Politics

By Oriola Afolabi

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Biodun Oyebanji, winner of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State.

Announcing the result on Sunday, the Returning Officer for the election and Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Professor Adenike Oladiji, said Mr Oyebanji secured 319,224 votes to emerge victorious and earn a second term in office.

Professor Oladiji stated that the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Oluwole Oluyede, polled 40,543 votes, while the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr Dare Bejide, garnered 12,872 votes.

She explained that a total of 988,251 voters were registered for the election, while 384,940 voters were accredited across the 16 local government areas of the state.

According to the Returning Officer, 382,109 votes were cast, out of which 375,777 were valid votes and 6,332 were rejected ballots.

Professor Oladiji thereafter declared Mr Oyebanji duly elected Governor of Ekiti State in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

INEC has declared APC candidate Mr Biodun Oyebanji winner of the Ekiti governorship election, securing a second term in office.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

By Oriola Afolabi

The Nigeria Police have warned that anyone who announces the result of the Ekiti State governorship election without authorization from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, will be arrested and prosecuted.

Commissioner of Police in charge of Election Planning and Evaluation, Mr Abayomi Sogunle, gave the warning at a news briefing in Ado Ekiti.

Mr Sogunle said adequate security arrangements had been made to protect INEC permanent and ad hoc staff, members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, and other critical personnel involved in the election.

He explained that four security operatives would be deployed to each polling unit to maintain law and order throughout the exercise.

The Commissioner of Police assured political parties of a level playing field and reaffirmed the commitment of the police and other security agencies to neutrality during the poll.

He urged members of the public to report incidents of vote-buying and other electoral offences to security agencies.

On movement restrictions, Mr Sogunle said candidates sitting for the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination, SSCE, journalists and other accredited election stakeholders would be allowed to move freely without harassment.

He appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and religious leaders to continue supporting security agencies to ensure a peaceful election.

The Commissioner of Police also advised residents to call 08062335577 in the event of any emergency.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics
By Kazeem Ayodeji

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says it is fully prepared for the June 20 Ekiti State Governorship Election following the successful conduct of a mock accreditation and voting exercise in the state.

‎The exercise, held in selected polling units across twelve local government areas, was designed to test the functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, and other election-day procedures ahead of the governorship poll.

‎INEC ad-hoc staff who participated in the exercise reported a smooth process, noting that voter accreditation and voting took between one and two minutes in most polling units, with no major technical challenges recorded.

‎Speaking after monitoring the exercise in some polling units, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, describing it as a clear indication that the Commission is ready for the election.

‎Professor Amupitan explained that the mock exercise was part of INEC’s efforts to assess its operational readiness, particularly the effectiveness of technology to be deployed during the governorship election.

‎He added that the BVAS successfully detected individuals who attempted accreditation outside their designated polling units, a development he said would help prevent electoral fraud. 

The INEC Chairman also assured voters of adequate security on election day and urged all eligible residents to come out and vote on June 20.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

Politics

By Iyabo Adebisi

Allied People’s Movement (APM) has affirmed Mr. Bimbo Adekanmbi, as the party’s Oyo State Governorship candidate in the 2027 general election. 

The Oyo State APM Chairman, Adegbenro Fagbemi, made the announcement at the party’s governorship primary election exercise held at an event centre in Ibadan. 

In his acceptance speech, the consensus candidate, Mr. Adekanmbi said his candidature is a continuation of a movement that would restored hope and dignity to governance. 

Mr Adekanmbi while calling for a united front, urged all aspirants, candidates, and supporters to work together, campaign ,strategize, and ultimately govern for the benefit of the people.

In his remark, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, enjoined the governorship candidate not to inherit his enemies but rather chart his own path and improve on anything that could benefit people of Oyo State. 

Party’s candidates for Senatorial, House of Representatives, state Assembly were also announced and affirmed at the event. 

Radio Nigeria reports that the leadership of coalition party, PDP, INEC representation, lawmakers and political gladiators were in attendance at the APM party primary. 

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ogun State has selected its 2023 governorship candidate, Chief Ladi Adebutu, as the party’s flag bearer for the 2027 governorship election under a consensus arrangement.

Chief Adebutu emerged unopposed at the party’s governorship primary held in Abeokuta after delegates across the 236 wards of the state affirmed his candidature.

Chairman of the Governorship Primary Panel, Chief Afolabi Ariyo, declared him winner through a voice vote during the exercise attended by party leaders and stakeholders.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Ayodele Fayose, who attended the primary, expressed confidence in the PDP’s chances in the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State.

Mr Fayose said the outcome of the primary reflected renewed hope for the party, adding that Chief Adebutu’s political trajectory was now firmly directed towards becoming governor of Ogun State.

In his acceptance speech, Chief Adebutu appreciated party leaders, stakeholders and members for the unanimous support and described his emergence as historic.

He expressed confidence that the PDP would reclaim power in Ogun State, insisting that lessons had been learnt from the 2023 governorship election, which he claimed the party won but was denied.

Chief Adebutu also called for unity among party members, stressing that internal cohesion would be vital to defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

By Olawale Asake

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has completed the collation and presentation of the presidential primary election results from Oyo State, with 143,683 votes recorded across the 33 Local Government Areas of the state.

The results, contained in the official APC State Result Collation Form, were formally presented in Abuja by the Oyo State Coordinator and State Collation Officer for the exercise, Senator Teslim Folarin.

The result sheets were signed by Senator Folarin alongside the State Agents for President Bola Tinubu, Honorable Bolaji Afeez Repete and Honorable Sulaiman Bankole, affirming the authenticity and official completion of the collation process.

According to the figures presented by Senator Folarin, the APC presidential primary election was conducted peacefully and orderly across the state, reflecting the commitment, discipline and active participation of party members at the grassroots.

Speaking after presenting the results, the former Senate Leader said the collation process was transparent, fair and in strict compliance with the party’s guidelines, ensuring that votes from all the Local Government Areas were properly accounted for.

Senator Folarin commended party leaders, electoral officials and APC members across Oyo State for their cooperation, maturity and orderly conduct throughout the exercise, describing the process as a strong demonstration of internal democracy and unity within the party.

The presentation of the results in Abuja marked the formal completion of Oyo State’s contribution to the APC presidential primary election process as party stakeholders continue nationwide collation and preparations for future political activities.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Temidayo Adu

The Chairman of Ibadan-based private radio station, Solutions FM, Oloye Taofeek Adegoke, emerged as the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in Oyo State following the party’s primary election.

Oloye Adegoke won the ADC governorship primary conducted across the party’s wards in the state, defeating four other contestants in the exercise.

Announcing the results at the party’s state secretariat in Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan, Chairman of the Primary Committee, Mr Razak Salinsile, said Oloye Adegoke secured 16,051 votes to defeat his closest rival, Chief Bisi Ilaka, who polled 11,415 votes.

According to the results, Mr Gbemileke Alagbe scored 241 votes, while a former Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr Azeez Adeduntan, garnered 155 votes and Mr Niyi Aborisade, a lawyer, polled 67 votes.

In his acceptance speech, Oloye Adegoke described his emergence as a new chapter in the political history of Oyo State and appreciated party members and delegates for their confidence in him.

The ADC governorship candidate pledged that the party would fulfil its promises to residents of the state, assuring the people of improved development and enhanced security if elected governor of Oyo State.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has been cleared to contest in the presidential primary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election.

Chairman of the NDC National Screening Committee, Sam Egwu, announced Obi’s clearance in a video shared on the party’s official X account on Wednesday.

The screening exercise was conducted in Abuja on Tuesday.

Egwu said the committee was satisfied that Obi met all constitutional and statutory requirements to contest for the presidency.

“This is to certify that, following the screening of His Excellency Peter Obi by the National Screening Committee of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, and having satisfied ourselves that he has complied with all the requirements of the constitution of the party, the Electoral Act, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), dealing with eligibility to contest the presidential election, and having provided satisfactory answers to all questions put to him by members of the committee, he is hereby cleared to contest in the presidential primaries of the party for the 2027 presidential election on dates to be announced by the party,” Egwu stated.

Reacting via his official X account on Wednesday, Obi said the screening lasted more than two and a half hours, during which members of the committee examined his credentials and questioned him on his vision for Nigeria.

“Yesterday, May 19, in Abuja, I attended the presidential screening organised by our party, which took over two and a half hours. They carefully reviewed all my documents, including my degree certificates, NYSC credentials, and age declarations.

“During the process, I also addressed questions regarding my vision for a new Nigeria and the type of leadership our nation urgently needs right now.

“Following this, I was cleared and received the presidential nomination form I had previously paid for,” he said.

Obi also commended the screening committee and the party leadership for what he described as a credible and transparent process.

“I would like to commend the screening committee, led by former governor Sam Egwu, for their thorough and professional approach. Additionally, I appreciate our party’s leadership for upholding the democratic process,” he added.

The development comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with opposition parties intensifying consultations and preparations for party primaries and coalition talks.

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

Politics

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Five out of the Governorship Aspirants under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Oyo State, have called on the National Working Committee of the party to conduct a thorough review of the House of Representatives primary election conducted over the weekend.

The Aspirants, who include a Former Deputy Governor of the State, Mr Rauf Olaniyan, Mr Hakeem Alao, Prince Musbau Asanike, Mr Akeem Agbaje and Dr Usman Bakare, made the call at a news conference held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

Reading a communique on behalf of the aspirants, Mr Hakeem Alao lamented that the manner the party’s primaries have been conducted so far in the state was not in line with the APC’s constitution and the Electoral act.

Mr Alao urged the National Leadership of the party to urgently intervene and address all grievances arising from the exercise.

“The manner in which these primaries were conducted is antithetical to the spirit of the Electoral Act and the APC Constitution. These instruments enshrine fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all aspirants. Imposition and intimidation cannot substitute for democratic participation.”

Also speaking, the Former Deputy Governor, Mr Rauf Olaniyan maintained that the underlisted aspirants were not against consensus or any other arrangements, but all stakeholders and members should be carried along to ensure fairness.

“We affirm that we are not opposed to transparent consensus primary. On the contrary, consensus remains our preferred option because it provides the most credible path for the emergence of the best candidate. It is a mechanism that reflects the collective will of party members when properly conducted. Whatever Asiwaju Bola Tinubu says is binding as National leader. As loyal members of the APC, we hold that the voice of our leader and President is final in matters of party direction. Whoever he picks, after due consultation and consideration with leaders and stakeholders across the state, will be our resolve. We will abide by it without reservation.”

Mr Olaniyan appealed to President Bola Tinubu to direct the APC leadership in the state to uphold democratic principles and ensure a level playing ground for all aspirants.

“We urge Mr. President, as the national leader of our party, to compel the National leadership and the Oyo State APC leadership to conduct free, fair and credible primaries in line with his well-known democratic credentials.”

Mr Olaniyan added that the priority of the 5 aspirants was the overall success of the party in the state and reaffirmed their commitment to the APC and its ideals.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

Politics

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The All Progressives Congress, APC, Committee on National Assembly Primary Election In Oyo State has vowed to ensure fairness and credibility in the exercise.

The Chairman of the committee, who is a Former Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Professor Mojeed Alabi made the pledge at a news conference held at the State Party Secretariat, Oke Ado, Ibadan.

Professor Alabi said the committee would remain neutral throughout the exercise, promising that the outcome would reflect true democratic process that would be acceptable by all.

The Oyo State APC Primary Election Committee Chairman noted that, from the committee’s observation so far, the election ongoing at the various wards across the State has been devoid of rancor and violence.

Professor Alabi stressed that the mandate of the committee was solely to oversee the primary election for the screened and cleared House of Representatives and Senate aspirants in the State.

He said all complaints received during the exercise would be channelled to the Primary Election Appeal committee for the next appropriate actions.

According to Professor Alabi, 74 aspirants for the 14 House of Representatives seats and 5 aspirants for the 3 Senatorial Districts were cleared by the National leadership of the party for the primary election.

He added that after the election at the Wards level, the Committee would collate the results and transmit to the National Secretariat of the Party in Abuja where the final results would be announced.

Earlier, the APC Chairman in the State, Chief Moses Adeyemo expressed confidence in the Committee and promised to give necessary support that would guarantee a smooth exercise.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has formally presented Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Olamilekan Adeola, to stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ogun Central as the party’s consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 election.

Governor Abiodun made the presentation during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena.

The governor said the decision to support a candidate from Ogun West was aimed at promoting fairness, equity and political inclusion across the state’s three senatorial districts, noting that Ogun West had yet to produce a governor since the creation of Ogun State.

Prince Abiodun explained that the consensus arrangement followed wide consultations among party leaders and stakeholders and was later ratified at the APC state caucus meeting in Abeokuta, where Senator Adeola received unanimous endorsement.

The governor also announced the endorsement of the Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Shuaib Salisu, as the consensus candidate for Ogun Central ahead of the 2027 elections.

Governor Abiodun described the development as a reflection of unity and political maturity within the APC in Ogun State and urged party members to remain peaceful and committed as the party’s direct primary elections commence on Friday.

Senator Adeola appreciated party leaders and members for the confidence they had reposed in him and pledged not to disappoint the people, while promising to work for the continued success of the APC in Ogun State.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Iyabo Adebisi

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the leadership of the Peoples Democratic PDP and the Allied Peoples Movement have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. 

The alliance is expected to strengthen political collaboration between both parties and reshape emerging political calculations within Oyo State and the South-West region.

The M. O. U was signed by acting Secretary, PDP, Lagos State, Seyi Bamidele and national officer of APM, Ayodele Oyadeyi on behalf of the parties at an event held at the Peoples Democratic Party South West Secretariat,Old Ife Road, Ibadan.

Addressing their members, the National Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement, Dr Aliyu  Dantalle said APM was happy about the alliance, expressing the readiness of the party to make it work. 

The APM national chairman maintained that APM was the party for the people and devoid of crisis contrary to insinuations in some quarters.

Also speaking, the former Deputy National Chairman of PDP, South -West,and member of the party’s Board of Trustees, Chief Eddy Olafeso described the alliance as the reconsideration of the future of Nigeria. 

Dr Olafeso lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for the new unity among the two political parties,saying Nigerians must unite ahead of the next  general elections to elect credible leaders who could take Nigeria to greater heights. 

Present at the programme were Deputy Governor, Chief Bayo  Lawal, former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola of Osun State, PDP BoT Member, Chief Saka Balogun,former Secretary to the State Government, Osun state, Alhaji, Fatai Akinbade,Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, former Deputy Governor Amid Gbadamosi,  and governorship aspirant on the platform of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), Bimbo Adekanmbi,

Members of the two parties later proceeded to the ancient Mapo, for the unity rally. 

Edited by Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

Politics

By Amos Ogunrinde 

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Ekiti state has extended its training to security personnel ahead of the June 20 Governorship elections in the State.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi who declared the training open in Ado Ekiti, said this became necessary to prepare the officers for the election, promising that the commission would continue to form synergy with security agencies to ensure peaceful conduct of the poll.

On his part, the state commissioner of police, Mr Falade Micheal pledged that adequate security would be provided across the state during the election and sought the cooperation of all the stakeholders to make the exercise a violence free one.

In their remarks, the Director of Security, INEC Headquarters Abuja, Mrs Ndidi Okafor and the commissioner of police in charge of the Electoral body in Abuja, Mr Egbe Preye-Raymond urged security personnel to be deployed for Ekiti election to embrace professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

Some of the participants at the training included the Ekiti state police command’s spokesperson, Mr Sunday Abutu described the programme as a welcome development with a promise to put into practice the lessons learnt.

Radio Nigeria gathered that security personnel drawn from the Nigeria Police, Military, Department of State Services, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Fire Service, Nigerian Immigration Service and Nigerian Customs Service attended the training.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Mojisola Oladele

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has retierated its commitment towards conducting credible, free, inclusive and transparent elections, come 15th August governorship election poll.

‎Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, gave the assurance while addressing newsmen in her office, at the Commission headquarters in Osogbo.

‎Mrs Babalola who noted that without the media the society cannot be informed, tasked the media to correct anomalies as regards misinformation and disinformation about election matters.


Mrs Babalola gave assurance that the commission will work with the media community to ensure a credible, free, inclusive, transparent, and fair governorship election.

‎The State INEC REC maintained that the media is an advocate of peaceful coexistence and tolerance in society, adding that INEC will do its part in dissemination of information to the public.

‎She added that the commission would continue to ensure regular training and re-training of its ad-hoc staff for optimal performance.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Isaac Afolabi

Vice President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated the Onyearugbulem–Shagari Flyover Bridge in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

At the inauguration, Senator Shettima commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for infrastructure development projects aimed at boosting business activities and easing transportation along the corridor.

He said the federal government was committed at easing the transportation challenges in Nigeria by the construction of numerous highways across the country including the Benin-Akure- Ilesha highway and the Lagos -Calabar coastal highway.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa appreciated President Bola Tinubu for laying a solid foundation for the transformation of the nation’s economy, which he said enabled states to execute impactful projects.

The governor urged the people of Ondo State to make proper use of the projects and support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Mosope Kehinde

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Oyo State will resume the third phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise on Monday next week.

The exercise, which aligns with the Commission’s approved 2026 timetable, is scheduled to run until Friday, July 10, 2026.

It will include both online pre-registration and physical registration across the state.

In a statement signed by the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Oyo State, Professor Adeniran Tella, the third phase will also feature the rotational deployment of INEC Voter Enrolment Device (IVED) machines across all 351 registration areas from May 11 to July 3, 2026.

Professor Tella explained that the CVR exercise and the movement of IVED machines will take place daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., excluding weekends and public holidays.

He urged all eligible citizens to take advantage of the final phase of the exercise, noting that it provides an opportunity for new registrants to enrol, as well as for existing voters to transfer their registration or change their polling units from one place to another.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Amos Ogunrinde

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has urged youths in Ekiti State to shun electoral violence, thuggery, misinformation, and vote trading ahead of the June 20 governorship election.

Speaking during an engagement with youth groups in Ado-Ekiti, Deputy Director of Inclusivity in INEC’s Gender Inclusivity Department, Habibat Abdulkareem Jato, highlighted the pivotal role young people play in determining electoral outcomes due to their numerical strength.

Mrs Abdulkareem-Jato called on youths to prioritise civic responsibility and peaceful conduct, stressing the importance of verifying information before sharing it.

She said, “My message is simple: vote, not violence. Youths should be objective in the messages they share about the election. They must act responsibly and take advantage of their demographic strength, as they represent the largest segment of the population.”

She added that young people must channel their influence towards promoting democratic values and active participation in the electoral process.

Mrs Abdulkareem-Jato also assured stakeholders of INEC’s readiness for the election, noting that the engagement forms part of efforts to ensure a smooth and credible poll.

She warned that youths often suffer the most consequences when involved in electoral violence.

Earlier, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ekiti State, Bunmi Omoseyindemi, described youths as critical stakeholders in the democratic process.

He noted that beyond voting, young people shape public opinion and can promote peaceful participation while safeguarding electoral integrity.

Dr Omoseyindemi said the engagement was designed to inform participants about electoral processes and address their concerns to ensure a credible, inclusive, and peaceful election.

“We have observed in previous electoral cycles the recruitment of youths for political thuggery and disruption of polling processes, particularly in flashpoint areas and during result collation,” he said.

He also warned against the spread of misinformation and fake news capable of inciting panic and voter apathy.

“As we approach the governorship election, I urge all youth groups to demonstrate leadership by rejecting violence, misinformation, vote trading, and any form of electoral malpractice,” he added.

Also speaking, Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Ekiti State, Oluwakemi Akomolede, called on youths to act responsibly in safeguarding the integrity of the election.

Mrs Akomolede disclosed that over 65 per cent of registered voters in Ekiti are under the age of 45, describing them as a decisive force capable of shaping the outcome of the poll.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Amos Ogunrinde

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Ekiti state says it will work with the anti graft agencies, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, as well as other security agencies to check vote trading during the June 20 Governorship election in the state.

The Ekiti state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi who made this known at a news conference in Ado Ekiti, vowed that anyone caught engaging in vote buying would be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.

Dr Omoseyindemi appealed to all registered voters to obtain their permanent Voter’s cards when the distribution begins, saying that only those with PVCs would be allowed to exercise their franchise during the election.

He announced that recruitment of adhoc staff for the election had commenced while the training would start immediately after the recruitment process.

This is to ensure that all personnel are adequately equipped with knowledge of electoral procedures, including the use of BVAS and result management protocols,” he said.

The REC stated that the commission had embarked on aggressive voter education to ensure improved participation of voters in the election while people with disabilities would be given priority during the exercise.

He however cautioned candidates and supporters of various political parties to shun the campaign of calumny while journlists should shun fake news and other acts that could jeopardize the peaceful conduct of the election.

Dr Omoseyindemi said the commission had made significant progress in its preparations in line with its election timetable and schedule of activities.

The Commission has made substantial progress in its preparations, guided by our strategic election timetable and schedule of activities. We remain committed to conducting a free, fair, credible, inclusive, and transparent election in Ekiti State,” he said.

The commission will deploy the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System for voter accreditation and authentication. Election results will be transmitted electronically to the INEC Result Viewing Portal, IReV, to enhance transparency,” he added.

Dr Omoseyindemi urged eligible voters to turn out peacefully on election day and perform their civic responsibility.

According to him, thirteen political parties are fielding candidates for the governorship election.

Dr Omoseyindemi therefore reiterated the determination of the electoral body towards conducting credible election with the support of the security agencies and other stakeholders.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates

Politics

By Mosope Kehinde

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, has reaffirmed his loyalty to Governor Seyi Makinde following the Supreme Court judgment on the internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a statement, Mr Ogundoyin described the ruling as a turning point that validates the governor’s position during one of the party’s most turbulent periods.

He noted that the decision goes beyond a legal conclusion, reflecting recognition for leaders who remained steadfast amid pressure and internal divisions.

Reflecting on the crisis, the Speaker said Governor Makinde’s people-centred approach distinguished him from his peers.

Mr Ogundoyin also likened the governor’s leadership style to the democratic traditions associated with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, and Chief Bola Ige, noting that his governance approach has secured him a place in Oyo State’s political history.

He pledged continued support for the administration, assuring that the political structure built under Governor Makinde would be sustained and further strengthened.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The apex leadership of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) in Oyo State has endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party’s consensus candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election, signaling a major step toward early political alignment within the party.

The endorsement was ratified during a high-level leadership summit held in Samonda, Ibadan, where prominent party stakeholders across the state converged to deliberate on the party’s future and electoral strategy ahead of the next general elections.

Speaking at the gathering, Senator (Chief) Hamzat Ayo Adeseun explained that the meeting was convened primarily to affirm Senator Alli’s candidacy and build consensus among party leaders.
According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations and was further strengthened by the position of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Adeseun revealed that he had previously met with the President in Abuja, where Tinubu reportedly provided strong justification for backing Alli as the party’s standard-bearer in Oyo State. He emphasized that, as the national leader of the APC, the President’s preference carries significant weight and should be respected by party members.

“Mr. President remains the leader of our party, and his opinion on who flies the party’s flag must be given due consideration,” Adeseun stated, noting that Alli had already declared his intention to contest the governorship seat prior to the endorsement.

In a similar vein, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle, Director of the South West Development Commission, reaffirmed the position of the party leadership. He said that he also held discussions with President Tinubu, who, according to him, endorsed Alli as the preferred candidate for the 2027 election in Oyo State.

Ibikunle called on other aspirants within the APC to align with the consensus’ decision in the interest of party unity and electoral success. He stressed that internal cohesion would be critical for the APC to mount a formidable challenge in the forthcoming governorship race.

The summit witnessed a large turnout of party leaders, stakeholders, and representatives from all geopolitical zones of Oyo State, underscoring the significance of the endorsement.

In his appreciation, Senator Alli thanked the leaders and other members of the party, for the show of support and however promised that he shall not hesitate to give governance of inclusiveness

With this development, the APC in Oyo State appears to be consolidating its ranks early, positioning Senator Alli as the focal point of its 2027 governorship ambition while aiming to avoid internal divisions that have affected past electoral outcomes.

Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

The Supreme Court on Thursday invalidated the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025, in a major setback for a faction of the opposition party led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, SAN.

In a split decision delivered by a five-member panel of the apex court, three justices held that the appeal filed by the Turaki-led faction lacked merit and affirmed the concurrent findings of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal against the conduct of the convention.

Justice Stephen Adah, who delivered the lead judgment in appeal number SC/CV/164/2026, held that the appellants violated a subsisting order of the Federal High Court restraining them from proceeding with the planned convention.

The apex court consequently dismissed both the appeal and cross-appeals and ordered parties to bear their respective costs.

The court held that disobedience of the court order was not disputed.

The apex court further agreed with the findings of the lower courts that the PDP faction abused court processes by allegedly obtaining a counter-order from a court of coordinate jurisdiction in Ibadan after an earlier restraining order had been issued by the Federal High Court.

Justice Adah stated that the lower courts were right in relying on Sections 221, 222 and 229 of the 1999 Constitution to hold that political parties must comply strictly with constitutional provisions, electoral regulations and valid court orders in the conduct of conventions and internal party affairs.

The appeal challenged the March 9 judgment of the Court of Appeal, which upheld the earlier decision of the Federal High Court nullifying the convention and restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognising its outcome.

The apex court had reserved judgment in the matter after hearing arguments on April 22.

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

Politics

By Iyabo Adebisi

Ahead of 2027 elections, former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress, ADC, Chieftain, Mr Peter Obi, on Tuesday, in Ibadan, met with Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde for further discussions on coalition of opposition parties.

Addressing journalists at the end of the meeting held at the courtesy room of the Governor’s office, Agodi Ibadan, Mr Obi said the coalition of opposition political parties, would produce a better, more united, secured and progressive Nigeria.

Recalled that notable opposition political party leaders last weekend in Ibadan held a summit where they agreed to field one presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

Among the political leaders at the summit were former vice president, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku; former Kano state governor, Mr Rabiu Kwankwaso; Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, Mr Jerry Gana and Alhaji Babangida Aliyu.

Others include Mr Kabiru Turaki, Mr Rafiu Aregbesola; Sen.David Mark; Mr Pat Utomi, and and Mr Peter Obi.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

By Abimbola Bamgbose

All Progressives Congress APC, leaders and stakeholders from Ogun East Senatorial District have unanimously nominated the state governor Prince Dapo Abiodun as the candidate for senate in 2027.

The APC leaders made this known in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne local government, while presenting the governor with a letter of nomination.

Presenting the endorsement letter, APC leaders including Chief Adeleke Adedoyin, Chief Kola Ogunjobi, Chief Segun Osibote, and Senator Lekan Mustapha commended the governor’s leadership style, describing his performance as outstanding and people-oriented.

They urged intensified mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections and called for unity within the party, expressing confidence that the endorsement reflects the collective will of the people of Ogun East.

In his acceptance speech, the governor gave assurance that he would not be a passive legislature but one committed to delivering meaningful results to the people of the Ogun East and the state at large.

He appreciated party leaders and stakeholders for the trust reposed in him, promising not to let them down.

Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun however declared that the All Progressives Congress, APC, is prepared to produce Senator Olamilekan Adeola as the next governor of the state.

Reflecting on his administration, Governor Abiodun noted that Ogun State had recorded significant transformation in the past seven years, particularly in infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, education, and road reconstruction.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.

Politics

By Mojisola Oladele

Delegates at the Action Peoples Party, APP, state congress in Osogbo have elected Mr Titus Odesola as Osun State Chairman and Mr Olasupo Olarewaju as Osun State Secretary through a consensus approach.

The congress also produced a new set of executives via a consensus-based electoral process.

In a statement, the new Osun State Chairman, Mr Odesola Titus, confirmed that the congress adopted consensus as the mode of election, with stakeholders endorsing nominees across various positions.

The congress also named Mr Surajudeen Tanimola as State Publicity Secretary, Mr Akintayo Israel Oluwatobi as State Youth Leader, and Mr Raji Jimoh Oladipupo as State Auditor, among other key executives.

At the local government level, the congress also chose chairmen and chairpersons.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more updates.