not issued an official response to the allegations.

In a move of necessity aimed at ensuring a smooth, befitting, and well-coordinated transitional process, bidding the outgoing indigenous national leadership of the Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU National) a commendable and commemorative farewell while ushering in the newly elected leaders of the union, the Senior Special Assistant to the Oyo State Governor on Students’ Affairs, Hon. Victor Olojede Dideoluwa, has officially inaugurated the FOSSU National Inauguration Committee. The inauguration took place yesterday in his office at the Ministry of Education, Oyo State Secretariat Complex, Agodi, Ibadan.

Following this development, the inauguration was occasioned by an official correspondence addressed to the office of the SSA on Students’ Affairs by the incoming leadership of the union under the stewardship of Hon. Comrade Ààre Mufutau Ahmed Ademola, through which names of competent and experienced individuals drawn across the five zones of Oyo State were submitted for the proper constitution of the Inauguration Committee, subject to the approval of the SSA.

Subsequently, the nine-member FOSSU National Inauguration Committee was formally inaugurated by Hon. Victor Olojede Dideoluwa, with Ààre Ogunola Sodiq Olayemi appointed as Chairman, while Comr. Jamiu Lukman Asiri and Comr. Akanni Muhammed serve as Co-Chairmen. Sen. Ààre (Amb.) ISHAK Yusuf Oyetunji (Sagacity), the Oke-Ogun Zone National President, was named Secretary of the committee and Ààre Yusuff Ridwan Folarin, Oyo Zone National President as Public Relations Officer. Other members include:

• Comrade Mufutau Ahmed A., FOSSU National President-Elect
• Ààre Giwa Kamorudeen, Ibadan Zone National President
• Ààre Alaja Joseph Oluwafemi, Ogbomoso Zone National President
• Ààre Abass Adesola Olaniyan, Ibarapa Zone National President

In his address to the committee, the SSA charged members to work efficiently and collaboratively to deliver an outstanding and unprecedented inauguration ceremony, emphasizing that the process should be enriched with structured activities capable of creating a week-long, memorable, and grand inaugural experience that reflects the values and aspirations of indigenous Oyo State students.

To this end, proposed activities for the inauguration include a novelty football match between FOSSU National and the Zones, visitation to orphanage homes, the official inauguration ceremony, and a Dinner and Awards Night, with clear directives that sub-committees be constituted for each activity, comprising assiduous comrades cutting across the five zones of the state.

Ultimately, Hon. Victor Olojede Dideoluwa directed the committee to resume duties with immediate effect, charging its leadership and members to work conjunctively with all sub-committees to diligently oversee activities and ensure timely delivery. The appointed members unanimously expressed their acceptance and commitment, while the committee called on all Oyo State indigenous students to remain expectant as preparations progress towards the fulfillment of constitutionally imposed duties.

Ajísebí Òyó Làárí
Òyó ò sebí baba enì kóòkan

©️ Sen. Ààre (Amb.) ISHAK Yusuf Oyetunji (Sagacity)
Secretary, FOSSU National Inauguration Committee

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the commencement of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, positioning Ogun State to officially become an oil-producing state. Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed this while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, during a courtesy visit in Abeokuta.

The Governor also announced that the long-awaited Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area has been approved for immediate take-off. He revealed that the new seaport will be known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, and described the development as a major breakthrough that will help decongest Lagos ports and unlock massive economic opportunities for coastal communities.

Governor Abiodun commended President Tinubu’s strong interest in both projects, disclosed ongoing engagements to fast-track implementation, and praised the Nigerian Navy for upgrading its presence at Tongeji Island to a Forward Operations Base to strengthen border security. Rear Admiral Mustapha, in turn, reaffirmed Ogun State’s strategic importance to national security and pledged deeper collaboration with the state government.

Ogun State Government has for the second time put on hold the process of selecting a candidate for the stool of Awujale of Ijebuland.

The new development was conveyed in a letter dated January 20, 2026 sent to the chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government.

The letter was signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat. It followed the second petition to the state government by Fuji King, Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1).

The letter from the government instructed the Ijebu Ode Council Chairman to direct the Kingmakers to put all processes on hold and await further instructions.