Author: Wale Owoade

  • Oseni Mobilises Massive Support for Tinubu, Empowers Constituents

    Oseni Mobilises Massive Support for Tinubu, Empowers Constituents

      

    Oseni Mobilises Massive Support for Tinubu, Empowers Constituents

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rep. Aderemi Oseni, has declared that his political support group, Remi Oseni Committee of Friends (ROCOF), is committed to delivering one million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

     

    Oseni made the declaration during the ROCOF Constituency General Meeting, where he received thousands of defectors from other political parties and empowered members of his constituency.

     

    He explained that ROCOF was established to harmonise members, strengthen networking, and collectively strategise for the progress of both the group and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

     

    According to him, the platform also serves to motivate and encourage party faithful in recognition of their commitment to the APC.

    “We are not gathering for the sake of numbers, but for the betterment of all. We must move as a team to achieve our party’s common goals.

     

    “Our goal is to liberate those who have been politically marginalised and to ensure that indigent members of our constituency are properly empowered.

     

    “Our focus areas include education support, youth empowerment, skills acquisition, and assistance for market men and women to grow their businesses,” Oseni said.

    He added that the large turnout at the combined constituency programme signalled the APC’s readiness for victory in 2027.

     

    Oseni further described the successful conduct of the recent APC ward and local government congresses as evidence of the commitment of party leadership from the federal to the grassroots levels.

     

    Also speaking, the Chairman of ROCOF, Mr. Yemi Aderibigbe, described the group as a movement determined to add value to the APC, expressing confidence that the party would secure victory at all levels in 2027.

     

    “Our activities will strengthen the APC and position the party for a landslide victory in 2027. In Oyo State, we are not just contesting; we are preparing to take over the Government House,” he said.

     

    Highlights of the event included the presentation of cheques worth N1 million each to 20 selected youths in the constituency, as well as N100,000 grants to selected market women and artisans to support their businesses.

  • Ramadan Lecture: Foreign Alliances Must Not Undermine Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Adenitan Warns.

    Ramadan Lecture: Foreign Alliances Must Not Undermine Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Adenitan Warns.

     

    Ramadan Lecture: Foreign Alliances Must Not Undermine Nigeria’s Sovereignty, Adenitan Warns.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

     

    A broadcaster and Founder of Jagaban Communications, Mr. Samuel Adenitan, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu against excessive reliance on foreign alliances in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, stressing that national sovereignty must remain paramount.

     

     

    Adenitan gave the advice on Sunday in Ibadan at the 2026 Ramadan lecture organised by Jagaban TV, with the theme “Encouraging Ethical Governance and Personal Accountability in Both Public and Private Sectors.”

     

     

    The Executive Director of Jagaban Communications acknowledged that international partnerships could be useful in combating insecurity but warned that global powers often prioritise their own national interests.

     

     

    According to him, Nigeria must engage foreign nations strategically and cautiously, especially in areas of security cooperation and crime prevention, to avoid compromising its independence.

     

     

    “Nigeria must engage global powers strategically and carefully, particularly in areas of security cooperation and crime prevention.

    ‎”Global powers naturally pursue their national interests. Therefore, our engagements must always be guided by national interest, strategic diplomacy, and long-term sustainability, he said

     

    Adenitan also called on United States President Donald Trump to exercise restraint in interfering in the internal affairs of other countries in the pursuit of global influence and dominance.

     

     

    He further urged President Tinubu to embrace inclusive leadership by listening to criticism, noting that dissent should not be interpreted as hostility.

    “Criticism is not an attack; it is a mechanism of accountability,” Adenitan said.

     

     

    “Constructive criticism, even from within one’s own political party, is healthy for governance.

     

     

    “It acts as a system of checks and balances. A government that listens grows stronger, and a leader who listens becomes wiser.”

     

     

    The broadcaster also advocated the integration of digital voting transmission and modern technology into Nigeria’s electoral process to enhance transparency, reduce manipulation, and minimise human interference.

     

     

    In a separate lecture, the Founder of Safaudeen Islamic Organisation, Alhaji Sabit Olagoke, urged Nigerians to critically examine the background and character of those they elect into leadership positions.

     

     

    Olagoke observed that many Nigerians vote for candidates they know little about, only for such leaders to reveal questionable character after assuming office.

    Speaking on the topic “Integrity and Leadership: Lessons from the Prophets,” he described Nigeria’s leadership selection process as fundamentally flawed, contributing significantly to the nation’s socio-political challenges.

     

     

    “Our process of selecting leaders is fundamentally flawed,” he said.

     

     

    “Until we revisit and reform this process, we may never be able to produce leaders capable of effectively managing and sustaining democracy in Nigeria.”

  • Church Delivers Bride ‘To Satan’ Over Alleged Refusal of Sex

    Church Delivers Bride ‘To Satan’ Over Alleged Refusal of Sex

    ‎Church Delivers Bride ‘To Satan’ Over Alleged Refusal of Sex


    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎An Abuja-based church, Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide, has expelled a newly married woman, Oyiza, from its congregation for allegedly refusing to consummate her marriage with her husband, Isaac.

    ‎The couple, who resided in Ibadan, Oyo State, were joined in matrimony on September 6, 2025, after completing traditional rites in Okene, Kogi State, and a court wedding in Ibadan.

    ‎However, shortly after the ceremony, the marriage reportedly ran into crisis as the bride resisted her husband’s attempts at intimacy, insisting that she did not love him. She was said to have accused her mother of coercing her into the union.

    ‎Saturday PUNCH gathered that repeated efforts by both families and church leaders to resolve the dispute failed, as the bride allegedly remained adamant.

    ‎In a video posted on the church’s YouTube channel in February, the International Director of the movement, Pastor Paul Rika, announced her expulsion after five months of mediation.

    ‎During the announcement, the cleric described her as a “demon,” declared that she must be punished and accused her of spiritism. He urged members to pray for her “destruction,” alleging that she had brought shame to the assembly.

    ‎“So, we have delivered her to Satan. We have expelled, excommunicated her. You want to bring shame — what do you mean that you don’t love Isaac?” he said.

    ‎The cleric also referenced past cultural practices in which reluctant brides were compelled to go to their husbands’ homes.

    ‎Speaking in the video, Isaac described the marriage as suffocating.

    ‎“If I came back from work and sat at the dining table, she would say no. I was not even free until I bathed and changed my clothes. It was a struggle,” he said.

    ‎“In the kitchen, if she was cooking and I returned home tired, she would ask me to join her because I promised to assist her. Everything felt like I was in a cage.”

    ‎Isaac said he made several efforts to show love and affection but claimed his wife did not reciprocate.

    ‎Oyiza was not present in church to respond to the allegations levelled against her.

    ‎A marriage counsellor, Sunday Anani, who commented on the development, said societal pressure often forces individuals into marriages they are not emotionally prepared for.

    ‎“Society does not let some people be free. It is time for you to get married. Some would rather not touch the concept of marriage at all, but society forces them into it,” he said.

    ‎Anani noted that sexual trauma or previous abuse could also contribute to resistance to intimacy.

    ‎“Sex is emotional before it becomes physical. Without a heart connection, it is difficult, especially in marriage, for intimacy to happen,” he said.

    ‎“If someone has experienced sexual assault or near-rape in the past and has not healed from that trauma, it can make it difficult to open up to a partner.”

    ‎He also questioned the decision to proceed with the marriage despite prior reservations.

    ‎“If a woman has already told you she does not want sex, why go ahead to marry her?” he asked.

  • Makinde Commissions 540 Shops, Motor Park at Bodija, Orders End to Roadside Trading

    Makinde Commissions 540 Shops, Motor Park at Bodija, Orders End to Roadside Trading

    Makinde Commissions 540 Shops, Motor Park at Bodija, Orders End to Roadside Trading


    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday commissioned a motor park and 540 modern shops constructed by Ibadan North Local Government at Bodija Market, Ibadan, ordering the immediate relocation of roadside traders into the new facilities at no cost.

    ‎The governor, who named the ultra-modern shops and motor park after the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji Sunmaila Aderemi Jimoh, said the project aligns with his administration’s commitment to restoring order and improving the trading environment in the market.

    ‎Makinde disclosed that traders operating along the Bodija-UI Road would be relocated to another set of modern shops and a motor park to be constructed within the next six months.

    ‎“I am here because of you traders who will be using these facilities. The Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government has told you that these shops were built with your money — through our commonwealth and that of Ibadan North LG.

    ‎“There are 540 stalls and none of you will pay a dime for them.

    ‎“I urge you not to return to roadside trading. Everyone should move into the shops because there is enough space to accommodate all.

    ‎“I will inspect the land on the other side. We have a large space that can accommodate three times what has been built here.


    ‎” I will give the Chairman six months to complete the project so that those still trading by the roadside can relocate,” he said.

    ‎In his welcome address, Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Seun Olufade, commended the governor for what he described as unwavering commitment to people-centred governance.

    ‎He said the project demonstrated the governor’s dedication to improving residents’ lives, noting that traders previously faced exposure to harsh weather, insecurity and environmental hazards while operating by the roadside.

    ‎“Today, our traders have been relocated into comfortable and well-structured shops provided free of charge. This reflects your passion for the masses and your resolve to enhance livelihoods,” Olufade said.

    ‎In his goodwill message, the Babaloja-General of Oyo State, Alhaji Yekeen Abbas, thanked the governor for the project and urged traders to desist from roadside trading.

    ‎Also speaking, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji Jimoh, expressed appreciation to the governor for creating a conducive business environment in the state.

    ‎Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi.


    ‎Former Speaker, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Fola Oyekunle; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni; and other government officials, traditional rulers and labour leaders.

  • Ogundoyin @ 39: Hon. Olajide Hails Speaker’s Inclusive Legislative Style

    Ogundoyin @ 39: Hon. Olajide Hails Speaker’s Inclusive Legislative Style

    Ogundoyin @ 39: Hon. Olajide Hails Speaker’s Inclusive Legislative Style


    ‎By Adewale Owoade


    ‎The lawmaker representing Ibadan North Constituency I in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Olufunke Comforter Olajide, has congratulated the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, on the occasion of his 39th birthday, describing him as an exceptional and visionary legislative leader.

    ‎Olajide, who chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development, conveyed her felicitations in a statement issued on Tuesday, applauding the Speaker’s administrative acumen and inclusive leadership style.

    ‎She noted that Ogundoyin’s leadership has continued to define legislative excellence in the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly, promoting unity among lawmakers and strengthening democratic governance in the state.

    ‎According to her, the Speaker’s stewardship has enhanced the productivity and public relevance of the Assembly through people-oriented legislation and strategic institutional reforms.

    ‎“Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has demonstrated remarkable leadership and political maturity in piloting the affairs of the 10th Assembly.


    ‎”His commitment to legislative development, harmony among members, and dedicated service to the people of Oyo State is highly commendable,” she said.

    ‎Olajide further highlighted Ogundoyin’s support for gender-focused policies and community development initiatives, noting that his leadership has provided an enabling environment for committees, including Women Affairs and Community Development, to function effectively and deliver impactful results.

    ‎She prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and good health for the Speaker, expressing confidence that his tenure would record more milestones that would further advance governance and socio-economic development in Oyo State.

    ‎The lawmaker concluded by wishing him a fulfilling birthday celebration and many more years of impactful public service.

  • Oyo Police Neutralise Two, Intensify Manhunt After Foiled Attack

    Oyo Police Neutralise Two, Intensify Manhunt After Foiled Attack

    Oyo Police Neutralise Two, Intensify Manhunt After Foiled Attack



    ‎By Adewale Owoade



    ‎The Oyo State Police Command has foiled a planned deadly attack on Elebe Village in the Aleniboro area via Irawo Mine, neutralising two suspected bandits during an intelligence-led operation.

    ‎The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Monday.

    ‎According to the statement, the operation followed credible intelligence from a good Samaritan who alerted security operatives to the presence of about 10 armed men suspected to be bandits hiding in a farm settlement within Elebe Village.

    ‎The suspects were reportedly armed with two AK-47 rifles, single-barrel guns and cut-to-size locally made pistols, and were allegedly planning to launch an attack on the community under the cover of darkness.

    ‎Upon receiving the information, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Tede Division briefed the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, who immediately ordered the deployment of additional operational assets to the area.

    ‎Police operatives, in collaboration with members of the Agbekoya group and local hunters in Aleniboro, stormed the hideout. On sighting the advancing team, the hoodlums reportedly opened fire, resulting in a gun duel.

    ‎Two of the suspects were neutralised during the exchange, while others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.

    ‎A reinforcement patrol team later combed the surrounding bush and recovered one cut-to-size locally made pistol, one empty cartridge, two live cartridges, two expended 7.62mm AK-47 ammunition shells, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, two Tecno button phones and a bottle containing a suspected mixed drink.

    ‎The police said the area has been secured, while intensive bush-combing and surveillance operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and eliminate any residual threat to Elebe Village and neighbouring communities.

    ‎The Commissioner of Police commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continued support and provision of operational logistics to enhance the Command’s response to security threats.

    ‎The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in the fight against criminality.

  • Grassroots Governance: Olajide Inaugurates Community Projects, Supports Traders.

    Grassroots Governance: Olajide Inaugurates Community Projects, Supports Traders.

    Grassroots Governance: Olajide Inaugurates Community Projects, Supports Traders.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The lawmaker representing Ibadan North Constituency I in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Olufunke Comforter Olajide, has inaugurated Community Projects, supports for traders, said her legislative efforts are driven by a sense of destiny to bring development closer to her people.

     

    Olajide, who also chairs the House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development, made the remarks during an empowerment programme and commissioning of projects held at Mount Olivet Grammar School, Ashi Bodija, Ibadan.

     

    The event, organised as part of activities marking her birthday anniversary, featured the inauguration of several community-based projects across the constituency.

     

    Among the projects commissioned were a newly constructed Amotekun Office in Ashi Bodija; renovated shops belonging to the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) in Yemetu that were recently destroyed by fire; and newly drilled boreholes with generators installed at Yemetu, Oje Market and Ashi Bodija to provide alternative power supply.

     

    In addition, the lawmaker provided financial assistance to traders affected by the recent fire incident, distributed food items and gas stoves to vulnerable groups, and empowered over 200 trained youths with vocational start-up grants and tools.

     

    Speaking at the event, Olajide reaffirmed her commitment to delivering tangible dividends of democracy to her constituents.

     

    “I see myself fulfilling destiny by bringing development closer to my people in my own way,” she said.

     

    She assured residents that more projects would be delivered before the end of her current tenure and expressed optimism about achieving greater impact if given another mandate.

     

    “By the special grace of God, if given the opportunity to serve a second term, they should expect even greater impact. Even within the remaining period of this first term, there is still more to come,” she said.

     

    Olajide attributed her passion for service and her desire to make meaningful contributions to society.

     

    She also acknowledged the influence of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, noting that her initiatives align with the administration’s grassroots-focused development agenda.

     

    “As we follow in the footsteps of our governor, we are ensuring that governance is felt at the grassroots,” she added.

     

    As part of her education support initiative, the lawmaker announced free JAMB and NECO registration for 20 outstanding students of Mount Olivet Grammar School.

    Earlier, the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Olufunke, commended Olajide for her commitment to community development, describing the projects as reflective of the people-oriented policies of the Makinde administration.

     

    Similarly, the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Dayo Ogungbenro, urged beneficiaries to safeguard and properly maintain the facilities, especially the boreholes and generators.

     

    Other dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi Bibiire; member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DON); Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Balogun.

     

    Representative of the Speaker. Rt Honorable Adebo Ogundoyin, the Deputy Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly. Hon Fadeyi, Alhaja Bose Adedibu, Chairman Oyo State Youth Agency, Prince Adebowale,  Alhaja yeye Aare Mariaham Akinola (De Damac).

     

    Representative of Ayaba Mutiayat Olayinka Ladoja, Mogaji Abayomi, ODUDUWA women Advocacy Initialitative (OWAI) Ibadan North Party Chairman, Hon. Ademuyiwa Mustephea, All local Governments Excos, All councillors, Supers, Ward Excos, Wards chairmen and members of PDP families, friends and Host of others.

     

    Hon. Daud Olalere (Ibadan North West); Hon. Olasunkanmi Babalola (Egbeda); Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Seun Onifade; party leaders, community representatives and residents.

  • Folarin: APC Must Strengthen Unity and Trust to Secure Greater Success Ahead

    Folarin: APC Must Strengthen Unity and Trust to Secure Greater Success Ahead

     

    Folarin: APC Must Strengthen Unity and Trust to Secure Greater Success Ahead

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Senator Teslim Folarin, Oyo State Ambassador for the Renewed Hope Agenda, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to remain united in purpose, focused in action, and unwavering in their determination to deliver meaningful progress for the people.

     

    Folarin made this call during the inauguration ceremony of Local Government Area (LGA) Ambassadors for the Renewed Hope Agenda at the state party secretariat in Oke Ado, Ibadan.

     

    “As we move forward, let us remain united in purpose, focused in action, and unwavering in our determination to deliver meaningful progress for our people,” Folarin stated.

    He emphasised that through structured mobilization, cooperation, and collective responsibility, the APC will strengthen the party, deepen public trust, and position itself for greater success in the future.

     

    Folarin further charged the newly inaugurated LGA Ambassadors to be visible, humble, and uphold integrity, as the Renewed Hope Agenda is centered on people-focused governance, disciplined mobilization, and purposeful leadership.

     

    “Let me emphasise that leadership at this level demands visibility, humility, integrity, and consistency.

     

    “Your conduct must inspire confidence, command respect, and at all times reflect the values of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the APC. This assignment is not about titles, but about service, performance, and results.”

     

    He congratulated the newly inaugurated ambassadors and urged them to return to their Local Government Areas with clarity of mission, strength of character, and a renewed commitment to service.

     

    In his address, the Southwest Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, emphasised that the LGA Coordinators must work towards ensuring President Tinubu’s victory in the 2027 election by a landslide.

    He praised the president’s significant achievements, particularly in economic development.

     

    “You are ambassadors of Mr. President in your local governments. Please represent him well,” Adeyeye said. “You are tasked with promoting the president’s work and projecting his image to the people of your local government.”

    In their goodwill messages, Bayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, and Senator Safadeen Alli, encouraged the newly inaugurated LG Ambassadors to maintain good conduct, gather vital information, and stay disciplined as they take on their new responsibilities.

     

    The inauguration ceremony was attended by APC Chairman Alhaji Olayide Abas, who led his executive to the event, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, Convener of Peace Advocates Prince Niran Adeyoju, former state chairman Chief Akin Oke, Senator Ayoade Adeseun, and other distinguished guests.

  • Stakeholders urge government to harness youth population for bio-economic growth

    Stakeholders urge government to harness youth population for bio-economic growth

    Stakeholders urge government to harness youth population for bio-economic growth

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

     

    Stakeholders in agriculture and economic sectors have called on the government to harness opportunities in Nigeria’s huge youth population to boost the country’s economic diversification.

     

    The stakeholders, drawn from Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), academia, research institutions, youths, and farmers’ groups, made the submission at a two-day public-private dialogue on the implementation of the cassava bio-ethanol value chain development project.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop, organised by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in Ibadan for stakeholders in the southwest geopolitical zone, aimed to discuss how to harness cassava bio-ethanol utilisation in the industry and energy sector for economic transformation.

    The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Academy of Science, Dr. Doyin Odubanjo, said that Nigeria is yet to fully utilise its youth population, especially in the agriculture value chain, such as the bio-ethanol implementation project.

     

    According to him, more young citizens in their productive age must be encouraged by the government to get involved in anything related to agriculture, particularly cassava bio-ethanol diversification for alternative and cleaner energy for economic growth.

     

    “The youth are an ignored potential wealth of Nigeria. They are critical, and their population is a huge advantage that we have in Nigeria and Africa at large above the rest of the world, which we must maximise,” he said.

     

    He commended the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning for the inclusion of academia, research institutions, and other critical stakeholders like the Nigerian Academy of Science in the discourse towards effective implementation of the bio-ethanol value chain project.

     

    “We are working with the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, particularly on the bio-ethanol project, to ensure that everything that is done is evidence-based.

     

    “So what we’re doing is to ensure that this is not a white elephant project. As much as they work with the Nigerian Academy of Science, the academy’s responsibility is to provide technical support from the best brains in science among Nigerians and abroad.

     

    “We are also providing technical support and advice at every stage of the development of the bio-ethanol value chain,” he said.

    Similarly, the Project Consultant, Dr. Lanre Adekanye, urged the government to provide incentives that would attract youths to get involved in agriculture, especially the cassava bio-ethanol value chain project.

     

    “Our youths can be incentivised to be part of this project. Instead of looking for a white-collar job, a lot of opportunities abound in cassava and ethanol value chain projects.

     

    “Entry barriers facing youths to participate, such as barriers to resources, information, and other challenges, should be addressed by the government with proper sensitisation,” he said.

     

    A youth representative from Ekiti State, Comrade Ayuba Akinola, commended President Bola Tinubu for sustaining economic diversification drive through his renewed hope agenda so that Nigeria can meet up with the standard best practices obtainable around the globe.

     

    “Nigeria cannot be secluded from the realities of the 21st century, 21st century, which is diversification to bio-economy. Bio-economy enriches people, restores investors’ confidence, and is equally environmentally friendly,” he said.

    Another participant, Dr. Patricia Amaechi-Obi, from the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, said that women and youths in agriculture need to be empowered to overcome barriers such as land acquisition and funds so as to be able to actively participate in the project.

     

    The workshop also featured presentations on the project monitoring and evaluation strategies, tracking and presentation of certificate among others.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)