Lifestyle

Retirees Hail Makinde’s Commitment to Pensioners

By Web News 33

By Iyabo Adebisi

The leadership of the South-West Council of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP has lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for what it describes as uncommon compassion, responsibility and sincerity towards retirees in the state since he assumed office in 2019.

The council, in a letter entitled “Letter of appreciation signed by its chairman and signed by its chairman, Mr Waidi Oloyede and secretary, Mr Sunday Akin,  gave the commendation, noting that Governor Makinde has restored the dignity of retirees and instilled hope and confidence in governance.

The leadership of the council hailed the governor for several policy decisions aimed at improving the lives of pensioners in Oyo State.

It added that the consistent payment of pensions on or before 25th of every month has brought financial stability and renewed confidence to retirees, while the governor’s payment of outstanding gratuities dating back to 2008, beginning with N500 million monthly releases in 2019 and progressively increasing over the years to an impressive N6 billion as of February 2026, showed that Makinde has a strong commitment to clearing inherited liabilities in line with his promise.

The letter read in part: “The Leadership of the South-West Zonal Council of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, on behalf of Oyo State Pensioners, writes with immense pride, deep appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to commend Your Excellency for your exceptional and people-oriented leadership, particularly in advancing the welfare of pensioners in Oyo State. 

“Since your assumption of office in 2019, your administration has demonstrated uncommon compassion, responsibility and sincerity of purpose towards retirees, thereby restoring dignity, hope and confidence in governance.

“Your historic and selfless decision to forfeit your personal remuneration to the payment of pensioners’ gratuities from the very first day of your inauguration stands as a rare and exemplary act of sacrifice in public service. 

“This singular gesture has significantly eased the burden of suffering pensioners in Oyo State.

“We also commend your administration for reversing the painful regime of percentage pension payments, as experienced under the previous administration of Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi, the former Governor of Oyo State, and restoring full payment of monthly pensions. The consistent payment of pensions on or before 25th of every month has brought financial stability and renewed confidence among retirees.

“Your deliberate intervention in the payment of long outstanding gratuities dating back to 2008, beginning with N500million monthly releases in 2019 and progressively increasing over the years to an impressive N6 billion as of February 2026, reflects visionary leadership and a strong commitment to clearing inherited liabilities.

“Furthermore, your institutionalisation of minimum pension, alongside the implementation of various pension increments, including the 33 per cent increase of 2010, the 2019 consequential adjustment, the 20 per cent increment in February 2024 and the additional N17,500 increase, have significantly improved the living conditions of pensioners across the State.

“We also deeply appreciate your inclusion of pensioners in a free health insurance scheme, as well as the organisation of periodic medical outreach programmes, which have enhanced access to quality healthcare for our elderly members.

“Your thoughtful introduction of a N50,000 Christmas bonus for every pensioner since 2023 and the distribution of food items such as bag of rice during festive periods, further underscores your administration’s humane and compassionate approach to governance.

“Equally commendable is your bold and corrective action in restoring over 3000 pensioners back to payroll who were previously removed. This act of justice has brought relief and restored dignity to many affected individuals and their families.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Politics

OSHA Assembly Warns Against Poll Manipulation

By Web News 76

By Olufunke Adeosun

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, says it will resist any form of electoral manipulation, defend democracy, protect institutional integrity, and safeguard the will of the people before and during the August 15th governorship poll in the state.

The speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Mr Wale Egbedun stated this at a press conference held at the parliamentary section of the assembly.

Mr Egbedun while reacting to the redeployment of the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Mr Mutiu Agboke said the sudden redeployment of Mr Agboke and the planned deployment of other key officials across the state were not acceptable.

Mr Egbedun maintained that all calculated efforts, no matter how structured, could not alter the resolve of Osun state residents to ensure that their votes count and reflect their true choice.

The speaker, however, called the attention of the international community, development partners, and all observers of democratic governance to the political developments in the State.
Edited by Adetutu Adetule
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Legislature

Assembly Moves to Curb Land Grabbing, Fake Agents

By Web News 65

By Mosope Kehinde

The Oyo State House of Assembly has taken decisive steps to address rising concerns in the State’s real Estate sector, following the consideration of a report presented by the Standing House Committee on Lands, Housing, and Survey.

In his presentation, the Committee Chairman, Mr Bamidele Adeola, representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency, who highlighted the critical challenges to include fraudulent activities, unregulated agents, and persistent Land Grabbing, called for the prompt adoption of resolutions aimed at restoring orderliness in the sector and protection of residents in the State.

The assembly however urged the Executive Arm of Government, through the Oyo State Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development to take immediate and strategic actions in ensuring the establishment of a comprehensive database for registration of all Real Estate Developers operating within the State.

According to the lawmakers, this will enhance transparency, promote accountability, and curb fraudulent practices as well as illegal extortion of residents. 

The House also emphasised the need for the Ministry to intensify its engagement with various house agent associations across the State, in order to ensure proper registration, eliminate unregistered and unscrupulous agents, and ultimately safeguard the interests of both tenants and landlords.

The House however reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe, transparent and well-regulated property market in Oyo State, stressing that these measures are critical to protecting residents and fostering sustainable urban development.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

Police Apprehend 27-year-old over Murder

By Web News 169

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 27-year-old man, Chidi Ebere, for the alleged murder of a commercial motorcyclist in Igbesa area of the state.

The incident occurred early Wednesday morning when the suspect reportedly hired a motorcycle ridden by 36-year-old Sunday Ogbu.

During the trip, the suspect allegedly attacked the rider in an attempt to steal the motorcycle, leading to a violent struggle.

Witnesses raised the alarm, attracting the attention of Police officers who quickly reported to the scene.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the incident in a statement adding that the victim was rushed to a hospital but was later confirmed dead.

Mr Babaseyi said that the suspect was arrested on the spot, while the motorcycle and a knife believed to have been used in the attack were recovered.

Mr PPRO confirmed that the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Health

Causes, Management of Postpartum Blindness

By Web News 69

By Titilayo Kupoliyi

Postpartum blindness is medically described as a visual disturbance or acute vision loss that usually occur in women between the first six to eight weeks after child birth.

The symptoms include blurry vision, flashes, or spots.

A Medical Doctor, Gbolahan Dairo, said postpartum blindness was a rare but severe medical emergency, transient in nature and may be associated with severe childbirth complications.
He explained that this condition could affect the brain, blood circulation and heart.

He listed major causes of Postpartum blindness to include; Pre- eclampsia, (High blood pressure in pregnancy), protein in urine and Eclampsia which is seizures that occur in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia.

Symptoms of Postpartum blindness include loss of blood supply to the brain, particularly after severe blood loss, retinal detachment(separation), Hemorrhage(bleeding), damage to the eyes often from high pressure and
Severe anemia due to blood loss during delivery.

Some women share their experiences on the medical condition:
Tochi Ujunwa says “I lost my sight two weeks after giving birth.
Rsther Akomaya had this to say ” I went blind two weeks after giving birth but thank God I regained my sight”.
Chioma Okonkwo-Okon ” I experienced a temporary vision issue, when I gave birth to my last baby, but my sight was restored within a few minutes “.
Tolulope Odumusi “pre-eclampsia almost got me blind. Mt first six months was a blur vision”.
Chinyere Nnokwam ” I lost my sight when I was giving birth. The midwife checked my blood pressure and it was normal ” God restored my sight immediately my child came”.

Dr Dairo however said Postpartum blindness could be managed through
treatment of pre-eclampsia and prevention of eclampsia during pregnancy, monitoring of vital signs during pregnancy – Blood Pressure, Urinalysis, Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Pelvic scan.

“Health education on Nutrition during pregnancy, use of skilled staff during delivery, treatment of anemia during pregnancy and after delivery are also vital in the management of Postpartum blindness”.He said

Dr Dairo noted that comprehensive maternal healthcare, continuous monitoring and timely response to any unusual symptoms after childbirth was key in preventing maternal morbidity and death.

Also to prevent Postpartum blindness, the medical practitioner emphasised that, government had a role to play.

According to Dr. Dairo, government is greatly needed in the strengthening of maternal care by making it more affordable and accessible, equipping labour ward with modern equipments and supporting mandatory laboratory investigations for all pregnant mothers.

“Promoting best practices – Training health staff on essential interventions such as infection control management of postpartum bleeding, and early, management of Hypertension in pregnancy. Establishing screening programmes for pre-eclampsia or eclampsia in pregnancy and nutritional assessment for all pregnant mothers,
Ensuring access to postnatal (period within 8 weeks after delivery of baby services. – mother and baby care
Education awareness- Educating families on the importance of hospital deliveries and warning signs of post- natal blindness.Establishment of National Programs: Developing national and state-level blindness-prevention committees to coordinate, monitor, and assess eye health policies, such as the National Program for Control of Blindness”, Dr Dairo suggested.

Due to low level of awareness on the medical condition, people often associate it spiritual forces.
Dr Dairo therefore suggested that aggressive campaign be embarked upon by government to enlighten people on the illness.

Dr Dairo however, pointed out that it was imperative for families of any patient who suffered Postpartum blindness to be supportive financially, physically and psycologically as it would aid the healing of the patient.

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Foreign

Trump Threatens Tariffs on Iran Arms Suppliers

By Web News 98

United States President, Donald Trump says imports from countries supplying Iran with military weapons will face immediate 50 percent tariffs with no exemptions, announcing the threatened duty in a social media post just hours after agreeing to a two-week ceasefire with Tehran.

Trump’s Truth Social post on Wednesday did not specify which legal authority he would invoke to impose such tariffs, as the Supreme Court in February struck down his use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, IEEPA, to impose broad global tariffs, prompting a lower court to order refunds of some $166bn collected over the course of a year.

The 1977 IEEPA law has been used extensively for decades to back financial sanctions against Iran, Russia and North Korea, but the court ruled that Trump overstepped his authority in using it to impose trade tariffs.

“A Country supplying Military Weapons to Iran will be immediately tariffed, on any and all goods sold to the United States of America, 50%, effective immediately. There will be no exclusions or exemptions! President DJT,” Trump wrote.

However, “it’s a lot more complicated to do that after IEEPA was struck down”, Rachel Ziemba, adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security, told Al Jazeera. “There’s no immediate policy lever and authorisation that is available for the US to do that. So they need either an act of Congress or need to adapt some other trade tool, and there isn’t really a national security-oriented trade tool.”

Trump did not name any countries that could face punitive tariffs. China and Russia have helped Iran build military capacity to counter US and Israeli pressure, supplying missiles, air defence systems and technology intended to bolster deterrence.

But that support appeared capped during the US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Both Beijing and Moscow have denied supplying any weapons recently, although allegations against Moscow have persisted.

The Reuters news agency has previously reported that Tehran was considering a purchase of supersonic antiship cruise missiles from China. In March, Reuters reported that China’s top semiconductor maker, SMIC, has sent chipmaking tools to Iran’s military, according to two senior Trump administration officials.

“This is a China-related threat, the way I read it. And China will read it that way,” said Josh Lipsky, vice president and chair of international economics at the Atlantic Council.

Although drone and missile parts routinely flow from Chinese entities to Iran, evading US sanctions, Lipsky said Trump was unlikely to follow through with new tariffs in the near term because that would derail his planned trip to Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in mid-May.

“US tariffs on Chinese products have gone down a lot since the court ruling,” said Ziemba, “and slapping on 50 percent tariffs now would be very expensive, especially for US importers and consumers.”

Moreover, with the Trump-Xi meeting looming, “this is kind of an empty threat, but shows that when push comes to shove, Trump comes back to tariffs”, Ziemba said.

Aljazeera/Adetutu Adetule

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Health

OGWAMA Goes Tough on Waste Offenders

By Web News 77

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Waste Management Authority, OGWAMA, has arrested and prosecuted one hundred and eight waste offenders in Abeokuta.

The offenders were apprehended by the OGWAMA enforcement team in different parts of the state capital for dumping refuse on roadsides, public places and medians, contrary to the state waste management law.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on OGWAMA, Alhaji Farook  Akintunde, said the offenders were prosecuted in customary courts within the state capital and fined to serve as a deterrent.

Alhaji Akintunde described the development as unfortunate, noting that despite sustained sensitisation and provision of waste collection services, some residents still engage in indiscriminate dumping.

He urged residents to make use of approved Private Sector Participants assigned to their areas for proper waste disposal, warned that indiscriminate waste disposal poses environmental and health risks, including flooding and groundwater contamination, especially during the rainy season.

The Special Adviser reaffirmed the government’s resolve to sustain enforcement and called on residents to comply with environmental regulations or face prosecution.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi/Adetutu Adetule

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Education

Chrisland University, FRCN Strengthen Partnership Talks

By Web News 78

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

The Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Professor Oyedunni Arulogun has emphasised the importance of strategic collaboration between the media and academic institutions in advancing national development.

Professor Arulogun made this known while receiving the management team of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station, led by the Zonal Director, Mr Olufemi Fulani, during a courtesy visit to the university.

The Vice Chancellor, who commended FRCN for promoting partnership opportunities to enhance knowledge sharing and institutional growth, said the synergy would help to showcase research activities and promote innovation within the academic community.

Professor Arulogun expressed optimism that the collaboration of the media and educational institutions would strengthen town and gown relations to ensure sustainable social and economic development in the country.

Earlier, the Zonal Director, FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr Femi Fulani highlighted the significance of development journalism, noting that modern media practice required active engagements towards enhancing public education, social advancement and innovation.

Mr Fulani called for stronger cooperation between Chrisland University and the FRCN to facilitate joint initiatives, programmes sponsorship and corporate social responsibility efforts aimed at positively impacting the society.

He also reaffirmed the Corporation’s commitment to supporting innovation and promoting positive narratives, emphasising that the media remained a key partner in nation-building, particularly in amplifying impactful initiatives.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Legislature

Legislators Endorse Speaker’s Governorship Ambition

By Web News 69

By Mosope Kehinde 

The Oyo State House of Assembly lawmakers have unanimously endorsed the governorship ambition of the Speaker, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin.

The endorsement was initiated at plenary, during “Matter Under Adjournment” by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Muhammad Fadeyi, who represents Ona Ara State Constituency.

In his presentation, Mr Fadeyi commended the Speaker’s leadership trajectory, describing him as a stabilising force within the legislature whose stewardship has strengthened legislative-executive harmony in Oyo State.

In their contributions, other lawmakers including the Majority Leader, Mr. Sanjo Adedoyin, Mr. Babajide Gabriel, Mr. Abiola Olalekan, Mr. Olusola Owolabi, and Mr. Gbenga Oyekola described the Speaker as a leader who has demonstrated capacity beyond expectations.

The motion was subsequently subjected to a voice vote by the presiding officer, after which members supported the endorsement

In his response, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin expressed appreciation to his colleagues for the confidence reposed in him, describing the endorsement as a major encouragement.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

Man in Police Net for Alledgedly Stabbing Two to Death

By Web News 157

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Operatives of Ogun State Police Command have arrested a 25 year old Abubakar Musa for allegedly killing two persons and injuring three others at Olámbe area of the state.

In a statement, the Spokesperson of the command, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the arrest of the suspect in Abeokuta.

Mr Babaseyi explained that the suspect allegedly attacked the victims with a knife when they were trying to calm him down after failing in some business deals. 

The command’s spokesperson noted that two out of the five people the suspect stabbed were confirmed dead at the hospital while the remaining three persons were responding to treatment.

He said that the suspect had been sent to the State Criminal Investigation Department for investigation and prosecution.

Mr Babaseyi pointed out that the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Mr Bode Ojajuni, condemned the attack and promised that justice would be served. 

He urged people to stay alert and report any suspicious or violent behaviour to the police.

Edited by Adetutu Adetule

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Crime

Police Rescue Nine Foreigners from Ogun Fraud Syndicate

By Web News 192

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Police Command has rescued nine foreign nationals and arrested two suspects linked to a transnational fraud syndicate operating in the state.

The suspects, Stephen Kwame and Abubakar Sulaimon, were apprehended at their hideout in Owode-Egba in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.

Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the arrest followed actionable intelligence received through the International Criminal Police Organisation, INTERPOL.

He explained that operatives swiftly mobilised to the location where a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, Maclaud Owusu, was being unlawfully detained.

Mr Babaseyi said the operation led to the rescue of Owusu alongside eight other victims who were held under similar conditions noting that all the victims were rescued without injuries.

According to the police spokesperson, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects belong to an organised syndicate that lures foreign nationals, particularly from Ghana, with false promises of facilitating travel to Europe.

He noted that upon arrival in Nigeria, the victims were deceived, confined and forced to surrender their mobile phones, which were then used to contact their relatives for financial extortion.

Mr Babaseyi added that the principal victim had already been defrauded of thirty-one thousand Ghana cedis before the police intervention.

He stated that the suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

The police spokesperson also said the rescued victims are receiving necessary care.

Mr Babaseyi added that the principal victim has been reunited with his family, while efforts are ongoing to reconnect the others with their relatives.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Security

Oyo Police Call for Vigilance in Border Communities

By Web News 109

By Abisola Oluremi

The Oyo State Police Command has urged traditional rulers, community leaders and residents, particularly those in border communities, to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security authorities to help curb crime across the state.

Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO in Oyo State, Mr Olayinka Ayanlade, made the call in a statement, stressing that timely information from the public would strengthen crime prevention and enable security agencies to respond swiftly to incidents.

He explained that the directive aligns with ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to reinforce security structures and enhance public safety nationwide.

According to the command, it has intensified proactive security deployments across the state through increased visibility policing, strategic placement of patrol vehicles and improved operational readiness to ensure faster response to distress calls and emergencies.

Mr Ayanlade added that the ongoing joint night patrol initiative, code-named “Convoy Patrol,” has strengthened collaboration among security agencies and improved their capacity to address existing and emerging security threats.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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News

Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, others Join ADC Rally over INEC Decisions

By Web News 167

Leaders and members of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, joined a large demonstration in Abuja on Wednesday, protesting decisions by the Independent National Electoral Commission that they said undermined democracy and the party’s internal leadership.

The protest, tagged #OccupyINEC, drew former presidential candidates and prominent politicians, including Rotimi Amaechi, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rauf Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal, and Dino Melaye, to Maitama Roundabout. Among others, hundreds of Kwankwasiyya members also participated.

The demonstration saw participants singing Nigeria’s former national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots!”, despite the fact that it was replaced on May 29, 2024, by President Bola Tinubu with the country’s 1960 independence anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee.”

The ADC further confirmed that the act was done “in an act of defiance.”

Several demonstrators also held placards supporting Senator David Mark, including ones that read, “In David Mark’s NWC we trust.”

Addressing the protest, former presidential candidate Peter Obi spoke on behalf of ADC members and other opposition leaders, urging Nigerians to defend the country’s democracy.

He said on X: “We, members and leaders of the ADC, and other well-meaning Nigerians, lovers of democracy, are saying that our democracy must not be killed.

“We say NO to a one-party system, and for that, today we’re calling out Nigerians who believe in unity, peace, and security of our country to join us as we defend democracy in our land.”

The protest follows INEC’s recent decision to no longer accept correspondence from either faction of the ADC led by Senator David Mark or Nafiu Bala, after a Court of Appeal judgment on the party’s leadership dispute. ADC and other opposition groups described the move as a restriction on party autonomy and an interference with internal party affairs.

National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko,  had earlier told The PUNCH the demonstration aimed to mobilise Nigerians in defence of democracy.

“This commission is now becoming the arbiter, judge, accuser and defender at the same time. Our major issue is the manner in which INEC has been going about creating disaffection in the opposition.

“The people are really angry and plan to show this anger by coming out. So, we’ll expect them to come out en masse for a peaceful rally. Then we’ll just demonstrate and protest,” he said.

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

Foreign

US, Iran Agree to 11th-hour Truce

By Web News 101

The United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire barely an hour before President Donald Trump’s Wednesday deadline to obliterate the country, triggering global relief alongside apprehension.

Tehran has agreed to temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, through which much of the world’s oil, gas and fertiliser passes, easing concerns for the battered global economy.

While the announcement was broadly welcomed internationally, much work remained to prevent a return to fighting, with UN chief Antonio Guterres calling for all parties to “pave the way towards a lasting and comprehensive peace”.

Underlining the precarity of the deal, there were explosions on Wednesday morning in Bahrain’s Manama, with authorities blaming “Iranian aggression”.

Both Tehran and Washington claimed to have won the more than month-long conflict, with Trump telling AFP the deal was a “total and complete victory” for the US.

Iran, too, cast the ceasefire as a win and said it had agreed to talks with the US beginning on Friday in Pakistan on a path to end the conflict.

“The enemy has suffered an undeniable, historic and crushing defeat in its cowardly, illegal and criminal war against the Iranian nation,” said a statement from the Iranian Supreme National Security Council.

“Iran achieved a great victory.”

The White House said Israel had also agreed to the ceasefire, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it does not include Lebanon, where Israel’s operation in response to rocket fire by Iranian-backed Hezbollah has killed more than 1,500 people, according to Lebanese authorities.

On Wednesday, the Israeli military pressed on with the war in Lebanon, warning residents of one building near the southern city of Tyre to evacuate, with Lebanese state media reporting renewed strikes.

Israel had encouraged Trump to launch the war against Iran, its arch-foe, and in the first strikes killed Tehran’s long-serving supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

A peace agreement would leave in place the Islamic republic despite US and Israeli hopes of toppling it. The United States and Israel said that they attacked Iran to degrade its military capacity.

– ‘Safe opening’ –

Trump said he had spoken to Pakistan’s leaders who “requested that I hold off the destructive force being sent tonight to Iran.”

He later told AFP he believed China had helped get Tehran to negotiate.

“Subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday.

Trump had set a deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz by midnight GMT.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed safe passage for two weeks for ships through the strait, which Tehran sealed off in retaliation for the war.

“If attacks against Iran are halted, our Powerful Armed Forces will cease their defensive operations,” Araghchi said.

Later on Wednesday, Trump posted on social media that the US would “be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz”.

– Uranium to be ‘taken care of’ –

Oil prices plunged by more than 17 percent after the ceasefire announcement, while European natural gas dropped 20 percent. Stock prices also soared in early trade Wednesday in Asia.

Trump said the United States was “very far along” in negotiating a long-term agreement with Iran, which had submitted a 10-point plan that he said was “workable.”

But Iran publicly released points that took maximalist positions, including lifting long-standing US sanctions, guaranteeing its own “dominion” over the strait and removing US forces from the region.

Crucially, it also said its plan would require Washington to accept its uranium enrichment programme.

Trump has alleged that Iran was near to building an atomic bomb, an assertion not backed by the UN nuclear watchdog and most observers.

He insisted the nuclear material would be covered by any peace deal.

“That will be perfectly taken care of, or I wouldn’t have settled,” Trump told AFP, without giving any specifics about what would happen to the uranium.

Trump would not say whether he would go back to his original threats to lay waste to all power plants and bridges across the country of 90 million people if the deal fell apart.

“You’re going to have to see,” he told AFP.

The US leader had made threats shocking even by his own standards when he warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.”

– Heavy strikes before deadline –

The US and Israel struck key infrastructure before Trump’s deadline, with Netanyahu saying attacks hit railways and bridges allegedly used by the Revolutionary Guards.

Iran has retaliated with weeks of drone and missile attacks on Gulf Arab states, citing their role as hubs for US troops.

The attacks have shattered the monarchies’ hard-fought reputation for safety and stability.

On Wednesday, the United Arab Emirates, which bore the brunt of Iran’s Gulf attacks, also claimed victory.

“The UAE emerged victorious from a war we sincerely sought to avoid,” presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said in a post on X.

Much global reaction, however, focused on the need to turn the ceasefire into a workable peace deal.

Oman, which mediated unsuccessful talks between Washington and Tehran that were halted by the war, spoke of “the importance of intensifying efforts… to identify solutions capable of resolving the crisis at its roots”.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced an immediate visit to the Gulf and declared “we must do all we can to support and sustain this ceasefire, turn it into a lasting agreement and re-open the Strait of Hormuz”.

AFP/Olaolu Fawole

Culture

Olubadan Rolls Out Security, Economic Initiatives

By Web News 104

By Olawale Asake

The Olubadan of Ibadanland and Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has inaugurated the Ibadan Community Guards to boost grassroots security.

Oba Ladoja held the ceremony at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan which prominent sons and daughters of Ibadan attended, including members of the Olubadan Advisory Council.

The monarch said the guards will work with government security agencies to improve policing across the eleven local government areas in Ibadanland.

He said security is a shared responsibility, noting that the government cannot handle it alone.

The monarch also launched “Gaari Ibadan,” an initiative of the Economic and Investment Committee a project which aims to revive struggling companies and investments in the city.

Former Minister of Trade and Investment, Chief Onikepo Akande, who chairs the committee, said traditional institutions must go beyond preserving culture and also help shape the city’s economic future.

Former Head of Service of the Federation, Professor Oladapo Afolabi, who serves as co-chairman, attended the event while Mogajis, Baales, and other committee members were also present.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Entertainment

Veteran Actor, Clarus of New Masquerade Dies

By Web News 569

Spicy & Trendy

Veteran Nollywood actor, Davis Ofor, popularly known as Clarus in the 1980s sitcom, New Masquerade, is dead.

The news of his passing was announced on Tuesday by a fellow actor, Tony Akposheri, in an Instagram post.

Akposheri expressed shock and sadness over the death of the actor, recalling their recent interactions.

He revealed that they had recently spent time together during the New Year, sharing memories and discussing future plans.

“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Ofor, fondly known as Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone.

“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead,” he wrote.

“We spoke about life, about plans, about how far we had come. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you.”

Describing the late actor as more than just a screen personality, Akposheri paid tribute to his character and impact.

“You were more than a familiar face on screen. You were a friend, a brother, a man with warmth, humour, and a presence that could light up any space,” he wrote.

“It is hard to believe that the voice I heard not long ago is now a memory. Hard to accept that someone so full of life can suddenly become a story we tell.”

He added, “Rest well, my friend. You came, you gave joy, you made your mark, and you will never be forgotten.”

Clarus gained prominence for his role in New Masquerade, one of Nigeria’s most popular television comedy shows, where his character became a household name.

Details surrounding the cause of his death were not immediately available.

Ofor rose to prominence for his role as Clarus in New Masquerade, a widely acclaimed Nigerian television comedy that aired on the Nigerian Television Authority and became a household favourite in the 1980s.

His portrayal of the comic character earned him national recognition and endeared him to audiences across the country, making Clarus one of the most memorable figures in Nigerian television history.

Culled/Adetutu Adetule

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Health

NARD Suspends Strike

By Web News 178

The National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, on Tuesday announced the suspension of its planned strike after reaching an understanding with the Federal Government on key demands, including payment of outstanding allowances and improvements in doctors’ welfare.

The decision was taken after an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council, where members reviewed assurances from government representatives and resolved to give dialogue another chance.

NARD said the suspension was informed by “progress made” in negotiations, particularly commitments on the prompt payment of salary arrears, hazard allowances, and steps toward resolving issues surrounding the Medical Residency Training Fund.

Although the association did not declare a full resolution of the dispute, it noted that the government had shown “renewed willingness” to address the concerns that triggered the strike threat.

Resident doctors in Nigeria have repeatedly clashed with the Federal Government over welfare issues, including irregular salary payments, inadequate hazard allowances, and poor hospital infrastructure.

The recurring disputes have contributed to brain drain in the health sector, with many Nigerian doctors seeking better opportunities abroad.

The University College Hospital President, Dr Uthman Adedeji, disclosed this on Tuesday, noting that the development is in line with the directive from the national body.

Dr Adedeji said the strike was suspended after an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting, during which NARD directed members nationwide to resume by 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

He explained that the decision followed the federal government’s reversal of its stance on the revised professional allowance and a commitment to address other outstanding issues raised by the association.

The crisis stems from the implementation of a revised Professional Allowance Table negotiated between NARD and the Federal Government following a prolonged strike in 2025. The agreement included improved remuneration packages for resident doctors, covering call duty allowances, shift allowances, rural posting incentives, and non-clinical duty payments.

Although implementation was initially scheduled to commence in January 2026, delays pushed the rollout to February. However, NARD alleged that the government is now planning to discontinue the process by April, a move the association says undermines trust and violates prior agreements.

Punch/Adetutu Adetule

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Entertainment

Celebrities Predict Cute Abiola’s Baby Gender

By Web News 289

Spicy & Trendy

…with Adetutu Adetule

Nigerian skitmaker and actor Abdulgafar Abiola, popularly known as Cute Abiola, has shared a heartwarming moment from his baby’s gender reveal celebration.

On his Instagram page, he shared a clip from their gender reveal party, thanking his colleagues for making a video to predict their baby’s gender.

In the clip, Funke Akindele, Veekee James, Mercy Aigbe, Femi Adebayo, Kamo State, Muyiwa Ademola, Rotimi Salami, and more stars revealed their prediction for the baby’s gënder, with the majority picking a girl.

Abiola expressed gratitude to them for taking the time out to be part of their beautiful moment. He stated that their love, prayers, and kind words truly mean a lot to him.

“GENDER REVEAL!!! BOY OR GIRL?
Chai! This video is worth billions.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to be part of this beautiful moment with my family, your love, prayers, and kind words truly mean a lot to me.

Taking your time to record these videos, celebrate with us, and share in our joy is something I don’t take for granted.

We appreciate every one of you a lot. May celebration never depart from your homes.
Thank you for the love always”.

Recalled, the weekend that the skitmaker had announced the birth of his second child, whose gender he didn’t reveal. He shared family maternity photos, revealing that they welcomed the child on the 4th of March. The father of two expressed excitement at being a father of two, stating that a new chapter had begun in his family.

Counting her blessings, his wife, said God gave her everything she asked for. She expressed gratitude for the answered prayers.

In 2023 the actor and skit maker had welcomed his first child with his wife, a baby boy. Giving fans a glimpse at his son, the famous online comedian revealed his name as Amir Abiodun IyanuOluwa.

In April 2022, rumours made rounds that the skitmaker’s marriage had allegedly hit the rock over the skitmaker’s cheating allegations and sex for role skits.

Following the reports, the couple severed ties on social media. However, the couples were able to patch up their marriage and Cute Abiola surprised his wife with a car.

In different news, his colleague, Biodun Okeowo had slammed a troll who questioned her relationship with Abiola. She said she doesn’t blame him, but the blogger who peddled the rumours, praying that the God of justice expose and disgrace the blogger.

Recall that in 2023, the curvy actress was alleged to have been romantically involved with the skitmaker. This prompted Cute Abiola’s wife to publish some leaked chats on social media, which showed how Omoborty asked Cute Abiola about his penis functioning.

Addressing it, Biodun revealed how she had been bullied by people over the false rumors. In a video, while holding the Bible, she bitterly cursed those who accused her of sleeping with him. She revealed that she kept quiet about the affair because her man and children told her not to speak out, but she, however, decided to as trolls kept attaching her to him.

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Health

Oral Sex Causes Throat Cancer – Dr Alawode

By Web News 163

By Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

It slips in stealthily and finds a hiding place in the  body of its host.

It stays there quietly without giving its host the faintest idea a stranger is living in it.

But, it has a mission which is very deadly and doesn’t play up early until it is fully accomplished.

This is when it has begun ravaging the body of its host.

That is when its identity is detected upon investigation.

It is the Human Papiloma Virus, HPV.

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection  and the leading cause of cervical cancer.

Studies reveal that you can get HPV by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. A person with HPV can pass the infection to someone even when they have no signs or symptoms.

As explained by  an Obstetrics Gynecologist based in the US, Dr Nelson Alawode, Cervical Cancer is not genetic, it is caused by HPV. “This same virus will cause infection in the cervix, it will cause infection in the throat and it affect the rectum. It is the second most common cancer among women in Nigeria and leading cause of cancer deaths among women between 15 and 44”.Dr Alawode said.

Dr Nelson Aderemi Alawode OB/GYN

According to the statistics given by the Obstetrics/ Gynecologist, it is estimated that about 18.4 percent of women may have the disease.

However because HPV is often linked with the cervix, many people do not know HPV causes throat infection that leads to throat cancer, known as oropharyngeal cancer (the area of the tonsils and back of the throat.

Oropharyngeal or throat cancer with organs and tumors or cancerous cells 3D rendering illustration. Anatomy, oncology, pharynx disease, medical, biology, science, healthcare concepts.

Statistics show that those who engage in oral sex are more likely to develop oropharyngeal cancer than those who do not practise oral sex. Dr Alawode explained that this type of cancer is caused by HPV through oral sex.“If you decide to engage in oral sex, you are eligible to have throat infection which can lead to throat cancer and if you engage in rectal sex, you are eligible to have rectal infection which can lead to rectal cancer”. Dr Alawode explained.

How Oral HPV is Transmitted 

HPV is sexually transmitted. A person performing oral sex on a partner with genital HPV can contract the virus in their mouth, or a person with oral HPV can pass it to a partner’s genital area.

What this means is that, when the genitals of an infected partner comes in contact with the mouth, throat or lips of  the partner(s) involved in oral sex, Oral HPV is transmitted.

Quoting Dr Alawode, “The HPV virus can lodge in the urethra, scrotum or any part of the genitals and shed out through sexual activity which is not seen with the naked eye, to the throat, resulting in the infection that causes oral cancer”.

ICYMI:What You Don’t Know About HPV

https://www.facebook.com/PremierFM935/videos/784293144377669/?app=fbl

Who is At Risk

Both men and women with multiple sexual partners are at risk.

Dr Alawode unveiled the mask saying,”God created sex and it’s good in the context of marriage, i.e, between a man and a woman. If you as a man have a wife and that’s the only person you have affair with, no troubles.But if you decide to engage with multiple sexual partners, there are consequences”.

Shocking Revelation!

The gynecologist further explained that the body’s risk assessment for Sexually Transmitted Infections is not linear. He said, “If a man has been with five women outside marriage, and those women also have multiple partners, the body essentially ‘sees’ a broader network of having come into contact with forty one partners. Likewise, if you’re exposed to twelve partners and the twelve also behave like you, the body ‘sees’ it as having been in sexual contact with four thousand people”.

More Truth Unveiled About HPV

Unlike other Sexually Transmitted Infections such as Gonorrhea, Syphilis and Chlamydia,which can be treated with antibiotics, because they are bacterial infections, Dr Alawode made it clear that HPV could not be treated with antibiotics because it is a viral infection.

Does HPV  Show Symptoms?

” You want to know the truth”? Dr Alawode asked?

He responded, “Majority of the time, there are no symptoms and by the time you get symptoms, it’s probably very bad,it would have got out of hands, bad vaginal discharge, mouth odour.

Any Solution?

In the words of Dr Alawode, “Prevention is better than cure.I will recommend that  Nigeria should encourage a national campaign on HPV vaccine. The vaccine was introduced in 2006. It has worked well in Brazil, Mexico and Netherlands. Girls and boys between the ages of 9- 14 should be vaccinated against HPV.

There’s need to increase our surveillance because there are a hundred types of HPV. The vaccine is good because they make it go after nine of the most prevalent viruses found in the cancer cells especially 16, 18, 51,33, 45,53, 55 among others”. The Gynecologist advised”.

He equally urged people to respect God’s original plan for marriage which is a man and a woman and remain faithful, emphasizing that having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of contracting HPV.

Dr Nelson AdereminAlawode is a highly esteemed Obstetrics/Gynaecologist with over thirty years of medical mastery.

Dr Nelson A. Alawode

He works at MedStar Health, a major healthcare provider in Maryland, Washington D.C., USA.

You can get to know Dr Alawode more via his website, https://www.myhealth-mylife.org

Transportation

Lagos Closes Road for Project Inauguration

By Web News 124

Lagos State Government has announced partial road closures across key parts of the state for the commissioning of critical infrastructure projects scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said the temporary closures were necessary to ensure safety and the smooth conduct of the events.

The government advised motorists to plan their movements and avoid affected corridors during the specified periods to minimise traffic disruptions and delays.

According to the statement, the Opebi-Mende Link Bridge will be commissioned on Wednesday, April 8, between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., affecting traffic in the Opebi-Allen, Ikeja and Ojota areas.

“All motorists transiting this corridor during the specified hours should seek alternative routes to avoid congestion and ensure timely arrival at their destinations,” the statement said.

On Thursday, April 9, two commissioning events are scheduled between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The first is the commissioning of the Tolu Schools Complex, which will affect traffic in the Olodi Apapa and Ajegunle areas.

Motorists operating in these areas were advised to plan alternative routes and allow additional travel time.

Later in the day, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., another event will be held at Eko Hotel and within Victoria Island, with motorists advised to avoid the corridor or expect delays.

The statement added that officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority and other traffic enforcement personnel would be deployed to manage traffic and assist road users.

Recalled, the state government deployed 500 additional LASTMA officers for the event, which will have President Bola Tinubu in attendance.

Mr Osiyemi urged the public to cooperate with traffic officials and comply with all directives to ensure smooth vehicular movement during the events.

Punch/Adetutu Adetule

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Entertainment

Fela’s Wives Had Relationships with Other Men – Seun Kuti

By Web News 128

Spicy & Trendy

Nigerian singer Seun Kuti has alleged that his late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, did not forbid his wives from having affairs with other men.

Kuti also stated that this was one of Fela’s worst mistakes, claiming that some of the ladies eventually contracted HIV from their other lovers and passed it on to the late singer.

Speaking during a recent Instagram livestream, Kuti said, contrary to the speculations that Fela was the one who gave his women the disease, he was the victim.

He said, “Fela made many mistakes. One of the mistakes he made -one day, I saw a video of a lady online saying why are people praising Fela’s legacy despite him giving women HIV and dying of AIDS.

“I said, ‘Oh, Fela, you see yourself?’ If Fela was a traditional man, he would still be alive. I will tell you something about him that you might not have known: Fela’s women all had other men.

“Fela did not keep his women to himself. He believed that as he is free to sleep with all the women, the women are also free to meet other men. His law was that they shouldn’t bring the men to his house.

“My father doesn’t leave his house to sleep with other women outside, so it was his women who brought HIV home to him. Nobody is perfect. Everybody make mistakes. But Fela is a man that is on the side of humanity.”

Culled/Adetutu Adetule

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Legislature

Kebbi Assembly Speaker Dies in Egypt

By Web News 96

By Sani Dutsinma

The Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman Zuru, has died in an Egyptian hospital where he was undergoing medical treatment.

The Special Adviser to Governor on Media and Publicity, Mallam Yahaya Sarki, who confirmed this to Radio Nigeria in Birnin Kebbi, said that he died on Monday night.

The late speaker, who represented Zuru constituency, had been managing his health for some time and was a prominent figure in Kebbi State politics, serving as the Speaker of the State Assembly.

Prior to his death, he was in Egypt seeking medical attention for an undisclosed illness.

Edited by Olaolu Fawole

Human Angle

VIDEO: Café Employs People with Down Syndrome

By Web News 111

By Olaolu Fawole

In a quiet corner of Kopi Kamu, South Jakarta, Indonesia, a coffee shop is doing more than serving fresh brews

It is changing lives.

This unique café stands out for its inclusive workforce, employing young adults living with Down syndrome, giving them a chance to earn a living and build confidence.

From taking orders to serving customers with warm smiles, the workers are proving that ability goes far beyond limitations.

For many of the workers, the café is more than a workplace. It is a space of dignity, independence, and hope.

Crime

Police Arrest Man over Alleged Incest, Five Abortions

By Web News 265

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

A middle-aged man, Oluwadamilare Ewedemi, has been arrested by the police in Ijebu Ode area of Ogun State for allegedly sexually abusing and impregnating his daughter five times. 

The abuse was said to have begun in 2019, with the suspect allegedly procuring illegal abortion for each pregnancy.

The 21 years old victim (name withheld) reported her father to the Ifo division of the Ogun State Police Command.

According to her, she lost her mother when she was an infant and was placed in a motherless home in Ikeja, Lagos State, by her father, who later took her to Ijebu Ode in 2019 under the pretence of guardianship.

She alleged that her father began sexually abusing her in 2019 and continued the abuse for several years, leading to five pregnancies, which he aborted.

Speaking on the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi, who confirmed the suspect’s arrest, said the suspect would remain in custody and the case had been transferred to the Gender Desk for thorough investigation and prosecution as preliminary inquiries continued.

Religion

Lessons of Easter

By Web News 100

By Titilayo Kupoliyi

Christians all over the world on Friday began the celebration of Easter, also known as the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

It is a major celebration in Christendom for the remembrance of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, after the forty-day Lenten Season.

The celebration starts on Good Friday, as Christians solemnly observe the day with church services, fasting and sober reflection.

However, Easter Monday is observed as a day for rest, family gatherings and symbolic meeting with Jesus Christ at Galilee, also known as picnics.

It is, however, imperative for Christians to sustain the love for one another even after Easter.

Assisting Priest of Bishop Odutola Memorial Anglican Church, New Ife Road, Ibadan, The Reverend Michael Ayeni, said the Easter celebration is not only for merrymaking but signifies the return of Jesus Christ to all believers.

Reverend Ayeni noted that the Easter season brings new life for Christians, that even in death, there is hope in heaven.

“You can see that the people came, the believers and non-believers, the Christians, especially we gather together, we celebrate, we have what we call love feast”. “We let people know that, Oh, this Christ is love. Christ is love without a condition, unconditional love he gave us”.

Reverend Ayeni, however, called on Christians to be peaceful and love everyone unconditionally, irrespective of their religious affiliation, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

“God is so wonderful that he gave us his only begotten son, and that is why we are enjoying today”. “As Christians, I encourage us, despite the condition we find ourselves in the country today, we should love ourselves unconditionally. We should share love and fellowship”.

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