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AYOTIDE 2024 Governorship Campaign Team, working for the emergence of Dr Victor Ayodeji Oritedi as the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the coming primaries in April says it has resumed campaign activities.
This is coming after suspension of all campaign activities due to the death of former late Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State.
This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Akure by Amb. Victor Oritedi.
He said he had used the period to reflect, regroup and plan for the exciting days ahead.
The full statement below! ……..Today marks one month since we suspended our campaign activities out of respect for the passing of our late governor, the esteemed Arakunri Rotimi Akeredolu SAN. During this period, we have collectively mourned his loss and honored his remarkable legacy.
I am thrilled to announce that we are now ready to resume our campaign with renewed vigor and determination.
We have taken this time to reflect, regroup, and plan for the exciting days ahead. Our commitment to our vision for a better future for our state remains unwavering, and we are more determined than ever to bring about positive change and progress.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you for your patience, understanding, and unwavering support during this challenging time. Your dedication to our cause is deeply appreciated, and we are eager to continue this journey with you by our side.
As we embark on this next phase of our campaign, we look forward to engaging with you, sharing our plans, and working together to build a brighter future for our state. Together, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our shared goals.
Thank you once again for your steadfast support. Let’s move forward with optimism and determination as we work towards a better tomorrow for all.
Sincerely,
Dr. Victor Ayodeji Oritedi AYOTIDE 2024 Governorship Campaign Team
Nigerian students have been admonished to desist from all forms of violence or any act that is capable of damaging their image and that of the institution.
The Chairman, of the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Member representing Okitipupa Constituency 1, Ondo State House of Assembly Mr. Chris Ayebusiwa, stated this at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, during the 2nd legislative Summit of the legislative Arm of the Student Union.
He reminded the students that at the end of the day, they would bear the certificate of the institution which is why it is important for them to make sure they defend the university in every way.
While delivering his lecture on the topic titled, “The Roles of Young Parliamentarians in Effective Governance”.
He said effective governance is a product of the right decisions. It is a function of judicious use of resources. It’s also about setting goals and making sure that the goals are achieved for the benefit of the people.
Noting that, “As parliamentarians, you must realize that by the virtue of your position, you are pillars upon which the institution rests, you must realize that your actions or in-actions will go a long way to shape the future of the great University”.
In whatever you say or do, you must make sure the welfare and well-being of the students are always your priority. The well-being of the students and the image of your university must be protected.
Therefore, you must see and utilize the platform as an opportunity for leadership preparation,” Ayebusiwa advised.
He assured them of his full support in any positive way as Chairman, of the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions, not just for the student body but also for the university.
Earlier, the first female speaker of the 6th parliament, Rt. Hon. Priscilla Bolarinwa, in her speech, appealed to Nigerian leaders to give youths the chance to show their leadership competence to the world.
She said It is time for the youths to be part of the decision-making process that either makes them or mar them”.
According to her, the Legislative arm of the government is saddled with the responsibility of making laws. A parliament is an assembly of the representatives of a political nation or people, often the supreme legislative authority.
“The inclusion of young parliamentarians helps in advancing the quality of our governing system, equality and equity will be achieved in a balanced ratio. It is believed that some endless possibilities and opportunities can be realized when all people are equally and fairly represented”
“In Africa’s populous country, Nigeria young people constitute about 70 percent of the population. Despite our large number, we the youth still face the challenge of being excluded from the governance spaces of the country such as the parliament”
“This puts efforts to strengthen democracy in the nation at risk of failure. Since early October 2020, protests and unrest have been witnessed in many parts of the nation. Nigerians particularly young people took to the street to demonstrate against human rights abuse, police brutality, and the status quo on matters of youth development and empowerment”
She, therefore challenged her fellow Nigerian youths to brace themselves for impact.
On the occasion, Mr. Ayebusiwa was presented with an Award of Honour for Excellent Leadership. Also, some parliamentarians were presented with different awards respectively.
The Chairman of Ilaje Leadership Forum, (citizens security council) Chief Wilson Ejeben, has donated project worth seven million Naira to Ilaje Local government area of Ondo state.
The project includes, the reconstruction and beautification of Alape roundabout (Tobacco Junction) Ugbonla/ Araromi road in Ilaje Local Government which was commissioned yesterday by the executive chairman of Ilaje LG, Mr Olamigoke Jatuase.
According to the donor, the project was said to be in honour of His Excellency Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu over his recent intervention that had resolved a long time incessant killings in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government.
During the commissioning, the Local government boss who was represented by his Vice, Mr Dickson Obele, appreciated the Chief Ejeben for giving back to Ilaje.
“I am deeply grateful for all Chief Ejeben has been doing in supporting the people of ilaje. This will be the second roundabout he has constructed in Ilaje LG, which had reduced the usual accident that used to have happened in the area”
“Apart from that, he has been empowering our youths in different aspects, through skill acquisitions training in fashion designing, barbing, makeup artiste just to mention a few”
“To my surprise, Chief Ejeben is never a politician or has an intention for such, but just feel like giving back to the community he had grown and achieved before he travelled out from the country. And he still remembers to come and give back to us. I appreciate him a lot, God will continue to protect him and be with him. “Jatuase prayed.
The council boss, therefore, called on other sons and daughters of Ilaje to sponge from the Chief, by giving back to their community, government can not do everything alone. The chairman emphasised.
Also speaking at the event, the Olu of Igbokoda, His royal majesty, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, applauded the donor, and described him, as a rear gift to Ilaje.
“When I saw the video of the roundabout, I was surprised, and if not that I witnessed the commencement of the project I would doubt it if the roundabout is in Ilaje, it is just like the ones we are seeing at Ikeja Lekki. Am so happy with the project”
“It is not until you are collecting guns from criminals before you are concerned about securing our society, but it is about getting a solution to whatever thing that brings about the insecurity of lives and property. With this project, Chief Ejeben has safe lives and properties. A lot of accidents have occurred here when there was no roundabout.”
While giving him a royal blessing, the monarch noted that Chief Ejeben is never a politician, and still remember his source, he, therefore, advised the Ilaje people to learn from him.
Earlier, the donor, Chief Ejeben appreciated the state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for his effort toward bringing peace back to the ilaje community, also thanked everyone present at the event, and added that it has been his dream to give back to the society that made him who he is today.
“It is my dream to give back to the society that made me who I am today, I grew up in ilaje, and everything I am today was from Ilaje, therefore, after God, I give to Ilaje. I owe ilaje a lot because if not for them I wouldn’t have become who I am today.” Ejeben appreciated.
The chairman Ilaje leadership forum, noted that ilaje has given him a platform to learn as a teenager for free.
He urged the young people in Ilaje even if they are opportuned to be abroad not to forget their source because the government cannot do it alone. “Home is home” Ejeben said.
Chief Wilson Ejeben is a young prominent personality and business mogul in Delta State that has within the shortest time demonstrated the cardinal points of charity which include time, essence, talent and money.
Chief Augustine Ajofure on behalf of the Uhrobo community appreciated the founder for making them proud and a reference point in Ilaje community.
Dignitaries at the events are former LG boss of Ilaje, Mr Victor Ayenuro, former leader of the council, Mr Femi Akinlo, counsellor representing Ugbo ward 4, and Mr Asikomi Olasinbo, Mr Monday Akinyomi, from Mahin, Uhrobo group and security agencies.
The Publisher of Coastal Renaissance news, Comrade Taiwo Ilesanmi Gbamila has congratulated Comrade Niyi Majofodun on his new appointment as Zonal Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Niger Delta Security surveillance (NDSS)
Niger Delta Security Surveillance (NDSS) is a security outfit recognized and engaged by the Federal Government of Nigeria in collaboration with the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) saddled with the responsibility of combating the activities of illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, products adulteration, security of coastal waterways/creeks, refineries/Depots, Vessels/Barges and oil & gas infrastructures.
Comrade Niyi Majofodun who is also the Spokesman, Ondo state ex-militants from Ilaje Local Government was appointed and given a letter of employment by the authority of NDDS.
He was appointed the Zonal PRO of NDSS which covers Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Kwara States.
The MD/CEO of Niger Delta Security and Surveillance (NDSS), Mr Ibifuro Jonah Finuma in a company with other National executives among whom are Mr Ozor-Ejike Chibike, National Secretary; Princess Tina, Zonal Coordinator; Hon. Kelly Erhijakpor, Zonal Chairman; Mr Olofe Oladele Akinola, Western Zonal Chairman and others gave him the appointment letter at the office headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State recently.
The MD charged all the NDSS personnel to be more proactive in discharging their duties by putting an end to illegal activities of the oil bunkers and petroleum adulteration that can lead to economic sabotage of the oil and gas sector in the country.
In his remark, Comrade Niyi Majofodun appreciated the marvellous work of God in his life and also gave God the glory for availing him the privilege and opportunity to lead the Zonal media of the NDSS in the country. He further thanked God for giving him a divine promotion in all his endeavours.
He also appreciated all the leaders who stood by him to attain huge success among whom are Prince Poroye Biyi, Board Director Alpha 3D Company, Ondo State, Hon. Prince Diran Iyantan, Federal Commissioner of National Population Commission (NPC), Ondo State chapter, Barr. Olugbenga Edema, former OSOPADEC Chairman, Ondo State, Chief Job Omotuwa, National Head of Marine Operation of NDSS, Barr. Lawson Akintokun, Legal Adviser of NDSS, South West Zone, Ernest Akinro Olusegun Jones, Ondo State NDSS Supervisor, Hon. Taiwo Ilesanmi Gbamila, Publisher Coastal Renaissance news and other stakeholders.
Majofodun assured the Federal Government of total cooperation of the NDSS in collaboration with other security operatives in bringing the culprits and perpetrators of illegal oil bunkering and petroleum products adulteration to book and subsequently face the wrath of the law.
He finally assured the leadership of NDSS and other stakeholders of his total loyalty and effective service delivery.
The Chairman Akure South Local Government Area, Hon. Gbenga Olaniyi has charged employers of corps’ members at all levels to always prioritize the welfare of the corps in order to achieve optimum performance.
Olaniyi stated this at this year corps’ employers workshop which took place at St. Mathias College, Akure.
Corps’members employers workshop is an annual event that takes place simultaneously across the 36 States of Nigeria and the FCT.
The theme of this year workshop is ” Optimizing The NYSC/CORPS’Employers Partnership For National Development In The Context Of The New Normal”.
The Chairman represented by his chief of staff, Hon. Olaniyi Abiodun stressed that the statutory welfare of the corps’ members which includes accommodation, security and financial benefits should be adequate attention as a way of motivating the corps .
In his own remarks, the Director General NYSC, Brig. Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim represented by Chief. Tunde Fadairo said NYSC was established to foster National Unity, Cooperation and Integration among Nigeria youths with a mandate to train and empower the graduants for economic growth and development through various skills acquisition and community development.
He however admonished employers not to compromise the objectives of the scheme by always reporting any wrong doing of the corps’members.
In their contributions, some of the employers took time to ask numerous questions bothering welfare, security and well being of the corps’ members where answers and possible solutions were proffers by State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs. Victoria Anne.
The Ondo State Police Command has neutralised two suspected kidnappers following a fierce gun battle with operatives at Ilu-Abo along the Akure–Owo Expressway.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement, explaining that the incident occurred after officers attached to the Federal Highway Patrol Unit, Ilu-Abo, responded to a distress call over the activities of suspected armed men at Olaiya Block Industry, located beside Ilu-Abo High School.
According to the statement, about seven masked gunmen stormed the block industry and demanded to see the owner before the police patrol team arrived at the scene.
On sighting the operatives, the suspects allegedly opened fire, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire. During the encounter, two of the suspected kidnappers were fatally shot, while the remaining members of the gang fled into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the scene include a locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, four mobile phones, several face masks, and two ATM cards believed to belong to the suspects or their victims.
The police said the bodies of the deceased suspects have been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, while the case has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
The command added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and appealed to healthcare providers and members of the public to report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds or displaying suspicious movements.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes through intelligence-led policing. He urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to assist security agencies in protecting lives and property across the state.
The Adafin Olusanyero of Owo Kingdom, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, FISN, DCG (Rtd), Commander of the Ondo State Amotekun Corps, has congratulated the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.
In a goodwill message made available to journalists, Adeleye described the Olowo as a rare and remarkable monarch whose reign has been marked by wisdom, dignity, and divine grace.
He noted that the monarch’s exemplary leadership has continued to foster peace, unity, and development in Owo Kingdom, while preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the ancient town.
Adeleye prayed for the continued good health, strength, and long life of the royal father, expressing confidence that his wisdom would continue to guide the kingdom and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
“On this special day, we celebrate a rare and remarkable monarch, a symbol of wisdom, dignity, and divine grace. May your reign be long, your wisdom continue to guide, and your legacy endure for generations,” the message read.
He concluded by wishing the monarch a joyous celebration, declaring: “Long live the King! Long live the Kingdom!”
Ondo State Governor, His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, on his 60th birthday.
In a birthday message Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the monarch has distinguished himself over the years as a royal father of wisdom, integrity, and remarkable foresight, providing purposeful leadership to the people of Owo Kingdom and making invaluable contributions to the peace, unity, and development of Ondo State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged Oba Ogunoye’s wealth of experience as a legal practitioner, accomplished administrator, retired Permanent Secretary, and Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa State, noting that it has continued to enrich his service to humanity.
He said: “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ondo State, I heartily congratulate His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, on the joyous occasion of his 60th birthday.
“This milestone is a celebration of a life devoted to service, leadership, and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage. Over the years, Kabiyesi has distinguished himself as a royal father of wisdom, integrity, and remarkable foresight, providing purposeful leadership to the people of Owo Kingdom and making invaluable contributions to the peace, unity, and development of Ondo State.
“As Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Kabiyesi has continued to foster harmony among our revered monarchs while strengthening the partnership between the traditional institution and government in our collective quest for sustainable development. His wealth of experience as a legal practitioner, accomplished administrator, retired Permanent Secretary, and Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa State has continued to enrich his service to humanity.
“On this special occasion, I join your family, the sons and daughters of Owo Kingdom, friends, and well-wishers in thanking Almighty God for His faithfulness over your life. It is my prayer that He grants Your Imperial Majesty many more years in sound health, renewed strength, divine wisdom, and a peaceful, prosperous, and impactful reign.”
..if God cannot please us completely, who are you to think you can?
Popular relationship and marriage teacher, Pastor Funke Adejumo, has advised married men not to lose themselves in the quest to satisfy their wives, saying no man can completely please a woman.
Speaking during a recent sermon, the founder of Agape Christian Ministries said husbands should avoid placing unnecessary pressure on themselves in an attempt to meet every expectation of their spouses.
“To all married men, don’t ever kill yourself trying to please a woman. I’m a woman speaking to you, and there is nobody who can please a woman to the fullest,” she said.
Explaining her point, Adejumo noted that women naturally desire change and improvement, citing beauty routines as an example.
“God gave us natural nails, we cut them and put on artificial ones. He gave us natural hair, we remove it and wear wigs. If God cannot please us completely, who are you to think you can?” she remarked.
Despite her comments, the cleric encouraged husbands to continue loving, honouring and caring for their wives. She, however, urged them not to become overwhelmed by the unrealistic pursuit of perfection in marriage, stressing that healthy relationships are built on love, understanding and mutual effort rather than the pressure to satisfy every expectation.
…former Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor, Comrade Akin Omojuwa to Lead the Movement
The Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is set to officially launch the Ondo South BTO-Youth Alliance for Asiwaju (BYAA), a strategic grassroots mobilisation platform aimed at strengthening support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, consolidating the ideals of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and advancing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda across the Ondo South Senatorial District.
The announcement was made by the Director-General of the Pan-APC and Pro-Tinubu movement, Comrade Omojuwa Akinfemi Raymond, former Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Niger Delta and Amnesty Affairs who described the initiative as a major step towards deepening youth participation in politics, promoting inclusive leadership, and reinforcing grassroots engagement across the region.
According to Comrade Omojuwa, the Alliance, which is championed by Hon. Tunji-Ojo will serve as a dynamic platform for mobilising young people, professionals, artisans, women, market associations, and community leaders in support of progressive governance and sustainable development.
Speaking ahead of the official inauguration, Omojuwa praised the Interior Minister as a visionary and result-driven leader whose commitment to public service, innovation, and youth empowerment has continued to earn him widespread admiration.
“Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo represents the finest ideals of progressive leadership. Through competence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to national development, he has become a rallying point for young people who believe in purposeful governance. The BTO-Youth Alliance for Asiwaju reflects that vision and our determination to strengthen grassroots support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.
He explained that the Alliance is designed to go beyond political support, describing it as a movement focused on leadership development, civic responsibility, community engagement, and nation-building.
“Our vision is to build the foremost grassroots youth movement that inspires responsible leadership, national unity, and active citizenship,” Omojuwa said. “Our mission is to mobilise, educate, and organise young people across Ondo South into a disciplined, people-oriented platform dedicated to good governance, party cohesion, youth inclusion, and community development, while advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He further disclosed that membership of the Alliance would be open not only to APC members but also to non-partisan youths and patriotic citizens from diverse political backgrounds who share a common desire for the development of Ondo South and Nigeria.
Describing the initiative as an inclusive movement, Omojuwa said the organisation seeks to unite progressive-minded individuals irrespective of previous political affiliations.
“Under the strategic guidance, political foresight, and exceptional grassroots mobilisation capacity of our Proprietor and Principal, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, this movement will consolidate support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while nurturing a new generation of responsible and committed progressive leaders,” he added.
The Director-General reaffirmed that the Alliance would prioritise party unity, issue-based political participation, youth inclusion, and community development, while complementing ongoing efforts to strengthen the APC’s grassroots structures throughout the Ondo South Senatorial District.
He therefore called on youths, women, students, professionals, artisans, market associations, community leaders, and all supporters of progressive politics to identify with the movement and actively participate in its forthcoming inauguration.
According to him, the launch of the Ondo South BTO-Youth Alliance for Asiwaju will mark the beginning of a new phase in grassroots political mobilisation, one that will reinforce support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, strengthen the APC across Ondo South, and further promote the enduring legacy of purposeful and people-centred leadership championed by Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The Federal Government has announced plans to phase out the long-standing policy separating Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) from Senior Secondary Schools (SSS), describing the arrangement as one of the factors responsible for overcrowded junior secondary schools, underutilised senior secondary facilities and rising school dropout rates.
The announcement came as the Federal Ministry of Education inaugurated the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee to fast-track the implementation of Smart Schools, Bilingual Schools and Alternative Schools across the country.
Speaking during the inauguration in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the committee’s success would be judged by the number of schools that become fully operational and actively provide quality education to Nigerian children.
He stressed that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, education remains a top national priority, adding that government interventions must produce measurable results.
According to the minister, the Smart Schools initiative is aimed at equipping learners with digital skills required in today’s technology-driven economy, while the Bilingual Schools programme will promote linguistic inclusion, improve learning outcomes and foster national integration.
He added that the Alternative Schools initiative is designed to expand access to quality education for vulnerable and underserved groups, especially girls and out-of-school children.
Expressing concern over the slow pace of several UBEC-funded projects, Alausa directed the implementation committee to work closely with UBEC, state governments, State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) and other stakeholders to ensure the timely completion of projects, provision of furniture and essential facilities, deployment of teachers and full operationalisation of schools.
On the proposed education reform, the minister disclosed that the Federal Government would present the plan to abolish the JSS-SSS disarticulation policy at the next National Council on Education meeting for consideration.
He noted that the reform is part of broader efforts to expand access to education and improve learning outcomes nationwide.
Also speaking, the Director of Basic Education in the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Folake Davis, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to providing the necessary coordination and support for the successful implementation of the committee’s mandate.
In her remarks, UBEC Executive Secretary, Hajiya Aisha Garba, described the committee as a strategic mechanism for strengthening implementation, accountability and sustainability of basic education projects.
She revealed that 37 Smart Schools have so far been established nationwide, with 24 already operational, while 30 Bilingual Schools are currently being implemented across nine states under the UBEC-Islamic Development Bank partnership.
Garba added that the Alternative Schools Programme continues to provide flexible and inclusive learning opportunities for out-of-school children.
Responding on behalf of the committee, its Chairman, Professor Rashid Adewumi Aderinoye, thanked the Federal Government for the confidence reposed in members and pledged to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, professionalism and transparency.
He assured that the committee would collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure government investments in education translate into sustainable, fully functional schools that deliver improved learning outcomes for every Nigerian child.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has resolved to name the biggest hall at the NUJ Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure, after the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Wisdom Olawande, in recognition of his contributions to the upgrading of facilities at the secretariat.
The resolution was part of a communiqué issued at the end of the union’s monthly congress held on Thursday at the NUJ Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure, and presided over by the State Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite.
The Congress also applauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the Ondo State House of Assembly for the timely enactment of the law incorporating Owena Press, publishers of The Hope newspaper, following sustained advocacy by the NUJ.
It, however, urged the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, and the Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya, to ensure the immediate implementation of the law establishing the Ondo State Government Printing and Publishing Corporation to achieve its intended objectives.
On the federal media sector, the union called on the Federal Government to urgently address manpower shortages in the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and the Voice of Nigeria (VON), stressing that adequate staffing and funding are critical to effective public service broadcasting.
The Congress also commended the national leadership of the NUJ under Comrade Alhassan Yahya for organising a National Security Summit in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), urging the authorities to implement the summit’s recommendations to tackle insecurity.
On infrastructure, the journalists praised the Aiyedatiwa administration for commencing the construction of the flyover on Oba Adesida Road, Akure, while urging the government and the contractor to ensure its completion within schedule.
The union also called for the removal of illegal parking, particularly by commercial tricycle and motorcycle operators, along Arakale Road to ease traffic congestion arising from the ongoing flyover construction.
It further appealed to the state government to expedite ongoing road projects across the state and expressed concern over the slow pace of work on the Akure-Owo-Benin dualisation project, especially along the Akure/Ogbese axis, urging the contractor to improve traffic management and complete one carriageway before commencing work on the other.
The Congress equally decried the increasing rate of road accidents caused by traffic light violations within Akure metropolis and urged the Ministry of Transport and relevant law enforcement agencies to enforce traffic regulations and sanction offenders.
The union also expressed concern over the influx of unidentified persons posing as beggars and mentally unstable individuals in Akure and other parts of the state, describing the development as a potential security threat and calling for heightened surveillance by security agencies.
On environmental sanitation, the Congress lamented the deteriorating waste management system in the state, urging the government to provide additional waste disposal equipment, operational vehicles and recruit more personnel to improve refuse collection.
The journalists also commended the peaceful conduct of the Ondo South Senatorial bye-election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders, congratulating Senator (Prof.) Adedayo Faduyile on his victory and assumption of office.
The resolutions were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Congress.
The Nigeria Police Force categorically disclaims the false and misleading narrative accompanying a viral video circulating on social media which alleges that a uniformed police officer was seen interacting with armed bandits in Katsina State.
For the avoidance of doubt, the individuals featured in the video are not bandits. They are duly recognized members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters who are actively supporting ongoing security operations in collaboration with security agencies in Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State.
The video captured a routine interaction between a police officer and these security volunteers as they proceeded to a designated operational area in support of efforts to combat criminality and enhance public safety. Any claim suggesting otherwise is entirely false, malicious, and intended to mislead the public.
The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the deliberate distortion of facts and the circulation of misinformation capable of causing public anxiety, undermining confidence in security institutions, and frustrating ongoing security operations.
Members of the public are urged to disregard the misleading claims attached to the video and rely only on information disseminated through official channels of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorized government sources.
The Force warns individuals and groups engaged in the creation, publication, or dissemination of false information capable of prejudicing public peace and security to desist immediately, as appropriate legal action may be taken against violators.
The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to working with legitimate community-based security stakeholders and other relevant partners in the collective effort to protect lives, safeguard communities, and combat crime across the country.
CSP ANIETIE OKOKON EDEM INIEDU Force Public Relations Officer Force Headquarters, Abuja 24th June, 2026.
Others face expulsion as principals, school officials queried
The Ondo State Government has withheld the WASSCE results and school testimonials of 17 students involved in a controversial “sign-out” celebration that went viral on social media, while ordering the immediate expulsion of non-final-year students captured in the footage.
The sanctions followed the circulation of a viral video showing students from Oyemekun Grammar School, Aquinas College and CAC Grammar School, Akure, engaging in what government described as unruly and indecent conduct after completing the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The video, widely shared on TikTok, Facebook and other social media platforms, sparked public outrage as it showed students tearing school uniforms and chanting inappropriate slogans during the celebration.
Announcing the disciplinary measures after an emergency meeting with school administrators and education officials in Akure, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology said the affected students would have their official testimonials and examination results withheld until further notice.
The Ministry also directed that the names of the students be entered into the “black book” of their respective schools as part of efforts to strengthen discipline across public secondary schools in the state.
In addition to the sanctions against the students, senior officers of the affected schools have been issued official queries for allegedly failing to provide adequate supervision and allowing the celebrations to degenerate into disorderly conduct.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, said the state government would not tolerate actions capable of undermining discipline and the integrity of the education sector.
According to him, while students are free to celebrate academic milestones, such celebrations must be conducted responsibly and within acceptable standards.
“The growing sign-out culture among secondary school students must be guided by decency. We will not fold our arms and watch the discipline we have painstakingly instilled in our schools be eroded for the sake of social media clout,” he said.
Ajibefun stressed that the government remained committed to protecting the moral values and reputation of schools across the state.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Akindele Ige, urged principals to promptly report potential cases of student unrest to the appropriate authorities before they escalate.
The Commissioner also appealed to parents to guide their children against acts that could jeopardise their future, noting that the sanctions would serve as a deterrent to others.
Parents and students involved in the incident have been summoned to the Ministry to receive official letters conveying the disciplinary actions.
A ray of hope beamed on residents of Abuja satellite towns, Monday, as President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared that the era of neglecting suburbs of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is over under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said the Renewed Hope Agenda is his administration’s sacred covenant with the Nigerian people, recalling that he had promised that governance would no longer be a theoretical exercise confined to the boardrooms of city centres while residents in the periphery thirsted for basic amenities.
Speaking in Kurudu, Abuja, when he officially commissioned the massive Water Supply Network linking Karu, Orozo, Jikwoyi, Kurudu and other adjourning satellite towns, the President, who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, said he “promised a government that listens, a government that plans, and, crucially, a government that delivers.”
The Nigerian leader expressed a deep sense of fulfilment and gratitude to God, noting that the massive Water Supply Network is a fulfilment of that promise.
“We are here not just to cut a ribbon, but to breathe life into a fundamental human right that has eluded this bustling community for far too long. Today, we declare that the era of neglect for our satellite towns is officially over,” he stated.
President Tinubu recalled that just about a year ago, when his administration commissioned the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project, he stood before the nation and gave a clear directive.
“The metropolitan loops must not end in the elite districts. They must stretch. They must expand into our satellite towns, where the heartbeat of Abuja’s working-class population truly resides,” he recalled
He said when the FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, brought the proposal for the Karu Water Supply Project, he did not hesitate, adding that his administration knew that water is life, and that denying people clean water amounts to denying them health, dignity, and economic progress.
To demonstrate the administration’s unwavering commitment, the President said the government did not allow the traditional shackles of bureaucratic delay to obstruct funding, as payments were approved on time and the contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, delivered promptly.
“And today, we are commissioning over 194 kilometres of secondary and tertiary pipeline networks, bringing treated, safe, and potable water directly to the doorsteps of Karu, Orozo, Jikwoyi, Kurudu, and surrounding communities,” he stated.
President Tinubu commended the FCT Minister for delivering, stressing that leadership is not measured by the eloquence of television commentary or the bitterness of empty rhetoric, but by its tangible and verifiable impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, what we are witnessing in the FCT today—across transport, healthcare, education, housing, roads, and now massive water infrastructure—is a testament to what happens when vision meets executive capacity. Thank you, ‘Mr Projects,’ for your leadership,” he said.
The Nigerian leader regretted that for decades, while residents of Karu watched their community grow into a thriving and teeming population, they were left to depend on unsafe boreholes and water vendors.
He added, however, that previous administrations left promises in their wake, even as he said his administration “does not trade in promises” but results.
Charging the people of Karu, Jikwoyi and other surrounding communities on infrastructure maintenance, the President said, “This infrastructure belongs to you. It was built with your commonwealth and designed for your well-being.
“I therefore urge you to safeguard these installations against vandalism and illegal connections. Do not look the other way if unscrupulous elements try to compromise what has taken years of effort and resources to deliver. Treat this water as the precious resource that it is.”
President Tinubu announced that the government was replicating the interventions in Bwari and other Area Councils, even as he assured residents that the government’s commitment to urban renewal and rural integration remains absolute.
Earlier, the FCT Minister, Wike, said the FCT Administration was immensely grateful to the President for the support he has given for the execution of people-oriented projects across the nation’s capital, including the satellite towns.
He said the completion of the water project was part of the presidential directive for the FCT administration to extend the provision of critical infrastructure to the satellite towns across the capital territory.
The Minister also reiterated the commitment of the Tinubu administration through the FCT management, in delivering projects and programmes that will uplift the lives and livelihoods of residents of the territory.
For her part, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Bunkure, thanked the President and the Vice President for his untiring efforts in supporting the work of transforming the infrastructure landscape in the FCT and beyond.
In an overview of the project, the Executive Secretary of FCDA, Engr Richard Yunana Dauda, said the FCT administration had the wellbeing and interest of the residents of Karu and environs at the conception of the water project, which utilised the existing reservior tank in the area, while the distribution facilities conncets over 1,000 distribution lines to service the satellite town and adjourning communities.
He thanked President Tinubu for the support in the completion of the project which, according to him, marks a significant advancement in the provision of potable water to Karu, Jikwoyi, Kurudu and adjourning communities in the area.
Stanley Nkwocha Senior Special Assistant to The Prdent on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President) 22nd June, 2026
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