The Anambra State Government has again sealed shops belonging to traders in markets around Onitsha and its environs for failing to open on Monday. THENEWSCREDIT gathered that most of the sealed shops were at the Building Materials Market, Ogidi, where traders did not open for business on Monday. The state government, however, commended many traders who came to the market that day, especially those at the Electrical Parts Dealers Market, Obosi. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Evarist Uba, undertook a routine monitoring exercise to assess the level of compliance with the state government’s directive for markets to open on Mondays. During the tour, Uba reported that a substantial number of shops at the Electrical Parts Dealers Market, Obosi, were open for business on Monday, marking a notable departure from the prolonged weekly lockdowns that have stifled economic activities across the state. He said, “The Obosi Electrical Parts Market is a key hub for electrical components in the Southeast, and I’m happy to see a significant level of activity. “The government is intentionally building a state that embraces productivity. The government of Anambra State, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, is highly impressed by the courage and patriotism displayed by the electrical parts dealers in Obosi, as 80 percent of the market is open. “Their decision to open their shops is a clear testament to their faith in the government’s efforts to restore peace and their commitment to the economic prosperity of the state.” At the Building Materials Market, Ogidi, some shops that were under lock and key were sealed by the state government. The Special Adviser commended those who complied and warned that the sealed shops would remain closed for two weeks. Leaders of the markets who spoke during the tour expressed their support for the government’s stance. The Chairman of the Electrical Parts Dealers Association, Obosi, Chike Onunkwo, and Chief Jude Nwankwo, President of the International Building Materials Market, Ogidi, praised the enhanced security provided by the state. They pointed out that the government has shown commitment and, as such, traders must play their part in rebuilding the state economy. The monitoring committee comprised the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Ben Chiobi (rtd); and the Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Aburime. The team also visited other major markets in Nnewi and Onitsha, among others, to monitor compliance with the government’s directive

ANAMBRA - in a significant political development within the student movement, the South-East chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections. The student body announced its intention to personally fund the purchase of the President’s “Expression of Interest” form and vowed to mobilize a massive 20,000-man youth rally to support his endorsement. The declaration was made on Monday during a high-profile meeting at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam campus. Speaking under the theme “Discovering Purpose and Working in Ordination 2026,” the NANS South-East Coordinator, Comrade Okoye Okpala, described the President as a "genuine progressive" whose policies have directly rescued the academic careers of thousands. Central to the endorsement is the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which Okpala hailed as a transformative intervention. He noted that the zero-interest loan scheme has transitioned from a campaign promise to a tangible reality, with over ₦183 billion reportedly disbursed to nearly one million students. "For years, brilliant Nigerians abandoned their dreams due to financial lack," Okpala stated. "The current administration has restored dignity and hope to families. This is inclusive leadership that proves students are not an afterthought in governance." The NANS leader also used the platform to contrast President Tinubu’s policies with those of the opposition. Specifically referencing past statements attributed to former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi regarding the loan scheme, Okpala raised concerns about the future of current beneficiaries under a different administration. "As defenders of student interests, we must ask: what happens to those relying on this support if these policies are dismantled?" he queried. "We stand with policies that keep us in school and reduce the financial burden on our parents." Ending his address, Okpala emphasized that the support from the South-East zone is not rooted in ethnic or partisan sentiment but is a data-driven response to "measurable impact." By choosing to back Tinubu three years into his first term, the South-East NANS chapter has signaled a proactive stance in the 2027 conversation, prioritizing educational stability and the expansion of the student loan registry over traditional political affiliations.

The National Assembly announced on Sunday that it would reconvene its plenary session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, cutting short its recess amid indications that lawmakers may review the date set for the 2027 presidential election. Findings by our correspondent showed that the National Assembly may shift the presidential poll to February 13, 2027. In a notice signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, senators and members of the House of Representatives were directed to resume sitting at 11 am and adjust their schedules accordingly, as “very crucial decisions” are expected to be taken during the session. “I am directed to inform all Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the National Assembly that the Senate and House of Representatives shall reconvene plenary session at 11:00 am on Tuesday, 17th February 2026, respectively,” the notice read. “Consequently, all Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members are kindly requested to take note and reschedule their engagements accordingly to enable them attend the session, as very crucial decisions shall be taken by each Chamber during the session,” Ogunlana added. However, sources within the National Assembly, speaking to The PUNCH on condition of anonymity, revealed that the public notice masks a more pressing agenda. “It is more of an extraordinary plenary session to review the 2027 presidential election date as stipulated in the Electoral Act amendment. That is why our recess has been cut short through the announcement made by the Clerk of the National Assembly,” a senator confided. “The ultimate aim is to give legislative backing to INEC’s request to address the concerns raised regarding the 2027 election slated to hold during Ramadan,” the lawmaker added. Another Senate insider told The PUNCH: “If all goes according to plan, the presidential poll date may be brought forward to February 13 from the previously announced February 20 by INEC.” Similarly, a Senate source told THENEWSCREDIT: “This session is crucial. It is about more than dates—it is about ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of faith, has a fair opportunity to participate in the electoral process. The decisions we take here could define the credibility of the 2027 elections.” The development comes barely a week after the Senate, bowing to public pressure, approved the electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal, while retaining manual collation as a backup in areas where technology may fail. The emergency reconsideration arose from a disputed clause in the Electoral Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Amendment Bill, 2026, which had triggered days of nationwide protests and intense criticism from opposition figures, civil society groups, and youth movements. Despite approving the electronic transmission system, the Senate stopped short of making it compulsory and rejected calls for real-time uploads of results—a key demand of protesters who had accused lawmakers of undermining electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Under the revised provision, presiding officers at polling units must electronically transmit results to the IReV portal after voting concludes and documentation is completed. Where electronic transmission is not possible due to network challenges, the manual result sheet, Form EC8A, will serve as the primary basis for collation and declaration. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while putting the motion to a voice vote, urged senators who opposed the amendment to formally challenge it on the floor. With plenary set to resume, lawmakers are expected to continue deliberations on pending bills, committee reports, and other legislative matters, including further work on the Electoral Act amendment and related reforms ahead of the 2027 polls. Meanwhile, the Joint National Assembly Conference Committee, constituted to reconcile differences in the Electoral Amendment Bill passed separately by the Senate and the House of Representatives, is expected to meet on Monday. The harmonised bill will subsequently be transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent. THENEWSCREDIT learned that the joint panel, comprising members from both chambers, has been given a one-week window to resolve contentious provisions in the bill. Earlier, THENEWSCREDIT reported that INEC acknowledged public concerns over the timing of the 2027 general elections, which coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting and spiritual reflection for millions of Nigerian Muslims. The commission indicated that it may seek legislative intervention if necessary. The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed the development in a statement last Friday, clarifying that the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 elections were developed in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC’s Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, 2022. According to the statement, INEC had initially slated Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections. However, Muslim Rights Concern and other Islamic stakeholders rejected the proposed timetable, arguing that it clashes with the Ramadan fasting period, which they consider insensitive to Muslim voters, election officials, and observers. Former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, was among the notable voices calling for reconsideration. On his official X (formerly Twitter) handle last Friday, Atiku said the February 20 date falls “squarely within the Ramadan period (February 7 – March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.” Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential aide, also urged INEC via his X account to reconsider the dates. He wrote, “If the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, scheduling such a critical national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population. Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations. “Given the significant Muslim population in this country, it may be worthwhile to reconsider the timing to ensure broader participation and convenience for all citizens. I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.” Reacting, INEC acknowledged the concerns, assuring the public that it remains sensitive to legitimate considerations that may affect electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections. “Notwithstanding the foregoing, the commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances. “The commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections. “In view of these representations, the commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements,” the statement read. The latest move by the National Assembly builds on prior proposals to adjust the timing of the 2027 elections. In October last year, lawmakers suggested holding the polls in November 2026, roughly six months ahead of the usual schedule, to ensure that all election petitions would be concluded before the May 29, 2027, handover date. The draft amendment, unveiled during a public hearing organised by the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters in Abuja, read: “Elections into the office of the President and Governor of a State shall be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office.” Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Adebayo Balogun, explained that the move was designed to “ensure that all manner of election litigations are dispensed with before the swearing in of winners.” The National Assembly also proposed amending sections 285 and 139 of the 1999 Constitution to shorten timelines for election petitions, reducing tribunal judgments from 180 to 90 days, appellate court decisions from 90 to 60 days, and ensuring that the entire judicial process does not exceed 185 days. Other key proposals included early voting for security personnel, INEC staff, accredited journalists, and observers at least 14 days before election day. Stakeholders, including INEC, represented by Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, supported the reforms, particularly the push for electronic voting and compulsory e-transmission of results, describing them as critical to enhancing credibility and reducing post-election disputes. Political Implications The decision to reconvene the National Assembly ahead of schedule comes amid a politically charged atmosphere, with opposition parties, civil society organisations, and Muslim advocacy groups pressing for adjustments to ensure inclusivity and fairness in the electoral process. In July last year, mixed reactions trailed a proposal to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow all elections in Nigeria to be conducted on the same day in 2027. While leading opposition parties—the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, African Democratic Congress, and New Nigeria People’s Party—supported the initiative, the ruling All Progressives Congress rejected it, warning of dire consequences. The proposal, championed by the House Committee on Constitution Review under Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, emerged from broad consultations across the six geopolitical zones. As the National Assembly prepares to reconvene, political analysts predict that Tuesday’s plenary could set the tone for the 2027 elections, with the potential rescheduling of the presidential poll to February 13 marking a historic adjustment driven by religious and public considerations. Observers note that the move, if implemented, could enhance voter participation among Muslims while also testing INEC’s capacity to deliver credible elections under a compressed timeline. Lawmakers meet on Electoral Act harmonisation Meanwhile, the Joint National Assembly Conference Committee is expected to meet on Monday (today) to harmonise the Senate and House versions of the Electoral Amendment Bill. Once reconciled, the bill will be sent to President Bola Tinubu for assent, potentially paving the way for a legal framework that accommodates both the timing of elections and the use of electronic transmission. The outcome of these deliberations will be closely watched by political parties, religious groups, and civil society organisations, as the 2027 elections are shaping up to be a litmus test for Nigeria’s electoral system and its ability to reconcile legal, religious, and technological considerations. Senate cites power, Internet for ‘real-time’ exclusion On Sunday, the Senate defended its decision to exclude the “real-time” clause from the Electoral Act amendment, citing poor internet and power infrastructure. Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele explained that Clause 60(3), requiring presiding officers to transmit polling unit results to IReV in real-time, was reviewed to avoid unnecessary crises. Citing Nigerian Communications Commission data, he said broadband coverage in 2025 was 70 per cent, with internet penetration at 44.53 per cent, and Nigeria ranked 129th out of 150 countries in fixed broadband speed at 33.32 Mbps—far below global standards. “By global standards, the real-time electronic transmission of election results may not be practicable at this stage of our development. To avoid a situation that compounds our country’s woes, it is better that we make it discretionary since Section 62(2) of the Electoral Act, 2022 has already established the National Electronic Register of Election Results,” Bamidele said. On power supply, he cited official figures showing 85 million Nigerians—about 43 per cent—still lack access to grid electricity. “Even though our generation capacity hovers roughly between 12,000 and 13,500 megawatts, our distribution and transmission capacity is acutely limited. As we all know, it can only deliver 4,500 megawatts to households nationwide. But with the Electricity Act, 2025, our power sector will record significant growth from this financial year,” he added. Bamidele said lawmaking must be based on facts, not emotion. “All these facts were before us for consideration before we initially decided to retain Section 60(3 & 5) of the Electoral Act, 2022, in the interest of the people and security. The data speak directly to the stark realities of our federation and not emotion or sentiment.” Describing lawmaking as the “lifeblood” of public institutions, he argued that laws disconnected from practical realities risk instability. “The term ‘real time’ was removed to ensure Nigeria’s electoral framework remains workable given current infrastructural and technological limitations, while still addressing citizens’ concerns across the country,” he further argued.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has drawn intense criticism following a now-viral video in which he spoke about delivering victory for the All Progressives Congress in the Federal Capital Territory Council Election, amid worsening insecurity in parts of his state. In the trending clip from a recent political gathering, AbdulRazaq, while addressing party members, declared his commitment to securing electoral success for the ruling party in Abuja. “On behalf of the excellencies and many other esteemed colleagues on the committee, I assure Mr President and our party leaders that we will work as a team with local stakeholders and community influencers to deliver FCT to the All Progressives Congress. “I’m confident that the good people of the Federal Capital Territory across the six council areas will come out to align with our party and show truly that APC is not just the party of now but also the reliable vessel to Nigeria’s progress and sustainable future,” AbdulRasaq said. The governor’s remarks have since triggered heated reactions on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the timing and priorities of the statement as Kwara continues to confront deadly attacks, abductions, and growing fears across rural communities. The backlash comes amid heightened tension in the state following the circulation of a disturbing video by suspected terrorists, allegedly showing some victims from the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area. Reacting to the footage on Saturday, the Kwara State Government, in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said authorities were working with security agencies and local stakeholders to analyse the video and establish the identities of those shown. “The Kwara State Government is deeply concerned over the disturbing video released by terrorists earlier today, allegedly showing some persons taken during the tragic February 3 attack on Woro community. “Government officials and security agencies are carefully analysing the video to establish the identities of the individuals shown.” The government noted that conflicting accounts regarding the number of abducted persons had complicated official confirmation. “Since the incident, there have been varying accounts regarding the number of persons abducted. For this reason, neither the State Government nor security agencies have announced a definitive figure. “Our priority remains the safe rescue of every affected citizen and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.” Despite the official response, the governor’s FCT comment has continued to generate controversy online, with critics arguing that the statement appeared disconnected from the security challenges confronting Kwara communities. A barrage of reactions followed on X, where several users openly condemned the governor’s remarks. OurFaveOnlineDoc (@OurFavOnlineDoc) wrote,”My job to Tinubu is to deliver FCT for APC. Not to deliver Kwara people from terrorism, not to deliver good governance, not to care for families of the murdered — the only thing in this governor’s head is votes.” Everything Politics (@Everypolitics1) stated, “The oath of office is to serve the people of Kwara and not to deliver the FCT for any political party. Governance is about security, development and accountability, not electoral strategy.” Tochi (Nfunaala) (@TochiPN) added, “His job is not to protect his state from terrorists but to win FCT. Premium clownery.” Another user, Teablack75 (@teablack75), wrote, “The reason I fear for Nigerians is that these leaders boldly tell us they don’t care. You will never hear ‘my job is to deliver good governance to my people.’” Sundayikale (@sundayikale) commented, “Deliver FCT when Kwara is bleeding? A governor that doesn’t care about his people but politics.” Similarly, Alexo224 (@AlexEZIREALI43) said, “Your own people are being killed, kidnapped, and displaced, yet you’re talking about delivery jobs for elections.” Adékúnlé Odérìndé (@AdekunleOderind) also criticised the governor, writing, “A governor that cannot deliver security to his people wants to deliver votes elsewhere. Jokers in seats of power.” The criticism reflects growing frustration among citizens following repeated reports of violent attacks and threats across communities in Kwara State. Recent security briefings have highlighted incidents involving suspected terrorists, including killings, abductions, and the circulation of threatening letters allegedly warning of impending assaults. Residents of some affected areas have reportedly fled their homes over fears of further violence, while authorities continue security operations. Our correspondents gathered that residents of Ira, Inaja and Aho had started leaving their homes over the threat letters by the suspected terrorists. A traditional chief in Ira, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, said the letter was dropped at a motorcycle park near the central mosque.

The traditional landscape of Oyo town underwent a historic transformation on Friday as Governor Seyi Makinde officially elevated 14 High Chiefs and Baales to the status of crown-wearing Obas. The coronation, held at the Olivet Heights premises in Oyo West Local Government Area, saw the presentation of Staffs of Office and Instruments of Office to the new monarchs. Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, representing Governor Makinde, performed the rites during a ceremony characterized by cultural splendor and high-level political attendance. The 14 newly minted monarchs include: Oba David Oyediran (Alaaguo of Aguoland) Oba Afonja Mukaila (Baba Eyaji of Oyo) Oba Samuel Odurinde (Alajagba of Oyo) Oba Isiaka Tella-Titiloye (Ona-Isokun of Oyo) Oba Lamidi Jimoh (Iba Samu of Oyo Empire) Oba Ganiyu Busari (Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja Land) Other elevated monarchs represent the domains of Imileke, Gbudugbu, Ojongbodu, Apa-Ara, Idodeland, Agbaaki, Akeitan, and Iseke. In a speech delivered by his deputy, Governor Makinde emphasized that the move was designed to "strengthen traditional institutions" and facilitate grassroots development. He urged the new Obas to lead with "integrity, fairness, and inclusiveness," acting as partners in the state`s progress. Despite the festive atmosphere, the ceremony was shrouded in significant legal controversy. Central to the dispute is the elevation of Alhaji Ganiyu Busari to the stool of Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja Land. The late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, had previously initiated legal action to stop the recognition of this specific stool. Documents reveal that a motion on notice was filed at the Supreme Court of Nigeria on January 30, 2026 (Appeal No. SC/404/2018), seeking an urgent injunction to restrain the Governor and Attorney-General from: Creating or recognizing the chieftaincy stool of Baale Ago-Oja. Installing or crowning Ganiyu Busari as an Oba. Upholding the Oyo State Gazette of January 2025 which sanctioned the elevation. The Alaafin’s legal representatives argued that reviving a stool previously declared non-existent by competent courts constitutes a "disregard of subsisting judgments" and could prejudice the pending appeal. Addressing the gathering, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, defended the exercise as a "renewal of Oyo’s rich heritage." He noted that the beaded crown remains a sacred symbol of authority and divine responsibility within the Yoruba tradition, one of Africa’s oldest governance structures. The event drew prominent figures, including representatives of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, and various political leaders, marking a pivotal—if contested—chapter in the state`s traditional history.

IRESA-ADU – Frustrated by a multi-year deadlock and alleged government indifference, the Iresa-Adu community in Surulere Local Government Area has taken matters into its own hands, installing a traditional ruler to fill a leadership vacuum they claim is fueling insecurity and land encroachment. The community’s move follows years of unsuccessful appeals to Governor Seyi Makinde to approve the selection process for the substantive Oba Aresa of Iresa-Adu, the area’s paramount stool which has remained vacant for nearly eight years. Despite hosting the Surulere Local Government Secretariat and maintaining a prominent historical status in Oyo State, residents say the town has been sidelined. Community leaders highlighted that while the Governor visited for campaign tours in 2019 and 2023, formal petitions and delegations to the State Secretariat in Ibadan have yielded no results. The vacuum has reportedly led to dire consequences. Local sources point to: Recent arrests of cattle rustlers by the Oyo State Police Command have heightened fears that the lack of a central traditional authority is weakening local security coordination. Territorial Disputes: Border communities adjacent to Osun and Kwara states are reportedly facing increased land encroachment and violence. Prominent high chiefs, including the Iyalode and Balogun of Aresa-Adu, have passed away while waiting for the stool to be filled. The "Aregba" Installation In a direct response to these crises, the community recently installed Oba Adeleke Isaiah Olayiwola Oninuola I as the Aregba of Iregba, a strategic town within the Iresa-Adu territory plagued by boundary tensions. “We had to take action because we are losing lives to insecurity and disputes,” stated Prince Olaleye, a community elder. “We have made numerous appeals to the government on the Aresa-Adu stool without resolution.” Allegations of Selective Intervention The community’s frustration is further compounded by what they perceive as selective intervention by the state government. Indigenes noted that Governor Makinde has successfully intervened in other high-profile traditional disputes—such as those involving the Soun of Ogbomoso, Aseyin of Iseyin, and Alaafin of Oyo—even amidst legal battles. Meanwhile,The Local Government Chairman Hon. Isaiah Adegbite has been engaged on the matter, he reportedly maintained that no further progress can be made without the Governor’s express approval. As of the time of this report, the Oyo State Government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the unauthorized installation or the allegations of neglect.

IRESA-ADU — Following nearly eight years of frustration and alleged neglect by the Oyo State government, the Iresa-Adu community in Surulere Local Government Area has taken matters into its own hands, installing a new traditional ruler to fill a key vacant stool in the area. The community, which hosts the Surulere Local Government Secretariat, has for years petitioned Governor Seyi Makinde to grant formal approval for the substantive Oba Aresa of Iresa-Adu, a premier traditional position that has remained vacant since 2018. The decision to install Oba Adeleke Isaiah Olayiwola Oninuola I as the Aregba of Iregba, a critical territory under the Iresa-Adu domain, stems from a dire need to curb escalating insecurity, land encroachment, and boundary disputes, community leaders stated. A Community "Fed Up" Speaking on the development, a community elder, Prince Olaleye, highlighted the unbearable consequences of the prolonged vacancy. “We had to take action because we are losing lives to insecurity and disputes, and we are losing our lands to encroachers," he said. "Governor Makinde has failed to act despite our repeated appeals”. According to reports, the community has utilized various channels—letters, delegations, and visits to the State Secretariat—to secure the Governor`s approval, with little to no result. Residents noted that while the governor moved swiftly to intervene in high-profile, contested stools like the Alaafin, Soun, and Aseyin, the Iresa-Adu matter has been ignored for nearly eight years. Another community source remarked that the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Isaiah Adegbite, had expressed exhaustion, admitting that without the Governor’s direct intervention, there was little he could do. Insecurity and Demographic Pressure The urgency behind the self-installation is tied to the geographical location of Iresa-Adu, which borders both Osun and Kwara states. The absence of a recognized paramount ruler has made the area porous to cattle rustlers and land-grabbers, local sources argued. "We cannot sit back while lives, properties, and livelihoods continue to be threatened," a community elder stated, noting that the community has, in fact, taken steps to fill other vacant Baales (subordinate chiefs) on border lands to bolster security. A History of Broken Promises? Residents expressed disappointment that despite hosting Governor Makinde during his 2019 and 2023 campaign tours, the administration has not addressed their plight. Community leaders alleged that they were often told by the state government that it would "do the needful," but such promises never materialized into action. The crisis has taken a toll on the community`s leadership structure, with reports indicating that the Iyalode and Balogun of Aresa-Adu passed away while waiting for the stool to be filled. As of the time of this report, the Oyo State Government has not officially responded to the community’s action or the allegations of neglect. The installation of the Aregba of Iregba marks a turning point in the community`s relationship with the state, highlighting a growing trend of local communities resorting to self-help in matters of traditional leadership.

A suspected Improvised Explosive Device was detonated early Wednesday at the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa. The explosion, however, prompted an emergency response from security agencies and a temporary disruption of official activities. The explosion occurred at about 6:00 am, triggering swift intervention by the Bayelsa State Police Command. Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Iyamah, in a statement on Wednesday, assured residents that no casualties were recorded and no property was damaged. He said, “The Bayelsa State Police Command wish to inform the general public of a suspected IED explosion which occurred today, 11th February 2026, at about 0600hrs within the State Secretariat Complex. I immediately led the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit, Special Drone Unit and other Tactical Teams to the scene. “On arrival at the scene, the operatives of the Explosive Ordinance Unit swiftly contained the explosion. “The area was immediately cordoned off and upon detailed search, one unexploded IED was identified by EOD operatives and was rendered safe. No life lost, no property destroyed. One Pentecost Elijah, a 60-year-old man from Otuan Community in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State, was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident. “He is currently undergoing interrogation at the State Criminal Investigation Department and upon conclusion, the suspect will be charged in court. Let me inform you that the situation is under control and normalcy has been restored. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and continue with their lawful business activities.” Following the incident, the Bayelsa State Government ordered a temporary closure of work for four hours, affecting over 6,000 state employees as a precautionary measure. The directive was issued by the Head of Service, Dr Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer. Security operatives, including the anti-bomb squad, cordoned off access roads leading to the State Secretariat and the Bayelsa State Government House while investigations and safety procedures were ongoing. Authorities said the situation has been fully contained. In 2024, a bomb explosion killed one child and injured four children in Niger state. The incident occurred in the Bassa community in Shiroro Local Government Area when the children found the bomb on the ground and went on to play with it. The bomb exploded, killing the child on the spot and injuring the others.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has been dragged to court to make an appearance personally or through representation in a case instituted against him by princes of the town at the State High Court sitting in Oyo Town. The claimants; Ladigbolu Adegboyega, Owoade Tesleem, Adeyemi Adesina and Adeyemi Adebayo — in suit No: HOY/18/2026, sought an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Alaafin, a defendant in the suit, either by himself, servants, privies or any other person whatsoever, from appearing, attending or further attending occasions and functions that are not befitting the status of a symbolic traditional head of the Yoruba race. They also sought an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from acting in any traditional or official capacity that would make him subservient or inferior to any Oba in Yorubaland. The claimants further sought a declaration that the office of the Alaafin of Oyo, currently occupied by the defendant, is of great historical importance not only in Yorubaland but also in Nigeria, West Africa and beyond. “A declaration that the Alaafin of Oyo is the symbol of unity, togetherness and the pivotal holder of the cultural, customary and traditional heritage of the Yoruba people. “A declaration that the Alaafin of Oyo is the paramount ruler and appointing authority over all chieftaincies in Oyo Town as well as Oyo North and South,” the suit read. The defendant, as stated in the writ of summons, may enter an appearance personally or through legal practitioners by handing in the appropriate forms duly completed at the registry of the High Court of the judicial division where the action was brought, or by sending them to the registry by registered post.

A former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, on Sunday called for the recognition and promotion of the Iwe Iroyin House — where the first newspaper in Nigeria was published in Abeokuta in December 1859 by British missionary, Rev. Henry Townsend—as a key heritage site. Chief Obasanjo also urged that similar recognition be extended to the Abeokuta residence of one of the wealthiest Yoruba women in history, Efunsetan Aniwura, a former Iyalode of Ibadan; Madam Efunroye Tinubu’s two-storey building near Akin Olugbade Hospital, Abeokuta; her burial ground at Gbagura; as well as the old Ibara Railway Station and the first flyover in Abeokuta. The former president further stressed the importance of showcasing notable Egba personalities such as the Ransome-Kutis, Toye Cokers, Majekodunmis and M.K.O. Abiola, as well as institutions like Abeokuta Grammar School, in order to preserve and promote the historical sites of the ancient town. Obasanjo, according to a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, made the call while hosting organisers of the Lisabi Pre-Festival Heritage Tour and Cultural Art Exhibition in Egbaland. The Lisabi Day Festival is an annual cultural celebration in honour of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, a revered warrior of Egbaland who is believed to have mysteriously disappeared into the Oba Forest in present-day Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State about 200 years ago. While hosting the delegation, Obasanjo reportedly emphasised the need to “preserve, renovate and promote key heritage sites,” warning against continued neglect and destruction so that future generations would have tangible history to enhance tourism. “There is no doubt that Egbaland is filled with notable people and places which must be preserved and given a facelift to boost tourism,” he said. “The background of these great individuals should be highlighted and shown to the world. One of several heritage sites that require attention is the popular Iwe Iroyin House (home of Nigeria’s first newspaper), as well as the Abeokuta Prison at Ibara, one of the oldest in the country.” Other sites mentioned by the former president included the old and dilapidated Ibara Railway Station; Oke Sokori, the residence of Efunsetan Aniwura; Madam Tinubu’s storey building near Akin Olugbade Hospital; Madam Tinubu’s burial ground at Gbagura; and the first flyover in Abeokuta. The Chairman of the Lisabi Festival Committee and Asipa of Egbaland, Navy Captain Rasheed Adisa Raji (retd.), explained that the purpose of the visit was to brief the former president on the 2026 Lisabi Festival and the proposed Lisabi Pre-Festival Heritage Tour and Cultural Art and Heritage Exhibition. Raji said, “We are also here to seek your blessings on the cultural and festival tours, which will include a special exhibition of traditional herbs (Ewe ati Egbo) and medicines. “We also request, sir, our Baba, to deliver a lecture on the role of traditional herbs from Egbaland during this festival.” The Coordinator of the Pre-Festival Heritage Tour and Cultural Art Exhibition, Olusanya John, presented a detailed itinerary and exhibition plan, emphasising that all key sections of Egbaland would participate in hosting the tours and visits during the festival period. The former president accepted the invitation and assured the organisers of his support, pledging to deliver the lecture and contribute to the success of the event. Other members of the visiting delegation included Prof. Ajao Adelekan; renowned theatre artist Ebun Oloyede (Igwe Olaiya); Chief Sina Yekinni; Chief Modupeoluwa Sanyaolu; Chief Akindele M. Olajumoke; Basirat Adisa; and Olawunmi Abiola, among others.