Oduduwa News

The Oyo State House of Assembly has confirmed the appointment of Dr. Babatunde Afeez Adeniyi as the new chairman of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission(OYSIEC)

The state house also confirmed Chief Kunmi Agboola , Mr. Olanrewaju Adeoti Emmanuel, Mr. Sunday Olugbemiga Falana, Hon. Remi Ayoade, Mr. Olatunde Akintunde Theophilus, Mrs . Adebayo Maryam Adepeju and Mr. Babatunde George Ige as OYSIEC members.

Their appointments were confirmed by the members of the Oyo State House of Assembly at Tuesday’s plenary presided over by the speaker of the house, Right Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.

This follows the adoption of the report and recommendations of the House Committee on special duties on the screening conducted for the nominees earlier in the day .

The report presented by the Committee chairman and deputy speaker of the house, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi indicated that the chairman and members responded to all the questions put to them satisfactorily, and found them worthy of the appointments .

Speaking with journalists shortly after the confirmation, the newly appointed chairman, Dr. Babatunde Afeez Adeniyi, said his team would swing into action immediately after the inauguration ceremony.

He noted that the next local government council elections under his watch would be conducted in line with all the electoral laws.

He appreciated the Oyo state governor, Engr Seyi Makinde for entrusting him with the leadership of the commission.

He speaks further:
“We thank the governor of the state, His Excellency , Engr. Oluseyi Makinde for finding us worthy of being nominated as chairman and member.

“We are equally grateful to the Right Honourable Speaker, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin , all the Principal Officers of the 10th Assembly and also the distinguished members of the House for confirmation of the appointment.
“As we are moving forward, we will be looking forward to our inauguration, after the
inauguration, we would swing into action on how to ensure that we are able to conduct the
next election in line with all the laws, and ensure that the sanctity of the election is protected”
” The screening went well, we were cross-examined on our background, education, work experience
and the likes”

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday unveiled the Year 2026 Appropriation Bill, presenting an unprecedented N4.2 trillion budget to the Lagos State House of Assembly. The proposal, christened “The Budget of Shared Prosperity,” aims to accelerate infrastructure development, expand welfare support, and consolidate growth across key sectors of the state’s economy.

According to the breakdown released by the Governor, the budget prioritizes investment in critical sectors to drive inclusive development and enhance the quality of life for over 20 million Lagos residents.

Under the 2026 fiscal proposal, Capital Expenditure accounts for N2.2 trillion, representing 52%, while Recurrent Expenditure is pegged at N2 trillion, or 48% of the total budget. Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the capital-heavy spending plan is designed to boost physical and social infrastructure, stimulate job creation, and promote private-sector participation.

Sectoral allocations include:

Economic Affairs: N1.47 trillion
(Infrastructure, transportation, agriculture, job creation, and economic development)

Health: N338 billion
(Upgrading facilities, health insurance coverage, emergency services, and medical personnel)

Education: N249 billion
(Learning infrastructure, digital education, teacher training, and tertiary support)

Environment: N235 billion
(Drainage systems, climate resilience, waste management, flood mitigation)

Housing: N123 billion
(Affordable home schemes, urban renewal, slum regeneration)

Public Order and Safety: N147 billion
(Security operations, LASTMA, emergency response, justice system support)

Social Protection: N70 billion
(Vulnerable support, welfare interventions, youth and women empowerment)

Recreation: N54 billion
(Parks, cultural projects, sports facilities, and tourism development)

Governor Sanwo-Olu described the financial blueprint as a strategic roadmap to expand opportunities and deliver tangible benefits to residents. He noted that the budget reflects Lagos’ ambition to sustain its economic leadership while providing equitable access to development.

With the mega–budget now before the Assembly, lawmakers are expected to begin sectoral reviews, stakeholder engagements, and public hearings before final passage.

Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor proceedings at the Lagos Assembly and provide updates on reactions, implementation strategies, and potential impact on residents.

Governor Dapo Abiodun says Ogun State is adopting new security measures following rising insecurity across the country. After a security meeting in Iperu, he announced that the government will begin documenting foreign nationals working with multinational companies, while new non-indigenes entering the state will undergo screening by community leaders to verify their purpose and means of livelihood.

The governor revealed that about 70 undocumented foreigners from Niger, Chad, and Sudan were recently arrested after failing to explain their presence in Ogun. He said they will be processed by the Nigeria Immigration Service, and urged non-indigene communities to be more vigilant.

Abiodun also raised concerns over the activities of scavengers and scrap dealers, describing them as emerging security threats. He directed law enforcement agencies to monitor their operations closely and clear out criminal hideouts such as “Zanga” in Ijebu-Ode. He warned that any property used by criminals will henceforth be seized by the government.

The governor addressed illegal mining and movement through forest reserves, noting that some miners operate as miscreants. He assured that the state is working with security agencies to secure forests, mining sites, and settlements like the one at Ajebo in Obafemi-Owode.

He called on residents to support community policing by reporting suspicious activities and urged traditional rulers to stop allocating land to strangers, warning that defaulters will be held responsible. Abiodun praised security agencies for their cooperation and commended President Bola Tinubu for ongoing national security efforts and recent successful rescue operations in Niger and Kwara states.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has revealed that he was so provoked by former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s remarks at his 65th birthday celebration that he momentarily felt like grabbing the microphone and hitting him with it.

Fayose, who spoke in a recent interview, narrated the behind-the-scenes events that led to the tense exchange between him and the former president at the Lagos event.

According to him, two weeks before his birthday, he made a personal decision to reconcile with several political figures he had fallen out with over the years — and Obasanjo was one of them. Despite his effort to extend an olive branch, Fayose said the former president’s comments at the ceremony “touched a nerve.”

During his speech at the event, Obasanjo had revisited their long-standing political rift, stating that while Fayose achieved notable political success, he was “not the best” among his protégés. The remark reportedly triggered a wave of emotions in the former governor.

Fayose, however, said he composed himself, choosing maturity over confrontation and allowing the ceremony to continue without disruption. He added that regardless of past differences, he remains committed to making peace with his former adversaries.

Governors from the South West are currently meeting in Ibadan for an emergency closed-door session convened to address escalating security concerns and other urgent regional issues.

The high-level gathering, hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde at the Governor’s Office, Agodi, brings together leaders from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti States.

Although the full agenda has not been disclosed, sources indicate that the meeting was triggered by growing security threats across the region, prompting the governors to review collective strategies, fast-track key development initiatives and strengthen cooperation under the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN).

The governors are also expected to evaluate ongoing joint security operations, especially the activities of the Amotekun Corps, amid emerging challenges and the need for a more coordinated regional response.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Thursday presented a total budget of ₦891.98 billion for the 2026 fiscal year, describing it as a strategic blueprint aimed at accelerating infrastructure expansion, strengthening human capital, and deepening economic growth across the state. Tagged the “People-Centred Prosperity Budget,” the proposal reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainability, fiscal discipline, and inclusive development.

Presenting the Appropriation Bill before the Oyo State House of Assembly, Governor Makinde disclosed that the budget is composed of ₦389.34 billion for recurrent expenditure and ₦502.65 billion for capital projects. The governor emphasised that the spending plan prioritises ongoing infrastructure projects, expansion of education and health facilities, agricultural development, and programmes that would ensure long-term economic resilience.

The personnel cost for 2026 stands at ₦156.38 billion, with overhead at ₦122.21 billion, and other recurrent commitments at ₦110.84 billion, bringing the total recurrent expenditure to ₦389.34 billion. Capital expenditure—which takes the largest share—was pegged at ₦502.65 billion, reflecting the administration’s sustained investment in roads, energy, and other long-term assets critical to economic stability.

A detailed sectoral breakdown shows that Infrastructure receives the highest allocation with ₦210.02 billion (23.5%), followed by Education with ₦155.21 billion (17.4%), Health with ₦70.85 billion (7.9%), and Agriculture with ₦19.99 billion (2.2%). Other multi-sectoral allocations collectively amount to ₦435.91 billion, representing 48.9% of the total budget. Makinde noted that these proportions underline his administration’s data-driven approach in directing resources to areas with the highest social and economic return.

Governor Makinde assured lawmakers and residents that the 2026 budget was crafted to consolidate gains recorded across sectors since the beginning of his administration. He added that his government remains focused on delivering “a modern, safe, and economically vibrant Oyo State powered by innovation, productivity, and inclusiveness.”

The Appropriation Bill is now before the Oyo State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to take firm and decisive action following the recent wave of attacks and killings reported in different parts of the country, assuring Nigerians that his administration will not allow criminal elements to undermine national stability.

In a strongly worded statement on Saturday, the President lamented what he described as a “corrosion of security, a collapse of communal ethics, and a distortion of the moral compass that once held our communities together.” He said the troubling incidents are a reminder of the urgent need for collective responsibility and stronger security architecture across all levels.

Tinubu noted that the government is already reviewing intelligence reports and security strategies to ensure a swift and coordinated response, adding that service chiefs and heads of security agencies have been directed to intensify operations in volatile zones.

“We cannot stand by while innocent citizens are attacked, while communities are thrown into mourning, and while the peace that binds us is threatened,” the President said. “Those who perpetrate violence will face the full weight of the law. Nigeria must remain a place where every life is valued and protected.”

He also urged traditional rulers, local leaders, and community influencers to work closely with authorities in restoring trust, strengthening early-warning systems, and discouraging acts of retaliation that often escalate crises.

Tinubu extended his condolences to families who have lost loved ones, describing the killings as “senseless, heartbreaking, and unacceptable,” and reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding every Nigerian.

“The moral fabric of our society must be rebuilt,” he said. “We must resist fear, reject hatred, and commit to peace. My government will act — decisively and without hesitation.”

Presidential hopeful and businessman, Gbenga Hashim, has paid a moving tribute to the late Segun Awolowo, former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and grandson of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

In an emotional statement titled “Good Night My Brother and Friend, Segun Awolowo,” Hashim said news of Awolowo’s passing reached him while he was in Madrid, leaving him “shocked and unsettled.” He explained that the reports initially came in quietly, prompting him to reach out to close associates for confirmation.

Hashim said his first call was to Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, a mutual friend of more than two decades. Still uncertain, he contacted businessman Terry Waya, who confirmed the tragic news. He also attempted to reach members of the Awolowo family, including Funke Awolowo, and later spoke with Mr Edward Dickson, Managing Director of Tribune, who further validated the loss.

The late Segun Awolowo, he noted, was part of a close-knit circle of Abuja friends—an inner circle that spanned 26 years and included Abdulrazaq, Waya, and the late Abdul Kokori.

Hashim recalled visiting Awolowo in Abuja only months earlier, where he found him lively and full of plans, even proudly introducing him to his senior management team. In what he now considers a final parting charge, Awolowo had told him: “Gbenga, please keep standing for Nigeria. Among all of us, you’re the one I know has the capacity to stand.”

Describing him as “a rare gem, humble, thoughtful, and deeply patriotic,” Hashim said Awolowo distinguished himself through hard work, public service, and a strong personal ethic, far beyond the weight of his famous surname.

He added that their friendship was grounded in deep conversations and moments of prayer, which Awolowo always valued. “I am grateful for the gift of friendship we shared and pained that it ended too soon,” he wrote.

Hashim ended his tribute with a solemn farewell: “Good night, my brother and friend. Rest well, Segun.”

Segun Awolowo’s passing has continued to reverberate across political, business, and social circles, with tributes pouring in nationwide.

Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has raised an alarm over what he described as a coordinated plot by terrorists and bandits to launch major attacks across the South-West. According to him, credible intelligence indicates that Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Lagos States are the primary targets of the planned assaults. He warned that recent violent incidents in Kogi and Kwara should be seen as preliminary “tests” by the attackers before moving their operations deeper into the region.

Adams explained that the suspected terrorists have reportedly set up bases in forests across several states, including Kogi, Kwara, Ekiti, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Edo, and Delta. He described the emerging threat as serious and capable of destabilising the peace and security of Yoruba land if not addressed urgently. He stressed that the situation requires heightened vigilance from both residents and authorities.

He expressed frustration with South-West governors, accusing them of ignoring his previous warnings and proposals for a unified security strategy. According to him, a comprehensive South-West Security Summit should have been convened long ago to bring stakeholders together and develop coordinated solutions. He noted that his efforts to engage regional leaders on security concerns have not been given due attention.

Adams said the consequences of inaction are already being felt, citing reports of rape, farmers being driven from their lands, kidnappings, and widespread insecurity linked to these criminal elements. He warned that if security agencies and regional leaders fail to take decisive action, the criminals may soon move from forest hideouts to urban centres, resulting in more severe attacks.

He concluded by calling on traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders, and residents to unite and adopt a proactive response. Adams urged Yoruba people to set aside differences and work collectively to protect their land, insisting that only a coordinated regional strategy can prevent the looming danger.

South-West leaders have renewed their push for a homegrown, technology-driven security framework as insecurity worsens across Nigeria. At a regional security gathering, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other key stakeholders emphasized that traditional methods are no longer sufficient to combat increasingly sophisticated criminal threats.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the need for advanced surveillance tools, intelligence-led operations, and faster response mechanisms. He noted that the region must embrace modern technologies—such as drones, digital communication systems, and data-driven monitoring—to strengthen safety and protect critical infrastructure.

Stakeholders also highlighted the importance of enhancing the Amotekun Corps, describing it as the backbone of the region’s community-based security efforts. They agreed that Amotekun requires stronger inter-state coordination, upgraded equipment, and improved training to match evolving security demands.

A central issue discussed was the longstanding call for state police. Leaders argued that decentralizing policing will enable quicker intelligence gathering and more culturally aware policing. They maintained that local officers are better positioned to respond swiftly to threats, especially in rural communities where insecurity is spreading.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of a Regional Technology-Driven Security Framework, which focuses on digital monitoring, synchronized operations, and legislative advocacy for state policing. Leaders assured residents that implementation would begin immediately to ensure a safer, more resilient South-West region.