The Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 3rd Adu Unity Football Competition, Raymond Abdulsalam, has assured participating teams of fair and impartial officiating throughout the tournament.
Abdulsalam made the assurance in an interview with journalists in Akure, stating that the competition will be conducted under the strict supervision of the Ondo State Football Association (FA).
He revealed that 20 teams from across the 18 local government areas of the state will take part in the event, which is designed to discover and promote hidden football talents at the grassroots level.
“Football is the best tool to unify the youth and break barriers,” Abdulsalam said. “Any outstanding player discovered during the competition will be monitored and nurtured to stardom.”
He further reiterated that all teams would receive equal treatment in terms of officiating, stressing the committee’s commitment to transparency and fairness.
“The LOC will ensure that all participating teams are treated equally in the area of officiating,” he emphasised.
Abdulsalam also announced that the LOC will hold a meeting with all participating teams on the 15th of this month at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, to finalise the modalities for the competition.
Ayo Ademusire Foundation on yesterday hosted a back-to-school program tagged: EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT INITIATIVE PROGRAM at Oke Oluwatedo Community Primary School, Oke Oluwatedo, Akure, where pupils were given school bags, customized notebooks, and writing materials. This initiative aligns with the Foundation’s mission of supporting and uplifting vulnerable communities, particularly children by having adequate access to education.
Prince Ayodeji Ademusire, CEO of Ayo Ademusire Foundation speaking through his Personal Assistant, Mr. Oluwafemi Ajibuwa, said, “It is truly an honor to be here today at OKE OLUWATEDO SCHOOL, LIGHT AND LIFE, AKURE, ONDO STATE, and I bring you warm greetings from all of us at AYO ADEMUSIRE FOUNDATION. I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Headteacher, teachers and of course, our bright and promising learners who are gathered here.”
“I welcome you all to this special event an important part of our education support initiative, aimed at building brighter futures by empowering young minds through education. We strongly believe that every child, regardless of background, deserves access to the tools that make learning enjoyable, effective and meaningful.”
Speaking in the importance of education within the society, Ademusire said, “Education, as we all know, is the foundation of any great society. It is the light that drives away ignorance, the key that unlocks potential, and the bridge that leads to a better future. That is why we have come here today to support this great school and its learners with educational materials that can make a difference in their academic journey.”
“That is why we are here today to support this great school by donating notebooks, school bags, pens, pencils, waste bins, and brooms. We hope these materials will make learning easier and encourage both learners and teachers to keep working hard and to promote not only learning but also cleanliness and discipline within the school environment.”
“We understand that education is not the work of one person or one group, it is a shared responsibility. We deeply appreciate the teachers and school administrators who give their time, energy and hearts to shaping the next generation, your dedication inspires us.”
“To our dear learners we want you to know that you are the reason we are here. You are the stars we want to see shine brightly. Use these materials well, stay focused, work hard and remember that you can be anything you want to be if you believe in yourself and stay committed to your education. The world is waiting for your greatness.”
“In conclusion, I want to thank everyone who made this program possible, our volunteers, organization executives and members. Together, we are not just giving materials, we are giving hope, confidence and a future.” He concluded
Mrs, Lawal Funmilola, Head Teacher of the school, in her remarks appreciate Prince Ayodeji Ademusire through Ayo Ademusire Foundation for his kind gestures towards the pupils, describing the initiative as a one which will elevate the pupils who are mostly less privileged.
Adesewa, Senior Prefect Girl, who spoke on behalf of the pupils, appreciate the Foundation for providing them with writing materials at such a time the materials are needed. He prays the Foundation continues to wax stronger.
Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye, has assured the management of the state Sports Council that the old glory of sports in Ondo State will be restored.
He explained that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa cannot be everywhere to know what is happening in all sectors of the state, which is why he was appointed as the SSA on Sports.
He added that it is important to have someone who will be giving the Governor on-the-spot reports of events, especially in the Sports Council.
The former Coordinator of Rising Stars stated this at a meeting held with the management and sectional heads of the council in Akure, the state capital.
He urged the sectional heads to put their challenges in writing, promising to liaise with other stakeholders to brief the Governor.
“Our Governor is a sports-loving leader, and I am very sure that when I bring your requests to him, he will attend to them positively. We need someone who will be presenting your matters to the Governor, because it is not possible for him to be everywhere.
” I can assure you that sports in our state will improve under the current administration,” he said.
“We need action more than talk, and I will do all I can, in conjunction with other stakeholders, to discuss with Mr Governor the need to host our medalists from national events,” he added.
Responding, the General Manager of the Sports Council, Mr. Sunday Fagite, thanked the SSA for deeming it fit to visit the council.
He added that the SSA is a sports enthusiast who understands the language of the sector, and urged him to assist the council in presenting their issues to the Governor.
Sectional heads at the meeting promised to work harder for the development of sports in the state.
“They assured the SSA of their maximum support and said their requests would be submitted as directed.
They informed the SSA that the council needs more coaches to replace those who have retired and requested that the honorary coaches in the council be absorbed into the system.
“Apart from our requests, government needs to do something about athletes’ remuneration.
“Many of our athletes have been poached by other states because of unattractive welfare packages,” they noted.
The Ekimogun Roundtable has uncovered a desperate plot by a serving political office holder in Ondo to undermine its ongoing Accountability and Transparency Project aimed at tracing and exposing the management of over ₦6 billion worth of constituency projects allocated to ondo city.
In a statement signed by its acting secretary Ms Christiana Ayodele and released to pressmen in Akure on Tuesday, the group says its findings reveal that the politician has mobilized his loyalists and instructed them to organize protests to the palace of the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom as well as the residences of notable chiefs in Ondo City, in a bid to blackmail and discredit its efforts.
Ekimogun Roundtable wishes to state unequivocally that no amount of intimidation, propaganda, or manipulation will stop this accountability drive. We remain firmly committed to ensuring that every kobo meant for the development of Ondo city is accounted for and redirected to benefit the people.
Among the projects under scrutiny are:
463million naira Ondo City Library project
₦85 million Yaba Youth and Women Empowerment Fund
Over ₦250 million Flood Control Project Fund
Hundreds of millions earmarked for Streetlights and Instructional Materials, among others.
The people of Ondo deserve full transparency and accountability. These constituency projects were not designed to enrich individuals but to uplift communities, empower youth and women, and improve public infrastructure.
We call on security agencies, traditional rulers, and all well-meaning citizens to disregard any attempts at blackmail and instead stand firm with us in demanding accountability and good governance.
Ekimogun Roundtable will not relent until the truth is unearthed, the whereabouts of these funds are uncovered, and the resources are redirected back to the people where they rightfully belong.
The Federal High Court, Abuja, presided over by Hon. Justice Obiora A. Egwuatu, has assumed jurisdiction in the matter between the Registered Trustees of the Ekimogun Roundtable and the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) over the controversial N85 million Yaba Youth and Women Empowerment Project.
The suit, filed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1788/2024, challenges the processes adopted by the BCDA in the award and execution of the empowerment scheme, citing alleged violations of the Public Procurement Act 2007.
The Ekimogun Roundtable, a socio-economic group of Ondo indigenes at home and in the Diaspora, argues that the agency failed to comply with Section 18(a) of the Act, which mandates a thorough needs assessment and evaluation before implementing public projects. The group further contends that Section 16(1d) of the law, which emphasizes transparency, accountability, and fairness in public procurement, was also breached.
Represented by Elvis Ejeta, Esq., and a team of eight other lawyers, the Roundtable maintains that empowerment programs meant for the youth and women of Yaba in Ondo West Local Government Area must reflect the real needs and aspirations of the beneficiaries rather than arbitrary items imposed by the implementing agency and or outright disappearance.
The matter has been adjourned to November 19th, 2025, for final adoption of addresses, after which a date will be fixed for judgment.
Speaking after the proceedings, representatives of the Ekimogun Roundtable reaffirmed the group’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and meaningful community engagement in the use of public resources.
“This case is not just about compliance with the law but about protecting the economic future of Yaba youth and women. Empowerment must be rooted in their actual needs and aspirations to deliver lasting impact,” the group stated.
The Ekimogun Roundtable remains optimistic that justice will prevail and that this case will set a precedent for responsible governance and proper utilization of empowerment funds across Nigeria and charged lawmakers to desist from manipulating/shortchanging their constituents under the guise of empowerment schemes.
A 27-year-old carpenter, identified as Toheeb Ahmed, has allegedly hacked his grandmother to death in Ore, the headquarters of Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Aiyegbami Street, threw the entire community into confusion and fear.
According to eyewitnesses, the suspect was apprehended early Tuesday morning after his suspicious movements around the victim’s residence.
One resident, who narrated the incident, said:
“He has been coming to the house since last Thursday at midnight. This morning, he came to my shop to buy something and said, ‘Mama is dead.’ I felt sorry at first, but when he told me not to inform anyone, I became suspicious.
“Out of curiosity, I went to Mama’s room while he was away and discovered she had been hacked to death.
“When he returned, I noticed he was carrying a cutlass and was accompanied by a friend, probably to move the corpse. That was when I raised the alarm.”
It was further gathered that the deceased, who had been blind for many years, lived quietly in the community.
Shocked residents described the incident as heartbreaking, attributing it to youthful recklessness and moral decay among the younger generation.
It was also gathered that police operatives had visited the scene, although efforts to obtain an official comment from the command proved abortive at the time of filing this report.
Ilaje Local Government has been thrown into jubilation following the return of transformers to Igbokoda and other communities, rekindling hopes for a stable electricity supply in the area.
The transformers, earlier taken to Akure for proper servicing by the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC) on the directive of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, were formally received on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, in Igbokoda. They were handed over to the council by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Odolo Segun, and the Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Barr. Orire Ayo, on behalf of the Executive Chairman.
Residents of the benefiting communities expressed delight, commending the state government and OSOPADEC for the intervention, which they described as a welcome step toward improving living standards and boosting economic activities across Ilaje.
Chairman of Ilaje Local Government, Hon. Maurice Ola Oripenaye (popularly known as Arah), lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. He equally praised the OSOPADEC Chairman, Prince Biyi Poroye. He especially acknowledged the contribution of the Commission’s Secretary, Princess Abike Ilawole, who, as Acting Chairman, supervised the removal and servicing of the transformers.
“The return and installation of these transformers demonstrate the Ondo State Government’s and OSOPADEC’s strong commitment to restoring a stable power supply to our people,” Hon. Oripenaye said. “It further strengthens the confidence of our people in this administration’s ability to convey their yearnings to government and secure lasting solutions.”
Installation of the transformers has already commenced in some communities. The Chairman, however, urged residents to ensure maximum protection of the facilities, warning strongly against vandalism.
“These transformers must not be tampered with. They are critical to our development and must be protected from destruction by vandals,” he cautioned.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to wider electrification, Hon. Oripenaye stressed that the development marks a major milestone in his vision to improve infrastructure and the quality of life across Ilaje.
The Ondo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), alongside its affiliate unions, has formally demanded a new minimum wage of ₦256,950 for workers in the state.
In a letter dated 19th September 2025, addressed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the labour unions described the current ₦73,000 minimum wage as grossly inadequate to meet the basic needs of workers amid the rising cost of living and economic challenges across the country.
The letter, signed by the NLC State Chairman, Comrade Ademola Olapade, and the State Secretary, Comrade Akin Sunday, also called for an upward review of pensions for retirees in the state.
According to the union, the proposed wage reflects current economic realities and represents a fair benchmark for the cost of survival for an average worker in Ondo State.
The NLC further urged the state government to immediately constitute a negotiation committee comprising government officials, labour representatives, and relevant stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue over the proposed wage structure.
While pressing their demands, the unions commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for ensuring regular payment of salaries and pensions, as well as the timely promotion of deserving workers within the state civil service.
The workers’ unions emphasized the importance of addressing wage issues promptly to prevent further erosion of workers’ welfare and standard of living.
El-Kanemi Warriors goalkeeper, Hakeem Otuyiga, popularly known as the Gagama Flying Cat, has extended his heartfelt appreciation to his grassroots coach, Oladimeji Abimbola, for his mentorship and support throughout his football journey.
In a chat with journalists, Otuyiga acknowledged the significant role Coach Abimbola played in shaping his career, describing him as more than just a coach.
“I’m using this opportunity to thank him for all he has been doing in my life and in the lives of many others. I also want to wish him success in his international course in Germany,” Otuyiga said.
Coach Oladimeji Abimbola has been admitted into a prestigious football academy development programme in Germany, organized by X-Touch in collaboration with UEFA-licensed German football administrator, Coach Thomas Geist.
Otuyiga further praised Coach Abimbola for his holistic approach to coaching, noting that he goes beyond the pitch to impact lives.
“Coach Dimeji is not just a coach — he is a father, teacher, and disciplinarian. I have no doubt that the experience he will gain from this international course will be instrumental in developing grassroots football in Ondo State and Nigeria at large,” he added.
The El-Kanemi Warriors shot-stopper concluded by reaffirming his belief that the international exposure will help uplift youth football and foster the growth of future talents across the country.
Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu has announced that standout players discovered during previous editions of the Adu Unity Football Competition will soon be unveiled to the world. He described the first two editions of the tournament as highly successful and expressed his commitment to sustaining the initiative.
Speaking while receiving the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the third edition, led by Chairman Raymond Abdulsalam, at his Alagbaka residence in Akure, Adu stated that the competition has come to stay.
“Some talented players were discovered during the first two editions, and they are progressing well. People may not have heard their names yet, but very soon, the results of their hard work will become evident to all,” he said.
He emphasized that the foundation of the competition has been firmly laid, making it sustainable for the long term.
“The foundation of this competition is built on a solid rock. That’s why it’s sustainable. I commend the LOC for the excellent work they are doing,” he added.
Barrister Adu, who successfully sponsored the 2023 and 2024 editions, received the master plan for the 2025 edition during the courtesy visit. The third edition is scheduled to kick off early next month in Akure.
He reiterated the importance of private sector support in youth development, noting that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility.
“The football competition is one of the many ways we’re empowering our youths—keeping them engaged and giving them hope, especially those with the talent and potential to gain global recognition,” he said.
Adu also noted that his youth empowerment efforts extend beyond football.
“There is talent in every human being, not just the youth. We are exploring all areas of development. My efforts are not limited to football alone.”
In his remarks, LOC Chairman Raymond Abdulsalam praised Adu’s consistency and passion for youth development. He assured that the 2025 edition will see significant improvements in prize money, individual awards, officiating, and overall organization.
A total of 18 teams from across the state are expected to participate in the upcoming edition.
