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I’ll Sustain Demand For University Autonomy — ASUU President

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  The current National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, says that he and his administration will sustain the demand for university autonomy. This was even as his immediate predecessor, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, stated that poor treatment of university lecturers is responsible for academics japa. Prof. Christopher Piwuna, who is a Nigerian Professor of Medicine and currently the 14th National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, stated this on Monday during a reception organized for the immediate past President of ASUU by Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike chapter of the union. Prof. Piwuna promised “I will sustain the demand for university autonomy, academic freedom and other general conducive environment for ASUU members”, stating that strike action is a universal tool that can not be taken off the table, but only applied if the government fails to honour its agreements with ASUU.” “ASUU struggle is a collective one that concern the lecturers, students and the parents. Strike is a universal tool that is not perculier to Nigeria alone. It is a toll that is used all over and can not be taken off the table, but we hope that we don’t have to embark on any action before we can get what we want,” he said. Also speaking, the Chairperson of ASUU in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, MOUAU branch, Chike Ugwuene, extolled the former President of ASUU, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, for making MOUAU and the nation proud, adding that there is harmony now between the management of MOUAU and ASUU in Umudike. “He served the nation and made ASUU MOUAU proud by fighting for the the betterment of education system in Nigeria. There is harmony between ASUU MOUAU and the university management. The management is cooperating with us but don’t be surprised that if anything goes wrong, we will still ask for our rights and for the betterment of the society”, she said Receiving the former ASUU President, the Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Professor Maduebibisi Iwe, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor(Academics), Prof. Nneoma Obasi said his university is proud of the roles Prof. Osodeke played as President of ASUU, stating that MOUAU stood by Osodeke “throughout his sleepless nights of endless negotiations.” In his speech, Prof. Osodeke said under his leadership, the union fought several battles to keep education alive during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige. According to him, “Ngige’s rough relationship with ASUU created a lot of confusion in the country,” which he said, would have collapsed the education system if not for ASUU’s resilience. Professor Osodeke said that the poor treatment of university lecturers was responsible for the exodus (japa) of Nigerian academics to the United States, Europe and Saudi Arabia, adding, “We encountered a lot of difficulties during the era of Ex- President Muhammadu Buhari, anchored by Chris Ngige who created a lot of confusion when we were struggling for the good of our education system.” “Our struggles have kept our public Universities where they are today and saved them from collapsing like other public institutions like Nigerian Airways and Nigerian refineries,” and explained that ASUU was able to achieve the removal of Universities from the IPPS system, while a number of Professors now retire with their full pay. He noted that ASUU’s struggle is a collective initiative for the interests of lecturers, students and their parents, regretting, “public universities still offer quality education more than private ones”, stating that 95% of university students’ population in Nigeria are still found in public universities. The Pro Chancellor/Chairman, Governing Council of MOUAU, Felix Edeh, represented the Visitor to the University, President Bola Ahmed, while a former National President of ASUU, Isa Nasir Fagee, was the chairman of the occasion. Punch

Tinubu’s Wife’s N1bn Donation Stirs Protest Among IDPs In Benue

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Some Internally Displaced Persons from various camps on Wednesday thronged the Makurdi/Laafia Federal Highway and protested the non-sharing of the N1 billion donation made by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of President Bola Tinubu. Senator Tinubu, who paid a condolence visit to the state on Tuesday, donated N1 billion for the victims of armed herder attacks. The displaced persons stormed the Makurdi/Laafia federal highway, which disrupted the free flow of vehicular movement. One of the protesters, who simply identified himself as Teeser, accused the state government of not giving out several donations it has received from spirited individuals. He said, “Several people, both private and public-spirited people, have been donating for the upkeep of displaced persons, but nothing has been received from the state government. “The wife of the president, Senator Tinubu yesterday (Tuesday) donated N1 billion to displaced persons and the state government is yet to reach out to us. The Information Officer of the State Emergency and Management Agency, Tema Ager, dismissed the claim by the IDPs, saying that no IDP in the state is being starved. He said that the government was constantly providing for their needs. He said, “The major issue that triggered this protest is politics. Simply because the first lady visited yesterday and announced that she donated N1 billion. You know the process of getting this money; sometimes, they just announce it. It’s when they go back that they process it. “What she announced yesterday cannot happen today, and so the money is for resettlements, not for food, and some of them are protesting that they were given money before, and we have not shared it with them. “That money is not meant to be shared with them. The protest was politically motivated. They were supposed to be given food last week, but the event was overtaken by events. “As we speak now, food is being distributed to them, but they protest that the road was politically motivated. The last time food was distributed to the IDPs was in May this year, but currently, food is being distributed to the IDPs across the state. Reacting to the protest, the Technical Adviser on Media, Communication and Publicity to the state governor, Solomon Iorpev, said that the protest was politically motivated. “If not so, the wife of president Tinubu, senator Oluremi just gave the cheque on Tuesday which is yet to be cleared and cashed for the purpose it was meant. Today, IDPs have blocked the Makurdi – Lafia- Abuja high way demanding for the money.” Iorpev said that Governor Alia is keen on ensuring the welfare of the vulnerable groups in the state, and he will be the last person to think of diverting money meant for the less privileged and urged politicians to close ranks to move the state forward. Efforts to get a reaction from the Police Public Relations Officer for Benue State Command, DSP Udeme Edet, were not successful as calls put to her were unanswered. Punch

Oyo Govt Debunks Claims On Converting Bola Ige Market Carpark To Shop…says upgrade is transparent, collaborative

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  The Oyo State Government has debunked allegations that it has replaced the car park at Bola Ige international business complex, popularly known as Gbagi Market with new shops and extorted money from unsuspecting traders, overnight. This misleading report was published by a certain online blog and subsequently circulated on social media. The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon Adeniyi Adebisi, said the claim is entirely false, mischievous, and an intentional misrepresentation of an ongoing, well-planned redevelopment project. He said the Gbagi market redevelopment effort is being spearheaded in phases by the Oyo State Government, under the supervision of the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, in close partnership with the market leadership and representatives of zonal traders’ associations. Mr. Adebisi said the portion of land being referred to was not an official car park but an underutilized area, prone to illegal vending and security risks. The Commissioner said following broad consultation with stakeholders, it was approved for formal stall development to promote orderliness and improve access and safety within the market environment. “Furthermore, No part of the main designated car park has been taken over or eliminated. The new shops are not situated in the core vehicle parking zone, he said. “Allocations were not made secretly or overnight, but through a transparent and documented process, coordinated by the leadership of the traders and relevant government departments. “Standardized shop allocation fees were communicated in advance to interested traders with options to opt in or out—there is no evidence of “coerced” payments as wrongly alleged. He reiterated that no trader will be unjustly displaced, and the project will be executed in line with the master plan agreed upon with all key market stakeholders. Adebisi urged members of the public, particularly media outlets, to verify facts before spreading reports capable of inciting public unrest or misleading residents. He also encouraged Market leaders and traders to channel concerns or inquiries to the Market Support Desk at the Ministry or reach out directly to the designated liaison officers. According to him, “the general public, particularly our esteemed market stakeholders, are urged to disregard this fabrication, which is clearly being sponsored by opposition elements and detractors determined to politicize every laudable initiative of the present administration.” Furthermore, the Chairman of the Zonal caretaker Leaders’ Bola Ige international business complex, Gbagi Ibadan, Alhaji Adetonan Morufu who featured on a radio station programme in Ibadan on Wednesday, firmly debunked the allegations and clarified the facts behind the redevelopment effort.

OYSADA Commences 5th Distribution Exercise Of N-Cares Farm Inputs To Farmers•••As Beneficiaries In Ido, Ogbomosho LGAs Laud Makinde Over Initiative

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IBADAN  –  The Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), under the Director General (DG), Dr. Debo Akande, has commenced the fifth distribution of farm inputs to farmers across the geo-political zones of the state. The farm input distribution aligns with the Nigeria Community Action For Resilience And Economic Stimulus (N-CARES) program, which the state has adopted for the benefit of farmers. The State Project Coordinator (SPC), Mr. Ishola Popoola, who led the OYSADA team on the distribution exercise on Monday at Arowomole, headquarters of Ogbomosho South Local Government, urged farmers to make good use of the inputs. While addressing the farmers on behalf of the OYSADA DG, Popoola stated that Governor Seyi Makinde had mandated the agency to carry out the exercise to assist farmers across the state and increase food production. Farmers in Ogbomosho South were also addressed by Mr. Adeniran Adegboyega Ajani, the Head of Local Government Administration. The Executive Chairman of the local government, Hon. Oyedokun Oyeniyi Timothy, was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Sunday Folarin. Others present were Princess Bello Bolanle Adenike (Director of Agriculture), Hon. Adegboyega Stephen (Supervisor for Agriculture), and Mrs. Akanni Olaide (Deputy Director of Agriculture). Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Elder John Oyekale, Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ogbomosho South Chapter, said: “We really appreciate Governor Makinde for his timely support. I also commend the DG of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande, for the transparent and orderly manner in which this distribution was carried out.” In Ogbomosho North Local Government, the OYSADA N-Cares distribution team was received by the Executive Chairman, Hon. George Ogunlade, alongside the Secretary of the Local Government, Mrs. Bolanle Olaniyi, and other political officials. In his remarks, Hon. Ogunlade said, “Governor Makinde is doing well for farmers in the state. Just a few weeks ago, some of our farmers were called to Ibadan, where they received farm inputs. Today, we are also witnessing another farm input distribution by OYSADA. Our farmers will go home with smiles on their faces, as they are receiving another round of support.” “So, I’m using this medium to urge you all to continue supporting our government, the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration, because to whom much is given, much is expected.” Two local farmers, Mrs. Alice Oyekale (a cassava farmer) and Mr. Alabi Are (a maize and soya beans farmer), also expressed their appreciation. Mrs. Oyekale said, “This support has brought great relief to us. The cost of inputs is very high, and we didn’t expect this kind of help to come so soon. We thank the government for remembering us.” Mr. Are added, “I’m grateful for this intervention. It shows that the government is serious about supporting agriculture. With these inputs, I am hopeful this farming season will be a productive one.” The distribution exercise also took place in Ido Local Government Area, where the OYSADA N-Cares team, led by the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ishola Popoola, who was represented by Dr. Ayedun Bamikole, reiterated the agency’s commitment to reaching every farming community across the state. The Executive Chairman of Ido Local Government, Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, expressed his gratitude to the governor and OYSADA. He revealed that a total of 40 bags of NPK fertilizer, 100 bags of 50kg maize seeds, and 70 bottles of 1-litre herbicides were distributed to ten groups of farmers. In his words, “This administration is intentional about boosting food production and empowering rural farmers. Ido Local Government is grateful to Governor Makinde and OYSADA for this targeted intervention. We will continue to play our part in supporting agribusiness.” Also present were key local government officials, agricultural supervisors, and community leaders who supported the smooth execution of the exercise. Two beneficiaries from Ido also shared their views. Mr. Razaq Adebayo, a maize farmer from Akufo, said, “These inputs came at the right time. We have been struggling with the high cost of fertilizers and seeds. I thank Governor Makinde for remembering us in Ido. With this support, my yield will definitely improve.” Mr. Olarenwaju Akeem, representing a cooperative group, added, “What we received today may look small to some people, but to us farmers, it is a big relief. OYSADA has done this with fairness and transparency. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Debo Akande and the Governor. They have brought hope back to us.” OYSADA, under Dr Debo Akande leadership has supported over thirteen thousands of smallholder vulnerable farmers in the state and this has reflected in the high volume of crop production in the state in the last three years

Oyo Govt Announces Scheduled Movement Of Oloolu Masquerade In Ibadan

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The Oyo State Government has announced the scheduled movement of Ibadan-based popular Oloolu Masquerade across selected areas in Ibadan, from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, July 31, 2025. In a statement issued and made available to the Media by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, explained that the popular Oloolu, one of the most significant Egungun (Masquerades) in Ibadan, is deeply rooted in the City’s Cultural History. He explained that popular Oloolu is traditionally forbidden to be seen by women, except for women born as triplets,who are believed to receive special blessings from the Masquerade. The Commissioner maintained that unlike other masquerades, Oloolu does not follow a fixed route, as its movement is guided spiritually, adding that some of the notable areas expected to be visited during the procession include Aafin Olubadan, Beere, Oje, Idi Arere, Gate, Agbeni, Orita Merin, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Oranyan, Oke Aremo, Agugu, and Ore Meji, among others. The Government appealed to residents of Ibadan, especially women, to remain mindful of the cultural significance of this festival and to cooperate with local authorities and community leaders during the movement of the masquerade. He appreciated the continued support and understanding of the general public as we celebrate this important aspect of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.

Oyo PDP Guber Aspirant, Aare Olayinka Segelu Hails Gbadamosi, Kangara For Grassroots Service In Birthday Message

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Governorship hopeful and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aare. Olayinka Segelu, has extended heartfelt birthday wishes to two outstanding grassroots leaders in Oyo State, former Lagelu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi, and the current Secretary and Sole Administrator of Akinyele Local Government and Akinyele East LCDA, Hon. Kazeem Hamed Adekunle, popularly known as Kangara. In a goodwill message personally signed and released on Sunday, Aare Segelu described the two celebrants as “pillars of grassroots governance” whose commitment to people-centered leadership and total loyalty to the PDP have continued to inspire confidence and progress across their respective constituencies. “On this special occasion,” the statement reads, “I join the good people of Lagelu and Akinyele to celebrate two men of vision, loyalty, and uncommon dedication, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi and Hon. Kazeem Hamed Adekunle (Kangara). Your birthdays offer us all an opportunity to reflect on the impact of your leadership, your consistency in party affairs, and your deep commitment to the development of our dear state.” Germany-based business tycoon also added: “To Hon. Gbadamosi, your years as Chairman of Lagelu Local Government remain a benchmark in grassroots administration. You governed with clarity, inclusiveness, and a deep sense of duty. Your name continues to command respect in Lagelu and beyond.” “To Hon. Kangara, your administrative strength and political dexterity, especially in steering Akinyele Local Government and Akinyele East LCDA at critical times, speak volumes about your competence and grassroots appeal. You have shown true capacity as a party man, a loyal public servant, and a leader of the people.” “As you both celebrate this new chapter, I pray for long life, good health, and continued relevance in the political journey ahead. May you be continually strengthened to serve, to lead, and to make even more meaningful impact in the lives of your people and the PDP family in Oyo State.” “Happy birthday once again to two of our party’s finest. The future remains bright with dedicated leaders like you in the fold.”

Lady Arrested In Lagos For Mixing Spoiled Yam Flour With Harmful Colouring

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  Officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps have arrested a woman for allegedly adulterating yam flour (elubo isu) with harmful colouring agents. The arrest was disclosed on Friday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, via his official X handle. Wahab said the suspect, identified as Mrs Kehinde Raji, was apprehended following a tip-off from the Chairman of the Elubo Sellers Association, who raised an alarm about dangerous food adulteration practices within the market. According to the commissioner, the suspect was allegedly mixing spoiled yam flour with hazardous colouring chemicals to produce contaminated elubo, which was then sold to unsuspecting consumers. He wrote, “This morning, we received credible intelligence from the Chairman of Elubo Sellers Association regarding dangerous food adulteration practices within the market. The report indicated that some unscrupulous traders were mixing harmful coloring agents with spoiled yam flour to produce contaminated ‘Elubo Isu’ for unsuspecting consumers. “Our KAI enforcement team immediately conducted a raid, leading to the arrest of one Mrs. Kehinde Raji who was caught engaging in this criminal activity. We commend the market leadership for bringing this critical public health issue to our attention. “Preliminary reports confirm that several consumers have already suffered health complications from consuming this adulterated product. The suspect will be prosecuted in accordance with the relevant law of #followlasg.”

2025 AYANGALU FESTIVAL: THOUSANDS GATHER AS OONI DRUMS FOR PEACE, UNITY, REAFFIRMS SPIRITUAL LEGACY OF ILE-IFE …GIFTS DRUMMERS N4.95M

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  Thousands of culture enthusiasts, scholars, and traditionalists stormed the ancient city of Ile-Ife on Thursday for the 2025 edition of the Ayangalu Drum Festival, as the Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, led the celebration with powerful drumming to promote peace, unity, and cultural continuity. The colourful festival, held at the courtyard of the Palace of Ile Oodua, drew an impressive gathering, including professors from the Departments of Linguistics and Music at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), 250 members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students from OAU, and contingents from other institutions across the South-West region. In a show of support for indigenous creativity, the Ooni gifted a total sum of N4.95 million to winners of the drumming competition and cultural performers. The first-place winner walked away with N1 million, second place received N750,000, and third position got N500,000. The revered monarch also presented N2 million to performers from the Moremi Ensemble, N500,000 to ace drummer Akande Onilu, while two other drummers received N100,000 each. Addressing journalists at the event, the Ooni emphasised the sacredness of the drum in Yoruba cosmology. He said, “We believe the drum holds great significance in our daily lives. In the olden days, drums were used for virtually everything be it good news or times of war, the drum was the medium of communication. “The drum is deeply symbolic to us, the Yoruba people. Ayangalu, the originator of the drum, is venerated among the 201 deities of Ile-Ife and shares a spiritual link with Orunmila. He began his journey in Atiba here in Ile-Ife, and although some of his descendants later migrated to Oyo and Nupe lands, many still reside in Ife. Every year, we honour his legacy through this festival. “To us, Ayangalu is synonymous with the drum. I drum today for peace, for joy, and for abundant blessings. Since childhood, I have found fulfilment in promoting and preserving this sacred tradition.” Also speaking at the event, Olori Ronke Ogunwusi lauded the Ooni for his consistent moral and financial support, not only for the festival but also for cultural renaissance efforts in Ile-Ife and beyond. She praised key stakeholders such as Seamans, university professors, NYSC members, OAU pupils, traditional chiefs, and guests for gracing the occasion. “We have gathered here to celebrate our rich cultural heritage. Ayangalu represents excellence in creativity, and I urge every Yoruba person to value their roots and continue learning from one another. As the competition captivates us, let it also remind us to uphold unity and the enduring power of our tradition,” she noted

Oyo Govt Bans Sunday Trading At Gbagi Market

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  IBADAN – Oyo State Government has announced its readiness to enforce ban of Sunday Trading at the Bola Ige International Business Complex, popularly known as Gbagi Market, Ibadan. The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi stated this on Thursday, in his Office at Secretariat Ibadan. The Commissioner explained that the ban will curb rising insecurity and restore order at the market, adding that the enforcement will take effect from Sunday, 27th July 2025. He hinted that the enforcement is a culmination of a series of consultations and meetings held with market leaders and stakeholders over time. Hon. Adebisi explained that criminal elements were increasingly exploiting the less crowded Sunday environment to perpetrate unlawful activities, saying this prompted renewed engagements with the market leadership, after the government decided to formalize the ban and put enforcement measures in place. According to him, the ban on Sunday trading was originally instituted by the market leadership themselves, in a bid to maintain order and protect traders. “However, some traders have continued to flout the directive, leading to a rise in insecurity concerns.” “We cannot fold our arms and allow the hard-earned reputation of this great market to be tarnished by the activities of a few criminally-minded individuals. After a careful review and collaboration with the market leaders, we all agreed that strict enforcement of the Sunday trading ban is a necessary step towards restoring sanity and safeguarding the lives and property of our traders and customers,” he said. To ensure compliance, the Commissioner announced that a dedicated task force will be deployed to the market every Sunday to prevent any form of trading or business activity. He stressed that the enforcement is not a new directive but a government-backed measure to support the market’s existing policy and protect law-abiding traders. The Commissioner stressed further that Market leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the government’s support and pledged their continued cooperation. He emphasized that the safety of traders, customers, and their businesses remains paramount to this government. Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, highlighted the importance of shared responsibility between the government and the trading community. He assured stakeholders of the government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and order within the market. “The Bola Ige International Business Complex is one of the largest and busiest textile and general merchandise markets in the Southwest region”, he said. “Traders and members of the public are urged to take note of the government’s enforcement action and ensure full compliance, as violators will be sanctioned in accordance with existing regulations.

EU Votes Over ₦800m To Assist Displaced Persons In Benue

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  The European Union has allocated €500,000 (approximately ₦886 million) to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to thousands of internally displaced persons in Benue State. This follows a surge in deadly attacks that have worsened the state’s protracted humanitarian crisis. According to the EU, more than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes since 2018. The EU also stated that between 2024 and 2025, no fewer than 6,900 lives had been lost and over 400,000 people displaced. In a statement on Thursday, the EU’s Public Affairs Officer, Politics, Press and Information Section, Ugo Sokari-George, said the funding will be used over a six-month period to support critical interventions in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration. Sokari-George said, “In response to the influx of displaced people following the recent attacks in Benue State, the EU has released €500,000 (approximately NGN 886,315,000) to meet the most urgent humanitarian needs. “This EU funding will support, for a period of six months, and in partnership with the IOM, efforts to implement activities in sectors such as protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as multi-purpose financial aid. “Escalating armed violence in Benue State, Nigeria, has displaced thousands of people, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. In June 2025, a wave of attacks forced almost 23,000 people to flee, many of whom had already been displaced in the past, triggering a cycle of heightened vulnerability.” The EU said the aid package will focus on protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene as well as multi-purpose cash assistance for affected populations. “Conditions inside the camps are dire. There is a severe lack of shelter for families, and inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Access to livelihoods remains precarious, while protection risks have increased considerably, particularly for women, children and people with disabilities, making the humanitarian response even more complex. “This latest wave of violence is part of a protracted humanitarian crisis that has been shaking the state of Benue since 2018. More than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes since 2018. The escalation of violence in 2024 and 2025 has already claimed some 6,900 lives and displaced more than 400,000 people, stressing the urgency of the situation”, the statement concluded. Punch  

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