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Category: Southwest

  • Crisis in Oyo APC is over, chairman declares

    Crisis in Oyo APC is over, chairman declares

    The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Alhaji Olayide Abas, has expressed confidence that the long-standing internal crisis within the party, which has hindered its return to power since 2019, will soon be resolved.

    Abas assured that stakeholders across the party are now committed to working together to rebuild a stronger and more united progressive front in the state.

    Speaking at the party’s Secretariat in Oke-Ado, Ibadan, the APC chairman noted that conflicts are natural in any human organisation and are often the result of interactions, competition, and differing interests.

    He added that the true measure of leadership lies in the ability to effectively manage such inevitable crises, stressing that this capacity determines a party’s growth, cohesion, and eventual electoral success.

    He said, “In Oyo APC today, we have gone through a lot in the last seven or eight years and the beautiful thing now is that we have got to a point where virtually everyone is saying ‘enough is enough’.

    READ ALSO; Prof. Amupitan: 10 quick facts about new INEC chairman

    “We had a Leadership Summit on Tuesday and its outcome reflected a bright future of hope, unity and progress for our great Party in the state. The Summit was well attended by invited dignitaries from across the state and it signalled a new beginning with a promise of huge success.

    “I must appreciate Party leaders such as; His Excellency Chief Iyiola Oladokun, Chief Akin Oke, Senator Ayo Adeseun, Sen. Brimo Yusuf, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle among other stakeholders as well as all the members of the Peace Advocates (a group of eminent APC leaders in the state) for their contributions to the success of the Summit which rekindled the spirit of togetherness, love and service in our people as evident in the feedback generated during and after the programme.

    “We have carried out series of reconciliation efforts since I assumed office as the state chairman late last year and the results are manifesting. 

    “Even the Summit which we organized successfully on Tuesday was sponsored by eminent party members who wanted the best for the APC in the state and the next thing is for us to set up an Implementation Committee for the resolutions reached at the summit to see the light of the day while efforts are being put in place to organize an expanded Stakeholder Meeting as soon as possible with a view to bringing everyone on board.”

  • Makinde appoints OYSIEC board, LAUTECH teaching hospital governing council 

    Makinde appoints OYSIEC board, LAUTECH teaching hospital governing council 

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has approved the appointment of new members into the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) and the Governing Council of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.

    According to appointment letters signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, eight persons were named to serve on OYSIEC, while seven others were appointed to the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital governing council.

    Comrade Adeniyi Afeez Babatunde was appointed as the new Chairman of OYSIEC. Other members include Olatunde Akintunde Theophilus, Mrs. Adebayo Mariam Adepeju, Mr. Olanrewaju Emmanuel, Chief Kunmi Agboola, Mr. Remi Ayoade, Mr. Sunday Falana, and Mr. Babatunde Ige.

    READ ALSO; Prof. Amupitan: 10 quick facts about new INEC chairman

    The newly appointed members of the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Governing Council are Prof. Banji Oyeyinka Oyelaran (Chairman), Mr. Olatunde Gabriel Oyelade, Dr. Bello Adebayo Taiwo, Mrs. Isola Agnes Bolanle, Dr. Akintunde Kehinde Ayinde, Prof. Olawale Adebayo Olakulehin, and Prof. Adenike Olugbenga-Bello.

    Governor Makinde charged all appointees to perform their duties with diligence, dedication, and loyalty to the state, noting that the appointments take immediate effect.

  • APC demands arrest of fleeing Osun Amotekun Commandant over Akinlalu killings

    APC demands arrest of fleeing Osun Amotekun Commandant over Akinlalu killings

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for the arrest of the fleeing Commandant of the Osun State Amotekun Corps, Isaac Omoyele, over the alleged killings of residents in the Akinlalu community.

    The Nation reports that Amotekun operatives invaded the Akinlalu market square, killing three members of the same family and another resident, while several others sustained gunshot injuries. Omoyele later claimed he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt — a claim the police dismissed.

    On Wednesday, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) squad sealed Amotekun’s operational bases in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, and Ife Central, arresting over 25 operatives in connection with the incident.

    Reacting to the development, APC, through its Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, commended the IGP for his swift response to the killings and urged the police to ensure the arrest of the fleeing commander.

    Olabisi said, “We commend the proactive approach of the Nigeria Police Force towards the investigation of the extra-judicial killings of ten innocent natives of Akinlalu, a town in the Ife North Local Government Area of the state, by the Amotekun corps.”

     “The Commandant of the supposed peace-keeping Osun State-based para-military security service, Mr Omoyele, a retired Chief Superintendent of Police, who currently heads the corps, had earlier been indicted by the Osun State EndSARS Judicial Panel in 2020 for human rights violations and extra-judicial killings, with recommendations for his demotion and prosecution.”

    READ ALSO; Prof. Amupitan: 10 quick facts about new INEC chairman

    He noted that the Amotekun outfit has been repeatedly accused of running illegal underground cells where citizens are allegedly tortured and unlawfully detained.

    “The Osun Amotekun Commandant, a former Chief Security Officer to Governor Ademola Adeleke, is currently on the run to evade police interrogation over his alleged involvement in the Akinlalu massacre and the recent claim by Omoyele that he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by police operatives.”

    He queried, “If Omoyele has no skeleton in his cupboard, why is he evading the police invitation by staging his attack on those he tagged as uniformed gunmen at the Kobongbogboe area of Osogbo, the state capital, about three days ago?

    “Omoyele should explain to the discerning members of society why his phony attack coincided with the time he was invited by the Osun State Police Command to come forward with proof of his allegation of being attacked.

    “Our own observation about the development is that Omoyele was only trying to be clever by half to escape investigation on a case he was said to be expressly complicit in.”

    APC demanded, “We are imploring the Inspector-General of Police to delve into the matter and ensure that the armed political hoodlums who have been terrorising the people of the state under the nomenclature of Amotekun corps are diligently prosecuted and face the legal penalty that is commensurate with the offences committed.

    The Police should intensify their dragnet for smoking out, without further delay, the Commandant of the Osun Amotekun corps, from anywhere he may be hiding.”

  • Court remands 47-year-old impostor for extorting motorist in Lagos

    Court remands 47-year-old impostor for extorting motorist in Lagos

    A Lagos Mobile Court has ordered the remand of a 47-year-old man, Mr. Adetayo Adewodun, for allegedly impersonating an officer of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and extorting money from an unsuspecting motorist at Itire Junction.

    Adewodun, who was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and impersonation, pleaded not guilty to the offences.

    The court consequently ordered his remand in a correctional facility pending the perfection of his bail conditions, even as the case was adjourned for further hearing.

    According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, the accused was apprehended on Tuesday, October 7, during a swift enforcement operation by the Agency’s Surveillance and Intelligence Unit, acting on the directive of the General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki.

    READ ALSO; Prof. Amupitan: 10 quick facts about new INEC chairman

    Investigations revealed that the suspect, alongside two accomplices now at large, accosted one Mr. Ayano Stephen, driver of a white Hilux vehicle with registration number GME 259 TE, for allegedly making an illegal turn at Itire Junction.

    Pretending to be a genuine LASTMA officer, Adewodun reportedly demanded ₦80,000 as a supposed fine for the traffic offence.

    The unsuspecting driver, who only had ₦7,800 on him, eventually gave up the amount to the impostor before LASTMA operatives swooped in to apprehend him.

    Describing the court’s action as “a welcome and commendable development,” Mr. Bakare-Oki lauded the judiciary for ensuring that justice takes its due course. He maintained that the prosecution of the fake officer would serve as a deterrent to others who engage in similar fraudulent acts.

    “This judicial action will send a strong message to unscrupulous individuals who impersonate LASTMA officers to defraud innocent motorists,” Bakare-Oki said.

    He reiterated the Authority’s unwavering commitment to maintaining order, discipline, and sanity on Lagos roads, assuring residents that LASTMA would continue to protect law-abiding citizens from harassment and fraudulent exploitation.

  • Minister hails state for promoting workplace safety

    Minister hails state for promoting workplace safety

    The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has praised Lagos State Government for showing exemplary leadership in promoting occupational safety and health standards, describing the state’s efforts as a model for others to emulate.

    Speaking at the Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health (LASOSH) Conference 2025, the minister hailed the Lagos State Safety Commission and the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for their proactive commitment to building a safer work environment.

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    She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working with states, employers, and other stakeholders to strengthen occupational safety and health practices nationwide. She explained that the ministry is aligning its initiatives with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasises job creation, economic growth, and the welfare of Nigerian workers.

    “Our goal is to ensure that safety is fully integrated into national efforts on job creation and employability. We are committed to supporting employers with practical regulations that protect workers while enabling enterprise to thrive,” she said.

    She called for greater collaboration among government, the private sector, and civil society in building a safety-first culture that protects every worker — both in the formal and informal sectors.

  • Ondo NUT, ACCOMORAN unite for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ondo NUT, ACCOMORAN unite for Tinubu’s re-election

    Nigeria Union of Tailors (NUT) and Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (ACCOMORAN) have declared their commitment to ensure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

    They said they were spurred by the exemplary leadership of Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    The pledge was made during a meeting with the All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders’ Movement for Tinubu in Ondo State, led by Coordinator Otunba Agboola Kelly, in Akure.

    The two groups resolved to mobilise their members to secure a decisive victory for Tinubu, driven by their admiration for Tunji-Ojo’s transformative contributions to national governance.

    Comrade Akinlolu Olumorin, representing ACCOMORAN, decried the group’s marginalisation by Ondo State Government.

    “Ondo is the only state where ACCOMORAN is denied operational recognition. The government employs thugs to sell tickets to Okada riders, sidelining our members,” he said.

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    ‘’When Otunba Agboola Kelly called for our support for President Tinubu’s re-election, we were initially sceptical, but we were inspired by the remarkable achievements of our esteemed son, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    ‘’His innovative reforms as Minister of Interior have motivated us to dedicate our efforts to ensuring Tinubu’s success in 2027.’’

    Similarly, Nigeria Union of Tailors has affirmed its determination to rally its members across Ondo State to deliver overwhelming support to Tinubu.

    Representing thousands of tailors and motorcycle riders, NUT and ACCOMORAN are leveraging their extensive grassroots networks to drive voter engagement.

    “We have implicit confidence in Tunji-Ojo’s leadership, and this has cemented our resolve to make Tinubu’s re-election a done deal.

    “Our efforts signal a formidable boost to the APC’s campaign, ensuring a strong foundation for victory in 2027.”

  • Abiodun hailed on Ogun airport inaugural flight

    Abiodun hailed on Ogun airport inaugural flight

    The Convener of Omoluwabi Political Movement, Armstrong Akintunde, has congratulated Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun on the achievement recorded with the successful completion of Ogun Gateway International Airport and the inauguration of its first commercial flights.

    Speaking with reporters, Akintunde described the airport project as a transformational initiative that would not only accelerate the growth of Remoland, but also catalyse unprecedented development across the state.

    He praised Governor Abiodun for his visionary leadership, describing him as a true son of the soil, who had revived the glory of Remoland and Ogun State through purposeful governance and strategic developmental projects such as Gateway International Airport.

    Akintunde noted that the new airport would ease travel for residents and investors alike, ending the long-standing dependence on Lagos for air travel.

    “It’s now time for the people of Ogun State to enjoy convenient air transport without having to go through Lagos to reach Abuja or any other destination,” he said.

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    Commending the governor’s commitment to his administration’s ‘Igbega Ipinle Ogun’ mantra, Akintunde said the infrastructural strides recorded under Abiodun’s leadership were clear evidence of a government driven by vision and impact.

    “When this administration came on board in 2019, I was confident that we would witness great transformation.

    “What we are seeing today, especially this functional international airport, is a testament to Governor Abiodun’s mission to elevate Ogun State far beyond the level he met it,” Akintunde declared.

    Reflecting on his group’s political journey, Akintunde recalled their firm support for Governor Abiodun’s re-election through their former platform, DACA, ‘’which has now evolved into the Omoluwabi Political Movement.

    “Governor Abiodun embodies the true Omoluwabi spirit; integrity, diligence, and service. These are the principles that define our movement and continue to guide our political engagements,” he said.

    Akintunde also commended ValueJet,  Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the good people of Ogun State for their collective roles in supporting the governor to achieve this historic milestone.

    Speaking further on the strength and growth of the ‘Omoluwabi’ Political Movement, he said politics evolved through stages and movements.

    “Omoluwabi Political Movement is stronger than ever. Our membership base has grown massively, our structure is solid, and our ideas are fresh and dynamic. We remain a forward-thinking movement committed to the continuous progress of Ogun State,” he added.

  • Okpebholo vows to demolish land grabbers’ buildings

    Okpebholo vows to demolish land grabbers’ buildings

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has promised to demolish buildings of land grabbers.

    He particularly mentioned land grabbers and encroachers on the Lot A parcel of land (popularly called Coral City), at the Obagie Acquisition, Benin City.

    Okpebholo, in a statement, by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said this was his final warning to land grabbers and encroachers to desist from selling, building, or buying any land from any speculator in the designated area.

    He said the entire Obagie Acquisition belonged to the state government, adding that plans were underway to return Lots B, C and D of the Obagie Acquisition to their owners/occupants.

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    The governor said return of the affected Lots was part of his promise to regularise properties on government land and return the land to their owners.

    The statement said: “Th is notice serves as a strong and last warning to land grabbers and encroachers on government land in Lot A (Coral City) and others across the state, as dire consequences await such illegal activities.

    “Any building on the designated area (Lot A) will also be demolished, while the encroachers will be prosecuted.”

  • Army deploys troops in Kwara communities

    Army deploys troops in Kwara communities

    • AbdulRazaq hails Tinubu

    Nigerian Army headquarters has deployed a full brigade and heavy equipment in parts of Kwara South Senatorial District, it was gathered yesterday.

    Troops were yesterday already milling around through communities inward Oke Ode and Babanla, both in Ifelodun Local Government.

    The operation is also extending to Edu and Patigi to comb through thick forests from where kidnappers have launched cowardly attacks on communities and abducted people in return for ransom, it was gathered.

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the issue at the weekend on the sidelines of the visit to Jos, Plateau State capital, hailed the President for the support, and the military high-command and allied security forces for the renewed intervention to eliminate threats to public safety.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Alake at 69, describes him as loyal ally, patriot

    “We will not spare resources in support of the Military, DSS, Police and other security agencies as they work to strengthen security of lives and property,” the governor said in a statement welcoming the army deployment.

    “We are upbeat that this operation, as part of the ‘Operation Fasan Yanma’, will eliminate all of forms of threats in affected areas in Kwara South and Kwara North. I thank the President and the security agencies for the efforts so far. As I said a few days ago, we just need to double our efforts to save the people. We are confident that the Brig.-Gen. A. A. Babatunde-led Army Brigade will succeed in this important task and clear the entire areas.”

    He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding 2nd Division, and every other officer for their support.

  • Kwara security: AbdulRazaq commends Tinubu as Army deploys full brigade to rout kidnappers from forests

    Kwara security: AbdulRazaq commends Tinubu as Army deploys full brigade to rout kidnappers from forests

    • …heavy equipment roars through communities in Ifelodun, Edu, Patigi

    The Nigerian Army Headquarters have deployed a full brigade and heavy equipment in different parts of Kwara South, as troops were already milling through communities inward Oke Ode and Babanla, both in Ifelodun Local Government Area.

    The operation is also extending to Edu and Patigi to comb through thick forests from which kidnappers have launched cowardly attacks on different communities and abducted people in return for ransom. 

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who met with President Bola Tinubu on the issue at the weekend on the sideline of the visit to Jos, commended the President for the support, and the military high-command and allied security forces for the renewed intervention to eliminate all threats to public safety in the state. 

    “We will not spare any resources in support of the military, DSS, police, and other security agencies as they work to strengthen security of lives and properties,” the Governor said in a statement welcoming the army deployment on Wednesday. 

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    “We are upbeat that this operation, as part of the Operation Fasan Yanma, will eliminate all of forms of threats in affected areas in Kwara South and Kwara North. I thank the President and the security agencies for the efforts so far. As I said a few days ago, we just need to double our efforts to save the people. We are confident that the operation, under the theatre commander Major General Soyele, who is accompanied by Brigadier General AA Babatunde, will succeed in this important task and clear the entire areas.”

    It will be recalled that the Army Headquarters had recently directed the GOC 2 Division Major General CR Nnebeife to relocate to Kwara to coordinate the operations to roll back the activities of the criminals.

    He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Army Staff, the General Officer Commanding of the 2nd Division, and every other officer for their support.