Oduduwa News

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)

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.