Lifestyle

The remains of Manager Programmes of Ogo Ilu FM, Oko, under the stable of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria FRCN, Ibadan zonal station, Late Mrs Funmilayo Ogundiji have been laid to rest at her residence, Agbedo, Moniya area of Ibadan, Oyo State.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent who was at the burial, reports that friends and families of late Mrs Ogundiji including members of staff of FRCN, gave their last respect to the late FRCN staff.

In a sermon, the Most Superior Evangelist Adebayo Adekunmi of Celestial Church of Christ, CCC, Ileri Oluwa Parish, Oko, urged christians to live a life that would be impactful to humanity.

The cleric stressed the need for every human being to shun evil and live a meaningful life while on earth so as to gain eternity.

He maintained that everyone would render his or her account of stewardship on the day of reckoning.

The Zonal Director of FRCN, lbadan Zonal Station, Mr Femi Fulani who was represented by the Acting General Manager, Ogo Ilu FM, Mr Olufemi Olakanmi eulogised the selfless, humble and committed lifestyle of the deceased, adding that her invaluable roles in the corporation remain indelible.

One of the deceased’s brothers, Mr Gbenga Ogundiji said his sister would be remembered for her love and care for the family.

Aged 49, Mrs Ogundiji popularly called Iyalode died on February 18, 2026 during a brief illness.

She is survived by an aged mother, husband and children.

Religion

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Muslims have been challenged to remain faithful by continually reflecting on their deeds, with a reminder that every soul will account for its actions in the hereafter.

Director of Al-Madeenah Centre, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Fadeelatus-Shaykh Dr. Sharafud-deen Raji, gave the admonition while delivering a lecture at the 2026 Annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Speaking on the theme, “Reality of Death and Accountability,” Dr. Raji described death as inevitable, stressing that true preparation lies in nurturing the soul through obedience to Allah rather than excessive attachment to worldly possessions.

He urged Muslims to live purposeful and accountable lives, noting that accountability on the Day of Judgement requires strict adherence to the pillars of Islam including belief in the oneness of Allah, observance of the five daily prayers, payment of Zakat, fasting during Ramadan, performing pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, and living righteously in line with Islamic teachings.

Dr. Raji further emphasised the need for Muslims to be mindful of their actions, guard their tongues, and abide by the teachings of the Holy Qur’an as revealed by Almighty Allah.

In a goodwill message, the State Deputy Governor, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Boundary Matters, Khadijat Ahmed, described Ramadan as a sacred period of devotion, reflection, compassion, unity and renewed commitment to Allah and humanity.

The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Oludaisi Elemide, represented by the Majority Leader, Mr. Yusuf Sherif, described the theme as timely and reminded public office holders of the certainty of divine judgement and the need to uphold integrity, justice and selfless service.

Mr. Elemide commended the House of Assembly Muslim Community for sustaining the annual Ramadan Lecture, noting that it serves as a moral compass reinforcing accountability to God and the people.

Earlier, the Clerk, Alhaji Sakiru Adebakin, emphasised the need to continually promote harmony between faith and governance, stating that patience over anger, humility over disrespect, punctuality, leadership by example, inculcation of moral values and obedience would promote peaceful co-existence and sustainable development.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ramadan Lecture Planning Committee, Mr. Lawal Samusideen, urged congregation to uphold the virtues of Ramadan beyond the fasting period for the continued progress of the state and the nation.

Politics

Member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Mr. Folajimi Oyekunle has described Friday’s judgement of the Oyo State High Court which upheld the legitimacy of the Peoples Democratic Party National convention held in Ibadan.as a victory for democracy and internal party stability

Mr Oyekunle made this known while reacting to the judgement, stressing that it reinforces the principles of fair political participation within Peoples Democratic Party.

According to the federal lawmaker, the country cannot afford a one-party political system, noting that democracy thrives on diversity of ideas, ideological balance, and institutional checks and balances.

“We all cannot face the same direction politically and ideologically and expect excellent results. There must be checks and balances for democracy to have its way and remain stronger,” he stated.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his confidence in the ability of the party to remain resilient while serving the interests of party faithful and members of the public in the state and particularly within Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

He urged party members to remain calm, law-abiding, and hopeful, emphasizing that democracy is strengthened when justice is allowed to prevail through legitimate judicial processes.

Mosope Kehinde

Politics

By Mojisola Oladele

Twenty-five lawmakers including the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun who were elected under the People’s Democratic Party, PDP have announced their defection to the Accord Party.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Mr. Olamide Tiamiyu, the decision was reached during a meeting, held at the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

“The members had resigned from the PDP weeks ago. Following what they described as deep reflection and extensive consultations with supporters, political associates and key stakeholders, they resolved to align with Accord.”

The lawmakers expressed their conviction that Accord party would provide a more stable, inclusive and people-centred platform through which they could continue to serve the people of Osun State.

They explained that the move was driven by a determination to advance the collective interests of the people and to sustain development across the state.

The lawmakers urged their supporters to remain steadfast and join them as they embark on the new political chapter.

They thereafter met with Governor Ademola Adeleke and Accord Party leaders at the Government House, where they reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Governor.

Edited by Olaolu Fawole

Foreign

The United Kingdom has temporarily withdrawn staff from its embassy in Tehran amid rising tensions over the prospect of US military strikes against Iran, prompting several countries to warn their citizens in the Middle East.


The UK Foreign Office described the move as a “precautionary measure,” adding that the embassy in Iran’s capital would continue to operate remotely. It also updated its travel advisory, urging against “all but essential travel” to Israel.


Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Israel told some non-emergency staff and their families on Friday that they could leave the country.


The developments come a day after officials from United States and Iran held talks widely seen as a last-ditch effort to avert conflict over Tehran’s nuclear programme.


Several other countries, including China, India and Canada, have advised their citizens to leave Iran as soon as possible due to the risk of hostilities.


President Donald Trump has threatened military action if Tehran fails to reach an agreement on its nuclear ambitions. He has ordered what officials describe as the largest US military build-up in the region since the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, while Iran has vowed to respond forcefully to any attack.


On Friday, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee advised embassy staff who wished to leave Israel to “do so as soon as possible.”


In an email, he reportedly said there was “no need to panic,” but stressed that those intending to depart should make arrangements “sooner rather than later.” A statement on the embassy’s website added that staff “may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available.”


The move followed a recent decision by the US government to order all non-essential staff to leave its embassy in Beirut after a security review.


Meanwhile, the United States Department of State announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Israel on Monday for talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to a department spokesperson, Rubio was expected to discuss “a range of regional priorities,” including Iran.

BBC/Taiwo Akinola

Lifestyle

By Amos Ogunrinde

The remains of the late Head of Programmes Department of Ogo Ilu 89.3 FM, Mrs. Funmilola Ogundiji, will be laid to rest on Saturday at her residence in Agbedo, Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo State.


Her body will depart the Bowen University Teaching Hospital for Ibadan, where a funeral service will be held before interment.


Mrs. Ogundiji, popularly known as Iyalode, died on February 18, 2026, after a brief illness. She was 49 years old.


She is survived by her aged mother, husband, and children.

News

By Fasilat Lawal

A group known as Friends of Radio Nigeria, Ibadan, has expressed its readiness to support the new Zonal Director, Mr. Olufemi Fulani, in addressing the lingering power challenges confronting the station.

The group, comprising retired management staff of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria ,FRCN,Ibadan Zonal Station, made this known during its inaugural meeting held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists ,NUJ, Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the group, Mr. Ademola Afolabi, congratulated the newly appointed Zonal Director and empathised with him over the enormous challenges facing the station.

Mr. Afolabi, who retired as Director of News at FRCN Headquarters, maintained that Radio Nigeria, Ibadan, which has moulded numerous professional journalists across the country, must not be left alone to confront its current challenges.

He advised members of staff of Radio Nigeria, Ibadan, to remain committed and disciplined, and to discharge their duties diligently, regardless of the present condition of the organisation.

In the same vein, the Vice Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Kola Animasaun, a retired Deputy Director of Marketing, Ibadan, and former General Manager of Positive FM, Akure, said members of the committee had benefited immensely during their years of active service in FRCN. 

He noted that it behoves them to give the necessary support to restore the station to its enviable status.

Reacting, the new Zonal Director, FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr. Olufemi Fulani, appreciated the unwavering support and commitment of the group.

Mr. Fulani highlighted measures taken by the management of the corporation to find a permanent solution to the power challenges to include exploring alternative energy sources, consultations with philanthropic individuals and corporate organisations, among other initiatives.

He explained that the current power outage was caused by accumulated electricity bills occasioned by high tariffs and other related issues.

Other members of the group who were present at the meeting  and also expressed their support included retired Director, FRCN New Media, Pastor Dare Olurunfemi; retired Deputy Director, News and Current Affairs, Mr. Tunde Abiodun; retired General Manager, Positive FM Akure, Deacon Femi Oladipo; Principal Technical Officer, Mr. Femi Ilori; Chief Technical Officer ,Studios,, Mr. Samuel Taiwo; and Controller of Marketing, Mr. Bayo Kumuyi.

It is almost a month now that the station had been grappling with the problem of power supply among numerous challenges bedevelling it for decades.

Despite the challenges, It has however not reneged in its mandate of fulfilling its mandate to the public by being the voice for the voiceless, having the courage and hope to surmount its own challenges.

Edited/ Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

Agriculture

By Rotimi Famakin

 The Society for Animal Rights Protection, in Oyo state has expressed readiness to sustain its collaboration with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, to strengthen public awareness on the protection of animals.

 The President, Society for Animal Rights Protection, Oyo state chapter, Dr Ibikunle Faramade stated this during a courtesy visit  by the members of the society to the management of FRCN, Ibadan Zonal station.

Dr Faramade explained that the society has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with  Radio Nigeria in view of the outstanding and excellent operational standards in the nation’s media landscape.

While urging radio Nigeria to continue to maintain it’s flagship position, Dr Faramade said the society needed to partner FRCN so as to achieve the vision of keeping the rights of animals

Reacting, the Zonal Director, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal station, Mr Olufemi Fulani condemned the disposition of Nigerians to  domestic and wildlife animals saying constant campaigns is required to change the narrative; hence, the readiness of FRCN to partner the society.

Mr Fulani commended the society for considering animal  rights protection and urged them to continue with the vision.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Legislature

By Mosope Kehinde

Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, has reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to advancing inclusive and gender-responsive education reforms, declaring that no society can rise above the quality and accessibility of its educational system.

Speaking at the Policy Dialogue on Legislative Pathways for Inclusive Education Reform in Oyo State, the Speaker emphasized that education remains the bedrock of sustainable development and must be deliberately structured to accommodate every child, particularly the girl-child and other vulnerable groups.

Mr. Ogundoyin described the dialogue as timely and strategic, noting that it rightly places the Legislature at the center of education reform efforts. 

He explained that the constitutional mandate of lawmakers extends beyond lawmaking to include oversight and appropriation, instruments through which policies are shaped, budget priorities influenced, and public resources deployed efficiently and equitably.

Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin assured stakeholders that relevant House Committees, particularly those on Budget, Education, Science and Technology, and Women Affairs and Community Development would continue to collaborate closely with civil society groups and development partners to review existing frameworks, identify policy gaps, and promote reforms capable of delivering measurable progress.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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News

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has increased the monthly payment for backlog and current gratuities of Oyo State workers from ₦1 billion to ₦3 billion.

The governor announced this at the 12th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture held at Ibadan North Local Government Motor Park, Agodi Gate, Ibadan.

He also said arrangements had been concluded to ensure smooth airlifting of Oyo State pilgrims directly from Ladoke Akintola International Airport to Saudi Arabia on May 3 and 4, 2026.

Appreciating the Muslim community’s support, Governor Makinde donated one bus each to seven selected mosques across the state’s geopolitical zones to aid Islamic propagation.

In a sermon, Sheikh Jamiu Sanusi cautioned against sycophancy and urged contentment.

In goodwill messages, the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja and former Oyo Assembly Speaker, Alhaja Monsurat Sunmonu, called for unity and collective commitment to the state’s development.

Also special prayers were offered for the governor and the state by Sheik Faruk Onikijipa.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Economy

Organised labour in the federal public service has given the Federal Government until Friday 27th February to release funds for three months of unpaid wage awards and other outstanding allowances across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

The Trade Union Side of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) issued the ultimatum in a letter to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

It warned that the eight civil service unions would take decisive action if the February 27, 2026 deadline is missed.

The unions accused the government of withholding funds, alleging that payment agencies are ready to act once the Federal Ministry of Finance releases the money.

The wage award followed approval of the 70,000 naira minimum wage after fuel subsidy removal and was designed as a temporary relief pending full implementation in July 2024.

Labour leaders said five months were initially unpaid; two were later settled after pressure, leaving three months outstanding since July 2024.

The unions also demanded payment of promotion arrears for workers elevated over three years ago, salary arrears for employees recruited between 2015 and 2024, and proper implementation of a 40 per cent peculiar allowance tied to the new minimum wage.

They warned of possible industrial action if funds are not released by the deadline and copied the letter to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, among others.

Punch/Maxwell Oyekunle/Adetutu Adetule

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News

By Mojisola Oladele

The Zonal Director of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr. Olufemi Fulani says he would do all within his capacity to transform the stations under Ibadan Zone, Positively.

Mr. Fulani stated this while addressing staff of Radio Nigeria, Gold FM ilesa in Osun State.

While emphasizing the need for members of staff to embrace new changes, Mr. Fulani explained that new innovations would pave the way for good results.

The Zonal Director, who lauded  staff of  Gold fm for their perseverance,  implored them to give more support to the station’s General Manager for the progress of the station.

Earlier , the General Manager, Gold fm Ilesa, Mrs. Olukemi Oni described the New Zonal Director as a man who possessed the required experience to paddle the canoe of Ibadan Zonal Station for its development.

Mrs Oni appreciated the support of members of Staff in their efforts to restore the lost glory of Gold FM, ilesa. 

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Crime

By Jeffery Ahonmisi

The Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, Oyo State Command, has arrested a visitor who attempted to smuggle suspected hard drugs into the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Agodi, Ibadan.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olanrewaju Anjorin.

Mr. Anjorin said the male visitor was apprehended during routine security checks conducted on visitors and their belongings at the facility’s entrance.

He noted that the suspect, who claimed to be visiting an inmate, was found to have concealed substances suspected to be Colorado and hemp inside a portion of cooked rice.

The PRO stated that further investigation revealed inconsistencies in the suspect’s stated purpose for the visit, indicating an apparent attempt to evade detection.

Mr. Anjorin added that the suspect has been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ,NDLEA, for further investigation and prosecution.

He also noted that the Controller of Corrections, NCoS Oyo State Command, Mr. Olusegun Osogun, commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism, and reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to ensuring the security, safety, and integrity of all custodial centres in the state.

The Command’s spokesman urged the public to cooperate with Correctional Service authorities and refrain from engaging in unlawful acts.

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Human Angle

By Amos Ogunrinde

The management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, has confirmed the death of six students of the institution in a ghastly road crash along the Ilorin–Ogbomoso Road.

The Registrar of the institution,  Mrs. Olayinka Balogun confirmed the sad development in a statement made available to newsmen in Ogbomoso.

She described the incident as tragic and a monumental loss to the university community.

Mrs Balogun identified the deceased students as Shehu Nana Firdawsi Hamza, Idris Jamila, Abdulraheem Maimunah Hamza, Blessing Kevwe, Owoicho Elizabeth, and Aroke Ozavize Victoria.

THE LAUTECH Registrar stated that the students, all in their final year under the Open and Distance Learning Nursing programme, were travelling in a public bus from Suleja, Niger State to the campus in Ogbomoso for their final examinations when the accident occurred at Otte in Kwara State.

The management of LAUTECH therefore extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and urged members of the public to pray for the repose of their souls.

One of the late students was said to have been heavily pregnant.

According to the report, the university community has since been thrown into mourning over the death of the six students.

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Politics

By Mojisola Oladele

The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun, has dismissed allegations by the All Progressives Congress, APC, that the legislature undermined local government autonomy with the passage of the Local Government Amendment No. 2 Bill, 2026.

Prince Egbedun, in a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Olamide Tiamiyu, described the APC’s claims as unfounded and driven by desperation.

He maintained that the recent ruling of the Supreme Court of Nigeria does not invalidate the constitutional authority of state legislatures over local government administration.

“The Supreme Court judgement does not erase Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution. That section expressly empowers state Houses of Assembly to make laws for the proper administration of local governments. Autonomy does not translate into absence of legislative oversight,” the statement said.

Prince Egbedun explained that the amendment seeks to promote transparency and prevent administrative lapses in the management of public funds at the grassroots, not to take over local government finances.

“We have the mandate of the people of Osun State to legislate. That responsibility cannot and will not be surrendered because of partisan pressure. Our duty is to ensure peace, order and good governance, including strengthening accountability mechanisms where necessary,” he said.

The Speaker described the APC’s condemnation of the bill as premature, adding that the opposition failed to examine the provisions of the amendment before issuing its statement.

He urged the party to exercise restraint, study the contents of the law thoroughly and seek clarification from the House where necessary, rather than resort to public speculation.

The APC had earlier accused the Assembly of attempting to undermine a recent Supreme Court judgement granting autonomy to local governments.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

By Abisola Oluremi

The Oyo Police Command has arrested three suspects following a high-stakes armed robbery in the Asejire area of Ibadan. 

Acting on a tip-off, the CP Monitoring Unit tracked the five-man syndicate to Ogbomoso, where they apprehended 24-year-old Chigbo Mesoma, 29-year-old Erondu Wisdom, and 25-year-old Okechukwu Emmanuel.

​In a release signed by the Command Public Relations Officer, Mr Olayinka Ayanlade, the officers recovered a hijacked Howo Truck loaded with 2,000 bags of Chicken feed, valued at ₦31,750,000, A cutlass and an additional set of number plates. 

The suspects have reportedly confessed to the crime, and a manhunt is currently underway to capture the remaining two members of the gang.

​Commissioner of Police in Oyo State , Mr Femi Haruna praised the public for their timely and credible information, credited with making the breakthrough possible.

 He reaffirmed that Oyo State will not be a fertile ground for criminals and urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities via the state’s emergency toll-free lines.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

Gunmen, in the early hours of Wednesday, abducted five worshippers at a church in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

It was gathered that the armed men stormed the church, a parish of the Celestial Church of Christ, at about 1:00 a.m. while a service was ongoing, abducted the worshippers and took them to an unknown destination.

The spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a message sent to journalists in Akure on Wednesday.

Jimoh said, “Upon receiving the report, operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations.”

He further disclosed that one of the victims has been rescued, while one suspect has been apprehended.

“As a result of sustained joint efforts, one of the kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued. Additionally, one suspect linked to the incident has been arrested and has made useful statements that are assisting with ongoing investigations.”

Jimoh added that operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of all perpetrators involved.

He urged residents of the area to remain calm, vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and actionable information that may aid ongoing operations.

Channels/Olaolu Fawole

Crime

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested 10 suspects belonging to a kidnapping syndicate and recovered a ransom from them.

The arrest was carried out on Monday 23rd, February, 2026, by a combined operation between the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Section and visiting PMF personnel approved and deployed to Ondo State as operational support.

The spokesperson of the Command, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the arrest in a statement made available to journalists in Akure on Tuesday.

He noted that the operatives swiftly mobilised to locations along the Ondo Road axis of Akure city, based on credible and actionable intelligence.

 “The intelligence-driven operation led to the arrest of ten suspects believed to be connected to the kidnapping syndicate. All the suspects apprehended are: Muritala Muhammed (aged;22), Mustapha Adamu (aged;20), Usman Ibrahim (aged;25), Amisu Aruna (aged;28), Asiru Abdulasis (aged;20), Abduliu Sanni (aged;22), Ibrahim Suraju (aged;20), Noah Isiaku (aged;20), Abdulahi Suraju (aged;20), and Arabi Hamet (aged;18),” the statement read.

According to Jimoh, a motorcycle, as well as some cash, suspected to be ransom money, were recovered from the Suspects.

“During the operation, their operational motorcycle and ransom money were recovered from the suspects. Notably, part of the recovered cash comprised burnt currency notes, which are currently being documented as exhibits in the ongoing investigation,” Jimoh said.

He noted that the suspects have made useful confessional statements of their involvement in the crime, while the exhibits recovered are currently being processed for comprehensive investigation and further necessary action.

The police spokesperson gave assurance that the command is working towards identifying and apprehending other accomplices who may still be at large.

Reacting to the development, the state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, urged communities across the state to organise vigilante groups to complement the efforts of the police and other security agencies.

The CP further reassured residents that the Command would leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and security of lives and property throughout Ondo State.

Channelstv / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

The arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was on Wednesday stalled at the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, after the defence failed to produce the defendant in court.

El-Rufai is facing a three-count charge brought against him by the Department of State Services, over alleged wiretapping of the phone of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu.

At the hearing on Wednesday, Defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, told the court that his client was in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and could not be brought for arraignment.

Iyamu urged the court to adjourn the matter to enable his production, and pressed for the bail application to be heard, noting that the prosecution had indicated it would not oppose bail as the offences were bailable.

However, the prosecution, led by Oluwole Aladedoye, asked the court to defer the bail request, arguing that the defendant had not yet been arraigned.

In a brief ruling, Justice Joyce Abdumalik held that since the defendant had not been formally arraigned, the bail application was premature.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter to April 23, 2026, for arraignment.

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

Crime

By Jeffrey Ahonmisi

Three suspects who allegedly damaged an office complex belonging to a lawyer, Mr Olusegun Abayomi, along the Nigerian Railway Corporation at Mile 110, Odo-Ona, Ibadan, Oyo State, have been arraigned before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court.

The defendants, Adebayo Lateef, 25, Jimoh Lateef,30, and a local government Councillor, Seriki Idris of Ward 8, Onireke, Ibadan, were charged on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing, assault, malicious damage, land grabbing, encroachment, and breach of peace.

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The complainant, Mr. Abayomi, told the court that he acquired the land from a person who leased it from the Nigerian Railway Corporation.

The Police prosecutor, Sergeant Akeem Akinloye, informed the court that the defendants and others now at large allegedly conspired to commit the offences.

Mr. Akinloye alleged that on 2nd February, 2025, the defendants forcefully encroached on the property of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, which was leased to Mr. Abayomi.

The prosecutor also stated that the defendants allegedly assaulted a female lawyer, Oluwatoyin Adegoke, by slapping and punching her and pointing a gun at her.

According to the prosecution, the defendants also allegedly stole electrical wires, fittings, and other electrical materials valued at ten million naira from the property.

The defence counsel, Mr. Martin Achugbue, prayed the court to grant the defendants bail in liberal terms.

In her ruling, the Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Olabisi Ogunkanmi, granted the defendants bail in the sum of seven million, five hundred thousand naira each, with two sureties each in like sum.

The matter was subsequently adjourned till April 16, 2026, for hearing.

Edited by Olaolu Fawole

Security

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, following the submission of his letter citing pressing family considerations.

President Tinubu received Mr Egbetokun’s resignation earlier today and expressed his profound appreciation for Egbetokun’s decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation.

The President acknowledged his dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to strengthening internal security architecture during his tenure.

Appointed in June 2023, Egbetokun was serving a four-year term scheduled to conclude in June 2027, in line with the amended provisions of the Police Act.

In view of the current security challenges confronting the nation, and acting in accordance with extant laws and legal guidance, President Tinubu has approved the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu to serve as Acting Inspector-General of Police with immediate effect.

The President is confident that AIG Disu’s experience, operational depth, and demonstrated leadership capacity will provide steady and focused direction for the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.

In compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation.

The President reiterates his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing national security, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains professional, accountable, and fully equipped to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.

FRCN Abuja/Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

Obituary

By Amos Ogunrinde

The Management of Radio Nigeria Ogo Ilu 89.3 FM, Oko Town, has announced the death of the station’s Head of Programmes, Mrs Funmilola Ogundiji.

A statement by the Acting General Manager of the Station, Engineer Olufemi Olakanmi says Mrs Ogundiji died last Wednesday February 18, 2026 during a brief illness.

Aged 49, Mrs Ogundiji popularly called *Iyalode* joined the services of Radio Nigeria on the 1st of November, 2007.

Meanwhile, the management of Radio Nigeria Ogo Ilu FM in Oko Town has visited the parents house of Mrs Funmilola Ogundiji at Akinrinlo, Idi Ose, Moniya, Ibadan on behalf of the Zonal Director, Mr Femi Fulani to commiserate with them.

During the visit, prayers were offered for the family of the deceased.

In the meantime, the remains of Mrs Funmilola Ogundiji will be laid to rest on Saturday at her residence,Agbedo, Moniya Ibadan.

Her corpse will leave Bowen Teaching Hospital in Ogbomoso to Ibadan same Saturday where there would be funeral service.

Mrs Funmilola Ogundiji is survived by aged mother and Children.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Legislature

By Mojisola Oladele

The Osun State House of Assembly has passed the Osun State Local Government Amendment No. 2 Bill 2026 into law after extensive deliberations.

Majority Leader Mr Kofoworola Adewunmi moved the motion for the bill’s passage, while Ejigbo State Constituency lawmaker Mr Olujimi Asagade seconded it during plenary at the Assembly Complex in Osogbo.

Earlier, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Mr Bamidele Lawal, presented the committee’s report on the bill, outlining corrections and recommendations adopted by the House.

Mr Lawal commended the OSHA Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun and fellow lawmakers for their contributions to the bill’s passage.

Presiding over the plenary, Prince Egbedun said the House would produce a clean copy of the bill and transmit it to Governor Ademola Adeleke for assent.

The new law seeks to strengthen financial transparency and accountability in local government administration.

It establishes clearer guidelines for opening, managing and operating local government accounts, enhances oversight and due process, improves fiscal management, and enables effective revenue tracking across the state’s 30 local government areas.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Security

By Abisola Oluremi

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has sought the collaboration of traditional institutions in checkmating activities of smugglers.

This was the thrust of the homage paid by Customs Acting Area Comptroller for Oyo/Osun area, Wale Adewole, to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ogunsua of Modakeke and Ataoja of Osogbo.

Speaking at the palace of the Ooni of Ife, the NCS Acting Area Comptroller solicited the support of the monarch and the community in combating smuggling, facilitating legitimate trade and enhancing national economic security.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi commended the Service for its role in trade facilitation and border security, assuring the Command of his continued support.

At Modakeke, the Acting Controller solicited for more intelligence sharing and community cooperation in maintaining effective customs operations.

The Ogunsua pledged the support of his people at ridding the nation of smuggling activities.

Similarly, during the visit to Osogbo,the Acting Area Comptroller, NCS Adewole reiterated the Command’s commitment to strengthening ties with host communities to promote lawful trade and curb illicit activities.

The Ataoja welcomed the delegation and assured the Service of the palace’s cooperation.

The Oyo/Osun Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to revenue generation, trade facilitation and the suppression of smuggling through sustained stakeholder collaboration.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

A casual worker engaged by the Ogun State Government has been killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a yet- to – be- identified soldier during a demolition exercise along the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway in Obafemi/Owode Local Government Area.

Confirming the incident in Abeokuta, the State’s Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi, said investigation had commenced to unravel the circumstances surrounding the shooting and to identify the soldier involved.

The Police Spokesperson explained that the victim, Oluwaseyi Adeoye, was part of a team from the state Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development assigned to enforce building regulations at a Company near Orile-Imo.

Eyewitnesses at the scene said the enforcement team met resistance from armed military personnel stationed at the facility, leading to a confrontation after officials insisted on carrying out the demolition of structures said to contravene approved specifications.

The witnesses explained that during the fracas, a soldier allegedly opened fire and Adeoye was reportedly struck by a stray bullet, resulting in his death at the scene, after which his remains were deposited at the State General Hospital morgue in Ijaye, Abeokuta.

Meanwhile, The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Tunji Odulami, condemned the killing and assured that security agencies had been contacted to ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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