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  • Murder: Traditional rulers send SOS to police, DSS, Aiyedatiwa, others

    Murder: Traditional rulers send SOS to police, DSS, Aiyedatiwa, others

    The Council of Chiefs and Baales in Ugbonla has sent letters of Save Our Souls to the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ondo State Director of State Services, and other security agencies in the state to look into the case of murder of Bababo Lowo, and bodily harm inflicted on the Baale of Ugboland community, Chief Adebowale Ebiwanno, among others by rampaging gangsters which invaded the community recently.

    The traditional rulers who rose from their meeting held on Saturday 15th February 2025 on the ongoing crisis in Ugboland, said many people had fled the community, hibernating in neighbouring communities for their safety.

    According to a communique made available to journalists by the concerned monarchs, and signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Council of Baales, Chief Ibukunola Owowa and Chief Idowu Agbejoye respectively,

    , the council alleged that the crisis, from their investigations, was perpetuated by a group of people.

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    According to the communique, the violent attacks by the gangsters led to the death of Mr Bababo Lowo,  and attempts on the lives of  Chief Adebowale Ebiwano, the Baale of Ugbonla and other persons, who were badly injured and bruised with dangerous weapons by these gangsters in Ugbonla community.

    The Council unanimously condemned the criminal act in the community.

    It therefore called on the government of Ondo State to investigate the reported incidents and arrest the perpetrators and sponsors of “these murderous acts and bring to ensure that justice is served.”

    The  Council also called on the Commissioner of Police; the State Director, the Department of State Service, Ondo State and other security agencies to wade into this situation and save the lives of innocent people and residents in the Ugbonla community who are being hunted down like animals in the bush.

    “We hope these murderers will be brought to book immediately by the Government,” the Council said.

  • Aiyedatiwa inaugurates council officials

    Aiyedatiwa inaugurates council officials

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has sworn in chairmen and vice chairmen elected in the January 19 local government elections.

    All Progressives Congress (APC) won in the 18 local governments of the state.

    The governor said the event was a turning point in the life of grassroots governance.

    He urged the chairmen to cooperate with his administration in its developmental agenda tagged: “O’ Datiwa, O’Dirorun” or “OUR EASE.”.

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    He reminded them that it behoved on them to translate the trust and confidence reposed in them into accelerated development of the state and make life more abundant for the people at the grassroots.

    Aiyedatiwa said: “I must remind the elected chairmen here today that the oath you have just taken is not a mere formality, but a solemn promise to serve our people with integrity, honesty and transparency.

    “I invite our newly elected chairmen and vice chairmen of local governments and their teams to join forces with us in driving this well thought out policy thrust. Your leadership will be instrumental in delivering the dividends of good governance at the grassroots.”

  • Aiyedatiwa’s administration is rudderless, alleges Akeredolu’s wife

    Aiyedatiwa’s administration is rudderless, alleges Akeredolu’s wife

    Wife of the late Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu, has appraised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration as being rudderless.

    Aiyedatiwa served as the deputy to the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

    Mrs Akeredolu, who declined comments on Ondo State politics, said it was worth noting that the same commissioner her late husband sacked for financial malfeasance was appointed by Aiyedatiwa.

    “You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back. We are watching.”

    Speaking in an interview published in Newstar, an online news platform, Mrs Akeredolu said her late husband would have been alive if he had listened to her on managing cancer treatment.

    She said prayers would never cure cancer, noting that many cancer patients that got cured after treatment were always silent on their survival journey.

    Mrs. Akeredolu said it was her desire to live and raise her young children that compelled her to adapt to lifestyle changes.

    According to her, “after my diagnosis, I began to read extensively about cancer, particularly breast cancer, exploring cancer websites, Cochrane publications and more. This research opened my eyes to the experience of others and the various ways people were fighting the disease. In Nigeria, discussions around cancer were often hushed; people would get cancer and die, and when someone was successfully treated, they seldom spoke about it. Everyone was kept in the dark. The country was silent, but when I was diagnosed, I refused to be part of that silence. This inspired me to establish the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) in 1997, just six months after I was discharged from the hospital.

    “My academic background made it easier for me to understand cancer biology and behaviour. Therefore, it became practically impossible for me to believe that cancer could be caused by juju or spiritual attacks.

    “When people suggested going to church or consulting a spiritualist, I simply ignored them because they were entirely ignorant. You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all. I may not be familiar with other diseases, but when it comes to cancer, I can confidently say I understand the behaviour of the disease.

    Read Also: Ondo @49: Aiyedatiwa promises to make Ondo better

    “When it comes to religion, I tell people to keep to their lanes while I keep mine. ‘Aketi’ understood me, and we managed our differences, yet we had a happy marriage. He was religious, while I wasn’t. I was wired differently, and I make no apologies for that. What came out of their mountain climbing, “blessed” handkerchiefs, water, olive oil, etc., from the GOs and all the noisy prayers like people possessed by demons? If ‘Aketi’ had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow.

    ‘’With my experience watching Aketi battle prostate cancer, if anything, it confirms that cancer is a medical issue. It’s neither juju nor a spiritual attack. My advice to the public is to pay attention to cancer news to be educated. Don’t say it’s not your portion or that you’re covered by the blood of Jesus or that you are a daughter of Zion. Be encouraged to go for cancer screening for early detection, and if cancer is suspected, go to hospital for presentation and treatment. Don’t waste your time running to any pastor.

    “A pastor is not a doctor; he understands nothing about cancer. He can only pray, and prayers don’t cure cancer. Consult a doctor—not just any doctor, but a doctor who specialises in cancer cases.”

    On whether she was still interested in her senatorial ambition, she answered, “absolutely”.

  • Abiodun, Aiyedatiwa, Mimiko, others for Pa Akinmade’s burial

    Abiodun, Aiyedatiwa, Mimiko, others for Pa Akinmade’s burial

    All roads lead to Idanre, Ondo State, on Saturday as the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, his Ondo State counterpart, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, former governor of Ondo, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, members of the National Assembly and other dignitaries attend the burial of the Obamoluwa of Idanre kingdom, High Chief Moses Akinmade.

    The event will also attract former Military Administrator of Lagos State and Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa, Senate Majority Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Ali Ndume and the Chairman of The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

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    Also expected at the burial  are members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Club 66, Idanre; and Idanre Development Assembly (IDA), among others.

    The late Obamoluwa, a community leader, cocoa merchant, and socialite, is the father of the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Ogun State governor, Hon. Kayode Akinmade.

    High Chief Akinmade died on August 5, 2024, at the age of 98. The burial ceremonies, according to the family, will take place between Friday, February 14, 2025, and Saturday, February 15, 2025.

    While the wake-keep is scheduled to be held at No 30, Odolemo Street, Isalu Quarters, Odode Idanre, on February 14, the funeral service will be held at 10 a.m at the First Baptist Church, Idanre, Ondo State, on February 15.

    This will be followed by an internment at his residence while the entertainment of guests will take place at Olofin Grammar School, Odode, Idanre.

  • Tribunal begins sitting in Ondo over petition against Aiyedatiwa’s victory 

    Tribunal begins sitting in Ondo over petition against Aiyedatiwa’s victory 

    Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said that there was nothing to worry about the petitions filed against his victory in the November 16, 2024 governorship election.

    Aiyedatiwa won in all the 18 local government areas of the state to defeat his closet rival, Hon Agboola Ajayi, of the Peoples Democratic Party.

    Three political parties, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the PDP have filed petitions at the tribunal to challenge the victory of Aiyedatiwa.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa, who spoke after the inaugural sittng of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal in Akure, said he was confident that the people voted overwhelmingly for the right candidate.

    Aiyedatiwa said his victory at the election was historic and a true reflection of the people’s will.

    The governor said: “The election was free, fair, and credible. The people of Ondo State made history by ensuring that, for the first time, a candidate won in all 18 local government areas. That alone speaks volumes about the trust and confidence they have in my leadership.

    ““And, you know, learning is continuous. Even though I’m the governor, I still also want to hear what is going on in the judiciary arm of government, particularly in this election petition. Having the legal professionals and the very competent justices on this panel, it’s an exercise for me. I just want to witness it and be part of it. There’s nothing to worry about.”

    Meanwhile, over 150 witnesses are expected to testify before the tribunal.

    The PDP said it would call 43 witnesses, the Independent National Electoral Commission said it would call 19 witnesses, Aiyedatiwa would call 32 witnesses while the APC and Adelami would call 20 and 35 witnesses respectively.

    The petitioners are asking the tribunal to invalidate the election on grounds that the election results did not reflect the wishes of the electorates and that the APC candidates were not qualified for the polls.

    However, the respondents asked the tribunal to dismiss the petitions saying the issue of qualifications have been determined at the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal.

    Read Also: Edo poll: Tribunal admits 148 BVAS machines in evidence

    Speaking at the inaugural sitting, Chairman of the panel, Justice Nelson Ugubu, urged Counsel to parties in the suit to cooperate with the panel.

    He assured all parties of fair hearing and appropriate justice based on prevalence of constitution.

    Justice Ugubu cautioned Counsel against preempting decisions of the tribunal and not to be in a haste to talk to the press.

    He urged them to wait till the final decision of the tribunal.

    According to him, “The use of phones or any device in recording and capturing the tribunal’s  proceedings and faces of justices will not be allowed.”

    Sitting was adjourned to February 10th, 2025, for further proceedings.

  • Aiyedatiwa on course in Ondo, says aide

    Aiyedatiwa on course in Ondo, says aide

    Ondo State Commissioner for Regional Integration Boye Ologbese has said the Sunshine State is on course under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    He described him as a man of vision, integrity, and exceptional leadership.

    He also hailed Aiyedatiwa, who recently celebrated his 60th birthday, over his achievements, particularly his transformative leadership that has redefined governance and brought development to the state. 

    Ologbese, in his tribute, said Aiyedatiwa’s leadership philosophy is anchored on progress, innovation, and inclusive governance.

    He said: “Since assuming office, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to uplifting Ondo State through sustainable development, regional collaboration, and the empowerment of its people. His passion for creating lasting legacies is evident in his administration’s focus on infrastructure development, economic transformation, and fostering unity among the people of Ondo State. 

    “One of the most outstanding achievements of his administration is the establishment of the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations. This ministry, led by the capable and dynamic Prince Boye Ologbese, has become a key driver of progress, forged strategic partnerships and engaged the Ondo Diaspora community for the benefit of the state. 

    “Transforming Ondo State Achievements Worth Celebrating Under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, the Ministry of Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations has spearheaded initiatives that have elevated Ondo State as a model of sustainable development and economic growth. 

    “The Diaspora Smart City, tagged the “Green Economy Initiative”, is a shining example of the governor’s vision for the future. Designed as a “Mini Dubai” within Ondo State, this ambitious project spans 70 hectares and incorporates state-of-the-art infrastructure, green technologies, and eco-friendly practices. The Diaspora Smart City will not only attract local and foreign investors, but also serve as a tourism hub, creating thousands of jobs and positioning Ondo State as a leader in sustainable urban development. 

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa declares Friday work-free for Ondo council poll

    “Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration achieved a significant milestone with the approval of the operating license for the Ondo Deep Sea Port in May 2023. This port which is expected to become operational soon, will transform Ondo State into a critical player in Nigeria’s maritime industry, opening up international trade opportunities and significantly boosting the state’s economy. 

    “Beyond these monumental projects, the governor’s commitment to engaging the Diaspora community has been exceptional. The establishment of the NiDCOM Southwest Annex Office in Ondo State has strengthened the relationship between the state and its Diaspora, fostering trade, investment, and knowledge transfer. His administration has also championed regional integration through partnerships with organizations like the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), Commission and collaborations with neighboring states to drive economic growth. 

    “Aiyedatiwa’s administration has not only focused on infrastructure and economic transformation, but also prioritized the welfare and empowerment of the youth. Through proactive measures to combat irregular migration and human trafficking, his administration has provided safer and more productive opportunities for the people of Ondo State. 

    “Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s impact goes beyond policies and projects. He is a leader who listens to his people, understands their needs, and works tirelessly to improve their lives. His humility, resilience, and dedication to service have earned him the love and respect of the people of Ondo State and beyond. Under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti State, business integration between Ondo and Ekiti was approved. It’s the first of its kind since the establishment of the state.

    “Under the green economy initiative, we’re working tediously on how to introduce electric car as taxi in the two city capital, Akure and Ado Ekiti respectively, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti State . 

    “As he celebrates his 60th birthday, we reflect on the qualities that make him a truly exceptional leader; his ability to inspire, his commitment to excellence, and his deep love for his people. Governor Aiyedatiwa is not just a governor; he is a visionary who is laying the foundation for a brighter future for Ondo State. 

    “Goodwill Messages to Our Dear Governor On this special occasion of your 60th birthday, we the people of Ondo State extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. Your leadership has brought unparalleled progress to our dear state, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. 

    “Your visionary projects, like the Diaspora Smart City and the Ondo Deep Sea Port, are testaments to your determination to make Ondo State a beacon of hope and prosperity in Nigeria. Your unwavering dedication to engaging the Diaspora, and fostering regional integration has strengthened our state’s economy and opened doors to new opportunities. 

    “We celebrate not just the milestones you have achieved, but the lives you have touched and transformed. Your humility, integrity, and passion for service embody the true essence of leadership. As you step into this new chapter of your life, may you be blessed with good health, wisdom, and many more years to continue your great work. 

    “As we celebrate the 60th birthday of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, we are reminded of the profound impact one leader can have on the lives of many. His achievements are not just milestones; they are legacies that will stand the test of time. 

    “Ondo State is better, stronger, and more united because of your leadership. We join hands to wish you a joyful and memorable 60th birthday. May your journey ahead be as remarkable as the one you have led so far.”

  • LG polls: Aiyedatiwa votes, calls PDP’s withdrawal cowardly act 

    LG polls: Aiyedatiwa votes, calls PDP’s withdrawal cowardly act 

    Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has described the withdrawal of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), from the ongoing Ondo State Local Government Election, as an act of cowardice.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Leye Igbagbo, Ondo PDP Director of Media and Publicity, announced the withdrawal of the party from the election in a statement on Thursday.

    Aiyedatiwa said this on Saturday while speaking with newsmen after casting his vote at polling unit 5, Ugbo Ward 4, in Ilaje Local Government Area.

    The governor, who said he was not privy to the reason for PDP’s withdrawal, said the party participated in all the qualification process of the election

    “For PDP to to pull out, that is cowardice. They participated in the whole process. ODIEC released the time table for the election on time, I don’t know the reason for that (withdrawal).

    “Maybe the fear of losing. Every election has its own logistics and other political parties are participating, so whatever reason that made them withdraw, I am not privy to that,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa also described the election as a step towards enhancing grassroots development.

    The governor reiterated the commitment of his administration to the effective running of the local government system in the state in line with the provisions of the law.

    Aiyedatiwa commended the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) for the seamless conduct of the poll and thanked the people for participating in the election.

    “I just cast my vote without any crisis, this is just what happened on the Nov.16 governorship election which was adjudged to be free and fair.

    “The materials arrived early and the security and citizens are here. They are participating and at the end of the day, just as we have in the last election, we don’t expect anything else,” he said.

    Also in Owo Local Government Area, Mr Ondo state Deputy Governor, Mr Olayide Adelami, the Ondo State Deputy Governor voted around 9:45 a.m at Igbooroko Unit 16, Ward 3 in Owo.

    Adelami, who praised the electorate for the turnout, urged them to vote massively for APC.

    (NAN) 

  • Aiyedatiwa declares today work free

    Aiyedatiwa declares today work free

    • PDP candidates reject party’s withdrawal

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has declared today work free day, to enable public servants travel to their communities to participate in tomorrow’s local government election.

    A statement by Chief Press Secretary to Aiyedatiwa, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said the governor urged stakeholders to ensure a free, fair and peaceful local government election across the state.

    Police Commissioner Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi has announced restriction of vehicular and motorcycle movements during the exercise.

    He, however, said security personnel, medics, health workers, fire-fighters and other essential service providers were allowed movements to carry out their duties.

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    Some chairmanship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have kicked against the decision of the party to withdraw from tomorrow’s local government poll.

    They said they were not consulted before the notice of withdrawal was sent to Ondo Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) 72 hours before the election.

    Speaking at a news briefing in Akure, a PDP chairmanship candidate, Oluwatuyi Adekambi, described the withdrawal from the election as a failure of the PDP leadership.

    He said the candidates prepared for the election without substantial support from the party.

    According to him, “we invested heavily—both financially and emotionally—in this process. We paid for forms, followed all procedures, and dedicated ourselves to this election. Elections are costly, even at the local government level, and we have spent significant resources campaigning and engaging with the community.

  • Aiyedatiwa declares Friday work-free for Ondo council poll

    Aiyedatiwa declares Friday work-free for Ondo council poll

    Ondo Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared Friday work-free to enable public servants travel to their various communities to participate in the Saturday’s local council elections.

    A statement by Chief Press Secretary to Aiyedatiwa, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said the Governor urged all stakeholders to ensure a free, fair and peaceful local government election across the state.

    Ondo Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, announced restriction of vehicular and motorcycle movements within the period when the election would be conducted.

    The Ondo CP advised commuters who may have a reason to use the state as a passage to adjust their plans ahead of Saturday.

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    He, however, said security personnel, medics, health workers, firefighters and other essential service providers were allowed free movements to carry out their duties.

    According to him: “We urge all legible voters to abide by the rules guiding the electoral process while carrying out their Civic duty.

    “The Command is also using this medium to warn intending miscreants who may want to cause mayhem on the said day to stay clear as all machineries are in place to nip any untoward act as they raise their ugly heads.

    “Adequate security has been emplaced for both human and material resources to ensure smooth passage of the process.”

  • Aiyedatiwa sacks commissioners, special advisers

    Aiyedatiwa sacks commissioners, special advisers

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has dissolved the executive council (exco) with immediate effect.

    He, however, exempted two members of the exco from the dissolution, “due to critical nature of their duties.”

    A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, listed the two as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Aiyedatiwa sacks commissioners, special advisers

    The statement directed affected exco members to hand over government property in their possession to the accounting officers of their ministries.

    Aiyedatiwa thanked the exco members for their service and contributions to the development of the state, wishing them well in their future endeavours.