Oduduwa News

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.”

Nigerian singer and songwriter Tiwa Savage has said she is open to becoming a second wife, revealing that most of her potential suitors are either much older or already married.

Speaking on a recent episode of the American podcast Lip Service, which began trending on Friday, the Afrobeats star said she has reached a stage in life where her dating options are limited.

“I’m like a sugar mama, but I don’t want to be. If I meet somebody who can really marry me, they are either in their 50s or already married. So, I don’t know. Maybe I can be a second wife,” Savage said. “I think so. I could be a second wife.”

The award-winning singer added that she would not be a difficult co-wife, stressing that she values peace and mutual respect in relationships.

“I think I can get along with the first wife and she’s going to love me because I’m not going to be troublesome,” she said. “I’m going to be going on tours, I’m not really going to stress you. I’m very respectful, I know that you are the first wife and would accord you that respect.”

Savage, a mother of one, was previously married to music executive Tunji Balogun, popularly known as TBillz. The pair tied the knot in 2013 and divorced in 2018. Their union produced a son. Both parties later accused each other of infidelity following their separation.

The 2027 presidential race took a defining turn on Friday as stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State formally endorsed Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim for president, declaring that the era of “politics of entitlement” is over.

The endorsement, made under the aegis of the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement (GHSM), positions Ogun as the epicenter of a growing South West political reawakening, a wave that has already gained traction across Osun, Lagos, Ekiti, Ondo, and Oyo States.

Speaking after the adoption, Hon. Gbenga Idowu, State Coordinator of GHSM, described Hashim as “the bridge between the North and South” and “the most competent and credible alternative to the failed APC leadership.”

“President Tinubu has failed both Nigeria and the South West. What he promised as renewal has turned into national ruin. Inflation is at its worst, insecurity has deepened, and the people are hungry,” Idowu declared.

He added that, Ogun is joining the rest of the South West to say enough is enough. It was here that Tinubu once said ‘Emilokan’ and God permitted it. Today, we are saying, ‘Baba, eti ja wa kule. Ni 2027, Gbenga ni o má gbe wa ga’, meaning, the feast is over; it is Gbenga who will lift us higher.”

The stakeholders hailed Hashim’s comprehensive $4 trillion economic blueprint, which emphasizes industrial expansion, energy reform, agricultural value chains, and youth employment as pillars for national rebirth.

They also praised his integrated national security plan, which combines intelligence coordination, defense reform, and community policing to tackle insecurity holistically.

“Gbenga Hashim has a plan, not slogans. While others trade in political catchphrases, Hashim offers leadership with depth, clarity, and vision,” Idowu asserted.

The Hashim wave is already resonating across the South West, with similar endorsements emerging from PDP stakeholders and grassroots coalitions in Osun, Oyo, Lagos, and Ekiti, signaling what political observers describe as a “South West PDP rebirth” anchored on Hashim’s leadership.

“Gbenga Hashim is not in politics for ego or profit,” Idowu emphasized. “He is here for purpose to unite our nation, reform our economy, and restore the dignity of governance.”

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a founding member of the PDP, businessman, and former presidential candidate, has in recent months emerged as a formidable national contender ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Political analysts say Ogun’s endorsement marks a major shift in regional dynamics and could reshape South West politics in the countdown to 2027.

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.

The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.

It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary. This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.
This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.

The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.

There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.

The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.

It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary. This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.
This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.

The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.

There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.

There was confusion at an Area Court sitting in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Thursday, when a woman identified as Mulikat Yusuf suddenly slumped after her husband, Ishaq Abdulganiyu, insisted on ending their marriage.

The incident occurred during a heated divorce proceeding in which Abdulganiyu told the court he could no longer continue with the union, citing irreconcilable differences. According to eyewitnesses, the woman, who appeared visibly emotional throughout the session, fainted the moment her husband maintained his stand despite pleas from relatives and court officials for reconciliation.

Court attendants and sympathizers quickly rushed to her aid, while proceedings were temporarily halted. She was later revived and taken outside the courtroom for medical attention.

The presiding judge, visibly moved by the scene, adjourned the case to a later date to allow the woman to recover fully. The dramatic turn of events drew the attention of many present at the court premises, sparking discussions on the emotional toll of divorce cases.

Ogun State Government and two leading renewable energy service companies (RESCOs) have entered into a landmark partnership agreement to generate around 1,100 MW of solar power in the state to strengthen its industrial base.

The companies are: Tranos Contracting Limited, which is to establish 600MW solar panel manufacturing plant and battery pack in the state, and Vision Gas and Power Limited, which is also to establish 500MW solar panel manufacturing plant with potential expansion to 1GW.

The partnership was sealed at the instance of the Vice-President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, during the Nigeria Renewable Energy Innovation Forum(NREIF) 2025, holding between October 14th and 15th, 2025 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media & Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, stated that the forum was convened under the Federal Ministry of Power and co-organized with the United Nations Development Programme(UNDP), the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), and the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) with Vice-President Kashim Shettima as Chairman for the year 2025.

With the theme: “Implementing the Nigeria first policy: Facilitating Local Content Development and Manufacturing in the Renewable Energy Ecosystem NREIF2025”, the forum, according to the statement, is Nigeria’s premier platform to shape the future of renewable energy manufacturing in Nigeria by bringing together global leaders, investors and policy makers, among others.

“These partnerships will ultimately spotlight Ogun state as a leader in innovation, industrial readiness and inclusive growth, while affirming our state’s commitment to economic diversification and environmental sustainability.

“This is in tandem with our vision to attract investments that drive robust economic base, create jobs, and ensure that our State remains a model of innovation and sustainability.

“By expanding local capacity for clean energy production, we are reducing dependence on imports and laying a foundation for inclusive industrial growth”, the statement read.

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has said that the wave of defections by governors in the South-East cannot guarantee the political capture of the region.

Obi, who spoke to reporters in Abuja on Wednesday, said Nigeria was operating under a democracy, not military rule, where the people, not governors or senators, ultimately decide who leads them.

Responding to questions about the recent defections of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and others to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Obi said such movements did not amount to capturing any state or zone.

“Peter Mbah is a good friend of mine. I believe that as governor, he must have taken his decision based on his own political views and calculations,” Obi said. “As for the alleged plot to capture the South-East, we are not in a military time when you capture people. You are a leader; you do the right things for them to follow you. So I don’t think anybody is capturing anywhere.”

The former Anambra State governor urged the Federal Government to focus on good governance, saying performance, not political manoeuvring, was what wins people’s loyalty. “The government needs to do more if it wants the people to support it,” he added.

Speaking on the planned protest for the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, by activist Omoyele Sowore, Obi reiterated his long-standing position that dialogue, not detention, was the way forward.

“There was no need for his arrest in the first place. I’ve always said I will consult, negotiate, and discuss with anybody who is agitating. Let’s follow the rules and dialogue with them,” he stated.

On expectations from Professor Joash Amupitan, who has been nominated as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Obi urged him to ensure credibility in future elections. “We want a new Nigeria where elections are free, fair and credible, and people with competence, capacity, compassion and character are elected,” he said.

He added that public officeholders should act with integrity, reminding Amupitan that “none of us will be here forever. Whatever position we occupy, we must do the right thing and protect our reputation.”

In order to control hazards related to use of harmful chemical substances to preserve fruits, vegetables and other food items in the state, the Oyo State House of Assembly has called the state government through the Ministries of Health and Environment and Natural Resources to embark on serious sensitization programmes.

The House made the call during the plenary on Tuesday after the lawmaker representing Iwajowa state constituency, Hon. Anthony Ogunsola presented a motion on the ‘Need to Regulate and Control the Unhygienic and Unhealthy Preservation of Fruits, Vegetables and other Food Items by Unscrupulous Vendors’.

The motion was co-sponsored by Hon. Anthony Ogunsola, (Iwajowa) Hon. Sanjo Onaolapo (Ogbomoso South), Bamidele Adeola (Iseyin/ltesiwaju), Abiodun Babalola, (Ibadan North East I) Comforter Olajide (Ibadan North I) Olorunpoto Rahaman (Oyo East/West) and Peter Ojedokun (Ibarapa North/East).

Presenting the motion before the House, Hon. Ogunsola, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Solid Minerals, said that some vendors have undermined the importance of fruits and vegetables consumption by preserving them with chemical contaminants like formalin, calcium carbide which can lead to poisoning, cancer risks, respiratory issues, and damage to the liver, kidney, or digestive system.

“Further notes that regular consumption of fruits and vegetables lowers risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type 3 diabetes, and certain cancers due to presence of antioxidants that protect cells from damage Generally, vitamins and phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables strengthen the immune system, helping the body to fight infections.

“Aware that despite the health benefits associated with fruits and vegetables consumption, unhygienic and unhealthy preservation of fruits and vegetables by some unscrupulous vendors in Oyo State and other parts of the country is posing serious dangers to human health. The use of chemical contaminants like formalin, calcium carbide, or excessive sulfites in fruits preservation like orange, banana, apple, mango and other fruit items which can lead to poisoning, cancer risks, respiratory issues, and damage to the liver, kidney, or digestive system. These artificial preservatives methods can trigger allergies, asthma or skin reactions which are common and rampant in our society today. In short, unsafe methods can cause fruits and vegetables to lose their freshness, flavour and natural texture, and when consumed may leave harmful residues that accumulate in the body over time and injurious to human health.

“Further aware that this harmful practice of fruits preservation is commonly found among street and road side fruits vendors within Ibadan metropolis and other parts of the State. These unscrupulous fruit vendors usually apply artificial dyes or spoilage to change the colour of the fruits, especially unripe fruits like Oranges and Bananas,” the lawmaker said.

The House urged the ministries to collaborate on workable enforcement strategies, using technology to test fruits sold at markets and roadside stalls for chemical substances, and prosecute vendors found culpable to serve as deterrent to others and nip the unpatriotic practice in the bud.

In other resolutions presented before the House, Hon. Ogunsola implored the House to set up an Ad-hoc Committee comprising members of Committees on Health, Nutrition and Food Security and Environment, Water Resources and Ecology to conduct comprehensive evaluation of fruits, vegetables and other food items preserved with harmful chemical substances by some vendors in order to safe the people of Oyo State from being exposed to life threatening diseases; and

The lawmaker also called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to urgently take action against all unscrupulous fruit and vegetable vendors in Oyo State especially in Ibadan metropolis using harmful chemicals to preserve fruits, vegetables and other consumable items.