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Deji Of Akure, Iralepo Isinkan Re-Ignite War Over Supremacy

By
Ayodele Oni
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Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo and Iralepo of Isinkan Oba Oluwagbemiga Olofin- Adimula

By Ayodele Oni

A Court of Appeal Judgement which declared that Isinkan, a community in Akure south local government is one of the quarters of Akure, has again re ignited the old war of supremacy between the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi and Iralepo of Isinkan.

The Court of Appeal presided over by Justice Fadawu Umaru also declared that the Deji of Akure, should have a say in who becomes the head of the Isinkan quarter.

Following the development, Ona Aladelusi has ordered the Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Gbenga Ojo to handover all palace properties within his possession to the appropriate quarters for proper documentation.

This followed the installation and appointment of  Gbenga Henry Adeyeye as the new Iralepo of Isikan quarters by the Deji, which now qualifies him to wear all paraphernalia of office attached to the stool of the Iralepo of Isikan.

Chief Press Secretary to the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Michael Adeyeye, in a statement said “We wish to inform Mr. Gbenga Ojo that any violation of the afore-stated shall be met stiffer penalties including committal proceedings.

“The presentation of certificate to the new Iralepo was witnessed by the Omowa of Isikan and other dignitaries at the palace of the Deji of Akure Land.

“The Palace wishes to congratulate the new Iralepo and urge him to ensure the development and progress of Isikan community under his watch.”

Reacting to comment from the Deji’s palace, Kayode Oluyi, Olisa of Isinkan and spokesman stated that the “ancient throne of the Iralepo of Isinkan is not such a child’s play susceptible to the theatre of absurdity.

“Henry Gbenga Adeyeye being now said to be appointed as High Chief Iralepo of Isinkan by the Deji of Akure contested with Oba Olugbenga Ojo for the throne of Iralepo in 2021 and was rejected by the Isinkan people for reasons bordering on his suitability and eligibility under customary law. He has since been hibernating in the palace of the Deji.

“For the avoidance of any doubt, we the people of Isinkan know ourselves by genealogy and proper birth.

“Besides, the Iralepo of Isinkan has from creation and time immemorial only been appointed by the people of Isinkan and never by the Deji of Akure nor subject to his approval.

“While we take due cognizance of the judgment of the Court of Appeal and exercising our further rights in that respect under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we wish to assure all that the throne of the Iralepo of Isinkan is not vacant as Oba Oluwagbemiga Ajimokunola Olofin-Adimula (Arulewolasi III), the Olusi Obarisa, remains, and sits on the throne and in the palace of the Iralepo of Isinkan.”

Police Moves To Rescue Two Adamawa Catholic Priests

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Two Adamawa Catholic Priests kidnapped

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Adamawa State Police authorities on Saturday, February 22,2025, said that efforts are underway to track down some suspected kidnapers of two Senior Catholic clerics in Numan Local Government Area .

This is just as they called for credible information that can assist in hunting down the hoodlums.

The Source reports that Rev Fathers Mathew David Dusami and Abraham Sammon of Yola Catholic Diocese and Jalingo Diocese, respectively, were reportedly abducted by some gunmen at their residence in Gwaida Malam in Numan Local Council of the State at about 4 am on Saturday.

A statement issued by the Adamawa Police Command Spokesperson, Suleiman Nguroje SP,  informed that the kidnappers invaded the homes of the clerics armed with dangerous  weapons and subsequently whisked them away.

According to the statement, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, has condemned the  abduction, describing it as unprovoked.

He, also, deplored  the kidnapping of innocent religious leaders who he noted are actively involved in the concerted efforts to foster and promote peace in the society .

The Command’s spokesman further noted that a crack team of operatives have been deployed with the mandate to locate and rescue unhurt the abducted Clericsas well as apprehend the hoodlums.

“The Progressive efforts of the Command will definitely bring the perpetrators and other persons involved to face the full wrath of the law.

“The Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and resisting all forms of violent crimes in the state” the police noted .

“The Command, however, called for sustained support from the public through the provision of timely and actionable intelligence on the activities of criminal elements.

” We seek the support and cooperation of the general public in the area of useful and timely  information that will aid the quest for the rescue of the victims and arrest of the criminals”, the statement further reads.

Senator Harry-Banigo Demands Investigation Into Bonny/Degema Flow Stations Explosions

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Dr Ipalibo Harry-Banigo

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Senator representing Rivers West Senatorial Zone at the National Assembly, Dr. Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, on Saturday, February 22, 2025, called on the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited NNPCL, to institute an inquest into  the incessant cases of  explosions that have been rocking oil facilities  within OML 18 in Bonny and Degema Councils of Rivers State.

The Source reports that the two vital oil facilities were, last Wednesday night, February 19, 2025, engulfed by fire resulting from a heavy explosion.

Although there has been no confirmed reports of human casualties, the two flow stations were severely damaged.

A video posted online by locals who witnessed the incident showed twin explosions at the oil facilities located close to Cawthone Channel off the coast of Bonny.

The blasts which resulted in a serious disruption of operations was said to have been caused by emission of excessive heat from a wielding facility.

Senator Banigo’s call comes on the heel of what she described as a worrisome recurrence of fire outbreaks within  the nation’s oil facilities.

It will be recalled that last Wednesday’s incident came less than  two weeks after the explosion that occurred  at the same OML 18, Oil facility in Bukuma Agum in same Degema Local Council.

In  a statement, Senator Banigo expressed serious concern over the frequency of the fire outbreaks.

“The recurrence of these fire outbreaks within the same OML 18, location in such a short time is deeply troubling.

“Any responsible society, organization, or institution should consider this a matter of grave concern.

The Senator who was the immediate past Deputy Governor of Rivers State, therefore, urged the NNPCL, as a major stakeholder, to carry out a comprehensive investigation with a view to ascertaining the true causes of the incessant inferno at the oil facilities.

He maintained that such recurring fire incidents is not in the best interest of the country.

She emphasized the imperativeness of the probe, ascertaining also the impact level of the  incidents on the environment, as well as the means of livelihoods of the people of the areas.

Police Storm Abductors Den In Akwa Ibom, Rescue One

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Baba Mohammed Azare - Akwa Ibom CP

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Akwa Ibom State  Police Command on Saturday, February, 22, 2025, announced the rescue of a kidnap victim and recovery of his stolen vehicle.

This is even as the State Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the commitment of the Command to protecting lives and properties of the residents .

A statement from the Command’s Spokesperson, Timfon John, DSP, indicated that the rescue of the victim was sequel to a tactical operation carried out in Ikot Ekpene area of the State.

“On February 13, 2025, based on a report that a man (name withheld) was kidnapped along Okop Eto Road and taken to an unknown destination by the kidnappers.

“Operatives of the Command based on credible intelligence swung into action and engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel.

“The hoodlums, overwhelmed by superior firepower fled with severe gunshot injuries, leaving the victim unharmed.

“The victim was rescued unhurt, his vehicle recovered  and has since been reunited with his family”, the police stated.

According to the Command, while efforts are underway to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects, a full scale investigation is ongoing, with a view to recovering all weapons used in the crime as well as bring those responsible to justice.

The State Commissioner, also commended the officers for their swift response and reassured residents of the readiness and commitment of the  Service to  the fight against crimes and criminal activities in the State.

He urged the public to remain calm, law  abiding, and to report any suspicious movements and activities around them.

Aiyedatiwa Identifies Obstacles Hindering Dev In Niger/Delta

By
Ayodele Oni
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Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has highlighted oil theft, insecurity, youth restiveness, and economic deprivation as part of problems that have hindered past developmental effort in the coastal area of the state.

The Governor was addressing delegates at the 15th anniversary of the Niger Delta National Youth and Development Stakeholders Forum, in Akure.

The four-day event themed “Collaborating with Youth and Development Stakeholders in the Niger Delta for Peace, Security, and Development,” brought together federal and state government officials, policy makers, and youth leaders from the nine Niger Delta states.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Aiyedatiwa,  Secretary of Ondo oil intervention agency, Abike Bayo-Ilawole emphasized the summit’s goal: to unlock the region’s potential, foster peace and security, and drive sustainable development.

He urged youths to reject violence and instead engage constructively with the government, presenting collaborative ideas to enhance the region’s progress.

“Restoring peace and security will create an environment where the government can effectively address youth concerns.

“This requires firm but objective enforcement, followed by sincere dialogue with community representatives.”

Aiyedatiwa outlined OSOPADEC’s commitment to youth empowerment through agribusiness and aquaculture, promoting self-reliance and wealth creation.

He listed skill acquisition programmes in fish farming, crop cultivation, and animal husbandry, alongside ongoing infrastructure projects such as road construction, potable water supply, electricity, shoreline protection, and land reclamation as some of the interventions in the region

“Additionally, the commission has secured grants and loans for youth entrepreneurs through the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) as part of broader financial strategies.”

He urged youths to take an active role in maintaining security, emphasizing that peace in the region requires collective effort.

The Niger Delta National Youth Development Stakeholders Forum serves as a platform for dialogue among youth leaders, government officials, civil society, and private sector actors to evaluate past and present initiatives and develop proactive strategies for sustainable partnership and development in the region.

Ondo: Aiyedatiwa, Adelami For Inauguration, As Governor, Deputy On Monday

By
Ayodele Oni
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Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Olayide Adelami

By Ayodele Oni

All is set for the swearing in of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as Governor and Olayide Adelami as deputy governor of Ondo state on Monday.

Aiyedatiwa’s inauguration followed his victory during last year’s Governorship election in the state on the ticket of the All Progressives Congress, (APC).

He will be completing the second term tenure of late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, whom he deputized till his death in 2023.

Already, Governor Aiyedatiwa has declared Monday, 24th of February 2025, as a public holiday in the State.

The work-free day will allow the people of the State to participate in the activities of the inauguration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Deputy Governor Olayide Owolabi Adelami.

The People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) candidate in the Governorship poll, Ajayi Agboola is challenging the outcome of the election at the tribunal.

Allegations Of Police Brutality Trail Osun LG Poll

By
Ayodele Oni
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Osun LG Election

By Ayodele Oni

Anxiety, tension reigned on Saturday, February, 22, as the Local Government Election took place in Osun State amidst allegations of excesses on the part of security agencies.

The Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, Hashim Abioye,  claimed that operatives of the Nigeria Police Force arrested staff of the Commission who were on election duty across the State.

Abioye made the claim in a statement issued via the Commission’s  official X page.

He ommended the electorate for coming out to exercise their right, and appealed to the media community for the inability of the commission to provide accreditation materials.

According to him, the sealing of the electoral body office by the Police was responsible for the lapses.

Abioye maintained that for the units where the material didn’t arrive early, it was due to the Police arrest of the officials conveying the materials, adding that new materials have been deployed and voting is ongoing.

He said, “Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested staff of the commission who are on election duty across the state.

“For the units where material didn’t arrive early, it was due to Police arrest of the officials conveying the materials. However, new materials have been deployed, and voting is now ongoing.”

Imo House Of Assembly Seeks Paternity Leave For Public/Civil Servants 

By
The Source
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Rt Hon Chike Olembe - Speaker Imo State House of Assembly

By Ikenna Samuelson

In a bid to foster family cohesion, stability and provide additional care for the newborn, the Imo State House Of Assembly has urged  Governor Hope Uzodimma to approve the introduction of paternity leave for male officers in the State Public/Civil Service.

This was the outcome of the Motion, during Plenary on Thursday 20th February 2025, Chiefly sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon. Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu.

Moving the Motion, Rt Hon. Iwuanyanwu, who is also the Member Representing Nwangele State Constituency, explained that it was borne out of necessity. He stated that newborns rely heavily on bonds with parents who influence their emotional, social,  environmental bonding, growth and development.

He highlighted the vital role fathers play in a child’s emotional, social, environmental, cognitive growth and development. He, also, stressed that introducing paternity leave for male officers would allow them to provide the much needed support for their wives who came out of the labour room. 

His words: “Imo State is a progressive State with a progressive Governor, who is willing to better the lot of Public/Civil Servants. Therefore, If this Motion is given the required nod, it will help to resolve a lot of marital issues. The Federal Government and some states like, Enugu, Oyo, Ondo and Lagos have implemented paternity leave policies, and it has geometrically improved Public/Civil Service morale, while strengthening family bond and unity”.

Senator Hope Uzodimma
Governor Hope Uzodimma

Iwuanyanwu further noted that the Federal Government had, earlier, in a circular issued on the 25th of November, 2022, through the immediate past Head of Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan approved paternity leave in the Public Service of the Federation, noting that 14 working days was approved.

The Motion which was seconded by the Chief Whip And Member Representing Oru-East State Constituency, Hon Chigozie Nwaneri, was co-sponsored by the following lawmakers :

* Hon Kanayo Onyemaechi.

  • Hon Chigozie Nwaneri.
  • Hon Johnleoba Iheoha.

* Hon Okey Ernest Udeze.

  • Hon Chisom Ojukwu.
  • Hon Obinna Ambrose Egu.
  • Hon Innocent Ikechukwu Ikpamezie.

Other lawmakers who supported the Motion with commendable submissions are:

▪︎Hon Kanayo Onyemaechi, Majority Leader (Owerri-west).

▪︎Hon Chigozie Nwaneri, Chief Whip (Oru-East).

▪︎Hon Barrister Chisom Ojukwu, (Nkwerre).

▪︎Hon Okey Ernest Udeze (Ideato-North).

▪︎Hon Prince Obinna Ambrose Egu, PhD (Ngor/Okpala).

▪︎Hon Sam Ikechukwu Osuji (Isiala Mbano).

▪︎Rt Honourable Barrister Kennedy Chidozie Ibeh (Obowo).

▪︎Hon Dr Uzoma Francis Osuoha (Ohaji-Egbema).

▪︎Hon Engr Gilbert Chiedozie Nwosu, FNSE (Oguta).

▪︎Hon Chief James Uba Esile (Onuimo).

Impressed by the submissions of his  Colleagues, the Speaker, Rt Honourable Chike Olemgbe, who presided, put it to vote and it was unanimously adopted. Thereafter, he Ruled as follows :

“Be it resolved by this Honourable House to urge the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma to approve the introduction of 14 working days Paternity Leave Policy in the Imo State Public/Civil Service and subsequently, direct the Head Of Service of the State to issue a circular to that effect.”

The Clerk was directed to communicate the Resolution of the House to the Appropriate Quarters.

PSC Chairman Laments  Human Rights Violations In South-east, Threatens Erring Officers

By
The Source
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Hashimu Argungu - PSC Chairman

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission,  DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, has decried the worsening human rights violations in the South-east States of the country, and threatened that the Commission will no longer tolerate this serious act of indiscipline from any serving Police Officer.

DIG Argungu said the Commission will henceforth  not hesitate to put its disciplinary  processes  in motion to see to the dismissal  of errant  Officers who have found it difficult  to work within approved boundaries.

He spoke at the South East Stakeholders Summit on Peace and security and Public Hearing  on Human Rights  violations in South East of Nigeria which is currently ongoing in Enugu.

His goodwill message at the Summit was presented on his behalf by the Head of Press and Public Relations/ Spokesman of the Commission,  Mr. Ikechukwu Ani.

The PSC Chairman said the Commission is aware of  the serious human rights violations  by some misguided Police Officers in the South East, ” who against the Commission’s several warnings to stay away  from civil matters have continued  to swim in it  because of the financial attraction “.

He said the Commission has severally warned that Police Officers should stay clear of land matters, debt and rent collection, marital disputes and other civil matters and allow the courts  to do their duties. ” But we have discovered  that the allure of filthy money has become their albatross as they have continued  to perpetuate this evil act”.

DIG Argungu said  he was excited that the summit is holding in Enugu, the colonial capital of Eastern Nigeria. According to him, the Eastern Region has of late become the hot bed of insecurity in the country and the unofficial Headquarters  of Human Rights violations.

He commended the Organizers of the programme  for bringing the searchlight on this topical national issue.

The PSC Chairman said the Commission whole heartedly  identifies with the Organizers “on this mission in the South East, adding that the zone needs peace and security.

According to DIG Argungu “the Commission is very much interested in what is happening  here especially as it affects the entire South East.

“we are no more comfortable  with the abuse of Office by some security personnel  detailed  to provide security  across the region. We understand  there is a high level of insecurity in the zone especially with the ceaseless and senseless attacks from brainwashed youths from this zone masquerading as freedom Fighters and killing their brothers and sisters”

He said the Commission has also continued to observe the corruption  and extortion that dots all the roads traversing the region ” by virtually all the security operatives who are supposed to safeguard the roads and restore unhindered movement of people, goods and services. The road blocks mounted by these security Agencies, he lamented ” have unfortunately  turned into toll gates where road users are forced under gunpoint to part with money”.

The PSC Chsirman told the summit that the South East must be freed of these gangs of Police Men who have found it difficult to work within established boundaries.

He commended the Governor of Enugu State,  Dr. Peter Mbah for the transformative  governance that he has brought to the state especially in the area of security..” I am aware  that Enugu State has redeemed itself from the Monday Sit at home that had crippled the economy of the state and other South East states.

He assured the Governor that the Commission  will always stand by him to collectively fight “this war to comprehensively  free the zone of banditry, crime and criminality  and other emerging security menace in the South East of Nigeria.

Osun LG Election: “I said Nothing Negative About Tinubu, He Is True Democrat” – Gov. Adeleke

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Bola Tinubu and Ademola Adeleke

By Adesina Soyooye

All the obstacles thrown on the way of the Osun State Local Council Elections, notwithstanding, the exercise took off peacefully on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

While he voted at his ward in his Community, Ede, Governor Ademola Adeleke hailed President Bola Tinubu as a true democrat.

Adeleke emphasised that he has the utmost respect for Tinubu, especially, for his solid democratic credentials, and so, did not, and would never say anything negative about him.

Adeleke, who spoke after he cast his vote praised President Tinubu for his support for the rule of law. He noted that it was that support that has ensured the peaceful conduct of the ongoing Local Government Elections in the State.

According to the Governor’s Spokesperson  Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke noted the collaborative relationship between the Osun State Government and the Federal Government “as a key factor in the peaceful conduct of the elections”.

His words: “The President is a true democrat who believes in the rule of law and the sanctity of the judicial process. His commitment to upholding democratic principles has played a vital role in the peaceful atmosphere we are witnessing today.

“In my first state broadcast on this matter, I affirmed my respect for the President’s dedication to democracy and the rule of law. Mr. President will never support any action that violates the constitution or endangers peace.

“I have confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership.

“We know the President will always insist on fairness and justice.”

Both the Federal Government and the Police had, inexplicably asked the Governor not to proceed with the Election. This was after the All Progressives Congress forcefully took over the headquarters of Local Government Areas in the State, citing a disputed Court of Appeal ruling.

However, on Friday, an Osun State High Court gave the State a go-ahead to hold the Elections. But just as the exercise was going on peacefully, the Police, who did not show up at voting centres, sealed the Headquarters of the Osun State  Independent Electoral Commission.

Governor Adeleke cast his vote at Ward 02, Unit 09, Sagba Abogunde in Ede, as early as 7.55 a.m.

Following his vote, the governor encouraged eligible citizens to participate actively in the electoral process.

“Grassroots democracy is essential for national development. I urge everyone to come out and vote without fear or intimidation.”

He praised the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) for its efficient organization of the polls.

“The seamless voting process is a testament to the commission’s dedication and hard work,” Adeleke noted.

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