The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed on. Oodua News learnt that the monarch, who ascended the throne in July 2024, died in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, after spending a year on the throne. Details later…
IBADAN – In a moving demonstration of compassion and commitment to social responsibility, Ibadan-based Public Relations expert Olamide Adeniji chose to celebrate his June 24, 2025 birthday among inmates of the Agodi Correctional Center. Born in 1985, in Ibadan, South West Local Government Area of Oyo State, Olamide Adeniji is known for his annual tradition of sharing his birthday with the underprivileged, underscoring his belief in the inherent potential and dignity of all individuals. This year’s celebration, according to Olamide, an Information and Public Releations officer, will involve feeding about 200 inmates, donation of clothes, packs of soft drinks, and a variety of toiletries, all worth hundreds of thousands. “These donations are part of a sustained effort to improve living conditions within the facility,” Olamide said. According to Mr. Adeniji, his annual birthday celebration has attracted public interest not just for its charitable spirit, but also as a testament to the collective power of community support in fostering hope, reform, and positive transformation for those seeking a second chance at life. Olamide Adeniji, a senior officer in the Oyo state civil service, is a public speaker, a news editor, a social media influencer, and an event compere. He currently works as the media officer to the Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran and some other top government functionaries.
Ibadan Obas, Mogajis, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Baales, Ibadan Compounds Peace Initiatives (ICPI) and other stakeholders have commended Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, for his maturity and patriotic approach in handling the boundary dispute between Iwo and Ibadan in Ogburo community. Recall that the dispute, which has been ongoing, recently escalated, prompting the Oyo and Osun state governments to jointly call for peace and urge the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to finalize the demarcation process. A statement jointly signed by President of Ibadan Mogaji’s, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori and Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade praised Lawal’s leadership during a high-level meeting in zone 11, Osogbo, where he addressed stakeholders from both states. They appreciated his emphasis on peace and unity, noting that his approach reflects a deep understanding of the historical and cultural ties between the people of Oyo and Osun states. Lawal had urged all parties to avoid inflammatory statements and rumors that could incite violence or breed mistrust. According to the duo, Oyo State Deputy Governor’s efforts to promote peace and cooperation between the two states have been widely praised. Lawal approach has been seen as a positive step towards resolving the dispute and strengthening the relationship between Oyo and Osun states. The statement affirmed that all major federal activities like 2006 and or other Censors activities after the creation of Osun state indicate that Ogburo, Papa community were all counted as part of Oyo state “Also, Ogburo is always ward 11 unit 3 of Lagelu local government of Oyo state in federak elections held after the 1991 Osun state creation.”
There is no doubt that Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde is doing everything possible to expand the economy of the state, as this can be attested to by numerous infrastructural projects put in place to enhance ease of doing business for interested foreign and indigenous investors. One of the projects that Governor Makinde will be remembered for in the history of Oyo State is the upgrade of Ibadan Airport now known as Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport to international airport. This development is another win for Oyo State under the administration of Engr Seyi Makinde, and it is also historic in the aviation industry of the country. With the Federal government approval, Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of upgrading the Samuel Ladoke Akintola (SLA) airport Ibadan to an international airport is fast becoming a reality. Governor Makinde in September 2024 performed the ground breaking ceremony of the first phase for the upgrade of the airport to international status. This project comprises extension of the runway from 2,400 metres to 3,000 meters with a width increase from 45 meters to 60 meters. To express his commitments to the project, and also ensure transparency, Governor Makinde appointed a chieftain of All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state who was a former commissioner for Finance during the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi administration, Mr Bimbo Adekanbi as the Chairman of the committee for the SLA Airport Upgrade Project. Just last week, Governor Makinde commenced the second phase of the upgrade with a foundation laying ceremony of the new international terminal building. While the first phase would be completed by September this year, the second phase which is expected to span 18 months is in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of redefining the aviation landscape for opportunities that would engender growth and connectivity to the world. Speaking shortly after the foundation laying ceremony of the project, Mr. Bimbo Adekanbi gave an overview of the project and its viability, affirming that the effort is another giant leap forward and a crucial component of the airport upgrade plan. Adekanbi noted that the new Terminal Building, which will be constructed by Messrs Craneburg Construction Ltd, represented a major transformation and a testament to the unwavering vision and exceptional leadership of Governor Makinde. He maintained that the project is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, that it will ease the flow of passengers, boost the airports cargo handling capacity and position the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport as a top-tier facility in Nigeria. He said, “Today, we embark on a remarkable journey that will redefine the aviation landscape of this region, opening up new horizons of opportunity, growth, connectivity- the commencement of the construction of a new terminal building at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport. This event represents not only the start of a major transformation but also a testament to the unwavering vision and exceptional leadership of our Governor, His Excellency Engineer Seyi Makinde. “His Excellency has championed the development of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, not just as an infrastructural upgrade, but as a gateway to unlocking the immense economic potential of Oyo State and the entire Southwest region. His relentless pursuit of progress, coupled with his profound commitment to enhancing our state’s connectivity, is embodied in this grand project. “Governor Makinde’s foresight and dedication to ensuring a world-class facility for the people of Oyo State stand as an inspiring example of visionary governance. “His tireless work ethic and unwavering focus on sustainable development ensure that this airport will become a symbol of progress, prosperity, and pride for us all. The government had made tremendous progress in the first phase of the upgrade project, explaining that the state-of-the-art Terminal Building that will be delivered in the first quarter of 2026 will accommodate up to one million passengers annually, which is a massive increase from the current capacity of 100,000. “This initiative goes beyond just expanding capacity; it is about creating a modern, efficient, and world-class airport that enhances the overall travel experience while driving economic growth, attracting investments, and empowering the people of Oyo State. With Governor Seyi Makinde at the helm, the vision of a fully integrated, globally competitive airport is becoming a reality. “Oyo State Government remains steadfast in its dedication to improving infrastructure, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring sustainable development for all. Through projects like this, we are not only investing in physical structures but also in the future prosperity and well-being of our citizens. “With Governor Seyi Makinde leading the way, we are confident that the best is yet to come,” Adekanbi said. While conducting journalists and other stakeholders’ round the project, the Senior Manager, Craneburg Construction, Edmond Maalouf maintained that the project will be delivered on time, while the Site Engineer, Oliver Makhlouf, explained the success so far recorded on the upgrade of the airport runway. Speaking with journalists on the project, the Director of Engineering of the Federal Airport Authority (FAAN), Engr. Adejare Abiola, who represented the chairman of the organisation, lauded Governor Makinde for his efforts towards turning around the fortune of the Ibadan Airport. “We want to appreciate the Executive Governor of the state for what he has been doing. He has been supporting us. He has donated project vehicles for security patrol. Today again, he has fulfilled another promise and we, as FAAN, are ready to support him and the Airport. “I want to also thank the host community who have been good neighbours to us and, at the same time, appeal to them on the excavation that is ongoing around our perimeter fence. By the time the airport is completed, we have to invite the ICAA for certification, and some of the things they are going to look at include the safety and security of the airport. So, please, desist from excavating along our fence,” the FAAN chairman said. When completed, the SLA International Airport will boost economic activities in Oyo State and the entire South West especially in the area of … Read more
IBADAN – One yet to be identified Okada rider has reportedly lost his life while on his legitimate daily business routine around Osuntokun, Bodija Axis of Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital when an overspeeding Mercedes Saloon car rammed into a pharmacy store. The fatal accident occured around 2pm on Saturday afternoon at Osuntokun Junction Bodija, opposite Zenith Bank. The pharmacy store where the car rammed into was destroyed, while two other vehicles of customers parked in front of the pharmacy was also affected. According to an eyewitness who pleaded anonymity, said “An over speeding black Mercedes saloon car coming from Osuntokun Avenue, crossed the main Bodija-UI road and went headlong into the pharmacy near Grandex stores, instantly killing an okada rider who was dropping off his passenger at the pharmacy. “The driver of the Mercedes was severely injured and has been rushed to University College Hospital (UCH). “The body of the okada rider was retrieved inside the shop and taken to UCH morgue.” When contacted on phone, the Public Relations Officers of Oyo Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), promised to get back as soon as possible.
Adeleke Maria Two officers of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Oyedepo Samuel and Waheed Quadri, were assaulted by tricycle riders and hoodlums while performing their lawful duties. The Officers were recently attacked with iron rods, stones, and sticks at the Water Corporation gate Ibadan which inflicted severe injuries on them. According to eyewitnesses, the officers had apprehended a commercial tricycle parked on the road, obstructing traffic. However, while transporting the tricycle to the Agodi Gate command unit, they were ambushed by a group of tricycle riders and hoodlums. Fortunately, a good Samaritan intervened, rescuing the officers from the angry mob. The injured officers are currently receiving treatment at the State clinic, Secretariat, Ibadan. Speaking in Ibadan, the Chairman, OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.) said seven suspects were arrested in connection with incident. He condemned the attack, stating, “It’s a pity that our officers, who work tirelessly to ensure sanity and orderliness on our roads, are being assaulted and harmed.” Adesagba emphasized that the Authority will not be deterred from performing its legitimate duties. Major Adesagba assured that the perpetrators have been arrested and are currently in custody at Idi-Ape police station. “The perpetrators will face the full weight of the laws, Adekoya warned”, he said. Meanwhile, the suspects were arraigned at the Magistrate District Court 1, Ibadan North East, on Wednesday, on charges of assault. Each suspect was granted bail with one surety and a bond of ₦100,000. However, since they were unable to meet the bail conditions, they were remanded in Agodi Prison pending further hearing. The case was adjourned until November 17, 2024.
By Adeleke Maria No fewer than 43 suspected criminals were arrested and paraded at the Oyo State Police Command Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan on Friday. The suspects were paraded for their alleged involvements in armed robbery, cultism, rape, truck highjackers, among others. Briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters Eleyele Ibadan on behalf of the state police commissioner, CP Sonubi Oluyemi Ayodele, the state Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso noted that the Command has strategically improved on its engagement and feedback mechanism with key security stakeholders of the Command which includes the civil liberties organization, market forces, student groups, trado-religious institutions and the Police Community Relations Committee towards actualization of a safer and more peaceful Oyo State. Osifeso maintained that the paraded suspected criminals were arrested for crimes and offences including; Kidnapping, Armed Robbery, Murders, rape among others, while weapons such as (1) One Ak-47 rifles, (1) One locally made pistol, (1) One Cut-to-size locally made Extended Cartridge (N2,769,000) Two Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty-Nine Thousand Naira, One MAC Trailer, Vehicles, Motorcycle (1,130) one thousand, one hundred and thirty thousand pieces of cartons of adhesives, were recovered. While speaking on the case of the suspected armed robbery cum kidnapping, SP Osifeso said, “On 30TH August, 2024 at about 0120hrs, some suspected members of a dreaded armed robbery cum kidnapping syndicate who were reportedly armed with sophisticated firearms, cutlasses and some other dangerous weapons allegedly invaded a Herder Camp at Sepetri area of Oyo State.” “The armed gunmen who were allegedly identified by the victims as Nomadic cattle fired gunshots sporadically into the air and after they attacked the aforementioned members of the camp and equally disposed them of mobile phones, huge sums of money and some other valuable items at gun point, the suspects then proceeded to abduct victims and whisk them away to unknown locations where they contacted their respective family members to demand for ransom in the sum of Fifty Million Naira. “In furtherance of the payment operational, technical and intelligence assets were swiftly activated by the Command in concert with some members of a local vigilance groups in the community in a manhunt for the fleeing suspected Person and in the process, (2) two members of the armed robbery cum kidnapping syndicate who identified themselves as Faroq Usman ‘M’ and Aliu Babangida ‘M’ were arrested in connection with the crime. A cash sum of Two Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty-Nine Thousand Naira which was received by the (2) two suspects as their share from the ransom paid by the relatives of the victim was also recovered.” “Through questioning, the suspects confessed to the crime and series of similar armed robbery cum kidnapping attacks they had masterminded at various locations in Oyo State. Investigation continues as further progress, will be communicated.” Suspected armed robbery turn kidnappers are Faruq Usman, aged 28, Aliu Babangida, aged 30; while the sum of N2,769,000.00 only were recovered from the suspects. .
A group of protesters in Ibadan has taken to the streets, blocking Nigerian Army vehicles and urging military personnel to intervene in the country’s governance. Video footage that emerged on Thursday shows demonstrators calling for an end to the current administration under President Bola Tinubu. The unrest is fueled by rising discontent over the surging cost of living, particularly following recent hikes in fuel prices. Many Nigerians have expressed frustration over the resultant spike in commodity prices, which they say has made daily survival increasingly challenging. While some protesters claim that even the worst civilian government is preferable to a military dictatorship, many in Ibadan argue that the realities of their daily lives have reversed this sentiment. The protesters are demanding decisive action from military authorities, believing that a military government could provide a solution to the economic turmoil they are facing.
In September 2024, an anti-Female Genital Mutilation activist, Fatimah Olaitan Gbemisola, a Nigeria Registered Nurse-Midwife, and other activists and volunteers were attacked by hoodlums during a peaceful protest along the Government Secretariat Road, Ibadan. The thugs who were armed with sticks, cudgels, machetes and other dangerous weapons had descended on the unsuspecting group, chanting ‘ E pa Fatimah ati awon ti e’ (meaning ‘Kill Fatimah and her people’). Several of the activists and volunteers were injured, while few others were killed in the struggle. According to witnesses, aside of those that were killed, Fatimah was also brutally stabbed before she was whisked out of the immediate vicinity of attack by some of the volunteers and some good Samaritans who bundled her into the trunk of a passing car straight to the hospital and ensure her escape. In October 2024, Fatimah was also attacked at the premises of Fresh FM where she had gone to speak on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), forced early marriage, rights of the girl-child and what transpired at the protest of the previous month. Fatimah was snuggled out of the back of the radio station to escape the irate mob waiting for her at the entrance. Since that last narrow escape, Fatimah has been on the run. Her family has declared a black sheep, while traditionalists and other religious groups are out to deal decisively with her. Information from some close friends and fellow activists indicates Fatimah as at the time of filing this report she’s no where to be found.
By Adeleke Maria The Restanchor Total Child Parenting Foundation under the leadership of its founder, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, celebrated the 13th Annual Educational Support Program, held at the Kristas Resources Centre in Ibadan. The event welcomed orphans and vulnerable children from different schools in Oyo State who received educational materials, food, and clothing as part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to their well-being. In his welcome address, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, founder of the Restanchor Foundation, highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable children, offering not only educational resources but also emotional and psychological care. He highlighted this year’s theme, “Shunning Violence, Removing Depression for Greatness is Attainable for the vulnerable,” underscoring the urgency of equipping children with resilience in the face of adversity.“Greatness is attainable for every child, no matter the challenges they face,” he said. He further emphasized the foundation’s mission to provide comprehensive care for the most vulnerable. “We are deeply committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive, no matter the challenges they face,” Adefioye stated. Founded in 2006, Restanchor Foundation now supports over 3,000 vulnerable children with a focus on education, emotional care, and nutritional support. Pastor Adefioye praised the ongoing support from sponsors, including Her Excellency Mrs. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, who donated over a million naira worth of foodstuffs, and the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), which regularly sponsors the payment of exam fees for WAEC and NECO. The event was graced by prominent figures, including, Oyo State’s Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, who was represented by the Zonal Director Of Ibadan Zone 2 Education Office, WEMA Bank Area, Gbagi, Ibadan, Mrs Karunwi Maria Olufunke lauded the foundation’s impact. Adelabu emphasized that the state government takes the education and well-being of vulnerable children seriously, but also noted that philanthropic efforts, like those of Restanchor, are crucial to ensuring equitable education for all.He said, “I want to appreciate the Management and members of staff of this Foundation for making this day a reality where the less privileged and vulnerable people in our society are being celebrated, supported and made hopeful of living a meaningful life. “Without mincing words, what you are doing is great in the sight of the Lord and worth being highly appreciated because millions of young souls across the globe are withering and wailing in despair, finding no solace, no comfort, and no guardians to oversee them. Countless underprivileged orphans, abandoned and exploited, lead a life of solitude and helplessness with no one to guide them. Many of these orphans and vulnerable children are deprived of love, affection, and basic resources for survival. Once again, I appreciate the Visioner of this Foundation for the vision of providing a “better tomorrow” for these vulnerable ones. May the Almighty God reward you all. “I am pleased to inform this gathering at this auspicious occasion that the present administration in the State, under the leadership of His Excellence, Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, takes the affair of orphans, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable people with all the seriousness it deserves. “Support and education of vulnerable children as well as those with disabilities has always been accorded a place of pride by the State Government in terms of provision of teaching materials, manpower and financial support for special schools and homes in the State. “Oyo State is doing all these so that there can be equal educational opportunities to all her children without any bias or discrimination on the basis of their family background. Free and quality education is a right of every child. “However, demands in the education sector are so overhauling and capital intensive to the extent that no government can do it alone.Collaborative support from philanthropists and non-profit oriented NGOs like yours are welcome, if we are to record meaningful development in the sector. We therefore urge other individuals and NGO to borrow a leaf from this and partner with the State Government in raising education in Oyo State to an enviable standard. Adelabu stated. Similarly, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, praised the foundation’s work, emphasizing the importance of eliminating violence and depression in children’s lives. “It is our duty as a society to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to dream big and achieve greatness,” she stated. She further expressed her joy at witnessing the program’s success, reminding the children of their potential. “No matter the difficulties you face, there is greatness within you,” she told the beneficiaries. Mrs Toyin Balogun, who was ably represented by Mr Gbemileke Ojerinde Director Child Welfare at the Ministry commended Restanchor Foundation for their commitments towards the welfare of the vulnerable individuals in the society.She said, “I stand before you today with a heart full of joy and gratitude as we gather to celebrate the 13th Annual Educational Support Program for 620 orphans and vulnerable children. It is a great honor to be part of this noble initiative organized by RESTANCHOR Total Child Parenting Foundation, whose tireless efforts have uplifted the lives of countless children over the years. “The theme of this year’s event, “Shunning Violence, Removing Depression, for Greatness is Achievable for the Vulnerable,” speaks volumes about the challenges faced by these young ones and the collective responsibility we all share in ensuring that they are nurtured, protected, and given every opportunity to flourish.We must recognize that violence and depression are barriers that impede the full potential of vulnerable children. It is our duty as a society to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to dream big and achieve greatness. Violence in all its forms must be eradicated, whether it is physical, emotional, or psychological, for children to grow in an environment where love and care thrive. “To the 620 orphans and vulnerable children we celebrate today, I want to remind you that you are not alone. You are important, and your dreams matter. No matter the difficulties you may face, know … Read more
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