Ogun Awards ₦6.1bn Contract for Court of Appeal Complex in Abeokuta

Ogun Awards ₦6.1bn Contract for Court of Appeal Complex in Abeokuta The Ogun State Government has approved the award of a contract for the construction of a complex to house the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal. The approval was granted at the State Executive Council meeting held today. The contract, valued at ₦6,118,098,154.70, provides for the development of the court complex on a 2.6-hectare parcel of land adjoining the existing State Judiciary Complex in Olipakala Village via Kobape area of Abeokuta, within the Judiciary Cluster along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway. This milestone represents a significant step in the State Government’s sustained efforts to deepen access to justice and bring appellate adjudication closer to the people of Ogun State. A review by the Ministry of Justice showed that a clear majority of appeals currently heard by the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal emanate from Ogun State. The absence of a division within the state has, over the years, increased the financial burden on litigants and legal practitioners and, in some instances, contributed to delays in the resolution of appeals. The State Government has consistently demonstrated readiness for the take-off of the Abeokuta Division. In preparation, six duplexes were constructed on 4,359 square metres of land in Ibara Housing GRA to serve as official residences for justices of the division. In addition, twenty bungalows at the Prince Court Estate, Kobape, have been set aside for support staff. In 2025, the State received approval from the President of the Court of Appeal for the Abeokuta Division to commence operations. This followed the special sitting of the court in Abeokuta in May 2024, during which about ten panels sat in the state and disposed of over 150 appeals within three days. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new Court of Appeal complex will take place in the coming days, while construction is expected to be completed within twelve months. The Ogun State Ministry of Justice remains committed to justice sector reforms that democratise access to justice, strengthen institutions, and ensure efficient delivery of judicial services in the State.

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Iyabo Obasanjo Vows To Win Ogun State Governorship

Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has officially thrown her hat into the race for Ogun State governor, expressing confidence in her ability to win. Speaking on Wednesday during the “Frontline” programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Obasanjo said, “I’m going to win,” signaling her return to active politics after a 15-year break. She recently joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and announced her intention to contest the governorship election. Obasanjo previously served as senator for Ogun Central from 2007 to 2011. She also held the position of Ogun State Commissioner for Health and is a respected epidemiologist. After losing her 2011 re-election to Senator Gbenga Obadara of the then Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), she returned to the United States to focus on academia, eventually attaining the rank of professor. On the radio show, Obasanjo said her campaign is centered on bridging governance gaps and improving the lives of Ogun citizens. “The position I’m going to run for is governor, and I believe it fits the skills I bring to the table. As Ogun citizens, I hope that when I’m governor, I will touch your life either directly or indirectly in a way that will improve your lives,” she stated. She addressed concerns over the call for power to shift to Ogun West, noting that although the region has not produced a governor in 50 years, constitutional law does not mandate power rotation. Highlighting the distribution of past governors, she said, “We’ve had three from Ogun East and two from Ogun Central. So, is Central to blame for West? Personally, I assisted late General Olurin during his PDP candidacy, but it did not work.” On gender politics, Obasanjo said she will not leverage her gender in the campaign, but pledged to support the rise of an Ogun West governor after her term. “Yes, after me, because I’m going to win,” she affirmed. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, she cited limited campaign time and resources as obstacles, but expressed confidence in voters’ judgment. “Time is a disadvantage because I came in a little late. I don’t think money makes elections. I believe that people are good people, and they know who will do right by them,” she said. Obasanjo also addressed her chances of securing the APC ticket against other prominent party members, saying, “Everybody is politicking. There is no reason why I shouldn’t be out there politicking with them if I want the post. Is it 100%? It’s not 100% for anybody, and it’s not 100% for me. But I will do everything I can to make sure I’m the candidate.”

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Lagos Transfers Mirabel’s Sexual Assault Case to Ogun State Authorities

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has confirmed that the sexual assault case involving TikTok user Mirabel (@mirab351) has been handed over to authorities in Ogun State. Mirabel had claimed she was raped in her apartment by a stranger. In a statement on Wednesday, the agency said it had successfully contacted a close friend of the survivor, who confirmed she had been discharged from the hospital. The case drew widespread attention online, trending under the hashtag #StopRapingWomen on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands calling for swift action against sexual assault and stronger protections for survivors. “Following our earlier statement and the overwhelming public response, we established contact with a close friend of the survivor who confirmed she has been discharged from the hospital. We appreciate members of the public who shared helpful information via direct messages and tagged the Agency to ensure prompt intervention,” the DSVA said. The alleged assault reportedly occurred on Sunday, February 15, with Mirabel sharing the incident publicly the following day. The agency clarified that the event happened in Ogun State, placing it outside the Lagos State DSVA’s jurisdiction. “All relevant information has been forwarded to the appropriate authorities in Ogun State to ensure proper handling in the spirit of interagency collaboration and survivor protection,” the statement read. The DSVA expressed confidence that the Ogun State Police Command is investigating the matter and that Mirabel will cooperate fully to allow a thorough probe. “We trust that the survivor will fully engage with the authorities to ensure a comprehensive investigation and due process,” the agency added, reaffirming its commitment to supporting survivors and maintaining accessible channels for reporting sexual violence.

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Video Shows Destiny Boy Laid To Rest At Family Home, Sparks Reactions Online

A video from the funeral of Nigerian singer Azeez Adeshina, famously known as Destiny Boy, has surfaced online, drawing heartfelt reactions from fans and social media users. The footage shows the late singer’s body being brought to his family home in Ogun State to begin funeral rites. A white hearse, its siren blaring, is seen entering the Odo Rori compound in Ayetoro, Yewa, carrying Destiny Boy for burial at his father’s residence. His death earlier this week had already sparked debates online, with some reports mentioning police involvement in the circumstances surrounding his passing. Despite the controversies, the family went ahead with the burial on Friday, January 23. The video prompted many online users to express surprise and concern over the burial location, questioning why Destiny Boy was laid to rest at home instead of a public cemetery. I didn’t really know this young, handsome boy but I’ve been seeing his story everywhere since last week. The body of Destiny Boy has now arrived at his father’s compound for burial. May his soul rest in perfect peace and may God comfort his pregnant wife and his little son🥰🙏 pic.twitter.com/Odet41T674 — Big Love (@bigHotbaby1) January 23, 2026

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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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Ogun Suspends Awujale Selection Again Amid Security Concerns

The Ogun State government has once again put the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebu land on hold. Our correspondent in Ijebu Ode reports that security at the Awujale palace was heightened on Wednesday, with police and officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps deployed to the area. The Awujale throne became vacant in July 2025 following the death of 91-year-old Oba Sikiru Adetona, who ruled for 65 years. In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, the government said the decision to suspend the process was due to numerous petitions from security agencies and other key stakeholders. The statement partly read: “The Awujale stool is one of the foremost and most prestigious chieftaincy titles in Yoruba land and Ogun State. The stature of the late Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for sixty-five years, significantly enhanced the modern esteem of the stool. “The focus and scrutiny on the next Awujale are therefore considerable. The State Government has received multiple petitions, reports from security agencies, and inputs from stakeholders regarding the ongoing selection process. “To preserve public order, protect the integrity of the process, and maintain the respect due the stool, it has become necessary to halt the selection at this time. “This decision is made in line with the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empowers the government to set aside an appointment in the interest of peace, order, and good governance. “The Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House are to be notified immediately and advised to await further directives regarding the selection process.” This marks the second suspension of the Awujale selection process. The first was in December 2025, when the government halted it citing procedural errors.

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Portable Arraigned, Remanded Over Assault, Theft Charges In Ogun

Nigerian singer Portable has been arraigned and remanded at a federal high court in Ota, Ogun State, over multiple criminal charges. He appeared in court on Monday facing a nine-count charge that includes assault, theft, resisting arrest, and causing harm. The allegations relate to an incident on New Year’s Day at his Odogwu Bar in Iyana Ilogbo, where prosecutors claim he attacked his estranged partner, Ashabi Simple, several police officers, and other individuals. The police also allege that Portable stole a Mercedes‑Benz E300 worth around N12 million, registered to Ileyemi Damilola. Two of Ashabi Simple’s siblings testified in court, though she was absent. In addition, the singer is accused of obstructing and assaulting W/Inspector Ogungbe Olayemi while she was performing her official duties. Portable’s bail request was denied because the police officer allegedly assaulted was not present to testify. He has been remanded in custody and will return to court on January 19 for another bail hearing.

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Ogun Police Confirm Anthony Joshua Safe and Sound After SUV Crash

Nigerian-born British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua is safe after surviving an SUV crash in Sagamu, Ogun State, on Monday. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Bassey, Joshua, who was seated in the rear of the Lexus SUV, suffered only minor injuries and received first aid at the scene. The accident occurred around 11:00 a.m. in Makun, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, near Danco Filling Station and the Sagamu Interchange on the Ibadan-bound side. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Tragically, two other passengers in the vehicle died at the scene. Their bodies were taken to Livewell Hospital Morgue in Sagamu. The Ogun State Police Command extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that a thorough investigation is ongoing. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

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