Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kogi has confirmed the killing of a female lecturer by a hit and run articulated vehicle (Truck) in the State.

Mr Tenimu Etuku, FRSC Sector Commander, who confirmed the killing of the lecturer of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Mrs Kemi Emmanue, described her death as very sad and unfortunate.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that late Mrs Emmanuel, was reported to be a well-respected and admired lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts of the university.

Etuku said that the accident occurred around 3.30p.m. on Wednesday, when the lecturer fell off a commercial motorcycle a.k.a Okada.

‘After she fell, a truck hit her on the highway at Crusher in Lokoja metropolis.

‘When the accident happened, our rescue operation team responded timely and quickly rushed the victim to Kogi State Specialist Hospital, where she was confirmed dead.

‘The corpse of the deceased has been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary, ‘ he said.

He expressed shock over the attitude of the said okada rider, who reportedly zoomed off on the guise of chasing the said hit and run truck.

The sector Commander cautioned okada riders against contesting with enclosed vehicles on the highway to avoid such unfortunate incidences and save lives of innocent passengers.

President Bola Tinubu has urged Public Complaints Commission, the Ombudsman, to digitalise for efficiency and transparency.

The President hoped transition to digital processes would produce an ombudsman that hears grievances, predicts and prevents bureaucratic abuses.

He spoke in Abuja at 2025 Global Ombudsman Summit and 50th anniversary of the commission: ‘Effective Ombudsman Institution: Catalyst for Good Governance’.

Tinubu, represented by Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, said: ‘The commission was founded to protect citizens against administrative abuse and in an era marked by demands for transparency, inclusion, and ethical governance, the role of the ombudsman as an independent and accessible institution for redress is essential to democracy.

‘PCC is one body upholding administrative justice. It gives hope to citizens seeking fairness outside the court.

‘It must adapt to the changing governance landscape, marked by digital advances, increase awareness, and complex administrative systems. Moving forward, PCC should become a digital ombudsman capable of real-time complaint tracking, data analysis for policy reforms, and seamless collaboration with MDAs’.

The President promised to address the commission’s funding challenge and build capacity of staff for better performance.

PCC’s Chief Commissioner, Bashir Abubakar, said technology was critical for modernising the ombudsman’s work.

He said online portal for reporting cases would allow citizens to lodge complaints conveniently from anywhere.

‘Automated case tracking and reporting capabilities not only increase efficiency but also provide valuable data for identifying systemic problems. Technology enhances transparency, improves accessibility, and ensures the ombudsman is fit for the digital age.

‘Let us build a future where citizens are heard, and administrative justice is a right, not a privilege’, Abubakar emphasised.

He added that collaboration with the judiciary can streamline legal processes and ensure administrative justice is not just a promise but a reality.

The former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon who spoke virtually, said the commission was conceived to help reform and strengthen public and private administration.

He charged the PCC to ensure that citizens’ complaints are heard, administrative needs are checked, and public confidence in governance is ensured and sustained.

The former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo who also spoke virtually, charged the commission to uphold the ideals and objectives that gave birth to it.

He said: ‘At the time the Commission was established in 1975, it was a bold and visionary step, having recognized the need for democracy to thrive and for government to truly serve its people. It was to allow citizens to air their grievances without fear or favour.

‘The Public Complaints Commission became a voice for the voiceless, and a reminder that public servants are first and foremost servants of the people, and there should be no impunity anywhere.

‘The PCC must operate on the principles of justice, equity, and the unwavering belief that no Nigerian should be above the law, and that all Nigerians should be protected by the law’.

The Emir of Zazzau, Mallam Ahmed Bamalli while emphasing the importance of collaboration between the PCC and traditional institutions, noted that about 2,000 cases have been settled out of court through the emirate.

He said: ‘Every day, we receive complaints from people, and through the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) window, we have been able to in the last two years decongest cases in our courts. It’s on record that we have more than 2,000 cases that were moved from the courts and then decided before us in our chambers.

‘With effective collaboration, we believe more cases will be resolved at our level and at the Commission’s level’.

Stakeholders in the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN) have called for a transparent and credible electoral process in the forthcoming federation election addressing the need for fairness, inclusivity, and accountability in leadership selection.

This much was the verdict at a meeting convened at the National sports commission(NSC) Boardroom inside the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos , on Tuesday by Alhaja Mrs. Kafilat Olawunmi Olalere, a board member and South-West representative, who is seeking for the federation’s presidential seat.

Addressing the gathering, which included notable stakeholders such as Tosin Odumosu and Bashiru Hassan, Alhaja Olalere stressed that stakeholders will no longer accept imposed appointments or closed-door selections. According to her, the integrity of the federation depends on a free, fair and transparent election.

‘This is about the credibility of the process, not personal interest. The stakeholders want a proper election where zonal reps and officials are duly elected, not handpicked. Anything short of that would disenfranchise members and undermine the sport’s integrity,’ she said.

She explained that the initial election date fixed by the NSC for October 18 was later shifted to October 25 due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’. However, she expressed concern over alleged pressure from the incumbent president, Kelvin Erhunwunse, who is reportedly seeking a third term in office amid controversies surrounding previous elections.

She noted that gymnastics in Nigeria has suffered neglect due to poor leadership and lack of proper planning, adding that the sport which largely involves children deserves national recognition and Organization’s support.

‘Gymnastics is a sport that engages children from as early as age three, four, five. As a parent and stakeholder, it is painful to see the sport struggling without facilities or proper recognition. We want a leadership that will reform gymnastics, equip our coaches, and revive grassroots participation,’ she added.

Olalere, who has served as the South-West representative for four years, emphasized that her experience across regions from the North Central to the South East gives her a deep understanding of the challenges facing the sport.

She also vowed to prioritize reforms such as establishing a national database, creating a functional website, and sourcing equipment through partnerships with private and international organizations.

‘We need a leadership that will restore structure and credibility. The absence of transparency has hindered our progress. A fair election is the first step to rebuilding the Gymnasts federation,’ she asserted.

Meanwhile, Coach Ben Alonge, a former technical director at the African Gymnastics Union (UAG), accused the incumbent leadership of electoral malpractice and mismanagement. He described the last federation election as a kangaroo process that lacked legitimacy and proper oversight.

According to him, the NSC , NAPHER SD (Nigeria Association for Physical and Health Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance), and para-military representatives were excluded from the process, rendering it invalid.

‘The last election was neither transparent nor credible. There was no presence of the Sports Commission, and key stakeholders were sidelined. Gymnastics in Nigeria has declined for over eight years due to fraudulent practices. We need a proper election for sanity to return,’ Alonge said. ‘Stakeholders has unanimously come to an agreement that only a credible and transparent electoral process can restore the declining rate of gymnastics in Nigeria at both the national and international levels.’

As the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame (LBHF) returns this weekend, fans can expect a thrilling lineup of bouts featuring amateur talents from across Lagos State. The event, scheduled for Saturday, October 25 at Agege Stadium, will showcase 10 matchups as part of the revitalised monthly boxing series.

Among the featured contests; in the men’s 50kg category, Bolarinwa Michael of Next Page Club, Mushin, will face Daramola Daniel of Brightest Club, Oto Awori. Quadri Oyebamiji is set to slug it out with Lateef Qudus in the men’s 55kg division. Innocent Prosper of Bariga will challenge Samuel Talabi of Abule Egba in the men’s 60kg bout.

Muftau Abdullahi will square off against Adeyemi Adebayo in the 63kg category, while Abdullahi Robiu takes on Ibrahim Olayiwola in another clash within the same weight class.

In the women’s 48kg division, Sofia Yakubu of Oshodi will battle Nurat Sulimon of Badagry.

A special exhibition bout in the 31kg category will feature Eniola Owolabi of Ojokoro against Amira Aremu of Ajegunle.

Olamilekan Badiru of Ikorodu West will test his strength against Sharafadeen Fawas of Ajegunle Apapa in the men’s 70kg division. In the 75kg category, Hamed Adegoke of Kosofe will go head-to-head with Dolapo Ajayi of Ifako-Ijaiye.

The final bout of the day promises fireworks as Segun Aboseh of Badagry takes on Michael Olomitutu of Odi-Olowo in the men’s 86kg division.

With the Governor’s Belt tournament on the horizon, this weekend’s event marks the beginning of a competitive journey for boxers aiming to earn their spot in the prestigious year-end championship.

Fans are expected to turn out in numbers to witness the action and support grassroots boxing talent.

According to LBHF Director David Mohammed, the return of the monthly tournament is part of a broader strategy to spotlight the five administrative divisions of Lagos-Island, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Mainland, and Epe (IBILE)-as well as local councils, fostering a more dynamic and inclusive competition.

‘We’re introducing innovation into the tournament. For the next three months, we’ll host monthly editions culminating in the Governor’s Belt Championship in December,’ Mohammed explained. ‘This kickoff will help us identify boxers from every corner of Lagos State who deserve to be seen by coaches and considered for the state squad in major national events.’

Mohammed emphasized LBHF’s legacy as a respected platform that has organized boxing events for over 15 years, serving as a launchpad for many amateur boxers who have transitioned into successful professional careers.

Looking ahead to 2026, he revealed plans for a new format aligned with the IBILE and Local Government structure. ‘Each division will host its own Monthly Show, crowning champions across various weight categories. These divisional champions will then compete to determine the best of the best in Lagos. We also have plans for regional and national championships, which will be unveiled soon.’

Founded in 2010 by former amateur champion and current Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, LBHF is a non-profit organization committed to nurturing

grassroots and amateur boxing in Nigeria. Through initiatives like the Governor’s Belt Championship and international competitions, LBHF continues to be a breeding ground for Nigeria’s top boxing talents.

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has announced that its 2025 Annual General Assembly (AGA) will be held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday, October 29th.

Confirming the development, the Chief Operating Officer of the NWFL, Ms. Modupe Shabi, stated that the 2025 AGA will bring together Chairmen and General Managers of NWFL Premiership and Championship clubs, alongside key stakeholders, to deliberate on the progress and future of women’s football in Nigeria.

According to Ms. Shabi, delegates are expected to arrive on Tuesday, October 28th ahead of the main congress scheduled for the following day.

Some of the major highlights of this year’s Assembly will include the announcement of the 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership kickoff date and the official Premiership Draw, which will unveil fixtures for the upcoming league season.

The Annual General Assembly serves as the NWFL’s highest decision-making platform, providing an avenue for club representatives, administrators, and stakeholders to review the past season’s activities, discuss strategic reforms, and set the agenda for the continued growth of women’s football across the country.

Ms. Shabi expressed optimism about the gathering, noting that, ‘the AGA will offer an opportunity for fruitful deliberations as we collectively advance the growth and development of women’s football in Nigeria.’

The NWFL COO expressed readiness to host all participating clubs and stakeholders in Port Harcourt for what promises to be a pivotal session in shaping the next chapter of the women’s game in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, preparations for the new season are in top gear following the conclusion of the 2024/2025 campaign, which saw Bayelsa Queens emerge Premiership champions for a record sixth time after clinching the Super Six title in Ikenne.

Promoted to the NWFL Premiership are Sunshine Queens (Ondo), Castmog Ladies (Ogun), Ahudiyannem Queens (Abia), and Imo Striker Queens (Imo), expanding the top-flight to 20 teams ahead of the 2025/2026 season.

In the Championship, newly promoted clubs include Dreamstar Ladies (returnees), Rangers Women (debutants), Rosaria Victrix (debutants), and Solo Wonders (debutants), all securing their places in the NWFL Championship 2026.

Elizade JAC Autoland Limited, sole distributor of JAC vehicles in Nigeria, has pledged to continue delivering quality, innovation, and value as it launches two models, JAC T9 Pickup and JAC JS8 PRO SUV in Lagos.

Oye Hassan-Odukale, chairman, said the company has always ”connected customers to vehicles with performance, reliability, style, while ensuring excellent after-sales support’.

‘We affirm our promise to deliver vehicles Nigerians can trust, enjoy, and be proud to own. As we unveil T9 and JS8 PRO, you will find them remarkable additions to our growing family,’ he said.

Senior Brand Manager, Olumide Olaokun, noted that the vehicles were created with the Nigerian family in mind; it combines rugged reliability with modern luxury. ‘When you choose JAC T9 or JS8 PRO, you’re choosing durability, safety, and comfort that meet global standards,’ he said.

He said JAC T9 represents the company’s third-generation pickup platform, backed by over 60 years of chassis design expertise. It features a turbocharged engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 3,500kg towing capacity. Safety features include a high-strength cage body, six airbags, and multi-layer anti-collision beams. Inside, the T9 offers a 10.4-inch touchscreen display screen, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, and wireless charging, delivering technology and comfort.

JAC JS8 Pro, he noted, is a premium seven-seater SUV that targets families and professionals seeking space and sophistication. It boasts a panoramic sunroof, dual 24.6-inch display screen, independent third-row air conditioning, and over 2,000 litres of trunk space when seats are folded. Powered by an efficient yet strong engine, JS8 Pro offers 7.9L/100km fuel consumption, providing a balance of power and economy.

Managing Director, Demola Ade-Ojo, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria, emphasising innovation, affordability, and customer satisfaction.

He noted that the brand’s latest models reflect global automotive trends, which include advanced digital displays, improved engine technology, and features to meet modern driving expectations. ‘Our goal is to keep Nigerians inspired with vehicles that combine technology, performance, and design at the right value,’ he added.

Ade-Ojo outlined several customer-focused initiatives, including affordable luxury, Auto Protect, an extended warranty, and flexible instalment payment plans in partnership with banks, making vehicle ownership more accessible.

Bruce Zhao, Sales manager for West Africa at JAC International, said JAC Motors has been serving quality and innovative vehicles for 61 years. He said the launch of the two vehicles here shows the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence.

The launch was a gathering of government dignitaries, captains of industry, MDs of companies, car dealers, and the ambassador of the brand.

The highlight of the launch was when Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, the founder of Elizade JAC Autoland Limited, was given a brand new RF8 Hybrid Electric Vehicle as an appreciation for his sacrifices and legacy.

The unveiling marks JAC Motors’ latest step in expanding its footprint in Nigeria, offering vehicles designed to deliver rugged performance, modern technology, and family-oriented comfort for today’s drivers.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) yesterday suspended its two-week warning strike, following a resolution by its National Executive Council (NEC). Its National President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, announced the suspension yesterday during a media briefing in Abuja.

Piwuna explained that the decision followed an extensive NEC meeting that began Tuesday night and ended around 4:00 a.m. yesterday.

According to him, the union’s leadership considered constructive engagements with government officials as a positive step. The union’s president, however, asserted that several critical issues remained unresolved on their demands.

‘We’ve had useful engagements with representatives of the government regarding the draft renegotiation of the 2009 agreement. While progress has been made, we are not yet where we ought to be.’

The NEC, Piwuna asserted, decided to suspend the strike as a gesture of goodwill in recognition of appeals from students, parents, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and other concerned Nigerians who intervened.

‘The union acknowledged that the government had returned to the negotiation table. While noting that more work still needed to be done, NEC resolved to suspend the warning strike to reciprocate the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians,’ he said.

The two-week warning strike, which began on October 13, was declared over the government’s alleged failure to meet several longstanding demands.

ASUU and strikes suspension

However, it was not the first time ASUU had ended a strike early. The union had suspended strikes on previous occasions to engage in further talks with the Federal Government. The decision to suspend the two-week warning strike followed a pattern of using the suspension as a gesture of goodwill to give the government a window for negotiation.

In 2009, the union suspended an indefinite strike after about three months to sign a memorandum of understanding with the government. In 2008, it suspended two separate one-week warning strikes aimed at pressuring the government on their demands.

In 2006 and 2005, the union also conducted very short strikes, lasting only a week and three days, respectively.

Meanwhile, the reasons for suspending a strike before the union’s full demands are met often involve a mix of legal pressure, public sympathy, and a willingness to return to the bargaining table.

The most recent suspension was intended to ‘reciprocate the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians’ and to give the government a one-month deadline to resolve outstanding issues. However, the union has a history of reviving industrial action if the government fails to follow through on its commitments.

The issues at stake

The union reverted to type when it announced the commencement of the two-week warning strike across universities nationwide. Not many observers were surprised, the signs were already there when lecturers embarked on peaceful protests across campuses in August over what they termed the Federal Government’s failure to accede to their demands for better welfare and improved funding of the education sector.

The protests, which grounded academic activities, were meant to serve as a strike notice to the Federal Government. They wanted the government to begin implementing the demands to avert an inevitable full blown strike.

The union’s just-declared two-week strike could be escalated if the government failed to address its seven-point demands.

Piwuna insisted that the strike was inevitable due to the government’s alleged insensitivity and failure to implement agreements reached with the union.

The demands are the renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement, improved funding for public universities, revitalisation projects, an end to the alleged victimisation of ASUU members in certain institutions, payment of outstanding salary arrears and promotion arrears, and remittance of third-party deductions.

ASUU’s demands also release of three and a half months of withheld salaries, sustainable funding and revitalisation of public universities, and an end to the victimisation of lecturers at the Lagos State University (LASU), Prince Abubakar Audu University, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

The union is also demanding the payment of outstanding 25-35% salary arrears, promotion arrears spanning over four years, and the release of withheld third-party deductions such as cooperative contributions and union check-off dues.

ASUU is also asking for a review of the governance system in universities and a halt to the proliferation of universities by federal and state governments when existing ones are underfunded.

But, the Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had met with government representatives at the review panel, pledging that the government would fulfill its promises to ASUU. He said the meeting reviewed ASUU’s proposals, line by line, which would be fine-tuned by the committee’s technical team.

The minister said the team would submit a ‘clean report’ that would be forwarded to the Yayale Ahmed-led Committee to renegotiate the 2009 ASUU/FG Agreement.

‘We want an agreement where every component is actionable and feasible. Nigerians can be assured that this government will keep our schools open and ensure our children remain in classrooms,’ he said.

He gave an assurance that the nationwide rally which was held in August would not lead to a strike because the government had engaged the union ‘continuously and meticulously.’

He said: ‘We are committed to solving this problem once and for all. What has lingered since the 2009 and 2021 agreements will now be addressed in a sustainable way.

‘The President has made it clear that every promise made to ASUU and Nigerians will be fulfilled truthfully and honestly.’

He restated the government’s commitment to the resolution of the issues raised by the union, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had mandated the ministry to find a lasting solution to the crisis.

He said the administration was not interested in ‘bogus or unsustainable agreements,’ but in reaching a constitutional and implementable accord.

‘No work, no pay’ rule activated

Obviously displeased by the union’s action, Alausa directed vice chancellors to carry out physical headcounts of lecturers, who report for work to activate the ‘No work no pay’ rule.

He added that the National Universities Commission(NUC) would monitor compliance with the directive and submit a ”consolidated report” to his ministry.

Alausa said in a letter to the vice chancellors that the government was disappointed with the strike following calls for the union to embrace constructive dialogue.

In another twist, Piwuna was defiant. He said the union was not afraid of the government stopping the salaries of its members.

He said the decision of the government to enforce the policy showed that it has not learnt anything from previous strikes.

He alleged that the government offered the union members a 25 per cent increase on their present salary.

Piwuna vowed that the offer of 25 per cent salary hike will not make ASUU members call off the strike.

‘We have tried everything, we have tried discussions, we have tried writing letters, we have had meetings, we have had behind-the-scenes discussions, we have visited traditional leaders away from the cameras, and we have visited opinion leaders away from the cameras; none has worked.

”It is only when we get to this point (strike) that the government responds, unfortunately,’ he said.

NLC, other unions step in with ‘no pay, no work’

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and affiliate unions from the education sector on Monday declared ‘no pay, no work’, as a response to the Federal Government’s ‘no work, no pay’.

The NLC and the unions also gave the government a four-week ultimatum to address outstanding renegotiations of the 2009 agreement.

It showed full solidarity with ASUU and other tertiary education unions, calling for robust participation from all union leaders.

NLC President Joe Ajaero said: ‘We have decided to give the Federal Government four weeks to conclude all negotiations in this sector. They have started talks with ASUU but the problem in this sector goes beyond ASUU.

‘That is why we are extending this to four weeks. If after four weeks this negotiation is not concluded, the organs of the NEC will meet and take a nationwide action that all workers in the country, all unions in the country will be involved so that we get to the root of all this.’

It urged the government to honour collective agreements and respect the rights of workers, emphasising the ‘No Pay, No Work’ response.

The unions include ASUU, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP), Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions (ASURI), College of Education Staff Union (COESU), among others.

The unions are poised to work together in their agitations.

Minister: ASUU requests addressed

Alausa also said the government had taken concrete steps to address all pending issues affecting the lecturers.

He said: ‘We have addressed every single request by ASUU; there is no need for this strike, and we are pleading with them to go back to school. ‘We need to keep our children in school. If there is any group of people I have met with the most since assuming office, it is ASUU.’

The minister dismissed allegations that the Federal Government had been slow or unwilling to act on the union’s demands, insisting that several commitments had already been fulfilled.

‘The arrears of their earned academic allowance have been paid. The President swiftly approved 50 billion naira months ago. Those allowances have now been mainstreamed into their salaries, so there will never be arrears again,’ the minister explained.

He added that the government has also resolved issues relating to postgraduate supervision allowances, which are now being paid by universities, and that funds under the Needs Assessment Scheme were being released in phases.

‘The President approved N150 billion for Needs Assessment in the 2026 budget. 50 billion naira of that has already been released, and the remaining will be paid in two more tranches. The money is already sitting in the Needs Assessment account,’ Alausa said.

On promotion arrears, he explained that the payments have been captured in the 2026 budget.

The question on the lips of students, parents and other stakeholders with the latest development is whether the suspension of the strike will bring permanent relief to students and parents after days of academic disruption across public universities nationwide. Stakeholders are also hoping that the government would accede to all ASUU’s demands.

Afrobeats singer Bella Shmurda has confirmed that fast-rising artist Fola has officially joined his record label, Dangbana Republik.

The Cash App crooner made the announcement during an interview with Naija 102 FM, clearing the air on rumours surrounding Fola’s status with the label.

‘Fola is signed under Dangbana Republik; he’s with us, we’re family,’ he said.

According to Bella, Fola’s signing is a reward to their long-standing connection, which dates back several years.

He revealed that Fola has been working with Dangbana Republik for over four years, and the decision to make the partnership official was driven by a desire to support Fola’s career growth.

‘I’ve known Fola for over four years. He’s been with Dangbana Republik, always working with us.

‘One day, I just decided with my team that it was time to support this boy in our own way. And to God be the glory, that little support turned into something big,’ he said.

Under Dangbana Republik, Fola will maintain creative freedom while receiving professional guidance.

Bella emphasised that the label’s priority is to put Fola on the right path, protect his craft, and ensure he has liberty with his creativity.

‘It’s about putting him on the right path, protecting his craft, and making sure he has liberty with his creativity,’ he noted.

Fola has already gained recognition for his collaboration with Bella Shmurda on Dangbana Riddim and his hit track Alone featuring Bhadboi OML.

Bella expressed his gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead, stating that he, the team, and Fola are all happy about the development.

‘I thank God for giving me that instinct to move forward with what I believe in. I’m happy, the team is happy, and Fola himself is happy, everybody’s happy,’ he added.

The Nigerian Army, 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, Ondo State, has commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration for its swift response to the recent security alert over a planned terrorist attack on some parts of the State.

The Department of State Services (DSS) had raised the alarm about an imminent attack on Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko communities in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government Area, by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The warning was contained in a memo dated October 20, 2025 to the Brigade Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Owena Cantonment, Akure.

According to the memo signed by H. I. Kana, Director of the DSS in Ondo State, ‘Intelligence confirmed plans by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorist group to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon.’

Commending Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, Major Njoka Irabor, noted that the governor’s prompt action in convening an emergency security meeting and directing all security agencies to be on full alert demonstrated his commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens.

Major Irabor, who spoke during an official visit to the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, in Akure on Thursday, expressed appreciation to the state government for its continuous support to the military and other security formations.

He recalled that the Governor recently presented utility vehicles and other operational equipment to security agencies to enhance their efficiency and operational readiness across the state.

According to him, the synergy between the state government and security agencies has contributed greatly to the relative peace being enjoyed in Ondo State.

He pledged the Nigerian Army’s continued collaboration with other security agencies to ensure that Ondo remains a safe and stable environment for residents and investors.

Remarking, Ajanaku commended the Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the people of the state from attacks.

He assured that the Ministry of Information and Orientation would continue to support the military and other security agencies through effective information dissemination and public enlightenment.

Ajanaku also emphasised the importance of public vigilance, urging citizens to report any suspicious or unlawful activities in their communities to the appropriate authorities.

He noted that timely intelligence from the public plays a vital role in helping the government and security agencies prevent criminal acts and maintain peace.

The commissioner reaffirmed the Aiyedatiwa administration’s dedication to a secure and prosperous Ondo State, stressing that collaboration, vigilance, and communication remain key to sustaining peace and development.

Reality star Kiddwaya has criticised the mindset of some Africans following backlash he received after asking for donations online.

Speaking in a recent interview with Trend Centrl on YouTube, he addressed the controversy, saying that Africans often misunderstand the concept of fundraising.

He said: ‘Two things – Bill Gates Foundation asks for donations all the time amongst their rich friends and to people. It’s just an African mentality. That’s the problem with Africans -our level of thinking sometimes is very suppressed and very minimal. We don’t like to think properly and intellectually.’

He went on to explain that requesting donations is a normal practice globally.

‘It’s not a ‘wow’ thing to ask for money. That’s how you sustain yourself,’ he added.

When asked about how the public perceives him compared to organisations like UNICEF, Kiddwaya said he wasn’t bothered.

‘All I care about is that kid’s life I’m saving in hospital. In fact, I shouldn’t have responded to them when I had that backlash. I shouldn’t have even responded to be honest with you but my team said just respond because you know whatever. But deep down I didn’t actually care because they’re not going to hospitals with me seeing people thanking me for saving their lives and stuff and putting people through school who need education,’ he said.