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AKINGBASO PICKS NOMINATION FORM, SIGNALS BID FOR RE-ELECTION IN IDANRE/IFEDORE Hon. Festus Akingbaso, the incumbent member representing Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has obtained the nomination and expression of interest forms ahead of the 2027 general election. The development indicates Akingbaso’s intention to seek another term in the National Assembly, as political activities gradually gather momentum toward the next electoral cycle. Sources within the constituency note that the lawmaker’s move is expected to shape early alignments among party stakeholders and supporters, with consultations and strategic engagements likely to intensify in the coming months. Akingbaso, who currently serves in the House of Representatives, has been associated with legislative efforts and constituency-based initiatives during his tenure. Observers say his decision to pursue re-election may prompt renewed debate on performance, representation, and development prior...

SENATE DECLARES ONDO SOUTH SEAT VACANT AS JIMOH IBRAHIM TAKES UN APPOINTMENT The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has officially declared the Ondo South Senatorial District seat vacant following the appointment of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. The announcement was made during plenary on Tuesday at the National Assembly in Abuja. Akpabio explained that the declaration became necessary after Ibrahim, who previously represented Ondo South in the Senate, took up his new diplomatic role, thereby creating a vacancy in the legislative seat. In line with constitutional provisions and electoral laws, the Senate President directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election within 30 days to fill the vacant position. He also instructed the Clerk of the National Assembly to formally transmit the Senate’s resolution to INEC for immediate action. The development is expected to trigger political activiti...

ONDO GOVERNMENT DISSOLVES BOARDS OF KEY PARASTATALS, COMMISSIONS AS TENURES EXPIRE The Ondo State Government has officially announced the dissolution of the boards of several key parastatals and commissions following the expiration of their tenures. In a press statement issued on April 28, 2026, the government confirmed that the decision takes immediate effect and affects major institutions across the state’s administrative and education sectors. The affected bodies include the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the Ondo State Local Government Service Commission, the Ondo State Muslim Welfare Board, and the Ondo State Christian Welfare Board. In addition, the tenure of Education Secretaries across all 18 Local Government Areas in the state has also expired, bringing their appointments to an end. According to the statement, all Chairmen, Commissioners, board members, and Education Secretaries concerned have been directed to hand over their responsibilities to the most s...

OSOPADEC OPENS 2026 BURSARY APPLICATION FOR ILAJE, ESE-ODO STUDENTS The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has officially announced the commencement of its bursary application for students from Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas for the 2024/2025 academic session. In a statement issued by the commission, eligible students currently enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria are invited to apply for the financial support scheme aimed at easing the burden of education in oil-producing communities. Eligibility Criteria According to OSOPADEC, applicants must meet the following requirements: Must be indigenes of Ilaje and/or Ese-Odo Local Government Areas of Ondo State; Must be full-time students in accredited public or private tertiary institutions within Nigeria for the 2024/2025 academic session; Must be undergraduate or postgraduate students, including those in Law School, with confirmed admission status from their institutions; The commission, ...

SANWO-OLU BACKS HAMZAT AS SUCCESSOR, SIGNALS EARLY 2027 LAGOS GOVERNORSHIP RACE LAGOS, NIGERIA — Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has publicly endorsed his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election, marking a significant early development in the state’s political landscape. The endorsement was announced on Monday following a closed-door meeting held at the Lagos House, Marina, where Hamzat formally declared his intention to contest the governorship seat. The meeting brought together members of the State Executive Council, key leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and influential stakeholders within the state. Among those in attendance were members of the Governor’s Advisory Council, including former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, and former lawmaker, Ganiyu Solomon, among others. Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu described the decision as a collective and unanimous agr...

APC PRIMARIES CRISIS DEEPENS AS FACTIONAL BATTLES ROCK ONDO AHEAD OF 2027 The build-up to the 2027 general elections is already exposing deep divisions within the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as internal power struggles threaten the party’s cohesion ahead of its primaries. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed April 23 to May 30, 2026, for political parties to conduct primaries nationwide. In compliance with the Electoral Act 2026, parties are expected to adopt either the direct primary or consensus method in selecting candidates for elective offices. In Ondo State, preparations have intensified, with aspirants jostling for tickets across the National Assembly and State Assembly levels. The APC, which remains the dominant political force in the state following a wave of defections from opposition parties, is witnessing heightened competition among its members. Growing Factional Tensions Despite public assurances of unity, the party...

SOWORE BLASTS OPPOSITION SUMMIT, CALLS IT A ‘DANGEROUS RECYCLING OF FAILED LEADERS Activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has explained his decision to decline an invitation to an opposition summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, stating that Nigeria requires a credible alternative rather than what he described as a recycling of past political actors. Sowore made his position known in a statement shared via his official social media platform on Sunday, where he expressed strong reservations about the intent and composition of the gathering. According to him, many of the individuals involved in the summit had previously played roles in Nigeria’s longstanding political and economic challenges, and could not be trusted to drive meaningful change. He said, “I was invited to attend the so-called ‘Opposition Summit’ in Ibadan, but I declined. There is no need to pretend that the same individuals who presided over stagnation, corruption, and syste...

 CAC INDUCTS NEW SUPERINTENDENT IN ILE-OLUJI AMID CELEBRATION The Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Ile-Oluji District Coordinating Council (DCC), on Sunday, April 26, 2026, formally inducted Pastor Makanjuola J.S. as its new District Superintendent during a well-attended service held at CAC Oke-Isegun Temidire, Ile-Oluji, Ondo State. The induction ceremony was officiated by the Odubanjo Regional Superintendent, Pastor Gideon Obiwale, in an atmosphere marked by worship, thanksgiving, and community participation. The Regional Superintendent was received with a colorful procession led by church groups, setting a celebratory tone for the event. Ministers, elders, members, and invited guests gathered in large numbers for what church leaders described as a significant moment in the district’s history. In his welcome remarks, the DCC Secretary, Elder Ayokunle V.O., expressed appreciation to Pastor Obiwale for his continued leadership and oversight. He described the newly inducted Superinten...

ONDO GOVERNOR APPOINTS LAWSON OLORUNWA AS ACTING RECTOR OF RUFUS GIWA POLYTECHNIC The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the appointment of Engr. (Dr.) Lawson Olorunwa Sunday as the Acting Rector of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, with effect from April 25, 2026. The appointment follows the retirement of the immediate past Rector, Dr. Adegun Simeon Olurunwa, who concluded his tenure on April 24, 2026. Engr. Olorunwa, a seasoned academic and administrator, is a Chief Lecturer in the Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering Technology at the institution. He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering Technology and is a registered engineer with over 25 years of experience within Nigeria’s polytechnic system. Throughout his career, he has held several key administrative roles, including Deputy Rector, Director of Works, and Head of Department. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Deputy Rector of the Polytechnic. He ...

OPPOSITION PARTIES ADOPT IBADAN DECLARATION, PLEDGE UNITED FRONT AHEAD OF 2027 ELECTIONS Opposition political parties in Nigeria have adopted a joint communiqué, tagged the Ibadan Declaration, committing to a unified strategy aimed at strengthening multi-party democracy and contesting the 2027 general elections. The resolution was reached at the Opposition Political Parties National Summit held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State, where party leaders and stakeholders deliberated on the political and economic direction of the country. In the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the parties expressed concerns over governance, electoral processes, and the state of democratic institutions, calling for coordinated action among opposition groups. A key outcome of the summit is the commitment by participating parties to work towards presenting a single presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. According to the communiqué, such a consensus candidate would be jointly ...

FAJEMIROKUN-AJAYI OUTLINES DEVELOPMENT BLUEPRINT FOR ILE-OLUJI/OKE-IGBO AND ODIGBO FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY Hon. Simisola Fajemirokun-Ajayi, an aspirant for the House of Representatives seat representing Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo and Odigbo Federal Constituency, has outlined her agenda, emphasizing economic development, strategic investment, and improved representation for the people. Speaking during engagements with stakeholders across the constituency, Fajemirokun-Ajayi said her decision to contest is driven by a commitment to unlock the economic potential of the area and ensure residents benefit more directly from government policies and interventions. She stressed that effective representation goes beyond occupying a political office, noting that it requires a deep understanding of local strengths and translating them into tangible opportunities for the people. Highlighting key sectors, the aspirant identified agriculture as a major pillar of growth, particularly in Ile-Oluji, known for its c...

OTUNBA WOLE OMOGUNSOYE ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL DECLARATION FOR MHA RACE Otunba Wole Omogunsoye (Ph.D) has formally announced plans to declare his intention to contest for the Member, House of Assembly (MHA) position, setting the stage for heightened political activities within the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a message addressed to his supporters and associates, Omogunsoye expressed appreciation for the sustained encouragement, prayers, and commitment he has received since signaling interest in the race. He noted that the growing support base has continued to strengthen his resolve to pursue the ambition. According to the statement, the official declaration will take place at the APC Party Secretariat in Odolu on Wednesday, April 29, at 2:00 PM. The event is expected to draw party faithful, community stakeholders, and political observers from across the constituency. Describing the declaration as a significant milestone, the aspirant called on supporters to attend in large numbers al...

CORONATION OF OLUOKE OF OKEIGBO: ADEBARE FELICITATES WITH NEW MONARCH, CALLS FOR UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT The Executive Chairman of Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Hon. Adebare Adeboye, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Barrister Akintoye Adeoye, Adegbite II, on his coronation as the Oluoke of Okeigbo Kingdom. In a press statement issued through his Special Assistant on Media, Oluwapelumi S. Akinsiku, the Chairman described the coronation as a significant milestone in the history and cultural heritage of Okeigbo Kingdom. Adeboye noted that the ascension of Oba Adegbite II marks the beginning of a new era of traditional leadership, expressing optimism that the monarch’s reign will bring peace, unity, and socio-economic development to the community. He said the occasion represents a moment of pride for the people of Okeigbo, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, while extending congratulations to all indigenes on the emergence of a new traditional ruler. The...

NEW FINANCE MINISTER ASSUMES OFFICE, PLEDGES FISCAL DISCIPLINE AND ECONOMIC REFORMS Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy has formally assumed office, outlining key priorities aimed at stabilising and strengthening the nation’s economy. In an official statement following the handover ceremony, the minister confirmed taking over from the former Finance Minister, Mr. Wale Edun, and expressed appreciation for his service and contributions to economic policy development. The minister noted that Nigeria is at a critical phase, stressing the need to consolidate recent economic stabilisation efforts while advancing reforms that deliver measurable improvements in citizens’ welfare. According to the statement, the administration’s immediate focus will centre on enhancing productivity and economic growth by fostering a predictable and investor-friendly environment. This, the minister said, will be anchored on consistent and coherent policy framewo...

APC TO PRIORITISE MERIT, LOYALTY AND WINNABILITY IN 2027 CANDIDATE SELECTION — AIYEDATIWA The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will adopt merit, loyalty, and electoral viability as key criteria in selecting its candidates for the 2027 general elections. The governor also cautioned party aspirants against engaging in desperation or “do-or-die” politics, urging them to uphold discipline and unity within the party. Aiyedatiwa made these remarks on Friday during the APC Central Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting held at the Akure Township Hall. He noted that political activities ahead of the 2027 elections have already begun to gather momentum, outlining that the process would commence with the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms, followed by screening, appeals where necessary, and eventually primaries or consensus arrangements as determined by the party leadership. According to the governor,...

BISHOP OYEDEPO URGES MEMBERS TO GIVE KIDNAPPERS HIS PHONE NUMBER, CLAIMS DIVINE INTERVENTION The Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has advised members of his congregation to provide his phone number to kidnappers in the event they are abducted, stating that he possesses the spiritual authority to secure their release. The cleric made the remarks during a church service held at the church’s headquarters, Canaanland, in Ota, Ogun State. A video clip of the sermon has since circulated widely on social media, drawing public attention. In the viral footage, Oyedepo is heard instructing members, “If anybody picks you, give them my number.” He supported his statement with testimonies he described as instances of divine intervention involving kidnapped members of the church. According to him, in one case, a church pastor was abducted and allowed to hand over a phone to him. Oyedepo claimed he issued a warning to the alleged kidnappers, stating that failure to rele...

APC ONDO PRAISES OYERINMADE’S VISIT, VOWS FAIR AND TRANSPARENT SENATORIAL PRIMARY PROCESS The Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a transparent and credible senatorial primary, while commending aspirant Mathew Oyerinmade for formally declaring his intention at the party secretariat in Akure. The commendation was conveyed in a statement issued by the party’s State Chairman, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, who described Oyerinmade’s visit as a sign of respect for party structure and leadership. He noted that although such formal declarations are not compulsory, they demonstrate political maturity and dedication to party values. Babatunde also acknowledged Oyerinmade’s political experience, describing him as a longstanding member of the progressive fold who has contributed to the development and stability of the APC in Ondo State. Reiterating the party’s position on candidate selection, the chairman stated that the APC would adopt...

ADELABU RETURNS TO IBADAN AFTER RESIGNATION, DRAWS ATTENTION WITH TRAFFIC CONTROL DISPLAY Barely 24 hours after stepping down from his position as Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu arrived in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where he attracted public attention following an unusual public display. Videos circulating on social media on Wednesday showed the former minister, dressed in traditional attire, briefly stepping into a busy road to help manage traffic. The footage captured him directing vehicles while acknowledging greetings from residents and supporters gathered around the area. The incident reportedly occurred shortly after his arrival at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, where a crowd had assembled to welcome him. Adelabu also spoke to journalists during his visit, reflecting on his time in office and contributions to Nigeria’s power sector. “I have seen, and I have conquered. I believe I have done my best and contributed meaningfully to national development,...

YOUTH URGED TO SHUN ELECTORAL VIOLENCE, EMBRACE PEACEFUL PARTICIPATION AHEAD OF ELECTIONS As preparations intensify ahead of the next election cycle, a community leader, Victor Abosede, has called on young people to reject violence and play constructive roles in the democratic process. In a public message addressed to youths, Abosede emphasized the importance of responsible civic engagement, noting that elections should be defined by ideas, leadership, and progress rather than fear, intimidation, or conflict. He expressed concern over the recurring trend where some young people are influenced, pressured, or financially induced to engage in disruptive activities during elections. According to him, such actions often leave lasting consequences for those involved, long after political actors have moved on. “Young people deserve better,” he stated, urging them to channel their energy, strength, and influence into building their communities rather than contributing to unrest. Abosede highli...

APC ONDO APPOINTS OLAWALE IJANUSI AS SPECIAL ASSISTANT ON NEW MEDIA The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has announced the appointment of Mr. Olawale Sunday Ijanusi as Special Assistant on New Media to the State Chairman, in a move aimed at strengthening the party’s communication structure. The appointment, which was conveyed in an official letter dated April 21, 2026, and signed by the APC Ondo State Secretary, Alex Kalejaye, forms part of an ongoing reorganization within the party’s secretariat to enhance effective service delivery. According to the letter, Ijanusi was found suitably qualified for the role following an internal assessment, underscoring the party’s commitment to engaging competent individuals in key strategic positions. The new role places Ijanusi at the center of the party’s digital communication efforts, where he is expected to manage and coordinate new media strategies, including online engagement, information dissemination, and digital campaign initia...

Obaseki Dumps PDP, Joins ADC in Major Political Realignment Nigeria’s political landscape has witnessed another significant shift as the immediate past Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The move marks a notable development in the evolving dynamics of party alignments in the country, particularly as political actors begin to reposition ahead of future electoral contests. Obaseki, who served as Edo State governor for two consecutive terms from 2016 to 2024, was a prominent figure within the PDP following his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2020. His earlier switch to the PDP came amid internal disputes within the APC, which ultimately led to his re-election under the PDP platform. His latest defection to the ADC is seen by political observers as part of a broader strategy to align with emerging political forces outside the traditional dominance of the APC a...

ILE-OLUJI THEFT CASE TAKES DARK TURN AS POLICE DISCOVER SUSPECTED HUMAN REMAINS, ARREST THREE The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 29-year-old suspect in Ile-Oluji following a theft case that led to the discovery of items suspected to be of criminal and ritual significance, including what authorities believe may be human skeletal remains. According to a statement issued on April 23, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the suspect, identified as Awomehinde Tope, was apprehended on April 11, 2026, over allegations of stealing from his father, Awomehinde Kehinde. Items reportedly stolen include three Boxer Bajaj motorcycles, nine goats, quantities of palm oil, four Android phones, two gas cylinders, gold items, and rug carpets. Police investigations revealed that one of the stolen rugs had been sold to another individual, identified as Olawale Sunday. Acting on intelligence, officers conducted a search at the suspect’s residence, where t...

TINUBU UNVEILS ₦17BN PLAN TO BOOST DEVELOPMENT IN ALL 8,804 WARDS President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a ₦17 billion Community-Based National Social Action Fund aimed at strengthening grassroots development across Nigeria’s 8,804 political wards. The initiative is designed to enhance community participation in governance, improve service delivery, and address socio-economic challenges at the local level through targeted interventions. According to an official statement issued in Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the programme will be implemented through a dedicated task force to coordinate community-led development efforts nationwide. Under the framework, each ward will collaborate with verified community-based organisations, associations, or entities to identify and execute priority projects tailored to local needs. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, described the initiative as a significant step toward de...

SUPREME COURT RESERVES JUDGMENT IN ADC CASE AS ONDO CHAPTER URGES CALM, EXPRESSES OPTIMISM The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ondo State has called for calm among its members and supporters following the conclusion of proceedings at the Supreme Court of Nigeria in an ongoing legal matter involving the party. In a press statement issued by the Ondo State chapter, the party confirmed that the apex court has reserved judgment after hearing arguments from all parties. The date for the ruling is yet to be announced but is expected within the coming days or early next week. The party described the development as a routine judicial process, noting that it is standard practice for courts to reserve judgment in cases involving extensive written and oral submissions. It emphasized that delivering judgment immediately after such proceedings would have been unusual. ADC expressed confidence in the outcome of the case, citing what it described as strong legal arguments presented by its counse...

AIYEDATIWA SUSPENDS UNION ACTIVITIES AT RUGIPO, DIRECTS STAFF TO RESUME WORK Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the suspension of union activities at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), in a move aimed at restoring academic and administrative stability within the institution. The directive follows prolonged disruptions linked to industrial actions by staff unions, which have affected academic schedules and institutional operations. According to official information, the state government ordered all staff members to immediately resume duties, emphasizing the need to safeguard the academic calendar and protect the interests of students. The management of RUGIPO has also been directed to enforce compliance with the government’s decision, while ensuring a conducive environment for learning and administrative functions. The intervention is part of broader efforts by the state government to address recurring labour disputes in tertiary institutions and maintai...

POWER MINISTER RESIGNS, SETS SIGHTS ON OYO GOVERNORSHIP BID The Minister of Power has formally resigned from office, citing plans to pursue a gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State, according to an official resignation letter dated April 22, 2026. The letter, addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, confirms that the resignation will take effect from April 30, 2026, to allow for a smooth transition and handover of responsibilities. In the correspondence issued from the Office of the Honourable Minister at the Federal Ministry of Power, Abuja, the outgoing minister expressed appreciation to the President for the opportunity to serve in the Federal Executive Council. “I write with a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation as the Honourable Minister of Power of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the letter stated. The minister highlighted contributions made during the tenure, particularly in advan...

INEC VALIDATES SDP LEADERSHIP AFTER NATIONWIDE STRUCTURE AND MEMBERSHIP VERIFICATION The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has affirmed the leadership structure of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) following a comprehensive verification exercise conducted ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The verification, carried out at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, forms part of INEC’s regulatory requirements to ensure that registered political parties comply with constitutional provisions, maintain functional internal governance, and demonstrate nationwide presence. Speaking at a press briefing after the exercise, SDP National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, disclosed that an 11-member INEC delegation undertook an extensive review of the party’s organisational framework. According to him, the process included physical verification of members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC), as well as an assessment of the party’s admini...