Oduduwa News

The faction of the (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, , has dismissed the recent judgment delivered by the concerning the party’s convention, describing it as inconsequential and lacking binding effect.

In a statement issued on Thursday, representatives of the Wike-backed group argued that the court ruling does not invalidate the processes leading to the party’s convention nor does it affect decisions already taken by the party’s recognized leadership structures.

The faction maintained that internal party matters, including the conduct of conventions and congresses, remain within the jurisdiction of the party’s constitution and established organs. According to the group, any attempt to rely on the judgment to disrupt preparations or outcomes of the convention would amount to a misinterpretation of both the law and the PDP’s internal guidelines.

“The judgment in question does not in any way nullify the convention or the authority of the party’s legitimate organs,” the statement read. “It is merely being sensationalized by those seeking political advantage.”

The controversy stems from a suit filed by aggrieved party members challenging aspects of the convention process. The Oyo State High Court had reportedly issued orders affecting certain arrangements linked to the exercise, a development that deepened existing divisions within the PDP.

However, the Wike-aligned camp insisted that the ruling neither restrains the national leadership nor overrides decisions of higher courts on party administration. They further emphasized that the party remains committed to upholding due process and democratic principles.

Party stakeholders from the opposing bloc have yet to formally respond to the latest remarks, though insiders say consultations are ongoing on the next line of action.

The internal dispute underscores lingering tensions within the PDP, as competing interests continue to jostle for control of party structures ahead of future electoral contests.

Observers say the unfolding legal and political drama could shape the party’s cohesion and strategic positioning in the coming months.

Ibadan, Oyo State — February 27, 2026

An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has delivered a landmark ruling affirming the legality of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) National Convention held in the city on November 15 and 16, 2025, a development set to reshape the internal power struggle within Nigeria’s main opposition party.

Justice Ladiran Akintola of Court 5 ruled on Friday that the convention was conducted in full compliance with all relevant statutory, constitutional, and party guidelines, dismissing legal challenges that sought to derail the process.

In the ruling, the judge granted all 13 reliefs sought by the claimant, Folahan Malomo Adelabi, who had approached the court through his counsel, Musbau Adetunmbi (SAN), challenging the legitimacy of the exercise.

The court held that the convention, which produced Dr. Kabiru Turaki as the substantive National Chairman of the PDP and ushered in a new National Working Committee (NWC), satisfied all legal and constitutional requirements under the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act.

Justice Akintola also dismissed motions attempting to stay proceedings or join additional parties to the case, describing them as lacking merit, and reaffirmed that no breach of due process or internal party rules occurred during the convention.

Stakeholders in the party have welcomed the judgment as a significant affirmation of internal democracy and judicial independence, noting that it brings clarity to a dispute that has divided the PDP for months.

With the court decision now delivered, the leadership elected at the Ibadan convention is expected to proceed with party affairs and preparations ahead of future elections, though opposition factions have signalled plans to appeal.

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has dismissed claims of electoral victories by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the outcome of last week’s Area Council elections as a “political illusion.”

Speaking at a PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Hashim argued that many of the candidates who emerged victorious on the APC platform were long-standing PDP members who allegedly switched parties under pressure, creating what he termed a false impression of APC strength in the territory.

“In reality, the contest was PDP versus PDP,” Hashim said. “What we witnessed was the deployment of massive resources and state institutions to manufacture the appearance of competition.”

He maintained that the FCT remains a traditional stronghold of the PDP and cautioned party members against what he described as engineered political narratives aimed at distorting the electoral reality in the territory.

Hashim urged supporters to remain united and committed to grassroots mobilisation, stressing that authentic political strength derives from popular support rather than what he called manipulated outcomes.

The meeting drew party chairmen from the six Area Councils, ward chairmen, and members of the State Executive Committee, among other stakeholders.

In a show of solidarity, the FCT PDP Chairman, Alhaji Ismail Mohammed Dogara, moved a motion reaffirming the chapter’s support for Hashim’s 2027 presidential aspiration. The motion was seconded by a member of the PDP Board of Trustees, Honourable Isa Dobi, and received broad endorsement from attendees.

Stakeholders at the meeting also commended Hashim for his support to party candidates before and during the Area Council elections. They called for the immediate release of party members allegedly detained by security agencies, claiming the arrests were intended to influence the electoral outcome.

Political observers say the developments underscore intensifying rivalry between the PDP and APC in the FCT ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both parties positioning to consolidate their influence in the nation’s capital.

Omoyele Sowore has urged new IGP Tunji Disu to withdraw charges and reverse alleged illegalities carried out by former IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
He also called for an end to VIP protection by the police.

Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has outlined what he believes should be the first task of the new Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu.

In a statement, Sowore said the new police chief’s immediate responsibility should be to withdraw all charges and reverse what he described as illegal actions carried out by former IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

He also called on Disu to put an end to VIP protection, arguing that the police force should prioritize the safety of ordinary citizens rather than focusing on protecting political elites and influential individuals.

Sowore’s remarks have sparked conversations online, with some Nigerians supporting his call for reforms, while others say the new IGP should be given time to settle into office.

“The first duty for the new IG of Police, Tunji Disu, is to withdraw all the charges and reverse all the illegalities carried out by Kayode Egbetokun, and to stop VIP protection.

The Acting Inspector-General of Police, , has assumed office as the 23rd indigenous Inspector-General of the .

Disu took over from (Rtd), PhD, NPM, who served as the 22nd Indigenous Inspector-General of Police from June 19, 2023 to February 24, 2026.

Born on April 13, 1966, Disu hails from Lagos Island Local Government Area of Lagos State. He brings to the office over three decades of policing experience, spanning operations, intelligence, investigations, administration, and training.

He joined the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police on May 18, 1992. Prior to his appointment, he served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.

Academic and Professional Background

The new Acting IGP holds multiple academic qualifications, including an MSc in Entrepreneurship from the (2023); an MSc in Criminology, Security and Legal Psychology from (2022); an Advanced Diploma in Forensic Investigation and Criminal Intelligence from (2019); an MSc in Public Administration from (2010); a Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations and Strategic Studies from Lagos State University (2000); and a B.A. in English (Education) from the same institution (1990).

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Disu held several strategic positions, including:

• Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Special Protection Unit (SPU), Force Headquarters, Abuja
• Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command
• Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command
• Commissioner of Police, Administration and Intelligence, Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB)
• Deputy Commissioner of Police and Head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT)
• Commander, Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Lagos (2015–2021)
• Assistant Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, Rivers State
• Officer in Charge, Anti-Kidnapping, Rivers State
• Officer in Charge, Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Ondo and Oyo States (2011–2014)
• Divisional Police Officer in Ondo State
• Directing Staff, Nigerian Police Academy, Kano
• Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to a former Governor of Lagos State

He also served in international peacekeeping, leading the first-ever Nigerian Police contingent to the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) in 2005 to address the crisis in Darfur.

Professional Affiliations and Achievements

Disu is a member of several professional bodies, including the International Academy of Forensics; the National Association of Investigative Specialists (USA); the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR); the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM); and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Beyond policing, he has distinguished himself in sports. He was once National Chairman of the Nigeria Police Judo Association and holds a third-degree black belt in Judo. He won multiple medals, including a silver medal at the 2022 US Open Judo Championships.

Commitment to Reform

In his assumption of duty, the Acting IGP reassured officers, stakeholders, and the general public of his commitment to consolidating ongoing reforms within the Force. He pledged to enhance internal security, strengthen community partnerships, and uphold global best practices in the protection of lives and property.

The Nigeria Police Force expressed appreciation to the immediate past IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, for his contributions to the modernization and strengthening of the Force.

The Force also called for continued public support and cooperation as the new leadership works to deepen professionalism, discipline, and improved service delivery nationwide.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Benjamin Hundeyin, on February 25, 2026, in Abuja.

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has commenced what insiders described as a discreet but far-reaching investigation into some highly placed judges in the country, including heads of courts.

Sources within the council told newsmen that the ongoing inquiry, described as “extraordinary,” was triggered by a series of serious petitions against unnamed senior judicial officers.

The NJC, the constitutional body responsible for appointing, promoting and disciplining judicial officers, is chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

According to insiders, the probe followed what they termed a wave of “damning and disturbing petitions” alleging grave misconduct.

“The allegation against one of the senior judges is so grave that Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun has ordered an urgent probe to identify culpable individuals and cleanse the judiciary,” an official familiar with the development said.

The source added that the investigation is being handled with strict confidentiality and is known only to a handful of insiders.

“I can tell you that the NJC has, in recent times, received several petitions and complaints alleging serious and shocking misconduct, forgery, age falsification and false asset declarations.

“Deeply disturbed by the weight of the allegations, the CJN is mobilising the NJC for urgent administrative action. She does not want these claims to further erode public confidence in the judiciary,” the source said

The identities of the judges under investigation and the petitioners were not disclosed, as officials said they were not authorised to speak publicly on the matter.

When contacted, Tobi Soniyi, Senior Special Assistant to the CJN on Media, referred enquiries to the NJC, stating he had not been briefed on the issue.

Similarly, the NJC’s Deputy Director (Information), Kemi Babalola-Ogedengbe, said she was unaware of any such probe.

Justice Kekere-Ekun had, in September 2025, during the commencement of the 2025/2026 legal year, pledged reforms aimed at promoting judicial excellence, transparency and effective administration of justice.

Earlier, at her swearing-in as acting CJN in August 2024, she acknowledged declining public confidence in the judiciary and vowed to reverse the trend.

Since assuming office, the NJC has taken disciplinary action against several judges.

On November 15, 2024, the council announced the compulsory retirement of two judges, suspended two others for two years and issued a formal warning to another.

Seven investigative committees were also constituted to examine allegations of misconduct.

On June 26, 2025, the NJC compulsorily retired 10 judges, cautioned five others and barred a judge of the National Industrial Court from promotion for three years.

The Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde on Tuesday held a closed-door meeting with the National Leader of the (NNPP), Musa Rabiu Kwankwanso fueling fresh speculations about possible political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The high-level meeting, which took place at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, was conducted behind closed doors, with details of the discussions kept away from the public. However, credible sources hinted that the talks centered on national politics, inter-party collaboration, and strategic consultations ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Though neither camp officially disclosed the agenda of the meeting, political observers believe the engagement may not be unconnected to ongoing consultations among key political actors seeking to reshape alliances before 2027.

Governor Makinde, a prominent figure in the opposition circle and a leading voice within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has in recent times emphasized the need for broader cooperation among like-minded leaders to strengthen democratic governance in Nigeria. Similarly, Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and NNPP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has remained active in national political discourse.

Sources close to the meeting said the discussions were cordial and focused on national development, security concerns, and the economic situation of the country. The two leaders were also said to have explored areas of mutual interest that could foster unity and political stability.

The meeting has since generated mixed reactions within political circles, with some analysts interpreting it as a strategic move toward coalition-building, while others described it as routine consultations between influential political stakeholders.

As of the time of filing this report, no official communiqué had been released regarding the outcome of the meeting.

The development has nonetheless heightened political conversations across party lines, as stakeholders continue to watch unfolding alignments that may shape Nigeria’s political landscape in 2027.

Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, Oyo State, has invited applications from suitably qualified candidates for admission into its Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes for the 2026/2027 academic session.

According to an official statement released by the institution, admission opportunities are available across five faculties, offering a wide range of professional and technical programmes designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills.

Available Faculties and Programmes

Faculty of Communication and Management Studies (FCMS)
Programmes available include HND Accountancy, Business Administration and Management, Journalism and Media Studies, Marketing, Office Technology and Management, Procurement and Supply Chain Management, and Public Administration.

Faculty of Computing Science (FCS)
The faculty offers HND programmes in Computer Networks and Cloud Computing Technology, as well as Software and Web Development.

Faculty of Engineering (FENG)
Available courses include HND Civil Engineering; Electrical/Electronic Engineering (Electronics/Telecommunication Option); Electrical/Electronic Engineering (Power and Machines Option); and Mechanical Engineering with options in Manufacturing and Power/Plant.

Faculty of Environmental Studies (FES)
Programmes under this faculty include HND Art and Industrial Design (Graphics and Textile Design Options), Fine and Applied Art (Ceramics Option), Estate Management and Valuation, and Fashion Design and Clothing Technology.

Faculty of Science (FSc)
Courses offered are HND Library and Information Science, Science Laboratory Technology (Biochemistry and Microbiology Options), and Statistics.

The polytechnic advised interested applicants to visit its official website at www.aope.edu.ng or the admission portal at www.portal.aope.edu.ng for detailed information on entry requirements and application procedures. Enquiries can also be directed to info@aope.edu.ng or admission@aope.edu.ng.

The deadline for submission of HND admission processing information is Monday, April 6, 2026.

The statement was signed by the Registrar, Mrs. Funmilayo Bosede Akintunde, FCAI, FCPA.

Operatives of the in have arrested two suspected kidnappers believed to be members of a criminal syndicate terrorising parts of the state. The police also recovered motorcycles allegedly used by the suspects for surveillance and operational activities.

According to a statement by the state command, the suspects were apprehended following credible intelligence and coordinated security operations targeted at dismantling kidnapping networks across the state. The motorcycles recovered from the suspects were reportedly used to trail victims and monitor movements in vulnerable communities before attacks were carried out.

The Commissioner of Police in the state reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, noting that the arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes. He disclosed that investigations are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the syndicate and recover additional weapons or logistics linked to the group.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely information to security agencies to aid crime prevention efforts. The police assured the public that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, while intensified patrols and surveillance have been deployed in identified flashpoints across the state.

Yoruba nation agitator, , has stirred fresh reactions after publicly declaring his support for President , urging his followers to back and pray for the current administration.

In a statement that has since circulated widely on social media, Igboho addressed critics questioning his decision to praise Tinubu. “The werey (bad person) that queries why I am praising Tinubu, can his father save me?” he said. He admitted that in the past, he had openly criticized traditional rulers and even attacked Tinubu verbally, but stressed that he had since received forgiveness from them. “We abused Obas, I even attacked Tinubu but all of them forgive me. Those are true fathers,” he stated.

Igboho also recounted the painful experience of the raid on his residence, during which his house was allegedly looted. According to him, some of those responsible were individuals who once followed him. “See how my house was looted… those who looted it are my boys who were following me. I thank God I didn’t die, imagine what will happen,” he lamented, expressing gratitude for surviving the incident.

Calling for unity among his supporters, the activist emphasized that anyone who genuinely loves him should continue to support and pray for Tinubu. His remarks have since generated mixed reactions across political and socio-cultural circles, with some praising his conciliatory tone while others questioned his political shift.