The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has appealed to the Federal Government to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu. Ayodele made the call while addressing members of his congregation in a video that surfaced online on Saturday. According to the cleric, if the government decides to continue Kanu’s detention, it should apply the same standard to other influential figures facing public scrutiny, including Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi. He urged the government to reconsider its stance, stating that releasing Kanu could help ease tensions and foster national unity. Primate Ayodele also expressed concern over growing public dissatisfaction, warning that unresolved grievances could trigger widespread protests and further heighten tensions across the country. The cleric called on the government to take proactive steps in addressing citizens’ concerns and strengthening national cohesion.
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has said that ending Nigeria’s security challenges ultimately requires divine intervention, alongside the collective efforts of citizens and security agencies.
Speaking on the persistent insecurity across the country, Matawalle urged Nigerians to continue supporting security operatives and praying for lasting peace, stressing that the issue should not be exploited for political advantage.
According to him, “Only God can bring an end to this insecurity, together with our collective prayers and efforts. It should not be used as a tool to condemn others or score political points.
”The minister noted that even some of the world’s most powerful nations have grappled with insecurity for years and are still confronting similar challenges.
He appealed to Nigerians to remain patient, prayerful, and supportive of ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies to restore peace and stability across the country.
Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido seized the global spotlight at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Los Angeles to spotlight the ongoing plight of abducted pupils and teachers from Oyo State, transforming his high-profile performance into a powerful advocacy moment for their safe return.
The singer took to the stage at the Crypto.com Arena wearing a customised black leather jacket emblazoned with the bold message “BRING THEM HOME,” which was covered extensively with green circular badges bearing the names of the abducted individuals, effectively turning his headline set into a visible call for action and awareness.
Images and videos shared by Davido himself displayed the names prominently across the jacket both before and during his performance, further amplified by the accompanying hashtag #BringThemHome that circulated widely on social media.
According to reports, the 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers invaded Community High School in the Ahoro-Esinele community within Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The assailants specifically targeted the school, abducting the group that included the school principal, in an incident that not only caused widespread fear but also resulted in the deaths of some school officials and a motorcyclist.This tragic event triggered national outrage, renewed demands for enhanced security around educational institutions, and prompted actions such as an indefinite strike by Oyo public school teachers seeking the release of their colleagues and students.
Davido’s symbolic outfit carried deeper meaning, as campaign organisers explained that the names of victims still believed to be in captivity were inscribed in white, while those who had lost their lives in the attack were marked in red.
By leveraging one of the most significant platforms tied to the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Afrobeats artist succeeded in drawing international attention to a domestic security crisis that has continued to evoke deep concern across Nigeria.
His gesture has sparked extensive discussions online, with numerous supporters commending the initiative for sustaining public focus on the abducted pupils and teachers at a time when such cases risk fading from headlines.
The abduction, which occurred amid broader challenges of insecurity in parts of the country, has kept families in anguish and highlighted vulnerabilities in school environments, particularly in rural areas.
Davido’s decision to use his platform in this manner underscores the role celebrities can play in advocacy, bridging entertainment with urgent social issues and pressuring authorities to intensify efforts toward the victims’ rescue.As the #BringThemHome campaign gains further traction through his visibility, it continues to urge stronger and more coordinated actions to secure the release of those still held hostage and facilitate their reunion with loved ones.
This high-visibility intervention at the FIFA-linked concert comes against the backdrop of Davido’s confirmed participation in the star-studded event, positioning him as a key cultural ambassador capable of commanding global audiences.
The move has not only amplified the voices of affected families in Oyo State but also contributed to keeping the narrative of school safety and anti-kidnapping measures alive in both local and international discourse.
As Nigerians and well-wishers alike rally behind the cause, the hope remains that sustained attention will translate into tangible progress toward resolving the abduction and preventing similar incidents in the future.
This proposed Tunde Diya Sports Arena (TDSA) is designed as a modern multi-sport and recreational complex that will serve as a hub for talent discovery, physical fitness, healthy living, and social interaction.
The facility will feature a standard 7-Aside Football Pitch with artificial turf, floodlights for night games, spectator stands, and competition-standard markings for tournaments and league matches.The arena will also house a fully equipped Table Tennis Section with professional tables for training and competitions, alongside a modern Boxing and Fitness Arena comprising a standard boxing ring, weightlifting equipment, strength and conditioning facilities, locker rooms, and changing areas.
These facilities are aimed at nurturing future champions and promoting grassroots sports development.
To enhance visitors’ experience, the complex will include an Open Bar and Refreshment Lounge, providing a comfortable environment for relaxation, networking, and entertainment. Additional facilities such as a reception area, modern restrooms, and a spacious parking lot will ensure convenience and accessibility for athletes, officials, and visitors.
The vision of the project is to establish similar Tunde Diya Sports Arena (TDSA) facilities across the various zones of Odogbolu Local Government, ensuring equitable access to quality sporting and recreational infrastructure, while promoting youth engagement, talent development, and community integration throughout the entire local government area.
🏆 *TDSA – WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE MADE AND COMMUNITIES UNITE.*⚽🥊🏓💪🏾
Comrade Otudero Seyi Oluwaseun
Chief Press Secretary
Office of the Executive Chairman__Odogbolu Local Government.
Eminent Nigerians Honour Oba Oguntayo On 30th Coronation, Donate Funds For Community Development
The grand finale of activities marking the 30th Coronation Anniversary of the Ajalorun of Ijebu-Ife, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo, FCA, JP, Ogbagba Agbaotewole, was held on Saturday at the Ajalorun Palace, with prominent personalities from across the country rallying support for the development of the ancient town.
The event, which marked the climax of a week-long celebration commemorating the monarch’s three decades on the throne, featured a fundraising gala for the proposed N1 billion Ijebu-Ife Legacy Development Projects and the relaunch of the book, Destined for the Throne.
Leading the list of donors was eminent Nigerians with massive donations towards the Ijebu-Ife Legacy Development Projects and others in Ijebu Ife community.
Among the prominent personalities present at the event were renowned insurance magnate, businessman, and philanthropist, Chief Kensington Adebutu, the Odole Oodua, who was represented by Aare Kola Oyefeso; Chief Olalajulo Bode Ogunlana, the Asiwaju of Ijebuland; Alhaji Dr. Sulaimon Adebola Adegunwa, represented by Dr. Tayo Lawal; Senator Lekan Mustapha; and Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu.
Also in attendance were Prince Bisi Olatilo; the Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government; the Vice Chairman of the Council, Hon. Adetutu Oyesanya; members of the Siwoniku Family; descendants of the Olufowobi Family; and several other distinguished sons and daughters of Ijebu-Ife, all of whom contributed to the success of the fundraising effort.
The celebration attracted an impressive array of traditional rulers from within and outside Ogun State, including the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, the Elese of Ilese Ijebu and the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta, among several other royal fathers.
A major highlight of the occasion was the relaunch of Destined for the Throne, a publication chronicling the life, leadership journey and accomplishments of Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo, as well as aspects of the history and development of Ijebu-Ife.
The anniversary celebration, themed “Three Decades of Impactful Royal Strides,” also featured colourful cultural displays, while legendary Juju maestro, Sir Shina Peters, thrilled guests with captivating performances that added colour, excitement and rich musical entertainment to the historic occasion.
Activities held during the week included an interfaith prayer session, an educational programme for pupils and students, a historical symposium titled “The Ajalorun of Ijebu-Ife: 1450 Till Date,” installation of chiefs and honorary title holders, the groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed New Ijebu-Ife Town Reserve Area, and the commissioning of a 40-computer ICT Centre at Christ Anglican Primary School.
Speaking earlier on the significance of the anniversary, Chairman of the Planning Committee and former Minister of State for Health, Senator Adeleke Olorunnimbe Mamora, described the reign of Oba Oguntayo as one characterised by peace, unity, cultural preservation, youth empowerment and community development.
He said the legacy development initiative was conceived to mobilise resources for strategic projects capable of transforming Ijebu-Ife and positioning the community for greater growth and prosperity in the years ahead.
For many participants, the grand finale represented not only a celebration of the monarch’s 30-year reign but also a renewed commitment to the unity, progress and sustainable development of Ijebu-Ife.
Following the recurring mysterious odour incidents affecting two girls’ schools in Ijebu-Ode, the SS3 students of Anglican Girls’ Grammar School who are currently sitting for their WAEC examinations have been relocated to Adeola Odutola College, Ijebu-Ode, to complete their exams.
At first glance, that sounds like a commendable step — and indeed, it is.
But what about the safety and well-being of the other students who remain at Anglican Girls’ Grammar School?
Are they expected to continue attending classes and living in constant fear of another occurrence?
How can students effectively concentrate on their studies under such conditions? Instead of focusing on their academic activities, many will be preoccupied with anxiety, wondering whether the odour will return again today.
This situation has gone beyond a mere inconvenience. It is now a matter of student safety, mental well-being, and the overall learning environment.
The Ogun State Government must intensify efforts to identify the source of these incidents and bring a permanent end to them. Parents, students, and residents deserve answers, and more importantly, they deserve lasting solutions.
Our children should be learning in classrooms, not living in fear.
Barcelona have been offered the chance to sign Victor Osimhen but have no interest in pursuing the Nigerian striker, with the Catalan club remaining firmly focused on landing Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez as their priority signing this summer.
According to Diario Sport, intermediaries approached Barcelona in recent days over a potential deal for the Galatasaray forward, but the club do not consider him part of their plans as they seek a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
The rejection does little to cool the broader interest surrounding Osimhen, who has attracted attention from virtually every major club in Europe heading into the summer window. Galatasaray assistant coach Ismael Garcia Gomez, speaking to Marca, offered an insight into why the queue of suitors keeps growing.
“We have very top-level players, but in my opinion, Osimhen is among the world’s top three to five strikers,” Garcia said.
“He possesses an extremely high level and impressive physical strength. He presses, he defends. In addition, he has the ability to influence the opposing defence even in moments when he is not heavily involved in the game.
”The numbers support that assessment. Since arriving in Istanbul initially on loan in 2024 before the move was made permanent last summer, Osimhen has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances across all competitions, delivering two league titles and a Turkish Cup to Galatasaray in the process.
Manchester United have identified the 27-year-old as a dream signing and are eyeing him as their main striker for next season.
Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation and could move should José Mourinho be appointed as their next head coach.
Atletico Madrid see him as a potential replacement if Alvarez departs, which would also set up a reunion with Super Eagles teammate Ademola Lookman. Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal and Chelsea have all also expressed interest, and Galatasaray’s resolve could be tested by any club willing to match their reported €150m valuation.
The Ogun State Government has recorded another significant milestone with the safe arrival of the state’s pilgrims at Gateway International Airport, a development described as a testament to Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to infrastructural development and economic growth.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Gbenga Dairo, while reacting to the successful arrival of the pilgrims, commended Governor Abiodun for his visionary leadership, noting that the use of Gateway International Airport for the pilgrims’ return marks a new chapter in the state’s aviation and transportation history.
According to Dairo, the seamless landing and processing of the pilgrims demonstrated the operational readiness and growing importance of the airport as a strategic asset for Ogun State and the Southwest region.
“This achievement underscores the Governor’s determination to position Ogun State as a hub for economic growth, transportation, and investment. The safe arrival of our pilgrims at Gateway International Airport is not only a source of pride but also clear evidence of the progress being made under his administration,” Dairo said.
He further praised the management of the airport, security agencies, and all stakeholders involved in ensuring a smooth operation, stressing that the successful exercise reflects the state’s capacity to handle major aviation activities.
The commissioner also congratulated the returning pilgrims on the successful completion of their spiritual journey and wished them continued blessings and safe reunions with their families.
Speaking on the development, the Consultant to the Governor on Aviation, Capt. Dapo Olumide, expressed confidence that the airport would continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity, boosting commerce, and attracting more development opportunities to Ogun State.
Olumide noted that the successful reception of the pilgrims at Gateway International Airport represents another landmark achievement in the ongoing efforts of the Abiodun administration to expand critical infrastructure, strengthen the state’s transportation network, and elevate Ogun State’s profile on the national stage.
He added that the milestone further validates the state’s investment in aviation infrastructure and reinforces the airport’s capacity to support both commercial and special flight operations.
Former Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung, has accused the Bola Tinubu-led administration of lacking the political will to confront Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, saying the government is more focused on 2027 politics than protecting lives lost to terrorism and kidnappings.
Speaking on Friday’s Arise TV’s Morning Show, Dalung delivered a sharp critique of the government’s security response and overall leadership record, Vanguard reported on Saturday.
Government seems not to have the political will to deal with it. They have all the gadgets to track anybody who criticises the government — they can pick him up in the next five minutes.
“But they don’t have equipment to track terrorists who display huge phones in the forest, behead teachers, abduct schoolchildren, torture them in the forest, produce videos and send,” he said.
He dismissed the Information Minister’s recent call for unity against terrorism, calling it a sign of deeper failure.
“I think it’s a statement confirming that the federal government has completely and woefully failed. They don’t seem to have any idea of a solution to the ravaging insecurity that is across the country,” he said.
Dalung said the security architecture was fragmented, with agencies working in silos rather than as a coordinated force.
He also warned that terrorists were now operating what he described as a “parallel forest economy,” sustaining themselves independently of the state.
Questioning foreign military involvement, he said:
“We were told that the Americans are here with us. If the Americans are here with us, what have they been doing? We have not felt their impact,” Dalung said, urging the government to stop reassurances and instead empower communities to defend themselves.
On politics ahead of 2027, Dalung said Nigeria had returned to regional power blocs and warned of electoral uncertainty.
“Nigeria has returned to the politics of the First Republic, where regions now have their political parties. Almost all the zones have presidential candidates. So ultimately, in 2027, we may be facing serious confusion as we advance towards election,” he said.
He also described President Tinubu’s three-year performance as disappointing, accusing the administration of rhetoric without impact.
“Three years into his tenure, it is just blame game and rhetorics of reforms — reforms that no single iota of the benefit has trickled down. Rather, Nigerians are getting impoverished daily.
The economy is in doldrums. Insecurity remains rhetorical,” he said.
Responding on the programme, political scientist Obafemi George defended the administration, arguing it deserves time and pointing to economic indicators as evidence of progress.
He cited a sovereign credit rating upgrade by Standard & Poor’s from B- to B as proof of stabilisation and linked rising insecurity to regional instability following the withdrawal of French forces from the Sahel.
“This current administration has confronted insecurity that is higher than the previous administration, spent more, and recorded more successes in combating insecurity,” he said, referencing rescue operations in Goza and Katsina.
On governance timelines, George argued that national development cannot be achieved quickly.
“You know, when you employ someone, you give the person KPIs… and if you look at each of those, in my opinion, I could confidently say that the president ticked the boxes,” he said.
He added that structural reforms take time, citing global comparisons.
“I ask people to give me one example of a country in a modern era that has transitioned from being a poor country to a prosperous country in 36 months,” he said, referencing China’s long-term reforms, Rwanda’s development trajectory under Paul Kagame, and Dubai’s multi-decade transformation.
“One of the things that we are going through that is causing our current pain is because some sacrifices that were meant to have been done years ago weren’t done,” he added.
He also referenced former Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s warning that Nigeria was “broke” and said earlier removal of fuel subsidy would have prevented today’s economic strain, arguing that current reforms are aimed at long-term stability.
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, has vowed to remain in Ijebu-Ode until the source of the recurring air pollution incidents affecting students of Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School is identified and a lasting solution found.
Oresanya made the pledge during a visit to the school following the latest recurrence of the mysterious incident on Wednesday, when several students reportedly experienced distress and were rushed to the State Hospital for medical attention. No life was lost and the affected students were stabilised.
The recurring incidents, which have generated anxiety among parents, teachers and residents of Ijebu-Ode, have in recent weeks been linked to suspected gas emissions in parts of the town, including areas around Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School and Anglican Girls Grammar School (AGGS).
“We are here full-time and I am going to be here until I can assure our people that nothing will happen,” the commissioner said.
According to Oresanya, investigations conducted by the state government have detected methane gas in the affected area, prompting authorities to focus on possible sources of the emission.
He explained that when the incidents first occurred, government officials initially suspected human activities because the phenomenon was unprecedented in the area. Environmental officers investigated activities involving chemical mixtures and other local practices around the community and took steps to eliminate those possibilities.
The commissioner disclosed that gas detectors installed around Ijebu-Ode, particularly around Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, subsequently identified methane as the gas present during later incidents.
Following the discovery, the government began investigating two possible sources: gas infrastructure and naturally occurring underground emissions.
As a precautionary measure, the state government directed a gas supply company operating in the area to shut down its valves pending the outcome of investigations.
“The life and safety of our people are more important than any economic gain,” Oresanya said.
He revealed that experts from the Ogun State Government, the Geology Department of Olabisi Onabanjo University, and the Federal University of Agriculture are working together to determine whether the gas is linked to underground geological activity or gas infrastructure.
According to him, investigators are examining a five-kilometre radius around the affected locations and studying possible underground fault lines that could allow gas to migrate beneath communities.
Addressing public concerns, the commissioner dismissed suggestions that the incidents were the result of criminal activities or sabotage.
“This is not a bandit matter,” he said, noting that the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies were actively involved in monitoring the situation. He added that surveillance drones and security personnel had also been deployed to assist the investigation.
To protect students and staff, ambulances and medical personnel have been stationed at the affected schools while investigations continue.
Oresanya assured residents that the government would not relent until the exact source of the problem is established and a permanent solution implemented.
For concerned parents and residents, his message was clear: the state government will remain on the ground until answers are found and normalcy fully restored.
The ancient town of Ijebu-Ife was agog with celebration and reflection as traditional rulers, scholars, community leaders, and dignitaries gathered to commemorate the 30th coronation anniversary of the Ajalorun of Ijebu-Ife, Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo.
The highlight of the anniversary symposium was the launch of Destined for the Throne: A Biography of Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo and the Story of Ijebu-Ife, a book that chronicles the monarch’s life, journey to the throne, and three decades of leadership, while also documenting the history and cultural heritage of the ancient Ijebu community.
The book was written by Gbenga Osinaike, a veteran Nigerian journalist, biographer and publisher with over three decades of experience in the media industry. Osinaike rose to the position of Assistant Editor at Punch Newspapers before resigning in 2007 to establish Church Times Nigeria.
Through his work as a journalist and biographer, he has contributed to the documentation of notable personalities, institutions, and historical developments.
The book was formally launched by Chief Fola Adeola, who served as the chief launcher, while its review was presented by Adebayo Aina, who highlighted the significance of the publication as both a personal account of the monarch’s life and an important historical record of Ijebu-Ife.
In his remarks at the symposium, Professor Bankole Okuwa underscored the historical importance of Ijebu-Ife within Yoruba civilisation and the enduring relevance of the Ajalorun institution. He commended the effort to document the history of the community and the reign of its monarch, describing such publications as invaluable tools for preserving heritage and collective memory.
According to the professor, societies must take deliberate steps to record their histories, traditions, and experiences to ensure that future generations have access to accurate accounts of the past. He noted that biographies and historical records serve as enduring references and help prevent the distortion of historical facts.
Drawing from his experiences in academia and public service, Okuwa reflected on the importance of historical accuracy, mentorship, and legacy. He praised the author for undertaking the task of chronicling both the life of the monarch and the story of the community, stressing that written documentation remains one of the most effective ways of preserving history.
The anniversary celebration also provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the reign of Oba Oguntayo, which many speakers described as a period of stability, cultural preservation, and community development. Over the past three decades, the monarch has played a pivotal role in promoting the identity and progress of Ijebu-Ife while strengthening the institution of traditional leadership.
For many attendees, the unveiling of Destined for the Throne represented more than the launch of a book. It was a celebration of history, identity, and continuity-an effort to preserve the story of a people and their traditional institution for generations yet unborn.
As the event drew to a close, participants agreed that the publication would serve as an important resource for historians, researchers, and future generations seeking to understand the legacy of Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo and the rich history of Ijebu-Ife.- Story from NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel
The Super Eagles were held to a 2–2 draw by Poland in an international friendly on Wednesday, in a match that featured late drama at both ends.
Terem Moffi gave Nigeria national football team the lead in the 23rd minute after finishing off a well-worked move to put the visitors ahead going into halftime.
Poland responded immediately before the break, with Potulski restoring parity in the 46th minute to make it 1–1 and shift momentum back to the home side.
Nigeria regained control in the second half and went ahead again in the 77th minute when Paul Onuachu calmly converted from the penalty spot to make it 2–1.
However, the Super Eagles were denied victory in stoppage time, as Wiśniewski struck in the 95th minute to level the game at 2–2 and secure a share of the spoils for Poland.
The result leaves both sides with positives to take from a tightly contested encounter that swung back and forth until the final whistle.
