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2026 Osun Guber: Ataoja of Osogbo Publicly Declares Support For ADC, Aregbesola

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Ataoja of Osogbo - HRM Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun

By Akinwale Kasali

As the African Democratic Congress, ADC, campaign train moves to Osun State with the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election gathering momentum, the Ataoja of Osogbo, HRM Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, Laroye II, has endorsed, and  openly declared his support for the ADC and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola in Osun State.

The Monarch who is also the 21st Traditional and Paramount ruler of the city of Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, made this open declaration of support for Aregbesola’s Party, ADC and for the two term former Governor of the State during a courtesy call at his palace in Osogbo, ahead of the ADC’s final constituency tour of Osun State.

Oba Oyetunji held no words back as he emotionally declared that wherever Aregbesola goes, he will follow and support him.

“Your coming to Osogbo today is symbolic because I have not heard that you adopted a new Party until now that you visited. That you have come to openly declare being in a new party with all those that followed you means the whole of Osogbo will be behind you.

“No one will see me and not see Aregbe, and when you see Aregbe, you will surely see me”, the Ataoja Of Osogbo stated.

He added: “Aregbesola’s journey this time around is different. This is because he has come now to work assiduously for the betterment of the people of Osun.

“He is one man I respect a lot because when some naysayers were mounting pressure on him to dethrone me, he did not listen to them.

“We are not ingrates in Osogbo. Osogbo is always united when it comes to politics.

“I’m for Aregbesola. I will never leave him. Wherever he goes, we shall follow.”

Oba Oyetunji, who shared his thoughts in Yoruba language, asked the town’s chiefs and the Asiwaju of Osogbo land, Hon. Justice Moshud Adekunle Adeigbe (Rtd), if he had echoed their minds, and they all responded in affirmation of their support.

Nigerian Govs Convene Emergency Meeting Over Insecurity

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Nigeria Governors Forum - NGF

17 state governors under the aegis of the Southern Governors Forum, SGF,  are meeting in Ogun state as part of the move to promote peace and unity in the country.

The Governor of the state, Dapo Abiodun made this known in a post he shared on his verified X handle on Wednesday, saying the meeting will bring together top government officials, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders from the southern part of the country, who will deliberate on how to move the country forward.

Abiodun said: “As we prepare to host the Southern Governors’ Forum meeting today, we were pleased to receive some of the distinguished attendees, particularly traditional rulers and respected leaders from across the southern region.

“Their visit offered us the opportunity to deepen ongoing engagements and align our shared expectations ahead of the gathering.

“We value the presence of our royal fathers and regional leaders, whose wisdom and guidance continue to enrich our processes.

“As host, we remain committed to creating an atmosphere that encourages honest dialogue and fosters stronger collaboration among all stakeholders as we work together for the peace, stability, and development of our region and, by extension, our country.”

The magazine had earlier reported that six southwest governors met in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital on Tuesday on how to tackle imminent security challenge posed by foreigners, especially Fulani bandits and other criminals to the region.

Meanwhile, 19 northern state governors have also fixed November 29 to meet over escalating insecurity across the region.

Speaking about the meeting to journalists, Peter Ahemba, senior special assistant on public affairs to Abdullahi Sule, governor of Nasarawa, said the meeting will take place in Kaduna.

He stressed that the meeting will  forge a joint strategy for addressing insecurity in the region, saying other major stakeholders, including traditional rulers have been invited to the meeting.

Ahemba said, “The meeting aims to develop a unified approach to tackling security concerns affecting the region and discuss the way forward on security matters

“Due to the security challenges in some northern states, the Nasarawa state government has taken proactive measures by organising an emergency security meeting, where decisive decisions will be made to prevent any breach of security in the state.

“It is the duty of citizens to help deal with security threats in our country and state.

“Therefore, citizens must do well by providing security agencies with relevant information about individuals with criminal tendencies.”

FCT Minister Suspends Education Secretary

By
Ayodele Oni
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Nyesom Wike - FCT Minister
Nyesom Wike

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has directed the immediate suspension of the Mandate Secretary for Education,  Dr Danlami Hayyo.

Hayyo was suspended for ordering the closure of schools in FCT without the approval of the Minister.

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, in a statement, debunked the report that all Government Schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were mandated to close by November 28, 2025, saying that “no such decision was taken at any level of the administration.”

The Acting Head of Service,  Mrs Nancy Sabanti Nathan, has also been mandated to discipline the Director, School Services, Mrs Aishatu Alhassan, in accordance with the civil service rules.

Describing the report on early closure of schools as false and misleading, the administration urged parents, students, and school authorities to dismiss the rumour, stressing that the approved academic calendar remained unchanged.

The FCTA also assured  residents of the FCT,  especially students of adequate security,  adding that the Minister has directed the resumption of Operation Sweep and other security initiatives in the federal capital.

On President Tinubu’s Orders, Airforce Takes Over Security In Kwara, Kebbi, Niger

By
Ayodele Oni
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Nigeria Airforce - NAF Operatives

By Ayodele Oni

As a further step to curtail banditry, President Tinubu has ordered total security cordon over the forests in Kwara state following recent kidnappings and terrorist activities.

President Tinubu directed the airforce to expand its air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara state, where it is believed the terrorists are hiding.

A statement on Tuesday by Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser, Media and Public Communications to the President, stated that they are to maintain a 24 hour surveillance and link up with the booths on the ground.

“This order equally applies to the Kebbi and Niger States axis where many are expected to be rescued.

“Communities are also urged to provide timely information about strange movements and activities to aide the work of the security forces.”

PDP Petitions Chief Judge Over 3 Judges

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Tanimu-Turaki

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has petitioned  the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, to stop assigning the party’s cases to the three justices of the court, namely  ; Justice Peter Odo Lifu; Justice James Omotosho and Justice Abduimalik.

The party said it’s surprised that cases relating to the PDP were always assigned to the three judges, wondering why it’s so despite the fact that there are close to 12 judges in the court.

The PDP made the petition in a letter signed by Taofeek Arapaja, the National Secretary of the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee, saying its members have expressed seriously concern about these justices.

The development comes on the heels of conflicting judgments delivered by the court regarding the recent National Convention of the party held in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, where Turaki was elected the National Chairman.

Two factions of the party are currently in court to determine which of them is in control.

According to the part, the courts presided over by the three justices have been designated by its members as “Courts of Particular Concern, adding that the party has lost confidence in their abilities to dispense justice in the cases relating to the PDP, calling on the Chief Judge to stop assigning its cases to them henceforth. .

“I have the instruction and authority of the National Chairman of our Party, the Peoples Democratic Party and the entire members of the newly-elected National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee of our Party to write this letter to Your Lordship concerning our fear and apprehension regarding all matters either filed by our Party or against our Party at the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division,” the PDP said.

“My lord, it is of great concern to our Party that it would appear that all matters for the past few years filed in the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division either for or against our Party have always been assigned to the following three Judges only, namely:

“Hon. Justice James Omotosho;Hon. Justice Peter Odo Lifu; Hon. Justice Abduimalik. Even though there are other Judges numbering up to nine in the Abuja Judicial Division, who could have taken up any of these matters, as the Abuja Division has 12 Judges.”

The party said its members had lately complained about the development, adding that it raised the question of whether the PDP had been fairly treated in the decisions handed down by the judges.

“Several of our Party members have recently complained bitterly to the newly elected members of the National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee of the above-mentioned scenario.

“Indeed, all these three Courts are viewed by party members and indeed the public as ‘courts of particular concern’ with regard to matters pertaining to or affecting the interest of the Peoples Democratic Party.

“My lord, it is trite that justice must not only be done in all cases and circumstances with regard to matters pending and matters filed in the Court of law, but justice must be seen to be done indeed by reasonable members of the society including the members of our Party.

“Given the current challenges facing the Party, there is a high likelihood of cases being filed for or against the Party. It is in this respect that we humbly plead and beg that in no other matters or circumstances with regard to cases that may be filed by or against our party henceforth should be assigned to any of these three Judges, since justice is rooted in trust and integrity.”

Adding that “Our Party wishes to reiterate the fact that we have no iota of doubt with regard to the integrity of the Judiciary, particularly the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, headed by your Lordship in dispensing justice in all cases, other than the above-highlighted fears and apprehension of our Party.

“Kindly accept the assurances and warm regards of the National Working Committee and the National Executive Committee of our great party.”

Bayo Onanuga’s Dangerous Pattern

By
The Source
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Bayo Onanuga and Valentine Obienyem

By Valentine Obienyem

The recent false claim by Mr. Bayo Onanuga that Mr.  Peter Obi was the one who invited former U.S. President Donald Trump to Nigeria is, unfortunately, consistent with his now familiar pattern of reckless misinformation. For the record, Mr. Peter Obi has never met President Trump, nor is he seeking to meet him now.

What is truly worrisome is the nature and frequency of the fabrications Mr. Onanuga continues to put out. We must recall that this is the same Bayo Onanuga who falsely alleged that Peter Obi was behind the nationwide protest that took place last year. The same man also claime that Obi was connected to the supposed coup plot over which certain individuals were arrested.

Why would a man in his seventies persist in acts that betray both maturity and responsibility? His conduct repeatedly suggests that he neither understands the gravity of the office he occupies nor the dignity that the position demands.

Nigerians often ask: Is this not the same office once held by the likes of Mr. Segun Adeniyi, Dr. Reuben Abati, and Mr. Femi Adesina? These individuals, at ages when Mr. Onanuga was already old enough to be their father, treated the office with respect and carried out their duties with restraint, professionalism, and honour. It is therefore baffling that Mr. Onanuga, despite being far older is the one diminishing the stature of a position meant to embody credibility and responsibility.

At a time when national cohesion is fragile and public trust is strained, those entrusted with official communication must speak with clarity, truth, and responsibility. Public communication ultimately serves as a mirror, revealing to the nation the true character and values of the leaders being represented. When misinformation becomes routine, it does not only expose the spokesperson, it casts a reflection on the system they speak for.

It is imperative that Mr. Onanuga rises to the demands of his office or refrains from actions that further erode the credibility of the government he represents.  If it is the problem of old age, he should honourable retire. Nigeria deserves better.

Obienyem, a Lawyer  is Peter Obi’s Media Adviser

Kidnapped Kebbi School Girls Released

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School - Kebbi State

By Adesina Soyooye

Freedom came Tuesday evening for the 24 female students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, Kebbi State who were abducted from their hostels on 17th November, 2025.

As they embraced freedom relief also came for the Governor of the State, Nasir Idris who publicly accused the Military of being responsible for the abduction of the Girls whose Vice Principal and Security Guard were killed by the terrorists.

The Governor said that the soldiers who were deployed to protect the students withdrew, inexplicably, shortly before the terrorist struck. He has called for a probe.

Confirming the release of the Girls, Bayo Onanuga, said that President Bola Tinubu has applauded the release.

He quoted the President as saying: “I am relieved that all the 24 Girls have been accounted for. Now, we must put as a matter of urgency  more boots on the ground in the vulnerable areas to avert further incidents of kidnapping.”

Delta Police Command Declares Prominent Title Holder, Gang Members  Wanted Over Death Of Three Onicha-Olona Youths

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Police on Patrol

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Delta State Police Command has directed the immediate deployment of tactical units, intelligence operatives and specialized investigators to track down fleeing Owelle of Onicha-Olona   Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, and members of his cultist gang over the death of three youths.

A statement on Tuesday November 25, 2025, from the State’s Police Command Spokesperson,Bright Idafe, informed that the suspects are wanted for masterminding a dastardly attack ,that led to the Killing of three youths close to the B Division Asaba, the State Capital on Monday November 24, 2025.

Idafe noted that the fleeing Owelle had, on the said day, led a group of local vigilante operatives and members of a suspected cult group to illegally enforce a  quit notice on a disputed land .

However, their illegal enforcement moves were said to have been resisted, with the suspects fatally shooting three youths.

According to the police spokesperson, Chief Nkeeshe, apart  from attempting to assert ownership of the disputed land without valid court orders, used illegal enforcers some of whom were allegedly clad in Military camouflage

Their unauthorized presence and enforcement, Idafe stated led to a confrontation with the other claimants to the land, and later escalated with the suspects opening fire on the opposing camp.

The three deceased youths passed on at a nearby medical facility where they were  rushed to.

The police statement which described the incident as “unprovoked, reckless and a brazen display of lawlessness, informed that the State Commissioner of Police has ordered that  members be hunted down at all cost.

“The State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately ordered the deployment of tactical units, intelligence operatives and specialized investigators to track and apprehend all the suspects involved.

“The Command will not tolerate such criminality under any guise. No individual, regardless of title, influence ,or backing will be shielded from prosecution”, the police noted.

Abia Seals President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda Office In Umuahia

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Alex Otti - Governor of Abia State
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Abia State Liaison office of  President Bola Tinubu’s  Renewed Hope Agenda, RHA, was among hundreds of properties, including residential buildings, that were on Tuesday November 25,2025 sealed by the Abia State Government in Umuahia, the state capital and Aba the state’s commercial nerve centre .

The Source reports that the action was  sequel to the expiry of notices of demand for the payment of property tax/rents (recertification fees)  posted by the State Ministry of Land.

The Lands Ministry officials sealed off President Tinubu’s RHA office located on Ojike Street Umuahia early in the morning for alleged failure to comply with the demand notice, several months after  service.

Access was refused by workers at the Liaison office which coordinator in the state and other South Eastern states is the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.

“Ministry of Lands and Housing: This property is in contravention of Sections 41 and 100 of the Abia State Tax Law ( Codification and Consolidation ) law No 7 of 2020.,. And it is here by sealed .

“Any person, including the owner/ occupier, neighbours or passers-by who attempt to unseal this building is in contravention of the Abia state tax law No 7 of 2020. Be warned . Keep off.

It would be recalled that some months back, the Ministry of Lands had posted the demand notices on most properties in Umuahia and Aba requesting  the payment for the recertification of the said structures by their owners.

The fees ranged from N50,000 and above depending on the type of property involved.

Checks by this Magazine indicated that most residential and commercial buildings in Umuahia and Aba were served with the notices, which also threatened court action against defaulters .

The policy which was muted earlier in the year as one of the measures to shore up the internally generated revenue IGR profile of the state has remained one of the most unpopular decisions ever taken by the present administration in the state.

Defeaning agitations have continued to trail it, with not a few perceiving it as an unnecessary additional burden on the people already pauperized by the excruciating economic situation in the country.

As at the time of reporting ,the Deputy Speaker, who has been having a running battle with the camp of the Governor Alex Otti over his speculated gubernatorial ambition was yet to react to the sealing off of the President’s liaison office.

Ondo Flays Rising Cases Of Digital Abuse Targeting Women

By
Ayodele Oni
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Seun Osamaye
Mrs Seun Osamaye: Court Orders her arrest and detention.

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has emphasized the urgency of tackling the rising cases of online harassment, cyberstalking, revenge pornography, and other forms of digital abuse targeting women and girls.

The commissioner for women affairs, Seun Osamaye, spoke in Akure, while unveiling

16-day programme of activities to mark the 2025 global campaign against gender-based violence, themed “Ending Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Speaking ahead of the official flag-off scheduled for 25th November, the Commissioner stressed that technology should empower  not endanger  women and girls.

According to her, the government is intentionally spotlighting digital violence this year because it is “silent, pervasive, and often overlooked.”

She pointed out that tthe fight against gender-based violence cannot be effective if digital violence is ignored.

The 16-day campaign, running from 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10th December 2025, will feature a series of activities aimed at raising awareness, strengthening response systems, and fostering collective action across the state.

Parts of the programme include: Awareness walk and roadshow across major streets of Akure, Specialized training for law enforcement officers and first responders on survivor-centered approaches; school and youth sensitization on consent, cyberbullying, and online safety.

Others are Engagement with the Men and Boys Forum under the HeForShe initiative,

Free legal clinic in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, NBA, and FIDA and Statewide social media marathon and release of short documentaries on digital GBV.

Dec 10: Grand closing ceremony featuring awards, cultural performances, and the release of a GBV Action Plan communiqué.

Dr. Osamaye added that the campaign will prioritize inclusion, with targeted activities for persons with disabilities, rural communities, market women, and survivors in need of medical, psychosocial, and economic support.

The Ministry is collaborating with key partners including the Ministries of Health and Justice, the Nigeria Police, NSCDC, UNFPA, UNICEF, CSOs, traditional rulers, media organisations, and disability groups to ensure statewide reach and impact.

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