The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has denied claims that he promised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to him ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The allegation was made by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, during a recent media interaction in Ibadan.
Wike responded during his end-of-year media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he described the claim as false and misleading.
“That’s a blatant lie. You see, Seyi Makinde has never called me Wike,” the minister said, insisting that no such meeting ever took place with President Tinubu.
He questioned the basis of Makinde’s assertion, asking why the governor failed to brief the party if such a conversation had indeed occurred.
“First of all, let us ask: what was the purpose of that meeting? Why did Makinde not come out to tell the party that this is what Wike said? There was no such meeting,” he stated.
Wike clarified that the only interaction involving Makinde and other PDP leaders with President Tinubu after the 2023 general election was a courtesy visit, not a political negotiation.
“Myself, former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom; former governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu; former governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; and Seyi Makinde went to see the President after the elections. And of course, the Chief of Staff was there,” he said.
Describing Makinde’s claim as unfair, Wike said it was wrong to attribute statements to him that he never made. “That is so unfair to say that I said that. If you look at that media chat, you will see that Makinde was frustrated,” he added.
The FCT minister also criticised Makinde’s approach to politics, suggesting that the Oyo governor lacked a proper understanding of party dynamics.
“We have advised him several times. Politics is not like being a contractor with Shell. It has different rules,” Wike said.
While acknowledging Makinde’s political ambition, Wike stressed that such aspirations must conform to established party norms and processes.
“There is nothing wrong with having ambition. But your ambition must be according to the rules,” he said, adding that “Makinde is a baby in politics and should take lessons from more experienced party actors.”
As global society continues to evolve through rapid technological advancement, Web3 experts, artists, and change-driven enthusiasts have examined post-capitalist ideals and explored opportunities within the blockchain ecosystem, particularly through non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and their regulation.
The event, tagged ‘Ileya’ and organised by Ola and Co. Inc., was held in Lagos on Saturday with the theme “Post-Capitalist Desire.”
The convener, Web3 developer and business transformation expert, Mr. Obafemi Odejayi, explained that the concept of ‘Ileya’ is rooted in its name, which signifies a call to bring home ideas acquired from the diaspora and literature, and translate them into practical and attainable realities.
“We are bringing back tangible physical art pieces from the diaspora, as well as NFT digital art works from artists abroad and within Lagos,” he said.
Odejayi noted that the theme reflects concerns about the pervasive nature of capitalism across the globe, adding that the event was designed to explore how Web3 tools can be deployed for community building.
He said this year’s ‘Ileya’ focused on NFT auctions, art exhibitions, and panel sessions aimed at stimulating thought and inspiring action.
Highlighting the broader potential of the Web3 space, Odejayi said the technology could be applied beyond finance to support community and social initiatives such as voting, community sanitation, skill development, management of community centres, and other activities without the need for intermediaries.
“My target audience, ” he stressed, “is not super defined but for people who want a change and are looking to rediscover the concept of Demos in democracy. In this system, they can’t change the post when the term is over. The NFT auction that started that day continues until the end of the year at gallery.olaco.xyz.
“Individuals have too little power in the state now, but with web3 tech, everyone is responsible for coming together and driving meaningful change. The blockchain is transparent and reveals those who participate in its networks or otherwise,” the Convener added.
However, Submissions from an Artist, Chinedu Offor, expounded on the need to prioritize Education, stating that when people become dissatisfied and frustrated, they often lash out through various evil vices. However, with education, they get the right knowledge and build strong associations to brainstorm and pave the way forward.
“Capitalist desire is to answer the question before us as a generation to build the world we want to live in, identify the questions before us, and our role in shaping the future. Web3 can also be a tool for freedom from slavery. Education is a day-to-day pursuit of curiosity to follow your passion.” Mrs Omolara explained.
She added that if people do not eat, they will be unable to think of freedom or success; hence, poverty is used as a tool by the capitalist to deprive the masses of the right education that enlightens them on how to gain financial independence.
‘Ileya’ 2025, with many exhibitors featured, Artist Ayomide Grey, an exhibitor who cited the relevance of the views of artists to the social and economic vices in society. As related to the theme of post-capitalism, he disclosed that his pieces on display were focused on economic challenges, personal identity, and cross-cultural adaptation. “It’s our job to reflect the society and make it obvious out there,” he stated.
Furthermore, a participant, CEO, Folahan Fabrics, Dame Yetunde Odejayi, examined the significance of the event for mental liberation. She envisioned the program as an empowerment for the minds of the people to think and rethink why everyone should own up to themselves.
In Benue State, where leadership is measured as much by personal steadiness as by public service, news of the renewed stability in the life of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has been received with warmth and quiet celebration.
For many in the state, the development represents not spectacle, but reassurance.
Those close to the family and the community have long been aware that the SGF has lived separately from his former spouse for a long time now, a period marked by restraint, discretion, and an absence of public drama.
True to his long-standing character, Senator Akume neither sought public sympathy nor indulged in explanations. He continued to serve, focused and composed, allowing private matters to remain private.
It is against this backdrop that the people of Benue say they welcome the new chapter in his life—not as a political event, but as a human one.
Community leaders, elders, women’s groups, and youth organisations across the state describe a mood of calm happiness: a sense that a man who has carried immense national responsibility has also found personal peace.
“Our leaders are human beings,” said a senior traditional figure in the state. “When one of our own finds stability after a long period of quiet difficulty, we acknowledge it with goodwill.”
Residents emphasise that what resonates most is not the marriage itself, but the manner in which it unfolded: without provocation, without public conflict, and without disrespect to any party involved. In a political culture often marked by excess and noise, the restraint has drawn admiration.
Equally noted is the reception extended to his wife, who has been welcomed warmly by the people of Benue. Community gatherings and private interactions have reflected openness rather than scrutiny, with many describing her as poised, respectful, and deeply conscious of the responsibilities that come with being associated with a national officeholder.
Women leaders in the state have particularly highlighted the importance of dignity in transition—acknowledging that life evolves, families change, and peace is sometimes found after long periods of silence rather than public confrontation.
For Benue citizens, the story is not one of controversy, but of continuity.
Senator Akume’s long political journey—from governor to senator to one of the most senior technocratic positions in the federation—has been defined by patience, consensus-building, and an aversion to needless conflict. Many see this same temperament reflected in how his personal life has been handled.
As one youth leader in Makurdi put it, “We are happy because our leader looks settled. A settled man leads with clarity.”
In a time when public officials are often reduced to headlines, the people of Benue appear intent on a more grounded message: that leadership thrives when the person behind the office is at peace.
And for them, this moment represents exactly that—a quiet return to balance, welcomed with goodwill and grace.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has confirmed his marriage, describing it as a private personal decision with no bearing on his public responsibilities or political outlook.
Sources close to the SGF disclosed that the union was quietly formalised some time ago and deliberately kept out of the public space, in line with Akume’s long-standing preference for discretion in personal matters.
A senior aide said the SGF has always maintained a clear boundary between his private life and public service, stressing that the principle remains unchanged.
Observers noted that Senator Akume’s career has been marked by institutional continuity rather than spectacle, from his tenure as governor to his current role overseeing government coordination. Insiders said the marriage reflects the same measured and private disposition.
Akume’s spouse, Her Highness Zaynab Otiti Obanor, is described as a philanthropist and international development advocate with a long history of involvement in charitable initiatives focused on community welfare, leadership development, and cross-border dialogue. Associates say she maintains a low public profile, prioritising impact over visibility.
Those familiar with the couple noted that both retain independent professional identities, with no plans to link personal milestones to political positioning.
Amid public interest, aides reiterated that the SGF remains fully focused on his constitutional responsibilities. “The work of government continues uninterrupted,” one official said, adding that governance remains the top priority.
The Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, has assured that he will continue to support events and initiatives that promote tourism, cultural development and unity within the senatorial district and beyond.
Adeola also reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating infrastructural projects capable of transforming the lives of his constituents.
The senator made this known while speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 Isaga Day Festival held at the weekend in Isaga town, Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State, where he served as chairman of the occasion.
He disclosed that he has attracted over 300 projects to complement the delivery of good governance by Governor Dapo Abiodun in Ogun West and other parts of the state. According to him, the constituency projects, spanning roads, healthcare, education, security and empowerment, have been facilitated and completed within his first two years in office.
Adeola, who is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and a native of Isaga settlement, Ago Pahayi in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area, commended the people of Isaga for organising a colourful and violence-free festival.
He stressed that he would continue to support cultural development, particularly initiatives that encourage tourism and drive socio-economic growth.
The senator also lauded the Onisaga of Isaga-Orile Kingdom, Oba Joseph Oladele Olusoji Tella, for his strides in cultural renaissance and peaceful community development, noting that these efforts have strengthened unity among indigenes of the ancient town across its 32 settlements in Nigeria and neighbouring Benin Republic.
“Your Royal Majesty has entrenched a legacy of unity by bringing together sons and daughters of Isaga-Orile from communities in Ogun, Lagos and across the world to identify with and contribute to the development of their ancestral home,” Adeola said.
He further disclosed that he has facilitated the construction and completion of an ultra-modern palace, internal roads with street lights, a town hall, as well as blocks of classrooms and furniture in Isaga-Orile Kingdom. He added that construction of a pavilion and a modern market in the town would soon commence.
Reiterating his commitment to the infrastructural and socio-economic development of Ogun West, the senator, popularly known as Yayi, revealed that work has begun on the repair and upgrade of 10 major electricity infrastructure projects affecting about 100 communities that have experienced prolonged blackouts across the senatorial district and beyond.
Adeola also commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for supporting tourism development through the promotion of various festivals in the state, including Ojude Oba, Oronna Ilaro, Lisabi, Iganmode and Akesan Day celebrations.
“I am aware that the governor’s pro-active policy in the primary areas of security is responsible for a violence- free- state and drastic reduction in criminal activities. I also commend our governor for the numerous construction projects in the area of roads, hospitals and educational institutions across the state with a flagship project in the area of aviation through the construction and commissioning of the Gateway Cargo Airport at Iperu.
“There is no doubt that your policies and programmes are complimentary of that of the Renew Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level”, the senator submitted.
In his remarks, the Committee Chairman of 2025 Isaga Day Festival, Gboyega Aramide, noted that the event with the theme “A Legacy of Unity and Progress”, was aimed at bringing indigenes of Isaga together, strengthening relationships and building bonds.
“This festival provides a unique opportunity for Isaga sons and daughters – both at home and in the diaspora – to reunite, interact and celebrate together, in honour of our founding fathers whose history dates back to around 1750, long before the Dahomey War of 1862.
“Many of the Isaga people dispersed by the war settled in places such as Abeokuta, Ilaro, Iju, Ado-Odo, Mushin, Surulere, Isolo, Irogun and even Dahomey where they retain the name “Isaga” in remembrance of their origin”, Aramide stated.
The Onisaga of Isaga-Orile Kingdom, Oba Olusoji Tella, said that the festival served as a platform to mobilize the people for development, fosterunity, strengthen communal bonds, open doors to visitors and investors.
The monarch represented by Babatunde Tella, commended Senator Adeola for facilitating various developmental projects to the town, noting that the construction of the ultra modern market in Isaga-Orile would put the ancient town on the global map as a result of its strategic location along Sokoto-Badagry Road.
Tola Wewe Art Gallery has unveiled its inaugural exhibition and salon titled “One in All: Where Communities, Creatives Thrive”, a step towards awakening and strengthening Ondo city emerging creative economy.
The project, curated by Frances Akinkuoye and assisted by Omolola Afolabi, brings together creatives, institutions, and businesses across Ondo into one immersive art salon designed to inspired connection, dialogue, and build a shared vision for the city’s cultural future.
Speaking with journalists, Frances, noted that Ondo City for many years has been home to tremendous talent artists, designers, tech innovators, young thinkers, and creative entrepreneurs, yet, the ecosystem has remained quiet, with creativity often undervalued or outsourced to other states.
She said many aspiring creatives choose more predictable jobs simply to survive, leaving passion unexplored and potential unrealized.
She stated that the narrative can change when community members, industry leaders, and creative practitioners meet intentionally at one table.
According to Frances, the exhibition was conceived as a central point where everyone who plays role in shaping creativity in Ondo can gather to see, to listen, to participate, and to reimagine what is possible in this city.
She said, “At the heart of the exhibition is an interactive canvas, a large participatory installation where visitors freely paint, draw, write, and express themselves as a way of reconnecting to creativity.
“Another highlight is the Augmented Reality tech experience that allows guests to step inside an artwork, observing details and textures from a fully immersive perspective.”
The lead curator described these elements as an invitation to rest, reflect, breathe, and remember that creativity is a natural human resource not a luxury.
“One in All also draws from the history of art salons, spaces where cultural leaders, thinkers, and business owners gathered to discuss ideas, form collaborations, and shape society.
“We wanted to recreate that spirit in Ondo. A place where bankers, hotel owners, fashion brands, students, tech founders, government representatives, and artists can sit together and talk. Creativity grows when there is dialogue. And communities grow when creativity thrives.
“This project is supported by forward-thinking brands who believe in the future of Ondo’s creative landscape. Leading the sponsorship are two tech-focused organizations contributing significantly to the digital and economic empowerment of the region:
“A fast-growing tech hub and co-working space in Ondo City, Hunnovate continues to position itself as a catalyst for innovation and youth development. Beyond offering workspaces, they are committed to accelerating growth for digital entrepreneurs, developers, and startups aligning seamlessly with the vision of empowering Ondo’s creative ecosystem.
“The Involvement of Spent Academy ( a tech education hub focused on digital skills, running courses in areas like Graphic Design, Cybersecurity, AI, and empowering youth through training, workshops like Techxcellence, to build a future-ready workforce in Nigeria, aiming to bridge the digital gap and foster innovation) in this exhibition underscores their belief that creativity, innovation, and skill-building can transform not only individuals but entire cities.
“Their sponsorship reflects an understanding that technology and creativity are deeply interconnected forces that shape thriving communities.
“The project also acknowledges the support of key partners within Ondo’s creative and business sectors, including OIC Photography, a professional creative photography brand directed by, Olagundoye Iyinoluwa Covenant.
“King’s Coterie, a creative agency that works with branding and documentation managed by Olabamikorede Merisi
Alashake, a vibrant and fast-growing drink brand in Ondo city and Nationwide. Finally, The B.T.S. Factory, a mobile video content creation brand in Ondo City.
“Together, these brands demonstrate what becomes possible when creative and corporate sectors collaborate to strengthen the cultural fabric of a community.
“The exhibition is hosted at Tola Wewe Art Gallery, led by iconic artist Chief Tola Wewe, a respected cultural figure and former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Ondo State.
“His decades-long artistic practice has been instrumental in shaping contemporary visual art narratives in Nigeria. During the gallery’s opening September this year, former Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko attended and declared the gallery open, describing it as a landmark cultural addition to Ondo Stateand encouraging creatives to stay committed to their paths.
“Building on this momentum, One in All seeks to deepen that cultural foundation. Banks, hotels, media houses, universities, and creative businesses have been invited to a VIP Art Evening a reflective gathering where stakeholders can witness the exhibition, engage in conversations about the creative economy, and explore collaborative possibilities.”
She said while many executives might prefer to send representatives, the experience is best felt in person.
Samuel Aondoakura Akume, son of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on Saturday tied the knot with Deborah Ershima, daughter of Engineer Msula Atoga, in a modest wedding ceremony held in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
The deliberately low-key event was attended by close family members and a few dignitaries. Vice President Kashim Shettima was present at the reception, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and was received by the SGF alongside Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
Although private in tone, the ceremony drew guests from political and social circles. Also in attendance was the groom’s mother, Chief Mrs. Hanmo Dajor, a former wife of Senator Akume.
The wedding comes shortly after Senator Akume’s recent marriage to Queen Zaynab Otiti Obanor (Ngohemba), as well as the cultural activities that accompanied her homecoming to Gboko, marking a season of significant personal milestones for the Akume family.
The Nigerian Army has commended Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, for renovating and remodelling the ensuite blocks of 12 family quarters at the Corporal Below Quarters (CBQ), Natsinta Army Barracks, Katsina.
Governor Radda commissioned the renovated quarters when he joined Christian communities of the Nigerian Army in the barracks to celebrate Christmas.
The Governor lauded the efforts of the 17 Brigade in safeguarding lives and property in the state, attributing the relative peace being enjoyed in Katsina to the dedication and sacrifice of security personnel.
According to him, the cordial relationship between the state government and security agencies has contributed significantly to the security successes recorded so far.
Radda also appreciated the families of military personnel for their support and sacrifices, noting that the commitment of soldiers to their constitutional duties would not be possible without the backing of their loved ones.
He further renewed his condolences to the families of security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty while protecting citizens of the state.
As part of the Christmas celebration, the Governor announced a donation of ₦10 million to Christian families residing in the barracks as a goodwill gesture.
In his remarks, the Commander of 17 Brigade, Katsina, Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, thanked Governor Radda for funding the renovation and remodelling of the CBQ.
He described the project as a step towards improving the welfare and standard of living of troops and their families.
“This project is geared towards enhancing the standard of living of troops and their families. The Governor’s gesture aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of advancing the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, combat-ready and resilient force,” he said.
Brigadier General Omopariola also acknowledged the Governor’s goodwill towards the military, expressing appreciation for his presence at the barracks to share in the Christmas festivities with Christian communities.
He urged beneficiaries of the renovated quarters to take ownership of the facilities, use them responsibly and maintain a high sense of dedication and commitment.
In a related development, Governor Radda paid a visit to leaders of Christian communities in the state, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sensitising Christian faithful on the need for cooperation with the state government.
The Christian leaders, in turn, commended the Governor for his inclusive leadership style and for carrying all citizens along irrespective of religious differences
Former Senate Leader and Senator representing Borno South, Mohammed Ali Ndume, has called on the Federal Government to take urgent humanitarian steps to support the Borno State Government in resettling, reconstructing and rehabilitating victims displaced by over a decade of insurgency.
Ndume made the appeal at a Christmas luncheon he organised in collaboration with the Coalition of Christian Youths (Youth-CAN) for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) taking refuge at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Centre in Borno State.
A statement from his office in Abuja said the event attracted hundreds of displaced persons, traditional rulers, political leaders, religious figures, youth representatives and other community stakeholders.
The lawmaker commended Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, describing him as a leader with exceptional commitment to humanitarian recovery, particularly in conflict-affected areas such as Gwoza Local Government Area.
“Out of the 27 local governments in Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has shown uncommon love, courage and dedication to Gwoza and other communities affected by insurgency,” Ndume said.
Responding to appeals by the displaced persons for assistance to return to their ancestral homes, the senator assured them that he would convey their requests to Governor Zulum.
“It pleases me to hear that you personally requested my support to take you back home. We will ensure your return. We are fortunate to have a governor who truly cares about his people, and I will engage him directly on this matter,” he said.
Ndume also pledged to facilitate the safe and dignified return of IDPs currently taking refuge at the Minawao Camp in Cameroon to their communities in Borno State.
At the event, the senator announced the distribution of 200 bags of rice and cash assistance.
According to him, 30 bags were given to Youth-CAN, 20 bags used for the Christmas luncheon, 100 bags distributed to IDPs at the CAN Centre, while 50 bags were shared among IDPs in other camps across the state.
He added that similar Christmas engagements would be extended to Bayan Dutse, noting that many of the displaced persons originated from Ngoshe, Ashigashiya, Pulka and other communities in Gwoza Local Government Area.
Earlier, the Chairman of Indigenous Pastors of Borno State, Rev. Waziri Dibal, thanked Ndume for organising the luncheon and appealed for sustained legislative and governmental support to ensure the return of displaced persons to their homes.
Also speaking, Chairman of Borno State Christian Youths, Barr. Ephraim Yidawi, commended the senator for identifying with the youths and urged greater involvement of Christian youth organisations in the repatriation and reintegration of refugees from Cameroon.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Dr. Yohana expressed appreciation to Ndume for his material support and for personally attending the event, describing his presence as a symbol of unity, inclusion and empathy.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the APC Assistant Financial Secretary, Hon. Luka Apagu Mussa, and the Camp Chairman, Mr. John Gwoma Haghaya, who praised the senator’s intervention and acknowledged Governor Zulum’s sustained humanitarian leadership.
The event ended with the symbolic serving of meals, traditional dance performances and communal celebrations, leaving the displaced persons with renewed hope and confidence in ongoing efforts to restore dignity and stability to affected communities.
Prominent leaders, traditional rulers and top professionals converged on Ilesa, Osun State, for the dedication of IGADILE Manor, the country home of the family of Omooba Olaniran Olayinka.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup (Ajimoko III); retired Methodist Archbishop of Ilesa and Ibadan, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu; Anglican Bishop of the Church of Nigeria, Ilesa Anglican Communion, and former Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Bishop (Prof.) Dapo Asaju; as well as Prof. Idowu Olayinka, elder brother of the celebrant and 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.
Also present were Mrs. Alice Ajidahun, the celebrant’s elder sister; the Olu-Odo of Odo-Ijesha and elder brother of the celebrant, Oba Olufemi Olayinka; Engr. Femi and Mrs. Olaitan Odeyemi; the Ashiwaju of Ijesaland, Ashiwaju Yinka Fasuyi, alongside numerous traditional rulers and dignitaries from across the country.
The unveiling of IGADILE Manor was described as more than the dedication of a family home, but the celebration of a cultural landmark that blends architectural refinement with deep-rooted heritage.
Guests admired the edifice as a symbol of prestige, reflecting the fusion of tradition, faith and modernity that defines Ilesa’s social and professional elite.
Omooba Olaniran Olayinka, the initiator of the project, was celebrated for decades of professional excellence.
A first-class Economics graduate of the University of Lagos, he has held top positions in leading banks, including United Bank for Africa, and served as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Keystone Bank Nigeria Limited. He hails from the Ajifodu Ruling House of Odo-Ijesha in Atakunmosa East Local Government Area of Osun State.
The dedication ceremony featured prayers led by Bishops Ladigbolu and Asaju, while royal blessings were offered by the Owa Obokun, Oba Clement Haastrup. Family members, friends and well-wishers also rendered tributes and thanksgiving.
The event was enlivened by musical performances from the Aladamo of Ijesaland, Chief Niyi Ajetomobi, whose melodious renditions, complemented by a live band playing contemporary and praise songs, added colour to the celebration.
Guests commended the Olayinka family for their enduring commitment to community, culture and professional excellence, describing IGADILE Manor as a symbol of personal achievement and legacy that bridges heritage with modern sophistication.
In his remarks, Olayinka expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness to the family and thanked all guests and well-wishers for honouring the occasion. He prayed that joy, peace and continuous celebration would not cease in their households.
