Osun 2026: Omisore Throws Hat In Governorship Race

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October 4, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

“Given what happened between him and the late Bola Ige and the revered former Governor, Baba Akande whose Deputy Omisore, many are waiting to see what happens”

Iyiola Omisore, former Senator and former National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has declared his intention to run for the 2026 Osun State Governorship election.

The former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chieftain stated his intention to vie for the Osun State Number One Position under the platform of APC.

He made the declaration in a post on his X handle on Saturday, and said the formal announcement would take place on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Osun APC Secretariat in Ogo-Oluwa, Osogbo.

The declaration, themed “Fix the Broken, Restore Our Dreams,” is scheduled for 10 a.m.

“My beloved people of Osun State, after deep reflection and wide consultations, I have decided to formally declare my intention to contest for the Governor of Osun State in 2026 under our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC),” Omisore wrote.

Speaking on what his manifesto contains, Omisore added that his campaign would focus on restoring hope, strengthening governance, and delivering a brighter future for the people of the state.

“This is not just my mission, it is a collective one. I humbly invite you to join me as we take this bold step towards the Osun Rescue Mission 2026,” he said.

Before now, Omisore had served in various capacity, and was the former deputy Governor of Osun between 1999 and 2003 under the Alliance for Democracy.

His tenure as Deputy Governor to Chief Bisi Akande was turbulent. The two had a very untidy relationship which also spread to the murdered Chief Bola Ige, the then Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice. After the murder of Ige, Omisore who had an open confrontation with him a couple of days before his murder was arrested and charged to Court. He was, however, discharged and acquitted. He was in prison custody when he won the Senate seat of his District – Osun East which he represented between 2003 and 2011.

At the Senate, he was the Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

He contested the 2014 Osun Governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party but lost to the then-incumbent governor, Rauf Aregbesola.

He also had a stint with Social Democratic Party, under which he contested the 2018 election as Governor and, again failed to make it.

“Stop These Malicious Lies Against Nigeria” Presidency Replies US Senator

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Adesina Soyooye

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October 4, 2025

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By Adesina Soyooye

Taken aback by the allegation by Ted Cruz, a United States of America’s Senator representing the State of Texas that Christians are being targeted in Nigeria, the Presidency has told the Senator to stop the spread of malicious lies against Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, refuted Senator Cruz’s claim that Christians are being targeted in Nigeria in a viral post Cruz shared on his official X page.

Senator Cruz had boldly alleged on the same social media platform that Islamist jihadists are carrying out “mass murder of Christians” in Nigeria and accused state officials of complicity.

Cruz added that his “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act would target these officials with powerful sanctions and other tools.” And threatened: “It’s time to hold those responsible accountable.”

But reacting to Cruz’s allegation and threat, Onanuga warned the Texas Senator against propagating malicious lies against Nigeria.

He disagreed with Cruz, and emphasized that there is no “religious war” in the West African country.

Onanuga noted that Boko Haram terrorists operating in the Northern part of the country targets everyone.

Onanuga wrote, “Senator, stop these malicious, contrived lies against my country. We do not have a religious war in my country.

“The degraded Boko Haram terrorists operating on the fringes of Nigeria’s North east target everyone. They attack farmers, our soldiers. The bandits in the North west kill worshippers in their mosques.

“Christians are not targeted. We have religious harmony in our country. Stop these malicious lies.”

“Give Us Right To Bear Arms In Self Defence Against Bandits”, Sokoto Community Demands

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Akinwale Kasali

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October 4, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

Following the spate of insecurity bedeviling the Kebbe Local Government of Sokoto State, the people have demanded from the Federal Government the right to bear sophisticated weapons to wage war against the dreaded and deadly Lakurawa bandits.

They lamented

their pains and anguish at a press conference held on Saturday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat, Sokoto. They stated that they can no longer endure the incessant killings of people and destruction of property by the marauding bandits.

They said the bearing of arms is for self defense against the terrorists.

The residents led by Alhaji Adamu Kebbe, accused both the State and Local authorities of abandoning them to their fate and lamented that the government’s response to their plight has been slow and inadequate.

“We can’t sleep with our two eyes closed anymore. Our communities are being wiped out, and the government is doing little to protect us,” Haruna said emotionally.

They further urged the Federal Government to grant direct funding to Local Governments to enable them equip local security outfits and respond swiftly to attacks.

In recent times, Sokoto State has been one of the worst-hit by banditry with emerging terror groups such as the Lakurawas and the notorious gang led by Bello Turji unleashing deadly violence across Isa, Sabon Birni, and Kebbe LGAs.

Though the State Government has acknowledged the growing threat, residents say its measures have fallen far short of what is needed to guarantee safety.

Insecurity has been a major worry for Sokoto residents and the State Government have been working to combat the bandits since the time of former Governor Aminu Tambuwal.

Tinted Permit: Police Says It Is Yet To Receive Court Order

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Akinwale Kasali

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October 4, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Nigerian Police Force, NPF, has stated it is yet to receive the Court Order issued by the Federal High Court, Warri, which suspended the enforcement on Tinted Glass Permit on vehicles.

Following the Social Media Post by Human Rights Lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, who shared a copy of a Federal High Court order directing the Police to maintain the status quo in the ongoing case on the enforcement of tinted glass permits, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that the police had not yet been officially served with the court order cited by Effiong.

Hundeyin responding via his official handle on X (formerly Twitter), wrote: “While we have not been officially served the court order you’re making reference to, let me, in the meantime, show point no. 8 (of the same order) since you left that part out and focused only on point no. 6. Nigerians deserve a complete picture, not a skewed one.”

Point 8 of the said order reads: “Meanwhile, Reliefs 1, 2 and 3 are hereby refused.”

The reliefs referred to are those sought by the applicant, John Aikpokpo-Martins, on behalf of tinted glass car owners in Nigeria, in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025 — John Aikpokpo-Martins v. Inspector General of Police & Nigeria Police Force, which include; (1) An order of interim injunction restraining the Inspector General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, their officers, men, agents, privies and/or contractors from implementing or enforcing the new tinted glass permit policy set to commence on October 6, 2025, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

“(2) An order of interim injunction restraining the defendants from stopping, harassing, arresting, detaining, impounding vehicles or extorting motorists in purported enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice. (3) An order of interim injunction restraining the defendants from using the Parkway Projects account (No. 4001017918) to collect any fees for the renewal of tinted glass permits or to conduct any government business pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”

His response came after Effiong posted excerpts of the court order granted in Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025: John Aikpokpo-Martins v. Inspector General of Police & Nigeria Police Force, which restrained the police from taking further action on the enforcement of tinted glass regulations pending the determination of the case.

Appointments: Give Us Sense Of Belonging – MURIC To President Tinubu

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Ayodele Oni

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October 4, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

An Islamic human rights organization, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to address the allegation of lopsidedness in political appointments raised by Muslims in any future cabinet reshuffling.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued on Saturday, by the Executive Director of the organization, Prof Ishaq Akintola.

The statement reads:

“It is not unusual for cabinets to be reshuffled midway into an administration’s tenure or after an historical or significant event. In this context, it will be in character if the Tinubu administration decides to reshuffle its cabinet after Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

“It is an open secret that Nigerian Muslims have complained severally about the lopsidedness of political appointments in the present dispensation vis a vis political posts given to Nigerian Christians.*

“The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) cried out over the marginalization of Muslims in political appointments.The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) lodged the same complaint.

“The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) also took the cue, while the Concerned Yoruba Muslim Scholars in Nigeria equally joined the outcry.

“Even the president reportedly confirmed that 62% of political appointments went to Nigerian Christians, while Christian leaders testified that the Tinubu administration favoured the body of Christ.

“It is therefore too glaring and undeniable that Nigerian Muslims, particularly those in the South West, have been at the receiving end of political marginalization under the Tinubu administration.

“On the contrary, the same administration has been extra-ordinarily generous with minority Christian groups in the North Central in matters of political appointments.

“It should be noted that MURIC speaks not out of animosity, reckless activism or irresponsible leadership, but out of the desire to add luster to good governance.

“Although Nigerian Muslims have little influence in mainstream media space, they constitute a huge portion of the country’s demographic strength.

“Good governance demands that such a massive but voiceless group deserves attention while their grudges require Aso Rock’s action. The Ummah is our constituency and we have a duty to bring feelers from there to the attention of those in positions of authority.

“As we draw the curtain on this conversation, MURIC appeals to President Bola Tinubu to raise the banners of justice, fairness and equity in political appointments if and when he contemplates reshuffling his cabinet. Inclusivity is key in selections.

“Muslims have skilled men and women in all sectors for those who care to look in their direction. Only thus can Muslims have a true sense of belonging.”

Ondo State To Host 69th National Council On Education

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Ayodele Oni

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October 4, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Government is set to host the 69th meeting of the National Council on Education (NCE), scheduled to take place next month.

With the theme “Quality Education, Data and Professionalisation of Teaching; a Tool for Enhanced National Development, the meeting will be hosted in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education.

The National Council on Education is the highest statutory body responsible for making key decisions that chart the course of the entire education sector in Nigeria.

Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, conveyed the readiness of the state, while playing host to the team from the Federal Ministry of Education in Akure.

The Commissioner appreciated the Federal Ministry of Education for bringing the NCE to Ondo State, while emphasizing that council meeting would presents an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to take stock of national progress, identify systemic challenges, and forge a cohesive national strategy.

Ajibefun assured the visiting officials that the state is fully prepared to handle the logistics and high expectations associated with hosting the nation’s foremost educational summit.

A top official of the Federal Ministry of education, Alhaja Abosede Olayiwola, while speaking on the reason for their visit noted that it was specifically to check the level of preparedness, while also highlighting the importance of thorough planning for an event of this magnitude.

She said the meeting would be chaired by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunde Alausa, and is expected to attract delegates from across the country.

In her words ” diverse group of high-ranking officials and policymakers will converge in Ondo State for the five-day summit.

“The expected delegates include Education Commissioners from all 36 states, alongside key Government functionaries from various Federal and State Ministries of Education, Higher Education, Science and Technology.

Others are Chairmen of State Universal Basic Education Board, officials from the FCT Education Secretariat, federal and state education parastatals, and other relevant government agencies”

The NCE serves as the ultimate policy clearing house for Nigeria’s educational architecture. Historically, its resolutions have resulted in nationwide reforms, curriculum reviews, and changes to teaching standards.

The major policy decisions taken here will subsequently be implemented across all tiers of education from basic to tertiary in every state.

Invasion Of Ondo Community; Police Arrest Ten Suspects

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Ayodele Oni

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October 4, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Police Command has announced the arrest of ten suspects in connection with a violent attack on Igoba Community, Akure North Local Government Area. The incident, happened on Thursday.

According to police report made available by the spokesman, Olusola Ayanlade, “on the said date, a group of hoodlums, armed with firearms, knives, charms, and other dangerous weapons, invaded Igoba Community with the intent to wreak havoc.

“In the course of their violent activities, Mrs. Ogunoye Oluomo (F) was viciously attacked, injured, and dispossessed of her belongings.

“The assailants further advanced to the palace of His Royal Highness, Oba Adinlewa John of Igoba, where they attempted to assassinate the monarch. Fortunately, the royal father narrowly escaped the life-threatening assault.

“Upon receipt of the distress call, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, promptly directed all necessary operational assets and manpower to the area.

‘Led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, the tactical team effected the arrest of ten (10) suspects.

“The suspects have confessed to their various roles in the unrest and will all be charged to court upon the completion of investigations.

“Items recovered from the suspects include: two locally fabricated pistols, one single-barrel gun, several rounds of live ammunition, assorted charms, knives and machetes, and other dangerous weapons used during the attack.

“The injured victim is currently receiving medical treatment and responding positively, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing suspects.

“Normalcy has since been restored to Igoba Community, with security presence reinforced to forestall further breakdown of law and order.”

Insecurity: Kwara Relocates School Of Nursing

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Ayodele Oni

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October 4, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

As insecurity persists in the Southern Senatorial District of Kwara State, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has approved the immediate relocation of the State School of Nursing from the area.

The School, located at Oke-Ode, in Ifelodun Local Government Area, has been relocated to Ilorin following the rising insecurity in parts of Kwara South Senatorial District.

According to the College ’s spokesperson, AbdulHafeez Oyewole, the institution is now operating temporarily from the Institute of Technology, Mini Campus of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin.

Oyewole stated that the relocation was approved by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and swiftly executed to safeguard staff and students.

The transition, overseen by the Provost, Alhaji Olanrewaju AbdulQaudri, was concluded within three days between Monday and Wednesday, to ensure a seamless continuation of academic activities.

It was confirmed that lectures for Nursing and Midwifery students have fully resumed.

While addressing members of staff, the Provost explained that the decision became necessary after a deadly attack in Oke-Ode last Sunday, where 12 residents were killed and several others abducted by gunmen.

He urged staff to remain dedicated to their duties despite the relocation and called on students to maintain discipline, adapt positively to the new environment, and remain vigilant.

During an inspection of the new facilities, AbdulQaudri reassured students of management’s commitment to their welfare and academic progress.

The Provost expressed hope that normalcy would soon return to Oke-Ode, allowing the institution to return to its permanent site in due course.

Already, the military has taken over supervision of the onslaught-prone areas to rid them of bandits, that have been unleashing terror on communities.

Tinubu Hosts IMO Scribe, Reaffirms Commitment To Maritime Dev

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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October 4, 2025

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has received in audience the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, IMO, Arsenio Dominguez, in lagos.

During the visit, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s maritime sector as a viable alternative to fossil energy. He noted that the recent signing of the National Maritime Policy was a deliberate step to entrench global best practices and strengthen the competitiveness of the Nigerian maritime industry.

In his remarks, the IMO Secretary-General commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for its remarkable achievements in maritime safety and security, particularly in safeguarding the Gulf of Guinea. He assured that the United Nations agency remains ready to collaborate with Nigeria in sustaining the recent successes recorded in the sector.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, led the IMO Secretary-General and other industry leaders for the engagement.

They include the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Olufemi Oloruntola, Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, the Managing Director of NPA Dr Abubaker Dansoho, and Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA Bola Oyebamiji

The IMO scribe had earlier lauded Nigeria for the gains made under the blue economy and maritime transport.

Ondo: New Yam Festival Turns Bloody As Youths Attack Traditional Ruler, Strips Olori, Douse Prince With Urine

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Ayodele Oni

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October 4, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

It was a case of an abomination at Idogun community in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State on Friday as the Traditional ruler, his Olori, and son were assaulted by irate youths during the celebration of the Annual New Yam Festival celebration.

The Monarch, Oba Moses Bakare, the Onidogun of Idogun, his Olori, and their son, Prince Victor Bakare, were attacked at Ishara Quarters, the venue of the festival, by a faction of youths said to be at loggerheads with the Palace.

Prince Victor who addressed Journalists at the Palace after the incident, displayed injuries he sustained during the attack.

He alleged that the mob humiliated his family by stripping his mother half-naked, doused him with urine and other dirty substances, and manhandled the Monarch.

“This is not just an attack on my family but on the entire Idogun throne,” he said, fighting back tears.

The Monarch, Oba Bakare, described the attack as a continuation of what he termed “unprovoked hostility” from a section of the youths in the community. He condemned the assault, calling it “barbaric, unfortunate, and a desecration of our tradition.”

The violence, however, was swiftly curtailed by the intervention of security operatives. The Amotekun Corps and Police Officers deployed to the scene dispersed the rioters before the crisis could escalate into a full-blown communal clash.

Confirming the incident, the Amotekun Coordinator in Idogun, Mr. Omatayo Johnson said the security team moved promptly to restore the order.

“Our quick intervention prevented the situation from degenerating into something far more dangerous. Normalcy has since returned.”

The Palace has called on the Government and law enforcement agencies to investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice to forestall a repeat of such violence.

The State Police Command spokesman, Olusola Ayantade, who confirmed the incident, added that the case is under investigation and “we are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served.”