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UTME 2025: NNPP Chieftain, Ajadi Descends On JAMB Management, Says It’s System Failure Is An Embarrassment To The Nation

A South West Chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has descended on the Management of the Joint Admission And Matriculation Board, (JAMB) over shoddy handling of this year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, ( UTME), saying they are not fit to occupy the offices they are holding.

It would be recalled that there were reports of a candidate who scored 150 in the Joint Matriculation examinations, but days after the examination, he checked again following public outcry and found out that his mark had been reduced to 120.

Also, at Odogunyan in Ikorodu Area of Lagos State, one Faith, 19 years allegedly killed herself with poison. She had scored 190 and could not understand the reason having read day and night.

However, on Wednesday, JAMB acknowledged discrepancies in the results of some candidates who took the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME).

JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, addressed the findings, apologizing for the errors and taking full responsibility.

He announced that candidates from 157 out of 882 examination centers would be given a chance to retake the test, with the rescheduled exams starting on Friday, 16 May 2025.

Ajadi in a statement on Friday condemned the shoddy conduct of the examination which is the only avenue for millions of students to gain admission into Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education.

Ajadi said the excuse by the JAMB Registrar and his apology cannot save those who have died and millions of students whose future are being destroyed, noting that the rescheduled resit for the affected students within a short time is not the best way for students to prepare for examination.

He called on the Federal Government through the Ministry of Education to institute a probe of the JAMB activities which led to the recent embarrassment, saying those found culpable should be punished.

According to the statement, ” The recent admission of error by JAMB in the conduct of this year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, ( UTME) is an embarrassment to the nation. JAMB has through its inefficiency caused sorrow for families who lost their loved ones as a result of frustration in the recent conduct of exam.

“While I sympathise with the families who lost their loved ones and millions whose children’s future have been trampled upon, I call on government to get to the root of the matter. Government should also consider a means to decentralize the Matriculation Examination in the country as it seems that JAMB is overburdened. The resit Examination should not be rushed. JAMB should give more time to avoid similar mistakes.”.

Don’t Push Alaafin Against Ibadan, History Favors Olubadan Ahead of Him as Chairman of Oyo Council of Obas, Chiefs – Ibadan Stakeholders

The Mogajis in Ibadanland, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), monarchs, Baales, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland, other stake others have cautioned Oyo State House of Assembly against making Alaafin the permanent chairman, Oyo State Council of Oba’s and Chiefs.

The stakeholders said Ibadan people should not be taken for granted haven’t been the backbone of the entire Yorubaland when the fulanis were advancing towards southwest during a war that almost engulfed Yorubaland.

A statement by the President of Ibadan Mogaji, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori and Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade stated that there has never be a time Ibadan is second to Oyo.

According to the duo, “There is a rumor flying around that Alaafin of Oyo was the one that crowned Olubadan in 1976, to set the record straight, Ibadan and the Olubadan has been in existence centuries ago, that is why we were called ‘omo a binu fade ya’, with our status, Ibadan has enthroned many monarch, they should go to Ilesa and confirm.

“When there was an issue between Oweweniye and Ogbagbadigba, Ibadan was the one that enthroned the monarch in Ilesa. Ibadan has sometimes resettled Ife when Ife was dissolved, they should go back to history and check, if not for the intervention of Ibadan, may be Oyo will have be having an Emir instead of Alaafin of Oyo.

“The entire Yoruba race should be grateful to Ibadan, there has never been a time where Alaafin enthroned Olubadan, so Ibadan people and Olubadan can never be a second fiddle to Alaafin.

“At a point in history, Bashorun Ogunmola ordered Alaafin and his Emissaries to carry the local building materials that will be used to build his palace from Oyo to Ibadan.

“Ibadan has been the chairman, Oyo State Council of Oba’s and Chief during the reign of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III as the Alaafin of Oyo.

“Even when Oba Lamidi Adeyemi was having issues with the then Ooni of Ife Oba Sijuade Olubuse , over the Permanent Chairmanship of Old Oyo state council of Obas and Chiefs, he always ran to Ibadan for cover, that was during the reign of Oba Yesufu Oloyede Asanke.

“Ibadan is not a push over, history is in favor of Ibadan when it comes to that , they should be careful and not allow us to open a Can of worm.”

The stakeholders faulted the State House of Assembly to exclude some Ibadan Chiefs from being a member of the Oyo State Council of Oba’s and Chiefs, saying all the head of traditional traditional council in 11 local government of Ibadan should be a member of the Oyo State Council of Oba’s and Chiefs.

“Olubadan and Otun Olubadan, Otun Balogun has always be a member of Oyo State Council of Oba’s and Chiefs from time immemorial, the lawmakers are now leaving out The Ibadan Royal Majesties like Asipa Olubadan, Osi Olubadan, Osi Balogun and Asipa Balogun , Ekerin Olubadan, Ekerin Balogun among others.” While Onjio, Eleruwa, Ajoriwin, the head of traditional Council Saki East, Itesiwaju LG will make the list. What an afront?

Birthday: Peller Celebrates with Special Students, Promises Continuous Support

In a heartwarming celebration that showcased compassion and commitment, Hon. (Dr.) Shina Peller on Wednesday marked his 49th birthday with the students of Pacelli School for the Blind and Partially Sighted Children in Surulere, Lagos State. 

 

This annual tradition has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for the students, emphasizing that love and encouragement can transcend any challenges life may present.

 

The birthday event was filled with joy and enthusiasm, as family, friends, and close associates gathered to honor Hon. Peller’s special day with the students.

 

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as these remarkable students showcased their talents through various performances, emanating pure happiness from the opportunity to celebrate alongside their beloved guest.

 

The students stressed that the annual gathering represents much more than a birthday party, adding that it was a testament to community spirit and shared dreams.

 

Since 2013, Hon. Peller has made it a heartfelt tradition to spend his birthday with the students of Pacelli School. This yearly visit not only enriches the lives of these young individuals but also reinforces the notion that they are cherished members of society, deserving of attention and support.

 

In his speech, Hon. Peller expressed how celebrating his birthday with the special students is both a privilege and an honour he deeply values.

 

In addition, he urged the students to look beyond their physical limitations, emphasizing that their circumstances do not dictate their destinies, stressing that t is their ambition, resilience, and belief in themselves that will ultimately mold their futures.

 

Peller urged them all to visualize their goals and pursue their passions relentlessly, reminding them that they possess unique talents that can shine brightly in the world.

 

“Your physical circumstances do not define your destiny. Life may present obstacles—some visible, others hidden—but it is your spirit, ambition, and unwavering belief in yourself that truly shape your future,” he passionately declared.

 

Moreover, Hon. Peller reaffirmed his commitment to returning to the Pacelli School and sharing moments of joy and inspiration with the students. He encouraged them to embrace their individuality as a source of strength and navigate their paths with confidence.

 

“Remember, you have the gift of sight beyond sight, a vision that can illuminate the path not only for yourselves but for others as well,” he said, leaving the students with a heartfelt message of empowerment.

 

During the celebration, Hon. Peller was recognized with the Africa Leadership Award, honored as the African Icon of the 21st Century amid cheers and applause from students, teachers, and distinguished guests.

 

Dr. Seun Akinde, Chairman and CEO of New Nigeria Television Channels, presented the award, highlighting that the recognition symbolizes courage, vision, and a transformative impact on society.

 

AkInde said, “It is not merely an award ceremony but a celebration of a future being rewritten by those who dare to challenge the status quo.”

Communities Hail Oyo South Senator, Alli for Solar Streetlights

Two communities under Oyo South Senatorial District have commended Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli (APC-Oyo South) for installing solar-powered streetlights aimed at boosting security and improving infrastructure in their areas.

This commendation was contained in separate appreciation letters sent to the senator and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ibadan, acknowledging his timely and impactful grassroots intervention.

The Oluwokekere New Bodija Extension Residents’ Association and the Aba-Alamu/Bembo-Logudu-Olosun Community Association, in separate letters, expressed delight over the senator’s commitment to community safety and his efforts in delivering visible dividends of democracy.

Oluwokekere Bashorun/New Bodija, through a letter signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Folayan Alawewo and Secretary, Mrs. Elizabeth Adewusi, said the project deterred criminal activities previously hidden by darkness.

They recalled how the community handed over a fully constructed police station to the Nigeria Police Force in 2000 and appealed for a three million support toward completing their ongoing building project like he’s presently doing for Ashi Police Station.

Similarly, Aba-Alamu/Bembo-Logudu-Olosun Community, comprising 32 smaller communities, thanked Senator Alli through a letter signed by President Alhaji Fasasi Ajisefinni and Secretary Alhaji Mojeed Hammed for lighting up their roads with solar lights.

They described the senator’s gesture as noble and impactful, noting that his responsiveness to community needs stands as a shining example of people-centered leadership in public service.

Both communities offered heartfelt prayers for Senator Alli’s continued success and pledged unwavering support for his political journey, encouraging him to sustain his developmental strides across Oyo South Senatorial District.

CCII, Ibadan Mogajis, ICPI, Other Stakeholders Kick Against Alaafin as Permanent Chairman Oyo Council of Obas, Chiefs

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis in Ibadanland, Ibadan Compounds Peace Initiatives (ICPI), Baales, Monarchs and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland have rejected attempt by the Oyo State House of Assembly to make the Alaafin of Oyo, the permanent Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The Ibadan stakeholders warned the State House of Assembly not to create problem, saying the Chairmanship position of Council of Chiefs and Obas in Oyo State has always and should be on rotational basis.

Recall that the Oyo State House of Assembly is deliberating on the second reading of the Council of Obas and Chiefs (Further Amendments) Bill, 2025 at its plenary session today.

The proposed legislation seeks to reaffirm and institutionalize the Alaafin of Oyo as the permanent authority and presiding chairman of the Council of Obas and Chiefs, effectively abolishing the rotational chairmanship system among traditional rulers in the state.

The Council of Obas and Chiefs Law, Cap. 37, Laws of Oyo State, 2000, initially placed the Alaafin of Oyo as the permanent chairman, giving him the authority to convene and preside over meetings, while directing council affairs before it was amended

But a statement by President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogajis Asimiyu Ariori and Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogajis Nurudeen Akinade stated that Ibadan people has never for ones be in second in command to Oyo, but rather position herself in the protection of the entire Yoruba kingdom.

The duo said Ibadan has vast empire and has saved the entire Yoruba land many times.

According to the duo, If not for Ibadan that stopped the Fulani people when they were advancing towards southwest, some Yoruba monarchs would have been titled as Emir’s.

“Chief Obafemi Awolowo wouldn’t have became the Premier of Western region if not for Ibadan People’s party that joined hands with Action Group (AG) against, NCNC of Nnamdi Azikwe., by now the free Education and infrastructure, industrial and other developmental efforts would have probably eluded the Yorubaland.

“Ibadan has always been saving Yoruba nation, there was never a time Ibadanland has been second in command to Oyo or any other town in Yorubaland, in fact, Ibadan should be make the permanent chairman of Oyo Obas. For the fact that we keep quite doesn’t mean that we are fools.

“When Ibadan people do not claim to be the permanent chairman, why will Oyo Alaafin want to be so ? The Oyo State House of Assembly will have themselves to blame if the Tories obnoxious bill scales through.

“Former governor Christopher Alao Akala has approved the rotational Oyo Obas rotational chairmanship during his tenure as the governor of Oyo State, with HIM, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade 1 presided over the Council meeting. Ibadan will not take it because we are always the number one in all affairs.”

Ife Architecture Summit 2.0: Redefining the Future of Architecture Through Leadership, Mentorship and Innovation

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife — The Ife Architecture Summit, the flagship event of the Ife Architecture Students’ Association (IFASA), is set to make a bold return with its second edition themed “BEYOND BUILD,” spotlighting a transformative rethinking of architecture as not just a design discipline, but as a tool for nation-building, leadership, mentorship, and educational advancement.

Scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 19, 2025, as a grand highlight of the university’s annual Archiweek, the Ife Architecture Summit 2.0 will convene top architectural minds, industry leaders, and forward-thinking students under one roof, to interrogate and reimagine the future of architecture in Nigeria.

Themed “The Future of Architecture in Nigeria: The Role of Leadership, Mentorship, and Education,” this year’s summit promises rich, thought-provoking dialogue. A high-powered panel session will feature some of the most esteemed figures in Nigerian architecture alongside emerging young voices reshaping the built environment.

Distinguished Guests, Honorees and Thought Leaders

Among the eminent professionals confirmed for the summit are:

Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi, PNIA, FNIA, President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects

Arc. Olusegun Ladega, FNIA, Managing Director, Interstate Architects Ltd.

Prof. C.O. Osasona, FNIA, a foremost academic and expert in architectural heritage

In recognition of their lasting impact on architecture, these distinguished guests will be honored with special awards:

Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi will receive the Architectural Leadership & Nation-Building Award

Arc. Olusegun Ladega will be conferred with the Innovative Practice & Urban Development Award

Prof. C.O. Osasona will be celebrated with a Lifetime Impact Award in Architectural Education & Heritage

Also expected at the summit are leaders and members of allied student bodies within the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management, as well as architecture students from universities across South-West Nigeria.

Institutional Endorsement and Stakeholder Support

Despite being a student-led initiative, the summit enjoys the full backing of the university’s top leadership. Among those expected to grace the occasion are:

Professor Simeon Bamire, Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University

Professor Olusegun Ogunba, Dean, Faculty of Environmental Design and Management

Professor A.D. Jiboye, Head, Department of Architecture

Their presence reflects the summit’s growing influence and the recognition of IFASA’s vision as a catalyst for academic and professional excellence.

BBG Administration: Charting a Bigger, Better, and Greater Vision

Led by President Oyekan Favour, the BBG (Bigger, Better, Greater) administration of IFASA has been widely acclaimed for its innovative and transformative leadership. Together with Vice President Teslim Yusuf, Secretary-General John Ojo, and other vibrant student leaders, the administration has steered IFASA into an era of creativity, inclusiveness, and progress.

Their track records include:

A landmark socio-academic trip to Lagos, featuring visits to iconic projects like Eko Atlantic City, J.K. Randle Museum, Banana Island sites, and architectural landmarks in UNILAG.

Hosting a robust software bootcamp training students in AutoCAD, Revit and 3Ds Max.

Collaborating with Future Design Collaborative for a virtual summit that drew participants from across Africa.

Launching mental health and wellness initiatives in collaboration with Arogi Trauma Care Foundation.

Leading IFASA’s participation in the NAAS Western Regional Convention held at Bells University.

Organizing key events like the Visualization Design Challenge, Musical Open Fest, and a Love Feast supporting the university’s non-academic staff.

Facilitating mentorship and research through online platforms, including Twitter Spaces and industry-led conversations.

Summit Legacy and Institutional Excellence

The inaugural edition in 2024, themed “Dream to Reality,” laid a strong foundation. It featured notable figures such as Bayo Omoboriowo, Anderson Edewor, and Arc. Cynthia Adeokun, setting the tone for a reawakening in architectural thought. The 2025 edition builds on that momentum, casting a wider net of ideas, inclusiveness, and vision.

The Department of Architecture, OAU, has long distinguished itself in the academic and professional space. Renowned for championing sustainable design, digital innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the department remains one of the most competitive in the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management.

More Than a Summit: A Movement for Architectural Renaissance

Ife Architecture Summit 2.0 is not merely a conference—it is a movement. It signals a generational shift, driven by students determined to push architecture beyond buildings and into the domains of national development, educational reform, and socio-cultural transformation.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with urbanization challenges, housing deficits, and infrastructural gaps, the summit offers a timely and visionary platform to redefine the architectural profession’s role in shaping the future.

For IFASA and its vibrant student body, the message is clear: architecture is no longer just about blueprints—it is about building people, institutions, and a better Nigeria. The Ife Architecture Summit 2.0 is the next bold step in that journey.

National Archives Staff, Husband, Children Celebrate Former Head, Adeoye As She Retires In Grand Style

The retirement ceremony of a conscientious, devoted worker, good and considerate leader, the former Head of National Archives, Ibadan zonal office , Mrs. Omolola Taiwo Adeoye, will continue to linger in the memories of staff, family, friends and host of others present at the occasion.

The event which was held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, started with praises at the new head of department’s office, Mr. Olawale Idris Ogundipe, who hosted the former head accompanied by members of the welfare planning committee.

In his words, Ogundipe lauded the former head, Adeoye for her good deeds during her administration and promised to follow her legacy.

Adeoye in her response, thanked the new head, Olawale Ogundipe for his cooperation and support when he was her deputy, praying for his successful tenure in office.

Thereafter, the chief host, Mr. Ogundipe now led them to the hall for the program to kick start .

The opening prayer was said by Mr. Abiodun Adekoya followed by the introduction of guests done by the fast rising comedian and master of ceremony, Mr. Kunle Bademosi .

The keynote address was said by the new head who was also the chief host of the occasion, Mr. Olawale Ogundipe.

Ogundipe thanked all the invited guests and staff present and lauded the former head, Adeoye for her positive impacts in the life of the staff and rapid development of office entirely.

Meanwhile, in the tributes, Ibadan zonal office of national archives staff, families and friends hailed the former head, Mrs Adeoye for the good legacies she had laid for the new head, Mr. Ogundipe and staff of Ibadan national archives to follow.

Her grandson, aged seven , Pamilerin was not left out showering encomiums on his grandma and also prayed for her long life.

In her response, Mrs Omolola Taiwo Adeoye, could not hide her joy for the celebration and encomiums showered on her, thanked all those present and prayed for same to them when they retired from service.

Thereafter, the citation was read and presentation of gifts was coordinated by the chairman, planning committee, Mrs Yewande Omotade, who later invited the members of the planing committee to present their gift to the former head, Mrs Omolola Taiwo Adeoye and toast was performed by master of ceremony, Kunle Bademosi.

During an interview with Apreel1 Events TV, the husband, Deacon Aderemi Adeoye stated how he has taken back his wife from the federal civil service while the children, friends and family lauded the former head.

On a final note, the former head, Adeoye during her vote of thanks with Apreel1 Events TV, thanked the Director, National Archives, Mrs Evelyn Odigboh for the believe and trust she had in her to head the Ibadan zonal office, all staff of national archives, family members and all invited guests.

The closing prayer was said by the new head of department, Mr. Olawale Ogundipe.

Kunle Bademosi anchored the event and covered by Apreel1 Events TV.

‘Odidiomo’ Hosts Women To Celebrate Int’l Mother’s Day

As part of activities commemorating the 2025 International Mother’s Day, the federal lawmaker representing Ibadan North-west/Ibadan South-west Federal Constituency of Oyo state, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, on Sunday hosted thousands of women from across Oyo State to a special luncheon in Ibadan.

According to the Special Adviser, Media and Public Affairs to the lawmaker, Tolu Mustapha, the well attended event, held in the Anfani political residence of the lawmaker was organised to celebrate the resilience, strength and invaluable contributions of women, particularly mothers to societal development and nation building.

Hon. Olajide, who is the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, lauded Nigerian women for their unwavering commitment to family, community service and national progress.

He noted that the role of women in shaping the policy direction and value system of any society cannot be overemphasised, describing them as “the heartbeat of sustainable development.”

“Our mothers and women are the pillars upon which the home and by extension, the nation stands. They are not just nurturers of life but also trailblazers in every sector be it education, health, governance and the digital economy,” he said.

Olajide used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to policies and legislative interventions that promote gender equity, digital inclusion for women, improved healthcare and welfare delivery for mothers and children in his constituency.

Guests at the colourful ceremony included grassroots women leaders, market women, artisans, professionals, community heads and political stakeholders from the 11 Local Governments in Ibadanland.

They expressed appreciation to the lawmaker for his consistency in prioritising women focused programmes, describing him as a compassionate leader with a deep understanding of the needs of his constituents.

International Mother’s Day, observed every second Sunday in May, is dedicated to honouring the sacrifices, love and dedication of mothers across the world.

Ajadi Felicitates Pope Leo XIV, Urges Him To Promote World Peace, Good Governance

A South West Chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has felicitated with the new Pope, Pope Leo XIV on his election.

This is as he also congratulated the United States of America (USA) President, Donald Trump, that the first American to be a Pope was elected during his second term reign as US President.

Leo was chosen Thursday evening, just two days after a group of 133 cardinals gathered in conclave to select a new pontiff, suggesting that he quickly impressed his peers during the secretive process.

He succeeded Pope Francis who died on April 21, 2025, ( Easter Monday) at the age of 88 at Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City.

Pope Leo XIV, whose real name is Robert Francis Prevost, 69 years old is the first Pope from United States and the first North American Pope. He is the 267th pontiff of the 1.4 billion-strong Roman Catholic Church.

Ajadi in a statement on Friday congratulated the new Pope on his election urging him to sustain the reforms initiated by the Late Pope Francis.

He said what is paramount now is peace, urging the new Pope to use his influence and Charisma to promote World Peace as well as good and descent living for the downtrodden.

He said he is optimistic that the tenure of the new Pope will bring a fresh air of peace in all continents of the World.

According to the statement, “I rejoice with the Catholic Church on the election of a new Pope, Pope Leo XIV.

“I believe his election and tenure will bring fresh air of peace across the World. I urge the new Pope to use his influence, religious leadership to promote tolerance among the different races of the World.

“He should also strive to seek good living conditions for the underprivileged in the society. May his tenure bring lasting peace to the World and progressivism to the countries that are struggling to be on their feet.

“Congratulations Pope Leo XIV , I wish you a good tenure and I pray you will sustain the reforms initiated by your predecessor, Pope Francis.

“I also congratulated the US President, Donald Trump, that the first American to be Pope came during his second term tenure as the United States of America (USA) President”.

APC Chieftain, Faniyi Congratulates Senator Teslim Folarin on Coronation as Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland

Honorable Olayinka Faniyi, the CEO of YinfannyMedspa and founder of Theyinfannyfoundation has extended warm felicitations to Senator Teslim Folarin on his coronation as the Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland in a grand display of respect and admiration.

 

The ceremony, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brought together esteemed members of the community, dignitaries, loyalists and well-wishers.

 

Faniyi, known for her philanthropic gestures and commitment to community development, lauded Senator Folarin’s achievements, highlighting his contributions to Ibadanland and beyond.

 

“The ceremony was a beautiful display of tradition and cultural significances. Aare Alaasa Teslim Folarin’s ascension is a well-deserved honour that showed his unrelenting commitment to promotion of traditional institutions in Ibadanland.

“I am delighted to commend his humility, leadership, intellectual prowess and unwavering commitment to the progress of Ibadanland.” Faniyi stated.

 

Theyinfannyfoundation, identified for its impactful initiatives in education, healthcare and empowerment, looks forward to continued collaboration with community leaders like Senator Folarin.

 

The patroness of the Gospel Musicians Association of Nigeria (GOMAN) prayed for wisdom, strength and greater grace for Senator Folarin as he assumes his new responsibilities.

 

She expressed confidence that his tenure as Aare Alaasa would bring added value to the Olubadan-in-Council and the people of Ibadanland.

‘Odidiomo’ Trains More Than 80 Artisans On Digital Skills, Calls for Special Cybercrime Courts

No fewer than 80 artisans from across the 33 Local Government Areas of Oyo state have benefited from a five-day virtual digital skills training organised by the member representing Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency of Oyo state in the House of Representatives, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

The training which was held during the week, formed part of Hon. Olajide’s constituency project and was designed to equip participants with essential digital competencies for productivity and inclusion in the fast-evolving technology-driven economy.

The participants were exposed to modules on digital communication, collaboration and content creation, technology for social well-being, inclusion and the use of digital tools for environmental protection, among others.

Speaking at the closing session of the training, which was also held virtually, the two-term federal lawmaker emphasised the need to institutionalise digital law clinics, judicial capacity building programmes and regional cybercrime courts to tackle the growing menace of cybercrime in Nigeria.

Olajide, who lamented the increasing involvement of young Nigerians in internet related crimes, stated that initiatives such as the digital skills training were designed to empower youth to earn decent livelihoods through legitimate means, rather than as an avenue to perpetuate cybercrime.

He, however, decried the fragmentation among the institutions responsible for addressing cybercrime in Nigeria. According to him, poor coordination, overlapping mandates and inter-agency rivalry among bodies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), NITDA, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) continue to undermine the effectiveness of the nation’s cybercrime response.

“With such institutional bottlenecks in today’s interconnected digital ecosystem, where cybercrimes often involve actors, servers and financial intermediaries across multiple jurisdictions, Nigeria’s failure to ratify the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime despite being a signatory hampers its ability to engage in transnational investigations, intelligence sharing and evidence gathering,” Olajide said.

The lawmaker maintained that for Nigeria to effectively protect its digital sovereignty and empower its citizens in the digital age, strong legal frameworks, coordinated institutional action and youth focused empowerment programmes must be prioritised.

Senator Alli Hails Folarin’s Elevation as Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) and Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland has extended heartfelt congratulations to former Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Kolawole Folarin, on his elevation to the prestigious title of Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland.

This is contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Friday in Ibadan.

Senator Alli described the elevation as a well-deserved honour that reflected Senator Folarin’s unrelenting commitment to Ibadanland and promotion of traditional institutions.

The lawmaker commended the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin for upholding the revered Ibadan traditional system.

He noted that the elevation of Senator Folarin from Ikolaba to Aare Alaasa signifies his deepening role in the traditional hierarchy of Ibadanland.

“Senator Folarin has continued to distinguish himself in public service and traditional leadership.

“I urge him to use this new position to further the cause of unity, development and cultural preservation in Ibadanland,” he said.

The lawmaker prayed for wisdom, strength and greater grace for Senator Folarin as he assumes his new responsibilities.

He expressed confidence that his tenure as Aare Alaasa would bring added value to the Olubadan-in-Council and the people of Ibadanland.

Akinyemi Akinpelu Congratulates Senator Teslim Folarin on New Chieftaincy Title

In a grand display of respect and admiration, Honorable Akinyemi Akinpelu, Founder of the Akinyemi Akinpelu Foundation, extended warm felicitations to Senator Teslim Folarin on his coronation as the Aare Alaasa of Ibadanland.

The ceremony, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brought together esteemed members of the community, dignitaries, and well-wishers. Akinpelu, known for his philanthropic endeavors and commitment to community development, praised Senator Folarin’s achievement, highlighting his contributions to Ibadanland and beyond.

“Aare Alaasa Teslim Folarin’s ascension to this revered title is a testament to his dedication to our great city and its people,” Akinpelu stated. “I commend his humility, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Ibadanland.”

The Akinyemi Akinpelu Foundation, recognized for its impactful initiatives in education, healthcare, and empowerment, looks forward to continued collaboration with community leaders like Senator Folarin.

Olubadan Suspends 2 Mogajis Over Alleged Land Grabbing

His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin 1 ), the Olubadan of Ibadanland has suspended two Mogajis and removed their traditional beads.

They are Mogaji Kukula, Kamorudeen Kolawole of Kukula family, Oke – Ofa Baba Isale in Ibadan North East Local Government and Mogaji Samsudeen Bello of Ekerin Ajengbe family, Isale Osi in Ibadan South West Local Government of Oyo State.

 

The suspension order which takes immediate effect was given during the Olubadan Land Matters Committee meeting at old Olubadan Palace, Oja Oba Ibadan on Thursday.

 

Speaking through the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Olubadan said the suspension order would remain until the suspended Mogajis do the needful.

 

In his words,”Your suspension order is indefinite until you retrace your steps and do the needful”, Olubadan affirmed.

 

” You have been told severally to desist from any act that can tarnish the reputation and image of the Olubadan and Ibadanland such as land grabbing, trespassing, forceful land taking, oppression of your family members and other residents in your domain” the monarch reiterated.

 

The suspended Mogajis should henceforth stop parading themselves as Olubadan traditional title holders till their cases are revisited.The law enforcement agents are called upon to apprehend any suspended traditional ruler parading themselves as authentic Chiefs contrary to the sanctions imposed by His Imperial Majesty on them.

 

The paramount ruler frowned at the non chalant attitude of some Mogajis and Baales that ignored the invitation of the Olubadanland Land Matters Committee, emphasising that they are doing so at their own peril as such absentee traditional title holders will henceforth loose their traditional titles as their absence will be viewed as insubordination to the constituted authority.

 

Present at the meeting were the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Oba Abiodun Kola Daisi the Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland , Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees the Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Salaudeen Hamidu Ajibade the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Isiaka Akinpelu the Special Adviser to Olubadan on Chieftaincy Matters, the President Association of Mogajis in Ibadanland Mogaji Ariori of Olorisa family, Mogaji Adeleke Lukman the Secretary to the Committee and Mogaji Abdul Rasaq Akinola the reporting officer to the committee among others.

FG Flags-off Ibarapa Re-electrification Project After 15 Years

The long-awaited re-electrification project in Ibarapaland officially commenced on May 8, 2025, with a flag-off ceremony held in Igboora, Ibarapa Central.

The contract was awarded through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to restore electricity to communities that have experienced over 15 years of blackout.

Mr. Emmanuel Cletus, an engineer who represented the project contractor, Electech Power Trfo Limited, visited the area to mark the beginning of work on behalf of the Federal Government.

Cletus visited traditional rulers, including the Olu of Igboora, the Onidere of Idere, and the Oluaso of Iberekodo, to inform them of the commencement.

He explained that phase one of the project covers line rehabilitation from Eruwa to Ayete, erection of poles, and installation of four transformers in Idere and surrounding areas.

Cletus assured that the first phase would be completed by June 2025, after which the second phase from Ayete to Igangan, will begin promptly.

All three monarchs warmly received the team and expressed joy, saying the lack of electricity has crippled the area’s economic and social activities for years.

The IBEDC team, led by Mr Adeola Ogundiran also joined the flag-off, pledging strong collaboration with the contractor and REA to ensure project success.

Chief Akinyemi Akinlabi, Convener of Initiative for Ibarapa Electricity, expressed delight that the Tinubu-led administration has started fulfilling campaign promises.

He thanked President Tinubu, Minister of Power Adelabu, and REA MD Abubakar Aliyu, urging traditional rulers to support the project team for smooth implementation.

Akinlabi also reassured the people of Ibarapa that other promises in the Renewed Hope Agenda would be fulfilled, bringing more development to the region.