Land Dispute: Ibadan Resident Accuses Oluyole LG of Plot Revocation, Appeals to Makinde

A resident of Ibadan, Adeshina Azeez, has appealed to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, civil society organisations and relevant authorities to intervene in an alleged land dispute involving the Oluyole Local Government Council.

Azeez alleged that the council was attempting to revoke and reallocate portions of a five-plot property he claimed to have legally acquired for a hotel investment.

He specifically mentioned the Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Akeem Olatunji, and the council’s Director of Estate, Mrs Bukola Wurola-Esan, in connection with the alleged revocation.

According to Azeez, the property was acquired during the administration of the late former Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, and when Abass Aleshinloye was chairman of the local government.

He said his acquisition was supported by documentation and that he had made a payment of N245,000 through an order processed by the council’s Director of Estate.

Azeez further stated that the property had already been secured with perimeter fencing and a gate before the dispute emerged.

The complainant said the controversy began during discussions surrounding the 500-metre corridor of Governor Makinde’s Circular Road project, adding that the affected properties were expected to be considered in the state government’s decision on the project.

He alleged, however, that instead of waiting for the outcome of the process, the local government moved to revoke part of his property.

The situation, according to him, escalated about a month ago when some individuals allegedly entered the fenced property and commenced excavation and construction activities.

Azeez claimed the individuals told him they had purchased the land from the local government.

He said the matter was subsequently reported to the Idi-Ayunre Police Station, where the Divisional Police Officer reportedly intervened and directed that construction activities be stopped after it was established that the individuals had entered the property by jumping over the perimeter fence.

Azeez said that following the police intervention, he received a letter from the local government informing him that three of the five plots had been revoked.

The dispute was further complicated, he alleged, when council officials requested the original copies of his purchase receipts and asked him to produce the original seller at the council secretariat.

Azeez said he declined to surrender the original documents on the advice of his lawyers, but offered photographic copies of the documents for verification. According to him, the council rejected the copies.

Efforts by community leaders, including Baba Oloye Fijabi Akiade and several Ibadan Mogajis, to mediate in the dispute have also reportedly failed to completely resolve the matter.

Azeez alleged that despite the ongoing review and interventions, individuals have continued to return to the disputed property to carry out work.

He is therefore calling for an immediate and transparent investigation into the matter, insisting that due process should be followed in determining the ownership and status of the affected property.

The complainant also appealed to Governor Makinde to intervene and prevent further escalation of the dispute pending the conclusion of any official investigation or determination regarding the property.

However, at the time of filing this report, the Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Akeem Olatunji, and the council had not publicly responded to the allegations. Their responses will be reported when made available.

Prophet Ikuru Predicts Adeleke’s Re-election, Tinubu’s 2027 Victory

The Founder and General Overseer of Jehovah Eye Salvation Ministry, Lagos, Prophet Godwin Ikuru, has predicted the re-election of Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, in the forthcoming governorship election.

Speaking on the political developments ahead of the poll, Prophet Ikuru said he had received a revelation indicating that Adeleke would emerge victorious and secure a second term in office.

According to the cleric, the revelation featured a scenario in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) attempted to throw a ball into a basket but failed to score. He said that when Governor Adeleke subsequently threw his own ball, it went straight into the basket.

Ikuru interpreted the revelation as a sign that Adeleke would retain the governorship of Osun State.

The prophet also recalled that he had predicted Adeleke’s victory during the governor’s first-term election, noting that the prediction eventually came to pass.

However, Ikuru expressed disappointment that Adeleke had not remembered or acknowledged the prophet who, according to him, had foretold his electoral victory.

The cleric also turned his attention to the 2027 general election, predicting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would win a second term in office.

He urged Nigerians to continue praying for the President, particularly for long life and good health, as the country prepares for the next general election.

On the political outlook in the South-West, Ikuru further predicted victories for the APC in Lagos and Ogun States.

He called on political leaders and citizens to remain prayerful and committed to peace, stressing the need for a peaceful and stable electoral process as the country approaches the forthcoming elections.

The predictions remain the personal views and prophecies of the cleric and are not independently verifiable

NIGERIA SHINES AT THE 2nd AFRICA SCOUT MOOT AS CULTURE, ADVENTURE AND LEADERSHIP TAKE CENTRE STAGE

    

 From vibrant cultural displays to historic expeditions and wellness activities, the 2nd Africa Scout Moot has continued to offer unforgettable experiences for hundreds of Scouts gathered from across Africa to strengthen the hands of friendship, leadership and continental unity.

        

The International gathering has become a melting pot of cultures where participants are not only learning from one another but also reaffirming the core values of Scouting through service, adventure, peace building and cross cultural understanding.

       

 The Nigeria Contingents,led by the Chief Commissioner of The Scout Association of Nigeria (TSAN) Dr Zack Ekanola commenced the prestigious event by proudly flying the Nigerian flag alongside other Contigents who also represented their countries well through flag flying.

         

Since their arrival at the Moot, the Nigerian Contigents have immersed themselves in the diverse programs designed to inspire leadership, encourage teamwork and foster lasting friendships among people from different African Nations.

      

 One of the most colorful moments of the Moot was the much anticipated cultural day,where Contigents transformed the venue into a showcase of Africa's rich cultural heritage. Participants displayed their countries' customs,arts,crafts, cuisines and indigenous traditions.

       

 The Nigeria  Contingents proudly presented the country's rich cultural diversity, colourful traditions and hospitality, they cooked and shared the delicious Nigerian Jollof rice, giving fellow Scouts from different countries an opportunity to experience a taste of Nigeria.

         

Beyond the cultural celebrations, participants also embraced wellness and personal development through optional fitness sessions, including Yoga, aerobics, dance fitness and other recreational activities.

     

 These sessions did not only promote Physical fitness and mental well being,it also strengthened bond among Scouts from different cultural backgrounds.

     

 Another memorable highlight for the Nigeria Contingents was a historic visit to Modderfontein, where they joined world renowned Scouting leaders to trace the roots of Scouting in South Africa.Led by Dr Zack Ekanola, the Contigents participated in the excursion alongside David Berg, World Scout Secretary General, Frederic Tutu Kama Kama, Africa Scout Region Director and Leonilda Lima.

       

 While adding greater significance to the historic excursion, the participants retraced the footsteps of Scouting founder,Lord Robert Baden Powell in Modderfontein. The tour included a visit to his former residence and historic block house where some of the early ideas that later shaped the Scout promise and Law were conceived. 

     

 The experience offered participants a rare opportunity to connect with the origins of the global Scout Movement, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring values that continue to inspire millions of Scouts worldwide.

    

The Journey also provided participants with a broader appreciation of South Africa's rich history and cultural heritage. They drove past the iconic FNB Stadium, Africa's largest stadium and the venue of the 2010 FIFA World Cup final before making their way to the renowned Vilakazi Street in Soweto.

    

After sampling popular South African delicacies, including the famous braai and Gatsby sandwich, the Scouts embarked on a guided tour of the historic street, the only street in the World to have been former home to two Nobel laureates Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

        

The excursion culminated with a visit to the Mandela House Museum where participants explored the former home of Nelson Mandela and gained the deeper insights into South Africa's struggle for freedom, justice and equality.

        

The visit inspired reflection on the shared values of courage, resilience, service and leadership that unite Scouting with the enduring legacy of Africa's liberation heroes.

 

For the young Nigerian Scouts, the Moot is more than just a camp,it is a life changing journey of discovery, leadership and international brotherhood that will leave lasting memories long after the event concludes

NIGERIA SHINES AT THE 2nd AFRICA SCOUT MOOT AS CULTURE, ADVENTURE AND LEADERSHIP TAKE CENTRE STAGE

    

 From vibrant cultural displays to historic expeditions and wellness activities, the 2nd Africa Scout Moot has continued to offer unforgettable experiences for hundreds of Scouts gathered from across Africa to strengthen the hands of friendship, leadership and continental unity.

        

The International gathering has become a melting pot of cultures where participants are not only learning from one another but also reaffirming the core values of Scouting through service, adventure, peace building and cross cultural understanding.

       

 The Nigeria Contingents,led by the Chief Commissioner of The Scout Association of Nigeria (TSAN) Dr Zack Ekanola commenced the prestigious event by proudly flying the Nigerian flag alongside other Contigents who also represented their countries well through flag flying.

         

Since their arrival at the Moot, the Nigerian Contigents have immersed themselves in the diverse programs designed to inspire leadership, encourage teamwork and foster lasting friendships among people from different African Nations.

      

 One of the most colorful moments of the Moot was the much anticipated cultural day,where Contigents transformed the venue into a showcase of Africa's rich cultural heritage. Participants displayed their countries' customs,arts,crafts, cuisines and indigenous traditions.

       

 The Nigeria  Contingents proudly presented the country's rich cultural diversity, colourful traditions and hospitality, they cooked and shared the delicious Nigerian Jollof rice, giving fellow Scouts from different countries an opportunity to experience a taste of Nigeria.

         

Beyond the cultural celebrations, participants also embraced wellness and personal development through optional fitness sessions, including Yoga, aerobics, dance fitness and other recreational activities.

     

 These sessions did not only promote Physical fitness and mental well being,it also strengthened bond among Scouts from different cultural backgrounds.

     

 Another memorable highlight for the Nigeria Contingents was a historic visit to Modderfontein, where they joined world renowned Scouting leaders to trace the roots of Scouting in South Africa.Led by Dr Zack Ekanola, the Contigents participated in the excursion alongside David Berg, World Scout Secretary General, Frederic Tutu Kama Kama, Africa Scout Region Director and Leonilda Lima.

       

 While adding greater significance to the historic excursion, the participants retraced the footsteps of Scouting founder,Lord Robert Baden Powell in Modderfontein. The tour included a visit to his former residence and historic block house where some of the early ideas that later shaped the Scout promise and Law were conceived. 

     

 The experience offered participants a rare opportunity to connect with the origins of the global Scout Movement, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring values that continue to inspire millions of Scouts worldwide.

    

The Journey also provided participants with a broader appreciation of South Africa's rich history and cultural heritage. They drove past the iconic FNB Stadium, Africa's largest stadium and the venue of the 2010 FIFA World Cup final before making their way to the renowned Vilakazi Street in Soweto.

    

After sampling popular South African delicacies, including the famous braai and Gatsby sandwich, the Scouts embarked on a guided tour of the historic street, the only street in the World to have been former home to two Nobel laureates Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

        

The excursion culminated with a visit to the Mandela House Museum where participants explored the former home of Nelson Mandela and gained the deeper insights into South Africa's struggle for freedom, justice and equality.

        

The visit inspired reflection on the shared values of courage, resilience, service and leadership that unite Scouting with the enduring legacy of Africa's liberation heroes.

 

For the young Nigerian Scouts, the Moot is more than just a camp,it is a life changing journey of discovery, leadership and international brotherhood that will leave lasting memories long after the event concludes

Oyo Govt, UNICEF Strengthen Grassroots Child Protection, Train Community Stakeholders To Safeguard Children

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and other development partners, has intensified efforts to strengthen child protection at the grassroots by equipping community stakeholders with the knowledge, skills and coordination mechanisms needed to prevent and respond effectively to child protection concerns across the state.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Alhaja Faosat Joke Sanni, stated this at the opening of a five-day training programme on Community-Based Child Protection Structures (CBCPS), organised by the ministry in partnership with UNICEF at the Local Government Staff Training School, Hall B, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner described child protection as a collective responsibility that extends beyond government, stressing that sustainable results can only be achieved through strong partnerships and active community participation.

She commended participants for accepting the responsibility of serving as advocates and defenders of children's rights in their respective communities.

"Children are the foundation of every prosperous society and the future upon which sustainable development depends. Yet, many continue to suffer abuse, neglect, exploitation, violence, child labour, trafficking and other harmful practices that threaten their survival and development. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated, proactive and community-driven responses that place the best interests of every child at the centre of all interventions," she said.

According to the Commissioner, the establishment and strengthening of Community-Based Child Protection Structures is a strategic step toward making child protection services more accessible, responsive, inclusive and sustainable at the community level.

"By empowering communities to identify risks early and respond appropriately, we can build safer environments where every child is protected and given the opportunity to thrive," she added.

Alhaja Sanni reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration to promoting the welfare, protection and development of women, children and other vulnerable groups through strategic policies, programmes and partnerships that continue to strengthen the state's child protection system.

She also appreciated UNICEF for its sustained technical and financial support, describing the organisation as a dependable partner in advancing children's rights and building resilient child protection systems in Oyo State.

The Commissioner urged participants to maximise the training by embracing collaboration, sharing experiences and applying the knowledge gained to strengthen community structures, support vulnerable families and ensure timely responses to child protection cases.

She noted that the ultimate goal is to build a child-friendly Oyo State where every child enjoys safety, dignity, protection and equal opportunities to realise his or her full potential.

Delivering a lecture titled "Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and Understanding Child Protection," UNICEF Child Protection Specialist, Mr. Denis Onoise, urged participants to intensify efforts to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse while promoting safe and protective environments for children.

He emphasised that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility that requires the active involvement of individuals, institutions and communities.

Mr. Onoise encouraged participants to put the knowledge acquired during the training into practice, stressing that the safety, welfare and protection of children must always remain a priority.

He explained that Community-Based Child Protection Structures are critical to ensuring that child protection services are accessible at the grassroots, where most child protection concerns first emerge.

"By strengthening these structures, UNICEF is supporting the government to empower communities to identify vulnerable children early, prevent abuse and exploitation, and ensure timely referral and response to cases requiring intervention," he said.

Mr. Onoise noted that UNICEF works with governments and communities by strengthening existing child protection systems and building local capacity rather than replacing government institutions.

He added that the organisation's primary role is to support governments and communities in developing sustainable, community-owned and well-coordinated child protection systems capable of safeguarding every child.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Oluyinka Shotonwa Roagess, said the training reflects the shared commitment of government and development partners to ensuring that every child grows up in a safe, nurturing and protective environment.

She described the programme as another milestone in strengthening community ownership of child protection interventions and promoting coordinated responses to child protection issues across Oyo State.

According to her, Community-Based Child Protection Structures serve as the first point of contact for identifying vulnerable children, preventing abuse and exploitation, and ensuring timely referrals for appropriate interventions.

Mrs. Roagess explained that the five-day training was designed to deepen participants' understanding of child protection principles, national and state legal frameworks, safeguarding standards, case identification and referral pathways, community engagement strategies, as well as the roles and responsibilities of Community-Based Child Protection Structures.

Also speaking, the Director of Child Welfare, Mr. Gbemileke Ojerinde, described the training as timely, noting that strengthening community-based child protection mechanisms has become increasingly important in tackling abuse, neglect, exploitation, violence, trafficking and other threats confronting children.

He said Community-Based Child Protection Structures provide the first line of support for children and families by identifying vulnerable children, preventing violations of their rights, facilitating timely referrals and promoting effective collaboration among government agencies, community leaders, service providers and development partners.

Mr. Ojerinde encouraged participants to actively engage throughout the training by sharing experiences, asking questions and building stronger professional networks.

He emphasised that the success of Community-Based Child Protection Structures depends not only on the knowledge acquired during the training but also on the commitment of stakeholders to work together in protecting children and promoting their well-being across communities in Oyo State.

Participants at the training were drawn from Community-based organizations, community leaders, youths, and community security architecture among others.

YERP: Oyo, ICMPD Advance Sustainable Reintegration, Rural Youth Development Through Agriculture

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, agricultural transformation, and sustainable development through a strategic partnership with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and other key stakeholders in the implementation of the Youth Empowerment and Reintegration Project (YERP).

The project is aimed at addressing youth unemployment, supporting the sustainable reintegration of returnees, and creating economic opportunities through agriculture as a means of strengthening rural communities and promoting inclusive development across the state.

Speaking at the ongoing three-day Reintegration Committee/Stakeholders Consultation on Youth Empowerment and Reintegration Project (YERP), held at Golden Tulip Hotel, Ibadan, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, described the initiative as a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and strengthening agricultural development in rural communities.

He explained that agriculture remains a key driver of economic growth and rural development, stressing that equipping young people with relevant skills, resources, and opportunities would not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute significantly to food security and community development.

Barrister Olaleye further stated that the Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has continued to prioritise youth empowerment, agricultural transformation, and initiatives that provide sustainable economic opportunities for citizens.

Olasunkanmi expressed optimism that YERP would complement existing government efforts by equipping youths and returnees with the necessary support to become productive contributors to the agricultural value chain.

He however, commended the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the Government of Denmark, and other stakeholders for their support, noting that the project aligns with the Oyo State Government’s vision of creating opportunities for young people and enhancing economic empowerment through agriculture.

In his remarks, the Project Manager, Youth Empowerment and Reintegration Project (YERP) at the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Mr. Tunde Omoyeni, said the project was designed to address youth unemployment, support the sustainable reintegration of returnees, and tackle the underlying drivers of irregular migration.

Mr. Omoyeni explained that YERP would create sustainable livelihood opportunities through agriculture by providing young people and returnees with access to land, climate-smart agricultural training, cooperative development, market linkages, and other livelihood support interventions.

He noted that the project goes beyond reintegration by generating evidence through research to inform improved policies and programmes on youth empowerment and migration management, stressing that the success of the initiative depends on strong collaboration among government institutions, communities, civil society organisations, development partners, and other stakeholders.

In his remarks, the South West Zonal Coordinator, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Mr. Alex Oturu, commended the partnership among the Oyo State Government, ICMPD, and other stakeholders in addressing migration challenges through sustainable solutions.

Mr. Oturu noted that sustainable reintegration of returnees extends beyond their return to communities, stressing the importance of economic empowerment, skills development, and access to productive opportunities that enable them to rebuild their lives.

He reaffirmed NCFRMI’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote safe, orderly, and regular migration while addressing the root causes of irregular migration through community-based interventions.

The Zonal Coordinator added that YERP would strengthen collaboration among government institutions, development partners, and communities in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for youths and returnees.

The consultation brought together government officials, development partners, community representatives, youth groups, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on effective strategies for the successful implementation of the project in Ilero and Awe communities of Oyo State.

The engagement also featured discussions on baseline assessment and community mapping exercises in Ilero and Awe communities, with stakeholders contributing insights and local knowledge to guide effective project implementation.

Timothy Olufemi Commends Governor Makinde for Fulfilling Promise to Isiah Daisi Cheshire, Hails Unprecedented Support for Persons with Disabilities

The Executive Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Timothy Olufemi, has expressed profound appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for fulfilling his promise to provide a house for Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire, describing the gesture as yet another testament to the Governor’s integrity, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities in Oyo State.

Hon. Olufemi recalled that during the Special Evening with Elderly Women and Persons with Disabilities held at Omololu Olunloyo Park, Ibadan, Governor Makinde publicly assured Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire that he would provide him with a house. He noted with great delight that the Governor has fulfilled that promise, once again demonstrating that *his word is his bond*

According to Hon. Olufemi, “Governor Seyi Makinde is a leader who does not merely make promises; he fulfils them. The presentation of a house to Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire is another remarkable example of his genuine love and concern for persons with disabilities. 

He further stated that Governor Makinde’s administration has recorded unprecedented achievements in advancing the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Oyo State.

“Under Governor Makinde’s administration, countless persons with disabilities have benefited from life-changing interventions, including the provision of land, houses, vehicles, empowerment programmes, employment opportunities, and appointments into strategic positions at both the state and local government levels. These are not mere policies on paper—they are practical demonstrations of inclusive governance.”

Hon. Olufemi also acknowledged that he is personally a beneficiary of Governor Makinde’s commitment to disability inclusion.

“I am a living testimony to the Governor’s sincerity and dedication to empowering persons with disabilities. His administration has given many of us opportunities to serve, contribute, and make meaningful impacts in society. For this, I remain deeply grateful.”

He noted that the appointment of persons with disabilities into positions of responsibility has given the disability community a stronger voice in governance and has inspired many young people living with disabilities to believe that ability, not disability, should define one’s future.

Hon. Olufemi expressed confidence that Governor Makinde’s inclusive style of leadership would be replicated on a national scale if given the opportunity to serve Nigeria at a higher level.

“We are convinced that if Governor Seyi Makinde is entrusted with greater national responsibility, persons with disabilities across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory will enjoy greater recognition, representation, and opportunities. His record in Oyo State gives us every reason to believe that disability inclusion will remain a top priority under his leadership.”

He concluded by appreciating the Governor for his consistency and humility to building an Oyo State where everyone, regardless of physical ability, has the opportunity to thrive.

On behalf of the disability community in Oyo State, Hon. Olufemi offered prayers for Governor Makinde, asking God to continue to grant him wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance as he continues to serve the people with integrity and compassion.

Hon. Olufemi further addressed the misconception held by some individuals that Governor Makinde’s support for persons with disabilities is merely aimed at gaining public approval ahead of future elections. He emphasized that such a perception does not reflect the reality of the Governor’s long-standing commitment to the disability community.

“Many of the life-changing interventions carried out by Governor Seyi Makinde for persons with disabilities were never publicized. Several beneficiaries have received financial assistance, educational support, medical interventions, employment opportunities, land, houses, vehicles, and other forms of empowerment without media attention or public announcements. The Governor has consistently chosen to make a difference in people’s lives without seeking recognition for every act of kindness.