THE INFLUX OF STRANGERS INTO OYO STATE IS WORRISOME - ARCHBISHOP ALADEKUGBE

His Grace , the most Reverend Williams Oluwarotimi Aladekugbe has expressed his concern on the influx of strangers into Oyo State     assumed  contributing to the insecurity in the state

The expression of the concern on the influx of strangers into all nooks and crannies of Oyo State was contained in his speech during the 2026 Synod held at Cathedral of St Peter, Aremo, Ibadan on Friday 

According to Bishop Aladekugbe, the influx of strangers into the state should be checked without further delay 

The president of the Synod called on Oyo State Government to profile the strangers who claimed to be okada riders

He enjoined the law enforcement agents to be more proactive in  ensuring the protection of life and property in the state 

" The issue of security is a collective responsibility, adding that apart from security operatives, other stakeholders such as traditional title holders, community leaders, religious leaders should be at alert ", the Clergy further stressed.

The 2026 Synod with it's theme " Cast your bread upon the waters (Ecclesiastics 11:1 ) which started on Thursday will come to a close with thanksgiving service on Sunday 17th May, 2026

ORIIRE ABDUCTION: Security Operatives Seal Escape Routes as Kidnappers Remain Trapped in National Park - Oyelade

The Oyo State Government has disclosed that suspected kidnappers involved in the attack on LA School, Ahoro-Esinele, and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele, Oriire LGUBEA, have been effectively confined within the National Park axis following coordinated security operations aimed at preventing their movement into neighbouring states.

The attack, which resulted in the killing of a teacher and the kidnapping of some pupils, also led to the abduction of the principal, two vice principals, and three teachers.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, security operatives have successfully surrounded the area, restricting the suspects’ movement and preventing possible escape into Kwara State or other neighbouring locations.

According to the commissioner, one motorcycle rider and one teacher were shot during the incident, while the injured teacher later died.

Prince Oyelade explained that immediately after the attack, around 11 a.m. yesterday, security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence Agro Rangers, and the Nigeria Police Force, with officers from the Monitoring Unit, were mobilized to commence rescue operations.

 The Commissioner of Police subsequently directed the Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS) to join the operation.

He also revealed that the Commissioner of Police coordinated with his counterpart in Kwara State, with both commands agreeing to strengthen surveillance and ensure any suspect attempting to cross state boundaries would be apprehended.

Prince Oyelade noted that patrol operations commenced this morning after intelligence indicated the suspects remained within the National Park in Oyo State. Three separate patrol teams comprising Amotekun operatives and hunters drawn from seven local government areas in Oke-Ogun were deployed through Igbeti towards Oloka and adjoining communities.

While noting that there has been no direct contact with the abductors so far, the statement said authorities are currently focused on establishing the exact number of pupils affected, as school authorities have yet to provide accurate records of missing children.

“This has made the rescue operation more difficult. What we are trying to do now is locate their position and apply pressure,” He said.

The commissioner assured residents that security personnel remain actively engaged in the ongoing operation and expressed confidence that the sustained pressure on the suspects would support efforts to secure the safe release of those abducted.

He added that security operatives have effectively surrounded the area, with indications suggesting the suspects remain within the National Park corridor and are unable to move into Kwara State or other neighbouring areas.

He  emphasized that the swift response to the incident reflects the Oyo State Government’s sustained investment in security infrastructure and proactive measures aimed at protecting lives and property across the state.

As part of these efforts, Amotekun in Oyo State remains the most fortified and funded security outfit in the South-West, with the corps currently operating 181 vehicles, 450 motorcycles, and over 2,500 personnel to strengthen surveillance, rapid response, and community-based security operations across the state.

He reiterated that these investments underscore the state commitment to maintaining a robust security architecture capable of responding swiftly to emerging threats and safeguarding residents.

He also reaffirmed the state  commitment to securing the release of all abducted victims and restoring normalcy to affected communities.

Olajide Okesade Bags Oyo Labour Friendly Administrator Award

 

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Oyo State, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade has received Labour Friendly Award from the Nigeria Labour Congress    (NLC), Oyo State Chapter.

The NLC Award day ceremony was held at Ilaji Hotel and Sports Result Akanran road, Ibadan 

Speaking at the event, The Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State, Comrade Kayode Martins said "it is with profound honour and admiration that we celebrate an exceptional administrator, a seasoned public servant, and a committed advocate of institutional growth and workers’ welfare  Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade.

Mr. Okesade is a quintessential civil servant whose career trajectory reflects dedication, integrity, visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of Oyo State Public Service.

 Born on the 11th of September, 1966, in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State, he has over the decades distinguished himself as a dependable technocrat and a reform-oriented administrator with deep institutional memory and extensive experience across several Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government.

A scholar and administrator of remarkable capacity, Mr. Okesade obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Studies from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University between 1989 and 1994. Driven by a passion for continuous learning and professional development, he later proceeded to earn a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration in 2021 and subsequently completed a Master’s Degree in Public Administration in 2024 from the same institution. 

His academic attainments further strengthened his administrative competence and broadened his strategic understanding of governance and public sector management.

Mr. Okesade’s journey in the Oyo State Civil/Public Service began with the States Universal Basic Education Board, where he served meritoriously as Deputy Director (Personnel) from 1996 to 2010. 

Since then, he has occupied several sensitive and strategic positions within government establishments, leaving behind remarkable footprints of excellence, accountability, innovation, and administrative reforms.

Over the years, he served at the Simeon Adebo Staff Development Centre as Director of Finance and Administration, where he played a pivotal role in securing official recognition for the institution in line with its enabling law. At the Ministry of Special Duties and later at the Ministry of Women Affairs, Poverty Alleviation and Community Development, he distinguished himself through prudent management of human and material resources, as well as effective coordination of administrative systems.

As Director to Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants in the Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Okesade demonstrated uncommon diligence, tact, and professionalism in coordinating executive administrative activities. His tenure at the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Cooperatives as Director of Planning, Research and Statistics further showcased his innovative capacity, particularly through the initiation of customized identification cards and certification programmes for artisans across Oyo State — an initiative aimed at strengthening the informal sector and enhancing economic inclusion.

While serving at the State Planning Commission as Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, he coordinated the State Monitoring and Evaluation Policy Document, thereby contributing immensely to evidence-based governance and policy implementation in Oyo State.

His exceptional service at the Office of the Executive Governor as Director of Administration and Supplies between 2019 and 2022 remains particularly noteworthy. During this period, he ensured strict compliance with global procurement standards in the engagement of contractors, consultants, and suppliers, while also championing reforms in the disposal and renewal of government unserviceable assets — initiatives that significantly boosted transparency and increased government revenue generation.

One of his most impactful contributions to governance was his proposal for financial support incentives for successful recruits into the Nigerian Army, a policy later adopted by the Oyo State Government to encourage qualified indigenes to participate in military recruitment exercises. This initiative demonstrated not only his patriotism but also his passion for youth empowerment and national service.

As Permanent Secretary and Inspector-General of Education for the Oyo Zonal Education Office covering Oyo East, Oyo West, Afijio, and Atiba Local Government Areas, Mr. Okesade brought stability, discipline, and administrative efficiency into the educational system. He later served as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Establishments and Training, where he earned wide commendation for promoting cordial labour relations, strengthening institutional harmony, and prioritizing workers’ welfare and professional development.

These sterling qualities undoubtedly informed the decision of the Nigeria Labour Congress to honour him with the prestigious “Labour Friendly Administrator Award of Excellence” in recognition of his outstanding contributions to public service administration and constructive engagement with organised labour in Oyo State.

Presently serving as the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Oyo State, Mr. Okesade continues to deploy his vast administrative experience toward driving investment promotion, trade facilitation, cooperative development, industrial growth, and socio-economic transformation in line with the developmental vision of the Oyo State Government.

Beyond the shores of Nigeria, Mr. Okesade has represented Oyo State and Nigeria on several international assignments and leadership engagements. He attended leadership training programmes in South Africa, undertook professional exposure and self-sponsored training in the United States, and participated in trade and export missions to Algeria and Istanbul, where he represented Oyo State on investment, trade, and export development matters. These international exposures enriched his global perspective and strengthened his capacity for policy innovation, institutional networking, and economic diplomacy.

Known for his humility, accessibility, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of the “nooks and crannies” of Oyo State, Mr. Okesade maintains strong relationships with workers, stakeholders, and citizens alike. He is widely respected as a man who combines administrative firmness with human compassion — a rare attribute that has endeared him to colleagues and organised labour across the State.

Indeed, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade exemplifies the ideals of purposeful leadership, professional excellence, and selfless service. His life and career remain a shining testimony to dedication, discipline, and commitment to the growth of public institutions and the welfare of the people.

LEARN TO BE GRATEFUL TO GOD AND MAN - ALADEKUGBE ADMONISHES NIGERIANS

His Grace, the Most Rev. Williams Oluwarotimi Aladekugbe the Archbishop of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province and the Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese has admonished Nigerians to be grateful to God and man so as to receive more blessings 

His Grace urged us to continue praying for our dear country Nigeria,it's leadership at all levels,the traditional rulers and all stakeholders in the governance of Nigeria 

The man of God prayed for our land to enjoy peaceful co - existence, unity, progress and love for one another 

Earlier in his sermon, the guest preacher, Rev. Canon (Dr) Moses Oyekunle Sowale Canon Sowale has admonished Nigerians to rely on God for their needs and stop murmuring,rumour mongering and fake news so as to move our country forward 

The admonition message was contained in the press release issued and signed by Ibadan North Anglican Diocesan Communicator, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga during the sermon delivered by Rev. Canon (Dr) Moses Oyekunle Sowale at the 1st Session of the 10th Synod held at the Cathedral of St. Peter Aremo, Ibadan on Thursday 14th May,2026

Referring the congregation to Psalm chapter 1, the Guest Preacher enjoined them not to cast their bread on wam ter which can be swept away,no wonder Jesus said "I am the bread of life and the spring of the living water which last forever

Finally ,the Clergy assured the people not to rely on worldly bread and water that disappoint and which can neither quench our thirst nor stop our hunger 

At the opening the opening service of the Synod were eminent personalities which included serving and retired Bishops, Clergies and their wives, legal Luminaries, Laites, traditional rulers and other invited guests 

The Synod activities continue with official opening on Friday 15th and concluded on Sunday 17th with Thanksgiving service 

A PEOPLE’S MOVEMENT: HON. ADETOLA ADUNNI, APC LEADERS, STAKEHOLDERS UNANIMOUSLY BACK HON. KAFILAT OGBARA FOR RE-ELECTION

The atmosphere at Tem Royal Event Centre, Alapere, came alive with excitement, solidarity and political unity as the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Hon. (Mrs.) Adetola Adunni Abubakar, hosted a historic “Meet Your Aspirants” stakeholders engagement where the entire political structure and stakeholders of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA publicly declared total support for the second term re-election bid of Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development and Member representing Kosofe Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives.

The event turned into a massive endorsement gathering as party faithful, APC leaders, ward executives from Wards A-G, councilors, women groups, youths, market leaders, religious bodies, community development associations (CDAs), artisan groups, professionals, royal fathers, elders, transport unions, political stakeholders and residents spoke in one voice in reaffirming their support for Hon. Kafilat Ogbara ahead of the APC primaries scheduled for May 15, 2026.

From the very moment Hon. Kafilat Ogbara arrived at the venue, the hall erupted in loud cheers, songs of praise and chants of “Mama Kosofe!”, “Yeye Sewa!”, and “No Vacancy in Kosofe!” as hundreds of party members and supporters rose to welcome her with visible joy and genuine affection.

The energy in the hall reflected the deep connection the lawmaker has built with the grassroots through her impactful representation, accessibility and people-centered leadership.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Hon. Adetola Adunni Abubakar, publicly reaffirmed her unwavering support for the second term ambition of Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, describing her as “a dependable voice of the people and a true ambassador of Kosofe Federal Constituency.”

According to Hon. Adetola:

“Hon. Kafilat Ogbara has represented Kosofe with passion, courage, intelligence and results. She has remained connected to the people and has continued to facilitate impactful programmes and interventions across our communities. As Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, we are united in our support for her second term because leadership with results deserves continuity.”

The endorsement was echoed by APC leaders across the LCDA, ward chairmen from Wards A to G, party executives, elders and community stakeholders who unanimously assured Hon. Ogbara of their total support and votes during the APC primaries and beyond.

Many speakers at the event praised the federal lawmaker for her legislative excellence, women empowerment programmes, youth development initiatives, educational support projects, healthcare interventions and her strong advocacy for social development at the National Assembly.

Stakeholders noted that under Hon. Ogbara’s representation, Kosofe Federal Constituency has witnessed quality democratic dividends and stronger federal presence.

During her emotional address, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara expressed deep appreciation to the people and leadership of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA for the overwhelming love, endorsement and confidence reposed in her.

Clearly moved by the massive show of support, she thanked the Executive Chairman, party leaders and residents for standing firmly with her political journey.

“I do not take this love for granted. The support and trust from the people of Agboyi-Ketu and the entire Kosofe Federal Constituency continue to inspire me to do more. Together, we have achieved a lot, but there is still more work to be done. By the grace of God, we will continue to build a stronger and more progressive Kosofe,” she stated.

The gathering ended with loud chants of solidarity, renewed commitment to the APC and strong declarations of support for the re-election of Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, further cementing what many political observers described as a powerful grassroots movement ahead of the APC primaries.

Indeed, the message from Agboyi-Ketu LCDA was clear and unmistakable Hon. Kafilat Ogbara remains the people’s choice.

World Malaria Day 2026: Oyo Govt Intensifies Prevention, Free Healthcare Services

The Oyo State Government through the State Primary Health Care Board has commemorated the 2026 World Malaria Day with a series of impactful activities aimed at strengthening public awareness, promoting preventive healthcare practices, and reducing the burden of malaria across communities in the state.

The commemoration, themed *“Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must,”* featured a colorful awareness rally, free malaria testing services, and the distribution of free antimalarial drugs to residents, particularly vulnerable groups within various communities. 

The event attracted health professionals, community leaders, stakeholders, women groups, youths, and residents who participated actively in the campaign against malaria.

The awareness rally moved through major parts of the community with participants displaying educational placards and sensitizing residents on the importance of environmental sanitation, proper hygiene, and the use of preventive measures such as insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

The event further provided an opportunity for residents to access free malaria screening and treatment services, thereby encouraging early detection and prompt medical intervention.

 

Health workers at the venue also offered counselling and health education sessions to participants.

Speaking at the rally, Dr. Abiodun Akande, the Director Special Duties, who represented the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji, charged residents of the Community and other beneficiaries to remain vigilant in the fight against malaria by embracing preventive measures and maintaining clean environments.

He advised residents to ensure proper waste disposal, clear drainage channels around their homes, and avoid practices that encourage mosquito breeding, stressing that environmental cleanliness plays a major role in malaria prevention.

He also encouraged community members to make proper use of Primary Health Care facilities within their communities for timely testing, treatment, and other essential healthcare services, noting that early diagnosis remains one of the most effective approaches to malaria control.

Mrs. Grace Omobolanle Dotun-Fasasi, the Malaria Desk Officer, while addressing the gathering, urged pregnant women to register and attend antenatal clinics regularly at the nearest Primary Health Care facilities for proper screening, preventive care, and professional medical attention throughout pregnancy.

She emphasized that early healthcare intervention and routine medical checkups remain critical in protecting both mother and child from malaria-related complications, adding that pregnant women should never ignore symptoms associated with malaria during pregnancy.

Mrs. Dotun-Fasasi further encouraged women and caregivers to take advantage of government healthcare programmes available at Primary Health Care centres across the state, noting that accessible healthcare remains a key strategy in reducing maternal and child mortality.

The World Malaria Day commemoration once again reflected the unwavering commitment of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board to promoting quality healthcare delivery, protecting vulnerable populations, and sustaining healthier communities across Oyo State through continuous health awareness, disease prevention, and accessible healthcare services.

OYRTMA Announces Traffic Diversion for Unity Mega Rally in Ibadan

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has announced a temporary traffic diversion around Oja’ba and Bere Roundabout in Ibadan ahead of the Unity Mega Rally 2026 scheduled for Thursday, May 14, 2026.

According to the agency, the diversion will take effect from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to ensure free movement, maintain order, and prevent traffic congestion during the rally.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd),motorists and pedestrians were informed that the route from Oja’ba Central Mosque Junction to Bere Roundabout Junction would be temporarily closed throughout the duration of the event.

Adekoya explained that the measure became necessary to avoid gridlock, disorder, and unnecessary delays often associated with large public gatherings.

To ease movement within the metropolis, he  advised motorists to make use of alternative routes.

Road users coming from the Gate–Oje axis were directed to ply Bere Roundabout through Oranyan, Agbongbon Junction, and Idi Arere. Another alternative route provided is through Bere Roundabout, Orita Merin, Born Photo Junction, and Idi Arere.

Motorists approaching from the Molete axis were advised to use the Idi Arere–Agbongbon–Oranyan corridor leading to Bere Roundabout or Labiran Junction.

Chairman also appealed to participants attending the Unity Mega Rally not to drive vehicles or motorcycles to the venue in order to reduce traffic pressure and avoid parking difficulties.

Adesagba further assured residents that traffic officers and other security agencies would be strategically deployed across affected areas to manage traffic flow and ensure the safety of lives and property during the rally.

The authority reiterated that its priority remains reducing traffic congestion and guaranteeing public safety throughout the exercise.