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Oyetola’s Ex-Aide Rejects Claims of Disparagement in Adeleke–Oluremi Tinubu Exchange

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In response to the much-discussed incident involving Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi’s coronation anniversary in Ile-Ife, Dayo Fashola, an assistant to former Osun State governor Adegboyega Oyetola, has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

Fashola claims that the conversation between Tinubu and Adeleke was never meant to be derogatory, but rather to make sure the event closed on schedule so participants could safely return home.

Speaking on her verified Facebook account, Fashola mentioned that many of the event’s dignitaries, including more than 29 wives of different state governors, had to return, many of them from as far north as the North.

She said that Tinubu’s request for promptness was reasonable and essential given the limited time and deteriorating visibility in the evening.

According to Fashola, the First Lady’s seeming irritation was caused by her worries over the visitors’ safety and orderly departure.

“The exchange between Governor Adeleke and Her Excellency, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, CON was meant to ensure a judicious use of time, not to disparage the Governor,” she wrote.

Concern at the early departure of the more than 29 wives of different state governors who were present, along with other dignitaries, who were all waiting for the event to conclude so they could be transported back to their respective states, was the apparent cause of Her Excellency’s distress. Observe that a large number of the visitors were from the far north.

She had to tell the Governor once again to be time-conscious because time was running out and visibility was getting worse as night fell. It wasn’t as serious as people are making it out to be; it was humorous.

Since many of her important visitors had to go back to their destinations on time, even Her Excellency yearned for their indulgence to forego formality while giving her own address.

“Remembering that nighttime helicopter visibility is almost nonexistent. Once again, congratulations to our Yeye Asiwaju of the entire Oodua land and territories.”

Matawalle Fires Back at Critics Over Banditry, Defends Tinubu’s Decisions

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Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defense, has accused his detractors of trying to utilize delicate security matters for publicity.

In a statement issued by his media assistant, Ibrahim Dosara, the Minister bemoaned the fact that he is the target of deliberate and politically motivated attacks meant to harm his reputation.

He claimed that the government’s security policies are endangering the political aspirations of those who are funding the attacks in 2027.

He claimed that the attacks are being carried out by politicians who want to become relevant and divert him from his work.

“Public service requires courage, consistency, and a commitment to truth,” he said.

“It’s nothing more than desperate political propaganda to try to drag my name into irrelevant events.”

Matawalle clarified that long before he was elected governor of Zamfara, banditry was already a serious problem.

“Banditry was not a problem that was invented under my watch,” he declared. Over decades, it had expanded.

He claimed that his administration had improved intelligence, formed high-level committees, implemented organized security measures, and convicted criminals.

Additionally, he stated that disarmament programs were carried out with military assistance and that compromised traditional rulers were eliminated.

During his tenure as governor, the minister reported that 11 Chinese nationals engaged in illicit mining were deported and thousands of kidnapped victims were freed. He claimed that anyone attempting to falsify this record is using the suffering of innocent people for political purposes.

Matawalle added that these precautions had prevented significant security problems in Zamfara for more than a year.

“I received harassment and intimidation,” he said, adding that he encountered harassment while working on the rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi. But I resisted giving in to pressure. Humanity is paramount.

He maintained that those criticizing him are driven by the 2027 political contest and are terrified of the current defense reforms.

“My loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains total,” he declared, reiterating his allegiance to the president. Propaganda won’t affect his choices in any way.

Rising Insecurity Sparks Gani Adams’ Call for Power Devolution

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Iba Gani Adams, Yorubaland’s Aare Ona Kakanfo, has criticized the nation’s growing insecurity and the incursion of criminals into Yorubaland.

Yesterday, Gani Adams gave a speech at a Security Stakeholders’ Summit that included more than thirty Yoruba interest organizations and was themed “Towards a United Front Against Insecurity in Yorubaland.”

He claimed that the summit provided a forum for utilizing common resources, expertise, and determination to create safer communities and guarantee long-term security for every Yorubaland inhabitant.

“These bloodthirsty maniacs are already moving into some parts of Yorubaland, and kidnapping for ransom is already creating fear throughout the country,” he declared. Every effort must be made to prevent them. We are here today because of this. The phrase “We are on top of the situation” should not be used by our governors. The Yoruba people want to see action taken to make insecurity a thing of the past.

“I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again for future generations. The time has come for us to reorganize this nation. Abuja should not put pressure on all 36 states if we are truly practicing democracy as it should be. We have to reorganize right away.

“The federal government must also give the states more authority. The people are closer to governors. They are aware of their people’s needs. Governors should be in charge of the other crucial issues on the Constitution’s Exclusive List, except from currency, customs, defense, foreign affairs, and a few other areas.

Gani Adams made the following statement regarding restructuring: “If we restructure, some states in the Southwest can become our California, and Nigeria will be better for it.” Strange elements are flooding the nation every day, some of which are already in the South-West forests, as a result of our refusal to reorganize the nation and the political system. They will soon overrun our cities if precautions are not taken. Before taking the appropriate action, our president and governors ought not to have waited for Donald Trump’s warning.

According to him, security risks will be minimized by state policing.

It goes without saying that state police will eliminate security risks and protect Nigerians wherever they may be in the nation. In the end, this will propel and accelerate economic progress. The fact that these terrorists have slain traditional leaders in the states of Kwara, Ekiti, and Ondo is an insult, isn’t it?

“Any police officer moved from Zamfara to Lagos, Enugu to Rivers, or Sokoto to Ogun won’t be more familiar with the negative aspects of these states than the locals. He stated that state police should be established to support the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) continued efforts to protect Nigerians’ lives and property.

Mr. Abiodun Ramon Oseni, a former US police officer and US Army veteran who specializes in international security at the American Military University, Prof. Anthony Kila, a professor of strategy and development, economics, and security, and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Barr. Joki Lasisi (Retd.) were among the speakers at the conference.

Nigeria Speaks Out Following Detention of Military Aircraft in Burkina Faso

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The Federal Government has acknowledged that it is investigating the reasons for the detention of a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft in Burkina Faso following its forced landing in Bobo-Dioulasso on Monday.

According to reports, the aircraft breached the nation’s airspace.

The administration is keeping an eye on the situation, according to Kimiebi Ebienfa, a spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ebienfa informed reporters, “We are keeping an eye on the situation and will release a statement when we have sufficient information.”

There were eleven persons on board the Nigerian Air Force plane: nine troops and two staff members. They were in Burkinabe airspace when they had to make an emergency landing.

Authorities in Burkina Faso “emphasized the absence of authorization to fly over the territory of Burkina Faso for this military device” in a statement.

LP Abia Chairman Condemns Abure Faction, Calls Congresses Illegal

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Umuahia – The Abia State Chairman of the Nenadi Usman-led Labour Party faction, Emmanuel Otti, has accused Julius Abure and his supporters of flouting both a Supreme Court ruling and a recent court order by holding unauthorized party congresses.

Addressing journalists on Monday, Otti described the Abure-led congresses as a “Kangaroo exercise” that disrespected the law. He revealed that the Abia State High Court had recently stopped the conduct of LP congresses nationwide, yet the faction proceeded regardless.

“Supreme Court judgments must be obeyed. Violating the law risks attracting the wrath of the gods,” Otti said.

Otti also defended Governor Alex Otti, emphasizing that Labour Party members in Abia are well-treated and that recent visits to various local government areas confirmed their satisfaction with the Governor’s performance.

He confidently predicted that Governor Otti and the Labour Party would dominate elections across Abia State in 2027, citing the Governor’s strong track record and growing support within the party.

Benin Coup Attempt Foiled; Leader at Large, Hostages’ Status Unknown

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Lagos – A failed coup in Benin has left the nation on edge, as the apparent leader, Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, remains on the run and the status of hostages remains unclear.

Early Sunday, a group of eight soldiers calling themselves the Committee for Refoundation took over the national television station, announcing the removal of President Patrice Talon and the suspension of government institutions.

The coup was swiftly suppressed by Benin’s military, aided by Nigerian air and ground support. Several mutineers were arrested, but Tigri and others managed to escape. President Talon called the coup a “senseless adventure” and assured the public that security forces were protecting hostages, though he did not disclose casualties or numbers.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attempted takeover, while Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu commended Nigerian troops for defending constitutional order in Benin.

ECOWAS has mobilized a standby force, with personnel from Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone, to help maintain stability in the country.

Although sporadic gunfire was reported on Sunday, calm returned to Cotonou by Monday. Benin, which has experienced coups in the past, has maintained uninterrupted democratic rule for over 20 years.

The failed takeover follows a string of coups in West Africa since 2020, highlighting ongoing political instability in the region.

Joel Ikenya Joins PDP, Leaves APC Ahead of 2027 Polls

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Jalingo – Senator Joel Ikenya, a former Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, has officially defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a move he described as being in the best interest of Taraba residents.

Ikenya, who has previously served as a state lawmaker, a member of the National Assembly, and a federal junior minister, made the announcement in Jalingo on Monday. He has also contested the governorship seat in Taraba on multiple occasions.

Addressing his supporters, Ikenya said: “I want to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude for the love and solidarity you have shown to me since my political journey, which spanned over many years. After careful consideration, due diligence, and wide consultations, I am pleased to announce that I have formally defected from the APC to the PDP in the interest of my people, Tarabans.”

He added that the PDP has historically provided him with the platform to achieve his political milestones, reinforcing his belief in the party’s support and acceptance.

The defection marks a significant political development in Taraba as the 2027 general elections approach.

Closed-Door: Tinubu Hosts Six APC Governors at State House

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Abuja – In a move that has drawn attention across the political spectrum, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu convened a private meeting with six APC governors on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The gathering included governors Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Usman Ododo (Kogi), Aliyu Sokoto (Sokoto), and Dr. Nasir Idris (Kebbi). They reportedly spent less than an hour in discussions with the President.

Details of the agenda remain undisclosed, fueling speculation among political watchers, particularly in light of the country’s ongoing security concerns and the run-up to critical party activities.

Attempts to obtain comments from the governors post-meeting were unsuccessful, and Presidential officials remained tight-lipped.

Observers believe that such confidential sessions may indicate strategic planning by the APC ahead of upcoming political and national developments. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

Why Philip Agbese Is One of the Fastest-Growing Influences in the House of Reps

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In Enone’s political space, Hon. Philip Agbese PhD has become a standout figure redefining what true representation means. Serving as the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives and the lawmaker for Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, he has built an impressive legacy grounded in humility, service, and genuine connection with the people.

Agbese’s leadership philosophy has been widely praised for its people-centered focus. His commitment to what he terms “stomach infrastructural development” reflects his belief that a society thrives when basic needs are met. This principle has shaped many of his interventions, earning him admiration across the constituency.

Beyond meeting needs, Agbese is known for his openness. Supporters and colleagues describe him as a leader who listens, re-evaluates, and embraces valuable advice, even when it differs from his initial position. This flexibility, they say, has strengthened his effectiveness.

He is also regarded as one of the most responsive politicians in the Green Chamber, often acting swiftly on issues affecting his constituency. His proactive style has made him a force to reckon with and a dependable voice for his people.

For many residents of Enone, Agbese is more than a lawmaker; he is a symbol of hope, accessibility, and progress. By bridging the gap between the electorate and their representative, he has proven that leadership is not merely about holding office but about uplifting lives. Today, he stands tall as one of Enone’s most impactful and respected public figures.

‘He’s Afraid of Only One Man’ — CUPP Alleges Plan to Shut Out Top 2027 Candidate

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The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his team are increasingly unnerved by the growing influence of Labour Party flagbearer, Peter Obi, as the countdown to the 2027 presidential election intensifies.

Speaking in an interview on Monday, CUPP National Secretary, Peter Ameh, alleged that intelligence gathered from political consultations, private briefings and region-wide assessments shows that the presidency views Obi as the only candidate with the capacity to challenge its hold on power.

Ameh said the administration’s unease is reflected in the consistent jabs thrown at Obi by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, who he described as “obsessively focused” on the former Anambra governor. According to him, the same energy is not directed at other heavyweight politicians expected to contest in 2027.

“We do not make guesses. Our conclusions come from data and detailed political engagements. Everything points to one fact — this government does not want Peter Obi on the ballot,” he stated.

Ameh argued that Obi’s performance in the 2023 election, especially his victory in the Federal Capital Territory and his strong national showing despite alleged suppression, has positioned him as a dominant political force.

He maintained that the ruling party sees Obi as the most credible threat to its plans for 2027, adding that attempts to discredit him publicly are signs of deeper strategic concerns within the government.

The CUPP secretary warned that the alleged efforts to weaken Obi ahead of the polls underscore the mounting political tension as Nigeria gradually approaches another major election year.