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No fewer than five persons have reportedly lost their lives in a tragic road accident that occurred on Friday along the Etikan axis of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
According to a report by Ondo South TV, the victims were said to be returning from Araromi Beach in Ilaje when the fatal crash occurred.
Eyewitnesses attributed the incident to overspeeding, noting that accidents frequently occur along the stretch of the road, especially during festive periods.
Some residents described the area as a recurring accident spot, calling for urgent intervention by relevant authorities.
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been released by the police or other emergency agencies regarding the incident.
Efforts to obtain confirmation from security agencies were unsuccessful.
….No life lost, no church attacked during incident – Police Commissioner.
Following the New Year’s eve attack on the Ipele police station in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has directed intensified patrols across communities and forest areas, stressing that security remains a 24-hour responsibility, particularly during festive periods.
The Governor spoke on Thursday after an emergency meeting with the heads of security agencies at the Presidential Lodge of the Government House in Akure, where he reviewed the response to the attack and measures to prevent its recurrence.
He explained that the attack occurred late on Wednesday night while many residents were attending night services to usher in 2026.
The Governor said that upon receiving the report, he immediately contacted the police and the Brigade Commander of the army, instructing that security personnel be deployed to support officers on patrol and protect residents.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that security operatives, including members of the Joint Operations Task Force and Amotekun Rangers, were already on patrol throughout the state and in forested areas.
Their rapid mobilisation, he said, ensured that the attackers, who gained access to the police station and discharged an explosive, were unable to harm anyone.
“Somehow they were able to breach security, but the swift response of the security agencies helped greatly to curtail the situation. Nobody lost their life,” the Governor said.
The Governor said that only the police station was damaged. All officers survived and were able to rejoin their colleagues on patrol to prevent further criminal activity.
He added that the emergency meeting with security chiefs focused on reviewing the incident, assessing the security response, and ensuring that similar acts do not happen again.
Also speaking, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, said the governor convened the emergency session with the heads of the police, military, DSS, Civil Defence and Amotekun to assess the situation and activate strategies to apprehend the perpetrators.
Lawal dismissed reports circulating on social media suggesting casualties or attacks on churches, affirming that no lives were lost and no church was affected.
He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of damage, including items looted from the police armoury, cautioning that it is premature to label the incident as a terrorist attack until arrests are made.
“It is too early to conclude that they were terrorists. Once investigations are complete and arrests are made, we will identify those responsible,” the commissioner said.
Lawal reassured residents that Ondo State remains one of the safest states in Southern Nigeria and urged citizens to remain calm and maintain confidence in the security agencies.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. January 1, 2026.
A Magistrate Court in Akure, the Ondo State capital, has ordered the arrest of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Seun Osamaye, over an alleged assault on a Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Temitope Alphonso.
According to the charge, the alleged assault occurred at the premises of the Ministry of Women Affairs while Chief Magistrate Alphonso was on an official engagement with the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, in the presence of ministry staff.
In an affidavit attached to the charge, Magistrate Alphonso stated that the incident followed a judgment she had earlier delivered which was unfavourable to the commissioner. The affidavit alleged that the commissioner responded by verbally abusing and physically assaulting the magistrate.
Part of the affidavit reads:
“That when I asked her to stop cursing, the defendant told me to shut up and said I was just a mere Magistrate, adding that even the Chief Judge of Ondo State cannot open his mouth when she is talking.”
“The defendant further warned me to watch my back, claiming she had all the apparatus to make me go missing if I was not careful. She beat her chest while making the threat.”
“She also stated that by the time she was finished with me, the Governor of Ondo State would not be able to rescue me, let alone the Chief Judge.”
At the hearing of the case today, the commissioner reportedly failed to appear in court. Her counsel, Barrister Adewusi, informed the court that she was receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Ilara-Mokin and requested a stand-down to allow time to present evidence of her hospitalization.
Magistrate Damilola Sekoni stood down the matter for one and a half hours, after which he ruled that the commissioner must appear in court or face legal consequences.
Upon resumption, a medical report was presented by the defence, but it sparked controversy as the prosecuting counsel challenged its authenticity.
In his ruling, Magistrate Sekoni rejected the medical report, describing it as unsatisfactory because it failed to confirm that the commissioner was admitted or medically unfit to attend court. The document did not include key details such as the date and time of admission, prompting the prosecution to describe it as hastily prepared and possibly forged.
Citing what he described as the commissioner’s disregard for the authority of the court, Magistrate Sekoni ordered her arrest and remand in prison custody. The case was adjourned until January 12.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ondo State Government had yet to issue an official response.
World boxing champion Anthony Joshua is currently recovering in a hospital following a road traffic accident that took place along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday.
The accident, which occurred around midday, involved a Toyota Lexus jeep carrying Joshua and three other passengers. Tragically, two passengers, identified as Ayodele Kelvin Olu (36), a Nigerian/British citizen, and Gami Sina (36), a British citizen, lost their lives in the incident.
The Ogun State Government confirmed the accident and extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. Governor Dapo Abiodun promptly visited the hospital where Joshua is receiving treatment, later joined by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Together, both governors spent several hours at the hospital to oversee the situation and ensure that Joshua received appropriate medical care.
Reflecting on the incident, Governor Abiodun stated, “As soon as I was informed, I headed straight to the hospital and was later joined by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. We both took charge of the situation, oversaw Anthony Joshua’s care, and remained at the hospital for over seven hours.”
Other senior officials who visited the hospital included the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Bukola Olopade, both of whom offered institutional and professional support.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was fully briefed on the incident and reportedly spoke separately with Anthony Joshua, his mother, and Governor Abiodun, conveying his sympathies and condolences.
The British High Commission was formally notified about the accident, and its officials are monitoring developments while maintaining contact with the hospital and the Ogun State Government. The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Simon Field, visited the hospital to meet with Anthony Joshua and the two governors. The families of the deceased have also been contacted through the High Commission.
See also Christmas: Obayangban Urges Unity, Backs Aiyedatiwa’s Development Drive
Regarding Joshua’s health, the Ogun State Government confirmed that he remains in stable condition and is receiving adequate medical attention. The government expressed satisfaction with the quality of care being provided by the medical team.
This information was relayed in a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, to newsmen in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Tuesday.
Governor Abiodun assured the public that every effort is being made to ensure the best possible medical care for the boxing champion. “We are comfortable with the doctors and the quality of care at the hospital, and we appreciate the medical team for their professionalism,” he stated.
He also confirmed that authorities have ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, promising that the findings will be made public upon completion. The governor emphasized that his government would continue to provide updates on Joshua’s condition and any developments related to the incident as necessary.
Quoting President Tinubu, he remarked, “This immense tragedy has cast a deep shadow over this season. These are very difficult moments, and we must stand firm, united, and encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.”
Honorable Princess Olawumi Annah Fayemi-Obayelu takes this opportunity to extend her warmest wishes to her constituents for a joyous Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance. She expresses her heartfelt gratitude to the people for their unwavering support and trust in her government.
As the representative of Ilaje Constituency II in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Princess Fayemi-Obayelu reaffirms her commitment to providing exceptional representation, ensuring that the voices and concerns of her constituents are heard and addressed. She promises to continue working tirelessly to deliver the dividends of democracy, improving the lives of the people and bringing about meaningful development to the community.
“As we celebrate the festive season, I want to assure you that I remain dedicated to our collective progress and well-being,” Princess Fayemi-Obayelu said. “I am honored to serve you, and I look forward to continuing our journey together towards a brighter future.”
May this Christmas season bring joy, peace, and love to the people of Ilaje Constituency II, and may the New Year usher in new opportunities, growth, and prosperity for all .
The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has commended the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his continued support for the media, particularly the donation of a brand-new bus to the Chapel.
The commendation followed a media stakeholders’ dinner hosted by the governor last Saturday at the Government House, Akure, where the donation was formally announced. According to the Chapel, the Correspondents’ arm remains one of the most critical operational units of the NUJ in Ondo State, comprising journalists representing national newspapers across the country who often travel long distances to cover official and public-interest assignments.
The Chapel noted that the donation of the bus would significantly enhance its operational efficiency, especially in facilitating mobility for effective coverage of government activities and other engagements across the state.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Comrade Tosin Ajuwon, and the Secretary, Fidelis David, the Chapel described the gesture as timely and thoughtful, adding that it underscored Governor Aiyedatiwa’s recognition of the vital role of the media in promoting democracy, good governance, and public accountability.
The journalists further stated that the donation would strengthen the cordial and mutually respectful relationship between the Ondo State Government and the media.
The Chapel also praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his media-friendly disposition and commitment to openness, engagement, and cooperation with journalists in the state.
Meanwhile, the Correspondents’ Chapel extended commendation to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, for his professionalism, leadership, and effective coordination of the Governor’s media office.
The statement noted that Prince Adeniyan’s accessibility, competence, and dedication have contributed immensely to improved information flow and a strengthened working relationship between the government and journalists.
The Chapel assured the Chief Press Secretary of its continued support and cooperation, pledging to ensure timely, accurate, and objective reportage of the policies, programmes, and achievements of the Aiyedatiwa administration.
It reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism anchored on fairness, balance, and public interest in the overall interest of informed public discourse and effective governance in Ondo State.
The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Dr. Ademola I. Ebeloku, has felicitated with members of the institution’s community on the celebration of the 2025 Christmas season.
In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Governing Council, Academic Board, Management, staff and students, the Rector extended warm greetings to the Polytechnic community, particularly Christian faithful, describing Christmas as a season that symbolises the birth of Jesus Christ and the values He represents.
Dr. Ebeloku urged members of the institution to use the yuletide period to reflect on and emulate the virtues of love, humility, tolerance, perseverance and compassion, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
He acknowledged that the outgoing year 2025 was marked by various challenges and uncertainties, noting, however, that the institution and its members enjoyed divine mercy, kindness and protection throughout the year.
“As we journey into the year 2026, I appeal to all and sundry to look ahead with renewed hope, dedication and commitment to excellence,” the Rector said, expressing optimism that the new year would usher in good tidings for the Polytechnic community.
Dr. Ebeloku concluded by wishing staff and students a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year in advance.
The message was e-signed by Dr. Ademola I. Ebeloku, FCIA, FIMC, MCIPM, Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji.
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency, freedom of expression and closer engagement with journalists, promising a more constructive and mutually respectful relationship with the media in the state.
The Governor made the assurances on Saturday during a dinner with media executives and stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Akure, where he outlined his administration’s approach to information dissemination, accountability and engagement with the press.
Reflecting on the early days of his tenure, which began in December 2023, Governor Aiyedatiwa acknowledged that misinformation and unverified narratives often dominated public discourse, creating misunderstandings and tension between the press and government.
He noted that officials were appointed to correct falsehoods and improve communication, culminating in his first formal engagement with media stakeholders in early 2024.
Emphasising the importance of openness, the Governor assured that dissent would not be suppressed. “Freedom of expression is allowed. People can speak their minds, even if they criticise me directly,” he said, stressing that such engagement is crucial for accountability and learning.
He urged journalists to report responsibly, recognising that anonymous sources can sometimes distort facts. “Our focus is on learning from reports rather than pursuing unnamed individuals,” he added, highlighting the need for context when interpreting public statements, speeches and creative expressions.
Governor Aiyedatiwa praised journalists for publishing factual accounts of government activities, underlining their role in informing the public and reinforcing democratic principles.
He assured that the administration would continue to provide timely clarifications and accurate information to support responsible reporting.
The Governor also committed to strengthening institutional support for the media, including facilities such as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, while promising to address lingering challenges in due course. He announced the donation of a bus to the state Correspondents for ease of engagements.
He confirmed that plans to convert Owena Press Limited into a corporation are ongoing, adding that he had instructed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, SAN, to review the legal implications, with findings yet to be presented to him.
The Governor thanked the media for their cooperation, describing the parley as a foundation for deeper collaboration, mutual understanding and a shared commitment to accurate reporting in Ondo State.
Earlier, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, commended the Governor for prioritising action over propaganda. “We thank the radio, TV and newspapers for focusing on what the government is doing,” he said, citing the billion-dollar refinery project as one of the largest industrial undertakings in the state’s history.
In his welcome address, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, noted that the relationship between the government and the media has improved greatly in the outgoing year.
He detailed government’s support initiatives through his office, including provision items to media houses, scholarships for children of widows of journalists, increased government visibility at media events and increased monthly allowances for press staff.
He stated that while the working relationship between the government and the media is yet to reach its full potential, it has made significant progress under the Aiyedatiwa administration.
Speaking on behalf of electronic media, the Group Chief Operating Officer of Crest FM, Adeolu Gboyega, described the gathering as a valuable opportunity and urged the resolution of longstanding commitments dating back to the previous administration.
He also praised the CPS for improving relations between the government and the media, urging more support for the governor’s spokesman.
On his part, the Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents Chapel, Tosin Ajuwon, thanked the Governor for appointing one of their own as CPS and appealed for a bus for media coverage and more direct engagement between the press and cabinet members.
The NUJ Ondo State Council Chairman, Comrade Leke Adegbite, lauded the appointment of experienced journalists as Commissioner for Information and CPS, applauding their dedication to the job.
He highlighted the need to address ageing manpower in the Ministry of Information and pension concerns for Owena Press staff.
Adegbite noted that, customarily, the sitting Governor is the Grand Patron of the union; and accordingly, Governor Aiyedatiwa was decorated as NUJ Grand Patron at the event.
Those present at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Tob Loko, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Segun Omoyofunmi, Special Adviser on Communication, Mr. Allen Sowore, Director-General of OSRC, Mr. Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson and SUBEB Chairman, Rt Hon Victor Olabimtan.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. December 21, 2025.
In a remarkable demonstration of corporate social responsibility and community support, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has embarked on the reconstruction of 12 units of room-and-parlour self-contained residential apartments at the 19 Battalion Naqoura Barracks, Okitipupa, Ondo State, a project that has now reached 95 percent completion.
This benevolent initiative is being executed by the Ondo State Operations of Tantita Security Services Nig. Ltd, under the purposeful leadership of Snr. High Chief Idowu Asonja, and is aimed at improving the welfare and living conditions of military personnel and their families stationed at the barracks.
Prior to the intervention, the affected housing units were in a dilapidated condition, falling short of acceptable living standards and posing challenges to the comfort and safety of their occupants. Recognizing the critical role of decent accommodation in enhancing morale and productivity, Tantita Security Services Nig. Ltd took it upon itself to fully rebuild the apartments as part of its ongoing commitment to nation-building and community development.
The reconstruction covers a comprehensive upgrade of the structures, including reinforced building works, improved roofing, modern sanitary facilities, enhanced ventilation, electrical fittings, and overall structural rehabilitation designed to ensure durability, comfort, and functionality. Upon completion, the 12 units of room-and-parlour self-contained apartments will provide a more dignified and conducive living environment for personnel of the Nigerian Army serving at the 19 Battalion Naqoura Barracks.
Speaking on the project, the management of Tantita Security Services Nig. Ltd reiterated the company’s resolve to go beyond its core security mandate by making meaningful contributions to the communities and institutions that play vital roles in national security.
“This project reflects our deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by our armed forces. Providing improved accommodation is one of the ways we can support their welfare and contribute positively to the communities where we operate,” the company stated.
Under the supervision of Snr. High Chief Idowu Asonja, the Ondo State operations team has ensured that the project adheres to quality standards and is delivered efficiently. Chief Asonja emphasized that the initiative was driven by a genuine desire to give back to society and strengthen the bond between Tantita Security Services Nig. Ltd, host communities, and security institutions.
“This is a selfless contribution to the community and to those who serve our nation. Tantita Security Services Nig. Ltd remains committed to sustainable development, peace, and collaborative efforts that uplift lives and institutions across Ondo State and Nigeria at large,” he said.
With the project now at 95 percent completion, final finishing works are underway, and the apartments are expected to be ready for handover in the coming days. The initiative has drawn commendation from stakeholders within the barracks and the Okitipupa community, who have described the gesture as timely, impactful, and reflective of responsible corporate citizenship.
Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited reaffirmed its dedication to continuing similar community-focused projects, reinforcing its role not only as a security service provider but also as a partner in development and national progress.
Signed:
Corporate Communications Unit Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited
The Ondo State Ministry of Transport has cautioned traders, market women, and commercial transport operators against obstructing major roads across the state, warning that such practices worsen traffic congestion and endanger road users.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Hon. Olugbenga Omole.
According to the statement, traders and residents in Oja Oba (Akure), Sabo Market (Ondo), Ikare, Akungba, the Ore Overhead Bridge and other major towns must immediately stop selling goods or spreading food items, including coco-garri and elubo, on highways and designated road corridors.
The Ministry also expressed concern over the activities of some tricycle operators (Keke maruwa) who have turned strategic locations such as Oba Adesida Road, Arakale Road, Alagbaka axis and the ShopRite area into illegal parks and roadside trading points. Hon. Omole warned that any tricycle operator found violating the directive risks immediate impoundment of their vehicle.
He added that law enforcement officers have been deployed across the state to ensure full compliance, stressing that the government will no longer tolerate actions that obstruct free vehicular movement or compromise the safety of motorists and pedestrians.
The Special Adviser also praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for ongoing road rehabilitation and new construction projects across the state, noting that the governor’s efforts have significantly improved mobility for residents.
Hon. Omole wished the people of Ondo State a peaceful and joyful Yuletide season.
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