A Message to the Youths of Oyo State By Chief Hon. Olayinka Segelu — PDP Governorship Hopeful

A Message to the Youths of Oyo State  By Chief Hon. Olayinka Segelu — PDP Governorship Hopeful

My dear brothers and sisters of OYO STATE PDP YOUTH, I have heard the concerns, frustrations, and honest feelings expressed by our youths — and I understand them. But let us also remember something important: Governor Seyi Makinde is human, just like every one of us. Leadership is never easy, and running a state as dynamic as Oyo comes with challenges that most people cannot see from the outside. His Excellency has done his best to move Oyo State forward — from infrastructure to education, from workers’ welfare to rural development. No leader can get everything right at once, but Governor Makinde has proven that he listens and adjusts when the people speak. To my fellow youths, I say this: this is our time to build bridges, not burn them. Constructive dialogue will open more doors than anger or division. Let’s channel our energy toward unity, innovation, and positive engagement. I am confident that as we continue to work together — youth and elders, government and grassroots — more opportunities will open up for everyone across our 33 local governments: from Ibadan to Ogbomoso, from Oke-Ogun to Oyo, from Ibarapa to Lagelu. Let us keep faith with the PDP family. Let us continue to support the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde, while contributing our ideas and commitment to make Oyo State even greater. Together, we can move from frustration to fulfillment — not by fighting our own, but by standing united for progress. Chief Olayinka Segelu PDP Governorship Hopeful, Oyo State

Bauchi gov elevates brother to first-class emir.

Bauchi gov elevates brother to first-class emir.

  Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has elevated his elder brother, the traditional ruler of Duguri, Adamu Duguri, to the status of a first-class emir. The letter confirming the elevation was presented to the new Emir on Friday at his palace in Duguri village, Alkaleri Local Government Area, by the Secretary to the State Government, Aminu Hammayo. While presenting the letter, Hammayo reminded the emir of the need to discharge his duties in accordance with the Constitution as well as the Bauchi State Chieftaincy Law 2025 and other relevant laws. He tasked the royal father to be vigilant and adhere strictly to administrative rules and regulations issued by the state government from time to time. He said, “The governor directed us to advise you to rule the people in fairness, justice and without ethno-religious differences. “Your focus should be on unity and peaceful coexistence of the people in the emirate.” He added that the state government prayed for a successful and peaceful reign for the newly appointed emir. In his acceptance speech, Emir Adamu Duguri thanked the governor for the honour done to his family, describing the elevation as the fulfilment of a long-awaited dream. “Today, history has been made, our dream has been realised. Our forefathers dreamt of this day, and we are grateful to Allah that we are alive to witness this great and historic moment,” he said. The monarch appealed for continued support for the state government as it works to improve the living conditions of the people. He commended the Mohammed-led administration for promoting peace and unity, as well as initiating developmental projects across the state. Before his elevation, Duguri was the District Head of Duguri under the Bauchi Emirate Council. He was elevated among the 13 new emirates created recently. Following the presentation of the appointment letter, he was immediately turbaned and will henceforth be addressed as Emir Adamu III.

Borno Gov Warns of Possible Sabotage after Boko Haram Drone Attack

Borno Gov Warns of Possible Sabotage after Boko Haram Drone Attack

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has expressed shock over the use of drones by Boko Haram terrorists to attack soldiers, saying that despite well-circulated intelligence that the Mafa area of the state would be attacked, troops could not prevent it from happening. Zulum disclosed this on Friday in Mafa town when he paid a post-assessment visit to areas attacked by Boko Haram in the early hours of Thursday. The governor, while briefing newsmen, expressed his grave concern over the emergence of this new threat, stating that the successful use of a drone by the terrorists to target a key military asset exposes a critical vulnerability in Nigeria’s airspace security. He said, “Honestly speaking, we have credible intelligence that Mafa will be attacked, and it has been duly circulated to all relevant authorities. I believe there is a need for us to come together, including the state and federal governments, as well as the military high command, to identify the gaps and address them directly.” “I believe there might be sabotage within that has to be identified and addressed. We don’t have to blame each other; we have to come together and resolve this situation,” the governor stated. Speaking on the drone use, the governor said, “One thing I want to comment on is the issue of drones. This is frightening. In Dikwa, I was told drones were used. The proliferation of drones, particularly in the hands of non-state actors, is of great concern for the entire country. We have to do something to stop the rampant use of armed drones,” Zulum said. The governor stressed that the incident is not just a concern for Borno State but a direct threat to national security. He called on the Federal Government to conduct an immediate and comprehensive review of the nation’s air safety and defence mechanisms. “Our borders need to be strengthened and our airspace needs to be strengthened as well. This is something that we need to address urgently; this is not an issue confined to Borno alone. This is the right time for the security architecture to thoroughly look into strengthening the capability of our airspace to curtail the use of armed drones by terrorists,” he said. While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces, Zulum also urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information on suspicious activities in their neighbourhoods. He said, “We are here to commiserate with the victims over what happened yesterday and build the confidence of our people.” The governor added, “I urge the community to be vigilant and report credible information to the Nigerian Armed Forces. The members of the CJTF should also be resilient enough to complement the effort of the Army.” PUNCH had reported that troops of Operation Hadin Kai killed more than 50 terrorists and repelled multiple coordinated attacks on military locations across Borno and Yobe States on Thursday. The Nigerian military said the simultaneous attacks occurred between midnight and 0400 hours on Thursday when terrorists launched assaults on troops’ positions in Dikwa, Mafa, Gajibo and Katarko, situated within Sectors 1 and 2 of the Joint Operations Area. The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East (OPHK), Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, in a statement on Thursday in Maiduguri, said the troops fought gallantly and professionally, repelling the attacks and inflicting devastating losses on the terrorists. The statement reads: “Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) with renewed vigour successfully defeated terrorist attacks on multiple locations across the Joint Operations Area in the early hours of today, October 23, 2025. “Between midnight and 0400 hours, the terrorists launched coordinated assaults on troops’ positions in Dikwa, Mafa, Gajibo, and Katarko, situated in Sector 1 (Borno State) and Sector 2 (Yobe State) respectively,” he said. “The combined ground and air efforts resulted in the neutralisation of over 50 terrorists across all the locations,” he said.

BREAKING: Tinubu Sacks Chief of Defence Staff, Musa, Others

BREAKING: Tinubu Sacks Chief of Defence Staff, Musa, Others

  President Bola Tinubu has made changes in the hierarchy of the Service Chiefs. This is “in furtherance of the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen the national security architecture,” a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, read Friday. The statement is titled ‘Tinubu changes service chiefs.’ According to Dare, the President appointed General Olufemi Oluyede to replace General Christopher Musa as the new Chief of Defence Staff. “The new Chief of Army Staff is Major-General W. Shaibu. Air Vice Marshall S.K Aneke is Chief of Air Staff, while Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff. Chief of Defence Intelligence Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye retains his position. “The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses most profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership,” the statement further read. Tinubu charged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them by further enhancing the professionalism, vigilance and comradeship that define Nigeria’s Armed Forces. All appointments take immediate effect. Details shortly…

La Liga: ‘I am Enjoying Football at Barca’, Rashford Eyes Permanent Move

La Liga: ‘I am Enjoying Football at Barca’, Rashford Eyes Permanent Move

  England winger Marcus Rashford has said he is enjoying his time at Barcelona as the Catalan club hold an option to make his move permanent for £28 million, a reduced fee compared with the £40 million United would demand from other potential buyers. Despite being under contract at Old Trafford until 2028, Rashford appears to have no future with the club while Ruben Amorim remains in charge. According to BBC Sports on Friday, the 27-year-old’s contract with United runs to 2028. “I’m enjoying this football club, and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player, it is an honour. “When asked if he wanted to stay in Spain, he replied, “For sure, he told ESPN. Rashford spent the second half of last season at Aston Villa, where his career was revived under Unai Emery. He took his goals tally to five in 12 games for Barcelona thanks to a double against Olympiakos in the Champions League on Tuesday. Rashford, who is set to play in his first El Clásico against Real Madrid this weekend, believes he is benefiting from a change of scenery. “People forget this, but 23 years of my life was with Manchester United. So sometimes you just need a change. I think maybe this is the case with me, and I’m enjoying everything,” he said.  

Niger Gov Donates N1m Each to Families of Tanker Explosion Victims

Niger Gov Donates N1m Each to Families of Tanker Explosion Victims

The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has announced a donation of ₦1 million to each family of the deceased victims and ₦500,000 to each of the injured survivors of the recent tanker explosion in Essa, Katcha Local Government Area. Bago made the announcement on Thursday during a condolence visit to the affected community, where he conducted an on-the-spot assessment and met with local leaders and residents. This is contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, on Thursday night. The tragic incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. on Tuesday, when fire ignited and overpowered residents scooping petrol from a fallen tanker, along the Bida–Badegi–Agaie road. The Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Authority, Abdullahi Arah, confirmed that the death toll from the petrol tanker explosion rose to 42. Arah, who spoke on ARISE News, attributed the tragic incident to the poor condition of the road and the high temperature in the area, which he said contributed to the ignition of the fire. “As of the last count, the total number of dead stands at 42, and the number of injured persons is 52,” Arah said. Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, the governor prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment in hospitals in Bida and Abuja. He condemned the act of residents scooping fuel from fallen tankers, describing it as both dangerous and criminal. “We came to commiserate with them over loss of lives and to also talk to their conscience. “It is a terrible thing that a truck will fall and people of the community will carry containers to scoop fuel. It is theft and must be addressed as such, and we can’t encourage it,” he warned. Bago also “announced a donation of N1m to families of each of the deceased victims and N500,000 to each of the injured victims receiving treatment.” While acknowledging that poor road conditions contributed to the tragedy, he urged residents to act responsibly and assist in rescue efforts during such emergencies rather than endanger their lives. The governor also revealed that business mogul, Aliko Dangote, had pledged to repair the Mokwa–Lambata Road, with work expected to commence soon. “The state government will build a new primary healthcare center in Essa Community to cater for their health needs,” the statement added.

Safeguard Nigeria’s Electoral Integrity, Tinubu Urges New INEC Chair

Safeguard Nigeria’s Electoral Integrity, Tinubu Urges New INEC Chair

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday urged the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan, to defend the integrity of Nigeria’s elections, describing credible polls as the bedrock of any democracy. Speaking at the State House in Abuja shortly after administering the oath of office to the new INEC boss, Tinubu said Amupitan’s appointment, confirmed by the Senate a week ago, was a mark of confidence in his competence and character by both the executive and legislative arms of government. “I, therefore, urge you, Professor Amupitan, as you take on this assignment, to protect the integrity of our elections and the electoral process and the institutional capacity of INEC, and I wish you success on your first assignment in November 2025, which is the governorship election of Anambra state. “As the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, your nomination and confirmation are a testament to your capacity and the confidence reposed in you. “This marks the beginning of a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibilities with the highest level of integrity, dedication, and patriotism,” Tinubu said. The President emphasised that Nigeria’s democracy, which has lasted since 1999, had evolved through reforms, innovation, and lessons learned from past challenges. “Our democracy has come a long way. We have consolidated and strengthened our democratic institutions, particularly our electoral system. To ensure that our democracy continues to flourish, the integrity of our electoral system must be beyond reproach,” Tinubu noted. Tinubu noted that while no electoral system is flawless, credibility and transparency at every stage, be it registration, campaigning, voting, and results collation, remain critical to sustaining public trust. “Elections safeguard the people’s exclusive right to choose their leaders and shape their future. “We must consistently improve our electoral process, addressing the challenges of yesterday and innovating for today and tomorrow,” he added. Tinubu urged Amupitan to prioritise transparency, inclusivity, and non-violence in future polls.

BREAKING: Police Arrest Sowore in Court

BREAKING: Police Arrest Sowore in Court

  Activist and publisher, Mr Omoyele Sowore, was on Thursday arrested within the premises of the Federal High Court in Abuja by armed policemen, shortly after he appeared in solidarity with the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. Sowore, who has been at the forefront of calls for Kanu’s release from detention, was picked up by security operatives who insisted that he must come with them to the Federal Capital Territory Police Command. When asked what his offence was, one of the officers explained that they were acting on the instruction of the Commissioner of Police. “The Commissioner of Police said we should bring you to the office,” the officer said. Although Sowore queried the absence of a formal letter of invitation, he maintained that his lawyer must accompany him before he was eventually taken away in a police van. Confirming Sowore’s arrest in a post via his X handle, human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, described the move as “preposterous” He wrote, “The arrest of Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court in Abuja moments ago is preposterous. “The police and the Tinubu regime are making a mockery of our judicial system.He should be freed immediately. Stop the shenanigans.” Sowore had on Monday, October 20, led a protest in Abuja — part of the #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstrations that spread to other parts of the country. During the protest, Kanu’s lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, his brother, Emmanuel Kanu, and ten others were arrested and subsequently remanded at Kuje Prison. In the First Information Report filed before a Chief Magistrates’ Court in Kuje, the police alleged that the defendants, during the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest — which it said was held in defiance of a court order — chanted war songs and disrupted the free flow of traffic. The police further alleged that they engaged in criminal conspiracy, incited disturbance, and caused a breach of public peace — offences said to be punishable under Sections 152, 114 and 113 of the Penal Code Law. “That on the 20th day of October 2025, you (1) Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, (2) Prince Emmanuel Kanu, (3) Joshua Emmanuel, (4) Bishop Wilson Anyalewechi, (5) Barrister Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, (6) Clinton Chimeneze, (7) Gabriel Joshua, (8) Isiaka Husseini, (9) Onyekachi Ferdinand, (10) Amadi Prince, (11) Edison Ojisom, and (12) Godwill Obiama, all male adults of the FCT, Abuja, were arrested by a team of security agents at various locations within the FCT for engaging in incitement, disturbance and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order, thereby disrupting the free movement of citizens while chanting war songs and demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who is undergoing lawful trial at the Federal High Court, in a manner that threatens national security. “You thereby committed the aforementioned offences.” The court has fixed Friday for the defendants to take their plea on the charge. More to come…

BREAKING: Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyers Withdraw from Case

BREAKING: Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyers Withdraw from Case

  Kanu Agabi, former Attorney-General of the Federation and lead counsel to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on Thursday, applied to withdraw his representation in the ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Kanu is facing trial on a seven-count charge bordering on terrorism, filed against him by the Federal Government. When the matter was called on Thursday, Agabi informed the court that he would no longer be representing the IPOB leader, adding that the defendant had decided to take back the case from them. In the same manner, all the Senior Advocates of Nigeria involved in the case also announced their withdrawal from the case. Kanu, confirming the development, told the court that he would be representing himself for now, but noted that the position might change later. The trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, asked whether he should assign a lawyer to represent him, but the defendant (Kanu) declined. Meanwhile, addressing the court orally to open his defence, Kanu argued that the court lacked jurisdiction to try him. Recall that Justice Omotosho, on October 16, granted the defendant six consecutive days, beginning from October 23, to open and close his defence in view of the accelerated hearing earlier granted in the case. Kanu had listed former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; a former Chief of Army Staff, Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd); a former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), and others as part of his witnesses. More details later…

“Makinde’s Leadership Is What Nigeria Needs,His Humane Governance Restored My Faith in Politics” – Dr. Amuda Hafeez

“Makinde’s Leadership Is What Nigeria Needs,His Humane Governance Restored My Faith in Politics” – Dr. Amuda Hafeez

For Dr. Hafeez Amuda, representation goes far beyond holding public office, it is about active engagement, community-driven advocacy, and selfless service. In this interview with Citybuzznews, the entrepreneur and philanthropist shares insights into his journey from private sector to politics, his foundation’s impact, and why he believes Governor Seyi Makinde’s style of governance is the template Nigeria needs. Excerpts: Can we meet you? Tell us about your educational and professional background? I am Hafeez Amuda — a visionary professional, entrepreneur, and advocate for community development, with a strong academic and leadership track record. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), a Master’s degree from Jaipur National University, India, and a Doctorate degree from Prowess University, Delaware, USA. Currently, I am concluding another degree at Lead City University, Ibadan. Beyond academics, I am a Peace Ambassador with the Federation of International Peace and Love Ambassadors (FEPIA) and also an Ambassador of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). These recognitions reflect my commitment to peace building, youth empowerment, and humanitarian service. Over the years, I have applied my knowledge and experience across key sectors, particularly healthcare, entrepreneurship, and social impact — with a consistent vision to inspire progress, promote well-being, and foster sustainable development. You’ve been known for philanthropy through your foundation. Why are you joining politics now? For me, politics is not a sudden shift, it’s a natural extension of service. My entry into politics was inspired by the leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, Governor of Oyo State. He has shown that leadership can be humane, transparent, and impact-driven. His governance restored my confidence in the political process, and I now see politics as a powerful tool for real transformation. Under his watch, Oyo State has witnessed unprecedented growth in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment. He leads without fanfare, yet the results are visible and impactful. What sets him apart is his calm strength, listening ear, and sincere commitment to public service. To many of us, Governor Makinde is more than a state leader, he is a national asset. His leadership style is what Nigeria desperately needs: one rooted in competence, compassion, and integrity. Through my foundation, I’ve witnessed the everyday struggles of our people, from healthcare and education to youth development, I’ve also seen how sincere leadership, like Governor Makinde’s, can turn these challenges into opportunities. That’s what motivates me to take my service to the next level and contribute more through public office. Tell us about your foundation and its activities? The Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation was established out of a deep passion to uplift lives, particularly young people and underserved communities. Over the years, we’ve carried out impactful programs in healthcare awareness, drug abuse prevention, youth empowerment, and community development across various parts of Oyo State. Our mission is to complement government efforts by promoting a healthier, more informed, and self-reliant society. Governor Makinde’s people-oriented policies have shown that when government leads with sincerity, NGOs like ours can easily partner to drive grassroots development. What’s your political ambition come 2027, and on which platform do you plan to contest? By the grace of God and the will of the people, I am offering myself to serve as member, Oyo State House of Assembly, representing Akinyele Constituency I in the 2027 general elections under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This decision is rooted in a desire for purposeful and compassionate representation, inspired by Governor Makinde’s transformational governance. As a loyal PDP member and a believer in his vision, I’m determined to carry his model of inclusive governance to the grassroots level, ensuring that the voices of Akinyele people are heard and their needs prioritized. Some PDP governors recently defected to the ruling party. What’s your stance on these developments? Defections are not new in Nigerian politics, but what truly matters is loyalty, conviction, and purpose. My loyalty to the PDP remains absolute. Under Governor Makinde’s leadership, the PDP has gained credibility and trust. While some may leave for personal gain, many of us remain committed to the party’s philosophy of development, inclusiveness, and genuine service. Our focus going into 2027 is not on those leaving, but on consolidating unity among those who share the PDP vision of a greater Oyo State and Nigeria. What are the chances of you emerging as the PDP candidate for Akinyele Constituency I in 2027? I am optimistic. More than just being a candidate, I am presenting a 10-Point Development Agenda that mirrors Governor Makinde’s legacy of good governance. This agenda focuses on, youth empowerment, accessible healthcare, quality education, women inclusion, security, agriculture development, small business support, Infrastructure,transparency and community engagement. With unity and sincerity of purpose, I believe our message will resonate strongly and we will earn the trust of the party and the people. Finally, do you believe Governor Makinde should contest for the presidency in 2027? Absolutely. Governor Makinde’s leadership represents what Nigeria urgently needs — vision, competence, unity, and integrity. His humility, patriotism, and proven track record make him a credible candidate for national leadership. We strongly believe that if given the opportunity, he will replicate the success of Oyo State at the national level. Nigeria deserves a leader like Governor Seyi Makinde — one who can heal divisions, restore trust, and move the country forward.