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Tag: Ondo state

  • Ondo landlady allegedly poisons tenant’s three-year-old son

    Ondo landlady allegedly poisons tenant’s three-year-old son

    A landlady identified as Nafisat Leteef has been arrested for allegedly poisoning his tenant’s three-year-old son in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    Mrs Lateef, 40, was nabbed following complaints by the mother of the child, Rofiyat Musibau, 32, to operatives of the Odigbo Police Division on Tuesday.

    According to a statement released to journalists in Akure yesterday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said the suspect, who is the complainant’s landlady, allegedly gave the toddler, identified as Abdulrasheed, a liquid substance.

    Abayomi explained that the substance suspected to be poisonous, was given to the boy as a result of a misunderstanding between the two women, who both lived at Omifon in Odigbo Local Government Area.

    He disclosed that the investigation into the case revealed that the child started vomiting shortly after consuming the substance and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where he received medical treatment.

    “The act was reportedly carried out following a misunderstanding between the complainant and the suspect, who is the complainant’s landlady.

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    “Shortly after consuming the substance, the child began vomiting and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he received medical attention.

    “Police detectives, during a swift and intelligence-led operation, arrested the suspect. In the course of investigation, the detectives also recovered the liquid substance,” he said.

    Abayomi added that the suspect is now in police custody and has allegedly made useful statements, stressing that further investigation was ongoing on the case.

    “The case will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation,” he said.

    The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, called on the residents of the state to avoid escalating landlord-tenant disputes, noting that such disagreements often lead to poor co-existence and, in some cases, criminal acts.

  • Ondo must reform tax system, end illegal levies to drive growth, says Oyedele

    Ondo must reform tax system, end illegal levies to drive growth, says Oyedele

    …announces N500k scholarship for best graduating student of every public secondary school in Ondo State 

    …50 years a milestone to shape Ondo’s future – Gov Aiyedatiwa

    Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has called on the Ondo state government to overhaul its tax administration, abolish multiple and illegal levies, and strengthen fiscal institutions to unlock sustainable economic growth.

    Mr Oyedele, who was the guest lecturer at the state’s 50th anniversary celebration, themed “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” spoke on Monday in Akure. 

    He said a modern, transparent, and predictable tax system remains fundamental to building a strong economy, warning that inconsistent policies and burdensome taxation discourage investment and weaken government revenue.

    According to him, nuisance taxes and overlapping levies shrink businesses and push investors away.

    Oyedele recommended that Ondo host the National Tax Ombud office for the South-West to provide an independent platform for resolving tax disputes and protecting taxpayers’ rights.

    He also advised the state to urgently implement the new national tax reform acts and enact a State Tax Harmonisation Law to streamline revenue collection across ministries, departments and agencies.

    “Implement the new tax reform acts, enact the State Tax Harmonisation law to curb nuisance and illegal taxes. The state can even host the national Tax Ombud office for the South-West region to lead in taxpayer rights and protection,” he said.

    The tax cyzar further proposed the introduction of an annual Tax Accountability Report to every taxpayer and the development of a comprehensive State Tax and Fiscal Policy Framework to guide revenue mobilisation, spending and debt management.

    To promote transparency at the grassroots, Oyedele urged each local government council to prepare economic development plans and publish budgets and audited statements on a dedicated online portal.

    He also called for improved tax registration, simplified regulatory charges and harmonised public services to reduce bureaucracy and make compliance easier for residents and businesses.

    Beyond taxation, Oyedele stressed the need to strengthen the Ministry of Finance to properly manage state assets and investments through a comprehensive assets register to track and optimise public wealth.

    He noted that strong fiscal management, policy consistency and institutional stability are key to long-term prosperity.

    “Better revenue administration must translate to improved public services such as stable electricity, poverty reduction and job creation,” he added.

    He also emphasised the need for structured platforms to help young people transition from job seekers to entrepreneurs.

    Oyedele, however, announced a Golden Jubilee scholarship of N500,000 for the top graduating student in every public secondary school this year.

    In her keynote address, the President’s Special Adviser on Energy, Mrs Olu Awolowo Verheijen, lauded the contributions of farmers, teachers, civil servants, artisans and entrepreneurs to the state’s development.

    She highlighted gas infrastructure, the revival of the Odigbo power plants and modular LNG projects as catalysts for industrial growth.

    Verheijen also cited major projects including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, road expansions in Akure, teaching hospital upgrades and the proposed Ondo Deep Sea Port as investments that would create jobs and boost revenue.

    Read Also: Individuals must file tax returns by March 31, employers, January 31 – Oyedele

    “Value addition is the foundation for job creation, revenue generation and the dignity of our people,” she said.

    Declaring the lecture open, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa outlined a vision for the next 50 years centred on industrialisation, innovation and youth-driven growth.

    “Fifty years is not just a number. It is a milestone that challenges us to shape the next era with wisdom, courage and innovation,” the governor said.

    He listed key projects such as the Sunshine Free Trade Zone, Golden Ceramics Industrial Plant, Ore Ethanol Plant and the Ondo Deep Sea Port as initiatives aimed at expanding industrial processing and export capacity.

    Aiyedatiwa also highlighted investments in roads, bridges, and energy infrastructure, alongside scholarships, vocational training, and digital literacy programmes targeted at empowering youths.

    In his welcome remarks, Secretary to the State Government and anniversary committee chairman, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, described the celebration as nostalgic and emotional, noting that distinguished citizens, including elder statesmen, would be honoured during the golden jubilee.

  • How Ondo became an ‘oil-producing’ state, Olanipekun reveals

    How Ondo became an ‘oil-producing’ state, Olanipekun reveals

    …as Aiyedatiwa pledges inclusive growth, economic development

    A renowned legal luminary and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, has revealed how Ondo State secured its status as one of Nigeria’s oil-producing states in Nigeria.

    Chief Olanipekun, an erstwhile Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, also attributed the breakthrough to the vision and strategic efforts of the late former governor of the Old Ondo State, Evangelist Bamidele Olumilua.

    The Nation reports that Ondo, which is one of the few Southwest states in the country that produces crude oil primarily offshore, contributes a modest but important share to national output, producing over 60,000 barrels per day (bpd).

    Speaking on Monday at a public lecture themed “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome), Akure, as part of activities marking Ondo State’s 50th Anniversary, Olanipekun said the late Olumilua laid the foundation through deliberate planning and teamwork for the state to become “an oil-producing state.”

    He also revealed that the late Olumilua constituted a team comprising his then deputy, Dr Olusegun Agagu; and then Commissioner for Health, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; and himself as Attorney-General, to vigorously pursue federal recognition for the state to become an oil-producing country.

    The legal practitioner added that when the state first presented its case, the then Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Clement Akpamgbo (SAN), advised that Imo and Abia states be included to strengthen the agitation.

    According to him, although the process suffered a setback following the exit of General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime in 1993, the committed team of state officials from the state later engaged the then Head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan.

    He added that Shonekan eventually visited Ondo and publicly pronounced the state an oil-producing one, effectively sealing the recognition.

    Olanipekun described Olumilua as the visionary who consistently referred to Ondo as “our Canaan,” noting that his courage and foresight positioned the state for economic advantage.

    He, however, lamented that the former governor had not received adequate recognition for his contributions.

    The legal luminary also described the former governor, Dr Mimiko, as a “living legend,” advising Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to tap into his wealth of experience as the only surviving civilian governor of the state.

    Remarking, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the golden jubilee was both a celebration and a moment for reflection and planning.

    Aiyedatiwa highlighted the state’s transformation from its agrarian roots in cocoa, oil palm, timber, and fishing to value addition and industrialisation.

    He cited projects including the Sunshine Free Trade Zone, Golden Ceramics Industrial Plant, the Ethanol Plant in Ore, and the proposed Ondo Deep Sea Port.

    Read Also: Why Ondo is yet to generate, distribute electricity independently, by Aiyedatiwa

    The governor added that tourism, education, skills development, and diaspora engagement remained central to his administration’s growth strategy.

    He, however, called on citizens to contribute through entrepreneurship, innovation, and civic responsibility, stressing that development was a collective task.

    “As we look ahead to the next fifty years, our vision is bold, inclusive, and ethically anchored. We envision an Ondo State where economic prosperity is broad-based and sustainable; where education produces innovators, ethical leaders, and problem-solvers; where infrastructure supports growth, inclusion, and environmental stewardship; where governance remains responsive, transparent, and accountable; and where social cohesion is strengthened by shared values and civic pride. 

    “This future will be driven by economic diversification, technology and innovation, human capital development, and strong institutions, being some of the thematic areas that our Distinguished Guest Lecturer is eminently positioned to illuminate.

    “It is, therefore, our expectation that this Public Lecture will transcend academic discourse. It must inspire action, partnership, and accountability. Together, we must harness our natural and human resources responsibly; invest deliberately in our youth; preserve our moral and cultural foundations; and build enduring partnerships across government, the private sector, civil society, and the global community.”

  • Firm offers free medical outreach in Ondo

    Firm offers free medical outreach in Ondo

    As part of activities marking the 20th anniversary of the passing of the Osemawe of Ondo Town, Oba  Festus Ibidapo Adedisewo Adesanoye (Osungbedelola II), a free medical outreach was organised for residents of Ondo, Ondo State.

    The event, sponsored by Veleta Sparkling Fruit Wine and Teezers brands of Intercontinental Distillers Limited (IDL), provided free health care to 350 residents, in line with the late monarch’s legacy of service and community development.

    Services offered included blood pressure and blood sugar checks, BMI and nutritional assessments, malaria screening, eye examinations, PSA screening for men over 40, health counselling and the dispensing of essential medications.

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    According to the Brand Manager, Wines and Bitters, IDL, Celestine Anyanwu, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to impactful corporate social responsibility and preventive healthcare.

    “At Intercontinental Distillers Limited, we believe that meaningful corporate social responsibility should address real needs within our communities. This medical outreach aligns with our values and with the enduring legacy of Oba F.I.A. Adesanoye, whose reign was defined by service to the people. Through Veleta Sparkling Fruit Wine and Teezers, we are pleased to support an intervention that promotes preventive healthcare and improves quality of life,” he said.

    Convener of the outreach, Princess Yewande Amos-Oluwole, described the programme as a tribute to her late father and thanked the companies for their support, noting that the partnership helped bring vital healthcare to the underserved members of the community.

  • Residents protest incessant killings, abduction in Ondo

    Residents protest incessant killings, abduction in Ondo

    •Gunmen abduct woman, injure three

    Angry residents of the Ilu-Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State yesterday protested the killings and abductions allegedly by suspected gunmen in the area.

    The protesters blocked the major Akure-Owo-Benin highway to draw the government’s attention to what they described as persistent insecurity and inadequate response from security agencies.

    Armed with placards bearing various inscriptions, the residents said they had been traumatised and forced to live in fear, chaos, and uncertainty due to repeated violent attacks in the community.

    One of the protesters, Mr Lawrence, said the protest was triggered by the recent abduction of a community member and attacks on three other residents., inxluding hat of a women.

    According to him, the latest incident occurred at Liberty Community, a peaceful settlement on the Akure Expressway in Ilu-Abo, and was part of a long pattern of insecurity that has plagued the area for nearly three years.

    Lawrence explained that the attack occurred between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., when many residents were returning from work or  settled in their homes.

    He said the calm of the community was suddenly shattered when suspected herdsmen reportedly invaded the area, unleashing terror on innocent and defenceless residents.

    “Ilu-Abo has suffered repeated violent attacks for almost three years, and our appeals to the authorities have yielded little improvement in security,” Lawrence said.

    Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, accused security operatives, particularly the police, of insufficient commitment and delayed response to distress calls.

    He alleged that these perceived lapses had emboldened criminals operating in and around the community.

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    The residents called on the government to implement a permanent solution to the crisis, urging security agencies to flush out suspected bandits hiding in nearby forests to restore safety and confidence among residents.

    The state Commissioner of Police (CP) Adebowale Lawal, denied allegations of complicity, insisting that police officers were actively carrying out their duties to secure the area.

    Also, the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen Justin Ifeanyi, appealed for calm and assured residents that security agencies were working to address the situation and bring those responsible to justice.

    Recall that suspected gunmen abducted a woman identified as Oladeinde Tomilola and injured three other persons during a violent attack on Ilu Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

    The incident occurred about 8pm last Sunday on Liberty Avenue in the Ilu Abo when about six armed men reportedly stormed the neighbourhood and opened fire on residents.

    Lawal, who visited the community, condemned the attack and said additional tactical and intelligence-driven measures had been deployed to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators and prevent a recurrence.

    The police commissioner also visited the palace of the Olu Abo of Iluabo, Oba Samuel Oluyemi Falae, who condemned the incident and pledged the support of the palace in assisting security agencies.

  • Expectant woman dies at ‘illegal clinic’ in Ondo

    Expectant woman dies at ‘illegal clinic’ in Ondo

    …quack doctor, wife arrested

    An expectant mother, identified as Ms Iyanu, has lost her life following alleged ‘medical mismanagement’ by unlicensed practitioners operating an illegal health facility in the Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The Nation gathered that the deceased died at an unregistered medical facility allegedly operated by Kehinde Olawuyi (36) and his wife, Eniola Olawuyi, at Orita Odigbo, without the requisite government approvals.

    Confirming the incident on Sunday, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said that the suspects admitted Ms Iyanu on January 4, 2026, at about 12:00 noon for childbirth at the illegal facility.

    According to Abayomi, the suspects allegedly mishandled the delivery process in an unprofessional manner, resulting in the victim becoming unconscious and bleeding profusely.

    He said the woman was rushed to another medical facility in Odigbo for emergency treatment, but efforts to save her proved abortive.

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    “Despite medical intervention, the victim was later confirmed dead. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are not registered medical practitioners and that the facility was being operated illegally,” Abayomi stated.

    The police spokesperson disclosed that the suspects had been engaging in medical quackery, which allegedly led to the woman’s death.

    He added that investigations are ongoing, stressing that the suspects would be charged in court upon conclusion of the probe.

    However, DSP Abayomi warned members of the public against patronising unregistered and illegal medical facilities, urging residents of the state to always seek medical care from licensed and certified health institutions.

    He also appealed to members of the public with credible information that could lead to the arrest of individuals involved in medical quackery to report to the nearest police station, assuring that all information would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

    Recall that the command apprehended one Nasiru Idris for operating an illegal clinic in Ore, also in Odigbo Local Government Area.

    Idris, 25, was allegedly dispensing medical services without being a registered professional.

    His arrest followed an intelligence-led operation by the Command’s Surveillance Team.

    According to the police, a search of the clinic led to the recovery of various medical items, including injection needles, medical drips, bandages, and assorted medical kits.

    “Subsequently, a search of his residence was conducted with a duly signed search warrant, during which used injection bottles, needles, and syringes were also recovered,” the police said in a statement.

    It added that preliminary investigations confirmed that the suspect is not a registered medical practitioner and that the clinic was being operated illegally.

  • Ondo federal lawmakers pledge support for Aiyedatiwa, seek APC unity

    Ondo federal lawmakers pledge support for Aiyedatiwa, seek APC unity

    Federal lawmakers representing Ondo State in the National Assembly have pledged total support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, vowing to work collectively to ensure unity, stability, and effective governance within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

    The lawmakers, all members of the House of Representatives from the State, made the pledge on Friday while being hosted to a dinner by the governor at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Akure.

    At the meeting, the lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to the success of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration and the overall development of Ondo state.

    Those present at the dinner included Hon. Abiodun Derin Adesida (Akure South/Akure North), Hon. Abiola Makinde (Ondo East/Ondo West), Hon. Timehin Adelegbe (Owo/Ose), Hon. Gboyega Adefarati (Akoko South West/Akoko South-East), Hon. Ife Ehindero (Akoko North-East/Akoko North-West).

    Others include: Hon. Festus Akingbaso (Idanre/Ifedore), Hon. Festus Adefiranye (Ileoluji-Okeigbo/Odigbo), Hon. Donald Ojogo (Ilaje/Ese-Odo) and Hon. Jimi Odimayo (Okitipupa/Irele).

    Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers, Hon. Adesida said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government, as well as closing ranks within the APC in the state.

    He said the federal legislators had resolved to ensure unity within the party and support policies that promote effective governance and development.

    The lawmakers stressed that a united APC remains critical to sustaining development and consolidating the party’s hold on Ondo State, noting that internal cohesion would also strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

    They commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for hosting them and praised the developmental strides recorded by his administration across the state.

    Pledging their loyalty, the lawmakers assured the governor of their readiness to put politics aside and continue to contribute their quota to the development of Ondo State and the growth of the APC.

    Aiyedatiwa described the collaboration with the federal lawmakers as a major boost for the state, noting that such synergy is essential for sustaining development and stability in the sunshine state.

    The Governor said his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of the people and the development of the state above political considerations.

    Read Also: Ondo by-election: Aspirants scramble for Jimoh Ibrahim’s seat

    He added peace, unity, and stability in the state should be seen as a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of all stakeholders.

    The Governor also briefed the lawmakers on activities lined up to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo state.

    He expressed delight that all 12 members of the National Assembly from the state, as well as all 26 members of the State House of Assembly, are now members of the APC, describing the development as unprecedented in the state’s political history.

    The Nation report that the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration for development, fostering unity within the APC ahead of the party’s congresses, and aligning federal and state development priorities to ensure Ondo state benefits maximally from federal projects under the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Tinubu.

  • Stop addressing me disrespectfully, 22-yr-old Ondo monarch warns public

    Stop addressing me disrespectfully, 22-yr-old Ondo monarch warns public

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Ondo magistrates, others suspend strike

    Ondo magistrates, others suspend strike

    Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts and Legal Research Officers in Ondo State have suspended their two-week-old industrial action, following agreements reached with the state government.

    The suspension was announced last night in a statement signed by Mrs O. Edwin, Mr Segun Rotiba and Mrs Agbomola.

    Recall that the judicial officers, under the aegis of Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts and Legal Research Officers in Ondo State Judiciary on January 5 embarked on an indefinite strike in pursuit of judicial autonomy and improved welfare.

    In a notice dated January 2, 2026, and addressed to magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts and legal research officers, the coalition directed its members to withdraw their services indefinitely.

    Following the action, courts across the state were shut, as magistrates, customary court presidents and members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) embarked on strike.

    The striking judicial officers accused the state government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, of failing to implement financial autonomy for the judiciary and address long-standing welfare concerns.

    Read Also: ‘Nigeria ready for front seat in global economy’

    In the statement obtained by The Nation in Akure, the judiciary workers said the decision to suspend the strike followed series of meetings and engagements with the executive arm of government led by Governor Aiyedatiwa and other critical stakeholders.

    The engagements, according to the workers, were led by the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the state, Mr Kayode Ajulo (SAN), and involved the leadership of JUSUN, members of the coalition and government representatives.

    They said key issues raised during the meetings were favourably considered by the government.

    The judicial officers noted that after what they described as a “painstaking but realistic agreement,” the government demonstrated also good faith and commitment towards the immediate implementation of financial autonomy and other demands earlier presented.

    Consequently, the coalition directed its members to resume work from today.

    The statement said: “These include the provision of official vehicles for Magistrates and Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts, as well as the introduction of a new salary structure for Magistrates, Customary Court Presidents, and Legal Research Officers.

    “After a painstaking but realistic agreement on all issues, the demonstration of good faith, commitment towards immediate implementation of autonomy for Ondo state Judiciary and other demands raised in our letter, we hereby suspend the withdrawal of services and direct our members to resume work from tomorrow, (Tuesday, the 20th of January, 2026.”

    The judiciary workers commended their colleagues for their commitment throughout the strike and lauded the leadership of JUSUN and Nigerian Bar Association for their support.

    The suspension came barely hours after Ondo State Police Command raised concerns over the lingering strike, warning that it was affecting the prosecution of criminal cases and posing security risks.

    The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, had told reporters in Akure that the industrial action forced the police to release suspects who should have been charged to court, noting that courts across the state had remained shut for weeks.

  • JUST IN: Ex-Ondo deputy governor quits PDP over leadership crisis, set to join APC

    JUST IN: Ex-Ondo deputy governor quits PDP over leadership crisis, set to join APC

    A former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Ambassador Omolade Oluwateru, has resigned from the crisis-ridden Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

    Oluwateru, who served as deputy governor to the late Dr Olusegun Agagu, announced his resignation on Thursday during the celebration of his 79th birthday organised by the Asiwaju Mandate Group in Akure, the state capital.

    The former Nigerian Ambassador to Uganda said his decision to quit the opposition party was informed by the “lingering leadership crisis” rocking the PDP at both the national and state levels, which he described as a lack of direction, foresight, and internal cohesion.

    Oluwateru, who served as deputy governor between 2003 and 2007 and was a former member of the PDP Board of Trustees, specifically accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of worsening the internal crisis within the party.

    “I am not leaving politics completely; I am only leaving the PDP. In another one or two weeks, I will let Nigerians know where I am heading politically.

    “The problem in the PDP has become so serious that it is no longer manageable. Nyesom Wike has reduced the PDP to nothing, and as a responsible person, I cannot continue in the party.

    “I have been in the PDP since 1998. I have never left before, but when the roof of a house is completely blown off, only a few people will remain inside. I have written my resignation letter and submitted it to my ward chairman,” he said.

    Reacting, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Engr Ade Adetimehin, described Oluwateru as a man of integrity and a valuable addition to the progressive family and party in the state.

    Although the former deputy governor did not formally announce his defection to the APC, Adetimehin expressed confidence that he would join the ruling party.

    “Oluwateru is a man of principles and integrity. He is an Omoluabi in the true sense of the word and will add great value to the APC in Ondo state.

    “He was the only deputy governor who never rocked the boat. His loyalty to the late Dr Olusegun Agagu speaks volumes. For him to take this decision today shows that he believes in the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and the direction the country is heading,” Adetimehin said.

    Also speaking, the Director-General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Mr Muyiwa Asagunla, congratulated Oluwateru on behalf of the group and the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, describing him as humble, loyal, and diligent.

    Asagunla said the former deputy governor’s life and political career were worthy of emulation, adding that his decision to join the opposition PDP signalled a major collapse in the crisis-ridden party.

    “He was twice awarded the most diligent deputy governor during the Agagu administration, with the last award presented by a former acting president.

    “He is loyal, humble, and peaceful. There was never any rancour between him and Governor Agagu throughout their tenure. Even at 79, he remains very agile. His decision today marks a significant political shift after staying with the PDP since its formation in 1998,” he said.

    Read Also: Tinubu greets APC stalwart, Hafiz Kawu, on birthday

    Asagunla, however, added that Oluwateru’s exit from the PDP signalled a major blow to the opposition party in Ondo State.

    The group later presented gifts to the celebrant on behalf of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, as well as a separate gift from the Minister of Interior, in appreciation of his contributions to public service.

    Sources who spoke to the Nation under the condition of anonymity said the decision by Ambassador Oluwateru to leave the PDP is to clear the way for his official defection to the ruling APC in the state.

    “His decision to quit PDP is to join his ally and supporters who have all moved to the APC. So, very soon, he would announce his major defection to the ruling APC,” one of the sources said.

    The event was attended by leaders and stakeholders of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, including Barrister Corporal Nana Opri, State Secretary; Barrister Ade Pelemo, Director of Legal Matters; and Engineer Babatunde Gbalajobi, Director of Special Duties, among others.

    Also present were notable political figures, including Chief Segun Adegoke, a former APC state chairman; Hon Saka Yusuf, former Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development; and Mrs Olubunmi Ademosun, former Special Adviser to late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu on Public and Intergovernmental Relations.