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Tag: ONDO

  • Tragedy as ‘mad man’ overpowers, stabs civil defence officer to death in Ondo 

    Tragedy as ‘mad man’ overpowers, stabs civil defence officer to death in Ondo 

    Tragedy struck on Thursday at Oba-Ile in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State after a “mentally deranged” man allegedly stabbed an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to death.

    The Nation gathered that the incident occurred when the deceased officer, whose identity had yet to be disclosed, attempted to restrain the violent suspect who had been causing unrest in the community.

    According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect’s mother had invited two NSCDC operatives to help manage her son, who had reportedly battled severe mental illness for years.

    One eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity, said the situation escalated when one of the officers attempted to chain the man to prevent further disturbances.

    Read Also: Nnadozie named Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, Bounou wins Men’s award

    He said during the struggle that ensued, the suspect allegedly overpowered the officer, seized his knife, and stabbed him multiple times.

    “The boy (mentally deranged) suddenly became violent. He struggled with the officer, took his knife, and stabbed him several times. It was shocking because the officer was armed, yet he could not prevent the attack,” the witness said. 

    He further noted that the severely injured officer was rushed to a hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival due to the deep wounds he sustained.

    A spokesman for the NSCDC in the state, Daniel Aidamenbor, confirmed the sad incident when contacted via his phone. 

    Aidamenbor said the officers had been trying to restrain the suspect with the intention of taking him to a psychiatric hospital for treatment when the attack occurred.

    He, however, described the incident as a tragic development that happened during efforts to safeguard both the suspect and members of the community.

  • Adefarati, a pillar of development, says ex-Ondo lawmaker Ogunbi

    Adefarati, a pillar of development, says ex-Ondo lawmaker Ogunbi

    A former member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Abiodun Ogunbi, has applauded the lawmaker representing Akoko South West/South East Federal Constituency, Hon. Adegboyega Adefarati, for his continued commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents.

    Ogunbi, a two-term lawmaker and former chairman of Akoko South-West Local Government, described Adefarati as “a strong pillar whose immense contributions to human and community development are immeasurable.”

    He stated this on Tuesday in a congratulatory message to celebrate the federal lawmaker’s birthday.

    Ogunbi particularly commended Adefarati’s plan to empower students in the constituency with laptops and support widows with cash gifts as part of the birthday activities.

    He said the initiative reflects the lawmaker’s dedication to uplifting the lives of the people.

    He urged constituents to continue to demonstrate unalloyed support for Adefarati, noting that his leadership has strengthened the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area and across the state.

    According to Ogunbi, Adefarati’s representation in the House of Representatives has been defined by wisdom, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to unity and progress.

    “His impact is felt not only within the party but across the constituency, the state, and the nation as a guidepost of stability and direction,” he said.

    Ogunbi prayed for God’s continued protection over the lawmaker, wishing him good health, long life, and renewed strength to keep serving humanity.

    “On your birthday, I pray that Almighty God continues to grant you good health and renewed strength to carry on with your diligent work. May you continue to grow in wisdom and grace. Congratulations and happy birthday to you, sir,” he added.

  • Infrastructure, public finance take lion’s share as Aiyedatiwa presents N492bn 2026 budget in Ondo

    Infrastructure, public finance take lion’s share as Aiyedatiwa presents N492bn 2026 budget in Ondo

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has presented a budget estimate of N492,795,667,939 for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly.

    The presentation came amid a simmering leadership crisis in the Assembly following an alleged plot to impeach the speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, over accusations of financial mismanagement.

    Twelve lawmakers had last week passed a vote of no confidence in the Speaker, accusing him of diverting N50 million earmarked for a public hearing and mismanaging monthly operational grants.

    But Oladiji dismissed the allegations as a “misplaced priority,” insisting the Assembly would not be distracted from its legislative responsibilities, including the amendment and passage of the re-ordered 2025 Appropriation Act.

    Presenting the 2026 budget proposal tagged “Budget of Economic Consolidation,” Aiyedatiwa said his administration remains focused on delivering people-centred projects and programmes across the state.

    He announced that N281.991 billion is proposed for capital expenditure, while N210.804 billion is earmarked for recurrent expenditure.

    A breakdown of sectoral allocations shows infrastructure receiving the highest vote of N131.991 billion (26.80%), followed by public finance with N89.607 billion (18.20%). The health sector is to receive N69.641 billion (14.10%), while education gets N63.878 billion (13.00%).

    Aiyedatiwa said the 2026 spending plan signals the state’s transition from “restoration to sustained long-term consolidation,” adding that measurable gains recorded in 2025 despite revenue shortfall, would be deepened.

    With a recurrent-to-capital ratio of 42.78% to 57.22%, the governor said the budget reflects his administration’s commitment to transforming the state’s socio-economic landscape.

    “From the allocation above, Mr Speaker, our intention on the infrastructure revolution is clear. We look forward to completing the plethora of ongoing projects across the state, as adequate funds have been allocated to them. Rest assured, no project in Ondo State will be left abandoned,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa urged lawmakers to give the spending plan thorough consideration, assuring that his administration is committed to efficient implementation.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa turning Ondo into industrial hub, says Akande

    “We anticipate that 2026 will bring significant progress, prosperity, and well-being to our citizens,” he added.

    Remarking, Rt. (Hon.) Oladiji lauded the governor for the timely presentation of the budget to the assembly, saying the leadership qualities of Aiyedatiwa is exceptional.

    The speaker specifically commended the governor for intervening in the impasse in the House of Assembly, adding that the lawmakers have already put their house in order.

    He reiterated to the state legislature to full performance of their oversight functions to ensure the success and full implementation of the 2026 budget as presented to the House by Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    The Speaker, who assured the Governor of an accelerated passage of the 2026 budget proposal, charged all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies involved in the execution and implementation of the budget to redouble their efforts to ensure outstanding success.

  • Police nab ‘most wanted’ four suspected kidnappers in Ondo

    Police nab ‘most wanted’ four suspected kidnappers in Ondo

    The Ondo State Police Command has arrested four suspected members of a gang involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, and ritual practices at Ogbese in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    Olayinka Ayanlade, the spokesman for the police command, disclosed the arrest of the suspects in a statement issued to journalists in Akure on Monday.

    Ayanlade said that the suspects, led by one Ifeoluwa Julius, had long been on the command’s watch list for alleged involvement in violent crimes in the area.

    He revealed that operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit tracked the suspects to the outskirts of Ogbese following intelligence that they had returned from a location where they allegedly procured charms to fortify themselves for future attacks.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa turning Ondo into industrial hub, says Akande

    According to him, the coordinated operation led to the arrest of Julius and three members of his gang.

    Ayanlade said the items recovered from the ringleader included an expended cartridge, fetish materials, and blood-stained red and white cloth.

    He added that during interrogation, Julius allegedly confessed to being a ritualist and admitted, along with his gang members, to involvement in several kidnapping incidents in the Ogbese area.

    He also confirmed that he and his gang had travelled to obtain more charms to bolster their criminal activities.

    Ayanlade, however, added that the suspects would be charged in court following the completion of investigations.

  • Panic over ‘loud explosion’ near Owo bank

    Panic over ‘loud explosion’ near Owo bank

    Residents and passersby were thrown into panic on Saturday after a loud explosion occurred near a commercial bank in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The sound reportedly sent people scampering for safety as thick smoke briefly rose from the scene, forcing traders to flee and nearby shop owners to hastily shut their doors.

    The scare comes barely two weeks after the Department of State Services (DSS) alerted the Nigerian Army to an alleged plot by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States.

    Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Olayinka Ayanlade, said investigations revealed that the explosion was caused by a loud firecracker purchased from a nearby supermarket.

    Ayanlade said a suspect, identified as Ayoola Daniel Ojumu, has been arrested and allegedly confessed to his involvement, while his accomplice who allegedly ignited the device is still at large.

    “The disturbance was caused by a banger purchased from a nearby supermarket. One Ayoola Daniel Ojumu of Owo has been arrested in connection with the incident and has confessed to his role” he said.

    He added that the suspect would be charged to court after investigation is concluded. 

    Ayanlade urged parents and guardians to caution their wards, especially before and during the festive season, warning that the command would not hesitate to take decisive action against any attempts to breach public peace.

    He also called on residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.

    The incident occurred against the backdrop of a confidential DSS letter warning of “imminent attacks” by ISWAP terrorists in Ondo and Kogi States.

    The letter, addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, listed Eriti-Akoko, Oyin-Akoko and Owo town among targeted communities. It stated that intelligence confirmed plans to carry out coordinated attacks “anytime soon.”

    Last week, panic also spread in the Akungba-Akoko community following rumours that Boko Haram members had invaded the area.

    However, the Students’ Union Government of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), dismissed the claims as false and capable of causing unnecessary fear among students and residents.

  • Tinubu hails take-off of Nigeria’s first methanol factory in Ondo

    Tinubu hails take-off of Nigeria’s first methanol factory in Ondo

    President Bola Tinubu has applauded the commencement of full operation at the Indigenous Methanol and Ammonium Bicarbonate plant located in Ondo state, describing it as a milestone in local chemical and fertilizer production in the country. 

    The Chinese-owned SuperTech Chemical Industry Limited operates the facility, which is the first indigenous Methanol and Ammonium Bicarbonate plant in Nigeria. 

    The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo disclosed this on Sunday during a site tour and inspection of the SuperTech Methanol and Ammonium Bicarbonate Plant at the Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub, Omotosho, in Ore,.Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

    Ekpo, who was accompanied by top officials of the NNPC Ltd and other key industry stakeholders, said the project aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which envisions natural gas as a driver of industrial growth, innovation, and sustainable job creation.

    According to the Minister, the plant has the capacity to produce 100,000 metric tons of methanol and 160,000 metric tons of ammonium bicarbonate annually- marking a historic leap for Nigeria’s gas-based industrialization.

    “Moving around and seeing the kind of investment that has come into this place is encouraging. They are taking advantage of our natural gas resources to produce methanol and ammonium bicarbonate.

    “I have also charged the NNPC representatives here to ensure upstream production takes advantage of this methanol output to support and grow this company.

    “Mr. President is pleased that investors are using our gas resources to develop the economy. The Federal Government will give them all necessary support to scale production from the current 100,000 metric tons to the projected 500,000 metric tons by 2026,” Ekpo said.

    He lauded the relocation of the entire production facility from China to Nigeria and its 100% mechanical completion as of March 2025, describing it as a testament to the resilience and technical competence of the project promoters.

    “The relocation of this entire plant from China to Nigeria – and its full mechanical completion – speaks volumes about the determination and technical capacity of the promoters. It is a shining example of what’s possible when government policy aligns with the private sector initiative.

    “This facility is not only the first of its kind in Nigeria but also a vital addition to our downstream gas value chain, unlocking new opportunities for chemicals, fertilizers, and industrial inputs crucial to manufacturing and agriculture,” the minister added.

    Speaking during the inspection, Mr Yang Jijiang, Chairman of SuperTech Chemical Industry, said the project demonstrates the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s industrialization and energy transition agenda.

    Read Also: 2027: Rep. Jibrin dumps NNPP for APC, declares support for Tinubu

    Mr Jijiang explained that since commissioned of the facilities, Supertech has met its daily and monthly production capacity, demonstrating commitment to excellence and reliability. 

    According to him, the plant is positioned as Nigeria’s pioneer methanol producer, leveraging advanced facilities and strong partnerships to meet local esnd and drive industrial growth. 

    He added that the SuperTech Methanol and Ammonium Bicarbonate Plant is expected to play a vital role in Nigeria’s quest for gas-based industrialization, job creation, and export diversification.

    “With strong support from the Federal and Ondo State Governments, NNPC Ltd, GACN, and NMDPRA, we have turned vision into reality,” he said. 

    Mr Jijiang noted that SuperTech is proud to contribute to job creation, technology transfer, and deeper cooperation between Nigeria and China. 

    Also speaking, Dr. Alexander Ajipe, Principal Consultant to the Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub, commended the Minister’s visit as a major morale booster for the Chinese investors.

    “This project is a great achievement for Ondo State and Nigeria. We are now producing fertilizer and methanol locally, reducing our dependence on imports,” Ajipe said. 

  • Ondo PDP chieftain defects to APC, begins grassroots mobilisation for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ondo PDP chieftain defects to APC, begins grassroots mobilisation for Tinubu’s re-election

    A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Hon. Morufu Tosin Ibrahim, has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    Announcing his defection in Irun Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area, Ibrahim – popularly known as Murphy – said his political focus is now centered on ensuring President Tinubu’s continuity in office beyond 2027.

    According to him, his decision to join the APC and the increasing wave of support for the party across communities were not products of formal campaign activities but an organic expression of satisfaction with President Tinubu’s performance in office.

    “I am here to make sure that Oke-Irun Surulere Ward is moving ahead and faster. I also want to rally round for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At the grassroots, we are mobilising for him.

    “I want to make sure 2027 is assured for President Tinubu. I have begun with my various groups to canvass support for him from the grassroots,” Ibrahim stated.

    The former PDP stalwart commended President Tinubu for demonstrating exemplary leadership, noting that his economic reforms were beginning to yield positive results across the country.

    He pledged to work tirelessly to mobilise grassroots support for the President and strengthen the APC’s base across Ondo State while urging party members to remain united and steadfast in preparation for future elections.

    Receiving the defector, the APC Chairman of Irun Ward 7, Mr. Lasisi Ajongbolo described Ibrahim’s defection as a major boost for the party and President Tinubu’s 2027 ambition.

    Ajongbolo praised Ibrahim as “a big pillar” whose selfless contributions to community development transcend political affiliations.

    “His coming to the APC is an added advantage that will improve our chances ahead of the 2027 elections. There is no other party in this community than APC.

    “Hon. Ibrahim is driven by compassion and a genuine desire to uplift others. He has continued to invest heavily in humanitarian and community development projects.

    “His decision to come home and identify with his ward and community marks a new chapter of unity and leadership,” he said.

    He added that the warm reception Ibrahim received in his political ward was a reflection of the immense love and trust his people have in him.

    “Hon. Morufu Tosin Ibrahim, described by many as a visionary, compassionate, and people-oriented leader, is regarded as part of a new generation shaping the future of Ondo State politics.

    “Ibrahim (Murphy) is more than a name; he is a movement of hope, an embodiment of integrity, and a symbol of transformational leadership.

    “His journey inspires faith in the power of vision, compassion, and service to humanity,” Mr Ajongbolo said.

  • Mother, daughter abducted in Ondo

    Mother, daughter abducted in Ondo

    A mother Mrs.Salami Blessing and daughter, Miss Precious Salami, have been abducted in Ondo State. 

    The family said they were kidnapped from their home at No. 7 Idoani, Akoko, Ondo State, on September 18th, 2025.

    Mrs. Salami Blessing, 65, is dark-skinned and about 5 feet 3 inches tall while the 22-year-old daughter is also dark-skinned and stands approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall. 

    Both women are fluent in English and Yoruba.

    The family called on security forces to help secure their release. 

    “Anyone with credible information regarding their whereabouts is urged to contact the nearest police station immediately or reach out through any available security channels.

    “We plead for their safe return and call on the public to support efforts to locate them,” the family appealed. 

  • JUST IN: Security operatives arrest suspected killers of three farmers in Ondo

    JUST IN: Security operatives arrest suspected killers of three farmers in Ondo

    A combined team of security operatives has apprehended the suspected killers of three local farmers murdered at Ala in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, The Nation can report. 

    The suspects, who were reportedly dressed in army camouflage, were arrested in an “overnight operation” that extended into the early hours of Tuesday. 

    The joint team, comprising operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Amotekun Corps, carried out the operation deep inside the forest.

    Pictures of the suspects being dragged into an Amotekun security van have begun to circulate on the social media on Tuesday morning. 

    A security source who preferred not to be named confirmed the arrest, disclosing that authorities have intensified patrols across the area to prevent further attacks and reassure residents of their safety.

    “The suspects are now in custody for further investigation,” the source added.

    The Southern Nigeria Youth Congress (SNYC) had on Monday raised alarm over what it described as the “senseless attacks and killings of local farmers” by suspected armed bandits in Akure North LGA.

    In a statement in Akure, the group revealed that no fewer than three farmers were killed at Ala, in the Igbatoro area of Akure North, by bandits terrorising the axis.

    Read Also: Youths kick against killing of three farmers in Ondo

    According to the statement signed by the group’s spokesperson, Afe Adegboyega, the killings were “heart-wrenching and unacceptable.”

    “The murder of hardworking farmers is a painful reminder that many farming communities remain unsafe despite repeated assurances from security agencies. 

    “Our farmers are the backbone of local food production. When they can no longer go to their farms without fear, our collective survival as a people is threatened.

    “The time to act is now before insecurity consumes more innocence,” the statement read. 

  • Youths kick against killing of three farmers in Ondo

    Youths kick against killing of three farmers in Ondo

    A group, the Southern Nigeria Youth Congress (SNYC), has raised the alarm over what it described as the “senseless attacks and killings of local farmers” by suspected armed bandits in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    In a statement yesterday in Akure, the group said that no fewer than three farmers were murdered at Ala in the Igbatoro area of the council by bandits terrorising the axis.

    No fewer than 20 farmers have been killed in Akure North LGA within the past seven months, amid a wave of criminal activities by suspected armed bandits terrorising the area.

    According to the statement signed by the group’s spokesperson, Afe Adegboyega, the killings of the local farmers were “heart-wrenching and unacceptable.”

    The group noted that the murder of hardworking farmers was a painful reminder that many farming communities remain unsafe despite repeated assurances from security agencies.

    Read Also: Arzikin Noma: pact with NALDA to boost food security, curb inflation

    “Our farmers are the backbone of local food production. When they can no longer go to their farms without fear, our collective survival as a people is threatened. The time to act is now before insecurity consumes more innocent lives,” he said.

    SNYC lamented the rising insecurity that continues to threaten the peace and livelihood of rural dwellers in Akure and its environs.

    It called on all security agencies – particularly the Amotekun Corps – to rise to their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property rather than engaging in internal wrangling and factional disputes.

    The group further urged improved collaboration between security agencies, traditional rulers, and local vigilante groups to strengthen intelligence gathering and surveillance in rural communities.

    “As youth representatives, the congress reaffirms its commitment to standing with the people of Ala Igbatoro and the entire Akure Kingdom in demanding accountability, protection, and peace,” it added.

    The group also urged the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration, the Chairman of Akure North Local Government Area, and the member representing Akure North in the Ondo State House of Assembly to urgently intervene and ensure justice for the slain farmers.

    The group stressed that decisive action must be taken to prevent a recurrence and to reassure citizens that their safety remains a top government priority.