Fusengbuwa Ruling House Directs KWAM 1 To Submit Royal Lineage Form To Confirm Eligibility For Awujale Throne

The Fusengbuwa ruling house of Ijebu-Ode, next in line to select the new Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State, has instructed popular Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, also known as KWAM 1, to complete the family’s royal lineage data form to confirm his legitimate membership in the ruling house. Abdulateef Owoyemi, chairman of the ruling house and former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, told Sunday PUNCH on Saturday that only bona fide members would be allowed to participate in the Awujale selection process. KWAM 1, in a letter dated December 3, 2025, addressed to the chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House in Agunsebi Quarters, Ijebu-Ode, formally declared his interest in the throne. He described himself as a “bona fide son” of the ruling house, asserting that his candidacy complies with Ijebu customary law and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Laws. The letter went viral on social media, attracting widespread public attention. Owoyemi explained that the Olori Omooba of Ijebu land, like all other aspirants, must first complete the Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form. The form, which requires tracing ancestry up to seven generations, ensures that only legitimate princes can contest, preventing “strangers” from claiming the throne. “The first step for anyone interested in the Awujale throne is to declare their lineage by filling the standard Fusengbuwa ruling house royal lineage data form. Once confirmed as a legitimate member, they can then apply for the expression of interest form,” Owoyemi said. He added: “We have told him, just like all other aspirants, that he must declare his lineage by completing the royal lineage data form, detailing his full name, parents, grandparents, and tracing up to seven generations. The completed form will be signed and submitted to the head of the ruling house unit, who will affirm his bona fide membership before the process can move forward.” Although the official application window closed on December 5, KWAM 1 was granted a five-day extension, expiring on December 10. “We won’t shut anyone out from contesting for the next Awujale, but legitimacy must be established. Every right comes with responsibility, and in a royal family, lineage must be verified through the royal lineage data form. Once received, we will review it carefully and seek clarification if needed,” Owoyemi said, adding that aspirants should be men of influence who will enhance the throne, not merely claim it. The ruling house expects to have a new Awujale by the second or third week of January 2026. Owoyemi outlined the process: the local government has 14 days to select candidates (ending December 18), after which the kingmakers have seven days to deliberate and choose a candidate for submission to the governor. The government then has 21 days for background checks, security clearance, and to address objections before the State Executive Council ratifies the nominee, culminating in the governor’s announcement and coronation rites. “Combining candidate selection, kingmakers’ deliberation, and legal objection periods, we anticipate the next Awujale to emerge between the second and third week of January,” he concluded.

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Speculation Grows As Rivers Governor Fubara Faces Possible Exit From PDP Amid Lawmakers’ Defection To APC

Tension within Rivers State politics has intensified amid growing talks that Governor Siminalayi Fubara could be weighing a possible exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The speculation followed a dramatic shift in the State House of Assembly, where 17 lawmakers aligned with former governor Nyesom Wike announced their defection to the APC on Friday. With only three lawmakers still believed to be loyal to Fubara — and none of them returning to legislative duties since the lifting of the six-month emergency rule — uncertainty now hangs over the governor’s political direction and control of the Assembly. Reacting to the development, a PDP leader and former House of Representatives member, Ogbonna Nwuke, said the political realignments unfolding across the South-South region may eventually draw Fubara into the APC. He pointed to recent defections of PDP governors in Delta, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa states as signs of a wider collapse of the party’s influence in the region. Nwuke explained that instability within the PDP has made defections almost unavoidable. He noted that internal disputes and leadership battles have weakened the party to a level unseen in years. According to him, constitutional provisions on defection also acknowledge that deep divisions at the national level can justify such moves. He further described the PDP’s recent actions, including issuing what he termed an unprecedented “expulsion certificate,” as evidence that the party is in serious trouble. In his words, members are merely reacting to a party that has become deeply fractured. On whether Fubara’s defection is imminent, Nwuke said only the governor can make that decision public, but developments on ground suggest the option is being considered. He added that if Fubara eventually leaves the PDP, he would not be the first to take such a path. However, the Rivers State Government has dismissed the rumours as unfounded. A senior official at Government House, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the governor has given no indication that he plans to defect. The official also questioned the validity of the lawmakers’ defection claims, insisting they have not met the Supreme Court requirement of formally registering their new party membership at their wards. According to the official, until such evidence is produced, the alleged defection should not be taken seriously.

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Obasanjo Claims He Cannot Confirm His Age, Cites Surviving Classmates as Reference

Former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has once again revealed that he does not know his exact age, explaining that estimates can only be made by comparing it with the ages of his surviving former classmates. Speaking on Sunday at the Toyin Falola Interview Series titled “A Conversation with His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo,” the former president noted that several of his primary and secondary school contemporaries are still alive, none younger than 90. The session was moderated by Professor Toyin Falola, with Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Dr. Matthew Kukah and former presidential candidate Professor Kingsley Moghalu also in attendance. Obasanjo took the opportunity to discuss the purpose of his presidential library, describing it as a repository for preserving national records and strengthening institutional memory. He revealed that over three million documents have already been digitized, with an equal number yet to be processed. “The idea is that when these materials are digitalized, people can have access to them. As document preservation, we preserve the past, take note of the present, and aim to inspire the future,” he said. The library contains a wealth of personal and historical records, including his academic files, letters, and manuscripts. Notable items include a letter he wrote to former military ruler General Sani Abacha after the death of his son, a letter to his wife during his imprisonment, and manuscripts of books he authored while in confinement. Despite these detailed records, Obasanjo said he still could not definitively state his age. “I don’t know my exact age, but I could judge from those who were in school with me. For instance, Olubara (Oba Jacob Olufemi Omolade, the Olubara of Ibara) is still alive. I believe there are six of my classmates in secondary school that I know are still alive, and none of them is less than 90 years old. So I leave it to you to guess what my age could be,” he said. He added that his preserved school record cards, manuscripts, and other materials became part of the presidential library, emphasizing the importance of maintaining institutional memory. “One of the things we don’t do well in our society is keeping records. Institutional memory is not something we prioritize,” Obasanjo noted. The presidential library, he explained, is designed not only to preserve history but also to provide future generations with access to important national and personal archives, ensuring lessons from the past can guide the future.

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Kebbi Government Secures N10bn to Add 1,300 Hajj Seats for 2026 Pilgrims

The Kebbi State Government has approved N10 billion to secure 1,300 additional seats for residents taking part in the 2026 Hajj exercise. Alhaji Faruku Aliyu-Yaro, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, disclosed the development on Saturday while briefing journalists in Birnin Kebbi. He said the loan was approved to meet the December 5 deadline set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Aliyu-Yaro praised Governor Nasir Idris for his “decisive, compassionate, and people-centred intervention,” noting that the state risked losing hundreds of Hajj slots if the deadline was missed. “Many intending pilgrims were already in tears, fearing they would miss the exercise. But the governor stepped in at the critical moment. He deserves special prayers from the people of Kebbi State,” he said. The approval of the N10 billion loan not only secured Kebbi State’s full allocation but also created room for additional participants. Consequently, the deadline for intending pilgrims to pay the 2026 Hajj fare of N7,696,769.79 has been extended to December 16. “This ensures that all eligible residents across the 21 local government areas—including Argungu, Yauri, Zuru, and Bagudo—have a fair opportunity to participate. No one willing to perform Hajj will be left behind,” Aliyu-Yaro said. He also noted that preparations for the 2026 Hajj began several months ago, with the agency already processing documentation and other necessary arrangements. “Kebbi started preparations seven to eight months ago, which has helped us maintain a leadership role nationally in Hajj planning and coordination,” he added.

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Ooni of Ife Honors First Lady Oluremi Tinubu With Prestigious Chieftaincy Title

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on Sunday conferred the chieftaincy title of ‘Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile-Oodua’ on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, praising her as a woman of substance who is deeply connected to Yoruba culture and traditions. The title was bestowed during the grand finale of events marking the Ooni’s 10th Coronation Anniversary at Afewonro Park, Enuwa Square, within the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife. Oba Ogunwusi commended the First Lady for her unwavering support over the years. “She is the mother of the nation. Ten years ago, on December 7, 2015, she stood by me through thick and thin. Today, we celebrate her as a merciful mother and a pillar of our community,” the monarch said, noting that the title was conferred in collaboration with traditional rulers across Yorubaland. The Ooni also acknowledged former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his assistance during his early reign and expressed appreciation for Senator Tinubu’s guidance and maternal care during critical moments. In her response, Senator Oluremi Tinubu expressed gratitude to God and described the honour as both humbling and divine. She lauded the Ooni for his visionary and progressive leadership, which has elevated the global recognition of the Yoruba race and brought renewed pride to the Ife Kingdom. “The joy of the nation has come, and we are just beginning to celebrate. God has assured us that 2026 will be a year of joy, honour, and restoration, a year in which everyone will partake in renewed glory,” she said. Former President Obasanjo also praised the First Lady, urging her to continue her humanitarian work while commending the Ooni for recognizing her contributions. Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, described Senator Tinubu as a pillar of national development and highlighted her role in supporting numerous impactful initiatives. He further praised the Ooni for his decade of transformative leadership, noting his efforts in promoting Yoruba culture, fostering unity, and driving community and economic development. “In 10 years, Kabiyesi has redefined leadership, using his exalted stool to promote peace, unity, and progress. His initiatives have strengthened the Yoruba race and raised the global profile of Ile-Ife,” Governor Adeleke said, noting the Ooni’s investments in job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; former First Lady Patience Jonathan; and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Ọba Ghandi Afọlábí, who all joined in celebrating the Ooni’s 10 years of impactful reign.

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We Won’t Allow Newcomers to Destroy PDP, Wike Says as NEC Forms Caretaker Committee

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has affirmed that founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will not allow newcomers from other parties to undermine the party’s legacy. Wike made the statement on Sunday during the 104th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led faction of the PDP, held at his official residence in Abuja. He criticized the Tanimu Turaki-led faction for allegedly disregarding court rulings by holding what he described as an “illegal convention,” emphasizing that respecting judicial processes is essential to restoring public confidence in the party. Wike accused the faction of ignoring two Federal High Court judgments while proceeding with their own convention and later approaching a State High Court for recognition. “You went to a State High Court to sue the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), asking that the convention must take place. You obtained an ex parte order to override Federal High Court judgments. How do you disobey two final rulings and still claim leadership?” he asked. He added that the same group later sought validation from a Federal High Court after failing to comply with lawful rulings. “You had the convention without obeying the court, and now you are back asking a Federal High Court to recognise you. If INEC already recognised you, what exactly are you going to court for?” he questioned. Wike warned that such actions could threaten the party’s future, stressing that leadership requires commitment and honesty, not selfish interests. “We must not allow our party to die. Leadership requires commitment and honesty, not propaganda. If we don’t respect our own laws, how do we earn respect from Nigerians?” he said, calling on party members to support lawful leadership and work together to rebuild the PDP based on democratic principles and judicial integrity. At the meeting, participants urged the NEC to establish a Caretaker Committee ahead of the expiration of the current National Working Committee (NWC) tenure on Tuesday. Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), said the move aligns with the party constitution to ensure continuity, unity, and stability. He added that caretaker leadership is also being implemented in states and zones, including Anambra and the South-East, to address gaps where congresses were not previously held. The NEC subsequently constituted a 13-member National Caretaker Committee, headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed as Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Secretary, to manage party affairs until a national convention is conducted. Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN) was appointed National Legal Adviser, and Umar Bature became National Organising Secretary. Other members of the caretaker committee include Dr Kyari Grema, Janguda Mohammed, Okechukwu Osuana, Senator Nwogu Olaka, Senator Sandy Onor, Prof. Adenike Ogunse, Bisi Kolawole, Deji Doherty, and Dr Ibrahim Aboki. The committee has been given a 60-day mandate to oversee the party, conduct all pending congresses, and organize a national convention. (NAN)

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Trump Raises Concerns Over Netflix’s $72bn Warner Bros Acquisition

US President Donald Trump has expressed concerns over Netflix’s proposed $72bn (£54bn) acquisition of Warner Brothers Discovery’s movie studio and HBO streaming networks, citing potential competition issues due to the combined companies’ market power. At a Washington DC event on Sunday, Trump noted that Netflix already holds a “very big market share,” which would increase significantly if the deal goes through. He said he would personally oversee the approval process, signaling an unusual level of presidential involvement in the merger review. The agreement, announced last Friday, would bring major franchises including Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Looney Tunes, The Matrix, and Lord of the Rings to Netflix, creating a new media giant. The merger is pending regulatory approval and is expected to finalize after Warner Bros splits its business in the second half of 2026. Trump also praised Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, who recently visited the Oval Office, calling him “a great person” who has done “one of the greatest jobs in the history of movies.” Sarandos said the deal positions Netflix for long-term growth, despite surprising some investors. Industry experts have weighed in on potential antitrust concerns. Blair Westlake, a former Universal Studios executive, said the main focus will be on the combination of Netflix and HBO’s streaming business, noting that Netflix’s own studio production and content library are smaller than Warner Brothers’. He predicted the merger would likely be approved, but with possible concessions. Bill Kovacic, a former Federal Trade Commission chair, said Trump’s statements indicate an unprecedented level of presidential oversight over the regulatory process, which is usually handled as a technical review by competition authorities. Netflix won the bidding war for Warner Bros against rivals including Comcast and Paramount Skydance. The Writers Guild of America’s East and West branches have called for the merger to be blocked, warning it could reduce jobs, suppress wages, worsen working conditions, raise consumer prices, and limit content diversity. If approved, the acquisition would be the largest in the film industry in recent years and cement Netflix’s position as the world’s leading subscription streaming service.

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Tinubu Commends Nigerian Military For Foiling Coup Attempt In Benin

President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for their prompt intervention in the Republic of Benin after an attempted military takeover in the neighbouring country. The President’s commendation followed the successful operation by Beninese loyalist forces, backed by Nigerian troops and air support, which led to the recovery of the national television station earlier seized by soldiers who claimed they had overthrown President Patrice Talon. In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, it was revealed that the Beninese government formally sought Nigeria’s military assistance through two separate communications. This came after coup plotters, allegedly led by Col. Pascal Tigri, announced the suspension of democratic institutions. Following the request, Tinubu ordered the deployment of Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to secure Benin’s airspace and support operations to flush out the mutineers from strategic locations, including the national broadcaster and a military camp. Benin also requested the deployment of Nigerian surveillance aircraft and ground troops, “strictly for missions approved by the Beninese Command authority in support of the protection of constitutional institutions and the containment of armed groups.” Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, confirmed that all the requests were fully carried out and that Nigerian troops had already been deployed on the ground. “Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu.” Tinubu, who serves as Chairman of ECOWAS, said the intervention was in line with the regional bloc’s Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. “Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government. Our armed forces acted within the ambit of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. “They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin.” The government of Benin later confirmed that the coup attempt had been neutralised and that full control had been restored.

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