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– PDP’s petition, others unanimously dismissed for lack of merit
– Gov invites opposition to join hands with him to move Ondo State forward
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described as a welcome development the judgement of the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal which affirmed his election as Governor on Wednesday.
The tribunal while dismissing the petitions filed by some parties, upheld the election of Governor Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), affirming his victory in the November 16, 2024 governorship poll.
The three-member tribunal, chaired by Justice Benson Ogbu, delivered a unanimous judgment, dismissing the petitions filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Agboola Ajayi, and other political parties. The tribunal held that the allegations of widespread irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act were not substantiated.
Speaking to journalists after the verdict, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to God and the people of Ondo State, adding that the tribunal’s judgment has reaffirmed the will of the people.
“I give thanks to Almighty God who orchestrated this journey from the beginning and used the good people of Ondo State. Over 366,000 residents gave us their mandate on November 16 last year to continue governing this state as the seventh democratically elected governor.
“That mandate has now been validated by the tribunal. While some political parties tried to overturn the people’s decision through the backdoor, the judiciary has fulfilled its role by upholding the choice made by the majority of voters across the 18 local government areas of the state,” he said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also appreciated his deputy, party members, and the APC leadership for their support.
When asked if he would extend a hand of fellowship to the opposition, the Governor said his doors have always been open.
“From the very day I was declared winner, I called on the opposition to join us in developing Ondo State. If they truly have the interest of the state at heart, they are welcome to bring their ideas forward so we can work together for the progress of our dear state,” he said.
The Governor later led a crowd of supporters on a jubilation rally from the State High Court, venue of the tribunal’s sitting, to his campaign secretariat along Oyemekun road in Akure.
Says no project will be abandoned under his administration
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s resolve to complete all inherited infrastructure projects across the state, declaring that neither the popular Ijoka Road nor the Onyearugbulem/Shagari Flyover in Akure will be abandoned.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made this known while commissioning the newly completed Oda Road in Akure South Local Government Area, describing the event as a major milestone in his administration’s commitment to impactful development.
The Governor acknowledged the efforts of his predecessor, late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, who initiated and flagged off the dualisation of the road.
“This project is a testament to meticulous planning, dedication, and the collective will of our administration to deliver on promises made to the people. When I assumed office as the seventh democratically elected governor on February 24, 2025, I pledged to prioritize infrastructural development and enhance the welfare of our people. Today’s commissioning is a fulfillment of that pledge,” the Governor said.
The Governor emphasized that his government will not abandon projects started by his predecessors, stressing that both the Ijoka Road and Onyearugbulem/Shagari Bridge will be completed despite public concerns.
“I want to tell the good people of Ondo State that those roads will be completed. There might be delays because they are inherited projects, and we had to first verify the financial commitments, review contractor engagements, and ensure prudence in spending. But we are moving forward,” he stated.
He disclosed that the Oda Road project, though inherited, was completed after a rigorous auditing process with the contractor, Dortnud Construction Company, which he commended for its understanding and cooperation.
According to the governor, the road project aligns with the 2025 Budget of Recovery, which allocates a huge percentage of the state’s budget to capital expenditure. He added that this approach is designed to unlock the economic potential of communities through improved infrastructure.
Highlighting the economic and social benefits of the Oda Road, Aiyedatiwa noted that the completed road had already eased traffic congestion, improved access to public institutions, and boosted the value of real estate and small businesses in the area.
He urged residents to take ownership of the project, stressing the importance of proper maintenance and discouraging practices that damage public infrastructure, such as burning tires on asphalt roads or improper disposal of waste.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s broader development agenda, promising that more life-changing projects will be executed across the state in the months ahead.
In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, Engr. Olawoye Abiola, described the occasion as a strong testament to the State Government’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development across all 18 local government areas of the state.
Engr. Abiola emphasized that the Oda Road project, which spans a total length of 7.8 kilometers, is a vivid example of the government’s resolve to transform critical infrastructure and ease the movement of people and goods within the state.
He explained that the project consists of two sections: a dual carriageway stretching 4 kilometers, which has been fully completed, and a single carriageway covering 3.8 kilometers, which is also now ready for public use.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, noted that the road serves as a critical access route to several essential facilities within the area. According to him, the road passes through a number of schools, healthcare centers, residential communities, and commercial areas, making it a vital corridor for both social and economic activities.
Hon. Fasua commended the state government for prioritizing infrastructure that directly impacts the lives of the people and expressed optimism that the project would contribute to the socio-economic growth of the local government.
Also, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi Odundun II, the Deji of Akure, expressed profound appreciation to the Ondo State Governor on behalf of the people of Akure Kingdom.
He commended the governor for the successful completion of the Oda Road project, describing it as a landmark achievement that reflects the administration’s responsiveness to the needs of the people.
Meanwhile, Hon. Oguntodu Olajide Johnson, a member of the Ondo State House of Assembly representing Akure South Constituency 1, lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for fulfilling his promise to complete the road.
Those in attendance at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, the Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, well as members of the Ondo State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, top government functionaries, and other dignitaries.
Nigerian boxing legend and a National Coach with the Nigeria Boxing Federation, Adura Olalehin, has visited Kano State on a condolence visit to the state government and families of the victims that killed 22 members of the state contingent returning after the National Sports Festival.
Olalehin at the office of the Deputy Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo, commiserated with the people of Kano State over the incident, saying, “This is not a good time for the state of Kano. I believe by the grace of God will not allow such a thing to happen again,”.
He said the whole Nigerian Boxing Federation under General Minima were saddened by the incident and the impact of the accident on the hugely successful outing (Festival) in Ogun State.
Olalehin also visited the families of the deceased and injured contingents and donated to each family with cash support of ₦200,000, shared in their grief and prayed that the family have the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
”These are trying times for everyone in Kano and Nigeria at large, but what can we do? God giveth, and He taketh; we prayed that Allah be with you in these trying times,” he said.
Sponsored
Deputy Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo, appreciated the delegation for the visit and prayed that God grant them a safe journey to their respective states. In Adura’s delegation are; Head Coach, Ondo State Boxing Association, Moses Osifor, his counterpart, Coach Alice from Nasaarawa and Coach Olopade From Abuja.
Prince Emorioloye Owolemi, a community leader and political analyst in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, has congratulated Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on the occasion of his 100 days in office.
In a personally signed statement, he described Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership as a testament to his vision and commitment to purposeful governance.
“As we commemorate the 100-day milestone of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration, it is imperative to acknowledge the strategic decisions and impactful initiatives that have set Ondo State on a path of sustainable development.”
One of the most commendable decisions was the deliberate delay in constituting a full cabinet. This choice was not born out of indecision but a calculated move to conserve resources and redirect funds towards critical sectors that directly affect the lives of our citizens.
The cost of maintaining a full cabinet — salaries, allowances, logistics — could have easily drained funds needed for development. Instead, Governor Aiyedatiwa chose to channel those resources where they were needed most: into the lives of the people.
Infrastructure Development:
Road Rehabilitation: The administration has initiated the construction and rehabilitation of over 60 kilometers of roads across the state, including the Oda Road dualization, Ijoka Road, and the Irese/Shagari Flyover in Akure.
Rural Connectivity: In a bid to boost agricultural activities and ease the transportation of farm produce, rural roads in Oda-Cocoa Board-Langbodo (Akure South), Ode-Omi-Ebute Iyara (Irele LGA), and Ifira Akoko-Afo (Akoko South East) are under construction.
Education Advancement:
Teacher Recruitment: The government has approved the recruitment of 2,000 teachers to address the shortage in public schools.
WAEC Fees Payment: To alleviate the financial burden on parents, N550 million has been released for the payment of 2024 WAEC fees for students in public secondary schools.
Infrastructure in Tertiary Institutions: N1 billion has been approved for the construction of a new Senate Building at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, and N1.2 billion for the completion of abandoned projects at the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa.
Healthcare Improvements:
Primary Healthcare: The administration has recruited health workers for primary healthcare centers across all 203 wards in the state.
Healthcare Schemes: The launch of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) ensures affordable healthcare access for residents.
Economic Empowerment:
Support for Artisans and Traders: Soft loans totaling N220 million have been disbursed to artisans and MSMEs to stimulate economic activities.
Entrepreneurship Promotion: The state hosted the Global Entrepreneurship Festival, attracting over 25,000 participants, positioning Ondo as a hub for innovation and business growth.
Social Welfare:
Wage Awards: Public servants receive a monthly N35,000 wage award, while pensioners get N10,000, cushioning the effects of economic hardship.
Gratuity Payments: Over N1.5 billion has been disbursed for the payment of gratuities in the last three months.
Security Enhancements:
Support for Security Agencies: The government has provided 25 Toyota Hilux vehicles to security agencies, bolstering their operational capacity.
Environmental Initiatives:
Cleanliness Drive: The “Operation Keep Ondo Clean” initiative has significantly improved waste management in the state, restoring Akure’s status as one of Nigeria’s cleanest capitals.
These achievements underscore Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to prudent resource management and people-centric governance. By prioritizing essential projects over political appointments, he has laid a solid foundation for sustainable development.
As we look forward to the future, it is evident that Ondo State is in capable hands, steering towards a trajectory of growth and prosperity.”
– Prince Emorioloye Owolemi Community Leader & Political Analyst 31/05/2025
In a well-attended ceremony held at the prestigious Dejavu Hotel in Alagbaka, Akure, Hon. Princess Olawumi Fayemi-Obayelu, a prominent member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, representing Ilaje Constituency II has been conferred with the Sunshine Icon Award 2025.
She was specially recognized as the Sunshine Female Lawmaker of the Year 2025, a title that celebrates her remarkable contributions to legislative excellence, good governance, and public welfare in Ondo State.
The award, organized to honour trailblazers across various sectors, commends Hon. Fayemi’s unwavering dedication to public service, her influential role in policy formulation, and her advocacy for gender inclusion and grassroots development.
In her acceptance speech, Hon. Fayemi-Obayelu expressed gratitude to the organizers and reaffirmed her commitment to championing the causes that matter most to her constituents. “This recognition strengthens my resolve to continue serving with integrity, compassion, and purpose. I dedicate this award to the resilient people of Ondo State, especially the women and youth who inspire me daily,” she said.
The Sunshine Icon Award serves as a testament to Hon. Fayemi-Obayelu’s enduring impact, leadership, and tireless pursuit of sustainable development in the state.
Four men were killed and five others injured in a fight between rival cult groups in Ondo town, Ondo State, on Tuesday evening.
Reports say the victims were shot by masked men in areas like Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in the Oka area of the town. The attackers are believed to be members of a rival cult group.
An eyewitness said that three members of the Ẹiyẹ cult were killed at Ife Garage, while another was shot dead in front of a local shop called “Mama Shop” in Sabo.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident. He said the men killed were known cult members who were already wanted by the police.
Mr. Ayanlade said, “We can confirm that four people were killed and five were injured. All of them were members of cult groups. We urge the public to stay calm. Police and other security forces are working to keep everyone safe.”
He also spoke about a police raid that happened on Wednesday morning at New Garage in the Ayeyemi area of Ondo. He said, “These are serious times, and we must take serious actions. Everyone arrested has some connection to the clash. If any officer does something wrong, they will be punished. But if they do the right thing, they should be praised.”
According to report, police broke into several houses during the raid and arrested suspected cult members. Arrests were still ongoing as of the time this report was written.
Police are now patrolling the affected areas, especially New Garage, which is believed to be a base for one of the cult groups. Some people have been arrested, but the exact number is not yet known.
Mr. Ayanlade also said the police are working hard to catch those responsible for the killings.
The Ondo State Police Command has denied claims made by Mr. Eniola Ojajuni, the National Youth Leader of the Afenifere group. Ojajuni had accused four traditional rulers in Akoko of working with kidnappers and said the police never questioned him after he was reportedly released from captivity.
On Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, said Ojajuni’s story was “serious but misleading.” He explained that police investigations found no real proof that Ojajuni was ever kidnapped.
“Mr. Ojajuni was not kidnapped or released by any known kidnappers in Ondo State,” the police said. “Still, we worked hard with other security agencies to make sure he returned safely, even though his story didn’t add up.”
The police also said that Ojajuni’s wife and brothers gave statements that didn’t match his version of events. They claimed Ojajuni ignored several invitations to come in and explain what happened, which made it harder to investigate.
They referred to a video shared online during the alleged kidnapping. According to the police, the video didn’t look like something real kidnappers would make. “Kidnappers usually don’t have smartphones or post videos of their victims,” they noted.
The police warned people not to spread false stories and reminded the public that real investigations don’t happen on social media. “We must follow the law,” Olushola said. He added that anyone who spreads false information or blocks investigations would be punished, no matter who they are.
The police also asked the people of Ondo State to work with security agencies and promised to keep doing their best to protect lives and maintain peace.
Ojajuni Fires Back
In response, Prince Eniola Ojajuni denied the police’s version. He said he was never invited for questioning by the police — not in person, not in writing, and not through anyone else.
“I challenge them to show proof that they invited me,” he said in a statement on Tuesday evening. “I’ve never received any message or letter from them.”
Ojajuni said he was rescued by Ondo State Forest Guards while his wife and brother were present. He added that another victim, a man from Jos, was released at the same time after ransom money was paid into his wife’s account and sent to the kidnappers.
He also said his wife reported the case to the Ijede Police Station in Lagos, and Pastor Omoleyin and Mr. Dele followed up with the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Ondo State. He mentioned that the DSS (Department of State Services) was also informed.
Ojajuni accused the police of trying to twist the truth and mislead the public. He described their statement as “irresponsible and worrying.”
He called on the Inspector-General of Police to step in and make sure the case is handled with honesty and fairness.
“I will keep speaking up for the safety of our people and make sure justice is done,” he said.
A sports journalist in Ondo State, Mr. Femi Atolagbe, has taken legal action against a football coach, Kayode Julius, over allegations of defamation of character.
Mr. Atolagbe is suing Coach Julius following a damaging message allegedly posted by the latter on a WhatsApp group platform known as Ondostatefootballstakeholders.
The post, made with mobile number +2349126428876, claimed that the journalist had impregnated a female football player.
According to the post, Julius further attacked Atolagbe’s professional integrity, stating: “You are a quack journalist and you are responsible for the relegation of Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens because of drinking habit, womanizing, giving wrong advice, planting hatred in other people, and poisoning the mind of the management against others.”
Reacting through his counsel, Mr. Atolagbe said the defamatory publication was made in a group with over 1,000 members, causing significant damage to his reputation and personal life.
“The above publication represents our client as an irresponsible person, an unqualified journalist among his colleagues, and has cast doubts in the mind of his loving wife, who now suspects her husband of infidelity.
” It has also damaged his public image,” the lawyer stated.
The counsel noted that the post has exposed Atolagbe to unwarranted ridicule and has caused both social and economic losses, threatening his career and family life.
In a formal demand letter, Atolagbe’s legal team has asked Coach Julius to issue a letter of apology to their client, publish the same in The Hope Newspaper, and sponsor a paid retraction jingle on Adaba FM to air during prime time for one week.
They are also demanding a compensation sum of ten million naira (₦10,000,000.00) within seven days of receiving the letter, warning that failure to meet these demands would result in legal proceedings.
“We do hope you will respond and accede to our request within time in your mutual interest to avoid costly litigation,” the letter concluded.
The letter was signed by Femi Atolagbe’s counsel, Kariaikitei Kokowei Esq.
Ondo State House of Assembly member, Hon. Fayemi Olawumi-Obayelu, has celebrated her husband, Mr. Michael Adesola Obayelu, on the occasion of his 55th birthday.
In a heartfelt message shared on Monday, Hon. Olawumi-Obayelu expressed deep admiration and love for her husband, describing him as her “heart’s home” and lifelong companion.
“Today, as you turn 55, I want to take a moment to celebrate not just the years you’ve lived, but the journey we’ve shared. Through the years, my love for you has only grown stronger,” she said.
She further expressed gratitude for the bond they share, noting, “I’m so proud of the man you have become and forever grateful to call you mine. Here’s to more laughter, more understanding, more love, and growing old together.”
Hon. Olawumi-Obayelu concluded the tribute with a warm birthday wish: “May this year bring us new possibilities and a deeper connection. Happy 55th Birthday, Mi Amor. I love you endlessly.”
A major disaster was narrowly averted in Ore this afternoon thanks to the swift and professional response of the Ondo State Fire Service following a petroleum tanker accident.
The fully loaded PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) tanker reportedly lost control while attempting to navigate the Ore flyover, toppling and spilling its flammable contents. The incident posed an immediate threat to nearby residents, motorists, and businesses in the busy commercial hub.
Firefighters arrived at the scene around 2:15 p.m., quickly initiating cooling operations to prevent any possible ignition or explosion. Their timely action, according to eyewitnesses, helped to secure the area and calm rising panic among bystanders.
As of the time of this report, the fire service team remains on-site, implementing strategic safety protocols to fully neutralize the risk.
The quick intervention by the fire service has been widely praised, with many residents commending the professionalism and efficiency of the emergency response.
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