Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has cut short his annual leave to participate in and oversee the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
The Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday confirmed receipt and approval of the governor’s notice of early resumption from leave.
At plenary, Deputy Speaker Hon. Muhammad Fadeyi, who presided on behalf of Speaker Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, read and acknowledged Makinde’s resumption letter.
Makinde, who had initially taken leave from August 29 to September 29, 2025, said the historic and culturally significant coronation compelled him to cut short his vacation and return to duty.
“I shall resume duty tomorrow, 26th September 2025, and hereby assume the full functions of the office of Governor of Oyo State,” the letter read in part.
The Governor also expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, for serving as Acting Governor during his absence and announced that the Deputy governor would now return to his substantive role.
Members of the House welcomed the Governor’s decision and expressed support for his commitment to the cultural heritage of the state.
The plenary unanimously adopted the resumption notice and commended Governor Makinde for showing leadership and honouring a momentous occasion in Ibadanland’s history.
The session also reaffirmed the House’s support for traditional institutions and lauded the proactive steps taken by the Executive to ensure a smooth coronation ceremony.
The media office of the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland and Oyo APC guber aspirant, Oloye Saheed Oladele, has carpeted Oloye Akin Alabi, the Honourable member representing Egbeda/Ona Ara Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, over a statement he made recently.
In a viral video, Oloye Akin Alabi, while making a speech during an event at a gathering of the Egbeda League of Imams and Alfas, suggested that Oyo people would reenact the pattern of voting APC at the federal level and PDP in Oyo State as was done in 2023, in 2027.
Oloye Oladele frowned at the statement made by the third term seeking Federal Rep, at a time when efforts are being made to unite and strengthen Oyo APC.
He bemoaned that his unguarded utterances at the event have dampened the spirits of the party faithful more.
“At a time true party members are healing from the wounds of the losses of the 2023 guber election and the recent Ibadan North bye election to the PDP, the Honourable chose to hurt their feelings further by bringing back the bitter experience of the circumstances that led to the avoidable losses of the elections.
Oloye Oladele, through his media office, said the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Rep is free to join Governor Seyi Makinde to be able to secure the House of Representatives ticket from the PDP for his third tenure, stating that Oyo APC would not miss him one bit.
Oloye Oladele reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not need Governor Seyi Makinde to win Oyo State in the next presidential election in 2027.
According to the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland, “All President Tinubu needs to do is to put forward as APC governorship candidate a marketable person and a unifier who will be fair to all and sundry irrespective of region. Once Asiwaju is able to get this right, 2027 presidential and governorship elections will be a smoothsail for APC in Oyo State.”
The Media Office took a swipe at the PDP, which he said has lost popularity among Oyo people because its government has plunged the state into generational debt burdens and sold off the masses’ treasured ancestral lands.
Oladele advised the Honourable to retract his statement and apologise to Oyo APC and its teeming members.
An aspirant for the Oyo State governorship ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Wasiu Abiola, has described the ₦300 billion loan recently approved by the Oyo State House of Assembly as a “campaign paycheck” for Governor Seyi Makinde.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday after paying a condolence visit to the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, over the loss of his mother, Dr. Abiola criticised the process leading to the loan approval, calling it unconstitutional and an “insult to the collective intelligence” of Oyo residents.
“Why would an assembly recall itself from recess to pass a loan whose purpose was not in the best interest of the Oyo State people?” he questioned.
He urged lawmakers to prioritise the welfare of their constituents, insisting there was no justification for such a massive loan when states are experiencing increased federal allocations.
“Money received by Oyo State from the federation accounts has tripled. The people of Oyo State should reject this act of Mr. Governor,” Abiola noted.
Dr. Abiola further alleged that Governor Makinde’s loan plans were politically motivated, saying, “It is no longer hidden that Governor Seyi Makinde is interested in contesting for the presidential ticket of the PDP in 2027. This ₦300 billion loan is a fund he hopes to channel to that aspiration”.
The APC chieftain also condemned what he called the “inhumane” policies of the Makinde-led administration regarding Gbagi Market, while accusing the government of dispossessing rightful stall owners and reselling spaces to the highest bidders.
“How can a stall of less than one square meter be charged ₦4 million? This is condemnable, and this practice must stop immediately.
“Bola Ige International Market has been a place of calm and blessings for our mothers and fathers who engage mostly in selling clothes. Why would a governor turn the market into a place of pain and sorrow?” he questioned.
Recall that the loan was approved on August 19 and finalised on August 26, 2025, during an emergency plenary session held while the House was on its six-week recess, a move that drew criticism from some lawmakers, who described the approval process as flawed.
The House, however, responded that due notification of the emergency sitting was sent to all lawmakers.
It further justified the loan, explaining that ₦149 billion was allocated to refinance an existing facility with a commercial bank, while ₦151 billion represented a new request to fund infrastructure projects and contractors’ financing.
Oyo State House of Assembly has received and acknowledged a letter from Governor Seyi Makinde, notifying it of his intention to proceed on one month leave from August 29 to September 29.
The letter, which was read at yesterday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, was in compliance with Section 190 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which mandates the governor to transmit a written notice to the House before proceeding on vacation.
In the letter, Governor Makinde conveyed his request for leave and formally handed over the responsibilities of the office to Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, who will serve as acting governor throughout the vacation.
“I hereby transmit that during the period indicated above, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, shall serve as acting governor. I shall resume duty upon my return from vacation on Monday, September 29,” the letter read in part.
Ogundoyin acknowledged the letter and assured of the House’s support for a smooth transition of duties in the governor’s absence.
He said the House remained committed to constitutional order and the continuity of governance.
With the governor’s formal notification and the Assembly’s affirmation, Lawal is expected to assume full responsibilities of the office from Friday until Governor Makinde resumes on September 29.
The Oyo State House of Assembly has acknowledged a letter from Governor Seyi Makinde notifying lawmakers of his plan to proceed on a one-month leave from Thursday, August 29, 2025, to Monday, September 29.
The letter, read during Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin complied with Section 190 (1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which requires governors to formally inform the legislature before proceeding on leave.
Governor Makinde stated that Deputy Governor Barrister Bayo Lawal would assume duties as Acting Governor throughout the period.
“I hereby transmit that during the period indicated above, the Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, shall serve as Acting Governor. I shall resume duty upon my return from vacation on Monday, 29th September 2025,” the letter partly read.
Speaker Ogundoyin assured the Assembly’s support for a smooth transition and reaffirmed the House’s commitment to constitutional order and governance continuity.
Barrister Bayo Lawal is expected to take full charge of the governor’s duties from August 29 until Makinde’s return on September 29.
The Assembly will reconvene for plenary on September 16, 2025.
Governo Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to exploring modern technologies to improve and transform agricultural practices in the state.
He spoke through his deputy, Bayo Lawal, on Monday, while receiving, on a courtesy visit, Chinese investors from China Overseas Engineering Group Co. Limited at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan.
The governor noted that investments in agriculture development and value chain are part of the vision of the present administration to expand the economy of the state and attract more investors.
He added that the state has a comparative advantage in agriculture and has also invested in enablers such as infrastructure and security, calling on the Chinese investors to partner with the state government to guarantee food security, boost agricultural productivity and make the state a hub for agro-industrial processing, which he noted, would generate thousands of employment opportunities and improve revenue drive.
He assured that the government would provide an enabling environment to support the investors’ vision of partnering with the state.
Lawal said, “On behalf of His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, let me formally welcome you to Oyo State. I was really excited that you are coming to Oyo State with the sole purpose of partnering with us and with the view to lifting our economy.
“The DG OYSIPA hinted that your core competence is in agriculture. When I also interacted with the DG OYSADA to validate the statement made, he also confirmed that your core competence is in agriculture.
“And really, when you made your presentation this afternoon, I found out that you are here to make some workable progress in areas of agriculture, be it crop, poultry, animal husbandry, and so on. So, you are highly welcome to Oyo State.
“As a state government, it means that we can do business together. The infrastructural development that we have in place, settlements that can attract further agricultural development, and even our hospitable people around here, all of those are available to our investors.
“Any race or country that ignores the production of food to feed its citizens is in peril. So, that is why you’re coming, and the area of competencies that you seem to be giving to us is very attractive.
“You are bringing technology to improve the value chain. We may be giving land, security, and infrastructure as our contribution, if you so choose. It all depends on the model that you put on the table, which will be mutually beneficial to the two parties. But what is important, what you are priding, what you are selling, is agric-technology.
“What we have in Oyo State, as I have said, is land. So, if you are looking for land, in order for you to bring about the technology that you are bringing from China, we have it in large quantities in our state.
“The size of Oyo State is equal to the size of five states in the south-eastern part of Nigeria. In other words, if you do business with our state, it is like you are doing business with five states in Nigeria in terms of land mass.
“Fortunately, in our state, we have rainforest vegetation like we have in Ibadan around here. You have almost Sahel vegetation up north of our state. And, in between, you have another vegetation that can support all kinds of agric practices. So, it is not just cassava or rice. You can look at other opportunities that can support the kind of vegetation that we have in our state.
“Let me also say that the governor of Oyo State, if he travels out looking for investors, I think 90 per cent of his journeys target investments in agribusiness and the agriculture value chain.
“So, we stand ready in Oyo State to embrace whatever technology to improve our system, particularly the agric system that we practise in our state to lift us from primary subsistence agricultural practices to industrial and commercial agric enterprises.
“Currently, we are establishing Agribusiness Hubs around the state. The first one is Fasola, and I hope you will be there very shortly. Eruwa, if time permits, you will be there. And then recently, we have Ijaye. Actually, less than a month or so ago, the President of the African Development Bank was here in Oyo State to flag off the Ijaye Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone. That’s just about 30 kilometres away from this spot. So, all of these are geared towards a strong commitment to agricultural development in Oyo State.”
Also in his remarks, the Director General, Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Dr Debo Akande, appreciated the Chinese team’s vision and mission, which he noted, aligned with the state’s agriculture strategies.
He noted that rural transformation, building industrial hubs and development of agro-processing zones in the state are geared towards taking comparative advantages of the state in agribusiness to expand the economy.
He called for a mutual relationship that would benefit all partners, saying: “Your vision, plans, and your mission are well understood and we are clear about them.”
He added, “Your vision aligns with the direction that we are going already as a state. Why did I say this? In the last close to seven years, the key area that the state has focused on under the leadership of His Excellency, the Governor of the State, has primarily been on how to take advantage of our comparative advantage in the state, which, as everybody probably knows, is agriculture and agribusiness.
“We have a strategy that we developed that speaks to the agribusiness development of our state. And one of the critical components for us is that we understand that there is nothing like agricultural transformation without rural infrastructural transformation.
“So, we have been working on that. But even added to that, under the leadership of Governor Makinde as well, we are expanding rural roads beyond what we currently have. We have 1,200 kilometres of rural road under the RAAMP project that needs to be done.
“You will even possibly see the construction ongoing at the Ikere Gorge Dam that you are going to tomorrow.”
Earlier, the team lead, who is also the Director, Strategic Services, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Abuja, Alhaji Abubakar Yerima, commended Governor Makinde for transforming the state through laudable infrastructural projects and investment in agribusiness.
Also speaking, the leader of the Chinese team, Ms Dong Gwping, stressed that the team’s intervention is expected to revolutionise the agricultural landscape by stimulating socio-economic growth and development in the state for a complete value chain with the provision of Chinese technologies and expertise for partnership.
The event also had in attendance the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Hon Adeniyi Adebisi; Director-General, Oyo State Investment Public-Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA), Mr Tilewa Folami; Permanent Secretaries from the two agencies present, Mr Adewale Bolarinwa and Alhaji Kolawole Badmus and the Assistant Director, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, South-West Zonal Office, Mr Samuel Ajewole, among others.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the sum of N45 million for the Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OYSACA) to further curb the spread of HIV/AIDS across the state.
The governor spoke through his deputy, Bayo Lawal, at the inauguration ceremony of OYSACA Ambassadors, held at the OYSACA Conference Room, Agodi, Ibadan.
He explained that the funds, alongside the recent approval of the purchase of HIV test kits, are targeted at strengthening the Agency’s capacity to combat the epidemic.
The governor, while inaugurating the ambassadors, including Chief (Dr.) Saka Balogun; Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu; Chief (Mrs.) Mutiat Ladoja, Alhaji Rasaq Adeleke, Hon. Wale Saminu and Hon. Shina Peller reaffirmed their administration’s commitment to improving public health and reducing the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the state.
He said that the ambassadors, who were carefully selected, will assist in raising awareness and support the government in its efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in the state.
He congratulated the newly appointed Ambassadors and admonished them to lend their influence and networks to the campaign against the spread of HIV/AIDS.
“The inauguration of the ambassadors marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a public health threat.
“As an ambassador, you are not just a representative; you are the champions of change, you are the voices for those who have been silent, the beacon of hope for those in darkness, and the catalyst in a more inclusive and compassionate society.
“Your roles will inspire truth, promote education, and ultimately save lives.
“I commend OYSACA for these initiatives, which underscore the importance of community engagement and leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Your efforts will undoubtedly contribute to reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and ensuring everyone has access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care.
“The governor put a man of experience, Dr. Gbola Adetunji, in charge of this agency. We sought him because of his tremendous experience in the area of healthcare deliveries, not only in Oyo State but in Nigeria.
“And to give effect to the assignment given to him, the Government has recently approved the purchase of HIV/AIDS test kits so that it will aid or assist the ambassadors we are inaugurating today. “Secondly, the Government has just approved the release of 45 million naira to the agency for furtherance of the activities of the agency.
“As we embark on the journey together, let us work tirelessly to ensure that our efforts yield tangible results that will leave no one behind. Let us strive to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to make informed decisions about their health and where those living with HIV/AIDS are supported and embraced. The present administration has made health one of the pillars since the first term, and also as part of the sustainable development program in the Omituntun 2.0.
“The ambassadors are carefully selected; it is not just a random picking to be our ambassador to drive this project, and I thank you for accepting to serve.
“They are eminent personalities who have impacted our society positively, and we want them to give more to society.
Earlier in his welcome address, the chairman of OYSACA, Dr. Gbola Adetunji, commended the governor’s proactive approach, stressing that the funds would enhance the agency’s capacity to reach high-risk populations and deliver life-saving services more effectively.
He said the inauguration of the Ambassadors was a new chapter in the annals of the agency to seek further cooperation between the government and distinguished individuals to enhance the fight against HIV/AIDS in the state.
He appreciated the commissioner for health, all the development partners, Global Fund, APIN, Society for Family Health, and a host of others for their various support for the agency.
The newly inaugurated Ambassadors pledged their support for the initiative, promising to use their platforms to educate, inform, and mobilise communities in the fight against stigma and the spread of the virus.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has presented a brand new Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) to gospel singer and broadcaster, Yinka Ayefele, following a fire incident that ravaged Fresh FM’s headquarters in Ibadan.
The governor’s gesture came after he visited the station to commiserate with Ayefele and assess the damage caused by the fire, which destroyed property worth millions of naira.
During the presentation ceremony, the governor praised Ayefele’s resilience and contributions to the entertainment industry and media growth in Oyo State and Nigeria.
Represented by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, Makinde handed Ayefele the keys to the new SUV, describing him as a symbol of perseverance and inspiration to millions of Nigerians.
He said, “On behalf of the State Governor, Makinde, and the State Government, we are here to commiserate with you. You are a symbol of perseverance and inspiration to millions of Nigerians.
“On behalf of the Governor and the state government, we present this gift to you.”
Ayefele was visibly moved by the gesture, grateful for the governor’s support during this challenging time.
Anambra: APGA battles APC for late Ifeanyi Uba’s successor
Oyo: Can APC floor Makinde’s PDP in Ibadan North?
Kaduna: PDP, ADC take on Uba Sani in Kajuru/Chikun
In reality, only 1.09 per cent of the 1,467 national and state legislatives seats will be at stake in today’s by-elections in parts of the country.
But the political parties and their key actors are looking beyond the figures.
From the newly installed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Prof. Nentawe G. Yilwatda to House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abass, Governors Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Charles Soludo (Anambra), Seyi Makinde (Oyo),Uba Sani (Kaduna),Dapo Abiodun (Ogun),ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party Rabiu Kwankwaso, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, this is one contest that can enhance or ruin relevance ahead of 2027.
It is a litmus test for the governors of Edo, Anambra, Oyo, Ogun and Kaduna governors, where high-profile battles will be fought, and for Yilwatda who is leading the APC troops in his first major task as national chairman.
Observers believe that a strong showing by the APC will further strengthen President Bola Tinubu’s foothold on the political landscape, while victory for crisis-ridden PDP could re-energise the party with more optimistic projections. And for smaller parties like ADC and LP, winning even one seat would be a morale booster.
At stake are two senatorial seats, one each in Edo and Anambra; five House of Representatives seats and nine state assembly seats.
The by-elections are scheduled for Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kogi, Niger, Ogun, Oyo, Taraba and Zamfara States.
In Adamawa, five candidates are vying for the House of Assembly in Ganye. In Anambra, 12 candidates are slugging it out for the Anambra South Senatorial District seat, which became vacant with the death of Ifeanyi Ubah a year ago, while five candidates are running for the Onitsha North 1 state House of Assembly seat.
In Edo State, eight contestants seek to occupy the Edo Central Senatorial District seat vacated by
Governor Okpebholo, while eight others are vying for the Ovia North East/Ovia South West House of Representatives position.
Jigawa State has 11 contenders for the Babura/Garki House of Representatives seat, Kaduna has nine gunning for a similar position in Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency while Zaria/Kewaye state constituency has six contestants.
APC, PDP and ADC candidates are contesting the Kaduna State House of Assembly seat in Basawa.
In Kano, the Shanono/Bagwa state assembly seat will be contested by 10 candidates, while in Kogi State, five political parties are fielding candidates for the House of Assembly seat in Okura and five are also contesting a similar seat in Munya, Niger State.
In Ogun State, eight contestants are slugging it out for the House of Representatives seat in Ikenne/ Sagamu/ Remo North federal constituency while in neighbouring Oyo State the battle to represent Ibadan North Federal Constituency will be fought by the APC, PDP, ADC, APGA and ZLP.
In Taraba, the three political parties are fighting to take the House of Representatives seat in Karim Lamido Federal Constituency while 14 political parties are jostling to represent Kaura Namoda South in the Zamfara State House of Assembly.
Additional polls that were not listed on INEC website are the two court-ordered re-runs which INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun said would take place in Enugu South I (Enugu) and Ghari/Tsanyawa (Kano) after previous attempts were disrupted by violence. INEC’s initial plans for by-elections in Rivers’ Khana II and Zamfara’s Talata Mafara South constituencies remain suspended owing to security and legal issues.
The APC National Chairman visited Ogun and Edo states on Thursday and met with Governors Abiodun and Okpebholo to “tighten our preparedness and strengthen our winning strategies.”
Yilwatda, in a post on his X handle @nentawe1, said: “The energy and determination I saw among our leaders and members on the ground filled me with renewed confidence that the APC is ready to deliver decisive victories.
“Our mission as a party is about service, unity and the shared dream of a greater Nigeria.
“In this defining moment, I call on all APC members and supporters to stand as one, work tirelessly and keep faith in our collective strength.
“Victory is not just possible; it is certain when we march forward together with purpose and conviction. Our unity will deliver our victory.”
The APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, said the party committed the same energy accorded the general elections to the by-elections.
“We are prepared for the by-elections in all the 16 constituencies. The same commitment we give to the general elections is what we are giving to off-season elections. August 16 election is no exception,” he told The Nation.
“With the level of our preparation, we are optimistic of victory. We are optimistic that we shall be victorious in almost all the constituencies come Saturday, August 16.”
Kaduna: El-Rufai, PDP take on Uba Sani
Historically, Kaduna State has always been the epicentre of power politics in the country, and the active involvement of Governor Sani, his predecessor El-Rufai and HoR Speaker Abass in the campaigns for their candidates in Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, Zaria/Kewaye state constituency as well as Basawa state constituency is already causing anxiety across the state.
Former governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been working round the clock to ensure victory for the ADC-led opposition coalition candidate for House of Representatives in Chikun Local Government Area, Mr. Alex Adamu, taking the campaign to Kujama, Rido and Nassarawa wards, and for ADC candidates in Zaria/Kewaye and Sabon Gari.
Since breaking ranks with the APC, he has been in the vanguard of the opposition to the ruling party and is determined to prove that he is still a force to reckon with in the state.
But some ADC members led by the state chairman, Ahmad Tijjani Mustapha, are resisting the former governor and his supporters who they accused of seeking to hijack the party from the ‘original’ members.
Mustapha declared in a statement on Thursday night that the ADC was not in any alliance with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for the purpose of the election.
He said the ADC would contest the elections independently and had not formed any formal or informal coalition with other political parties.
He emphasised that no agreement—written or verbal—exists between the ADC and the SDP regarding the upcoming polls.
“The ADC in Kaduna State is not in any coalition or alliance. We remain focused on our campaign and encourage our supporters to vote for ADC candidates,” Mustapha said.
Governor Sani, who has won to his side many frontline politicians in the state since he assumed office, is also determined to prove his worth as a formidable force.
Observers say recent defection of political heavyweights in all parts of Southern Kaduna into APC can make all the difference for the ruling party.
The generality of the people of Southern Kaduna appear to be comfortable with the Sani administration, with many of them saying the governor has addressed their complaints of marginalization.
His campaign focused on the relative peace in a state that had practically being taken over by bandits prior to his swearing in as governor.
Speaker Abass, an indigene of the state, joined in the campaign for the APC, mobilising the people for the election.
Abass on Thursday led the grand finale of the APC campaign for the Zaria Kewaye State Constituency.
It was a five-hour rally rounded off with a drive through the streets of Zaria Kewaye, including Tudun Wada, Tukur-Tukur, Kufena, Dutsen Abba and Filin Idin Katsinawa.
“With the mammoth crowd that attended the grand finale of the campaign rally, I am convinced that victory shall be ours come Saturday,” he said on his X handle Hon Abbas Tajudeen, PhD. @SpeakerAbbas
Sani, a former civil rights activist, grew up at great distance from ethnic and religious discrimination that plagued some of his predecessors.
Edo: APC, PDP in supremacy battle
The Edo Central Senatorial District seat was vacated by Governor Okpebholo (APC) who has been pulling all the strings to ensure that the seat remains in his party.
Fresh from what political foes tried to define as a controversial victory in the 2024 governorship election, Governor Okpebholo faces his first electoral test as APC leader in that contest and that of the Ovia North East/Ovia South West Federal Constituency.
Despite PDP’s keen preparations and its use of the incumbency factor during the Edo State governorship elections, Okpebholo roundly defeated PDP at the polls and in the courts.
The PDP wants victory in the elections badly if only to prove claims by its leaders that it was robbed of the governorship last year.
Candidates for the election in Edo Central are Hon Joseph Ikpea (APC) Prince Joe Okojie (PDP) and Hon Sergius Ogun (ADC).
The candidates for Ovia Federal Constituency in Edo South are Barrister Omosede Igbinedion (APC) Aikpitanyi Johnny (PDP) and Dr. Osayuki Asemota (ADC).
Other political parties in the race are the Action Alliance (AA), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Democratic Party (ADP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The APC seems to have the edge in Ovia Federal Constituency owing to the coming together of two former rivals – Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and Barrister Igbinedion. Idahosa edged out Barrister Igbinedion from the House of Representatives in 2019 and defeated her again in 2023.
Idahosa hails from Ovia South West while Igbinedion hails from Ovia North East. The Igbinedions are a strong political family. Their patriarch, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, is responsible for many developmental projects in both local government areas.
Edo Central used to be the stronghold of the PDP until Governor Monday Okpebholo broke the jinx in 2023 to become the first elected APC Senator from the district. Okpebholo personally led the APC campaign in Edo Central.
The PDP had also campaigned effectively across the five local government areas. Candidate of the PDP, Prince Joe Okojie, hails from Uromi, the community with the highest number of voters in Edo Central.
The defection of PDP leaders ahead of the by-election may affect the chances of the party in today’s election.
Meanwhile, Edo State Chairman of the PDP, Tony Aziegbemi, has raised the alarm over alleged plot by the APC to subvert the will of the people.
He said credible intelligence showed a multi pronged plan involving inducement of voters with cash, smuggling of prewritten result sheets into collation centres and the use of the Nigerian Police Force to unlawfully deny duly accredited PDP agents access to collation centres.
Aziegbemi said the party uncovered plans to unleash armed thugs to violently disrupt voting in PDP strongholds.
“This brazen move is aimed at producing a violent and manipulated outcome that bears no resemblance to the true will of the people. Democracy is about the will of the people freely expressed at the ballot box, not the will of desperate politicians imposed at gunpoint,” he said in a statement.
Anambra: Soludo’s APGA,APC,Obi’s candidate slug it out
How much influence does Peter Obi still wield in his home state of Anambra ahead of 2027? The answer will emerge today when his candidate, Donald Amamgbo of Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) faces APC’s Azuka Okwuosa and APGA’s Emmanuel Nwachukwu in the Anambra South Senatorial by-election.
The late Ifeanyi Uba won the seat in 2023 on the platform of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) but defected to the APC.
Governor Soludo, who has an axe to grind with Obi, is doing all he can to get it for Nwachukwu while the APC is leveraging on Uba’s political machinery.
The Labour Party (LP) on whose platform Obi contested the 2023 election as presidential candidate is raging that he forsook the party to campaign for ADC candidates this time around.
Factional chairman of the LP, Julius Abure, branded Obi delusional and mischievous for asking voters to go for ADC candidates when Labour Party candidates are on the ballot.
“It is unfortunate that Obi has turned himself into an irony and a paradox in the Nigerian political space,” Abure said.
“He is now reputed to have elevated subterfuge in the game of politics and has of late been crying wolf where there is none.
“He has turned himself into an ‘Uber’ politician, not willing to take a position and stand by his decision.
“He has now booked a place for himself in the Guinness Book of Records as a person affiliated with many political parties at the same time, all in his desperation to preside over Nigeria.
Obi has been flirting with ADC. He said his decision to campaign for ADC candidates was because the LP has no candidates recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) amid an internal crisis.
Police Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun has deployed Assistant Inspector General of Police, Godwin Eze, as the Supervisory Officer to Anambra for the two by-elections in the state.
While addressing the Officers at state Police headquarters on Thursday, he made it clear that only the police and other recognised government security outfits will take part in the elections.
The implication is that the security outfits set up by the Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, namely, Agunechemba and Operation Udo Ga Achi, will not be allowed to operate while the elections are on.
He said:”Consequently, all vigilante operatives, hunters and other quasi-security outfits are strictly prohibited from any form of engagement during the exercise.
“Furthermore, to ensure a safe and hitch-free election, there shall be restrictions on vehicular movement from 6am to 6pm in the affected areas throughout the election period.
“The areas include Nnewi North and South, Orumba North and South, Ekwusigo, Aguata and Ihiala local government areas respectively, for the Anambra South Senatorial District.
“Others are Onitsha North Constituency 1 as well as Awka South Local Government Area where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Headquarters is located.”
Abiodun, Adebutu rekindle rivalry in Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North
The stakes are no less high in Ikenne/Federal Constituency of Ogun State where the state governor Dapo Abiodun and the PDP governorship candidate in 2023, Ladi Adebutu, are back in the trenches to test their popularity ahead of 2027.
Both Abiodun and Adebutu are from Remo.
The governor is rooting for APC’s Princess Sola Elegbeji while Adebutu is all for PDP’s Bolarinwa Oluwole. The seat was won in 2023 by APC’s Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga a.k.a. Ijaya.
Onanuga died last year.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, has also thrown his weight behind Elegbeji, describing her as “the right choice at the right time.”
Adeola, who represents Ogun West, said Elegbeji is “an apostle of the progressive doctrines of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo,” and “a true scion of Remo Federal Constituency whose political philosophy is rooted in service, equity, and enlightenment.
“Princess Sola Elegbeji is not just a candidate—she is a continuation of a legacy,” Adeola said.
“She has subscribed fully to the tenets of the Renewed Hope Agenda as championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun. Her emergence is a convergence of history, competence, and vision,” he added.
The APC regards the election a must win as it wants to prove that it is firmly in charge in the state. The governor, Dapo Abiodun, and top members of the state chapter of the APC are leaving nothing to chance.
On its part, the PDP wants to win the contest to prove that it is a formidable force in the state.
Oyo: Can APC topple Makinde’s PDP in Ibadan?
Governor Makinde has a lot to prove in the Ibadan North state constituency by-election today.
For a man regarded as one of the current backbones of the PDP believed by some to be nursing presidential ambition in 2027, there would be no better opportunity than now to show his strength.
And he needs a decisive win to make his point.
Power Minister Bayo Adelabu, who has his eyes on the 2027 governorship ticket of the APC, is also being looked upon by party members to demonstrate his relevance in his home town.
Barau woos voters in Kano
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin led APC stakeholders to Shanono to woo voters ahead of the Shanono and Bagwai state constituency by-election.
The by-election is to fill the vacancy created by the demise of Halilu Kundila, a member of the APC.
Barau appealed to the people to vote for Ahmed Kademu, the APC candidate, in appreciation of the Tinubu administration’s reforms.
House of Representatives member Kabiru Abubakar from Bichi Constituency urged the people to support the APC candidate for a brighter future.
He highlighted the party’s commitment to developing the constituency, including a pledge to construct N10 billion worth of rural roads.
Kano State is controlled by the NNPP and is the home state of its leader Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Barau is determined to prove his relevance by delivering the election for the APC.
In Taraba, it is Kanda versus Shittu
For the Karim Lamido Constituency, Taraba State, the contest is between Ali Kanda (PDP) and Abner Shittu (APC). Both of them are greenhorns.
The constituency has been assailed by insecurity in the last three months. Thousands of lives have been lost and property destroyed by armed militias.
Ahead of the by-election, APC set up a 55-man campaign council.
It is headed by Senator Abdulazeez Yari, with Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as vice chairman.
But the PDP, which controls the state, said it is not perturbed.
Dogari, Bawa, Adabyinlo poised for showdown in Niger
Gaje Dogari (APC), Joshua Bawa (ADC) and Sunday Sabo Adabyinlo (PDP) are poised for a showdown in Munya state constituency of Niger State.
APC Publicity Secretary Hon. Labaran said the party would win because the Governor Bago administration has not disappointed the state.
The ADC Chairman, Mohammed Yahaya, however disagreed, saying that his party would win.
SDP to participate in by-elections, says INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday announced a last-minute inclusion of the Social Democratic Party in the list of parties participating in the by-elections.
Spokesman for the commission, Sam Olumekun, said this followed the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja ordering the commission to accept the list of candidates presented by the party.
The Commission said it did not include the party at the initial stage because SDP did not notify it of the conduct of party primaries and therefore did not monitor same as required by law.
The statement reads: “The Commission has been served with the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1525/2025.
“In the judgment, the Commission was ordered to include the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidates in the by-elections in 12 states of the federation. The party did not earlier submit a valid notice for the conduct of primaries for the by-elections. For this reason, they were not monitored by the Commission.
“However, in compliance with the judgment, the names of the candidates submitted manually have been accepted and published on our website. The party will participate in the by-elections.
“The Commission wishes to assure the public, especially voters in the 12 states, that the 11th-hour judgment will not affect the election which will proceed tomorrow Saturday, 16th August, 2025 as scheduled.
“Meanwhile, the Commission will exercise its legitimate right of appeal under the law.”
Materials for the election were being moved to the various local government areas yesterday as the commission intensified its preparation for the polls.
The Commission has accredited 60 local and four foreign election observers including the European Union delegation whose names have been published by the commission to monitor the election.
INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu assured Nigerians on Thursday that the commission was fully prepared for the by-election, with personnel and sensitive materials being deployed.
In his speech during INEC’s last consultative meeting with political parties, Prof. Yakubu stated that deaths, resignations and other factors necessitated the declaration of vacancies and the need for by-elections.
In a statement on Thursday, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, gave assurances of INEC’s preparations for smooth conduct of today’s polls, noting that 3,553,659 registered voters are eligible to participate across 32 local government areas, 356 wards, and 6,987 polling units.
Altogether, 30,451 officials have been deployed nationwide, even as INEC prepares to resume nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise on Monday, August 18, with online pre-registration, followed by physical registration from August 25 at 811 INEC state and local government offices.
Police restrict movement in affected states
The Police authorities ordered restrictions on all forms of vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 12 am to 6 pm today within localities where the by-elections are taking place.
The only people exempted are those on essential services including INEC Officials, accredited media and electoral observers, ambulances responding to medical emergencies and firefighters.
Police Inspector General Egbetokun directed the deployment of operational logistics to the affected local government areas in Anambra, Kano, Oyo, Taraba, Enugu, Adamawa, Edo, Jigawa, Kogi, Kano, Ogun, Zamfara and Niger states.
In order to ensure smooth elections, the IGP has also directed the deployment of senior officers of the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police and Commissioners of Police to assist state Commissioners of Police to ensure proper supervision of the electoral process for a smooth and hitch-free election.
Also deployed are officers and men of the Police Mobile Force, Special Intervention Squad, Force Intelligence Department and other tactical units.
Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who signed the statement, said all security aides to VIPs and escorts are not allowed to accompany their principals and politicians to polling booths and collation centres during the election.
He added: “State-established and owned security outfits/organisations, quasi-security units, and privately-owned guards and security outfits are also barred from participating in election security management.
“The Inspector General of Police hereby charges all officers deployed for this special duty to ensure compliance with NPF standard operational protocols for elections and further urges all citizens to be law abiding during and after the elections and assures that all necessary security arrangements have been emplaced to ensure their right to vote is unobstructed.”
Police commissioners in Oyo and Kogi States also announced their readiness for the day.
The Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani Socio-Cultural Association in Oyo State has appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to temper justice with mercy in the enforcement of the state’s Anti-Open Grazing Law through the Oyo State Rule of Law Agency.
Speaking with journalists in Ibadan, the association’s state chairman, Alhaji Sanni Muhammed, lamented that many of their cows and members have been arrested, detained, and fined in recent months. He claimed that, over the past six months, Fulani herders across the state have faced what they consider persecution by the agency.
Muhammed urged Governor Makinde to personally intervene to prevent an impending crisis, warning that the current enforcement approach could threaten the survival of their members in Oyo State.
He alleged that cattle ranches are often raided in the early hours of the morning and accused individuals claiming to be state agents of demanding daily cash transfers from members under unclear circumstances.
“The enforcement of the new laws appears, in many cases, to be accompanied by acts that can only be described as discriminatory and unjust, creating fear and tension among our people.
“We believe firmly that no group of citizens should be subjected to discrimination, injustice or jungle justice.
“While we fully respect the authority of the Oyo State Government to make laws, we appeal that such laws be implemented in a fair, transparent, and humán manner, without jeopardising the livelihood of an entire community.
“Your Excellency, Who are we to challenge the government? We are only appealing as loyal citizens for understanding, justice and protection. We urge your Excellency to direct relevant agencies to investigate the alleged illegal cash demand and harassment of our members.
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“We call for the review of the enforcement approach of the anti-cattle rearing law to ensure it does not amount to targeted discrimination.
“We want you to engage in dialogue with our leadership to find peaceful, sustainable solutions that safeguard both public interest and the livelihood of our members.
“We pledge to remain lawful, cooperative, and loyal to your administration and the laws of Oyo State. We trust that in your wisdom and compassion, we will give urgent attention to this clarion call before the situation escalates.
“We, the members of Miyetti Allah Kauta Hore, Oyo State Chapter, a duly registered Fulani social-cultural association committed to the well-being of our members and the progress of Oyo State, urge the Governor with utmost humility and respect to seek your urgent intervention in matters affecting our livelihood, dignity and peaceful coexistence
“We are proud to be law-abiding, peace-loving and responsible citizens who have, over the years, contributed to the economy and food supply of our dear state.
“We have always held you in high esteem as a listening leader among the governors for the masses. We are predominantly cattle rearers by heritage, a trade passed down for generations, in most cases, the only means of livelihood known to our members. We have consistently carried out our activities lawfully and in a manner that respects the peace and unity of the state.”
Also, the Southwest Women Leader of the Association, Hajia Aminat Idris and chairman of the National Association of Cattle Dealers Processors and Marketers of Nigeria, Alhaji Dauda Adebayo, said as a Nigerian and law-abiding citizen of the state, they also contributed to the socio-economic development of the state.
The duo, however, said the association will shut down all cattle markets across the state if the government fails to attend to their plight within two weeks.
