Category: General News

‎Oba Ladoja Urges Oyo Indigenes to Enlist in Police.
‎
‎
‎By Adewale Owoade
‎
‎
‎The Olubadan of Ibadanland and Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged eligible indigenes of the state to take advantage of the ongoing police constable recruitment exercise to join the Nigeria Police Force.
‎

‎The monarch made the call on Tuesday in Ibadan while receiving the Chairman of All Police Matters and South-West representative on the Police Service Commission, DIG Tunde Lakanu.
‎

‎Oba Ladoja stressed that the responsibilities of law enforcement agents are too critical to be ignored, noting that beyond apprehending offenders, the police play a vital role in maintaining law and order.
‎

‎He added that although his jurisdiction as Olubadan covers 11 local government areas, he would liaise with members of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs to ensure the message reaches all parts of the state.
‎

‎The monarch also pledged the support and cooperation of the Olubadan Advisory Council, line chiefs, Baales, Mogajis, and Iyalodes in mobilising grassroots participation.
‎

‎He further emphasised the importance of the media in driving awareness, urging sustained engagement across print, electronic, and social platforms.
‎

‎Earlier, DIG Lakanu disclosed that the Police Service Commission is currently recruiting 50,000 constables nationwide.
‎
‎
He, however, expressed concern over the low turnout from the South-West region and called for increased participation.
‎

‎Lakanu appealed to traditional rulers to help publicise the exercise at the grassroots, adding that communities stand to benefit more from improved local representation in the police force.
‎

‎He also hinted at the prospect of state policing in Nigeria, noting that it would enhance security when fully operational.
‎

 

Group celebrates Gov. Mbah at 54, urges continuity

The Tomorrow Is Here Movement has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah on his 54th birthday anniversary and urged him to continue in his people-focussed and visionary leadership of Enugu State.

This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Enugu by the movement’s President, Chief Tony Okonkwo (‘Ome Na Nwayo’) on behalf of the executives and members of the organisation.

Okonkwo noted that the event provided the movement a meaningful opportunity to celebrate not only the anniversary of the  birth of the governor but also his visionary leadership.

According to him, we are also celebrating His Excellency’s dedication, and tireless commitment which he has demonstrated in the service of the people of Enugu State.

“Your administration has continued to inspire hope, confidence, and renewed belief in purposeful governance among the people.

“Your Excellency, since assuming office, your bold and transformative policies have continued to redefine governance and development across the state.

“Your unwavering focus on economic growth, youth empowerment, digital innovation, infrastructural development, and improved security has clearly positioned Enugu State on a progressive path toward sustainable prosperity.

“We particularly commend your visionary commitment to equipping the youths with modern skills in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation,” he said.

The movement boss noted that Mbah’s  forward-thinking approach had opened new opportunities for young people.

He said that the governor’s vision had also strengthened the foundation for a more productive and globally competitive Enugu State.

“As a movement deeply committed to progressive leadership and community development, the Tomorrow Is Here Movement remains proud to identify with your administration and its noble objectives.

“Your leadership style continues to inspire a new generation of leaders who believe in hard work, accountability, and service to the people,” he said.

Okonkwo prayed that the Almighty would continue to grant the governor wisdom, strength, sound health, and greater grace as you steer the affairs of Enugu State toward greater heights.

“May your years ahead be filled with continued success, fulfillment, and remarkable achievements in service to humanity.

“Once again, Your Excellency, we celebrate you today and always. Happy Birthday and many happy returns,” he added.

.

Igbo-Etiti Council Chairman felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, hails impactful leadership

 

The Chairman, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr. Eric Odo, has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah on his 54th birthday anniversary, while he hailed the governor’s impactful leadership.

 

Odo said this in a congratulatory birthday message he personally signed and issued to newsmen on Tuesday in Enugu.

 

According to him, I extend my warmest and heartfelt congratulations to the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, as he marks the joyous occasion of his 54th birthday.

 

 

“Your Excellency, your visionary, purposeful, impactful and result-driven leadership continues to illuminate the path of progress for our dear state.

 

“In a remarkably short period, your administration has ignited a new era of bold infrastructural renewal and economic transformation, thus redefining the development trajectory of Enugu State.

 

“With uncommon determination, you have set Enugu firmly on the path of economic expansion, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to elevating the state’s Gross Domestic Product from $4.4 billion to an ambitious $30 billion.

 

“This noble vision reflects an enduring belief in the limitless potential of our homeland,” he said.

 

 

The chairman appreciated the governor for the remarkable confidence his administration had inspired among both local and international investors; thus, positioning Enugu State as a flourishing hub for enterprise, innovation, and sustainable development.

 

“As you celebrate this significant milestone, it is my earnest prayer that the Almighty God will continue to bless you with greater wisdom, robust health, and renewed strength to sustain your noble service to the good people of Enugu State.

 

“May the years ahead bring even greater accomplishments and enduring legacy. Once again, happy birthday, Your Excellency,” he added.

 

By Abiodun Kolobo
The recent article by Abiodun Komolafe titled “Adeleke, Ede and the Limits of Edenisation” attempts to paint the administration of Ademola Adeleke as one driven by parochial interests and hometown favoritism. While criticism is an essential component of democratic discourse, such criticism must be anchored in fairness, balance, and verifiable facts. Unfortunately, the argument presented in that piece leans more toward political rhetoric than objective analysis.
At the heart of the article is the claim that Governor Adeleke is excessively concentrating development in his hometown of Ede. Yet, a careful look at developments across Osun State under the current administration tells a far more balanced story. Roads, schools, health facilities, and social programmes are being implemented across multiple senatorial districts, from Ilesa to Iwo and from Osogbo to Ife. These projects demonstrate a commitment to statewide development rather than a narrow hometown agenda.
The controversy surrounding the proposed relocation of the cargo airport from Ido-Osun has also been framed in a misleading way. Infrastructure decisions of such magnitude are often driven by technical, logistical, and economic considerations. To reduce the debate to a simplistic narrative of hometown favoritism ignores the complex realities of infrastructure planning and economic development. Airports, particularly cargo airports, must be positioned based on long-term economic viability, connectivity, and expansion potential.
Furthermore, the suggestion that the governor has filled government positions exclusively with individuals from Ede is both exaggerated and unfair. Like every administration, appointments reflect a combination of competence, trust, political collaboration, and regional representation. It is not unusual in Nigerian politics for leaders to appoint trusted allies, but such appointments do not automatically translate into systemic exclusion of others. Indeed, many key positions within the Osun government are held by individuals from different parts of the state.
The attempt to contrast Governor Adeleke with historic leaders such as Obafemi Awolowo is also somewhat misplaced. Awolowo remains an iconic figure in Nigerian political history, but governance contexts differ significantly across generations. The challenges facing today’s state governments—economic pressures, federal fiscal constraints, urban expansion, and infrastructure deficits—require pragmatic solutions rather than symbolic comparisons with the past.
Moreover, it is important to recognize that development in a leader’s hometown is not inherently illegitimate. Across the world, communities often benefit from leaders who emerge from them, not because of favoritism but because such communities historically lacked adequate infrastructure before their rise to prominence. What matters is whether such development occurs at the expense of other communities. In the case of Osun State, evidence does not support the claim of systematic neglect elsewhere.
The larger question should therefore not be where a road is constructed or where a project is sited, but whether the people of Osun are experiencing improved governance, economic opportunity, and social welfare. On that score, the Adeleke administration has initiated programmes in education, health, and infrastructure that reach far beyond Ede.
Political commentary must rise above local rivalries and partisan framing. Osun State’s development requires unity of purpose, constructive criticism, and honest engagement with facts. Reducing governance to accusations of “Edenisation” risks distracting from the real work of building a prosperous and inclusive state.
Ultimately, the true measure of leadership will not lie in rhetorical battles in newspaper columns but in the tangible improvements felt by the people across Osun’s towns and villages. On that front, the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke deserves to be assessed with fairness, not conjecture.

Abiodun Kolobo
Ile Apena
Ede

Dr Odumegwu felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures working assiduously for his re-election

A Frontline Politician and Elder Statesman, Dr Ejikeme Odumegwu, has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State on his 54th birthday anniversary, while assuring him of his commitment to work assiduously for his re-election.

Odumegwu, who holds the title of Owelle of Nsukka, gave the congratulatory message to Mbah in a statement issued to newsmen in his Enugu office on Tuesday.

He said that notwithstanding political differences, Gov. Mbah had set the pace in leadership and people-focussed governance among fellow Governors.

 

Odumegwu described Mbah as an impactful leader with a vision for tomorrow’s infrastructure, noting that his administration’s infrastructure development, programmes and policies have made Enugu State to stand out.

According to him, Mbah has placed technology-driven security measures in Enugu State, which has enhanced night life and business activities in the state.

“We are living witnesses to your giant strides in statewide roads construction and re-construction, educational upgrade, health, tech-innovation, youths empowerment and skills upscale programmes, environmental management and upgrading, upgrade on transport facilities and lots more.

 

“On behalf of myself and family, we wish you a wonderful and fulfilling 54 years birthday and pray that the good Lord grant you many more beautiful years ahead in good health.

“You have made us proud as Enugu State people, we are with you throughout this campaign period to the fulfillment of your re-election as we earnestly work and pray.

“I will voluntarily place the highest billboard in the most strategic location in Enugu in favour of your re-election campaign and continue to herald your exceptional qualities and achievements among my teeming supporters and followers as well as in public fora.

“May the Almighty always illuminate your path; as indeed it is a new dawn for us in Enugu State. Happy birthday Your Excellency,” he said.

President Tinubu felicitates Gov. Mbah at 54

President Bola Tinubu has felicitated Dr Peter Mbah, Enugu State Governor, on his 54th birthday on March 17, 2026.

This is contained in a statement issued by Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) on Tuesday.

Tinubu celebrated the lawyer and philanthropist, highlighting the tremendous progress recorded in Enugu State under his leadership over the past two years.

 

He particularly lauds Mbah’s bold commitment to the ideals of progressive governance and constitutional democracy, as exemplified in his administration’s transformational projects and programmes.

It would be recalled that Mbah was a private-sector player who had achieved success in the oil and gas sector before he was elected governor of Enugu State in 2023.

President Tinubu remarks: “During my official visit to Enugu in 2025, I witnessed firsthand what good and competent leadership, as demonstrated by Mbah, can accomplish when anchored on vision and service to the people.

“Dr Mbah’s inclusive governance and partnership with other Southeast governors is repositioning the region for economic and political transformation.”

Tinubu wishes the Enugu State Governor good health and renewed strength as he continues his good work in the state.

Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

‎

‎

‎By Adewale Owoade

‎

‎

‎An educationist, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Yeye (Dr.) Afolashade Shona-Aluko has urged women in society to remain focused, hardworking and confident, noting that they often have to work twice as hard as men to succeed in life.

‎

 

‎Yeye Shona-Aluko, who shared her life experiences as someone who rose from humble beginnings through God’s grace, resilience and hard work, said she never pursued a throne but rather that the throne found her as a result of her dedication and commitment.

‎

 

‎The Chief Executive Officer of DLA Children Playground Equipment and Toys Ltd. explained that her passion and commitment to education motivated her to venture into the supply of playground equipment and educational materials to schools across the country for more than 15 years.

‎

 

‎Because of her integrity and unblemished reputation, she has partnered with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and several State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) to supply educational equipment and materials to schools in order to enhance teaching and learning nationwide.

‎

 

‎A philanthropist at heart, Yeye Shona-Aluko has also been using her God-given resources to support women, youths, children and persons with disabilities, helping to make life more meaningful and bearable for them.

‎

 

‎Her immense contributions to children’s education also earned her recognition from Ikeja Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, which honoured her with an award. She has equally been supporting children with special needs by paying the salaries of teachers handling their education.

‎

 

‎As the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, she has empowered many women and youths through vocational training programmes such as tailoring, baking, hairdressing and other skills, with the aim of making beneficiaries self-reliant.

‎

 

‎Born in Kaduna over five decades ago, Yeye Afolashade Shona-Aluko embraced discipline and determination as guiding principles on her journey to greatness. She attended Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, Kwara State, before proceeding to the Federal College of Education, Kabuga, Kano State.

‎

 

‎Her pursuit of education was not without challenges, but resilience and perseverance paved the way for her academic success. She later advanced her studies at Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye—now Olabisi Onabanjo University—where she earned a degree in Educational Management.

‎

 

‎Yeye Shona-Aluko began her professional career as a classroom teacher, where she earned a reputation for discipline and commitment to her students, many of whom are today excelling in various professions.

‎

 

‎Over the years, her remarkable contributions to education, entrepreneurship and humanitarian service have earned her numerous awards, honours, recognitions and a chieftaincy title from the throne of the revered monarch, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

‎

 

‎She was installed as the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua in October 2025 by the Ooni of Ife at a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries from across the globe. The ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, witnessed a vibrant celebration on the installation day, which also boosted local economic activities.

‎

 

‎Among her numerous recognitions are the Philanthropist of the Year 2024 Award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FRCN Ibadan Chapel; the 2023 Sterling Award from the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN); and the Lagos State Ministry of Education Award for her contributions to special education.

‎

 

‎She has also received the Ikeja High School Leadership Award for her dedication to teachers and students, as well as the Oodua Special Recognition Award (OSRA) 2024.

‎

 

‎Other honours include the Golden Star Award for Empowerment and Community Development from Security Watch Africa in Doha, Qatar, and the Award of Excellence on Human Development and Social Services from the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.

‎

 

‎In 2025, Yeye Shona-Aluko received honorary doctorate degrees from European American University and Kingdom Life University, Florida, and she is also a Fellow of the Institute of Purchasing and Marketing Consultant.

‎

 

‎She currently serves as the National Matron of the Association of Female Artisans of Nigeria (AOFAW), an organisation with membership across all states of the federation.

‎

 

‎In recognition of her immense contributions to society and human development, she has been invited as a Special Guest of Honour to the Pan-Afrikan Drum Festival in Canada scheduled for July 2026. Earlier in June this year, she is also expected to receive the Silent Hero in Philanthropy Award.

‎

Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

 

‎

‎By Adewale Owoade.

‎

‎

‎The family of veteran Nigerian gospel singer and evangelist, Deborah Adebola Fasoyin, has dismissed reports of her death circulating on social media, describing the claims as false.

‎

‎

‎Rumours of the alleged death of the 86-year-old gospel icon began trending early Monday, sparking concern among fans and members of Nigeria’s gospel music community, with several online posts claiming the revered choir leader had passed away.

‎

 

‎However, a family member who spoke with journalists said the reports were unfounded, confirming that the veteran singer is alive and in good health.

‎

 

‎“The news is entirely fake. Mama is hale, hearty and healthy. There is no truth to the rumours,” the source said.

‎

 

‎Fasoyin is widely regarded as a pioneer of indigenous Yoruba gospel music. She rose to prominence as leader of the Good Women Choir of the Christ Apostolic Church, Ibadan.

‎

 

‎Born on March 1, 1940, in Oyo Town, she developed an early passion for music through her church choir.

‎

 

‎One of the choir’s most popular songs, Odun Nlo Sopin, became a household anthem played during end-of-year thanksgiving celebrations in many Nigerian homes.

‎

 

‎The choir has recorded over 25 albums, cementing Fasoyin’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential gospel music figures.

‎

 

‎Her family urged the public to verify information before sharing it online to avoid unnecessary panic.

‎

 

‎“Mama is doing well. There is no cause for alarm,” the source added.

‎

IPMAN felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures facilitating his re-election

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State on his 54th birthday anniversary, while assuring him of the association commitment to his re-election.

The Chairman , IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit, Mr Chinedu Anyaso, gave the congratulatory message to Mbah in a statement issued to newsmen in Enugu on Monday.

Anyaso noted that IPMAN and other petroleum industry bodies are proud that “one of our own, coming from the petroleum industry, is setting the pace in leadership and people-focussed governance in the country.”

The IPMAN boss described Mbah as an impactful leader, noting that his administration’s developmental infrastructure, programmes and policies had made the state better and “one to be reckoned with”.

He called for the sustenance of the technology-driven security measures in Enugu State, which, he said, had enhanced business activities in the state.

According to him, we are aware of your giant strides in education, health, tech-innovation, youths empowerment and skills upscale programmes, environmental management and upgrading, upgrade on transport and transport facilities and lots more.

“On behalf of the entire members of the IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit, we wish you a wonderful and fulfilling 54 years birthday and prayer that the good Lord grant you many more beautiful years ahead in good health and abundant grace.

“As our own, who have made us proud, we are with you throughout this campaign period to the fulfillment of your re-election as we earnestly work  and pray.

“May the Almighty always illuminate your path; as indeed it is a new dawn for us in Enugu State. Once again happy birthday Your Excellency,” he said.