Category: Local

Ibadan, Oyo State – At his official coronation ceremony, the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, issued a passionate call for the creation of a new Ibadan State, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve the proposal before the end of his tenure. Addressing a jubilant crowd at the historic Mapo Hall, shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the 44th Olubadan emphasized the longstanding desire of his people for statehood. “My people sent me a message to Mr. President,” Oba Ladoja said, speaking in Yoruba. “Mr. President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority.” The call for Ibadan State has persisted for decades, and Oba Ladoja’s public appeal marks a significant moment in the renewed push for administrative autonomy for the region. Governor Makinde, in his remarks at the ceremony, described Oba Ladoja’s coronation as a historic and unifying event for the ancient city. He praised the peaceful transition process and expressed confidence in the monarch’s leadership. “The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all,” Makinde said. “It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and for Oyo State as a whole.” The coronation drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including: Prior to the public ceremony, traditional rites were conducted at the Labosinde Compound in Oja’ba, where Chief Waheed Popoola, the Afobaje of Ibadanland, placed Akoko leaves on Oba Ladoja’s head—an ancient ritual symbolizing the conferment of traditional authority. Following the rites, the monarch led a grand procession through the city, marking his first public appearance as Olubadan before a cheering crowd. Oba Ladoja’s reign begins with strong cultural significance and political ambition, as he positions himself not only as a custodian of tradition but also as a voice for the aspirations of his people.

A prominent Nigerian voice in the diaspora, Abanikanda Olumoro, has called for a comprehensive investigation into multiple corruption allegations against Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, warning that unresolved controversies must be addressed before he contests for higher political office. Writing from the United Kingdom, Olumoro urged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to uphold integrity by disqualifying candidates with pending corruption allegations from participating in future elections — particularly Tunji-Ojo, who is reportedly eyeing the Ondo North senatorial seat in 2027 and a potential governorship run in 2029. “He should not be allowed anywhere near contesting for either of the two important political offices he seeks,” Olumoro wrote, calling on President Bola Tinubu to ensure a credible investigation is conducted. Allegations Highlighted The article cites three major areas of concern that warrant investigation: Call for Transparency Olumoro clarified that the demand does not constitute an accusation of guilt but is a call for accountability, transparency, and due process. “Until he submits himself to transparent, credible investigation and clears his name, he should have no place in the race for Senate or governorship in Ondo State,” the article states. The statement reflects growing unease within Nigeria’s diaspora communities, particularly among those with ties to Ondo and Ekiti States. Broader Anti-Corruption Context The call follows an international anti-corruption conference held on September 18, 2025, co-hosted by the University of Lagos, Pan-Africana Strategic Group (PANAFSTRAG), and CISLAC. The event underscored corruption’s deep impact on governance, political credibility, and public trust in Nigeria. Olumoro warned that ignoring these allegations could pose serious political risks: “If the APC fails to enforce this standard of integrity, the consequences will be grave, unpredictable, and damaging — not only for the party but for Nigeria’s fragile democracy.” As of press time, the Interior Ministry has not responded to requests for comment.

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – The Niger-Delta Environmental Justice Coalition has lauded Tantita Security Services Limited for its critical role in reducing crude oil theft in the region, following a recent report by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) showing daily crude losses have plummeted to 9,600 barrels per day (bpd) — the lowest since 2009. In a statement issued on Friday, coalition spokesman Comrade Abalagha Adawari praised the bravery of Tantita operatives in securing vital oil infrastructure despite persistent threats. “The personnel of Tantita Security Services have risked their lives to combat notorious oil bunkers in the Niger Delta,” Adawari said. “The NUPRC report is a testament to their relentless efforts.” According to the NUPRC, oil losses from theft and metering issues between January and July 2025 totaled 2.04 million barrels, averaging 9,600 bpd — a dramatic improvement from the high-loss figures that have historically plagued Nigeria’s oil industry. The last time losses fell this low was in 2009, when they averaged 8,500 bpd. The coalition credited Tantita’s success to its deep knowledge of the Niger Delta terrain, strategic surveillance, and effective community engagement. “Tantita’s operatives are uniquely equipped to address this challenge. Their efforts have brought about a remarkable turnaround for Nigeria’s upstream oil sector,” Adawari added. The group called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to continue supporting Tantita’s initiatives, warning against sabotage or political interference that could reverse the gains. “Continued collaboration between the government and Tantita is essential to eliminating crude oil losses and securing a prosperous future for Nigeria’s oil industry,” the coalition emphasized. The NUPRC report highlights a key opportunity for Nigeria to boost oil revenues, reduce economic leakage, and improve investor confidence in the country’s energy sector. Tantita Security Services, owned by former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), was contracted by the federal government to help secure oil assets in 2022 — a move that has since yielded measurable results in curbing illegal bunkering and pipeline sabotage.

By Kamal Yalwa | Lagos, Nigeria The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released its preliminary report on the July 13 runway overrun involving an Air Peace Boeing 737-500 at Port Harcourt International Airport, revealing critical safety lapses — including alcohol and drug use among crew members. The flight, which departed Lagos with 96 passengers and seven crew members, landed under reportedly clear weather conditions. However, investigators found that the aircraft touched down nearly three-quarters down the 3,000-metre runway, leaving insufficient distance for a safe stop. The plane skidded off the paved surface onto a grassy area. No injuries were reported. Alcohol, Cannabis Found in Crew Tests In a troubling revelation, toxicology tests conducted after the incident showed that both pilots tested positive for alcohol, while a cabin crew member tested positive for cannabis. The NSIB described this as a “serious breach of aviation discipline and safety culture.” According to the report, the first officer had recommended a go-around after assessing the approach as unstable. However, the captain — a 64-year-old veteran with over 10,000 flight hours — reportedly dismissed the advice and proceeded to land, resulting in the runway excursion. Aviation analysts have warned that such breakdowns in cockpit communication and chain-of-command dynamics are hazardous and can lead to preventable accidents. NSIB Issues Directives to Air Peace In response to the findings, the NSIB has directed Air Peace to take immediate corrective actions, including: “Flying demands absolute discipline. There can be no compromise when safety is at stake,” the Bureau emphasized. Though no lives were lost in the incident, aviation stakeholders say the findings raise serious concerns about flight crew oversight and substance abuse within Nigeria’s aviation industry. Broader Implications for Nigerian Aviation The incident adds to mounting pressure on Nigerian carriers and regulators to tighten safety enforcement. Industry observers are calling for a comprehensive review of crew monitoring systems, enhanced oversight by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and stiffer penalties for safety violations. As investigations continue, the NSIB is expected to release a full report with further recommendations in the coming months.