Oduduwa News

In a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu conveyed General Musa’s nomination as the successor to Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who resigned on Monday.

General Musa, 58, on December 25, is a distinguished soldier who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025. He won the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.

Born in Sokoto in 1967, General Musa received his primary and secondary education there before attending the College of Advanced Studies in Zaria. He graduated in 1986 and enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy the same year, earning a Bachelor of Science degree upon graduation in 1991.

General Musa was commissioned into the Nigerian Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1991 and has since had a distinguished career. His appointments include General Staff Officer 1, Training/Operations at HQ 81 Division; Commanding Officer, 73 Battalion; Assistant Director, Operational Requirements, Department of Army Policy and Plans; and Infantry Representative/Member, Training Team, HQ Nigerian Army Armour Corps.

In 2019, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff, Training/Operations, Headquarters Infantry Centre and Corps; Commander, Sector 3, Operation Lafiya Dole; and Commander, Sector 3 Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Region.

In 2021, General Musa was appointed Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai. He later became Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps before being appointed Chief of Defence Staff by President Tinubu in 2023.

In the letter to the Senate, President Tinubu expressed confidence in General Musa’s ability to lead the Ministry of Defence and further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

Iwo was agog with academic energy as 216 brilliant students from nine schools converged at Salinsile Events Centre for the MECAMA Games Competition. The Busy Brains 4.0 Edition, held from November 24 to 26, 2025. The three-day event, organized by Algorithm Educational Concepts in partnership with the Dexterity Progressive Organized Private Schools of Nigeria (DEPROPSON), Iwo Chapter, showcased outstanding intellectual performance among young learners.

Conceptualized and convened by Mr. Akinwole Adebayo Najeem, a lecturer from the Mathematics Department, Federal College of Education, Iwo, the competition aimed at strengthening teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving among pupils and students.

Participants from schools including Daaru Qalam School, At-Tawfeeq Model Academy, At-Tawheed School, Kunfayakun Erudite School, Excellent Model School, Olohunlogbo School, Aonullah International School, and Al-Abadillah School formed 108 creatively named teams, adopting titles inspired by ornaments, gems, flowers, and elements such as Alabaster, Bamboo, Alexandrite, Pearl, and Bismuth.

To ensure fairness and transparency, 27 umpires—among them respected lecturers of the Federal College of Education, Iwo, such as Mrs. Hamdallah Orisadare, Mr. Akereyeni Kehinde, and Mr. Nurudeen Adefajo—supervised the contest.

Following a keenly contested first round, 56 teams advanced to the second stage. The semifinal rounds were intense, with students thrilling the audience with their speed, accuracy, and strategic collaboration across diverse academic challenges.

In the grand finale, exceptional young minds emerged winners. In the Primary Category, Team Bismuth (Daaru Qalam School) clinched the top prize, followed by Team Bamboo (At-Tawfeeq Model Academy) in second place and Team Plutonium (At-Tawheed School) in third. In the Secondary Category, Team Nitrogen of At-Tawfeeq Model Academy took first place, while Team Pearl and Team Milestone—both from Kunfayakun Erudite School—won second and third respectively. Winners received cash prizes of ₦50,000, ₦30,000, and ₦20,000.

MECAMA Games Development Manager, Mr. Hafeez Adewoyin (Diamond), expressed satisfaction with the event’s success, applauding participating schools, umpires, and students for their dedication. He reaffirmed MECAMA’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting educational excellence across Osun State and beyond.

Inventor and convener of the MECAMA Games, Mr. Akinwole Adebayo Najeem, lauded the students for their brilliance, describing the edition as a display of creativity, teamwork, and modern problem-solving skills. He called for support from government, organizations, and individuals to sustain and expand the initiative.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, on Wednesday, pressed ahead with its gubernatorial primary election in Osogbo—and in a significant outcome, Fatai Rauf Yekini Oladimeji (FRYO) emerged as the party’s governorship candidate, despite internal turmoil triggered by Senator Ademola Adeleke’s recent resignation from the party.

Delegates began arriving at the Osogbo City Stadium early in the morning, with accreditation and security measures set up across multiple entry points. The turnout reflected the party’s determination to proceed with its political calendar, even as analysts predicted that Adeleke’s exit could destabilize the PDP structure in the state.

Adeleke’s abrupt resignation on Monday deepened existing tensions within the party, exposing long-standing rifts between factions loyal to the former governor and those aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. His departure was widely perceived as a reaction to losing control of the party’s structure and the governorship ticket to the rising Makinde-backed bloc.

Despite the escalating crisis, the PDP leadership remained resolute, with insiders confirming that Makinde’s political network played a key role in ensuring that the primary held as scheduled. Delegates widely described the election as a “battle for the soul of Osun PDP,” one that ultimately produced FRYO as the consensus choice.

As voting progressed, it became increasingly clear that FRYO enjoyed significant support from the Southwest PDP power base linked to Makinde, giving him a decisive edge over other aspirants. Party officials later announced his victory to loud cheers from supporters who celebrated the result as a new direction for the party in the state.

Speaking after the announcement, a senior PDP chieftain noted that the emergence of FRYO demonstrated the party’s resolve to move past the Adeleke episode and rebuild ahead of the 2026 elections.

“Adeleke’s resignation was unfortunate, but the PDP cannot be held hostage,” the official said. “Today’s primary, and the emergence of FRYO, shows that the party is ready to reposition itself. Governor Makinde’s stabilising influence helped to prevent a total breakdown.”

Political observers say the choice of FRYO may mark the beginning of a reshaped PDP leadership dynamic in Osun—one less centred on Adeleke dominance and more aligned with the regional strategy driven by Makinde within the Southwest zone.

Despite lingering grievances within the Adeleke camp, party leaders expressed confidence that FRYO’s candidacy could unify members, restore internal order, and re-energize the PDP’s grassroots base ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

The party is expected to present FRYO formally as its candidate after completing the final ratification process.

Okeho was aglow with colour, culture, and celebration on Saturday as dignitaries from across Nigeria and the diaspora converged for Okeho Day 2025—a vibrant festival that showcased unity, heritage, and the town’s renewed march toward progress.

The high point of the ceremony was the regal arrival of the Onjo of Okeho, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulrafiu Osuolale Mustapha, Adeitan II, whose warm welcome set the tone for the festivities. The monarch expressed deep gratitude to guests and explained that the brief pause in past celebrations was tied to major community-driven development initiatives. He extended special appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde, his Deputy Chief Bayo Lawal, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, and other royal fathers for their steadfast support. In a symbolic gesture, the Onjo presented Senator Abdulfatai Buhari with a “Thank You” banner for his significant contributions to Okeho’s advancement.

Representing Governor Makinde, Deputy Governor Chief Bayo Lawal celebrated the people of Okeho for their resilience and achievements. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and ensuring a thriving environment for residents. Lawal highlighted the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO) as a milestone divinely aligned with the town’s aspirations and made possible through the dedication of leaders including Professor Segun Gbadegesin and Senator Fatai Buhari.

The atmosphere became even more electrifying with the arrival of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, who commended the unity of Okeho people and encouraged them to continue backing the Onjo in steering the town’s future.

Speaking on behalf of the community, the President of Egbe Omo Ibile Okeho, Dr. K. Alarape Salawu, described this year’s celebration as one centred on gratitude. He highlighted key achievements—rehabilitation of the Iseyin–Okeho–Iganna Road, installation of a 33 KVA power line, reopening of a commercial bank, and the establishment of new tertiary institutions. He appealed to the state government to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Alaga–Ado-Awaye Road.

Chairman of the Okeho Day Planning Committee, Captain Adegboyega Olopoenia, applauded the resilience and contributions of all supporters. He stressed the need for enhanced security across Okeho and surrounding communities despite the encouraging progress.

Traditional rulers including the Olokaka of Okakaland, Oba Abdulazeez Olatunji Ayoola, and the Elero of Ilero Land, Oba Wasiu Oyedele Saka, also lauded the Onjo, expressing unwavering support for Okeho’s continued development under the Oke-Ogun Obas Consultative Forum.

A major highlight of the day was the public fundraising session, chaired by renowned legal icon Barrister Ahmed Raji (SAN). Among the notable contributions was the remarkable pledge by Barrister Beulah Adeoye, who committed to building a 200-bed student hostel for FUNATO, reinforcing Okeho’s rapid educational transformation.

Okeho Day 2025 ended on a jubilant note—an inspiring blend of culture, royalty, and community vision, reflecting a town firmly on the path to greater prosperity.

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has expressed sadness over the passing of the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Professor Abdulgafar Siyanbola Oyeweso, describing his death as a big loss.

Governor Adeleke who said he was deeply shaken by the news of the demise of the renowned historian, said Osun state and Nigeria has been denied the service of one of its best.

The Governor extends heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of Prof. Oyeweso, the Timi of Ede and the people of Ede, over this irreplaceable loss. He also condoles with the Management and the entire community of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), who lost a refined leadership of the institution.

“I am disheartened to learn about the unfortunate passing of Professor Abdulgafar Siyanbola Oyeweso, the Pro-Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). Professor Oyeweso was an erudite academia who dedicated most part of his life to shaping futures from the classrooms,” Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying in a condolences message.

“On behalf of the good people of Osun State, I convey my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the Timi of Ede and the people of Ede, the OAU community, mentees and everyone touched by this devastating loss.”

Governor Adeleke prays to Almighty Allah to repose his soul and grant his family, kin, associates and everyone touched by his passing the fortitude to bear the pain of the loss, adding that “it is my sincere hope that his good works in the time he spent here will not die with him”.

In a dramatic political development, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective November 4, 2025.

According to a resignation letter addressed to the PDP Chairman for Ward 2, Sagba Abogunde of Ede North Local Government, Adeleke cited the “current crisis within the national leadership of the PDP” as the main reason for his departure. 

In the statement released by his spokesperson, Governor Adeleke expressed gratitude to the party for giving him the platform to serve — first as a Senator and then as Governor — and thanked PDP members and supporters for their role in his political journey. 

His resignation comes just hours before the scheduled PDP governorship primary election in Osun State — a primary that has now been cancelled as the party grapples with deep internal conflicts. 

At this time, Governor Adeleke has not disclosed which political party he will join next — though speculation is already rife that he may seek a fresh mandate under a different banner ahead of the 2026 Osun State election.

Hon. Dele Adeola, representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intensify security around forest zones and communities bordering Kwara State. He made this appeal during the presentation and deliberation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, noting that Kwara is currently experiencing heightened insecurity that could spill over into Oke-Ogun.

The lawmaker urged the governor to strengthen surveillance, increase patrols, and enhance vigilance across forest belts within the Iseyin, Itesiwaju, Kajola, and Iwajowa corridors. He warned that farmers, travelers, and rural dwellers remain vulnerable unless security is tightened along the Oke-Ogun–Kwara boundary.

Hon. Adeola also stressed the need to improve access roads leading to the renowned Ado-Awaye Suspended Lake, one of Nigeria’s emerging tourism assets. He thanked Governor Makinde for awarding the facelift and rehabilitation project for the lake itself, but emphasized that without good connecting roads, the site cannot fully attract local and international tourists.

He highlighted the importance of tapping into the upgraded Ibadan Airport, which now receives international visitors, as a key advantage for boosting tourism in Oyo State. Improved access to Ado-Awaye, he noted, would significantly enhance the state’s tourism revenue and global visibility.

Hon. Adeola concluded by drawing attention to the shortage of Town Planning Officers across LGAs and appealed for new appointments to support sustainable development. He reaffirmed his commitment to effective representation and prayed for the continued success of Governor Makinde’s administration.

Ogun State Government, on Monday, dismissed the allegation that it stopped the constituency projects being executed by Gbenga Daniel, the senator representing Ogun East in the National Assembly, out of spite.

It declared that Daniel’s projects in some areas were stopped because they were substandard and did not meet Federal Government specifications, adding that the government has a constitutional right to ensure that projects were done appropriately and in consonance with standards.

The government, which made this declaration in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon Kayode Akinmade, said the contractors doing works that do not conform to the Federal Ministry of Works’ specifications were instructed to provide approved specifications and drawings for the road projects that had been awarded to them.

This, the government said, would enable the Ogun Ministry of Works to do proper monitoring of the projects, adding: ” Those contractors who complied have since been given the go-ahead to continue with the road projects.

“At the same time, a designated engineer from the Ogun State Ministry of Works is assigned to conduct routine supervision to enforce compliance with the specifications.”

On Daniel’s suspension, Akinmade said that it is a party affair, adding that the Dapo Abiodun-led administration could not re-admit the Ogun East senator into the Ogun APC fold when it did not suspend him in the first place.

He advised Daniel to exert his energy and media efforts on proving his innocence to the party, instead of blaming everybody but himself
Akinmade said: “It was not the Ogun State Government that suspended Senator Gbenga Daniel; it was the party, APC in his ward, and the suspension was then ratified by the State Working Committee.

“Before then, the party gave him ample opportunity to defend himself, but he shunned the summons.

“That he is launching media attacks on the State Government rather than facing the party that gave him a ticket to contest election, and against which he committed punishable acts, is illogical.
“It shows that he has no regard for the party or its leadership, and no sense of accountability or responsibility. He is just chasing shadows, blaming everyone but himself because of his huge ego.”

On alleged persecution of the senator by Governor Abiodun, Akinmade said that the senator’s claims are laughable.

He said that Daniel had consistently talked and acted as if he was still in charge of affairs as Governor of Ogun State, adding that the senator wanted everyone to automatically kowtow to him no matter what he did.

He said: “Daniel claims that the Government stopped his constituency project, a project meant to be executed with federal funds, simply because he was asked to follow due process. Is he the only federal lawmaker in Ogun State? Is he the only one executing constituency projects?

“Why is he the only former governor constantly at war against law and logic in Ogun State, and always staging a pity party using a pliant media whenever he is tasked with taking responsibility for his actions?

” In Ogun State today, there is peace and stability, unlike his crisis-ridden tenure when he was constantly at war with everyone in the State, including members of the state House of Assembly and the state’s representatives in the National Assembly. Daniel just can’t deal with not being in a position to manipulate things to his advantage.

“He cannot be bigger than the party that gave him a ticket for the Senate. He should sort out his issues with the party if he still has any shred of conscience or integrity.”

He added that the Ogun State Government had better things to do than to be constantly responding to Daniel’s tantrums.

The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has hinted that Governor Ademola Adeleke may no longer pursue the party’s governorship ticket for the 2026 election. According to party sources, the escalating internal crisis at the national level has created widespread uncertainty, forcing the governor to reconsider his political plans.

The PDP has been battling prolonged leadership disputes, factional struggles, and internal mistrust, all of which have weakened confidence among key stakeholders. These challenges are said to be affecting strategic decisions for the 2026 elections, with Adeleke reportedly worried about the party’s ability to provide a stable platform for his re-election bid.

This development comes as a surprise to many, considering Adeleke’s repeated public declarations earlier in the year affirming his loyalty to the PDP. He had consistently dismissed rumours of defection or withdrawal, insisting that he remained fully committed to the party’s structure and would contest under its banner.

However, with the national crisis deepening and several high-profile members expressing frustration, political analysts believe Adeleke’s hesitation could signal a major shift in Osun’s political landscape. If he eventually withdraws from the PDP ticket, it could open the field for new aspirants and significantly alter the dynamics ahead of the 2026 governorship race.

The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has confirmed the abd¥ction of six marketers working for a Lagos-based real estate company at Oyebola village in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of the state.

Ogunlowo disclosed the development on Sunday during a telephone interview with our correspondent. This followed an earlier alert from a resident of a neighbouring community, who spoke on condition of anonymity and reported that the incident occurred on Friday.

According to the Commissioner, the victims were seized while on an inspection tour of the company’s property in the area. “So, they brought some marketers from Lagos to come and see the land so that they can have the requisite information to market the land for the members of the public who are interested.

It was during their visit to this land that the six people were abd¥cted. It happened on Friday, and the command had been on it since, and we shall definitely ensure that these people regain their freedom,” the CP said. The att+ck is the latest in a series of abd¥ctions recorded across the country in recent weeks. These include the k+dnapping of 38 worshippers in Kwara State and 24 students in Kebbi State, all of whom have since been released.

Meanwhile, many others remain in captivity, among them over 250 persons abd¥cted from St. Mary’s Secondary and Primary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, where gunmen reportedly k+lled a security guard and whisked away around 300 pupils, students, and staff during a recent att+ck. Fifty students were said to have escaped afterwards.