The Deji and Paramount Ruler of Akure Land, Oba (Dr.) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, CFR will on Monday 15th September, 2025 proceed on his annual Traditional Ulefunta leave.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deji of Akure Land, Michael Adeyeye indicated that the annual leave is expected to last for a period of seven days beginning from, Monday 15th September, 2025 till Sunday 21st September, 2020.
It is important to notify the public and residents that beating of drum in under any guise within Akure Metropolis is PROHIBITED throughout the seven days.
It adds that all roads leading to the Deji’s Palace will be closed to commuters during the Ulefunta Period. All road users along this area are therefore enjoined to make use of the adjoining routes.
All markets, shops and stalls around the Deji’s Palace will remain closed for the Ulefunta Period.
It enjoined Residents to comply with this directive as they go about their lawful duties without any fear throughout the period of the seclusion which the Deji will use to pray and seek the good and peace of the Land.
ONDO GOVT APPROVES TRANSFER OF AKURE HOSPITAL TO FUTA TEACHING HOSPITAL, REVIEWS AGRICULTURE, INFRASTRUCTURE POLICIES
The Ondo State Executive Council has approved the transfer of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) Teaching Hospital complex in Akure to the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), to serve as its College of Medicine and Teaching Hospital.
Briefing journalists after the Council meeting, presided over by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday, September 11, 2025, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, explained that the move follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for FUTA to establish a College of Medicine and a Teaching Hospital.
He said the Akure hospital complex will now be ceded to the Federal Government to serve as FUTA’s main medical sciences facility.
“The handover includes the transfer of staff infrastructure, equipment, and liabilities. All employees will be absorbed into FUTA Teaching Hospital under the Federal Government,” Dr. Ajaka stated.
According to the Council, the development is expected to strengthen healthcare delivery in Ondo State while advancing FUTA’s ambition to become a leading centre for medical sciences in Nigeria.
Also at the press briefing, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Leye Akinola, announced new measures approved by the Council to protect farmers from the impact of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which bans crops cultivated from deforested areas.
He said the government has approved agroforestry practices across selected forests, while ensuring reserved areas remain intact. Cocoa, cashew, oil palm, and rubber farmers will be permitted to continue operations under strict mapping and traceability systems.
“By December 30, 2025, any crop that cannot be traced to a mapped farm risks being rejected at the EU market. To safeguard livelihoods, the state will support farm mapping and grant farmers permits to continue operations,” Akinola added.
The Council also approved a review of tariffs across agricultural produce and timber value chains, aligning Ondo with other Southwest states under the DAWN Commission framework.
On his part, the Commissioner for Information, Mr Idowu Ajanaku clarified that each cabinet member has been directed to nominate a road project in their respective local government areas to impact communities directly.
He stressed that the initiative is not for private or partisan interests but to ensure equitable development across the 18 local government areas.
“These roads are outside the 2025 budgeted projects. They are supplementary interventions to touch communities and enhance connectivity”, Ajanaku added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Hamidu Takuro, said the Council also ratified the appointment of His Royal Highness Joseph Ilésanmí as the monarch of Sosan in Akoko South-East Local Government Area.
Panic gripped students of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, on Saturday when fire gutted a wooden shop beside a hostel on the campus.
Eyewitnesses said the fire started suddenly, adding that attempts by students to break into the shop failed.
“Some of us tried to force the door open, but we experienced electric shock immediately. That was when we noticed naked wires inside, which must have caused the fire,” one student recounted.
Two students sustained minor injuries while battling the inferno but were later confirmed to be in stable condition after receiving treatment. Their quick intervention, alongside others, prevented the flames from spreading.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Comrade Shane Aigbodion, told The Hope that the school management was alerted immediately.
“We contacted the Rector’s office, the Dean of Students’ Affairs, and the Acting Rector as soon as the fire started. That was why the situation got the attention it deserved,” he said.
Aigbodion, however, praised the courage of the students, describing their swift response as a display of unity and responsibility.
Re-accreditation of all private schools, sanction for illegal ones
Ban on underage admissions and unauthorized curricula
Prohibition of graduation ceremonies for nursery and JSS 3 classes
Approval for textbook re-use in secondary schools
Plans to digitize all schools in the state
The Ondo State Government has announced sweeping reforms in the education sector aimed at restoring its lost glory and ensuring strict compliance with standards.
At a stakeholders’ meeting with private school owners across the 18 local government areas, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, outlined key decisions designed to sanitize operations in private schools.
Among the directives are the ban on elaborate graduation ceremonies for non-exit classes (nursery and JSS 3), prohibition of underage admissions, and re-accreditation of all private schools for quality assurance.
Prof. Ajibefun stressed that illegal and unregistered schools would no longer be tolerated, noting that operators of such schools have a six-month grace period to secure approval. He said, “When you run an unapproved school, you are running an illegal business. This administration will not allow illegalities. In the coming weeks, new approval guidelines will be released.”
He further emphasized compliance with the use of approved textbooks, adherence to the state’s school calendar, and alignment with the official curriculum. The commissioner also warned against the use of foreign curricula and age-inappropriate learning materials without clearance from the Ministry.
On excursions and extra lessons, Ajibefun directed schools to seek prior approval due to prevailing security concerns and cautioned against making extra lessons compulsory.
The government also approved the re-use of textbooks in secondary schools to ease the financial burden on parents, stating that siblings can continue to use the same books over time.
Prof. Ajibefun disclosed that the state is working towards digitizing all schools, adding that pupils in both primary and secondary schools will soon be migrated to the Ministry’s digital learning platform.
He warned that private schools must meet the Ministry’s “irreducible minimum standards” or exit the sector entirely.
In response, proprietors and proprietresses of private schools applauded the reforms and commended the governor for appointing a professor as education commissioner. They, however, appealed for more time to complete re-accreditation and urged government to reduce bureaucracy in its dealings with private institutions.
In Nigeria, the sound of drums, jubilant cheers, and national pride often fill the air whenever our athletes return from an international competition with medals.
From football tournaments to track and field events, sportsmen and women are celebrated as national heroes, sometimes with presidential receptions, cash rewards, and national honours.
While such recognition is commendable, many believe it is time the country extended the same level of appreciation to those who excel in academics.
These are individuals whose intellectual brilliance in science, technology, innovation, literature, and other fields have also brought glory to the nation, yet often goes unnoticed.
In a chat with Engineer Olatunde Samuel, a disciplinarian and one of the old students of Saint Joseph College Ondo said honouring academic champions could inspire the younger generation to value knowledge and scholarship as much as they value athletic skill.
He added that Nigerian students have, in recent years, won global competitions in mathematics, robotics, debate, and engineering design.
Yet, many of these achievements pass quietly, without fanfare or reward.
“When a Nigerian wins gold in sports, the entire country celebrates. But when a Nigerian student tops an international science fair, it’s often mentioned briefly in the news, and then forgotten.
That sends the wrong message to our youths about what our society values most.”
In this light, I appeal to Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, as well as private organisations, to recognise Samuel Opeyemi Akinpelumi, a student of Saint. Joseph College, Ondo, who represented Nigeria at the 2025 International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in France.
Competing among students from over 84 countries, he emerged among the top three, a truly outstanding feat.
Akinpelumi returned to Ondo State with an international prize and a prestigious one-year mentorship with Thales, a global technology leader.
Sadly, his remarkable achievement went largely unnoticed by both state and federal authorities. Dr. Marko of Thales described him as “an extraordinary student who must be encouraged.”
According to him: “this young genius has not only made Ondo State proud globally but has also written the Sunshine State’s name in gold worldwide.
His excellence is not by chance, he has a history of exceptional performance.
In 2023, he won the Ekimogun Youth Connect Mathematics Competition and Scholarship Awards. That same year, he emerged third best at the National Mathematical Centre’s Nigeria Mathematical Olympiad, earning a Certificate of Merit.”
“Also in 2023, he won the Best Student in English Award from the Saint. Joseph College Old Boys 1993 Set.
His brilliance continued in 2024 when he became the overall best student at the National Olympiad Competition, leading to his appointment as Prep Ambassador by the Daramola Adeosun Foundation (DAF).
He also showcased his intellectual mastery at the Simbiat Adeyeye Quiz Competition.”
This is not an isolated case. In 2023, a team of Nigerian secondary school students stunned the world by winning the International Robotics Competition in Geneva, Switzerland.
Their innovative automated irrigation system drew global praise, yet at home, the recognition paled in comparison to that given to sports stars.
Creating a culture that celebrates academic success will inspire more young people to pursue excellence in research, innovation, and knowledge creation.
Such achievements could lead to solutions for pressing challenges in healthcare, energy, and technology.
Parents and educators are now calling on government bodies, corporate organisations, and the media to give academic achievers equal visibility and incentives, through national awards, scholarships, and public recognition ceremonies.
Sports will always hold a special place in our hearts, but the mind is also a powerful tool for nation-building. It’s time to celebrate our thinkers the same way we celebrate our athletes.
As Nigeria continues to nurture talents in all fields, expanding the celebration of excellence beyond sports will help build a more balanced, forward-looking society, one where both the body and the mind are equally honoured.
I am absolutely elated to learn of the honorary doctorate conferred upon you today by Pal University! This prestigious honor is a true reflection of your unwavering dedication to community development, your outstanding contributions both locally and globally, and your relentless pursuit of excellence.
You are a shining example of hard work, integrity, and purposeful leadership. I couldn’t be prouder to call you not only my sister but also my cherished aburo. Your achievements continue to inspire many, and this well-deserved recognition is yet another testament to the incredible impact you have made and continue to make.
I celebrate this remarkable milestone with you and eagerly look forward to the many greater heights you will surely attain. You are deeply admired, dearly loved, and highly celebrated.
The Yangede of Epe community in Ondo State, Oba Oyebade Akinkuade Isaac (65), along with two others, Philip Akinrintan (61) and Tolu Akinwande (56), have been brought before an Akure Chief Magistrate Court over allegations of unlawful excavation and environmental degradation.
The trio was brought before the court on a five-count charge bordering on forcible entry, breach of peace, willful damage to economic crops, unlawful degradation of surface soil, and destruction of survey beacon pillars.
According to the charge sheet, the defendants allegedly conspired to unlawfully excavate and cart away approximately ten tipper loads of sand, valued at N35 million, from land belonging to one Akintunde Akinrele Johnson. The incident reportedly occurred in February 2024 at Epe, within the Ondo judicial division.
The prosecution stated that the act was carried out in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace, as the land was in the peaceful possession of the complainant. The defendants were also accused of willfully degrading the surface soil and damaging economic crops estimated at N2 million. Additionally, they allegedly destroyed survey beacons worth another N2 million.
The offences contravene Sections 517, 81, 451, and 457 of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
The accused persons pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Police Prosecutor, Mr. Tolu Abisagbo, informed the court of the prosecution’s readiness, noting that five witnesses would be called to testify. He requested an adjournment to assemble all evidence and serve proof to the defence.
Defence counsel, Barrister Jimoh Famoritiye, applied for bail on behalf of the defendants, urging the court to grant it on liberal terms. He assured the court of their willingness to appear at all proceedings, noting particularly that Oba Akinkuade, being a traditional ruler and a respected community leader, poses no flight risk.
Chief Magistrate Odenusi-Fadeyi, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N5 million, with two sureties each in like sum. The sureties are required to provide evidence of tax payment for the years 2024 and 2025, and their residences must be verified by the police.
The case was adjourned to September 8, 2025, for hearing.
Aiyedatiwa lauds Judiciary, reaffirms commitment to Ondo people, promises more Infrastructure and Security
The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure on Thursday, upheld the election of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, dismissing petitions filed by opposition parties for lack of merit.
In its unanimous judgment, the three-man panel led by Justice Nimpar Yargata, and comprising Justices K.I. Amadi and I.M. Sani dismissed the appeals brought by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), and Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The appellate court affirmed the earlier judgment of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal delivered on June 4, which validated the All Progressives Congress (APC) victory in the November 16, 2024, governorship election.
The court ruled that the appellants failed to substantiate their allegations of electoral malpractices and could not demonstrate how any alleged infractions affected the overall outcome of the election. It further held that the petitions were effectively abandoned due to the failure of the appellants to present credible witnesses and evidence.
Accordingly, the court upheld the tribunal’s decision, reaffirmed the election of Governor Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, and awarded a total cost of N1.5 million against the appellants.
Reacting to the judgment, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to God, the judiciary, and the people of Ondo State for their continued support.
“I give glory 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 last November to lead as the seventh democratically elected governor,” he said.
“That mandate was affirmed by the tribunal and has now been reaffirmed by the Court of Appeal. While some sought to overturn the people’s decision through the back door, the judiciary has again stood firm in defense of democracy and justice.”
The governor also acknowledged the support of his deputy, legal team, APC leaders, and party members, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering more on infrastructure, security, and other key sectors of development.
Notable dignitaries present at the court included the APC State Chairman, Hon. Ade Adetimehin, and Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Olamide Oladiji, among others.
Ondo State House of Assembly Member representing Ilaje Constituency II, Honorable Princess Olawumi Annah Fayemi-Obayelu, has extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Super Falcons’ exceptional defender, Demehin Tosin, a proud daughter of Ilaje, on her remarkable victory alongside her teammates at the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Morocco.
In a statement signed by her Special Legislative Assistant, Lemadoro Felix Ife, Princess Fayemi-Obayelu celebrates this outstanding achievement as a moment of pride for the entire Ilaje community, stating:
Tosin’s resilience, discipline, and passion on the field have not only contributed to Nigeria’s continental triumph but have also brought immense honor to Ilaje nation. We are proud to call her our own, and her success serves as a powerful inspiration to our young girls who dream of greatness. This is a victory for Nigeria, for Ondo State, and especially for Ilaje.
She applauds the Super Falcons for their dedication and for once again proving Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football on the African stage, urging continued support for female athletes who continue to uplift the nation.
Concludes Profiling, Issues Guidelines, and Orders Continuous Registration
The Chairman of Okitipupa Local Government, Hon. Andrew Ogunsakin, has officially lifted the ban earlier placed on scavenging and scrap metal activities within the local government area.
This decision follows the successful completion of a comprehensive profiling and registration exercise for individuals and operators engaged in the business across the council.
As part of the process, the biodata of all registered scavengers are now securely documented in the council’s database, and the exercise will remain continuous to accommodate new entrants and updates.
To ensure sanity, accountability, and public safety, the council has issued official identification jackets and numbers, ID cards, and branded stickers to all verified scavengers. The Chairman emphasized that only individuals in possession of these identifiers are authorized to operate within the local government area.
He further warned that anyone found engaging in scavenging activities without proper identification will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
Hon. Ogunsakin also called on the general public to remain vigilant, cooperate with the authorities, and refrain from taking laws into their own hands. He urged residents to promptly report any form of suspicious or illicit activity to the appropriate security agencies or the local government office for swift action.
The council remains committed to ensuring a safe, organized, and inclusive economic environment for all lawful businesses, and the people in Okitipupa Local Government.
Tosin Ayejusunle Press Secretary to the Chairman of Okitipupa Local Government 16th July, 2025
