Ajuwale Stool: Protest Rocks Ijebu Ode Over Alleged Imposition

Indigenes and residents of Ijebu Ode held a protest on Friday morning, marching from the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Archway to the Ijebu Ode Local Government Headquarters to oppose what they described as attempts by “powerful interests” to influence the selection of the next Awujale. The demonstration followed a circular issued by the Ogun State Government on January 20, 2026, which barred the kingmakers from advancing the selection of a candidate from the 95 nominees submitted by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House. Leaders of the ruling house include Otunba Lateef Owoyemi (Olori Ebi), Prince Adedokun Ajidagba (Deputy Olori Ebi), and Professor Fassy Yusuf (Vice Chairman). The circular, issued by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, has fueled allegations that Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration is attempting to interfere in the traditional selection process to favor a preferred candidate. Mrs. Adenugba Obileye, who led the peaceful protest, said the march was meant to express the community’s disapproval of what she called “plots to interfere with the work of the kingmakers” and to ensure that the Awujale is selected through proper traditional procedures. “We are here to register our displeasure and demand that the kingmakers be allowed to perform their constitutional duty without interference. The people of Ijebu will not accept any attempt to impose a candidate outside the traditional process,” Mrs. Obileye said.

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Stop Calling Me “Bro” or “Blood” – 22-Year-Old Ondo Monarch Oba Akinghare II Warns Public

The palace of the Arujale-Ojime of Okeluse Kingdom in Ondo State has issued a stern warning to the public against addressing the traditional ruler, Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II, in informal or disrespectful ways. In a statement released on Friday, the monarch’s Chief of Staff, Prince Adefemi Olorunfemi, stressed that the 22-year-old king must always be referred to as His Royal Majesty, cautioning that casual or derogatory forms of address would no longer be tolerated. The palace noted that some individuals have been calling the young monarch “bro” or “blood,” actions described as attempts to undermine the dignity of the throne. “I write on behalf of the palace to draw the attention of the general public to an issue that must be corrected immediately. Alayeluwa Oba Oloyede Adekoya Akinghare II is to be addressed strictly as His Royal Majesty at all times. Any deviation from this is unacceptable,” the statement said. Prince Olorunfemi emphasized that the king’s youth does not lessen his authority, noting that age is not a measure of respect for the throne. “The fact that His Royal Majesty is the youngest king in Yorubaland does not permit any form of disrespect. Using casual or demeaning terms such as ‘bro’ or ‘blood’ is highly inappropriate and will attract firm and decisive action,” the statement added. He also highlighted that the monarch’s calm and tolerant nature should not be misinterpreted as weakness. “Our customs demand respect for constituted authority. Regardless of age, status, or social standing, respect for the king is non-negotiable. His Royal Majesty is Igbakeji awon orisa, the representative of the gods on earth. The throne he occupies is sacred, and honouring it preserves our cultural identity,” Prince Olorunfemi said. The palace urged residents of Okeluse Kingdom and the wider public to always uphold the dignity of the monarchy, stressing that respect for the throne is central to Yoruba heritage. Oba Akinghare ascended the throne at age 16 while still in secondary school, following the death of his father. As the only son among four children, tradition required that he succeed his late father. The kingmakers promptly presented him as the new ruler, a decision later ratified by the Ondo State Government.

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Drug war: Marwa Sets 2026 Operational Targets for NDLEA Commanders

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), has set the tone for the 2026 operational goals with a high-level strategic meeting with directors, commanders and heads of formations during which he charged them to sustain the current momentum in the war against illicit substances by going all out to dismantle drug cartels and intensify sensitization efforts across the country. Marwa gave the charge at the annual review and planning meeting that brought together, at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja, the top echelon of the Agency, including: members of the Management; Zonal Commanders; Commanders from the 36 states and the FCT; Commanders of Seaports and International Airports; the Marine Unit Commander; Commanders of the Strike Force and the Special Operations Units, among others. ​Addressing the Commanders, Marwa emphasized that the Agency has kicked off the year on a strong footing, building on the record-breaking successes of previous years. He noted that 2026 would be a year of unprecedented consolidation especially in the areas of Drug Supply Reduction (DSR) and Drug Demand Reduction (DDR). “The results we achieved last year were significant, but we cannot afford to rest on our oars. Our 2026 goals are clear: we are here to completely disrupt the financial lifelines of drug cartels and ensure that every community in Nigeria is sensitized against the scourge of substance abuse”, he declared. ​During the session, he directed the various Commands to ensure a seamless execution of the 2026 strategic work plan. According to him, “When I first assumed office, I made certain declarations about the direction of this Agency and the resolve to confront drug barons and kingpins. Looking back, the progress achieved is the result of your collective efforts, and all glory belongs to God. “We have now successfully concluded five years, which passed remarkably quickly. While we acknowledge the achievements recorded during this period, we must not rest on our past successes. Rather, we must consolidate these gains and aim for even greater outcomes. Today, the Agency commands increased respect, both locally and internationally, and you should be proud to identify yourselves anywhere as officers and men of this Agency. “The renewal of my tenure by the President is largely a reflection of your work. While I may issue directives, real impact comes from seizures made, arrests effected, and convictions secured in the field. Without these results, there would be nothing to communicate to the public. For this reason, I sincerely appreciate your diligence, commitment, and hard work. “This year, we are here to set clear targets. Directors have already submitted their proposed objectives, but these will only be complete with input from commanders. Discipline and professional conduct must remain central to our operations. “Operational professionalism and zero tolerance for compromise are non-negotiable. Commanders must ensure thorough surveillance and planning before any operation. Where operational capacity is insufficient, commanders must request reinforcement rather than risk avoidable casualties. Advocacy and sensitization efforts have recorded encouraging progress, particularly in schools and communities nationwide. These efforts must be intensified. “State Drug Control Committees must be strengthened across all states, with efforts extended down to local government and ward levels. This year, all states must have functional committees. I urge all commanders to remain focused, professional, and committed to the mandate of the Agency. Together, we will continue to strengthen our impact and uphold the confidence reposed in us.” The NDLEA boss reassured the public that the Agency remains more committed than ever to protecting Nigerian youths and families from the drug scourge. He said the Agency’s strong footing at the start of 2026 is a signal to drug cartels that there will be no vacuum or breathing space for their illicit trade. He encouraged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to the Agency, reminding all that the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking is a collective responsibility.

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Gombe Army Trainee Ibrahim Nazifi Dies During Training At Zaria Depot

The Gombe State Government has announced the death of Ibrahim Nazifi, a newly recruited Nigerian Army trainee, who passed away while undergoing training at the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria. Nazifi was part of the first group of successful candidates from Gombe State in the Nigerian Army Regular Recruit Intake (NA RRI 90). In a statement on Thursday, Ambassador Yusuf Danbayo, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters and Intergovernmental Affairs, said the recruit died following a brief illness at the training facility. Danbayo identified Nazifi as a native of Buba Bani Village, Kashere Ward, Akko Local Government Area, with application number 90RRI-GO-9017726. “It is with deep sorrow, humility, and submission to the will of Almighty Allah that I announce the passing of Ibrahim Nazifi, one of our promising recruits at the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria,” Danbayo said. He described Nazifi as a patriotic young man who answered the call to serve his country and noted that his loss is deeply felt by his family, the Gombe State Government, the people of Akko Local Government Area, and the wider state. “The pain of this loss is shared by his family and the entire people of Gombe State,” he added. Danbayo extended the government’s condolences to the deceased’s family, relatives, friends, and colleagues, praying for mercy on his soul. “We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his efforts as acts of worship, and grants him Aljannatul Firdaus,” he said, emphasizing that the incident serves as a solemn reminder of the transient nature of life and that every soul shall taste death, returning ultimately to Allah.

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Tinubu Approves Commercial Oil Drilling In Ogun

President Bola Tinubu has given the go-ahead for commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island in Ipokia Local Government Area, Ogun State, signaling a major step for the state’s coastal development. Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the approval on Thursday while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, and senior officers during a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The governor also disclosed that Tinubu has authorized the immediate launch of the Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, ending years of anticipation for the multibillion-dollar port. According to Abiodun, both projects hold particular significance for the President. While the Olokola Deep Seaport is expected to reduce congestion at Lagos ports, commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island aims to foster economic inclusion and empower residents of coastal communities. “Mr President has approved the start of commercial oil drilling at Tongeji Island, and activities will soon begin there. Our Olokola Port project, long in the planning stages, is now officially back on track. I sincerely thank Mr President, as this initiative comes entirely from him. In just the past two weeks, we have held multiple meetings on Olokola, and the President is committed to making this port a reality,” the governor said. Abiodun added that the President has instructed that port construction be significantly advanced by next year. The project, to be named the Blue Marine Economic Zone, will serve as a strategic coastal hub and provide an alternative logistics corridor to ease pressure on Lagos ports. The governor also commended the Nigerian Navy for establishing a Forward Operations Base at Tongeji Island, noting that the presence of naval forces will help prevent incursions from the Republic of Benin and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Abiodun said his administration is working to improve living conditions on the island by providing basic amenities to support residents and boost emerging economic activities. He also praised the Navy’s role in Ogun State’s security, emphasizing that inter-agency cooperation has helped maintain the state’s relative peace. Describing Rear Admiral Mustapha as a highly experienced officer, Abiodun expressed confidence that Ogun State would benefit from enhanced security and development under his leadership. “We are happy that someone with your training, background, and experience is in this role. You are truly a round peg in a round hole,” he said.

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Lagos Police Warn Against Fake Bomb Scares After Ikeja Schools Threat Messages

The Lagos State Police Command has issued a strong warning to residents over the spread of false security alerts after anonymous messages sparked panic at two private secondary schools in Ikeja. The caution was given by the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, through a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Abimbola Adebisi, following reports of an alleged bomb threat sent to the schools. According to the police, the Human Resources Manager and the Chief Security Officer of the affected institutions separately reported the incident at the Ikeja Divisional Police Headquarters after receiving threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified phone number at about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. “The reports were made about 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday after they received threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified phone number. “Upon receiving the reports, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, immediately mobilised a high-powered security team and personally led operatives to the schools for an on-the-spot assessment. “The team comprised personnel from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), and other tactical units of the command,” Adebisi said. She disclosed that EOD-CBRN experts carried out a detailed and methodical sweep of the school premises to rule out any danger. “The operation covered classrooms, administrative offices, halls, playgrounds, and surrounding areas to rule out the presence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) or other dangerous materials. “No explosive or hazardous items were found, and the schools were subsequently declared safe for continued academic and administrative activities,” she said. Adebisi added that the police commissioner expressed displeasure over the circulation of false information and directed that investigations be intensified to track down those behind the threat messages and bring them to justice. She also revealed that joint teams of police operatives have now been permanently deployed to the schools to provide 24-hour security for students, staff and facilities. Reassuring parents, guardians and school authorities, the police spokesperson affirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State. She urged members of the public to remain calm, stay alert and report any suspicious activities to nearby police stations or through the command’s emergency lines. It was gathered that immediately after the threats were received, the two schools located in Ikeja GRA sent their students home as a precaution. Parents were contacted and advised to keep their children at home over the alleged bomb scare until security agencies confirmed that the situation was under control.

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“I’ve No Defection Plan” – Makinde Reaffirms Commitment To PDP

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has put to rest speculation about leaving the Peoples Democratic Party, insisting that he is firmly rooted in the opposition. Speaking with journalists at the State House in Abuja on Thursday during a visit to the Presidential Villa, Makinde emphasized his commitment to the PDP. In a video shared by NTA, he said, “No, no, no. I’m comfortable in the PDP.” He further highlighted the need for collaboration across party lines on national issues, saying, “Sometimes in this country, you need a bipartisan approach. It shouldn’t be just APC talking alone or PDP talking alone. You have to consider the best way forward in the interest of the nation. When you reach that point, you need everyone on board.” The statement comes after reports that President Bola Tinubu held separate meetings with Makinde and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

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Supreme Court Ends Kudirat Abiola Murder Case

The Supreme Court has brought a definitive close to the prolonged murder case of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, rejecting efforts by the Lagos State Government to reopen the prosecution of former Chief Security Officer to General Sani Abacha, Major Hamza Al-Mustapha (retd.). In a unanimous ruling delivered on Thursday, a five-member panel of the apex court held that Lagos State effectively abandoned its appeal by taking no procedural steps for nine years after being granted permission to challenge Al-Mustapha’s acquittal. Kudirat Abiola, wife of the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, was assassinated in Lagos on June 4, 1996, during intense nationwide protests against the annulment of the election. Justice Uwani Aba-Aji, who read the lead ruling, described the conduct of the Lagos State Government as “inexcusable,” noting that despite receiving leave from the Supreme Court in 2014 to appeal out of time, the state failed to act within the period provided by the court. At the hearing, Al-Mustapha’s counsel, Paul Daudu (SAN), informed the court that the state neither filed a notice of appeal nor took any steps to prosecute the matter since the order was granted. He reminded the panel that Lagos State was given 30 days in 2014 to file the necessary processes but did nothing, a clear indication, he argued, that the appeal had been abandoned. Daudu therefore urged the court to dismiss the appeal in its entirety. Justice Aba-Aji confirmed that court records showed Lagos State was properly served with hearing notices but failed to appear in court or provide any explanation for its absence. She stressed that nine years was more than sufficient time for any serious litigant to act. The court further expressed dissatisfaction that the state government neither entered an appearance nor communicated with the court, despite being aware of the proceedings since 2020. As a result, the appeal marked SC/CR/45/2014 was dismissed for want of diligent prosecution. Another related appeal filed by Lagos State, marked SC/CR/6/2014, was also struck out on the same grounds. In 2014, the Supreme Court, in a ruling delivered by a seven-member panel led by then Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, had granted Lagos State leave to appeal against the July 12, 2013, judgment of the Court of Appeal, which discharged and acquitted Al-Mustapha. The court directed the state to file its notice of appeal within 30 days, following claims that it needed time to review the case and challenge the appellate court’s findings. Earlier, on January 30, 2012, a Lagos High Court had sentenced Al-Mustapha, Mohammed Abacha and Lateef Shofolahan to death by hanging for conspiracy and murder. However, the Court of Appeal overturned the convictions in 2013, ruling that the evidence presented by the prosecution was weak and unreliable, and ordered their release. With Thursday’s decision, the Supreme Court has finally shut the door on all attempts to revive the case, bringing an end to nearly three decades of legal proceedings surrounding the assassination of Kudirat Abiola.

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