The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle Don of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner of the keenly contested Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election.
The declaration was made at the Ibadan North Collation Centre, Ikolaba High School, by the INEC Returning Officer, Professor Abiodun Oluwadare of the University of Ibadan.
According to the official results, Hon. Folajimi Don secured a resounding 18,404 votes, defeating his closest rival, Hon. Adewale Olatunji Murphy of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 8,312 votes—a wide margin that has sent ripples across the political landscape.
With this emphatic victory, Hon. Oyekunle Don will officially replace the late representative of Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Musliu Olaide Akinremi (Jagaban), whose passing necessitated the bye-election.
Political observers and party loyalists have hailed the PDP’s landslide victory as a strong testament to the party’s renewed popularity and the people’s confidence in its leadership.
This triumph also marks a historic return for the PDP, as the party has successfully reclaimed the federal constituency seat for the first time since 2011.
Following the declaration, jubilant supporters took to the streets of Ibadan North in celebration, describing the outcome as a “coast-to-coast victory” and a clear indication that the PDP remains the party of the people in Oyo State.
The victory further consolidates the PDP’s dominance in the state, aligning with Governor Seyi Makinde’s enduring legacy of good governance, which many believe played a major role in boosting voter confidence in Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle Don.
The sorting and counting of votes have officially commenced at the University of Ibadan various polling units for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election.
According to our correspondent who visited the scene, it was observed that officials of INEC have started sorting and counting.
The Ibadan North bye-election is being keenly contested following the vacant seat in the House of Representatives, and residents of the constituency await the outcome with great interest.
The ongoing by-elections in Oyo and Ogun states have been marked by contrasting scenes. In Ibadan North Federal Constituency, the exercise recorded low voter turnout despite early arrival of electoral materials and heavy security presence.
INEC deployed over 2,000 officials and 574 BVAS machines across 512 polling units, with five major parties and an SDP candidate—added by court order—on the ballot.
In Ogun State, the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency by-election witnessed a peaceful and orderly process, with Governor Dapo Abiodun praising INEC for its preparedness.
Though opposition parties earlier alleged intimidation during campaigns, the voting exercise so far has been calm and widely commended.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed its readiness for the bye-elections scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025, in Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Oyo State, and the Remo/Ikenne/Sagamu Federal Constituency in Ogun State. Sensitive election materials, including ballot papers and result sheets, have been received from the Central Bank of Nigeria and are being distributed under heavy security to local government offices and wards.
In Ogun State, INEC deployed 2,445 ad hoc staff after a series of trainings and moved both sensitive and non-sensitive materials to the three participating local governments. Security agencies and representatives of political parties witnessed the distribution to ensure transparency, while the Ogun Police Command announced a restriction of movement on election day to maintain peace.
In Oyo State, the commission confirmed the receipt of sensitive materials such as EC forms and result sheets. Plans have been made with transport unions for smooth logistics, while work centers have been activated to ensure timely deployment to polling units. INEC also noted that a peace accord was signed by political parties and candidates to promote a violence-free exercise.
Both Oyo and Ogun INEC offices reiterated their commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections. They assured voters that adequate security arrangements have been made in collaboration with security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).
With materials in place, trained officials deployed, and security strategies mapped out, INEC has expressed full readiness for Saturday’s polls, urging all stakeholders to play their part in ensuring credible outcomes in both bye-elections.
Panic gripped parts of Ibadan on Friday night following a fire outbreak at Fresh FM, one of the city’s most popular radio stations.
The incident was first made public by Samuel Ibikunle Arugbobois via Facebook, where he urged residents to alert the nearest fire service. His urgent post, which quickly spread across platforms including Connect Ibadan, read: “Fresh FM is currently on fire! We urgently need the Fire Service to respond immediately. Please spread the word and alert the nearest station.”
As at press time, the extent of damage and any possible casualties remained unconfirmed. Emergency officials had yet to release an official statement, but eyewitnesses and social media users continued to raise alarm and call for swift action to contain the blaze.
Fresh FM, founded by veteran musician and broadcaster Yinka Ayefele, is widely regarded as one of the most listened-to radio stations in Ibadan and across the South-West, celebrated for its blend of news, music, and entertainment.
The Oyo State House of Assembly has charged Chairmen of 33 Local Government Areas across the State to look inward for other means of improving their Internally Generated Revenue.
They were also advised to prioritize Grassroots Development in their domains.
Hon. Akintunde Olajide, representing Lagelu State Contituency, who also doubles as the Chairman House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters, and State Honours gave this charge during his closing remarks on the just concluded Oversight Visit to the Local Government and Local Council Development Areas across the State.
The Committee Chairman made it known that the State Assembly Oversight Visit to the Councils was aiming at ensuring effective governance, transparency, and accountability at the grassroots level.
“The Statewide Oversight Visit to all Local Government Areas ( LGAs ) and LCDAs is aimed at assessing the performance of Council Administration, evaluating revenue generation strategies, and inspecting developmental projects executed in various communities.”
“We are committed to ensuring that funds allocated for grassroots development are judiciously utilised in line with the Assembly’s constitutional responsibility to enhance accountability, and effective use of public resources.”
“The Oversight Visitation is part of the Assembly’s effort to strengthen Local Government and ensure the delivery of quality services to the public. The Assembly remains committed to working with LGAs and LCDAs to drive development and progress in Oyo State.”
He stressed the importance of regular Oversight Visitation by the House of Assembly to ensure adequacy in Local Government Administration. “The House must always engage with local government through Oversight Visitation to monitor their activities, identify challenges, and provide necessary support to enhance their performance.” He added
Hon. Olajide emphasized the need for Council Chairmen to focus on delivering meaningful developmental projects, ensuring functional Primary Health Care facilities, and other welfare of their local communities.
“Local Government remains the closest tier of Government to the people, and it must be felt through visible, impactful and sustainable projects that will yield long – term benefits for their people.”
“The Oversight teams which were divided into three groups have been visiting all LGAs and LCDAs across the State, inspecting both completed and ongoing projects, reviewing Internally Generated Revenue, records, and engaging community stakeholders to gather first hand feedback on governance at local level.” He stated
Hon. Olajide assured that the State Government will continue to invest in the capacity building of Council workers, noting that training and retraining programmes will be organised to equip them with necessary skills and knowledge to deliver quality services to the people.
In their various reactions, the team lead for the three Senatorial Districts in the State, Hon.Olusola Owolabi, Oyo North, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, Oyo South and Hon. Dele Adeola, Oyo Central noted that the Council Chairmen must intensify efforts in aligning their activities with the vision of the State Governor and working towards achieving common goals that benefit the people.
“The Council Chairmen must enhance the State Government’s performance on infrastructural facilities and ensure that people at the grassroots also benefit from dividends of democracy as this would help to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas, promote inclusive development and improve the quality of life for all citizens.”
The team leaders also encouraged the council bosses to intensify efforts in proper documentation, accountability, and adequate performance in line with the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Administration.
“The State Assembly remains committed to collaborating with council Chairmen to enhance governance and service delivery, ultimately improving the lives of Oyo State residents. ” The team leaders concluded
In their separate reactions, the Chairman, Egbeda Local Government, Comrade Sikiru Sanda, who is also the ALGON Chairman, his counterparts from Iwajowa local government, Comrade Oyewumi Muritala, and Atisbo Local Government , Mr. Olumuyiwa Alade Commended Governor Seyi Makinde for creating a platform for all inclusive government and appreciate his efforts in striving for the best State of the Pacesetter amongst its equal.
They described the Oyo Assembly Oversight functions as a welcome idea that will gear them up to act on their calls and give back to their local communities as expected and promised while getting their mandate.
Ondo State has been thrown into tension following two separate kidnapping incidents that have rattled residents and heightened security concerns.
In the first incident, police operatives have arrested seven suspects in connection with the abduction of Mr. Omoniyi, a lecturer and faculty officer at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), on August 4, 2025.
The suspects include 45-year-old commercial motorcyclist Benson Alaba, alleged to have monitored the victim’s movements and lured him into the gang’s trap. Also in custody is Ogungbemi Wasiu, 42, who allegedly supplied the handset used to demand ransom from the victim’s family. Other arrested gang members are Audu Shaibu (25), Ismaila Abdullahi (24), Nuru Bature (18), Usman Baba (20) and Yusuf Muhammed (23).
Police investigations revealed that the trusted motorcyclist had frequently conveyed the lecturer to work and visited his home on the day of the abduction under the guise of borrowing a phone. The gang allegedly demanded between ₦5 million and ₦7 million before the lecturer’s release. The victim is currently receiving treatment at the university’s health centre.
Meanwhile, in a separate attack on the night of August 14, suspected kidnappers stormed Ayede Ogbese in Akure North Local Government Area, killing a 34-year-old man identified as Okudili Okoro and abducting a woman, Mrs. Orogun. Witnesses said the gunmen, numbering about 10, arrived in unregistered vehicles and shot sporadically before whisking the victim away.
Ondo State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the assailants, urging residents to remain vigilant and provide useful information to aid investigations.
Authorities have also warned against spreading unverified information, stressing the importance of relying on official security updates.
The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Yoruba actor, Segun Remi, widely known by his stage name, Chief Kanran.
The actor reportedly passed away on the morning of Friday, August 15, 2025, although the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. The news was confirmed by filmmaker and celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi in a social media post.
Chief Kanran, whose career spanned over four decades, was celebrated for his unique acting style, commanding stage presence, and memorable comedic delivery. He began his acting journey in the 1970s, first earning acclaim on stage with roles such as Kurunmi in Ola Rotimi’s historical play. His breakout television role came in 1988 when he portrayed the Alaafin Kanran on Lagos Television — a performance that earned him his popular nickname.
Over the years, Segun Remi featured in numerous Yoruba films, including Vigilante, Ose-Sango, Eri Okan, Itunnu, Eewo, Idunnu, Orire, Ofa Oro, Ajaka Oko, Great Bird of Eternity, Shattered Bridge, Oba Oluaiye, Bibi Ire, Ilu Le, and I50 Million.
Tributes have begun pouring in from colleagues and fans. Actor Yemi Solade expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Chief Kanran as “a giant of the stage and screen whose craft will continue to inspire generations.”
Segun Remi is remembered not only for his artistry but also for his enduring contribution to the Yoruba film industry. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
Christ Apostolic Church CAC has slammed COZA’s Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo for calling Apostle Ayo Babalola a poor man.
They described him as a prosperity pastor exploiting the alter, monetizing spiritual gifts and promoting corruption in an already morally decaying society. Yet, in same stroke, lectured him.
Last month, Fatoyinbo was teaching on why poverty could hinder a person’s ability to fully serve God.
Asking his congregation to focus, make money, so they they will be able to fully express their ministry. Because poverty kills ministry.
Then he hailed and in same breath said Apostle Babalola died poor, and his kids are no where. So, poverty kills ministry.
CAC in reaction added that, Babalola was not a poor man. As he drove the best cars, funded alot of people through education, businesses, skills, weddings etc.
And if he died a poor man as Fatoyinbo suggests, why did Queen Elizabeth II honor him in 1956, if he wore rags. Accordingly, his kids are old enough to be Fatoyinbo’s grand parents and 66yrs later, Babalola continues to impact lives.
They querried Fatoyinbo’s knowledge of the Bible. As his utterance goes against several teachings of the Bible itself. Reminded him that the measure of anointing is not in material wealth. And most of all, prayed wisdom for him.
Nigerians are in a split. Some feel CAC’s reply was unnecessary, as it only validates Fatoyinbo, and ignoring would have been better. Others thought the response was perfect and timely.
Babalola’s eldest daughter, Mama Ogini also responded to Fatoyinbo.
Tensions are mounting in Ibadan North Federal Constituency as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) exchange verbal salvos ahead of Saturday’s by-election.
In a series of statements released on Wednesday, both parties accused each other of plotting to manipulate the electoral process. The APC alleged that the PDP-led Oyo State government was deploying state resources and influence to intimidate voters and sway the outcome in its favour.
Responding, the PDP dismissed the claims as baseless, accusing the APC of desperation and attempting to discredit the electoral process ahead of the polls. The ruling party insisted that its track record in the constituency would earn it a convincing victory without resorting to malpractice.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured residents that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure a free, fair, and credible election. Security agencies have also pledged to maintain peace and order before, during, and after the vote.
The Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the death of its former representative, and political activities in the area have since intensified as both major parties rally supporters for what promises to be a keenly contested race.
