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Court Approves ₦2 Billion Bail for Miyetti Allah President Bodejo

July 20, 2026 by admin

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday granted bail to the National President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Bello Bodejo, in the sum of ₦2 billion as he continues to face trial over an alleged $2.63 million money laundering case. Justice Inyang Ekwo granted the bail after ruling on Bodejo’s application, holding that the offences with which he was charged were bailable and that the court had the discretion to admit him to bail. The judge ordered the defendant to produce one surety in like sum. He held that the surety must be resident in Abuja and possess a three-year tax clearance certificate. Justice Ekwo further ordered that the surety must own landed property worth ₦2bn in Abuja, adding that the title documents would be verified by the court registrar. The judge also directed Bodejo to deposit his international passport with the registrar of the court, and barred him from travelling outside Nigeria without the court’s permission. He adjourned the case until October 5, 6 and 7, 2026, for the commencement of trial. Bodejo was arraigned on July 9 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on a multi-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering involving about $2.63m. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges. Following his arraignment, the prosecution counsel, Wahab Shittu (SAN), applied for a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant in the custody of the EFCC. However, counsel for the defendant, Ahmed Raji (SAN), informed the court that he had filed a bail application dated and filed on June 30. Raji argued that the offences alleged against his client were bailable under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and urged the court to grant the application. Shittu opposed the application, urging the court to refuse bail. In one of the counts, the EFCC alleged that Bodejo, “on or about January 11, 2022, in Abuja… accepted a cash payment of $100,000 from a former Accountant-General of Bauchi State, Sa’idu Abubakar, without lawful authority…” and outside the banking system, contrary to the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended). The anti-graft agency alleged that the transaction exceeded the statutory cash transaction threshold of ₦5m prescribed by law. The commission also accused Bodejo of accepting additional cash payments of $200,000, $100,000, $980,000, $750,000 and $500,000 from Abubakar on different dates between 2022 and 2024, allegedly in breach of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended), and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The EFCC alleged that the transactions, which were not routed through financial institutions as required by law, formed the basis of the charges against the Miyetti Allah leader. Bodejo has denied the allegations.

Oyo Approves N5.8b For Circular Road Property Owners

April 22, 2026 by admin

IBADAN — THE Oyo State Executive Council meeting, chaired by the State Governor, has approved compensation for over 900 property owners whose lands were affected by the ongoing construction of the Ibadan Circular Road In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, a total of N5,813,000,000 (Five Billion, Eight hundred and Thirteen Million Naira) will be paid to these categories of people. The Council noted that the compensation will not only put a stop to the agitation and misinformation surrounding this laudable project, but will also pave the way for accelerated planning and development, foster investors’ confidence, and bring to reality the vision of a transformed urban development of Ibadan and Oyo State as conceived by Governor Seyi Makinde. The Council recalled that over N800,000,000 (Eight Hundred Million Naira) had earlier been paid in the first phase as compensation for displaced persons in the past 18 months According to the Information Commissioner, Oyo State is one of the few states in the Federation that has continued to support the masses since the removal of the fuel subsidy The introduction of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER), set up by the State Government since 2023, has positively impacted the lives of the masses through interventions such as food relief/palliatives, health insurance, MSME support, and transportation The Council also approved the sum of N710,382,000 (Seven Hundred and Ten Million, Three Hundred and Eighty- Two Thousand Naira) to cover transportation subsidy for the period between March and August 2026. Prince Dotun Oyelade recalled that last year alone, over 4 million commuters, including pensioners, students, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, benefited from between 50 and 100 percent transportation subsidies in the State. The State Executive Council noted the strategic importance of the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Okaka Junction–Otu–Igbeti–Kishi road and the construction of bridges over the Otu and Ofiki rivers at a cost of N26,482,664,000 (Twenty-Six Billion, Four Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Sixty-Four thousand naira) Council also approved the expansion of this project by N3,981,431,000 (Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Eighty-One Million, Four Hundred and Thirty-One Thousand Naira) According to the Information Commissioner, Council further approved the completion of the Oyo State Christian Wing multipurpose hall, which was initiated over 25 years ago during the administration of Governor Lam Adesina He said that the completion will cost N126,912,000 (One Hundred and Twenty-Six Million, Nine Hundred and Twelve Thousand Naira) Prince Oyelade added further that In continuation of the Administration’s belief in entrenching the State’s culture and expanding it’s global potentials, Council approved the hosting of the Year 2026 Oyo state International Tourism Summit, stressing that the Council believed that the approval will consolidate the huge successes recorded in previous editions.

FIFA Approves Okonkwo’s International Switch from England to Nigeria

April 7, 2026 by admin

The International Federation of Association Football has officially confirmed goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s change of international allegiance from England to Nigeria, making the 24-year-old Wrexham shot-stopper eligible to represent the Super Eagles. The approval was documented on FIFA’s Change of Association platform on April 6, 2026. Checks by PUNCH Online on Tuesday show Okonkwo’s new national association listed as the Nigeria Football Federation on the FIFA website, replacing his former allegiance, The Football Association Ltd of England. Born on September 9, 2001, in Camden, London, to Nigerian (Igbo) parents, Okonkwo stands at 1.98–1.99m tall and began his career in Arsenal’s academy at age eight. He represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, featuring for the U-15, U-16, U-17 and U-18 teams. But he has never featured for the senior Three Lions team, clearing the path for the switch under FIFA eligibility rules. Okonkwo is currently the first-choice goalkeeper for Wrexham in the EFL Championship following a permanent move from Arsenal. He has impressed this season with consistent performances and key saves, helping the club compete in the second tier of English football. His form has drawn attention as a potential high-quality addition to Nigeria’s goalkeeping options. The switch followed discussions with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year. However, administrative procedures ruled him out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Okonkwo’s move adds depth to the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping options, which currently include Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye.

Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request to Deploy Troops in Benin

December 9, 2025 by admin

The Senate has given its approval for President Bola Tinubu’s request to send Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of efforts to help restore calm and stability after last weekend’s attempted military takeover. The endorsement was announced on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, following a review of the president’s letter in the Committee of the Whole, in accordance with Section 5, Part II of the Constitution, Channels reports. Lawmakers voted unanimously to support the deployment, effectively granting parliamentary authorisation for the regional security mission. Akpabio hailed the resolution as timely, stressing that unrest in any neighbouring country could easily destabilise the wider region. “An injury to one is an injury to all,” he stated. He added that Nigeria has an obligation to stand with its partners under the Economic Community of West African States framework. The Senate is expected to immediately forward its formal approval to Tinubu. Tinubu, in his letter to the upper chamber, had requested permission for the deployment, noting that Nigeria bears a historic responsibility to assist Benin under existing ECOWAS security arrangements. He warned that the situation requires “urgent external intervention” to prevent further deterioration. The attempted coup in Benin occurred on Sunday when a faction of soldiers identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation” appeared on national television to declare that they had resolved that “Mr Patrice Talon is removed from office as president of the republic”. The move was swiftly contained, as Benin’s loyal military forces pushed back and reclaimed control. “The regular army is regaining control. The city (Cotonou) and the country are completely secure. It’s just a matter of time before everything returns to normal. The clean-up is progressing well,” sources close to Talon said. Following the failed takeover, ECOWAS announced plans to deploy its standby force. “After consultation among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, the Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect,” the bloc stated. “The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and the Republic of Ghana. “The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin”

Oyo Govt Approves Homegrown Scheme Of Service For Community Nursing, Midwifery Cadres

July 19, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State Government has approved a Homegrown Scheme of Service for Community Nursing Superintendent and Midwifery cadres, covering Grade Levels 06 to 14, within the state’s civil/public service. This new scheme is designed to standardize career progression and improve the quality of care provided by these essential healthcare professionals. The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, who affirmed that the approval is a testament to the government’s commitment to strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery and professionalizing the roles of frontline health workers. The approved cadres will be reflected in the 2025 Establishments Estimate of relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the state civil and public service. This inclusion is aimed at ensuring proper recognition, budgeting, and deployment of personnel under the new structure. According to Prof. Adelabu, the newly approved Homegrown Scheme of Service outlines a structured career path, with clearly defined duties, qualifications, and promotional prospects for officers in the community nursing and midwifery cadres. He said it is designed to promote efficiency, job satisfaction, and long-term retention of trained healthcare professionals in the state. He further stated that the implementation is to commence immediately, with administrative coordination to be handled by relevant government agencies and departments. The government urges all officers within the newly structured cadres to embrace this development as a platform for renewed commitment, professional advancement, and enhanced service to the people of Oyo State.

Ondo Assembly Approves N96 Billion Supplementary Budget For 2024

October 24, 2024 by admin

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa recently forwarded to the lawmakers, a bill for a supplementary appropriation, increasing the initial N395billion 2024 budget to N487 billion. Aiyedatiwa had anchored his request for a supplementary budget on the effects of petrol subsidy removal and to enable implementation of N73, 000 minimum wage recently announced for the state’s workforce. The House of the Assembly in its discretion increased the governor’s proposal to N492billion, amounting to increase of N96billion. Speaking after submitting the report of the House’s Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, Owo 1/APC, said there was need for additional funds for target goals of the government. Ogunmolasuyi, the House Majority Leader and Chairman of the committee, said funds allocated to some government’s ministries, departments and agencies had been exhausted because of inflationary pressure on the signed 2024 budget. He added that the revised budget would give a clear expression for rapid development in the state.

BREAKING: State Governor Approves N85,000 As Minimum Wage

October 16, 2024 by admin

The governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwoolu has approved N85,000 as minimum wage for civil servants in the state. This is in line with the federal government’s approval of N70,000 as minimum wage in Nigeria. Governor Sanwoolu made this announcement on Channels TV this night in an interview session. Details later… (PUNCH)

Makinde Approves Recruitment Of Extension Officers, Vet Doctors

October 15, 2024 by admin

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has granted approval for the recruitment of agriculture extension officers and veterinary doctors. The governor, who announced the approval on Tuesday, said the recruitment exercise will cover the 33 local government areas of the state. This was as he also announced the setting up of model farm service centres across the zones and the purchase of motorcycles for Extension Officers for optimal delivery in the agric sector of the state. Governor Makinde made these known while inaugurating the Oyo State Seed Coordinating Committee at an event held at the House Chiefs, Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. Makinde, who was represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, noted that his administration recognises the importance of agriculture in driving economic growth, reducing poverty and boosting food production for the general well-being of residents of the state. He added that the governor has empowered farmers through various programmes under the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER), which was aimed at cushioning the effect of subsidy removal on petroleum products He explained that the relief programme, which started in November 2023, has seen the state distribute poultry feeds, fish feeds, piggery feeds, livestock feeds, disinfectants, insecticides, knapsack sprayers, bundles of cassava stems and fertilizers to farmers in addition to the vaccination of cattle against anthrax. He equally noted that the administration had made available the sum of N1 billion as soft agricultural loans to farmers in the state, among other benefits. According to Olasunkanmi, over 1,000 farmers in the state have benefitted from the 50 per cent tractorisation subsidy, with more than 6,000 acres of land ploughed for farmers, assuring that the tractorisation subsidy will continue in February 2025 to target 16,000 acres of land for the new farming season. Speaking on the resuscitation of the Oyo State Seed Coordinating Committee, the commissioner noted that the aim was to revitalise agricultural productivity in order to ensure food security and improve the livelihood of farmers, as they will have access to high quality and improved seeds, information and technologies for boosting productivity and sustaining food security in the state. The commissioner tasked members of the seed coordinating committee to discharge their duties and see to the boost in food production and agricultural yields. He added that the committee is a body of experts and researchers, who are expected to bring critical information to the notice of farmers in Oyo State, while Extension Officers will take the information down to the farmers in the rural communities. “The governor has graciously approved this new Committee to make it all-encompassing and with the objectives of seed multiplication extending to crop cultivation, livestock farming, agro-allied and other activities, which can affect agriculture positively. “Also, it aims at producing quality certified seeds, inputs for farmers and increase in farm machines through the participation and collaboration of the private sector. “So, as a member of this committee, you are hereby chosen for your expertise and dedication. Your role is crucial in enhancing seed quality both in crop and livestock production in improving fatness’s livelihood and promoting security. “You are to promote food security by increasing agricultural production. “Your committee has the liberty to co-opt experts from any other agencies of government in the local, state, federal, private, public, SMEs enterprises that have valuable contributions.” In his goodwill message, the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and member representing Ibarapa North/Central State Constituency in Oyo Assembly, Honourable Peter Ojedokun, commended Governor Makinde for his support to farmers. Also in their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman, All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria, AFAN, Oyo State chapter, Mr Adewumi Abbas and the representative of Baale Agbe in Oyo State, Chief Akande Moshood, lauded the governor for his commitment to the progress of farmers through numerous support programmes. Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Christiana Abioye said the committee, which comprises relevant stakeholders in the seed industry, is to plan and determine the state’s seeds requirement annually, encourage timely and effective seed distribution and other inputs to farmers.

Makinde Approves Conversion Of LG Ad-hoc Workers To Permanent Staff

October 2, 2024 by admin

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has given ad-hoc workers across local government areas in Oyo State a major boost by approving their conversion to permanent staff status. This exciting announcement was made during the commissioning ceremony of the local government house and staff training school at Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. Governor Makinde directed the Commissioner for Local Government to develop modalities for the conversion within four weeks, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring the welfare of local government workers 1. This move is part of the administration’s efforts to collaborate with local government administrations and deliver democracy dividends to the people. The commissioned building is a significant milestone, being the first modern building for the local government family. Governor Makinde emphasized that this achievement contradicts claims that his administration was destroying local government administration. Instead, it marks the beginning of renovations for structures in the Secretariat. This development is consistent with Governor Makinde’s track record of supporting civil servants. Previously, he approved the promotion of over 7,000 civil and public servants whose promotions were due in 2022. Additionally, his administration has reinstated workers unjustifiably relieved of their duties by the previous administration

Governor Makinde Approves New Appointments

September 9, 2024 by admin

By Adeleke Maria Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has made several new appointments The governor, who returned from a four-week annual leave on Monday, appointed Engr. Akin Akinleye as his Executive Assistant on Sports Development, while he also approved the appointments of members into three Boards. A letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi, indicated that members were appointed into the Boards of the Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Service, Oyo State Pension and the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State. The new appointees are as follows: Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Service Board: Mogaji Oladosu Ademola (Vice Chairman, Oyo South); Hon. Akinsola Ismael (Member, Oyo South); Mrs Oluwakemi Roseline Alabi (Member, Oyo North); Alhaji Mojeed Agbaje (Member, Oyo North); Oladipupo Christiana Oluwarinu (Member, Oyo Central); and Mr Oyegbami Oyewale (Member, Oyo Central). The new appointees into the Oyo State Pension Board are: Hon. Oluwatubosun Babarinde (Member, Oyo Central) and Adeniyi Busola Esther (Member, Oyo South). The governor also appointed the trio of Engr. Mudasiru Busari (Member, Oyo North); Ajao Ibrahim Akinsanmi (Member, Oyo Central) and Prince Olumuyiwa Akinbiyi (Member, Oyo South) to the Board of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State. All the appointments are with immediate effect.