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Awujale Of Ijebu Land, Oba Sikiru Adetona Is Dead

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Awujale Oba-Sikiru-Adetona

By Akinwale Kasali

Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba ll, the Awujale of Ijebu has joined his forebears.

The revered Monarch in Ogun State died at the age of 91 Years.

The Monarch’s historic reign spanned over six decades.

The paramount ruler of the Ijebu Kingdom, one of Nigeria’s most influential Monarchs, was the longest-reigning Awujale in history, ascending the throne in 1960.

Details surrounding his transition remain undisclosed, but the news has sent shockwaves across Yorubaland and beyond. He was conspicuously absent during the 2025 Ojude Oba Festival and was represented by his Olori.

The late Oba Adetọna was a towering figure in Nigerian traditional and political spheres.

He was known for his wisdom, progressive leadership, and unshakable commitment to the development of Ijebu land.

He was an ally of former President Muhammadu Buhari who also died same day at a  London Hospital.

The Kingdom is preparing for an official announcements and Royal rites.

Akume: NDNE Hails Odunuga’s Appointment As Media Aide

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Yomi Odunuga SGF

The Network of Digital Newspaper Editors, NDNE has congratulated senior journalist and media strategist,  Yomi Odunuga, on his appointment as the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume.

In a congratulatory message issued on Sunday, the editors described Odunuga’s appointment as a major boost for the SGF’s media operations, noting that his wealth of experience in journalism and public communication will positively impact the office’s public engagement.

According to a statement signed by the Director and Communications, of the Network, Mr. Uche Nnadozie, Odunuga brings to the table a rich background in media, having served across leading national newspapers and previously as media aide to a former Deputy Senate President.

“The office of the SGF is indeed fortunate to have a thoroughbred professional like Mr. Odunuga,” the Network stated. “His expertise, rich contacts and goodwill in the industry will no doubt enhance information dissemination and improve the public perception of this crucial arm of the federal government.”

The group further pledged its readiness to collaborate with Mr. Odunuga in ensuring that the Nigerian public receives accurate and timely information from the SGF’s office.

“We look forward to partnering with him to help achieve his communication mandate. We wish him success in this important national assignment,” Nnadozie added.

Ogun Govt Announces Awujale’s Death

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Awujale Oba-Sikiru-Adetona

The Ogun state government has announced the passing of the paramount mount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

The governor of state, Dapo Abiodun announced on Sunday in a statement that the traditional ruler has joined his forebears.

Oba Adetona, a well respected monarch joined his ancestors at the ripe age of 91, according to palace and state government sources.

Reacting to his demise, Governor Abiodun, in the statement said the death of Obas Adetona was a huge loss to the state and the country in general.

According to the governor, it’s very sad that the nation lost two of her prominent citizens the same day. Apart from the monarch, a former Nigerian President also died in the wee hours of Sunday.

Abiodun:  “We mourn the passing of Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Awujale of Ijebuland

“With deep sorrow, we announce the transition of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who joined his ancestors today, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

“This sad development, coinciding with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, marks a profound loss not just for Ogun State, but for the entire nation.

“Oba Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was a symbol of unity, wisdom, and development. Under his reign, Ijebuland witnessed unparalleled cultural renaissance, infrastructural growth, and economic advancement.”

He described the late Awujale as a symbol of unity, wisdom and development, noting that under his reign, Ijebuland witnessed tremendous cultural renaissance, infrastructural growth and economic advancement.

“His role in elevating the Ojude Oba festival to global recognition, alongside his enduring commitment to education, health, and tradition, will remain a timeless legacy.

“We honour his remarkable contributions and pray that his soul finds eternal rest,” the governor said.

The magazine had earlier reported that former President Buhari died today after a prolonged illness in London. He was twice Nigerian leader.

Obasanjo: Buhari Died When Nigeria Needed His Experience

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari

With the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari the country has lost immense experience at a time it was required the most. This is the submission of former President Olusegun Obasanjo while paying tribute to the Nigerian late leader.

Obasanjo, a former president made the remark on Sunday in Abeaokuta, the Ogun state capital barely few hours after Buhari joined the silent majority.

Buhari died in the early hours of Sunday, according to the federal government which has formally announced his passing.

Not a few Nigerian have paid glowing tribute to the former leader who succumbed to the cold hands so death after a protracted illness. He died in London today.

According to Obasanjo, Buhari died at the time that his vast experience was required to move the country forward., describing him as somebody who played his role successfully as a soldier , administrator and a statesmena.

Obasanjo said,  “It is with a heavy heart that I received this afternoon the passing to glory of a colleague, a comrade, co-patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari, who, as a soldier he played his role as soldier; as an administrator, he played his role as an administrator; as a statesman, he played his role as a statesman.

“His demise comes at a time like this that we need the totality of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all of those who have had opportunity to run the affairs of this country in the past to get us out of the situation we are in.

“He will be sorely missed, and may his soul respect in perfect peace.”

Both Buhari and Obasanjo were military heads of state and former civilian presidents.

Buhari’s Death A National Loss; He Was A Patriot- Jonathan

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Muhammadu Buhari
Muhammadu Buhari

Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has described the death of former President Muhammdu Buhari as a national loss to the country, he said the late Nigerian leader was a notable patriot”.
Jonathan expressed his grief in a statement on Sunday, barely few hours after the former leader died.
Buhari died in London in the early hours of Sunday , and prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have been paying tributes to the late Nigerian President.
According to Jonathan , Buhari will be remembered as a courageous leader and discipline officer who contributed immensely to the peace and progress of the country, saying Nigeria has lost one of its ‘foremost leaders.”

Jonathan: “It is with a heavy heart and profound sense of national loss that I received the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari who died at the age of 82.

“President Buhari was a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and President, to the best of his abilities.
“He will be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.
“The late President was deeply admired across the strata of society for his decency, integrity and exemplary life of service. As a leader, he was selfless in his commitment to his duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.
“In his passing, Nigeria has lost one of its foremost leaders, and I have lost a respected colleague and elder. His legacy will continue to endure in the hearts of all who value sacrifice, integrity, perseverance and devotion to national ethos.
“On behalf of my family and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the good people of Katsina State and all Nigerians who mourn this great loss.
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.”

The late Buhari was a former Military Head of State and President of the Federal Republic. He finally succumbed to the cold hand of death early today after a prolong illness.

Progressive Governors Forum Condoles With Tinubu, Nigerians Over Buhari’s  Death

By
The Source
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Senator Hope Uzodimma

The Progressive Governors Forum has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, condoling with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Nigerian people, and the late President’s family.

In a condolence message personally signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, the governors said they received the news of former President Buhari’s passing with profound shock and sadness.

Governor Uzodimma stated that the Forum extends its heartfelt condolences to all Nigerians and the family of the late former President, describing his death as a monumental loss not just to his immediate family, but to the nation at large.

“With the passing of President Buhari, Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most emblematic figures of honest and dedicated leadership; an era shaped by integrity, patriotism, and uncommon sacrifice,” Uzodimma wrote.

Muhammadu Buhari

He described the late President as an unparalleled patriot who, after a distinguished career in the military, returned through democratic means to continue serving the country with honour and commitment.

Governor Uzodimma recalled Buhari’s notable track record in office, especially his determined stance against corruption and indiscipline, principles he upheld both as a military Head of State and as a democratically elected President.

He remarked that Buhari’s legacy as a moral compass for transparent and accountable governance will continue to inspire generations of leaders across Nigeria and Africa.

While mourning with President Tinubu, Nigerians, and the Buhari family, Governor Uzodimma prayed for the peaceful repose of the late President’s soul.

Prof Soyinka, Uncommon Patriot, Source Of Inspiration –  President Tinubu

By
Ayodele Oni
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Wole Soyinka and Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has described Prof Soyinka as an uncommon patriot who has continued to demonstrate his undying love for our country.

Tinubu, in a birthday message to the Nobel Laureate stated that “Even at the grand old age, he continues to be a source of inspiration to fellow citizens and people around the world.”

The President extended his good wishes to Prof Soyinka, the globally renowned literary icon and Nobel Laureate, as he celebrates his 91st birthday on Sunday .

In a statement, signed by the special adviser information and strategy to the president, Bayo Onanuga described Prof Soyinka, as a well-decorated literary giant, activist, cultural icon, and public intellectual, is known for his extraordinary creative and artistic talent, evident in his plays, poems, memoirs, essays, and other artistic productions.

President Tinubu notes the contributions of the first African to win the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986 to education, pro-democracy and human rights movements, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building over the last several decades.

He described Professor Soyinka as a massive source of inspiration to Nigerians and, most especially, generations of younger writers worldwide who, on their own, have also attained great national and international prominence.

President Tinubu acknowledges his decades of association, friendship, and collaboration with the accomplished statesman.

“I rejoice with Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, on reaching another year and praise his continuing service and contributions to our nation’s development.

“I value my association with Prof Soyinka and several collaborations to advance the progress and development of Nigeria.

“On this special day that marks the beginning of the journey into the last decade of his centennial, I wish Prof Wole Soyinka good health and more years in sound mind.”

Hoodlums Demand N30m For Release Of Kidnapped Chief Imam

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Abdulazeez Igbinidu

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Chairman of the Edo State Chapter of Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs NSCIA, Abdulazeez Igbinidu, has called on the Edo State Government and Security Agencies to take all necessary steps towards rescuing the Chief Imam of Uromi and President of the Edo/Delta branch of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria MSSN Sheikh Murtadho Muhammad from abductors den.

The Source reports that  the Muslim Cleric was reportedly abducted at about 2.00 pm on Saturday July 12, 2025, in Uromi, Esan North East Local Council of Edo State by suspected hoodlums.

According to eyewitness accounts, Sheikh Muhammad was kidnapped just a walking distance from his residence while trying to purchase some food items for  his family members.

The unfortunate incident has since caused palpable fears among residents of the  area, particularly Muslim faithful,.

Most residents are said to be greatly concerned about the safety of the Muslim Cleric, and are  fervently praying for his safe return .

The abductors are  demanding a  ransom of about N30 million.

As at the time of reporting. neither the Edo State Police Command ,nor the State authorities had reacted to the development.

However, confirming the incident to the Media on Sunday, July, 13, 2025 Alhaji Igbinidu condemned  the dastardly act , while also  calling for his unconditional release.

He urged all relevant authorities to ensure that the victim is safely reunited with his family and religious members.

“We understand the kidnappers are asking for a very huge amount of money and we don’t have such.

“Even if you have, if you do such a thing, you are encouraging them.

“Government and security agencies should intervene. They are the ones that have the apparatus for security.

“So they should do everything possible to ensure that Imam is released unconditionally and unhurt

“Government should also put all efforts to ensure that the citizens are able to sleep with their two eyes closed, as well as walk freely without fear of being abducted or assassinated”, the NSCIA Chairman stated.

Corpses Of Two Missing AAUA Students Found

By
Ayodele Oni
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Andrel Eloho Okah and John Friday Abba

By Ayodele Oni

After three weeks of search, the two missing students of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko in Ondo state (AAUA), Andrel Eloho Okah, and John Friday Abba, have been found dead.

The corpses of Okah, of the Department of History and International Studies in the Faculty of Art and Abba of the Department of Economics in the Faculty of Agriculture at the state university, were discovered over the weekend.

The sad development occurred three weeks after the duo were declared missing from the institution by their course mates.

A colleague who simply identified himself as Ajibola, who confirmed the news of the two missing students in a chat three weeks ago, said efforts to track the duo through their phone numbers have been abortive.

He explained that the two students have been absent from classes and academic activities on campus, saying their whereabouts has sparked outcry and concerns among fellow coursemates.

“For over two weeks now, the two of them have been missing from school and academic activities in class. We searched everywhere. We can’t find them, and we’re worried about their whereabouts.

“We don’t even know if it is a case of kidnapping or something else. The two of them are very close, though. But efforts to reach them through their phones have repeatedly failed. Their sudden disappearance is giving us concerns.

“We need help, and we have reported to the school management and the police, but we are not getting the response we needed. They are telling us to just calm down. There’s nothing tangible that has been done.

A security source confirmed the death of the two undergraduate students in a chat on Sunday.

“It’s sad to inform you that the two missing AAUA students have been killed by their suspected abductors, and their dead bodies have been found where they kept them.

“Some of our men are already on their way to recover their corpses inside the bush at a border town between Akoko and Ekiti,” the source said.

Olayinka Ayanlade, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the State, promised to get back when contacted over the development.

Northern Governors’ Forum, Fmr Senate President, Mourn Buhari

By
Ayodele Oni
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Muhammadu Buhari
Late Muhammadu Buhari

By Ayodele Oni

The Northern States Governors’ Forum, (NSGF), in a statement by the forum on Sunday, stated that it received with deep shock and immense sorrow the news of the demise of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to the Chairman of the forum and Governor of Gombe State,  Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in the condolence message he personally signed, he described the passing of the former Nigerian leader as a moment of great national mourning and an immense loss, not only to the North but to the entire nation.

“President Muhammadu Buhari was an iconic figure whose life embodied discipline, integrity and an steadfast commitment to the service of Nigeria.

“From his days as a young military officer to his tenure as military Head of State and later as a democratically elected President, Buhari distinguished himself as a leader of conviction and purpose. His legacy is one of sacrifice, selflessness, and steadfast commitment to the unity, security and progress of our dear country.

“To us in the Northern Governors’ Forum, President Buhari was not just a national icon, but also a mentor and moral compass, who stood firm on the principles of accountability, transparency and good governance.

“He mentored with humility, governed with courage and lived a life marked by simplicity and patriotism, Governor Yahaya said.

“Buhari’s death has left a huge vacuum which will be deeply felt across every sector of our national life.

“On behalf of the Northern Governors’ Forum, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his beloved family, the Daura Emirate, the government and people of Katsina State and indeed all Nigerians. We pray that Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives his shortcomings and grants him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.”

The National Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark stated that President Buhari passed away at the critical time when his fatherly advice was most needed to navigate through the murky water of the nation’s leadership.

According to Mark “Nigeria has lost a hero, an uncommon patriot and a selfless leader who gave his all for the good of our nation.

“The greatest sacrifice which would be difficult to fault was his love for this country, particularly, her unity.

“It is sad that President Buhari transited to the great beyond at this time, but we are consoled that his legacy of keeping the nation united will endure.”

Senator Mark was military Governor of Niger state between 1984 and 1986 under Buhari as Military Head of state.

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