Oduduwa News

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has called on Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to refund the N30 billion intervention fund released by the Federal Government for victims of the January 16, 2024 explosion in Ibadan, insisting that the money should be returned with interest.

Fayose made the demand during a recent interview on TVC, where he raised concerns over the handling of funds approved by the Federal Government in response to the devastating explosion that rocked Old Bodija and surrounding communities in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

According to Fayose, a total of N50 billion was allegedly released by the Federal Government to address the aftermath of the explosion. He claimed that N30 billion of the intervention fund did not pass through the official coffers of the Oyo State Government, questioning the transparency and accountability surrounding its management.

The former Ekiti governor accused the Oyo State Government of failing to provide clear explanations on how the funds were handled and utilised for the benefit of victims affected by the disaster. He argued that public funds meant for emergency relief must be fully accounted for, adding that any unutilised or improperly handled funds should be refunded to the Federal Government.
Fayose further urged relevant anti-corruption and oversight agencies to investigate the claims, stressing that Nigerians deserve clarity on the disbursement and utilisation of disaster relief funds. He maintained that accountability remains critical, especially in matters involving public trust and humanitarian interventions.

The Oyo State Government has previously stated that funds released by the Federal Government for the Bodija explosion were kept in a dedicated account and remain untouched, while also highlighting billions of naira spent from the state’s own resources on reconstruction and compensation for victims. However, Fayose’s comments have reignited public debate over the management of the intervention fund.

Former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has said her resignation from the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari was orchestrated by “powerful enemies” who exploited the controversy surrounding her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate to push her out of office.

Adeosun made the claim during an interview on Inside Sources, a programme on Channels Television, scheduled to be aired on Friday. An excerpt from the interview was broadcast on Thursday during a news bulletin.

The former finance minister resigned in 2018 following allegations that she submitted a forged NYSC exemption certificate as part of her credentials, a development that sparked widespread public debate and scrutiny.

Reflecting on the episode, Adeosun said certain influential figures within the Buhari-led administration seized on the NYSC certificate saga as an opportunity to remove her from office, despite her performance and contributions to government at the time.

The Oyo State Government has clarified the status of the ₦50 billion federal intervention fund approved for the reconstruction of Old Bodija and adjoining communities after the devastating January 16, 2024 explosion in Ibadan, disclosing that the ₦30 billion so far released by the Federal Government remains untouched in a dedicated bank account.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musibau Babatunde, the state government dismissed allegations of fund misappropriation levelled by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, and the Oyo State chapter of the APC, describing them as misleading and politically motivated.

According to the statement, Governor Seyi Makinde formally requested federal intervention on January 19, 2024, just days after the explosion that claimed lives, destroyed properties and displaced residents. The letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu detailed immediate emergency actions already undertaken by the state, including search-and-rescue operations with heavy equipment, full medical treatment for victims, deployment of ambulances and medical personnel, as well as hotel accommodation for displaced residents—all funded by the state government.

Governor Makinde also sought federal support for debris evacuation, integrity tests and demolition of unsafe structures, compensation for victims, reconstruction of Old Bodija and surrounding areas, environmental impact assessments, and the strengthening of emergency response infrastructure. The total cost of the proposed interventions was estimated at ₦100 billion, out of which the Federal Government approved ₦50 billion solely for reconstruction works.

Following the approval, a special Infrastructure Support Account was opened by the Oyo State Government with First Bank of Nigeria. Of the approved sum, ₦30 billion was released through the Central Bank of Nigeria on November 4, 2024. However, the government stated that the funds have not been accessed as of December 31, 2025, stressing that members of the public are free to verify the account status with the bank.

The government explained that it has deliberately refrained from drawing from the fund because the balance of ₦20 billion has yet to be released by relevant federal agencies, nearly two years after the tragedy, without any official explanation.

Despite this delay, the state said it has continued to shoulder the financial burden of response and recovery efforts. As of January 1, 2026, Oyo State has expended ₦24.6 billion from its own resources, comprising ₦20.141 billion on infrastructure reconstruction and ₦4.085 billion paid as support and compensation to affected victims.

The statement further referenced documents circulated by Mr Fayose, indicating that ₦915.5 billion was approved nationwide as intervention funds, with some states receiving up to ₦150 billion. It noted that Oyo State received one of the least allocations, despite the magnitude of the Bodija disaster.

On transparency concerns, the government explained that intervention funds are treated as capital grants and are processed through standard budgeting and financial reporting procedures, adding that states are not mandated to issue special public announcements upon receipt of such funds.

Reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the Makinde administration cautioned against what it described as attempts by political actors to exploit the Bodija tragedy for partisan advantage. The government thanked residents for their patience and support, assuring them that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the outstanding ₦20 billion to fully address the devastation caused by the explosion.

‎Mr Lawal said the arrested suspects comprised 406 males and 64 females, aged between 13 and 70 years.
‎
‎The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Command in Oyo State on Thursday said it arrested 470 suspects over alleged drug-related offences between January and December 2025.
‎
‎The NDLEA Commander in the state, Adetula Lawal made the disclosure during an interview in Ibadan while highlighting the command’s achievements for 2025.
‎
‎Mr Lawal said the arrested suspects comprised 406 males and 64 females, aged between 13 and 70 years.
‎
‎He said that the suspects were nabbed over alleged possession and dealing in drugs such as cannabis sativa, tramadol, ‘skoochies’, diazepam, ‘colorado’, rohypnol, methamphetamine, pentazocine, bromazepam, cocaine and beverages mixed with cocaine and sativa.
‎
‎The commander added that a total seizure of over three tons of cannabis sativa and other narcotics and psychotropic substance was recorded during the period under review.
‎
‎According to him, 70 of the suspects were charged to court, while 53 were convicted of various drug offences and are serving jail terms ranging from six months to 54 years.
‎
‎Mr Lawal said that a total of 25 drug-addicted persons were admitted to the command’s rehabilitation centre, while 22 of them were rehabilitated and reintegrated into society during the year under review.
‎
‎He disclosed that the command’s patrol team recovered a locally fabricated pistol with a live cartridge from one suspect, and another suspect was found with human parts.
‎
‎He added that the two suspects had been transferred to the police for proper investigation.
‎
‎“The command also gave brief counselling to 768 people whereby 673 are males and 95 are females and as well carried out sensitization programmes on war against drug abuse.
‎
‎“The sensitization programme was extended to 216 schools, 146 communities and some private organisations and participated in different radio and television programs weekly,” Mr Lawal said.
‎
‎The commander thanked the people of Oyo State for their support and collaboration with the command in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the state.

‎

Many passengers are feared dead following a fatal road crash that occurred on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway near the NASFAT junction on Thursday. The accident involved a commercial bus that reportedly ran underneath a moving truck, leading to a devastating impact that left the bus badly mangled.

Eyewitnesses said the crash happened in the early hours of the day when the commercial bus, believed to be travelling at high speed, collided with the rear of the truck. The force of the collision trapped several occupants inside the bus, prompting frantic rescue efforts by passersby before emergency responders arrived at the scene.

Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other security agencies were later deployed to the area to coordinate rescue operations and manage traffic, which was severely disrupted for several hours. Injured victims were rescued and taken to nearby hospitals, while the exact number of fatalities could not be immediately confirmed as of press time.

Authorities said investigations have commenced to determine the cause of the crash, with preliminary reports pointing to possible speeding and poor visibility. Motorists have been advised to exercise caution while plying the expressway and to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to prevent further loss of lives on the busy highway.

Gunmen on Wednesday night stormed the palace of Oba Simeon Olaonipekun, a traditional ruler in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, and abducted the monarch alongside one of his sons. The attack occurred at the Aafin community in the Ile-Ire District, throwing the entire area into panic.

Eyewitnesses said the armed men, reportedly numbering about eight, arrived at the palace around 8:00 p.m., firing gunshots to scare residents. They forcefully broke into the palace and demanded to see the monarch, whom they later dragged away along with his son, identified as Olaolu Olaonipekun, a serving NYSC member.

During the invasion, the monarch’s wife, Olori Felicia Olaonipekun, was shot in the arm while trying to resist the attackers or protect her family. She was later rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment, where she is said to be receiving care.

The incident has been reported to security agencies, including nearby police divisions and local vigilante groups, who have launched a search operation. As of the time of filing this report, the abductors have not made contact, while residents express growing concern over the rising insecurity in parts of Kwara State.

Suspected gunmen attacked Ipele community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State late on December 31, 2025, setting the divisional police station ablaze. The attackers reportedly arrived in a coordinated manner, firing gunshots and causing panic that forced residents to flee their homes and seek safety in nearby bushes.

The attack led to the destruction of police facilities and exhibits, but no deaths were officially recorded. The incident disrupted movement and commercial activities in the area, especially as residents prepared for New Year celebrations.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the attack, clarified that no church was involved, and described the incident as an assault on public peace and security. Security has since been reinforced in the area.

Police authorities say a manhunt for the attackers is ongoing, while residents have been urged to remain calm as efforts continue to restore normalcy.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed optimism that 2026 will mark the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria, citing gains recorded from ongoing fiscal and structural reforms. In his New Year goodwill message to Nigerians on January 1, 2026, the President said the country closed 2025 with measurable economic progress despite global economic challenges.

According to Tinubu, Nigeria recorded consistent quarterly GDP growth in 2025, with annual growth projected to exceed four per cent. He noted improvements in exchange rate stability, sustained trade surpluses, and a steady decline in inflation to below 15 per cent. The President also highlighted the strong performance of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, which posted a 48.12 per cent gain in 2025, as well as the country’s foreign reserves, which stood at $45.4 billion at the end of the year.

The President said investor confidence is returning, as reflected in a sharp rise in foreign direct investment to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025. He added that global credit rating agencies such as Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s have affirmed Nigeria’s economic direction. Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration will consolidate these gains in 2026 while further reducing inflation and expanding fiscal space for infrastructure and human capital development.

On fiscal policy, Tinubu emphasised tax reforms and the need to curb multiple taxation across all levels of government. He said the tax harmonisation agenda will help ease the burden on citizens, raise revenue sustainably, and strengthen the government’s capacity to finance social and economic development. He also reiterated his commitment to fiscal discipline following the presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly.

Addressing security and national unity, the President said economic progress must go hand in hand with peace and stability. He pledged intensified operations against terrorism and criminality, deeper cooperation with international partners, and renewed calls for decentralised policing with safeguards. Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united and patriotic, stressing that nation-building is a shared responsibility as the country moves into a new phase of inclusive growth in 2026.

Former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, has been discharged from the hospital following treatment for injuries he sustained in a road accident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The accident, which occurred earlier this week, sparked widespread concern among fans and the sporting community after reports emerged that the British-Nigerian boxer was involved in a crash while travelling on the busy highway.

Confirming the development on Wednesday, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, said Joshua has responded well to medical treatment and no longer requires hospital admission. According to him, the boxer has been “deemed clinically fit to recuperate from home” by his medical team.

Omotoso assured the public that Joshua’s condition is stable and that doctors are satisfied with his progress, adding that he will continue his recovery under medical observation outside the hospital setting.

Although details of the accident are still sketchy, authorities disclosed that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. No official statement has been issued on whether other vehicles or individuals were involved.

Anthony Joshua, a two-time world heavyweight champion, remains one of the most celebrated figures in global boxing. News of his discharge has been met with relief and goodwill messages from fans across Nigeria and around the world, many of whom have wished him a speedy and full recovery.

Maryam Mahmud, Zoology graduate from the University of Ilorin and Executive Director of Honeyz Depot, the state’s largest honey distributor and operator of Kwara’s only exclusive walk in honey store has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand the company’s honey production operations.

Beyond her executive role, Maryam is also the lead beekeeper, directly managing the production line and ensuring quality at every stage.

Honeyz Depot, which has dominated honey distribution in Kwara State for the past five years, began its honey production line three years ago and is now set to go semi-commercial, targeting 5 tonnes of honey by 2026, with a long term goal of scaling up to 20 tonnes annually by 2030.

Nigeria’s honey market is valued at approximately USD 63.21 million (2024), with demand rising across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. Yet, the country produces less than 10% of its annual honey consumption, creating a large import gap and costing the economy over $2 billion annually in imports.

Speaking on the expansion, Maryam said, “Our walk in store, before temporary shutdown and distribution network have shown the growing demand for quality honey. Now, we are taking the next step, controlling production, ensuring traceability, and scaling responsibly to meet rising market demand.”

Maryam stated that, Honeyz Depot’s production roadmap will combine owned anchor apiaries with a structured outgrower beekeeper network, designed to maintain quality, expand supply, and reduce import dependency. The initiative is expected to create jobs, support rural livelihoods, strengthen pollination services, and foster sustainable growth, not just further solidifying Honeyz Depot’s leadership in Kwara State’s honey market, but also across Nigeria.

Contact:
Phone: +2348165128454
Email: Maryamtoke1995@gmail.com
Facebook: Honeyzdepot_foods
Instagram: honeyzdepot_foods