We’ll Keep Religion From Tearing Oyo Apart – Makinde

by

  The Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde on Wednesday assured residents of Oyo State that religion would not be allowed to create division, stressing that the people remain united and will continue to stand as one. He gave this assurance while bidding farewell to pilgrims intending to perform the 2026 Hajj at the state Hajj Camp, Olodo in Ibadan, the state capital. The governor urged the intending pilgrims to pray for God’s guidance in choosing the next set of leaders, who would continue where his administration stops in 2027. Makinde equally tasked the pilgrims to use the opportunity of their pilgrimage to the Holy Land to pray for both the state and Nigeria as the electioneering period approaches. He also enjoined them to be good ambassadors of the state. “In Oyo State, we are all one. We won’t allow religion to divide us. I charge the intending pilgrims to pray for our state and country when they get to the Holy Land, because this is the period leading to the next election, and a new set of leaders will emerge. “Whatever decision we make, we will have to live with it for the next four years. So, I want you to pray for our state and country. There is a lot of discussion going on right now on the choice of who would become the next governor. The conversation going on is about a Muslim being my successor, but I want you to pray that God should choose the person who would sustain the achievements and the good works we are doing in the state. “What matters most is that we must stay united. The progress of Oyo is what is important to us, and I believe God will answer our prayers. “For us in this state, religion is not an issue. We have all religions in our various families, and we have always coexisted peacefully. So, I have told those talking about Muslim candidature that we should not be stampeded into taking decisions on the basis of religion, and I know they understand me.” The governor, while responding to some of the requests of the board, promised to complete the ongoing mosque construction and also donate a bus for the use of the board in the state and another bus for the ease of movement of the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia during Hajj. Commenting on how the state pilgrims have always been good ambassadors of the state, the governor said, “We have been extremely lucky in this state, because our pilgrims have always been different; they have always been good ambassadors of the state. “So, for the ease of the Hajj operations, I will give a new bus to the state pilgrims in the Holy land. I will also donate another one for the use of the board here. On this note, I want to congratulate the intending pilgrims and wish you a safe journey.” Makinde also used the occasion to commend the Chairman of the state Pilgrims Welfare Board, Wahab Atere, and members of the board for the successful planning and coordination of the 2026 Hajj operations. Earlier, Atere informed the gathering that 1,036 intending pilgrims would perform the Hajj rites from the state, appreciating Governor Makinde for his continuous support to the Muslim community and the board towards a smooth 2026 Hajj exercise. He explained that with the support of the governor, the state has secured the visas and befitting accommodations for all the intending pilgrims, who would be airlifted in batches starting from May 3, 2026. Also in their separate goodwill messages, the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal and former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, thanked the governor for his unwavering support to the Muslim Ummah, urging them to remain focused, be good ambassadors of the state and to perform the Hajj rites devotedly. Dignitaries at the event were the Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; President, the state Customary Court of Appeal, Tajudeen Abdulganiyu; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Bayo Lawal; PDP South-West Woman Leader, Bose Adedibu; Chairman, Ibadan Airport Upgrade, Bimbo Adekanmbi; state Chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Sikiru Sanda; Commissioners and other top government functionaries. Also in attendance were the Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of the State, Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere; Executive Secretary, Muslims in South-Western Nigeria, Wole Abass; Kamil Oloso; and members of the League of Imams and Alfas.

UCL: Saka on Bench, Madueke starts for Arsenal at Atletico Madrid

by

  Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has to make do with a place on the bench for his team’s Champions League semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, with Noni Madueke selected on the right flank. England international Saka returned from an Achilles tendon injury as a substitute as the Gunners beat Newcastle to go back top of the Premier League on Saturday. Viktor Gyokeres starts up front for Mikel Arteta’s side at the Metropolitano Stadium, with Kai Havertz out injured. Eberechi Eze is on the bench after a knock and Arteta has opted for Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing, over Leandro Trossard. Like Arsenal, Atletico Madrid have never won the Champions League and Diego Simeone’s side are back in the semi-finals after a nine-year absence. The Argentine coach opted for Ademola Lookman on the left wing after the Nigeria international recovered from a minor niggle. Marcos Llorente starts at right-back with veteran Koke paired with Johnny Cardoso in the centre of midfield. Veteran Antoine Griezmann leads the line for the Rojiblancos alongside Julian Alvarez, recently linked with Arsenal. The second leg will be played in London on Tuesday, May 5. Starting line-ups: Atletico Madrid (4-4-2) Jan Oblak; Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, David Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Koke (capt), Johnny Cardoso, Ademola Lookman; Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez Coach: Diego Simeone (ARG) Arsenal (4-3-3) David Raya; Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Piero Hincapie; Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard (capt); Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Martinelli Coach: Mikel Arteta (ESP) Referee: Danny Makkelie (NED) AFP

Gunmen Kill Pastor, Kidnap Worshippers in Ekiti Church Attack

by

  Gunmen on Tuesday night stormed a Christ Apostolic Church in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, located in Ilejemeje Local Government Area of Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting an unspecified number of worshippers. The attack, which occurred around 8.30 pm during a church programme, has thrown the community into panic, with residents expressing fears over rising insecurity in the area. Sources in the community said the assailants, who were armed and arrived in numbers, stormed the church located on the outskirts of the town, shot the pastor dead and whisked away several worshippers into a nearby forest. One of the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said efforts were ongoing to determine the exact number of abducted victims. “The invaders were many. They killed the pastor and took away some worshippers. We cannot say the number yet. Moves to collate those who are missing have begun. The community is in a panic mode for now,” the source said. Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the Ekiti State Police Command said it had launched a rescue operation to secure the release of the abducted victims. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Sunday Abutu, said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a thorough investigation and a manhunt for the perpetrators. “The Police in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps, the Agro Marshal, the Vigilantes and the local hunters have commenced an aggressive bush combing operations and a serious manhunt on the perpetrators in order to ensure the rescue of the victims and the arrest and prosecution of the culprits,” Abutu said. He added that the police were working to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest of those responsible. “The commissioner of Police calls for calm as necessary steps are currently being taken to salvage the situation and forestall recurrence. “Members of the public are charged to be security conscious, vigilant and promptly report any suspicious person or group of persons found within their environments to the police and other security agencies for necessary proactive actions,” he added. Abutu also advised religious leaders to notify the police before organising late-night gatherings to enable adequate security arrangements.

EPL: John Stones Announces Man City Departure After 10 Years

by

  England defender ,John Stones has confirmed he will depart Manchester City at the end of the season, drawing the curtain on his 10-year stint with the club. The 31-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, joined City from Everton in 2016 for £47.5 million and went on to become a key figure during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. During his time at the Etihad Stadium, Stones helped City secure multiple major honours, including six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, two FA Cups, and five League Cups. As reported by BBC Sport on Tuesday, reflecting on his journey, Stones said he had achieved everything he set out to accomplish at the club. “It has been my home for the past 10 years, and it will be my home for the rest of my life. “I lived all my dreams out and lifted all the things that I came here to achieve,” he said. Stones was one of the early signings under manager Pep Guardiola and credited him for playing a major role in his development. He evolved into a versatile defender under Guardiola, even stepping into midfield roles during key matches, including City’s 2023 Champions League triumph. Despite his success, Stones’ later years at City were affected by injuries, limiting his appearances in recent seasons. He featured sparingly in the current campaign but remained an experienced presence within the squad. Stones’ departure marks another significant change in the City squad as the club continues to evolve. He leaves as one of the most decorated defenders in the club’s history, having played a crucial role in their domestic and European dominance. With his exit confirmed, attention will now turn to his next destination as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.

BREAKING: Yayi Picks APC Governorship Forms

by

  The lawmaker representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has obtained the ₦50 million All Progressives Congress governorship nomination forms ahead of the 2027 Ogun State election. The forms were obtained on his behalf, signalling his entry into the race for the state’s top seat. The APC National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, on Tuesday in Abuja, declared the process open and presented the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to Adeola’s proxy. Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on Saturday, February 6, 2027. The commission also announced that party primaries, including the resolution of related disputes, will take place between April 23, 2026, and May 30, 2026. INEC further stated that campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while those for governorship and state assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026. More to come…  

Faleke Picks Presidential Forms for Tinubu

by

  The lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, James Faleke, has picked up the All Progressives Congress Expression of Interest and Nomination forms on behalf of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The APC National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, on Tuesday in Abuja, declared the process open and presented the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to Faleke, who also serves as the founder of the Tinubu Support Groups. Faleke’s collection and payment for the forms, valued at N100 million on behalf of the President, formally signal the commencement of Tinubu’s bid for re-election. The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on Saturday, February 6, 2027. The commission also announced that party primaries, including the resolution of related disputes, will run from April 23, 2026, to May 30, 2026. INEC further stated that campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while those for governorship and state assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026. More details later…

U.S. Mission Warns Nigerian Travellers Over Visa Overstays

by

  The United States Mission in Nigeria has renewed its appeal for adherence to travel regulations, cautioning that visa overstays by Nigerian travellers could negatively impact future applicants. In a statement shared obtained from its X handle on Monday, the mission stressed that compliance with U.S. immigration rules is essential to maintaining fair and open access for legitimate travellers. It noted that when individuals overstay their visas or violate entry conditions, it can negatively affect the perception of compliance among applicants from the same country, potentially influencing future visa decisions. “Visa overstays by Nigerian travellers can affect opportunities for their fellow citizens,” the advisory stated. “Strengthening compliance helps protect access for students, business travellers, and families who travel responsibly. The mission emphasised that many Nigerians travel to the United States for education, business, tourism, and family visits, and encouraged applicants to continue to respect visa conditions throughout their stay. It also warned that visa fraud and misuse of travel documentation remain serious concerns, urging the public to play a role in safeguarding the integrity of the system. Individuals with credible information about visa fraud were encouraged to report it directly to official consular fraud prevention channels via AbujaFPU@state.gov or LagosFPU@state.gov. The mission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting safe, legal, and orderly travel between Nigeria and the United States, while ensuring that those who comply with immigration laws are not disadvantaged by the actions of others.

Salah will get Fitting Liverpool Farewell Despite Injury, says Van Dijk

by

  Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is certain Mohamed Salah will get the send-off his glittering career deserves, even if injury prevents the Egyptian from playing again for the Reds. Salah, who will leave Anfield after nine years at the end of the season, was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Crystal Palace. Liverpool are awaiting the results of a scan to determine the extent of the problem, but with just four games of the campaign remaining, the 33-year-old may not feature again this season. “If you get injured at this stage of the season, especially in the situation he is in, there is only two more home games left for him. It’s a combination of feelings that go through your mind,” said Van Dijk. “He will get the send-off regardless. I don’t think that is the thing at this point, we shouldn’t think too far ahead. “Knowing Mo, he is a quick healer and with the right people around him, let’s see.” Salah has scored 257 goals in 440 appearances since his arrival in 2017, behind only Ian Rush and Roger Hunt in Liverpool’s list of leading goalscorers. The winger has been integral to the club’s rise back to the top of English and European football, winning the Champions League and two Premier League titles among a clutch of trophies. Salah also scooped the players’ player of the year award a record three times and was the Premier League’s top scorer on four occasions. AFP

Female Genital Mutilation has no Medical Benefit – NGO

by

  The Center for Health, Ethics, Law and Development has reiterated that female genital mutilation has no medical benefit and constitutes a serious violation of human rights, urging stronger enforcement of laws banning the practice in Nigeria. In a statement issued on Monday, the organisation condemned recent public remarks seen as endorsing the practice, warning that such narratives could undermine years of progress in the fight against gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. The Center for Health, Ethics, Law and Development has reiterated that female genital mutilation has no medical benefit and constitutes a serious violation of human rights, urging stronger enforcement of laws banning the practice in Nigeria. In a statement issued on Monday, the organisation condemned recent public remarks seen as endorsing the practice, warning that such narratives could undermine years of progress in the fight against gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. CHELD described Female genital mutilation as a globally recognised form of violence against women and girls, stressing that it carries severe health risks, including chronic pain, infections, childbirth complications, psychological trauma, and in some cases, death. The organisation emphasised that there is no medical justification for the practice, saying any claims suggesting otherwise are not supported by scientific or medical evidence. “FGM has no medical benefit and remains a violation of fundamental human rights. It exposes women and girls to lifelong physical and psychological harm,” CHELD stated. The group also pointed to Nigeria’s legal framework, noting that the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 criminalises FGM, with penalties for anyone who performs, assists, or encourages the act. It added that several states across the country have also enacted laws banning the practice.

Gunmen Abduct 23 Children in Kogi Orphanage Raid

by

  Armed men have kidnapped 23 pupils along with the wife of a school owner after attacking an orphanage and school complex in the Zariagi area of Lokoja, Kogi State. It was gathered that the incident, which occurred late Sunday, targeted a facility identified as Dahallukitab Group of Schools. Confirming the development in a statement on Monday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, said security operatives responded swiftly, leading to the rescue of 15 of the abducted pupils. The commissioner disclosed that the school was operating outside regulatory oversight. “The facility was operating illegally in a remote, bushy environment without registration with the State Government and without the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies,” Fanwo said. According to him, efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining eight victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack. “The Kogi State Government commends the gallantry, professionalism, and swift response of the Police and other security agencies for rising decisively to the occasion,” he added. Fanwo warned against operating schools and orphanages in isolated areas without proper authorisation, describing such practices as dangerous. “While the Government remains fully committed to ensuring the rescue of all victims, it is important to stress that the operation of orphanages, schools, and similar institutions in isolated and vulnerable locations, without proper registration and notification to relevant authorities, poses serious security risks, especially in the current security climate,” he said. The commissioner further urged operators to comply with safety regulations. “The Government strongly discourages such practices and reiterates the need for strict compliance with regulatory and safety protocols,” Fanwo said. “All operators of such facilities are advised to engage with appropriate government agencies to ensure proper oversight, security assessment, and protection.” The commissioner added that security agencies are working to bring the situation under control, noting that updates will be provided as operations continue. “The facility was operating illegally in a remote, bushy environment without registration with the State Government and without the knowledge of relevant authorities and security agencies,” Fanwo said. According to him, efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining eight victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack. “The Kogi State Government commends the gallantry, professionalism, and swift response of the Police and other security agencies for rising decisively to the occasion,” he added. Fanwo warned against operating schools and orphanages in isolated areas without proper authorisation, describing such practices as dangerous. “While the Government remains fully committed to ensuring the rescue of all victims, it is important to stress that the operation of orphanages, schools, and similar institutions in isolated and vulnerable locations, without proper registration and notification to relevant authorities, poses serious security risks, especially in the current security climate,” he said. The commissioner further urged operators to comply with safety regulations. “The Government strongly discourages such practices and reiterates the need for strict compliance with regulatory and safety protocols,” Fanwo said. “All operators of such facilities are advised to engage with appropriate government agencies to ensure proper oversight, security assessment, and protection.” The commissioner added that security agencies are working to bring the situation under control, noting that updates will be provided as operations continue.

Stay Informed. Stay Ahead

Get breaking news and top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Get the Morning Briefing

Tops stories from Nigeria delivered free to your inbox every day.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Your No 1 Trusted News Source 

Email info@citybuzz.com 

Web Citybuzznews.com

LEGAL

SECTIONS

©Copyright Citybuzz News. All rights reserved.