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  By Comrade Ayeni Temidayo In a democratic society, governance thrives on trust, and trust is built on transparency. The people of Ondo State are neither naive nor indifferent to how their commonwealth is managed. They are informed citizens who understand that public office is a responsibility, not a privilege shrouded in secrecy. Since assuming office in February 2024, the Honourable Commissioner for Finance in Ondo State, Mrs. Omowunmi Isaac, has yet to provide a comprehensive public account of the state’s financial inflows and outflows. There has been little to no detailed communication on monthly federal allocations, internally generated revenue (IGR), expenditure breakdowns, or the current standing of the state’s accounts. This prolonged silence raises serious concerns about accountability and openness in public financial management. At a time when economic realities demand clarity and prudence, it is not only appropriate but necessary for citizens to ask: What comes into Ond...

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has dismissed reports claiming he has resigned from office, describing them as false and misleading amid rising political speculation about his future. The denial comes against the backdrop of uncertainty following a Federal Government directive requiring political appointees with ambitions for the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions. In a WhatsApp chat with journalists on Tuesday, Adelabu’s Special Assistant on Media, Bolaji Tunji, debunked the claims, insisting that the minister remains fully committed to his duties in the power sector. “The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it,” Tunji said. To further counter the rumour, the media aide circulated images of the alleged resignation letter, clearly marked “fake news.” Findings indicate that the speculation gained momentum following recent comments by the minister, which some observers interpreted as signaling a possible political move. At a pres...

By Coastal Renaissance News The Ondo State chapter of the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), has declared strong support for a centralized approach to oil pipeline security, endorsing the operations of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited as a model for effective monitoring across the Niger Delta region. At a press conference held on Monday in Igbokoda, the administrative headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area, NDYM leaders commended the company’s track record in safeguarding critical oil infrastructure and tackling illegal bunkering. While addressing journalists, the NDYM Chairman in Ondo State, Comrade Busayo Ebiniyi, praised Tantita for its proactive surveillance strategies and tangible impact in reducing pipeline vandalism.  He specifically highlighted the leadership of Government Oweizidei Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, noting that the deployment of well-trained personnel has significantly strengthened security operations in the region. Comrade Ebiniyi also acknowl...

By Coastal Renaissance News The Ondo State chapter of the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), has declared strong support for a centralized approach to oil pipeline security, endorsing the operations of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited as a model for effective monitoring across the Niger Delta region. At a press conference held on Monday in Igbokoda, the administrative headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area, NDYM leaders commended the company’s track record in safeguarding critical oil infrastructure and tackling illegal bunkering. While addressing journalists, the NDYM Chairman in Ondo State, Comrade Busayo Ebiniyi, praised Tantita for its proactive surveillance strategies and tangible impact in reducing pipeline vandalism.  He specifically highlighted the leadership of Government Oweizidei Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, noting that the deployment of well-trained personnel has significantly strengthened security operations in the region. Comrade Ebiniyi also ack...

By Adeseun Adetayo Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will on Wednesday, April 1, lead an estimated 500,000 residents of the state in a walking exercise tagged “Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk.” The walk is scheduled to commence at the Ondo State Government House in Alagbaka by 8: am  and it will be  terminate at the State Sports Complex in Akure, the state capital. This was disclosed in a statement issued to newsmen by the former Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue). Akinrotoye, who serves as the state coordinator of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk, said the event is aimed at showcasing the achievements of President Bola Tinubu, as reflected through the leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa. He noted that President Tinubu has recorded notable strides in governance through initiatives such as the student loan scheme, tax reforms, and the coastal highway project, which passes through Ondo State, among others. According...

By Our Correspondent   The Mega Regioner Overseer, Pastor Ademola Adeniyi has charged Christians to embrace a life of obedience as a fundamental requirement for divine breakthroughs He made known during a sermon at Ori Oke Olukoya programme held at the church auditorium Speaking on the topic “Obedience,” with reference to 1 Samuel 15:22, the cleric emphasized that many believers often focus heavily on prayer while neglecting the importance of living in obedience to God’s Word. He noted that while attending prayer meetings and engaging in spiritual exercises are commendable, they may not yield the desired results if not accompanied by genuine obedience. According to him, the scriptures clearly state that obedience is superior to sacrifice, underscoring God’s preference for a yielded heart over mere religious activities. He explained that disobedience remains a major hindrance to spiritual progress, adding that it has the capacity to delay or completely obstruct breakthroughs th...

In the ongoing drive to enhance efficiency and deepen service delivery, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has relieved all political aides of their duties with immediate effect. Those affected are Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants to the Governor. The Governor thanked them for their contributions to the development of the State thus far and wished them well in their future endeavours. Meanwhile, in a step to strengthen coordination and inject fresh capacity into the administration, about 1000 new aides, from across the 203 wards in the 18 local government areas of the State, will be appointed by the Governor in due course. Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. March 30, 2026 .

The City Boy Movement in Ondo State has inaugurated its state executive council, announcing key appointments at its maiden executive meeting aimed at strengthening the group’s structure and operations. The development, according to a statement issued on Monday by the movement’s Director of Media and Communications, Oluyemi Fasipe, marks a significant step towards consolidating its presence and coordinating activities across the state. At the meeting, Oluwafemi Ayejusunle was named State Director, while Hon. Tomide Akinribido emerged as State Coordinator. Fasipe was also confirmed as Director of Media and Communications, with Hon. Princess Wunmi Fayemi appointed as State Women Coordinator and Temitope Iwagun as State Treasurer. Other members of the executive include Paul Adeniyi as State Zonal Coordinator (Central), Abiodun Oriade as Director of Special Duties, and Dr. Omosehin Adeyemi-Osowe as Head of Medical Directorate. The statement added that Lemuel Akinyele, Olabode Asogbon, and T...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   Ambassador Kehinde Akande, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan South-West Local Government, Oyo state, on Monday distributed motorcycles to all ward chairmen and party faithful across the LGA. Akande said the distribution is aimed at complementing Gov. Seyi Makinde’s good deeds and improved welfare packages for the people. The chairman added that it is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and enhance party development, which includes selected career officers of the local government. Akande, while addressing the mammoth crowd at the event which took place at the LG secretariat, Ibadan, described Makinde as the “world best governor”. He noted that the governor contributed immensely to the growth and development of Oyo state through unprecedented development and achievements. According to him, the achievements include the distribution of motorcycle to 33 local governments in the state for the growth of the pa...

RESIGNATION AS DIRECTOR GENERAL, PERFORMANCE AND PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION MONITORING UNIT  I hereby tender my resignation from the position of Director-General, Performance and Project Implementation Monitoring Unit (PPIMU), to which I was graciously appointed in November 2025.  This decision stems from my commitment to answer the call of the good people of Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency, who have urged me to represent them in the House of Representatives.  Since my first aspiration for this office in 2011, their appeal has grown Stronger with the passage of time. Today, that call has become even more compelling, as they earnestly desire qualitative and impactful representation. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity you afforded me to serve in this capacity. It has been both an honour and a privilege.  Very truly yours,  Engr. Razaq Obe 

Residents of riverine communities in Ondo State may soon heave a sigh of relief as the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) ramps up efforts to address persistent water challenges in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.  The Commission’s renewed intervention aligns closely with the Ondo State Government’s broader development agenda aimed at ensuring safe and potable water for all residents, particularly in hard-to-reach coastal settlements. At the heart of the initiative is the ongoing upgrade of the Aboto Water Treatment Plant, a critical infrastructure project expected to significantly transform access to clean water in one of Nigeria’s most environmentally vulnerable regions.  The project is seen as a major step toward tackling the long-standing issue of inadequate water supply caused by difficult terrain and saline conditions. Speaking on the development, OSOPADEC Chairman, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, reiterated the Commission’s commitme...

Famous Nigerian actress, Toyin Abraham, has vowed never to exchange pleasantries with colleague, Funke Akindele again. Toyin stated this after being snubbed by Funke in public. Funke had during the premiere of actress Iyabo Ojo’s movie yesterday night, refused to answer Toyin Abraham’s greetings despite tapping her hand and mentioning her name. Toyin was heard saying “Aunty Funke, good evening ma.” In response, Funke completely ignored her, and looked away despite tapping her. Toyin who felt embarrassed by the incident, however walked away from her. The development sparked controversy on social media with many users condemning Funke Akindele’s negative energy. However, reacting to the viral video under a post on Instagram, Toyin disclosed that she has unfollowed Funke and also vowed never to greet her again. Toyin wrote in a now deleted comment “I have unfollowed her, God forbid bad things. If I ever greet her again that means I’m a bastard.” CrestFM

Ebitake Feku has won the first gold medal for Ondo State at the ongoing third edition of the National Para Games in Abuja. Feku clinched the top prize in the men’s KL1 kayak event with an outstanding performance. In the women’s category, Idowu Olowu also delivered an impressive outing, winning silver and bronze medals in the KL2 200m and 500m events respectively. Meanwhile, Dagba Samuel (men’s KL3 500m), Ebilatei Feku (men’s KL1 200m), and April Seidagha (women’s KL3 200m) have all qualified for the finals. These achievements have set a positive tone for Ondo State as the festival progresses.   However, there was disappointment in para table tennis, as Timothy Umeh, Monday Anthony, and Kazeem Aminu were knocked out in the quarter-finals of the Open Challenge Class. Reacting to the state’s performance, the General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council, Mrs Evelyn Lebi, expressed her delight and attributed the success in the kayak events to God and thorough preparation ahead of th...

Tension has gripped the Oja Baale area of Agbabu community in Ondo State following a violent outbreak that resulted in the destruction of properties worth millions of naira and left several residents injured. The incident, which occurred on the 18th of this month, had led to widespread destruction estimated at over N100 million. The crisis reportedly erupted after the installation of Mr. Augustine Folorunso, a native of Ondo town and a landowner with extensive holdings in the area, as the Oloja of the community by the Orunja of Odigbo Kingdom. What began as a moment of celebration soon degenerated into unrest amid lingering tensions within the community. According to eyewitness accounts, the newly installed Oloja had invited residents and associates to celebrate the occasion. However, the gathering was disrupted by violence, with conflicting reports over the immediate cause of the incident. "Several shops and palm oil processing facilities were vandalised during the unrest, a mosq...

. The Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election .  Speaking during a media engagement with journalists following the just concluded APC National Convention in Abuja, Ajanaku said the Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as the leader of the party in the state has pledged unwavering support for the President’s re-election bid. Ajanaku noted that Ondo State delivered the highest votes for President Tinubu across the South-West in the last election, expressing confidence that the state would surpass that performance in 2027.  According to him, Governor Aiyedatiwa has assured party stakeholders of intensified mobilization efforts to double the feat, reinforcing the All Progressives Congress’ dominance in the state. The Commissioner congratulated members of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State and nationwide, describing...

  By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  Youth empowerment key to prosperous Nigeria, Entrepreneur asserts   By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko A seasoned entrepreneur, Dr Afolakemi Saba, FCA, has advised youths in Nigeria to shift focus from white-collar jobs to entrepreneurship – the key to a liberated, fulfilling life and prosperous country. Saba, a Christian leader and pioneer in women’s empowerment and youth mentorship, gave the advice on Sunday at an entrepreneurial programme. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme was organised by Everlasting Light International Church, Bodija, Ibadan. She emphasised that entrepreneurship creates opportunities not just for individuals, but for others as well. Saba said that going to school was not just about getting a job, but about liberating one’s mind to conceive ideas and create opportunities. She, therefore, enjoined the youth to be proactive and take charge of their lives. The seasoned entrepreneur also called on youths to build th...

By Kayode Afolabi It was an atmosphere filled with love, joy, and excitement as the families of Pastor, Dr. (Mr.) and Pastor, Dr. (Mrs.) Afolabi, alongside Engineer (Mr.) and Mrs. Bakare, gathered to witness the wedding of their children, Oluwadoyinsolami and Oluseyi. Newsline NG learnt that the wedding ceremonies, which spanned two days, attracted relatives, friends, and well-wishers from Nigeria and the diaspora, all of whom came together to celebrate the union of the couple in grand style. The Bride's Parent, Pastor Jide Afolabi, and Pastor (Mrs) Olayinka Afolabi with the Newly wedded couple at the Reception The traditional wedding ceremony was held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in a colourful and culturally rich setting that showcased the heritage and values of both families. The white wedding and reception followed on Friday, March 27, 2026, with proceedings commencing at exactly 2:00 p.m., drawing a large turnout of guests who witnessed the solemn exchange of vows. The Bride...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   The Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, has urged Nigerian leaders to match words with action in addressing the country’s challenges. Badejo made the call on Friday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan. The cleric emphasised that words and promises were no longer enough to address the country’s pressing challenges. The bishop stressed that leadership came with a higher level of responsibility, representing the hopes and future of millions, and that tangible results were what truly mattered. The bishop highlighted the weight of sufferings by ordinary Nigerians, from economic hardship to insecurity and uncertainty about the future. “The reality on ground is heavy, people are hurting deeply on many fronts. “Leadership is not just expected, it is required; leadership loses legitimacy if it fails to ease the people’s suffering. “Nobody is perfect – not you, not me, not even those in power, but the differen...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   Ms. Oluwakemi Alo, a health communication researcher and alumna of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has been awarded the competitive 2025–2026 SLU 1818 Community Engagement Grant. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Alo, a Graduate Research Assistant at Saint Louis University (SLU), is one of only 18 recipients selected for the prestigious university-wide award. Alo is leading a multilingual initiative designed to increase ovarian cancer awareness among underserved immigrant and refugee communities through culturally tailored communication strategies and improved access to reliable health information. The project integrates a QR code-based delivery system and a centralised landing page she developed to expand access to ovarian cancer resources and promote the Free Genetic Testing Programme by Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA). She told NAN on Friday in Ibadan that the programme enabled individuals to better understand their risk for ovarian c...

By Olu Kay, Owo In a vibrant celebration of grace, gratitude, and musical expression, Minstrel Olatunbosun Kikelomo has announced plans to host a special thanksgiving concert alongside the official launch of a new inspirational musical group, Fulfilment Angelic Voices Inspirational Musical Band (F.A.V.L). The event, described as a “Trinity of Celebrations,” is set to bring together lovers of gospel music, well-wishers, and members of the community in an atmosphere of praise, testimonies, and live performances. Speaking with Newsline NG , Olatunbosun Kikelomo said, "the concert is a heartfelt expression of appreciation to God, reflecting on blessings received while also creating a platform to inspire others through music and worship. "The programme is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 27, 2026, at the Mountain of Fulfilment, located behind First Molac along the Akure-Owo/Benin Expressway in Ondo State. "Activities for the day will commence with a red carpet session...

An organic chemist at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Professor Adebisi Olonisakin has charged the government and relevant stakeholders to strengthen investment in research that explores the various known and undiscovered health and industrial potentials of plant secondary metabolites, in order for ‘Africa to evolve organic, home-grown methods of tackling health challenges if it must preserve its population and save its economy’. He made this call on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, while delivering the 57th inaugural lecture of the institution titled ‘Nature’s Pharmacy: Unlocking the Secrets of Plant Secondary Metabolites’. He further advocated sustainable governance principles, encouragement of conservation efforts and clubs, establishment of botanical gardens, biotechnology research units, approval of complementary herbal medicine, and setting up of laboratory infrastructure and central analytical facilities as avenues to getting the most from nature. Prof. Olonisakin posited: ‘S...

By Adeseun Adetayo Members of the Ondo State House of Assembly have endorsed the proposed Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk. The lawmakers gave their endorsement while receiving members of the planning committee at the Speaker’s Lodge in Alagbaka, Akure, shortly before departing on official assignments outside the state. The Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Gbegudu Ololade, said the Assembly fully supports the initiative. He stated, “We are going to be part of the walk to rally support for the return of President Bola Tinubu and to showcase the good work our Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is doing across the state. “The walk is aimed at promoting our working President and Governor, so we have no choice but to support the programme. We will be on ground. It is also about exercise, which is beneficial to our health.” The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye Bonsue, who also serves as ...

Popular Nollywood actress and media personality, Biola Adebayo, has issued a public apology following widespread backlash over her recent interview with embattled actor Baba Ijesha. The controversy erupted after Adebayo featured Baba Ijesha on her podcast, a move that sparked outrage among many Nigerians who felt the platform should not have been extended to the actor given his past legal troubles.  Newsline NG observed that Critics took to social media to express disappointment, with some calling for the immediate removal of the interview. In her response, Adebayo explained that her intention was not to endorse or support Baba Ijesha, but rather to provide him with an opportunity to apologise publicly and possibly begin rebuilding his career.  She referenced a previous instance where she hosted Seun Egbegbe, noting that many Nigerians had embraced him after his appearance on her platform. According to Adebayo, she underestimated the level of public resentment toward Baba Ije...

By Our Correspondent   The Assistant General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Worldwide, Pastor Kehinde Adegbolahan, has emphasized the importance of accurate and spiritually guided prayers for believers seeking deliverance and breakthroughs.  He made this known during a powerful ministration at the ongoing programme in Akure. Speaking on the topic, “Correct Prayers, Correct Deliverance,” the cleric drew his teachings from key biblical passages, including Gospel of Luke 13:10–12 and 11:1, as well as Epistle of James 4:3, stressing that prayer remains a fundamental pillar in the life of every believer. Pastor Adegbolahan explained that many Christians fail to receive answers to their prayers because they approach God incorrectly.  According to him, “When prayers are wrongly said, results will be denied,” adding that the effectiveness of prayer is closely tied to how it is offered. He further noted that some prayers may appear fervent but are spiri...