Oduduwa News

The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 18 suspects in connection with the recent attack on police officers deployed to manage the lingering communal crisis between and Ilobu and Erin-Osun communities.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi , authorities disclosed that 14 additional suspects were apprehended through intelligence-led operations, bringing the total number of arrests to 18. The suspects, who had reportedly gone into hiding after the attack, were tracked and arrested on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.

The police also confirmed the recovery of weapons linked to the incident, including a single-barrel gun, a live cartridge, and a cutlass. The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue, with authorities assuring that all those involved will be prosecuted in accordance with the law while respecting their fundamental human rights.

The arrests follow a fresh outbreak of violence in the affected communities, where hoodlums allegedly attacked police officers who were responding to intelligence reports of a possible clash over a long-standing boundary dispute. The situation escalated when officers deployed to maintain peace came under attack while attending to a distress call in Ilobu.

According to the police, although the operatives initially dispersed the violent group, some youths later regrouped and launched another assault on the officers. One officer was reportedly dragged to the palace of the Olobu, where he was subjected to inhumane treatment before being rescued.

Condemning the attack, Commissioner Gotan has ordered the immediate deployment of an intervention team to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order. The Command warned that additional suspects already identified will soon be arrested and prosecuted.

The police further urged residents of both communities to remain law-abiding and support security agencies with timely information, stressing that any attack on law enforcement personnel will attract the full weight of the law.

A presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has said that reconciliation within the party is still achievable despite the recent National Convention held in Abuja, by a faction backed by Nyesom Wike.

While reacting to developments after the convention, Hashim maintained that the PDP cannot afford to sideline any major bloc within its structure, warning that continued division could weaken its standing as a formidable opposition force.

“Nothing has changed to alter the necessity for reconciliation and unity,” he said.He called on leaders of the contending factions to urgently resume dialogue, emphasising the need to harmonise party structures in line with previous agreements.

Hashim noted that ongoing legal proceedings at the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court provide legitimate avenues for resolving the dispute, adding that a consent judgment remains possible if political compromises are reached.

He further underscored the importance of preserving the PDP’s founding ideals as an inclusive platform, urging stakeholders to prioritise unity over factional interests.

According to him, reconciliation efforts should now focus on resolving structural divisions within the party, including the existence of parallel National Working Committees and conflicting state structures arising from separate congresses.

The PDP has in recent times been plagued by internal wrangling, fuelling concerns about its cohesion and electoral prospects.

However, Hashim expressed optimism that with genuine engagement and political will, the party can overcome its current challenges and restore internal stability.

Tension is rising in the Oke-Ijetu area of Osogbo, as residents have halted the activities of suspected illegal miners operating within the community.

The locals, particularly around Olowookere, opposite Fehintolu Medical Clinic, confronted the miners and demanded to see official approval documents authorizing their operations.

According to residents, the miners failed to provide any valid permits, resulting in further suspicion and outrage.

Community members say they are deeply worried about the potential health risks and environmental damage linked to the mining activities.

They are calling on the Osun State Government and the Nigerian Police Force to urgently intervene, verify the legality of the operations, and protect the wellbeing of residents.

As tensions continue to mount, residents insist they will not allow mining to commence until proper authorization is confirmed and safety concerns are addressed.

There is growing anger among traditional worshippers in Osogbo following the alleged invasion of the revered Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove by some pastors and members of Christ for All Souls Ministry.

The incident, said to have happened around March 10, 2026, has been strongly condemned by the Osogbo traditional institution, who described the act as disrespectful, provocative, and capable of causing unrest in the community.

Speaking through a petition addressed to the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Prince Osunyemi Ifarinu Ifabode, the Baba Oosa of Osogboland, said the individuals unlawfully entered the sacred grove and carried out actions considered offensive to the beliefs of Osun worshippers.

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, which is under the custodianship of the Ataoja of Osogboland, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, is not just a spiritual site but also a UNESCO-recognised heritage location and a protected national monument.

Traditionalists say the actions have sparked outrage across Osogbo, warning that such incidents, if not handled properly, could threaten the peace of the town.

They insisted that the invasion was not only a violation of tradition but also an offence under Nigerian law, including trespass, defilement of a place of worship, and actions likely to cause a breach of peace.

“This is not just about tradition, it is about respect for law, culture, and peaceful coexistence,” the petition stressed.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has donated all his salaries since assuming office to a newly created Armed Forces Welfare Fund as part of activities marking his 74th birthday. The gesture is aimed at supporting members of the Nigerian military and their families.

The President directed that a dedicated account be established for the fund to ensure transparency and proper management. The initiative is expected to cater to wounded soldiers, as well as families of fallen heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Tinubu described the donation as a recognition of the sacrifices and bravery of the Armed Forces, stressing that their commitment to national security must be matched with adequate welfare and support from the nation.

He also called on government officials, private sector players, and Nigerians to contribute to the fund, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in caring for those who defend the country.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is pressing ahead with its national convention under the influence of Nyesom Wike’s camp, despite strong resistance from allies of Seyi Makinde . The Wike-backed leadership has described the convention as crucial to repositioning the party for the 2027 elections and insists all arrangements have been properly concluded.

However, the exercise is taking place amid a deep internal crisis, as the Makinde-led faction rejects the legitimacy of the process. The group has raised concerns over due process and adherence to party structures, warning that the convention could worsen divisions within the party.

The disagreement reflects a broader power struggle over the control and future direction of the PDP. While Wike’s camp views the convention as an opportunity to reset and strengthen party leadership, the opposing bloc believes it undermines internal democracy and party unity.

As tensions continue to rise, political observers warn that the outcome of the convention could significantly impact the PDP’s cohesion and electoral strength. The ongoing rift highlights a critical leadership battle that may shape the party’s chances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibarapaland have openly endorsed the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, for the 2027 Governorship race in the State.

This position was made known during a well-attended PDP Ibarapaland Stakeholders’ Zonal Meeting held in Igboora, Ibarapa Central Local Government Area.

The meeting, convened primarily to deliberate on the planned visit of Governor Seyi Makinde to the zone, quickly evolved into a strategic political gathering where party leaders and grassroots mobilisers assessed the future of the party in the state.

In a strong show of unity, stakeholders passed a vote of confidence on the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin commending his leadership style, loyalty to the party, and contributions to legislative stability in Oyo State.

The endorsement went further, as leaders across the three local government areas in Ibarapaland urged the Speaker to formally declare his intention to contest the governorship election in 2027.

Responding to the overwhelming call, the Speaker appreciated the support and honour given to him by the stakeholders and pledged his readiness to join the governorship race.

Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, described the endorsement as more than a political gesture, noting that it represents a clarion call from his people in Ibarapaland and the wider populace of Oyo State.

He stated that the overwhelming support reflects the collective aspiration for inclusive governance and reaffirmed his commitment to aligning with the yearnings of the people as he steps forward in the race.

The meeting drew an influential mix of party leaders, government officials, and grassroots politicians.

Among those present were Hon. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju (popularly known as Ibarapakan), representing Ibarapa Central/North Federal Constituency ; the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo and the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke.

Also in attendance was Alhaji Kamoru Adeyemi, PDP Chairman for Oyo South Senatorial District, alongside the three PDP Local Government Party Chairmen from Ibarapa East, Ibarapa North, and Ibarapa Central.

The political leadership at the grassroots was fully represented, with the Chairmen of the three local governments, Hon. Kazeem Arogundade (Ibarapa East), Hon. Lateef Akorede (Ibarapa North), and Hon. Olusola Adeleke (Ibarapa Central) all in attendance.

Other notable stakeholders present included Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Hon. Mrs. Funmilayo Orisadeyi, Hon. Moses Ojoawo, Hon. Dimeji Oladapo, Prince Biodun Labiyi, and Barrister Adekanmbi, among others.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, later proceeded to his constituency in Ibarapa East Local Government, where he attended a separate meeting of PDP stakeholders.

At the gathering, party leaders and loyalists reaffirmed their support for his leadership and ongoing consultations, describing his governorship ambition as a reflection of the collective will of the people.

The meeting also served as a platform to strengthen grassroots mobilization and consolidate unity within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A former National President of National Youth Council of Nigeria NYCN, and immediate past Director General of the Oyo State Liaison Office in Abuja and Lagos, Hon. Wale Ajani has formally declared his intention to contest for the Oyo Central Senatorial District seat in the 2027 general elections under the platform of the Accord Party.

In a statement made available to the media, the aspirant said his decision was driven by a long-standing commitment to public service, leadership, and sustainable development across Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

He noted that his experience in public office has adequately prepared him for the task ahead, citing his tenure as Director General of the Oyo State Liaison Office, where he said he delivered impactful service and left a legacy widely regarded as commendable.

The senatorial hopeful also highlighted his leadership role in the National Youth Council of Nigeria, where he earned recognition as “President Emeritus” due to his performance and contributions to youth development nationwide.

Further underscoring his credentials, he referenced his participation in the 2014 National Conference, where he contributed to deliberations on governance, national unity, and the country’s future.

According to him, these experiences have shaped his understanding of governance, public administration, and the pressing need for effective and people-oriented representation at the National Assembly.

He stressed that the people of Oyo Central Senatorial District deserve credible, experienced, and responsive leadership, pledging to deliver purposeful representation if elected.

The aspirant also acknowledged the critical role of the media in strengthening democracy, describing it as an indispensable partner in promoting accountability, informed public discourse, and responsible leadership.

He called on media practitioners to provide fair and objective coverage of his aspiration, assuring that his campaign would focus on issues that directly impact the lives and aspirations of the people.

Reaffirming his commitment to issue-based politics and meaningful engagement, he said his ambition goes beyond contesting elections, emphasizing his desire to offer a new standard of representation that will bring pride and progress to Oyo Central Senatorial District, Oyo State, and Nigeria as a whole.

The 2026 edition of the transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, attracting dignitaries, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond. The annual celebration, also known as Egbaliganza, showcased the rich traditions and identity of the Egba people through a series of colourful events.

Spanning 13 days, the festival featured traditional displays, fashion exhibitions, music, and historical reenactments that highlighted the deep cultural roots of the Egba heritage. The globally recognized Egbaliganza fashion segment stood out, with designers presenting a blend of ancient and modern Egba attire.

A major highlight of the event was the presence of former President , whose participation added prestige and national significance. His engagement underscored the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and promoting cultural heritage.

Organisers and community leaders used the platform to emphasize unity and youth development, urging younger generations to embrace values of hard work and cultural identity. They stressed that the festival remains a tool for reconnecting youths with their roots amid modern societal changes.

Overall, Lisabi 2026 reinforced its status as one of Nigeria’s leading cultural festivals, celebrating the legacy of the Egba hero Lisabi while promoting tourism, cultural pride, and economic opportunities for the host community.