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The Ondo State Government on Friday announced that it has paid over N12 billion in gratuities to local government retirees whose entitlements had been pending for more than a decade.

The government also commended all 18 local government chairmen in the state for their efforts in promoting grassroots development, saving funds, and embracing transparency in governance.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, disclosed this in Akure while briefing journalists on the outcome of the ministry’s inspection tour of the 18 local government areas.

Takuro said the payment covered retirees between 2010 and 2013, adding that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa approved the release of the funds to ease the suffering of former workers who had served the state meritoriously but were left unpaid by previous administrations.

‘On gratuities alone, we have spent almost N12 billion to pay local government retirees between 2010 and 2013. These people had retired for ten to fifteen years without receiving their entitlements.

‘Though the backlog was not caused by this administration, government is a continuum, and Mr Governor directed us to save money specifically to clear it. By next week, we will also begin payment for the 2014 retirees,’ he said.

The commissioner explained that the achievement was possible through consistent savings agreed upon at the Joint Allocation Account Committee (JAAC) meetings with council chairmen. He stressed that without such an arrangement, it would have been difficult to dedicate funds to retirees given other competing demands.

Takuro recalled that many desperate pensioners had besieged his office when he assumed duty, with some even offering to forfeit a percentage of their entitlements if their payments could be fast-tracked.

‘I felt sorry for them and told them they didn’t need to know me personally before receiving their gratuities. That was why we made proper arrangements with the local government chairmen and started saving. We have done this successfully on several occasions, and today the results are visible,’ he explained.

He praised the local government chairmen for initiating development-oriented projects within their short time in office. ‘We are glad that the local governments are alert to their responsibilities. Some have built markets, provided solar power and potable water, fixed bridges, and graded rural roads. They have also engaged our youths in agriculture, thereby creating employment opportunities and strengthening food security,’ he said.

According to him, these initiatives align with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Aiyedatiwa, both of whom consider grassroots development as the foundation of national growth.

‘If we make rural dwellers uncomfortable, there will be problems. They are the ones who provide food for us. Neglecting them will only worsen rural-to-urban migration and increase pressure on city centres. That is why Governor Aiyedatiwa has keyed into President Tinubu’s vision of grassroots empowerment,’ he stressed.

The commissioner further revealed that the councils had collectively saved N15 billion in a joint account to finance capital projects, describing the move as proof of long-term planning beyond recurrent expenses.

He added that the state government had partnered with the EFCC, ICPC, and the state anti-graft agency to train local government chairmen and senior officials on transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

According to him, the training was aimed at strengthening accountability and preventing mismanagement. ‘The trainings were designed to ensure that council officials handle public funds with the highest standards of transparency and accountability. This is to guarantee that savings and allocations are used for the good of the people,’ he said.

Takuro emphasized that the administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa would continue to prioritize both the welfare of retirees and the development of grassroots communities, stressing that without strong local governance, even the state and federal governments would face challenges.

Osun State, located in South-West Nigeria, is widely regarded as the cradle of Yoruba culture. With its rich history, sacred sites, and vibrant festivals, the state is a top destination for cultural tourism and spiritual heritage. Visitors are drawn not only to its UNESCO World Heritage sites but also to its serene natural landscapes and artistic traditions.

Here are five must-visit attractions in Osun State:

1. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove

Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is one of the last surviving sacred forests in Yoruba culture. Situated on the outskirts of Osogbo, it is dedicated to Osun, the goddess of fertility. The grove features shrines, sculptures, and artworks created by the Austrian artist Susanne Wenger and local artisans. It is also the venue for the world-famous Osun-Osogbo Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors annually.

2. Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls (Olumirin Waterfalls)

Located in Erin-Ijesha, the Olumirin Waterfalls is a breathtaking natural wonder. The seven-step waterfall cascades down rugged rocks, offering visitors a refreshing adventure and a scenic environment. Hiking to the upper levels is both challenging and rewarding, with spectacular views of the surrounding forest.

3. Nike Art Centre, Osogbo

Osogbo is known as a hub of art and culture, and the Nike Art Centre stands as one of its most prominent landmarks. Founded by Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, the gallery showcases traditional and contemporary Nigerian art, including textiles, beadwork, and paintings. It is a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

4. Oke-Ila Orangun Mountain

Tucked away in Oke-Ila, this mountain resort offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, panoramic views, and serene natural surroundings. The resort also highlights local traditions and serves as a getaway for those seeking peace away from the bustle of city life.

5. Osun-Osogbo Festival

While not a permanent site, the Osun-Osogbo Festival deserves mention as one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural events. Held every August, it celebrates the goddess Osun and attracts tourists, devotees, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world. The festival combines colorful processions, traditional rituals, music, and dance, a true showcase of Yoruba spirituality and heritage.

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The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has begun a four-day annual retreat aimed at strengthening the capacity of its Directorate of Legal Services for better service delivery.

Speaking at the opening ceremony in Lagos, the Director of Legal Services, NDDC, Victor Arenyeka, said: ‘Work-focused retreats such as this are designed to provide a deliberate pause from our daily demands, allowing us reflect on the purpose of our roles, our contributions to the organisation, and the shared vision that binds us together.

‘It is during moments like this that we step away from the intense pressure of work, recharge in a stress-free environment and reignite our passion for service. These days of reflection and relaxation serve as a form of renewal, mentally preparing us to return to our duties re-energised, focused and committed to giving our very best.’

He explained that this year’s theme, ‘Innovative Strategies for Excellent Legal Service Delivery and Conflict Resolution’, reflects the Directorate’s responsibility to adopt new approaches for effective legal work and dispute resolution in a changing environment.

Arenyeka noted: ‘The Legal Directorate remains a pivotal spectrum within the NDDC and will continue to play a critical role for years to come. As the custodian of the Commission’s legal and regulatory framework, the Legal Directorate serves as a tool in advancing NDDC’s mission, from ensuring contractual integrity and regulatory compliance to fostering harmonious conflict resolutions.

‘To achieve this, it is imperative that we work in synergy by adhering strictly to established processes, maintaining transparency in all dealings, and promptly seeking legal guidance when required.

As public officers we must recognise that embracing new strategies is not optional but essential. In so doing, we collectively strengthen the integrity of our operations and uphold the values of accountability and excellence that define the NDDC’s mission.’

In his keynote address, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade, SAN, recommended arbitration as one of the approaches the Directorate could adopt.

He said: ‘There is a general acknowledgement that in commercial matters arbitration is a viable alternative to litigation. This is more so given the congestion and delay that is experienced in many of our courts.

That aside, arbitration has a few other advantages over litigation. It affords the parties the opportunity to discuss and agree in advance of any dispute arising, the manner in which the dispute will be resolved, the qualifications and possibly the identity of the person or persons who will be entrusted with resolving the dispute.’

The Bauchi State Orphans and Vulnerable Children Agency (BASOVCA) has condemned in strong terms the self-immolation incident involving a woman who set herself ablaze at the late Prime Minister’s residence in Bauchi.

In a press release on Friday, signed by the Chairperson of BASOVCA, Hajiya Yelwa Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the agency expressed deep sadness over the tragic development.

Hajiya Yelwa, who doubles as Chairperson of BASOVCA, described the act as unfortunate and extended her deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.

She noted that the incident ‘is a stark reminder of the need for increased mental health support and the resuscitation of religious education amongst the populace to understand the spiritual consequences of suicide in the hereafter.’

The agency further clarified: ‘We want to categorically state that the deceased woman had no connection whatsoever with Hajiya Yelwa Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chairperson of BASOVCA, or the agency, as there is no record of such a name in the list of the agency’s orphans and vulnerable interventions.’

According to BASOVCA, ‘The woman’s actions were her own and did not reflect the values or mission of BASOVCA.’

It added: ‘Therefore, the thoughts and prayers of the agency are with the family of the deceased during this difficult time. We urge everyone to prioritise their mental health and seek help when needed.’

The agency also commended the swift response of the Bauchi State Police Command and their efforts to investigate the incident, expressing hope for a thorough probe that will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

‘In conclusion, BASOVCA remains resolute in its mission of supporting vulnerable children and families in Bauchi State. We will continue to work tirelessly to make a positive impact in our communities, local governments, and the state at large,’ it stressed.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has dismissed the notion that Jihad in Islam is aimed at killing non-Muslims, stressing that it simply means striving to be the best in one’s endeavours.

Speaking in Abuja at the public presentation of Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, a book authored by former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Lucky Irabor (rtd), the monarch explained that Jihad had long been misrepresented.

‘Jihad is not to kill a non-Muslim by a Muslim. Jihad means to strive, and in whatever you do in life, you strive to be the best you can be.

‘You strive to be a good Muslim, you strive to be a good Christian, you strive to be a good farmer, or a good engineer.

‘So, Jihad is not to kill a non-Muslim; that’s a wrong notion people have been airing out for decades,’ he stated.

The Sultan, who is also the Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, cautioned against extremism, stressing that Islam is guided by clear codes rooted in the Quran, the Hadith, and the consensus of clerics.

‘And these are written. So, we have a code of conduct; we have ways and means of life; the Holy Quran and the Hadith of our most noble Prophet (SA), and the consensus of the Ulama, that is, the clerics.

‘These are the three things guiding us. Anybody coming outside these to say things that he really doesn’t know about is not for Islam because Islam abhors extremism.

‘You cannot be an extremist and then claim to be a good Muslim,’ he said.

He also rejected suggestions that Islamism is about capturing political power, noting that its true focus is on good governance.

‘Islamism is not aimed at seizing power at any particular forum. Islam is after good governance in society,’ he said.

Recalling past controversies, the Sultan explained that his comments on Islam and leadership values were sometimes wrongly interpreted as political.

‘In September 2019, I gave a talk on Islam and good governance in Nigeria. President Buhari was just going for his second term.

‘After giving my talk, the following day, the papers carried it [that] I was aiming at President Buhari’s second term because I said things that a good Muslim should do as a leader and what he should not do,’ he explained.

He urged Nigerians to be cautious in their remarks on religion and insecurity, emphasising unity as the path to building a stronger country.

‘So, let’s come closer as one big family with different backgrounds to forge ahead to make this country a better country, because there is nothing anybody can do,’ he added.

The monarch also commended Gen Irabor for sharing his experiences as a military officer who played a major role in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.

A Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to maintain the status quo in a suit filed by lawyer John Aikpokpo-Martins, who is contesting the legality of the newly introduced tinted permit enforcement.

The court’s order comes a day after the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) vowed to provide free legal services to Nigerians harassed by the police over the controversial tinted glass permit, which it described as ‘illegal.’

The NBA, through its Section on Public Interest and Development Law, said the police had no constitutional basis to impose fees or annual renewals on motorists, warning that enforcement of the policy was both unlawful and a revenue-driven scheme.

In a statement on Thursday, the Chairman of the NBA’s Public Interest Litigation Committee, Olukunle Edun (SAN), said: ‘We shall invoke the powers of the court to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force does not trample on the rights of Nigerians. Any citizen who is harassed by the police in the purported enforcement of the illegal tinted glass permit should feel free to contact any of the NBA branches.

‘The Human Rights Committees of the 130 branches of the NBA in Nigeria are ready to offer pro bono services to anyone who is harassed. It has been estimated that the police may generate at least N3bn within a month from monies that will be collected, thus turning the police into a revenue-generating agency of the Federal Government instead of focusing on the more serious issue of crime.’

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has assured Seplat Energy Joint Venture of the state government’s support and a conducive environment for its operations.

Speaking at the 2025 second edition of the Seplat Energy JV PEARLs Quiz competition for secondary schools in Imo State, held in Owerri, the governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. BTO Ikegwuoha, commended Seplat Energy and its partners for bringing the competition to Imo.

He said: ‘Seplat, let us do this again next year. We assure you of the backing of the state government, a conducive environment to operate and impact on the host community meaningfully as we are witnessing today.’

Addressing the students, Uzodimma advised them to see participation as an opportunity to learn rather than focusing only on winning.

Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, represented by Grace Amadi, General Manager, Partner Relations, thanked the joint venture partners, the state government, and the schools for making the quiz a success.

She said: ‘This is a laudable initiative by the NNPC/Seplat JV, dating back to over 12 years. We are happy that this has got to Imo State.’

She explained that the programme aims to prepare students to compete globally, encouraging them to apply their knowledge in practical and innovative ways.

Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NUIMS, Engr. Seyi Omotawa, represented by Minanengiyeofori Loveday, described the quiz as a reflection of NUIMS’ commitment to education and intellectual growth.

He said: ‘We reflect on the journey since our inaugural edition, I am thrilled to see how this event has evolved into a significant platform for young minds to showcase their knowledge and skills.’

He urged the students to focus on learning and collaboration rather than just material rewards.

Similarly, Idi-Ada Itotoi, Managing Director of Eastern Asset, Seplat Energy, represented by Emmanuel Otokhine, congratulated the finalists, saying they had all gained confidence that could help them excel in future challenges.

At the grand finale, Avana Model Secondary School, Owerri, won the first prize of N5 million for school development. Each of the three student representatives received N100,000 in scholarships, and their teacher was awarded a laptop.

Delight International School, Owerri, came second, receiving N3 million for school development, with N75,000 scholarships for each student and a laptop for the teacher.

St John Leonardi Model Secondary School, Owerri, placed third, winning N1 million, with each student receiving N50,000 in scholarships and their teacher also taking home a laptop.

In addition to the PEARLs Quiz, Seplat Energy held a STEAM competition where six schools were rewarded with N250,000 each for innovative projects. The schools included Urban Secondary School, Federal Government Girls College, Mountain Press Secondary School, Benny Poly Max College, Alpha Junior Seminary, and Faith Academy.

Their projects ranged from electronic-driven vehicles and telescopes to artificial intelligence for career guidance, modern architectural designs, oil drilling machines, and digital business platforms.

A 200 level student of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo and son of a member of the State House of Assembly representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency, Hon. Bamidele Adeola is dead.

The deceased died after a brief illness on Friday.

The Oyo lawmaker son’s untimely passing has thrown the family, friends, and the university community into deep mourning.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Et. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has paid a condolence visit to the bereaved family.

Ogundoyin during the visit described the incident as heartbreaking and deeply painful, especially for a young life with such promise and potential.

‘This is a painful loss not just for Hon.Bamidele Adeola and his family, but for all of us who are his colleagues, friends, and fellow parents. Words cannot capture the sorrow we feel at this moment,’ the Speaker said during the visit.

He extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire Oyo State House of Assembly and assured the bereaved family of the Assembly’s prayers and support during this difficult time.

Hon. Bamidele Adeola, surrounded by sympathisers, expressed appreciation for the Speaker’s visit and the outpouring of love from colleagues and the public.

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has warned contractors handling Federal Roads across Edo State to expedite action and complete the projects by October 2025 or face contract termination, adding that the only way to get the economy of a state or a nation to move forward is to build roads.

Hon. Umahi, who gave the warning while on an inspection tour of federal roads across Edo Central and Edo South Senatorial Districts at the weekend, particularly ordered CBC, one of the contractors handling the road project, to return to the site on Monday or face the likelihood of contract termination.

The visit was aimed at assessing first-hand the deplorable state of critical road infrastructure and exploring urgent interventions to ease the burden on commuters.

The inspection tour took the delegation to Ujuelen, the Ekpoma stretch of the Benin-Auchi-Lokoja Expressway, and Egbele in Uromi, where the Minister expressed deep displeasure at the condition of the roads.

The Minister, accompanied by the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to helping the people through quality projects that would impact meaningfully on them.

He said: ‘When we came on board about the time of the election of our dear governor, the stakeholders came to see the President and say, look, we need this place (Benin-Auchi road).

‘In September last year, when a truck fell in this location, it took divers to swim to the point to rescue the driver. And it was a sight that nobody should pray to see.

‘And I think the President saw it. So, when they came and mentioned it, the immediate intervention was to use the BUA tax credit to rescue this place. Today, nobody will understand how this place was. So, I commend BUA very highly.’

Continuing, Umahi said: ‘The job quality is excellent, the speed is good, but I am tasking them in the month of October, if this first 10 by 220k is not finished, I will ground all your operations everywhere in the country until this is done.

‘I think there should be an element of madness to right the wrongs of the past, and you can now go and talk anyhow you want to.

‘So, I am directing CBC to get back to the site while commending them because my conscience is before God. I work for God, Mr President and the people.

‘I am very courageous to do the right thing, and this is very important. So, CCECC, by Monday, you are not working effectively in two sections. I know you have not been mobilised, then forget about that job. We will give it to other people.’

He explained that one of the greatest problems being faced by the Federal Government in terms of building roads is that contractors handling the projects have no more than 25 projects each, inherited from the past administration, and have inadequate personnel to execute the projects.

‘So, they don’t have the personnel or equipment to man those jobs. So, they go into economic politics and say Oh, there is rain, traffic and demand for compensation.

‘But I am poised to address such politics. People are suffering, and the President is committed to righting the wrongs of the past.

‘When we came on board, and I challenge anybody, tell me any state outside what the governors are doing that has 100km of road that you can pass without a challenge?

‘There is none. What BUA is doing is what the President is doing. He is building roads, not constructing roads.

‘Because this is part of the NNPC Tax Credit project. And the President has directed that none of these projects should stop. So, if you see any other stopping, it is our responsibility and we owe the public very serious apologies.

‘So, I have directed the Director of Works on what the contractors need to do nationwide. We need to get the right method statement for the execution of road projects.

‘I think that the contractors on this road have a responsibility to assist, because the hold-up you see, you have to hold me responsible because the President has given every assistance to ensure that this road, all the way from Warri down to Abuja, is in very good condition,’ he disclosed.

Governor Okpebholo, on his part, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for prioritising Edo roads, noting that the administration’s renewed focus has inspired confidence among the people.

He described the APC as a progressive party delivering tangible results, adding, ‘This is a federal road, but Edo people use these roads, and we cannot abandon them.

‘President Tinubu has changed the narrative, and our people are grateful. What our administration is doing is visible to everyone. In the past, the State Government put up signs saying ‘please bear with us’.’

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Gift Johnbull, described the project as a direct product of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ adding that communities along the route are already feeling the impact of federal attention.

Speaking earlier for BUA International, Project Manager, Mohammad Rabiu, assured that the new concrete design being used on the 30km Ekpoma section of the road would ensure longevity.

‘This Ekpoma section was once a death trap. Today, people are smiling. In a few weeks, we will return to commission this project,’ he said.

Director of Federal Highways (Construction and Rehabilitation), Engr. Clement Ogbuagu also commended BUA International for the quality of work delivered on the 30km Ekpoma section.

He explained that the previous contractor’s poor performance necessitated termination before President Tinubu re-awarded the contract under a tax credit scheme.

Governor Okpebholo and Engr. Umahi also visited some parts of the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin-Asaba Expressway, recently handed over to a Concession Company.

In a significant development, Umahi formally handed over the completion of one full carriageway from Ewu to Agbor to the Edo State Government.

He explained that while the Federal Ministry of Works will handle the design, execution will be managed locally by the State Government.