Oduduwa News

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a stern warning to activist Omoyele Sowore and others planning to mobilise protests over recent demolitions in the state, cautioning that the police would not tolerate any form of public disorder under the guise of demonstration.

Speaking to journalists on Monday at the Iyana-Oworo axis of the Third Mainland Bridge, the commissioner said massive deployments had been made across Lagos to prevent any planned protests that could lead to disruption, warning that the police would deal decisively with anyone who attempted to block highways or disturb the peace.

“We want to warn Sowore and his group to stay away from Lagos or face the full weight of the law,” Jimoh said. “The Third Mainland Bridge is too vital to the Nigerian economy and the safety of lives and property for anyone to think of blocking it.”

The police boss noted that officers had been strategically stationed at key locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Maryland, Ojota, Gani Fawehinmi Park, Gbagada, Bariga, and the Lekki Toll Gate, to maintain peace and public order.

While acknowledging that the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, Jimoh stressed that protests must follow due process and not infringe on the rights of others.

“What we have seen in recent times is not protest but attempts to disrupt public peace. Anyone who engages in such will be dealt with according to the law,” he stated.

Addressing concerns over the recent demolitions in Oworonshoki, the commissioner defended the government’s actions, describing the cleared areas as illegal settlements and criminal hideouts.

He said genuine residents had been compensated and accused some individuals of attempting to exploit the situation for political or criminal gain.

Jimoh assured Lagos residents of continued protection, urging them to go about their daily activities without fear. “Every Nigerian is entitled to protection and safety. We will ensure Lagos remains peaceful, but criminality under the cover of protest will not be tolerated,” he added.

Prominent human-rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has accused the Lagos State Government of demolishing more than 100 properties in the Oworonshoki area despite a valid court order restraining any further demolitions.

In a statement released on Sunday, Falana alleged that the government went ahead with the demolitions “in flagrant breach and contempt of the subsisting court order” after being duly notified. He claims that “over 50 armed policemen and thugs” were mobilised, tear-gassed residents protesting the demolitions through the night, and then commenced a fresh round of property destruction.

Falana stated that the nighttime operation was not authorised by any court and led to the destruction of no fewer than 100 homes. He drew parallels with the 1986 case Military Governor of Lagos State & Ors. v. Chief Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu & Anor., where the Supreme Court of Nigeria condemned the Lagos State Government for defying a court order, noting: “Even under a military regime, the Supreme Court strongly denounced such lawlessness … It is therefore unacceptable for a democratic government to repeat the same act of contempt almost four decades later.”

The dispute centres on a demolition injunction issued by the Adegboyega Balogun-led Lagos State High Court on Thursday, which ordered that the state government, its agents and contractors be restrained from carrying out further demolitions or creating third-party interests over properties located on Ojileru Street, Ososa Extension, and Toluwalase Street in the Itesiwaju Ajumoni Community Development Area (CDA).

Residents of the area had complained they were yet to receive compensation before demolition proposals. The court’s interim injunction sought to halt the demolition until compensation and legal interests were clarified.

The Lagos State Government has not yet issued a detailed response to Falana’s allegations. Lagos Reporters will continue to follow this matter and provide updates on developments in Oworonshoki.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has demanded that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu explain the real reasons behind the sudden removal of Nigeria’s service chiefs, saying the move has sparked concerns about transparency and stability within government.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party noted that while the President has constitutional powers to make such changes, the timing coming amid widespread rumours of an attempted coup makes open communication crucial.

“We acknowledge that the President reserves the power to make such changes as he may deem fit. However, we are somewhat concerned that this change is coming in the wake of widespread rumours of an attempted coup,” the statement read.

The ADC accused the Federal Government of giving confusing responses to the alleged coup reports, stressing that Nigerians deserved clarity, not “deliberate obfuscation and outright confusion.”

It also questioned why senior officers who had served barely two years were suddenly replaced, saying such drastic moves carry “serious implications for stability within the ranks.”

“As an opposition political party, our interest remains the stability of our country and our democracy. In light of developments in our neighbourhood, particularly in Chad and across the Sahel, we are gravely concerned,” Abdullahi added.

The party further warned that the shake-up could heighten public anxiety and fuel more conspiracy theories, accusing the Tinubu administration of being distracted by politics while insecurity worsens.

“We therefore reiterate that the Federal Government must address the issue transparently and reassure Nigerians that our democracy is not under threat,” the ADC said.

The head of the Oduduwa race Worldwide & Permanent Chairman, Southern Nigeria Traditional Council(SNTRC), Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ile-Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Owoade, met in Lagos on Friday to reaffirm unity and peace across Yorubaland.

The historic meeting, held at the Eko Hotel Signature Building, was convened by the Odole-Oodua of The Source, Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, CFR during his birthday anniversary.

In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, both monarchs emphasized their shared commitment to peace, mutual respect, and the advancement of the Yoruba people.

They announced the creation of a Joint Council of Yoruba Unity, a body that will focus on peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic development across Yorubaland.

The Ooni and Alaafin also called for continuous dialogue and collaboration between the two ancient thrones, stressing that the Yoruba race can only achieve greatness through unity and collective progress.

“Today marks a defining moment in our shared history. We are committed to promoting harmony among Yoruba sons and daughters and to upholding the sacred values of mutual respect and brotherhood bequeathed to us by our forebears,” the communiqué stated.

The meeting, attended by eminent Yoruba leaders, traditional rulers, and cultural custodians, focused on strengthening inter-kingdom cooperation and encouraging other traditional rulers to emulate the spirit of togetherness demonstrated by the two monarchs.

In their closing prayers, the Ooni and Alaafin jointly sought divine guidance, peace, and prosperity for Yorubaland, Nigeria, and the African continent at large. The session ended with an exchange of goodwill and royal blessings between the two revered thrones.

Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu, who convened the meeting, expressed joy at witnessing the unity between the two prominent monarchs, describing it as a milestone that would foster peace and progress among the Yoruba people.

The communiqué was signed by the Ooni Ogunwusi, Alaafin Owoade; and witnessed by Sir Dr. Kessington Adebutu. It was issued by Aare Dr. Kola Oyefeso, Secretary of the Communiqué Drafting Committee.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major shake-up in the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in what the Presidency describes as a strategic move to further strengthen the nation’s security architecture and enhance operational efficiency across the services.

According to a statement released on Friday by Mr. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, the President appointed General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), replacing General Christopher Musa.

In addition to the appointment of the new CDS, the President also approved the following changes within the military high command:

Major-General W. Shaibu — appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS)

Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke — appointed Chief of Air Staff (CAS)

Rear Admiral I. Abbas — appointed Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)

Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye — to continue as Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI)

The statement noted that the new appointments take immediate effect, with all newly appointed service chiefs expected to assume their respective offices and begin consultations with key security stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition and continuity of command.

President Tinubu commended the outgoing service chiefs for their dedication and service to the nation, acknowledging their efforts in combating emerging security threats and advancing military professionalism. He urged the new appointees to build on the successes of their predecessors while adopting innovative strategies to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to reforming the defence and security sector, improving inter-agency coordination, and providing the Armed Forces with the necessary resources and leadership support to secure every part of the country.

“Nigeria’s safety, stability, and unity remain non-negotiable. I expect the new service chiefs to demonstrate exemplary leadership, professionalism, and commitment in the discharge of their duties,” President Tinubu was quoted as saying.

The new appointments mark one of the most significant realignments in the nation’s military hierarchy since the beginning of the Tinubu administration.

In a public notice released in Abuja, the ministry listed several properties — including the Africa Regional Centre for Engineering Design and Manufacturing (ARCEDEM) in Olodo, Federal Housing Scheme in Saki, Federal Low-Cost Estate in Idi-Ayunre, Radio Nigeria Property in Basorun, and others — as belonging to the Federal Government and “not for sale.”

However, the Oyo State Government has countered the claim, insisting that some of the affected lands fall under state ownership and are subject to state laws governing land administration.

In its rejoinder, the state government argued that while it respects the Federal Government’s right over its legitimate properties, certain portions of the listed lands have long been integrated into state development plans and are being legally managed under state jurisdiction.

An Oyo State Government spokesperson stated that, “The Federal Government’s blanket claim over all these lands is misleading. Some of them have been duly allocated for state-led projects, and relevant documentation exists to prove ownership.”

The state, however, urged residents to remain calm and assured that the matter would be addressed through proper legal and administrative channels to avoid confusion among property owners and investors.

“We are committed to upholding the law and ensuring clarity on land ownership,” the government added.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders in Oke-Ogun Zone have reaffirmed their total support for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, dismissing recent defections led by Senator Hosea Agboola as “inconsequential.”

In a communiqué issued after a high-level meeting held in Iseyin on October 23, 2025, all ten local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and political appointees in the zone unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Governor Makinde and the Oyo State PDP leadership.

The party leaders praised Makinde for transforming Oke-Ogun through major strides in road infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture, noting that the region has witnessed “unprecedented development” under his administration.

They described the defectors as politicians who “owe their relevance to the PDP” and cannot sway the people of Oke-Ogun, who have benefitted from Makinde’s people-focused governance.

The meeting also pledged total commitment to Makinde’s presidential ambition and vowed to strengthen the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Members of the public have been advised to discountenance a viral post that suggests that oyo state government will tax the populace for social activities such as burial, naming ceremonies and weddings.

In a Release signed by the Commissioner for Information Prince Dotun Oyelade, the post is fake and released for the sole purpose of maligning the government.

According to him, any official Table of this nature will have the Revenue Code for payment of any tax or Levy and must statutorily have the signature of the Chairman of the Oyo state Internal Revenue Board.

None of these conditions have been fulfilled in the viral post.

Equally important is the address which must read OYO STATE INTERNAL REVENUE OFFICE which was clearly absent in the mischievous Post.

The Commissioner for Information advised the public that as the next elections draw nearer, various tactics will be adopted by politicians to misinform them and mar the enviable achievements that Governor Seyi Makinde and his team have embarked upon for the past 7 years

The Commissioner also cautioned bloggers and other news outlets against spreading unverified information, urging them to always verify their stories before putting them in the public domain.

The Students’ Representative Council, SRC, of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, has raised alarm over what it described as a “climate of fear and blood” engulfing the university community following a disturbing rise in armed robberies targeting students.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the student body called for urgent and decisive intervention from the Osun State Government and relevant security agencies to curb what it termed the “reign of terror” being unleashed on Great Ife students.

The council said the latest incident occurred late Monday night at Oreoluwa Hostel in Moremi Estate, where armed robbers attacked students, carting away phones, laptops, and other valuables. Some students reportedly sustained injuries during the attack.

“This is not an isolated occurrence. It is a continuation of a frightening trend that has persisted for far too long, while those charged with protecting lives and property look away in shameful silence,” the SRC stated.

The students accused the state government of negligence, questioning how the security votes allocated to the governor were being utilized.

“We are not unaware that millions of naira are released monthly as security votes to the Governor of Osun State, who doubles as the Chief Security Officer. Yet, the streets of Ile-Ife remain unsafe, and our students continue to bleed. If these funds are truly used for security, where is the evidence?” the statement queried.

The council urged Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Osun State Commissioner of Police, and the Divisional Police Officer of the Moore Division to act swiftly to restore safety within and around the campus.

“Our safety must not be treated as a privilege, it is our right,” the statement emphasized.

The SRC also appealed to the university administration to address the chronic accommodation shortage forcing thousands of students to live off-campus, where they are more vulnerable to criminal attacks.

“Safety cannot be guaranteed when students are left with no choice but to reside outside the university due to inadequate on-campus hostels,” it added.

While commiserating with the latest victims, the student leaders vowed to continue demanding accountability and protection until students can “live and learn in peace once again.”

“We demand action. We demand protection. We demand justice,” the council added.

According to reports and a press release shared by Hon. Adelabu Tunde, the Oyo State Government has introduced an Entertainment Tax Clearance permit aimed at strengthening event compliance and boosting revenue for the provision of social amenities.

The initiative was unveiled at the Western Hall, House of Assembly, Secretariat, Ibadan, where stakeholders, including government officials, NGO representatives, and event centre owners, gathered to discuss how the new permit applies to entertainment activities such as parties, concerts, and weddings.

Hon. Adelabu Tunde explained that while the entertainment tax applies to event organizers, venue owners are encouraged to verify the permit status of clients before hosting events. He assured residents that the generated revenue will support social development across the state.

Addressing public concern, he also noted that, according to the Deputy Director of Internal Revenue, the Entertainment Tax Clearance does not amount to double taxation.

Media outfits such as GMN TV and Greenland World News covered the event, as Hon. Adelabu Tunde, serving as Principal Consultant, responded to stakeholders’ questions and emphasized the need for mutual understanding of the policy.

He urged residents and event stakeholders to embrace compliance with the new permit, stating that cooperation would help drive progress and development across Oyo State.

🎯 Key Highlights

Purpose: Support social amenities through entertainment tax revenue

Scope: Applies to events like parties, weddings, and concerts

Compliance: Encouraged for Oyo State’s development

Clarification: No double taxation (per Oyo State Internal Revenue)