Category Archives: News

Ogun ends free entry at Olumo Rock

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The Ogun government says safety concerns informed its decision to introduce entry fees at the renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex.

Free entry to the site, which began after its relaunch, will end on Saturday, Aug. 23.

This is contained in a statement on Thursday by Mr Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Gov. Dapo Abiodun.

The governor thanked tourists and visitors for the unprecedented turnout recorded after the reopening of the complex.

He said the turnout underscored his administration’s commitment to repositioning the rock as a world-class tourist destination.

Abiodun explained that the free access initiative aimed to help tourists rediscover and appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Olumo Rock.

Reda Also: Ogun APC suspends Gbenga Daniel, one other

“This objective has been fully achieved with thousands of visitors taking advantage of the initiative,” he said.

He, however, raised concerns about overcrowding and public safety during the surge of visitors.

“At certain points, the crowd posed risks that could have led to a stampede but for the swift intervention of security agencies and on-site personnel,” he added.

The governor therefore directed that the free entry initiative will end on Saturday, Aug. 23.

“The Ogun government regrets any inconvenience this adjustment may cause and assures the public of its commitment to a safe and memorable experience,” Abiodun said.

(NAN)

Alaafin’s ultimatum to Ooni an empty threat from a dead empire — Ooni’s Spokesperson

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The ongoing tension between two revered Yoruba monarchs took a new turn on Tuesday after the Ooni of Ife’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, dismissed the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, as “an empty threat from a dead empire.”

The Alaafin had earlier demanded that the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, withdraw a chieftaincy title allegedly conferred on Ibadan-based businessman Chief Dotun Sanusi, insisting that the Ooni had no authority to bestow the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland. He argued that only the Alaafin, backed by a Supreme Court ruling, holds the right to confer such titles covering the entire Yorubaland.

Reacting via his WhatsApp status, Olafare dismissed the warning, describing those behind it as “jokers.”

“The Ooni is busy setting up businesses and creating jobs for youths across Yorubaland, while some people are fighting supremacy battles through an expired empire. Their 48-hour ultimatum will soon lapse. We are waiting. Dead empire,” he wrote.

Read Also: 11 celebrities who are traditional title holders in Nigeria

He added that while Ooni is preparing for the groundbreaking of the Ojaja Smart City in Ibadan, touted as Africa’s biggest, others are “wasting time issuing empty threats over a title that doesn’t even exist.”

Meanwhile, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti and paramount ruler of Mobaland, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, has also weighed in on the controversy. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Akogun Banjo Ayinde, the monarch clarified that there is no evidence that Ooni ever created or bestowed the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Ooni has never conceived it, talk less of installing anybody as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland. Anyone with verifiable evidence to the contrary should present it,” the Oore declared.

He further described the Alaafin’s claims as baseless, stressing that the Ooni, as the “Natural Father of the Yoruba race and spiritual head of the Oduduwa race worldwide,” holds the authority to bestow relevant traditional titles when necessary.

The clash has sparked widespread debate across the Southwest, with many observers urging caution to prevent the matter from escalating into a deeper traditional rivalry.

NBA condemns assault on Corps member in Anambra

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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the assault of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Jennifer Elobor, by security operatives in Anambra State, describing the act as “barbaric” and a violation of her fundamental human rights.

In a joint statement signed by NBA President, Afam Osigwe, and National Secretary, Mobolaji Ojibara, the association said the treatment meted out to Elobor was inhumane and unacceptable.

“The NBA commends the Anambra State Government for swiftly identifying and arresting the operatives responsible for this shocking incident. However, accountability must not end at arrests. The perpetrators must be promptly and diligently prosecuted in accordance with the law. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” the statement read.

Read Also: Ogun seals Gbenga Daniel’s house, hotels over alleged planning violations

The incident, which occurred in Oba community, went viral on Monday after a disturbing video showed members of Operation Udo Ga-Achi, also known as the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, assaulting and stripping Elobor. The operatives had accused her and other corps members of fraud, despite her pleas and presentation of her NYSC identification card.

The video sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria, drawing condemnation from the NYSC, politicians, civil society groups, and concerned citizens. The Anambra State Government has since confirmed the arrest of the culprits, with investigations currently ongoing.

The NBA stressed that the assault highlights the urgent need for better training and reorientation of security operatives across the country.

“Respect for human rights, professionalism, and restraint must be at the core of security operations. The government must ensure such violations never recur and reassure citizens that security agencies exist to protect, not abuse them,” the statement added.

The association further pledged to pursue justice for Elobor and to ensure that the case serves as a deterrent against future abuses.

Ogun APC suspends Gbenga Daniel, one other

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The All Progressives Congress Working Committee in Ogun has affirmed the suspension of  Sen. Gbenga Daniel and  Kunle Folarin, by their respective wards for alleged anti-party activities.

This is contained in a statement by Nuberu Olufemi,  the Director of Publicity, Ogun APC in Abeokuta.

According to the statement, the State Chairman of the party, Yemi Sanusi, chaired the meeting held on Tuesday, with 16 members present.

It stated that  the meeting considered the reports of the Disciplinary Committees investigating allegations of misconduct and anti-party activities against the two members in Ward IV Ward VI of Sagamu Local Government, respectively.

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” Ward IV, Sagamu local government, set up a disciplinary committee on the alleged misconduct bordering on anti-party activities committed by Daniel.

“Similarly, Ward VI set up a disciplinary committee on the allegations of gross misconduct and anti-party activities allegedly committed by  Folarin.

“They wrote to the members under investigation, inviting them to the disciplinary meetings at which they were to be heard and allowed to present evidence in their defense or request pardon from the party.

” However, both members failed to respond to the invitations extended to them in writing, failed to provide a written defence, and also failed to attend the disciplinary meetings at which they were to be given the opportunity to defend themselves.

” In view of their deliberate and unexplained absences, the committees deliberated as scheduled, heard from the available witnesses, considered the available documentary evidence, and deliberated on the allegations,” It stated

The party added that upon due consideration, the committees suspended the members indefinitely, pending further investigation and the outcome of the committees’ inquiry.

It explained that copies of the letters of indefinite suspension had been sent to the state chairman for consideration and approval of the State Working Committee.

“The SWC has ratified the suspensions. The meeting demonstrates the party’s commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding its constitution,” it stated.

(NAN)

‘Isese’ Day promotes cultural heritage — Lagos lawmaker 

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A Lagos lawmaker, Mr Stephen Ogundipe, says  the Isese (Sacred) Day encourages the the defence, promotion and preservation of Lagos cultural heritage with dignity and pride beyond prayers and rituals.

Ogundipe, who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Security and Strategy, made this known in a statement in Lagos on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Lagos State Government declared  Wednesday, Aug. 20 as a work free day in the state in commemoration of the ” 2025 Isese Day’.

Read Also: Lagos Assembly names new principal officers

Ogundipe, representing Oshodi-Isolo 1,urged religious tolerance, and mutual respect among all faiths and traditions, adding that it was only in unity that they could truly harness the richness of their diverse identities as a people.

“Sincerely, it is in the true believers of our noble heritage in celebrating our Traditional Rulers, High Chiefs, and revered custodians of culture, especially those who, that through daily worship, keep alive the sacred bonds with our ancestral deities.

“Isese is not merely a religious practice, it is a holistic way of life rooted in the wisdom of our forebears.

“This is anchored on prayers, offerings, and divination, and guided by the belief that ancestral spirits can illuminate our path through life’s many challenges.

“It is a cultural compass that calls us to purpose, resilience, and the fulfillment of destiny,” he said.

As we commemorate this year’s celebration, Ogundipe said it was his heartfelt prayer that Eledumare would remove out worries, ease their burdens, and grant them abundant peace, joy, and prosperity.

“May God Almighty strengthen their faith, accept the sacrifices and guide their endeavors.

“May He grant every traditional worshipper and indeed all the people of the state the true essence of this year’s Isese Day”.

NDA releases list of successful candidates for AFSB 2025

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The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has  announced the release of the authentic list of successful and reserve candidates for the Armed Forces Selection Board (AFSB) 2025.

The academy’s Public Relations Officer, Maj Mohammed Maidawa, made the announcement in a statement issued on Tuesday in Kaduna.

Read Also: Army debunks viral video of foreign arms dealer’s arrest in Zamfara

Maidawa said, “The public is advised to visit the NDA website at [https://nda.edu.ng/](https://nda.edu.ng/) as well as the Daily Trust and The Sun Newspapers of 19 August 2025 for the official list.

“We thank you for your patience and understanding.”

(NAN)

CHAN: Super Eagles B defeat Congo 2-0

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Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Team B, produced a spirited performance on Tuesday evening, defeating Congo 2-0 in their final Group D match of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The encounter took place at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with kick-off at exactly 6:00 p.m. local time.

Both nations had already been eliminated following earlier poor results, but the match provided an opportunity for pride, ranking, and a chance to end the tournament with dignity.

From the outset, the clash was fiercely contested, with both sides creating scoring chances. However, defensive solidity ensured that the first half ended goalless.

Nigeria eventually found the breakthrough when Anas Yusuf struck in the 57th minute, registering the Super Eagles’ first goal of the championship.

The goal energised the Nigerian team, who pressed forward with renewed confidence, forcing Congo into defensive errors and desperate clearances.

As Congo chased an equaliser, Nigeria capitalised on counterattacks. Substitute Alimi Yusuf doubled the advantage in the 93rd minute, sealing a deserved 2-0 victory.

Read Also: 2026 WCQ: Nigeria may qualify as South Africa risk losing 3 points

The late goal effectively ended Congo’s hopes of a comeback, leaving the Congolese side in deep disappointment as they finished bottom of the group with two points.

For Nigeria, the victory brought consolation. In spite of being eliminated due to earlier losses, the win lifted them to third place in Group D, above Congo.

The Super Eagles B had endured a difficult campaign, losing their opener 0-1 to Senegal and suffering a heavy 0-4 defeat to hosts Sudan.

Those results meant their chances of qualifying for the knockout stage were already extinguished before facing Congo, leaving the team to play only for pride.

Head coach Eric Chelle praised his players’ determination, noting that the team showed improved character compared with their earlier performances.

Supporters back home expressed mixed feelings. While pleased with the victory, many decried Nigeria’s inability to progress further in the continental competition.

Congo’s performance reflected resilience, but their inability to convert chances ultimately cost them. Their two draws and one defeat ensured an early exit from the tournament.

With the group stage concluded, Senegal and Sudan advanced to the knockout rounds, leaving Nigeria and Congo to reflect on missed opportunities.

(NAN)

Police detain tricyclist over officer’s death

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 The Police command in Gombe State on Tuesday confirmed the detention of a tricyclist for allegedly killing Insp Kambarawa Wazani, while enforcing the state’s motorcycle ban.

DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the command’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a press statement issued to journalists in Gombe.

He said the tragic incident occurred on Friday around 7 p.m. at the Deputy Governor’s office junction, Bauchi Road, Gombe.

According to him, the rider, speeding from Jeka da Fari, hit the officer, who later died shortly after being rushed to hospital.

“Kambarawa Wazani, 40, was hit by a reckless tricyclist during enforcement of the motorcycle restriction. Sadly, he lost his life in the line of duty,” he said.

Abdullahi confirmed that the tricyclist was detained after being discharged from hospital.

“The Command urges all road users to obey traffic rules and exercise caution, especially near police checkpoints, to avoid accidents and safeguard lives,” he said.

In a related development, Abdullahi dismissed false social media reports concerning a motorcycle accident at a police checkpoint.

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He clarified that contrary to claims, the rider was not carrying a pregnant woman, nor was he attacked by an officer.

The spokesperson explained that the rider, Rabi’u Gidado, was alone on a Haojue Lucky motorcycle when he sighted Police Patrol 999 personnel on duty.

“In an attempt to evade the checkpoint, he accelerated, lost control, and fell, sustaining an injury to his lower limb,” Abdullahi said.

He added that the victim was immediately taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, where he received treatment.

“Contrary to fake reports, he was not carrying a pregnant woman. The accident resulted from reckless speeding while evading lawful enforcement,” Abdullahi stressed.

He further said that efforts were ongoing to trace the originators of the misleading report for necessary legal action.

The spokesperson reiterated that the police remained committed to public safety, security, and the rule of law, while urging residents to cooperate with directives and avoid spreading misinformation.

(NAN) 

BBNaija 10: Zita replaces Doris as new Head of House

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Big Brother Naija Season 10 has taken an unexpected twist as Zita emerged the new Head of House, just 24 hours after Doris was crowned.

The development followed a surprise HOH challenger game introduced by Big Brother, where Zita outperformed fellow housemates Ivatar, Denari, Isabella, and Doris to claim the title.

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With her victory, Zita secured immunity from nominations, exclusive access to the Head of House lounge, and the power to influence house dynamics for the week.

Immediately after the challenge, Biggie instructed her to select a house guest, and without hesitation, she named Rooboy.

Zita’s sudden rise to power has set the stage for shifting alliances and fresh drama in the BBNaija 10 house.

Tinubu celebrates NDDC boss Ogbuku at 50 ‎

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President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), on his 50th birthday on Tuesday.

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‎The congratulatory message is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Monday in Abuja.

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‎ Ogbuku is a former executive member of the Ijaw Youth Council and a leader in the Niger Delta.

Read Also: Tinubu has been fair to all regions – Umahi

He had also served as Chief of Staff to former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva and Senior Special Assistant to former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege.
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‎The President noted the NDDC’s efforts under Ogbuku in infrastructure development and interventions in health, agriculture, and environmental remediation.
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‎Tinubu prayed for Ogbuku’s continued good health, wisdom, and many more years of impactful service to the nation.

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‎He extends his best wishes for a joyous and memorable celebration.

(NAN)