Oduduwa News

The Department of State Services (DSS) has raised alarm over an alleged plan by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi states.

In a confidential memo addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, and sighted by our correspondent, the DSS warned of “imminent attacks” and called for increased surveillance across vulnerable areas.

The letter, signed by one H. I. Kana on behalf of the State Director of Security, was titled “Imminent Attacks in Ondo State by Members of ISWAP.”

According to the document, the targeted locations in Ondo State include Eriti-Akoko and Oyin-Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town, headquarters of Owo Local Government Area.

“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon,” the letter partly read. “It was further gathered that the group has commenced surveillance on potential soft targets.”

The DSS urged the Nigerian Army to heighten vigilance and deploy adequate security to forestall any possible attack, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and cooperation.

Confirming the alert, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, said the command was already acting on the intelligence.

“That’s partly why we were in Akoko on Sunday. Everyone is taking steps to ensure no event takes us unaware,” he said.

The warning comes three years after suspected ISWAP terrorists attacked St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo on June 5, 2022, killing 41 worshippers and injuring several others. The suspects are currently facing trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has officially suspended its two-week warning strike, granting the Federal Government a one-month ultimatum to address its longstanding demands.

The decision to suspend the strike was announced following a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held by the union. ASUU leadership emphasized that the suspension is a temporary measure aimed at giving the government time to fulfill its commitments, including resolving issues related to funding for the revitalization of public universities, earned academic allowances, and the deployment of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS).

In a statement released after the meeting, ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, stated, “We are suspending the warning strike to give room for dialogue and to allow the government a one-month period to meet our demands. However, failure to comply within the stipulated time will leave us with no option but to embark on a total and indefinite strike.”

The union expressed concern over the Federal Government’s recurring failure to honor previous agreements and urged all stakeholders to intervene to prevent further disruption to the academic calendar.

Students across the country, who have often borne the brunt of such industrial actions, have expressed mixed reactions—relieved at the resumption of academic activities but wary of future instability.

ASUU concluded by urging its members to remain vigilant and united, warning that it will not hesitate to resume the strike if concrete steps are not taken by the end of the one-month window.

A 36-year-old Nigerian woman, Gbemisola Akayinode, has been arrested and charged with felony murder in Texas after her 9-year-old daughter, Oluwasikemi, died from heat exposure inside a parked car.

The Harris County Sheriff, Ed Gonzalez, confirmed the arrest in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 17, saying the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences ruled the death a homicide caused by hyperthermia.

“Arrest update: HCSO Homicide Detectives and our Violent Criminal Apprehension Team arrested Gbemisola G. Akayinode for the murder of her nine-year-old daughter, Oluwasikemi Akayinode,” Gonzalez wrote. “She is being charged with felony murder and booked into the Harris County Jail.”

According to the sheriff’s office, detectives responded to a distress call on July 1 at an industrial complex on Mayo Shell Road in Galena Park, near Houston, where a 9-year-old girl was found unresponsive inside a vehicle.

Reports said the child was rushed to Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Court documents cited by ABC News revealed that Oluwasikemi had been left inside the car for more than eight hours* on a 99°F (37°C) day while her mother worked at a nearby manufacturing plant.

Investigations showed that Akayinode arrived at work around 5:45 a.m., leaving her daughter in the car with food, a rechargeable fan, ice cubes, and water. She also reportedly gave the child melatonin to help her sleep.

When she returned to the vehicle around 1:53 p.m., Akayinode found her daughter unresponsive and blue, prompting her to raise an alarm for help.

The mother told investigators she had brought her daughter to work several times before because she couldn’t afford daycare. However, court records indicated her supervisor had been paying for her daycare.

Local outlet KHOU11 reported that Akayinode initially blamed her daughter’s death on prescription medicine for ADHD but later admitted giving her melatonin the night before and that morning.

The Daily Mail also noted that Akayinode had left a shade up in the car’s front window, making it difficult for anyone to see inside, while the intense Texas heat built up in the vehicle.

Oluwasikemi’s death was one of four child fatalities linked to hot cars in Texas within the first two weeks of July, highlighting the recurring tragedy of heat-related child deaths in the state.

at peaceful protesters in Abuja who were demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Among the demonstrators was prominent activist Omoyele Sowore.

The protest, tagged #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow, took place near key government buildings. Despite a court refusing a police request to ban the protest, security forces cracked down on the crowd, citing security concerns.

Authorities had earlier warned that protests would not be allowed near sensitive areas like the Presidential Villa and National Assembly. Tear gas was used to disperse the crowd, causing panic and forcing many to flee.

This protest highlights ongoing tensions between civil rights groups demanding Kanu’s release and government efforts to maintain control. Kanu remains detained on terrorism charges despite previous court rulings ordering his release.

Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, has vowed to go ahead with the planned #FreeNnamdiKanu protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, in Abuja, despite warnings from the Nigeria Police Force.

Addressing journalists during a press conference held in Abuja, Sowore stated unequivocally that the protest will proceed as planned. He challenged the legitimacy of police threats and disclosed that he has not been served any court order prohibiting the demonstration.

“I have not received any legal restriction or court injunction against this protest. We have every right under the Nigerian Constitution to peacefully demonstrate,” Sowore declared.

The Nigeria Police, through a statement by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had earlier directed the FCT Police Command to heighten security measures in and around the Federal Capital Territory. The warning was particularly aimed at preventing protests around the Presidential Villa and other key locations, which authorities claim could lead to public disturbance or violence.

Despite the heightened tensions, Sowore remained defiant, insisting that the protest will be peaceful and focused on demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who remains in detention despite various court rulings.

He also criticized the government’s continued crackdown on civil liberties and called on Nigerians to resist authoritarianism and injustice.

“The world is watching. We will not be intimidated. This protest is about justice, human rights, and freedom. It’s not just about Nnamdi Kanu — it’s about the soul of our democracy,” he said.

Security analysts have expressed concerns that the protest could escalate tensions in Abuja, which has witnessed increased security operations in recent weeks. However, civil society groups and pro-democracy advocates have thrown their weight behind Sowore, urging the government to respect the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly.

As October 20 approaches, all eyes are now on Abuja, where the clash between civil liberty and state authority may take center stage once again.

Manchester United ended their nine-year wait for a win at Anfield with a 2–1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday, thanks to an 84th-minute header from captain Harry Maguire.

Bryan Mbeumo gave United an early lead just two minutes into the Premier League clash, slotting home from Amad Diallo’s pass amid protests from Liverpool players, who felt play should have been stopped for a head injury to Alexis Mac Allister.

Liverpool dominated much of the first half but were wasteful in front of goal. Cody Gakpo struck the post three times before eventually finding the equaliser in the 78th minute from Federico Chiesa’s low cross.

Six minutes later, Maguire rose highest to head in Bruno Fernandes’ delivery, securing United’s first league win at Anfield since 2016 and condemning Liverpool to their fourth straight defeat in all competitions.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk described the loss as “disappointing,” admitting his side were “too rushed” in possession and must “stick together” during a difficult period. Mohamed Salah’s goal drought also continued, with the Egyptian now seven league games without scoring from open play.

United manager Ruben Amorim hailed the result as a turning point, saying his players showed “character and discipline” under pressure. The win marked the club’s first back-to-back Premier League victories under the Portuguese coach.

Maguire, named Player of the Match, said the result “means everything,” adding that United had “not given the fans enough days like this” in recent years. “We won’t get carried away, but we’ll use it as motivation,” he said.

The victory lifts Manchester United to within two points of Liverpool, who sit third and four points behind league leaders Arsenal.

The Minister of Power and 2027 governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has sought the support of members of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) and On-Air Personalities (OAPs) towards the actualization of his gubernatorial ambition.

Speaking at a meeting held at his Iyaganku residence in Ibadan, Adelabu emphasized the strategic role of media and entertainment professionals in shaping public opinion and influencing the political landscape. He noted that the development of Oyo State requires a collective effort, which remains a top priority for him.

While addressing attendees, Adelabu clarified that the meeting was not a political rally but an interactive session with key stakeholders. He dismissed widespread perceptions that he is arrogant or inaccessible.

“I’m one of the most accessible politicians in this state,” Adelabu stated. “Some people say I’m arrogant and not approachable — that’s far from the truth. I am not stingy either. Those who have worked closely with me can attest to that. I called this meeting to foster a harmonious working relationship with you, so we can reach our shared goals.”

The Minister urged members of the APC across Oyo State to unite and work together to reclaim power from the PDP in the 2027 elections. According to him, the party’s losses in 2019 and 2023 were largely due to internal disunity.

“We must speak with one voice and avoid actions that can divide us. Unity is the only way we can return to power in 2027,” he said.

Adelabu also called on Nigerians, especially residents of Oyo State, to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC, assuring them that the current challenges would soon give way to positive change.

In their separate remarks, several TAMPAN members and OAPs pledged their support for Adelabu, promising to contribute meaningfully to his campaign efforts.

A highlight of the event was the donation of ₦20 million to support members of TAMPAN and the OAP community.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all students registering for their Ordinary Level (O’Level) examinations across the country.

This clarification follows recent speculations and misconceptions arising from the review of admission requirements by some tertiary institutions, which led to public concern over the status of these core subjects.

In an official statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government emphasized that regardless of the flexibility now being introduced in university admission processes, the foundational importance of English and Mathematics remains unchanged.

“Students must understand that passing English Language and Mathematics is still a non-negotiable requirement at the O’Level stage. These subjects are essential for both academic progression and life skills,” the statement read.

Education stakeholders and school administrators have also been urged to continue preparing students adequately in these subjects and not misinterpret the revised admission policies as a relaxation of core academic standards.

The ministry warned against misleading narratives that may cause students to neglect these key subjects, noting that both WAEC and NECO still list them as mandatory for certification.

The clarification aims to guide parents, students, and schools as registration for upcoming examinations begins, ensuring that academic integrity and national education standards are maintained.

The Presidency and the Nigerian military have jointly debunked widespread rumours of a planned coup, describing the reports as false, reckless, and aimed at destabilizing the country.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, said the Presidency is aware of false claims making rounds on social media about alleged plots within the Armed Forces. He dismissed the reports as “fabricated lies designed to cause panic and distrust in government institutions.”

“There is no coup plot anywhere. The Nigerian military remains loyal to the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu, and to the Nigerian Constitution. Those peddling such dangerous rumours are enemies of democracy and national stability,” Onanuga stated.

Similarly, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in a separate statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, clarified that the recent arrest of 16 military officers had nothing to do with any political conspiracy.

According to Buba, the officers were detained over acts of indiscipline and violations of military regulations, which are being addressed through the established chain of command.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria are professional and apolitical. Any attempt to link routine disciplinary actions to a coup plot is false, mischievous, and should be disregarded,” the statement read in part.

Both the Presidency and the military warned those spreading fake and inciting information to desist or face the full weight of the law, reiterating that Nigeria’s democracy is stable, secure, and not under threat.

They assured citizens that the government remains focused on its developmental agenda, while the military continues to uphold its constitutional duty of protecting the nation’s sovereignty and democratic order.

Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, says the recent wave of defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a distraction from the country’s worsening economic hardship.

Recently, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been hit by a gale of defections, with several prominent members, including governors and lawmakers, leaving the opposition party for the APC and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Peter Mbah, the governor of Enugu, and Douye Diri of Bayelsa, moved to the APC this week.

In his monthly newsletter, released on Thursday, Makinde said the defections have not addressed the country’s prevailing poverty, hunger, inequality, and declining living standards.

“With these defections, political pundits have been busy reading meanings into every handshake and silence. I have watched as our national conversation once again turns to who is moving rather than what is moving,” Makinde wrote.

“For me, the only defection that truly matters is the one that has not happened yet — the defection of hunger. I will only be moved when hunger defects into the APC.

“I meant every word of it because while people are busy changing parties, Nigerians are struggling to afford the basic necessities.

“Families are being forced to make impossible choices daily. These are the real issues, not political realignment.

“We cannot continue pretending everything is fine simply because someone in government says so. What we are experiencing is the widening of inequality. While the rich are adjusting, the poor are sinking — and that is what must command our attention.

“It is hunger, not partisanship, that fuels frustration and hopelessness. Until we deal with that, every political drama will remain a distraction.”

Makinde said every government decision that takes money out of people’s pockets moves them closer to poverty.

“Policies divorced from the realities of hunger, unemployment, and the erosion of dignity are not policies worth defending. My belief is that our politics must serve humanity,” he said.

The governor said the PDP once presided over a period of relative prosperity in Nigeria, noting that the standard of living was not fair at the time.

“Nigerians may disagree on many things, but they remember when salaries had value, when businesses could plan, and when hope was not an illusion,” he said.

He said the task of the PDP members is to rebuild that trust and restore the party to what it should represent — a platform that prioritises people over politics.

Makinde said the PDP national convention in November is an opportunity for the party to “reset and reassert” its values and send a clear message that “we are focused on rebuilding lives, not merely rebuilding structures of power”.

“Let me say this again: no matter what the analysts predict, and no matter how many defections are engineered, it is the Nigerian people who will decide the outcome of the 2027 elections,” the governor added.

“Our job in the PDP is to continue to provide proof that we can deliver relief where others have brought pain.

“The hunger that grips our nation today will not last forever — but only if we, together, refuse to normalise it.”