Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has emerged as the preferred presidential candidate of the Accord Party following the successful conduct of the party’s affirmation primaries held across several states of the federation.

The exercise, which recorded a massive turnout of party members and supporters, saw Dr. Hashim secure overwhelming affirmative votes, affirming his position as the party’s standard-bearer for the forthcoming presidential election.

Although he was unopposed going into the primaries, the exercise was conducted to allow party faithful to formally endorse his candidature through a democratic affirmation process.

Results received from participating states as of the time of filing this report showed that Hashim garnered a total of 423,902 affirmative votes.

A breakdown of the votes indicated that Jigawa State recorded the highest figure with 198,200 votes, followed by Kano State with 124,101 votes. Nasarawa State delivered 47,309 votes, while Kebbi State returned 46,852 votes.
Other results showed that Kwara State contributed 3,348 votes, while Lagos State recorded 4,548 affirmative votes in support of the candidate.

Party officials described the exercise as peaceful, transparent and reflective of the confidence members have in Olawepo-Hashim’s leadership and vision for the country.

Speaking after the exercise, supporters hailed the outcome as a strong signal of the party’s readiness to mobilise nationwide ahead of the general election, expressing optimism that the Accord Party would offer Nigerians a credible alternative.

They further described Hashim as a bridge builder capable of healing national divisions across North and South, as well as a unifier across religious lines, noting that his emergence represents a potential platform for reconciliation and national cohesion in a politically fragmented country.

The Council of Fulani Leaders has distanced its members from the growing cases of kidnapping and other criminal activities reported across the Southwest region, insisting that law-abiding Fulani communities should not be unfairly profiled or blamed for crimes committed by individuals.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting, the leadership of the council maintained that the vast majority of Fulani residents in the Southwest are peaceful citizens engaged in legitimate businesses, particularly cattle rearing, farming, and trade.

The council expressed concern over what it described as increasing stigmatization of Fulani communities whenever incidents of kidnapping occur, noting that such generalizations could fuel ethnic tension and undermine efforts to address insecurity.

According to the group’s spokesperson, criminality has no ethnic identity, stressing that security agencies should focus on identifying and prosecuting offenders based on evidence rather than associating crimes with any particular ethnic group.

“We condemn kidnapping and all forms of criminality in the strongest terms. Our people are not involved in these activities, and we remain committed to supporting security agencies in their efforts to ensure peace and security across the Southwest,” the spokesperson said.

The council further disclosed that it has consistently encouraged its members to cooperate with law enforcement authorities by providing useful information that could aid investigations and help apprehend criminal elements operating within various communities.

While acknowledging the security challenges facing parts of the country, the Fulani leaders called on government at all levels to strengthen intelligence gathering and community policing initiatives to effectively tackle kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes.

The group also appealed to residents of the Southwest to continue fostering peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups, emphasizing that unity and collaboration remain critical to overcoming insecurity.

The statement comes amid renewed public concern over incidents of kidnapping in parts of the Southwest, with security agencies intensifying efforts to track down perpetrators and ensure the safety of residents.

The council reiterated its commitment to peace, national unity, and constructive engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies in promoting security and harmonious relations across the region.

A high-powered Federal Government delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Saturday visited Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State to commiserate with families of pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen and to assess ongoing rescue efforts.

The delegation’s visit comes amid growing concern over the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers from schools in Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire, an incident that has sparked nationwide outrage and calls for urgent action by security agencies.

Addressing community leaders, parents, and residents during the visit, Ribadu assured the affected families that the Federal Government was fully committed to securing the safe and unconditional release of all the victims.

He emphasized that security agencies were working round the clock, in collaboration with the Oyo State Government and local authorities, to ensure a successful rescue operation without jeopardizing the lives of the abducted children and teachers.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been receiving regular briefings on the situation and has directed all relevant security agencies to intensify efforts toward bringing the victims home safely.

Gbajabiamila also conveyed the President’s sympathy to the affected families, assuring them that the Federal Government would not relent until every abducted pupil and teacher was reunited with their loved ones.

He urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with credible information that could aid rescue operations.

The delegation met with community leaders, traditional rulers, security officials, and representatives of the affected schools, where they received updates on the incident and ongoing efforts to secure the release of the captives.

The visit followed a similar assurance by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who recently met with families of the victims and pledged that all available resources were being deployed to ensure their safe return. The governor stressed the need for caution and unity, warning against actions that could endanger the lives of those in captivity.

Meanwhile, parents and community members appealed to both the Federal and Oyo State Governments to expedite rescue efforts, expressing fears over the welfare and safety of the abducted children, some of whom are of very tender ages.

The Federal Government reiterated its determination to tackle insecurity across the country and assured Nigerians that those responsible for the abduction would be apprehended and brought to justice.

The abduction, which involved several pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, has attracted condemnation from various stakeholders, including education groups, religious organizations, and civil society bodies, all of whom have called for the immediate release of the victims.

Governor Seyi Makinde has reassured the families of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State that his administration is making every possible effort to secure their safe release.

The governor gave the assurance amid growing concerns over the security situation following the abduction, stating that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, is working round the clock to rescue the victims and ensure they return safely to their families.

Makinde expressed sympathy with the affected families and communities, noting that the incident was deeply troubling and unacceptable. He emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of his administration and assured residents that no effort would be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

According to the governor, intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations are ongoing, while relevant authorities have been mobilized to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims without delay.

He urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could jeopardize ongoing rescue efforts. The governor also called on community leaders and residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid investigations.

Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across Oyo State through sustained support for security agencies, improved logistics, and enhanced community policing initiatives.

The governor further assured the families of the abducted pupils and teachers that the government shares in their pain and anxiety, stressing that the state would continue to engage all necessary stakeholders until the victims regain their freedom.

“We understand the fears and concerns of the affected families. I want to assure them that we are doing everything within our power to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers. We remain committed to ensuring their safe return and restoring peace to the affected community,” the governor said.

Residents and stakeholders have continued to express hope that ongoing security operations will yield positive results and lead to the swift rescue of the victims.

Popular businessman and cancer survivor, , has shared a powerful reflection on the importance of good health, revealing how a serious illness changed his perspective on wealth and material possessions.

Speaking on his life experiences, Oreagba disclosed that he once owned six vehicles, including luxury Range Rovers, before health challenges forced him to reassess his priorities.

According to him, the battle with illness made him realize that material wealth means little when one’s health is compromised.

“When I fell ill, I had six cars in my garage, but now I have only one. I even gave one of my Range Rovers to a staff member,” he said.

The businessman emphasized that while people often worry about numerous challenges in life, a major health crisis can overshadow every other concern.

“You may have 99 problems, but the moment you have a health problem, all your problems become one,” Oreagba added.

His remarks have resonated with many Nigerians on social media, where users praised his honesty and described his statement as a reminder that health remains one of life’s greatest assets.

Oreagba, who gained widespread public admiration for his inspiring appearance at the despite his battle with cancer, has continued to motivate many through his resilience, optimism, and advocacy for cancer awareness.

His latest comments serve as a poignant reminder that while wealth and possessions may come and go, good health remains invaluable. Many observers say his story underscores the need for individuals to prioritize regular medical check-ups, healthy living, and gratitude for life over the pursuit of material acquisition.

Fresh videos released by the abducted teachers, pupils, and principal from Oriire in Ogbomoso vilages have once again exposed the frightening reality of their captivity and the deep dilemma confronting the government and security agencies.

In the heartbreaking footage, the victims passionately appealed to both the Federal and State Governments to avoid any forceful rescue operation, warning that such actions could provoke deadly retaliation from the bandits. Their voices were filled with fear, desperation, and uncertainty as they pleaded for their lives to be spared.

Their location strongly believed to have to been known and surrounded but the collateral damages will be inevitable.

One of the women in the video cried emotionally in Yoruba, “Ẹ ma bawọn já,” meaning “Please don’t engage them in battle.” Her statement reflected the terrifying threats allegedly being issued by the kidnappers that any attempt by security operatives to storm their hideout would lead to the execution of more innocent captives, already Mr M. Oyedokun was slainned few days ago.

The school principal, Mrs Alamu, who also appeared in the video, stated clearly that continued forceful rescue attempts were only worsening the danger facing the victims as the bandits are becoming more violent and impatient. According to her, the kidnappers had already marked another victim to be killed if military forceful rescue pressure persisted. She warned that a gun battle between security operatives and the bandits yesterday resulted in more trouble for them as the victims and more innocent lives maybe lost, particularly the children who remain trapped in the forest.

This development has sparked intense reactions and difficult conversations among Nigerians. Many believe that security agencies already know the location of the kidnappers, trapped the forest but are unable to launch a direct assault because of the high possibility of collateral damage. Unlike technologically advanced nations that may deploy sophisticated intelligence systems and precision rescue strategies, Nigeria’s security realities remain far more complicated and fragile.

By Oduduwa News

Fresh revelations have emerged in the ongoing investigation into a series of kidnappings in Ogun State following the discovery of a bag allegedly used for ransom collection in the kitchen of the arrested Seriki Fulani of Ijebu Ode, 67-year-old Abdullahi Muhammadu.

Muhammadu, a prominent leader of the Fulani community in the area, was recently arrested alongside his eldest son by operatives of the Ogun State Police Command over alleged involvement in kidnapping activities that have terrorized several communities across the Ijebu axis.

According to police sources, investigations led officers to the residence of the community leader, where a bag reportedly identified as one used in the delivery of ransom payments was recovered during a search operation.

Despite the discovery, Muhammadu has maintained his innocence, insisting that he had no direct involvement in any kidnapping operation.

Speaking during interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted that he was aware of his son’s past involvement in criminal activities but claimed he believed the young man had abandoned such acts.

“I knew my son was a kidnapper before, but I thought he had stopped. I never joined him in any operation and I am not part of any kidnapping gang,” he was quoted as saying.

Police investigators, however, are continuing efforts to establish the extent of his involvement and determine whether the recovery of the ransom bag links him directly to the crimes under investigation.

The arrest comes amid growing concerns over rising cases of abduction and insecurity in parts of Ogun State, particularly within rural communities where residents have repeatedly called for stronger security measures.

Security agencies have assured residents that investigations are ongoing and that anyone found culpable, regardless of social status or community position, will face the full weight of the law.

Authorities have also urged members of the public to provide credible information that could aid the ongoing crackdown on kidnapping syndicates operating within the state.

The Ogun State Police Command is expected to provide further updates as investigations progress and more suspects are identified.

The Concern Nigerian Youths for Good Governance (CNYGG) has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful completion of three years in office, applauding his administration’s infrastructural development efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

In a press statement signed by its Convener, Ambassador Mahmud Abubakar, the group described President Tinubu’s leadership as bold, visionary and committed to national transformation, particularly in the area of road infrastructure and economic development.

CNYGG specifically commended the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for what it termed “exceptional leadership and dedication” in repositioning Nigeria’s road infrastructure sector since assuming office.

According to the statement, the Ministry of Works has recorded remarkable progress through aggressive infrastructural policies and the execution of key legacy projects aimed at boosting transportation, commerce and national connectivity.

Among the projects highlighted by the group are the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway Project, the Trans-Saharan Trade Route Corridor initiatives and other strategic economic corridor roads across the country.

The organization noted that the projects are expected to modernize Nigeria’s infrastructure architecture, create employment opportunities, stimulate investments and improve socio-economic activities nationwide.

CNYGG further praised the Ministry for introducing improved monitoring systems, enhanced project supervision and stronger quality assurance mechanisms, which it said have restored public confidence in the nation’s infrastructure sector.

The group also recognized the efforts of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in maintaining and rehabilitating federal roads across the country.

It stated that FERMA has recorded notable achievements in emergency road interventions, rehabilitation of failed highway sections, pothole repairs, drainage maintenance and rapid response to road challenges affecting motorists and commuters.

According to the statement, the agency’s interventions on major federal roads have improved transportation, enhanced road safety and eased economic activities for millions of Nigerians.

While commending the management and staff of FERMA for their resilience and professionalism, CNYGG urged the Federal Government to sustain the current momentum by increasing investments in durable road infrastructure and ensuring timely completion of ongoing projects.

The group also called on Nigerian youths and citizens to continue supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing confidence that the Tinubu administration would deliver greater national transformation and sustainable development in the years ahead.

Hon. Wale Ajani has emerged as the Accord Party candidate for the Oyo Central Senatorial District following the conclusion of the party’s primary election held on Thursday.

The primary process, which was conducted in line with the party’s guidelines and democratic procedures, was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, as well as the Accord State Chairman, Prince Kolade Ojo, the State Secretary, Hon. Yinka Dairo, and other state officials of the party.

The result of the primary election across the state was collated at Zotan Hall, Jericho, Ibadan, where Ajani was formally declared the party’s candidate for the Oyo Central Senatorial seat.

Ajani’s emergence is regarded as a significant development for the Accord Party as it intensifies preparations for the forthcoming senatorial election in Oyo Central.

In his remarks after the declaration, Ajani expressed appreciation to party leaders, delegates, and supporters for the confidence reposed in him, describing the outcome of the process as a reflection of the party’s unity and shared commitment to its political objectives.

He also called on members of the party to remain united and work collectively toward ensuring victory at the general election.

Ajani pledged to offer purposeful leadership and quality representation, while reaffirming his commitment to promoting the interests and aspirations of the people of Oyo Central Senatorial District.

The ancient town of Iseyin witnessed a colourful political carnival and Ileya celebration as loyalists and supporters of the Iseyin/Itesiwaju Hon. Dele Adeola Support Group staged a massive solidarity rally in support of candidates contesting under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

The event, organised amidst pomp and celebration of the Ileya festival, attracted a mammoth crowd of party faithful, youths, women and community leaders who openly declared their loyalty and support for the APM and its candidates ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Speaking through the convener of the forum and lawmaker representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency, Hon. Dele Adeola, the group rallied support for Engr. Seyi Makinde as presidential flagbearer, Hon. Shina Peller for Oyo North Senatorial District, Hon. Shina Oyedeji for the House of Representatives seat representing Iseyin/Kajola/Iwajowa/Itesiwaju Federal Constituency, and Surv. Dasola Adefabi for the Oyo State House of Assembly seat representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju Constituency.

Hon. Adeola used the occasion to shower encomiums on the political moves, strategies and leadership style of Engr. Seyi Makinde, describing him as a visionary leader with the capacity to reset Nigeria and reposition the country for sustainable growth and development.

According to him, the forum strongly believes in Makinde’s vision for national rebirth, expressing optimism that an APM-led administration would bring total transformation to the economy, education sector and, most importantly, security architecture of the nation.

“The vision of Engr. Seyi Makinde to reset Nigeria gives hope to millions of Nigerians. We believe there will be total revamp in the economy, education and especially security if given the opportunity to lead the country,” Adeola stated.

He further reiterated that the APM remains the best alternative political platform capable of delivering good governance and responsive leadership to Nigerians.

The lawmaker disclosed that the forum has already commenced aggressive grassroots mobilisation across communities to ensure overwhelming electoral victory for all APM candidates, including Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi as Governor of Oyo State.

Adeola also reaffirmed the forum’s unwavering support for Hon. Shina Peller, Hon. Shina Oyedeji and Hon. Dasola Adefabi, assuring that the group would work tirelessly for their resounding success at the polls.

The rally featured music, dancing and enthusiastic chants by supporters who described the gathering as a demonstration of the growing popularity and acceptance of the APM across Oyo State, particularly in Oke-Ogun zone.