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By Our Correspondent  An Ondo-based Tungba crooner, Fadahun Oluwasiji Abel popularly known as Abel Praise, has released a heartfelt message to his fans and lovers of music, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support . In a statement signed by his Media Aide, Murphy Joe, Abel Praise thanked his fans for their love and encouragement, which has fueled his passion for music upon inception.  The musician highlighted the importance of spreading the message of hope and redemption through his music, and he prayed that his songs would continue to inspire and uplift his listeners.  "Abel Praise's music has been a source of inspiration to many in Ondo State and beyond. His songs are a reflection of his faith and his desire to share God's love with the world. The musician's message to his fans is a testament to his humility and appreciation for their support. "I also pray for God's blessings and protection over my fans, May you continue to walk in the light of ...

Prof. (Mrs.) Victoria Kikelomo Olugbemi has advocated a complete departure from Eurocentric political systems in Nigeria, urging African leaders to embrace indigenous governance frameworks rooted in precolonial traditions, gender equity, and cultural values as a foundation for national stability and sustainable development. Olugbemi, a professor of Socio-Cultural History and Gender Studies, made the call on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, while delivering the 40th Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. She said, “African civilization remains the most enduring in history. Therefore, African leaders should have a complete shift from modelling their political systems after European structures and instead adopt indigenous frameworks to accelerate development of Africa's local and regional development. “The National Assembly should shift their focus from looking outside Nigeria and Africa for suitable political system if we want Nigeria to become a d...

Happy birthday to an Imperial Prince of Akure Kingdom, Chief promoter and advocate of Aiyedatiwa-led administration, Ebenezer Adeniyan. Today marks a special day, a celebration of your life, leadership, and dedication to public service. As Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State, you have played a vital role in shaping the narrative and communicating the government's vision to the people. Your professionalism, expertise, and passion for efficient and effective communication have earned you respect and admiration from colleagues and the public alike. We are grateful for your tireless efforts in promoting the state's progress and development. Wishing you a wonderful celebration and a bright future ahead.Grow up great! Pastor Taiwo Gbamila, Senior Special Assistant to the Gov.

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared a firm and decisive war against land grabbing and related crimes in the State, as he inaugurated the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing on Wednesday. The Governor announced strict penalties for land-related offenses, including up to 21 years’ imprisonment for unlawful resale of properties and 10 years for forceful land acquisition or encroachment. “Land is more than just property. It is our heritage, a birthright, and the foundation of community identity. We will not stand by and allow criminal elements to rob our people of what rightfully belongs to them,” he said. The Governor expressed concern over the increasing cases of violent land disputes, illegal occupation, fraudulent resale of land, and the imposition of unregulated charges by individuals operating under the guise of “Omo-Onile.”  He noted that such activities have led to displacement, conflict, and a breakdown of order in...

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared a firm and decisive war against land grabbing and related crimes in the State, as he inaugurated the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing on Wednesday. The Governor announced strict penalties for land-related offenses, including up to 21 years’ imprisonment for unlawful resale of properties and 10 years for forceful land acquisition or encroachment. “Land is more than just property. It is our heritage, a birthright, and the foundation of community identity. We will not stand by and allow criminal elements to rob our people of what rightfully belongs to them,” he said. The Governor expressed concern over the increasing cases of violent land disputes, illegal occupation, fraudulent resale of land, and the imposition of unregulated charges by individuals operating under the guise of “Omo-Onile.”  He noted that such activities have led to displacement, conflict, and a breakdown of order in...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  Some Ibadan-based lawyers have expressed mixed reactions over the judiciary sector at state and federal levels as President Bola Tinubu marked his second-year anniversary. They bared their minds in interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Ibadan, while assessing the performances of government in delivering justice to Nigerians. Mr Ibrahim Lawal, Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan branch, said despite the tackling the herculean economic challenges, government needed to do more for the citizens to enjoy better justice delivery services. “The people are grappling with delayed justice delivery including the problems of poverty, insecurity, loss of jobs, unemployment, among others and government should do more to make the people happy,’’ he said. He also stressed the need for proper funding of the judiciary. The NBA Ibadan chairman said that the Judiciary in the state was still a far cry from what it ought to be. “Ma...

The Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa has reaffirmed his commitment to providing an enabling environment for women to explore and fulfill their potential The Governor was represented by the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Dr. (Mrs) Seun Osamaye, at the Women and Youth Empowerment by Friendsociates in collaboration with the National Council for Women Societies NCWS at the Dome in Akure on Wednesday. The Governor announced that a weeklong Empowerment program for women would be taking place in the state to further boost women’s economic viability as a commitment of his administration to the people of Ondo state. Dr Aiyedatiwa said that the government was also committed to quality Healthcare delivery for women and Free medical care in rural communities. The Governor assured that the Odatiwa administration would tap into all resources including the renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu OON CON agenda on Agricultural Empowerment proje...

All is now set for the 41st Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, which will be delivered by a distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Solomon Akinyemi Laleye.   According to a statement by the Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, the lecture is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in the University Multipurpose Hall.   Titled “The Ethics of Complementarity and the Third Face of the Coin: An Indispensable Route to Integral Human Development”, the lecture will commence at 2:00 PM, with guests expected to be seated by 1:30 PM. The event will be chaired by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Olugbenga Ige.   Prof. Laleye obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 1992 from the then Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti; a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration from Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto in 1998; and both a Master’s and Ph.D. in Philosophy...

Liberian lawmaker and ECOWAS Parliamentarian, Hon. Moima Briggs-Mensah, has raised concerns over the ongoing legal battle between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio .  Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months and faces criminal prosecution. Briggs-Mensah emphasised that the case is not just a personal struggle but touches on the dignity, freedom, and political space of all women in West Africa. She made the call at the ongoing First Ordinary Session of  ECOWAS Parliamentarians in Abuja.  "What happens to one woman in public service should matter to us all. Hon. Natasha's case is about every woman's right to speak, to lead, and to serve without fear or intimidation," Hon. Briggs Mensah stated during one of the plenary sessions. Senator Natasha as one of the members of the Nigerian delegations at the ECOWAS Parliament couldn't participate in the session due to her six suspension and the Liberian lawmaker felt it was time for th...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   The Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan has condemned the sealing of St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral, Oke Padre, the seat of the Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan, over alleged environmental pollution. The Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Ibadan that officials of the State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources sealed the premises of the cathedral on Tuesday. He said that the officials also imposed a N500,000 fine on the church over alleged toilet pollution. Abegunrin said that the officials had initially locked up the toilet of the school situated inside the Cathedral on Monday, without notice to the church. He said that the ministry claimed that its action followed a petition by unidentified persons in the neighbourhood that two persons allegedly died due to the pollution of the environment. Abegunrin, who rebutted the allegation, said that the petition was how...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan Archdiocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, on Wednesday urged media practitioners and journalists to uphold truth and nobility on their platforms . Abegunrin made the appeal at a news conference organised by the Archdiocese to celebrate 2025 World Communications Day in Ibadan. The archbishop enjoined media practitioners to ensure that their voices carried messages of hope and unity, not fear and division. He urged all the faithful to always share hope, kindness, and witness Jesus Christ through their conversations. Abegunrin advised journalists to allow their stories to reflect the gentleness of Christ and the hope within. “To our dear journalists and media practitioners, you have a sacred duty; your words and images can build or break society,” he said. He urged media practitioners to ensure they fished out the untutored, unprofessional practitioners who spread false news. The cleric enjoined journalists to always...

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that the state government is fully committed to the successful take-off of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) Teaching Hospital in Akure. He made this assertion on Sunday while receiving members of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Health Institutions at the Government House, Alagbaka, Akure. Governor Aiyedatiwa, while welcoming the committee led by its Chairman, Hon. Patrick Umoh, said the state has already ceded one of its specialist hospitals to serve as a temporary facility for the take-off of the federal teaching hospital. According to the governor, land has also been made available by the Ondo State government for the development of the project’s permanent site.  Governor Aiyedatiwa affirmed that his administration is ready to offer all necessary support to ensure the swift and successful establishment of the institution. He expressed optimism that the oversight visit by the co...

A clash between rival court groups has left four persons dead  in Ondo town, Ondo Local Government area of Ondo State on Tuesday evening. During the clash, the deceased were shot around Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in the Oka area of the city by masked men suspected to be members of a rival cult group. Eyewitnesses said three members of the Ẹiyẹ confraternity were shot dead in a bloody clash that occurred at Ife Garage, while one was killed at Sabo, in front of a local shop popularly known as “Mama Shop.” Spokesperson of the police command,  Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident  He described the deceased as notorious cult members who had been on the police command’s wanted list. He said, “The command can confirm the murder of four people and five injured, all of whom belong to one cult group or the other. I want to appeal to members of the community to go about their lawful businesses without fear or panic. Security agencies are on ground to protect lives and pr...

A sports journalist in Ondo State, Mr. Femi Atolagbe, has taken legal action against a football coach, Kayode Julius, over allegations of defamation of character. Mr. Atolagbe is suing Coach Julius following a damaging message allegedly posted by the latter on a WhatsApp group platform known as Ondostatefootballstakeholders. The post, made with mobile number +2349126428876, claimed that the journalist had impregnated a female football player. According to the post, Julius further attacked Atolagbe’s professional integrity, stating: “You are a quack journalist and you are responsible for the relegation of Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens because of drinking habit, womanizing, giving wrong advice, planting hatred in other people, and poisoning the mind of the management against others.” Reacting through his counsel, Mr. Atolagbe said the defamatory publication was made in a group with over 1,000 members, causing significant damage to his reputation and personal life. “The above publica...

  IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT The NYSC Management is pleased to announce that, call-up numbers for 2025 Batch 'A' Stream 2 Prospective Corps Members will be released within the next 24 hours, based on registration order.  Please, note that due to camp capacity across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT, only about 40 percent of registered Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) can be accommodated for the upcoming orientation programme.  Rest assured, those not accommodated will be automatically moved to 2025 Batch B, which will take place soon after 2025 Batch 'A' Stream 2 exercise.  Management remains committed to ensuring a hitch-free orientation exercise and service year experience for our PCMs.  Thank you.

By Our Correspondent  A commercial motorcyclist, Taiwo Adesooye has shared the harrowing details of how he narrowly escaped death during an armed robbery by motorcycle thieves. In an interview with The Hope Metro, Adesooye recounted the traumatic experience, revealing that he was shot in the left hand during the attack, which left him gravely injured as the assailants fled with his motorcycle. According to him, the incident occurred on May 16, 2025, behind Ogo Oluwa Hospital in Ore, as he was returning home after completing his work. This incident followed a previous tragedy in the area, where another motorcyclist, Nazifi Ibrahim, was brutally murdered by armed robbers who stole his bike. Describing the terrifying ordeal, Adesooye said, “on that evening around 8pm, I had just dropped off a passenger and her child in the Ogooluwa area, hoping to conclude my day’s work. “As I was leaving, I noticed a man approaching a junction. I drove off, thinking that he might hire me for another ...

Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has expressed satisfaction with the quality and level of work done on the ongoing construction of the new Ondo State Judiciary Complex in Akure.  The Governor on Saturday paid an unscheduled inspection visit to the project site at the High Court Complex in Akure, in company of the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr Abiola Olawoye.  The project, named after former Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, was flagged off on December 27, 2024 with 48 weeks completion time. The complex will include a ceremonial court, modular courts, a registry, a library, exhibition buildings, a utility building, and modern parking facilities. It is designed to create a conducive environment for the administration of justice and to speed up the dispensation of justice in Ondo State. Speaking after an inspection of the project, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed optimism that the project will be delivered on schedule....

By Eleniola Bamidele The newly installed Owa Obokun of ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, has disclosed that his foundation has granted scholarships to no fewer than 2000 students across the country. The Paramount ruler of Ijesaland made this disclosure while delivering his inaugural address at his coronation ceremony held on Friday, at the Ilesa Grammar School, Ilesa, Osun State,  His words" Before my endorsement as the new Owa Obokun, as part of my vision to develop Ijesaland, I have sponsored many students across Nigeria. I have on record 2000 students who benefited from this project, " the paramount ruler said. "Many have been empowered, while some have been employed gainfully. Besides, I am confident less than 50 graduates are being incorporated into agriculture and agro alien while some were sent to CSS Global Integrated Farms Nasarawa State where they are being trained by the Israeli  "We are embarking on agricultural business to al...

A professor of Socio-Cultural History and Gender Studies, Victoria Kikelomo Olugbemi is ready to deliver the 40th Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria.  The lecture, titled, "Nation Building in Nigeria: the Historical Intersections of Gender, Religion and Culture", is billed for Tuesday, May 27, 2025.  According to a statement by the Chairman of the University Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Admin.), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the event. The lecture will take place in the University Multipurpose Hall, commencing at 2:00 pm, with guests urged to be seated by 1:30 pm. Prof. (Mrs.) Olugbemi's academic journey includes earning a Bachelor of Arts (Ed.) in History from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, in 1990; a Master's degree in History and International Studies, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in History and International Studies from Adekunle A...

The National Body of Radio, Television,Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) has dissolved the Ondo State Council Executive with immidiate effect. The National Secretariat of the Union therefore appointed 5- Man Caretaker Committee to handle the affairs of the Union until proper election would be conducted. According to letter made available to newsmen and signed by the General Secretary of the Union, Comrade A. Akpausoh, stated that; "In view of the fact that the tenure of the State Council Executive has expired, the National Secretariat writes to convey the dissolution of the State Council Executive with immediate effect. "Be notified that a 5-Man Caretaker Committee has been appointed to handle the affairs of the Union pending when proper elections would be conducted." The Committee is comprised as follows; 1. Comrade Dairo Olufemi (NTA, Akure)-Chairman 2. Comrade Adeboboye Aderonke (Ministry of Culture & Tourism)-Secretary 3. Comrade Akin Akinkugbe ...

Mr Oluwafemi Ojo, the eldest son of Mrs Kehinde Hannah Bodunde, has raised the alarm over threat to his life by his siblings, Olaleye and Oluwayomi Olumoni, following an alleged ritual killing and unapproved burial of their mother . Ojo, who resides in Canada disclosed this in a telephone interview with journalists on Wednesday in Akure. He disclosed that his siblings has suspiciously kept their sick mother away from him, the first born, coincidentally only daughter, Mrs Oluwatayo Yetunde and the whole family, for three years in their house in Afunbiowo,I danre Road in Akure. He added that the mysterious death of his mother was announced on Jan. 13, as his siblings also kept her remains away from the entire family. Ojo, said that the Deji in Council had earlier intervened and respectfully ruled on April 24, 2025 that First Mercy Hospital, Akure should not release the corpse to the two men without the unanimous agreement with him, his elder sister and mother's family. He said that t...

By Our Correspondent  Under the administration of Mr. Paul Ogidi, we have witnessed a tremendous transformation  This assertion was made by the Federal University Oye Ekiti, FUOYE Shield Cooperative Multipurpose Society at the Annual General Meeting held at the Faculty of Arts Hall of the ivory tower of the institution.  Newsline NG learnt that the five-year-old FUOYE Shield Coop has held two Annual General Meetings since its establishment. The President of the Coop Society, Mrs Sasere Ronke Mercy while presenting the report of activities during the stewardship of Mr. Paul Ogidi disclosed that society is the best Coop Society in the history of FUOYE. Her words" To God be the glory for His faithfulness, mercy, and loving kindness towards all the members of this great co-operative Society." "It is with profound joy and gladness that I welcome you to the 2024 Annual General Meeting of this esteemed Society, I, on behalf of the immediate past president, sincerely acknowledg...