Author: The Nation

  • 22-year-old Ondo monarch warns public against addressing him as “bro” or “blood”

    22-year-old Ondo monarch warns public against addressing him as “bro” or “blood”

    The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom, Ondo State, has warned the general public against disrespecting and addressing its 22-year-old traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II. 

    Oba Oloyede ascended the throne of his forefathers at age 16 as a secondary school student.

    A statement issued on behalf of the palace on Friday, the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, noted that the king must be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times, noting that any deviation from this would no longer be tolerated.

    According to him, some people are hiding under the guise of addressing the monarch as “bro or blood” particularly to disrespect him.

    Read Also: Erudite scholar commends monarch for commitment to peace in Imo

    The statement read, “I write in my capacity as Amb. Prince Adefemi Michael Olorunfemi, Chief of Staff to the Arujale-Ojima of Okeluse Kingdom, Ondo State, to address an important matter that requires the attention of the general public. Kindly note that Alayeluwa Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II is to be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times.

    “Any other form of address is unacceptable. The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yoruba land does not give room for disrespect in any form.

    “Addressing our revered monarch with terms such as ‘bro,’ ‘blood,’ or any casual or demeaning expressions is highly inappropriate and will no longer be tolerated. Such actions will be met with strong and decisive measures. His Majesty’s leniency and calm disposition should not be mistaken for weakness, nor should it be taken as permission to do the wrong thing. Especially for those who call themselves Yoruba, we should know better. Culture, tradition, and respect for constituted authority are values we must uphold at all times.

    “Regardless of your status, age, or position in society, the king must be respected. This is non-negotiable. His Royal Majesty is not just our father; he is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth. The throne he occupies is sacred, and respect for the throne is respect for our heritage and identity as a people.”

    The palace called on residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the general public to always uphold the dignity of the throne, stressing that respect for the monarch remained central to the preservation of Yoruba culture and tradition.

    “We urge everyone, within and outside Okeluse Kingdom, to conduct themselves accordingly and uphold the dignity of the palace and the person of His Royal Majesty. Respect for the throne is non-negotiable,” the statement added.

  • FG sets up committee for launch of Edo indigenous airline

    FG sets up committee for launch of Edo indigenous airline

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has set up a technical committee for the launch of an indigenous airline in Edo State.

    The committee was constituted when the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, paid him a courtesy visit to advance discussions on the immediate activation of an indigenous airline for Edo State.

    Governor Okpebholo, who was accompanied by key members of his cabinet, stressed the urgency of establishing a homegrown airline to operate from Benin Airport, describing aviation as a critical driver for Edo State’s economic revival, investment inflow and job creation.

    Okpebholo in a statement by the Media Aide to the Aviation Minister, Tunde Moshood, revealed that the State government is already exploring several partnership options, including engagements with South African investors who have pledged to provide aircraft for the take-off of operations.

    He said, “If I have my way, I want this airline to kick off immediately, like tomorrow, even before the election. Edo State needs a strong aviation presence to open up our economy and reposition Benin as a major hub”.

    Read Also: One dies as multiple trailers collide at Otedola Bridge

    The Minister, who welcomed the initiative and described it as timely revealed that the Ministry has also been engaging potential investors who have shown growing interest in the Benin Airport and its commercial viability.

    Keyamo recalled the historical significance of Benin Airport in Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem, noting that it once served as a major hub for the old Midwest region during the heyday of the defunct Okada Air.

    “Benin Airport used to be a strong aviation hub during the glory days of Okada Air. There is no reason it cannot reclaim that status. The interest we are seeing today confirms that Benin is ready again”.

    To fast-track the process, the Minister requested that the governor nominate a point person who will work directly with the Director of Air Transport Management at the Ministry for effective coordination, regulatory compliance, and operational planning.

    “This committee will report to me and you every week for effective coordination. With proper collaboration, Benin Airport should be fully operational between the first and second quarters of this year.”

  • FG signs concession agreement for Enugu airport

    FG signs concession agreement for Enugu airport

    The federal government has signed the concession agreement for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, as part of measures to modernise Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.

    The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Abuja, where the Minister, Festus Keyamo received a combined delegation of Enugu State Government officials and representatives of the concessionaire, Aero Alliance.

    The Enugu State delegation was led by the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Obi Ozor, while the Aero Alliance team included Engr. Chuks Aniekwe, Barr. Oyiwodu Okibe-Oga, Onyedikachi Nwachukwu, Kester Enwereonu, and Barr. Michael Nwaechie of Ivy Solicitors.

    The Minister in a statememt on Friday by his Media Aide, Tunde Moshood, described the event as the conclusion of a painstaking and transparent process that began several years ago.

    He said: “Today is the end of a very long and tedious process regarding the concession of the Enugu Airport. The process culminated on the 31st of July, 2025, when the Federal Executive Council approved the proposal to concession the Enugu Airport, subject of course to contract”.

    Keyamo explained that following the Federal Executive Council’s approval, the Ministry, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and Aero Alliance engaged in extensive negotiations, including consultations with aviation unions, to ensure that workers’ welfare remained a top priority.

    Read Also: Kogi floats N50b Sukuk for airport, international market

    “We did these agreements with the rights and privileges of workers uppermost in our minds. Let me say today that we have fully respected and preserved the rights of aviation workers. They have not been retrenched, their terms and conditions of employment have not changed in any way, and they remain workers of the Federal Government and FAAN.

    “The workers have not been short-changed in any way at all. Their jobs are safe and protected. Having taken care of the rights of workers, we then addressed other critical issues and virtually covered all areas before the signing of this agreement”.

    The Minister however noted that while the main concession agreement has been concluded, security charges and the financial model for airport operations will be resolved in the coming weeks to ensure smooth implementation.

    “There are two little issues after signing, in terms of operationalizing the agreement, regarding security fees and the financial model of the airport. These will be resolved in the next few weeks. But as far as the main concession is concerned, we have agreed to concession the Enugu Airport to Aero Alliance today”.

    The Minister expressed hope that the agreement will reposition the Enugu Airport for efficiency, improved service delivery, and enhanced passenger experience.

  • Wizkid, Asake release joint EP ‘Real (Vol. 1)’

    Wizkid, Asake release joint EP ‘Real (Vol. 1)’

    Afrobeats singers Wizkid and Asake have released their highly anticipated joint EP, Real Vol. 1, featuring four tracks; Turbulence, Jogodo, Iskolodo, and Alaye.

    The EP followed the success of their lead single, Jogodo, which dropped last week, January 16 and garnered massive streaming numbers.

    Read Also: Fela, Wizkid comparison: A storm in a teacup?

    The duo announced the EP’s arrival on Instagram, sharing a promotional video and captioning it “Real EP Vol. 1 ti jade bayi”.

    This collaboration marks another milestone in their musical partnership, which has produced hits like MMS and Bad Girl.

    Both artists have had impressive individual runs in 2025, with Wizkid’s Morayo being the most streamed album on Apple Music Nigeria, and Asake’s Why Love topping the charts as the most streamed song.

  • Oyo records 246 fire incidents in 2025 — Fire Service Agency

    Oyo records 246 fire incidents in 2025 — Fire Service Agency

    The Oyo State Fire Services Agency has disclosed that no fewer than 246 fire incidents were recorded across the state in 2025.

    Chairman of the agency and special adviser on fire reform to Governor Seyi Makinde, Dr Maroof Adebayo Akinwande, made the disclosure during an interview with journalists on Thursday.

    Providing a breakdown of rescue operations for the year under review, Akinwande said 42 people were rescued alive from various emergency situations, while 30 bodies were recovered. 

    He also revealed that the agency received 10 false emergency calls in 2025.

    According to him, the monthly distribution of fire incidents showed 29 cases in January, 27 in February, 22 in March, 24 in April, 24 in May, 17 in June, 15 in July, 14 in August, 24 in September, 13 in October, 13 in November, and 21 in December.

    He further noted that 116 residential buildings were affected by fire during the year, alongside 38 shops. In addition, 14 vehicles and 21 petroleum tankers were also impacted by fire outbreaks.

    Akinwande urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions to prevent fire incidents, stressing the importance of environmental awareness and responsible handling of flammable materials.

    He also disclosed that the state government has approved the procurement of new firefighting equipment to strengthen the agency’s capacity and improve service delivery.

    Read Also: Fire guts commercial building in Lagos

    Akinwande said, “The total breakdown. We attended to 246 fire incidents in 2025. We received 10 false calls, I mean people that called us and we found out that it did not happen. We attended to 95 special services. We rescued alive 42 people. Victims recovered suspected dead was 30. Overall total is 353. 

    “We want to thank you the media for reporting our activities. It is to show people that these things are happening and people must be aware. It will help to motivate people to be safety conscious. 

    “Let me tell you that in order to ensure that we perform better, the Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has ordered for the procurement of some equipment. 

    “What the state government has done is that the state government has awarded the purchase of seven brand new fire fighting equipments to a contactor which we are expecting its delivery in the next 3 to six months. 

    “Fire fighting auxiliary have been paid for. Government has ordered for the purchase of tyres and battery for our vehicles. 

    “The governor has increased our operational cost. Not that one alone, the governor has approved the recruitment of 100 fire fighters. They are not undergoing training now. 

    “What the governor is saying is that of have all those equipments and no one to handle them, it is as if you are doing nothing, so the governor has ordered for the recruitment of 100 fire fighters. We are operating 24 hours a day. 

    “The governor is also trying to improve the standard of living of our men to encourage us to do more. These are the things the government is doing to ensure effective and efficient service delivery of the agency,”. 

  • Ikorodu LG chairman Ladega bags master’s in public administration

    Ikorodu LG chairman Ladega bags master’s in public administration

    Th Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Prince Adedayo Ladega, has earned a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) at its 56th Convocation Ceremony held at the Akoka campus.

    According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Akeem Mustapha, the academic milestone reflects Hon. Ladega’s commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in public service.

    Hon. Ladega graduated alongside other students at the ceremony, which attracted academics, government officials, and members of the public.

    The statement noted that the MPA programme strengthens his capacity to integrate advanced public administration principles with practical governance for sustainable development in Ikorodu.

    Reacting to the achievement, Hon. Ladega expressed appreciation to the University of Lagos for its role in developing leaders and reaffirmed his determination to deploy the knowledge and competencies acquired from the programme to further enhance infrastructural development, economic empowerment, and community engagement across the local government.

    The statement added that the accomplishment underscores the importance of education in fostering effective, responsive, and progressive leadership.

  • Music is about impact, not numbers – Jaywon

    Music is about impact, not numbers – Jaywon

    Afrobeats singer Jaywon has addressed young artists on the true meaning of music,  following the online feud between Seun Kuti and Wizkid drama.

    In an Instagram post, Jaywon lamented that many young artists focus solely on metrics like streams and recognition, thinking it makes them the best.

    He emphasised that music’s value lies in its impact, ability to change minds, and touch souls. 

    Read Also: Gospel, Afrobeats artists copy ‘This Year’ template – Jaywon

    Jaywon cited legends like Bob Marley and Fela as examples of artists who’ve made lasting impacts, noting their music remains relevant forever.

    “The problem with a lot of you youngins and small minds is thinking music is only about numbers. You believe that because you’ve got streams, recognition, a strong PR machine, and money to throw around.

    “That automatically makes you the best artist in the world, Lol. Music isn’t about numbers. It’s about impact, changing minds and touching souls. That’s why Legends like Bob Marley and Fela still matter. Their music is forever”, he wrote.

  • Group endorses Dennis Ayoola for Senate, backs Adeleke’s re-election bid

    Group endorses Dennis Ayoola for Senate, backs Adeleke’s re-election bid

    A youth pressure group, Osun East Youth for Good Governance (OEYGG), has endorsed Mr. Dennis Ayoola as its preferred candidate for the Osun East Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The endorsement was announced on Friday during an interview by the group’s spokesperson, Comrade Kilanko Olutayo.

    Olutayo described OEYGG as a non-partisan civic organisation committed to accountability, inclusiveness and responsive leadership, noting that the decision followed extensive consultations and evaluations of aspirants within the district.

    “As we approach the 2027 elections, it is important to clearly state our position in the interest of good governance and the future of Osun East,” he said.

    According to him, the group endorsed Dennis Ayoola Olubunmi Ojo of the Accord Party, from Ilesa East Local Government Area, citing his credibility, people-centred agenda and understanding of grassroots challenges.

    He said Osun East required effective representation focused on quality legislation, youth inclusion, grassroots development and genuine advocacy at the National Assembly.

    “Osun East deserves a breath of fresh air. We need a senator who understands the plight of youths, artisans, traders and professionals. Dennis Ayoola represents hope, capacity and a departure from recycled leadership,” Olutayo added.

    The group also called on residents of Osun State to support Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term, commending his administration’s performance in infrastructure development, workers’ welfare, education, healthcare and youth empowerment.

    Olutayo said the Adeleke-led government had restored public confidence in governance through policies that directly impact ordinary citizens.

    “From road construction to improved workers’ welfare and inclusive governance, the present administration has demonstrated that democracy can deliver tangible benefits,” he said.

    OEYGG urged voters, particularly young people, to remain politically active and participate peacefully in the democratic process, stressing that the 2027 elections would shape the future of Osun East and the state at large.

    “The election is about the future. Voters should look beyond party lines and support candidates who truly represent the aspirations of the people, the group said. 

  • 27-year-old woman slumps, dies in boyfriend’s house

    27-year-old woman slumps, dies in boyfriend’s house

    Residents of Die-Die in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja were thrown into confusion when a 27-year-old woman, Esther Akwaji, was reported to have collapsed and died under mysterious circumstances.

    Akwaji was said to have died at her boyfriend’s house while eating.

    Findings revealed that the deceased’s boyfriend, whose identity is yet to be confirmed, allegedly fled shortly after the incident, sparking suspicion and prompting police investigation.

    It was gathered that Esther Akwaji, who was a resident of Nasarawa State, travelled to Abuja to visit family members.

    On January 21, she reportedly left her family’s home, telling relatives she was going to a bank in Dei-Dei and never returned.

    Hours later, family members were reportedly contacted by a man who identified himself as Esther’s boyfriend, using her mobile phone.

    According to a source who pleaded anonymity, the man said Esther had come to visit him and that he had bought food for them to eat.

    He allegedly told the family that while eating, Esther suddenly started vomiting.

    Read Also: One dies as multiple trailers collide at Otedola Bridge

    The said boyfriend claimed he rushed her to Kubwa General Hospital where medical personnel reportedly confirmed that she was dead on arrival.

    The man was said to have fled the hospital shortly after doctors pronounced her dead and has remained unreachable since the incident.

    Confirming the incident, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said the command had commenced full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Esther Akwaji’s death.

    “The corpse has been deposited for autopsy to determine the actual cause of death, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect,” Adeh said.

    Adeh also said the incident was reported on Thursday around 11:am by one Mr. Peter Akwaji who claimed to be Esther’s brother.

    According to her: “On 22nd January, 2026, at about 11:00 a.m., a distress call was received at the Dei-Dei ‘A’ Division from one Mr. Peter Akwaji, who reported that his sister, Ms. Esther Akwaji (27 years), left home on 21st January, 2026, at about 3:00 p.m., stating that she was going to a bank in Dei-Dei but never returned.

    “He further disclosed that at about 10:30 p.m. the same day, he received an anonymous telephone call from an individual who identified himself as the deceased’s boyfriend. The caller stated that Esther had visited him at his residence, where he bought food for her, which she ate, after which she began vomiting. He claimed that she was rushed to Kubwa General Hospital, where she was confirmed dead while receiving treatment.

    “Following the report, a team of Police operatives from the Dei-Dei Division immediately swung into action and proceeded to Kubwa General Hospital, where the lifeless body of Ms. Esther Akwaji was recovered and deposited at the hospital mortuary for autopsy, to determine the exact cause of death.

    “Discreet investigations have commenced and efforts are currently ongoing to trace and apprehend the alleged boyfriend, who is presently on the run”.

    Adeh assured members of the public of police’s unwavering commitment to a thorough investigation and to ensuring that all persons found culpable are brought to justice.

    She added that further developments will be communicated during the cause of investigation.

  • JUST IN: Protest rocks Ijebu Ode over alleged plot to impose candidate as Awujale 

    JUST IN: Protest rocks Ijebu Ode over alleged plot to impose candidate as Awujale 

    Indigenes and residents of Ijebu poured into Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Archway leading to palace and marched towards Ijebu Ode Local Government Headquarters Itoro on Friday morning in protest over alleged plot by unnamed powerful interests to foist the next Awujale on the kingmakers, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House and the Ijebu nation.

    The Nation reports that the Ogun State Government, in a circular dated  January 20, 2026, stopped the Kingmakers from taking further steps to select a candidate out of the 95 nominees submitted  to the kingmaker by leaders of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House – Otunba Lateef Owoyemi (Olori Ebi) Prince Adedokun Ajidagba (Deputy Olori Ebi) and Professor Fassy Yusuf (Vice Chairman).

    Read Also: No plan to impose Awujale, says govt

    The State Government’s circular stopping the process by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, fuelled allegations that Governor Dapo Abiodun – led administration was interfering with process reportedly to impose a candidate on kingmakers.

    Mrs Adenugba Obileye who leads the peace protest, said they were in the local government headquarters to register displeasure over alleged thickening plots to interfere with the job of the kingmakers and impose an Awujale that does not emerge  from due process.

    Details shortly…