Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Monday described 2026 as pivotal, being the prelude to 2027, when general elections will hold. The governor made the remark during the annual Interfaith Prayer Session to commemorate the commencement of the New Year. He also called on residents to take security matters seriously to ensure the state remains safe. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, in Ibadan, the state capital, Makinde urged residents to be wary of candidates making unrealistic promises as the political season draws near. He noted that following the impressive performance of his administration, residents should look forward to a member of his team taking over from him in 2027 to steer the state to greater development. Makinde promised to continue working for the progress of the state while ensuring the well-being of the people. He said, “When we came in 2019, we met the 2016 promotion arrears, meaning that for three years, there was no promotion before we were sworn-in. We cleared all of the backlogs and ensured we meet up every year. “The file for the 2025 promotion has been sent to me, and I will sign it today. So, those of you who are due for promotion, rest assured you will get it soon.” Speaking on the imperative of residents remaining watchful to ensure security, the governor tasked citizens to alert authorities about suspicious activities. He added, “I want us to be vigilant on the issue of security. We have only spent 12 days this year, and we have lost some people already at Old Oyo National Park. Security is everybody’s responsibility, and I want to urge that you should say something to the authority when you see something. “I believe we all have our people scattered everywhere. Try to encourage them to take the issue of security very seriously, and I can assure you that this administration will play its own part to keep us safe and secure.” The governor also said that the review of emoluments for Heads of Local Government Administration was being considered, expressing hope that the matter would be settled before the end of January. Earlier, the Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni, commended Makinde for his steadfastness and consistency in delivering people-centred development programmes across the state. She highlighted the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability. She lauded the governor for his support of the public and civil service through regular salary payments, increment of monthly gratuity from N1.5 billion to N3 billion, payment of 13th-month salaries to civil servants, retirees, and NYSC members; training and retraining locally and internationally; review of the Civil Service Rules; consistent support for Public Service Week and annual merit awards; provision of free transportation for workers; appointment of 45 Permanent Secretaries with status vehicles; staff promotions; conversion of civil servants into relevant cadres; reconstruction of the Head of Service Quarters; and construction of a 250-seater Resource Centre at Simeon Adebo Development Centre, among others. Oni also thanked Labour union leaders and other stakeholders for fostering a stable and peaceful atmosphere that has led to industrial harmony in the state. In his goodwill message, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Muhammed Fadeyi, commended the governor for his worker-friendly policies, support to the legislative arm, recruitment of staff for the House of Assembly Commission, and infrastructure development. The state Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima, expressed gratitude to the governor for his dedication to the judiciary, while the Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde, praised Makinde for transforming the state’s economy and laying the foundation for sustainable development through improved budget performance. The state Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, Kayode Martin, speaking on behalf of other labour unions, said the Labour Centres would not accept any regression in workers’ welfare, noting that Makinde had set the standard for the next administration. He commended prompt salary payments, pensions, gratuities, promotions, and overall worker welfare under the administration. The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Segun Abatan, also thanked the governor for the new year bonus and other benefits, presenting a white horse as a gesture of appreciation for his commitment to pensioners’ welfare over the past six years. The event was attended by the former governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal; former First Lady Mutiat Ladoja; former Deputy Governor Hamid Gbadamosi; President of the State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice T. M Abdulganiyu; former Speaker Monsurat Sunmonu; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade; former Chief Judge Hon. Justice Badejoko Adeniyi (retd); member representing Ibarapa North/Ibarapa Central Federal Constituency, Anthony Adepoju; PDP South-West Chairman, Kamorudeen Ajisafe; and PDP South-West Women Leader, Bose Adedibu.

Ibadan traditional stakeholders comprising monarchs, Mogajis, Baales, and prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland have once again cautioned the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, against any form of disrespect towards the revered stool of the Olubadan and the Ibadan traditional institution. The stakeholders condemned the conduct of Oba Owoade, who was reported to have stretched out his hand while seated to greet the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, during a function held today at the Agodi Government House, Ibadan. They described the action as a gross insult to the Olubadan and the entire Ibadan traditional institution. According to them, the uncultured act, which was reportedly ignored by the Olubadan, should be taken as a clear warning. They stressed that any further disrespect from the Alaafin would be met with a strong and decisive response from Ibadan traditional stakeholders, including Kabiyesis, chiefs, Mogajis and Baales. In a statement jointly signed by the President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, and the Coordinator of the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), Mogaji Dr. Nurudeen Akinade, the action of Oba Owoade was described as an embarrassment of the highest order. The duo stated that Ibadan traditional stakeholders are fully prepared to decisively address any act capable of bringing disrepute to the Ibadan traditional institution. They further emphasized that Oba Adewolu Ladoja surpasses Oba Owoade in age, achievements, social standing, political exposure, business success, leadership pedigree, and his position as the custodian of Ibadan traditional affairs. The statement read in part: “The continuous disrespect of the Alaafin towards the stool of Olubadan and Ibadan traditional institution is becoming intolerable. If Governor Seyi Makinde fails to caution him and Ibadan people are pushed into reacting, the Alaafin will regret his actions. “We have records of repeated uncultured behaviour towards Ibadan traditional stools. This must stop. Ibadanland will not tolerate further aggravation. “Ibadan people are not cowards. We are fearless, but we have chosen restraint in the interest of peace. “Our culture and tradition are sacred. Anything capable of ridiculing them will be firmly resisted. “The Alaafin cannot come into our territory, sit down, and stretch his hand to greet our highly revered 82-year-old Olubadan. “Oba Ladoja is a former Senator, former Governor, an international figure, and a successful businessman. “The Alaafin may choose not to greet the Olubadan, but stretching his hand while seated is an insult to the entire Ibadan traditional institution. “Ibadanland has never been subordinate to the Alaafin — Ibadan man

A total of 95 princes and princesses of Fusengbuwa Ruling House have expressed interest in the stool of Awujale of Ijebuland. The development was disclosed by Olori Ebi of Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Lateef Owoyemi, at the commencement of a nomination meeting held at Bisi Rodipe Hall, GRA, Ijebu Ode. Owoyemi is also known as Otunba Jadiara. Other leaders of the Ruling House who were present at the meeting include Deputy Olori Ebi, Otunba Ajidagba, Chairman, Chief Fassy Yusuf, among others. Otunba Owoyemi informed the meeting that the names of those who scaled the first hurdle would be forwarded to the Afobajes. According to him, the Afobajes would select one of the candidates as the next Awujale and forward his name to the Ogun State Government. He stated that those in disagreement with the exercise can channel their grievances to the government.

Popular Fuji musician and Olori Omooba of Ijebu land, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, has written Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, alleging that he is being excluded from the ongoing selection process for the next Awujale of Ijebu land. Ayinde claimed that the Fusengbuwa ruling house, next in line to produce the Awujale, has been issuing directives that contravene the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State. He alleged that these measures are intended to disenfranchise him from contesting for the throne. The allegations were contained in a letter dated January 8, 2026, sent to Governor Abiodun by Ayinde’s lawyer, Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN. The selection of the new Awujale has reportedly attracted over 60 contestants, with Ayinde—popularly called KWAM1—also declaring his interest. The Fusengbuwa family, the ruling house responsible for producing the next Awujale, has previously stated that Ayinde is not a member of their family and therefore, ineligible to participate in the selection process. Ayinde had earlier approached the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu Ode seeking an interim injunction to stop Abiodun and six others from proceeding with the selection. The court refused the request, ruling that the application lacked merit. The musician subsequently withdrew the suit, without providing a tangible reason. In the recent letter to Abiodun, Ayinde said that the Ijebu Ode Local Government, through a letter dated January 6, 2026, from its Secretary, Oke Adebanjo, gave the government’s nod for the ruling house to commence the selection process. He expressed surprise that while family members were preparing for the meeting, one Prince Adeleye Lateef Ademuyiwa, the family’s Public Relations Officer, issued a notice directing candidates to collect nomination cards and appear before a screening committee chaired by Prince Alhaji Mitiu Adenuga. Ayinde added that the directive scheduled the nomination exercise for Monday, January 12, 2026, but also stated that the process would be carried out by delegates to be selected at a meeting held on January 10, 2026. The letter read, “It is a matter of deep concern to our client that all these directives, which contravene the Chieftaincy Declaration, Obas and Chiefs Law, and the letter from the Secretary of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, were included in the family’s letter dated January 6, 2026. “It is clear that there are plans by the leadership of the ruling house to disenfranchise members desirous of participating in the nomination of candidates for the Awujale stool. “We wish to emphasize that all members of the ruling house are entitled to attend the meeting to nominate candidates of their choice. “A group of people in the ruling house cannot usurp these rights. The directive providing for screening and nomination by delegates is inconsistent with both the spirit and letter of the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State 2021. “In the interest of justice and compliance with due process, we urge timely intervention to address these concerns, ensuring the integrity of the process and protecting our client’s rights.” The Vice Chairman of the Fusengbuwa ruling house, Prof. Fassy Yusuf, confirmed receiving the letter but dismissed it as “arrant nonsense” with no bearing on the selection process. Speaking on Sunday, Yusuf said, “It is a misguided letter. Either Wahab Shittu is being misled, or Wasiu Ayinde is being misled. The letter was directed to the government, which will respond appropriately. “The issue being raised about screening is illogical. We have over 20,000 members in the ruling house—how does he expect us to manage the crowd?” The family has scheduled the nomination meeting for Monday, January 12, 2026, for those contesting the vacant stool. The Awujale stool became vacant in July 2025 following the death of 91-year-old Oba Sikiru Adetona, who reigned for 65 years. Efforts to obtain a reaction from the Ogun State Government proved abortive, as the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Governor Abiodun, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, had not responded to enquiries at the time of publication.

Popular social media personality and AI-themed content creator, Amadou Aminata, popularly known as Jarvis, has announced that her mother’s health is deteriorating, opening up on deep-seated family struggles and the emotional toll of public scrutiny following her recent breakup with fellow influencer, Habeeb Hamzat, aka Peller. In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Jarvis disclosed that her mother was seriously ill, expressing fears that social media users could exploit her condition or weaponise it against her. She also addressed the criticism she anticipates from those who may question her care for her mother, particularly in light of her perceived financial success, stressing that her mother’s condition is beyond monetary solutions. “My mum is actually sick. What I’m saying is that the Internet is crazy. Tomorrow, they might record her in her condition and try to use it against me. “That’s the one thing I’ve been scared of; that nobody should find out that my mum is not well, then come and speak against me on social media,” she said in the video. According to her, money was no longer the solution. “Social media will always say, ‘Why didn’t you take care of her? You have all the money.’ But the truth is that at this point, money can’t solve it. It’s just God, faith and belief.” Fighting back tears, Jarvis paid tribute to her mother, describing her as a resilient single parent who raised the family without support from their Senegalese father. “I love my mum, and she tried. She really tried. She fought and defended us without any father’s support,” she said. The content creator also opened up about her long-standing struggle to reconnect with her estranged father, revealing that he stopped communicating with her when she was still a child. “When I was a child, he used to call me “Aminata”, and I would just giggle. But, it got to a point when the communication stopped. Till today, I haven’t heard from him,” she disclosed. She added that she had personally taken steps to search for him, including travelling to Senegal, but without success. “I’m the one searching. I’ve gone to Senegal. I’m still trying my best,” she said. Jarvis’ emotional revelations come weeks after she confirmed the end of her relationship with Peller, following a suicide attempt in which he attempted to crash his car during a livestream. In a separate video shared on Instagram, the influencer admitted that the breakup left her emotionally shattered, describing her life as “broken and scattered.” Using the image of a Christmas tree she struggled to assemble, she likened her emotional state to rebuilding something damaged, piece by piece. “Life has moulded me through pain, pressure and heartbreak,” she said, noting that growth does not mean the absence of hardship. Since the breakup, Jarvis said she had been deliberately focusing on healing, self-reflection and personal growth. She added that she had withdrawn from some public engagements, reduced online noise and channelled her energy into rebuilding her life emotionally and mentally. Despite the pain, she noted that she had continued creating content at her own pace, encouraging herself daily to stay strong, especially in the face of those who once doubted her potential. “I’m rebuilding from the ground up,” she said.

Over 22 persons are currently being held captive by bandits in different communities in Kwara South, with their captors demanding an aggregate of over N400 million, foods and drinks as ransom. The affected communities, which include Adanla, Isapa, Isanlu-Isin and Owa-Onire, are those not captured by the military emplacements by the state and federal government. THENEWSCREDIT reliably gathered that the bandits migrated from communities like Okeode, Babanla Eruku, where the Federal Government had facilitated military base, to other communities that has little or no security presence to continue their onslaught. Meet the captives Currently, nine persons including the monarch of Afin in Ile Ere district Oba Simeon Olanipekun and son Olaolu, a youth corper abducted in December are still being held, same with nine persons abducted in Isapa and the two persons kidnapped on highway on Isanlu-Isin early this year. Also, two persons kidnapped in Owa-Onire in December are still in the captivity of the bandits. The monarch, Olowa of Owa-Onire Oba AbdulRahman Fabiyi, who claimed to have been abducted sometimes in 2024, and was released after payment of N5 million, told journalists on Friday that two persons abducted in the community in December are still with the bandits. According to him, “I spoke with the two of them yesterday. We have paid them N2 million and we have negotiated down to N800,000 and lists of foods and drinks they gave us to also bring along with the amount before the two persons can be released.” The monarch, who lamented over the porosity of the community without presence of any security, pleaded with the state government to speedily facilitate police station in Owa-Onire to discourage the incessant kidnappings. He said, “They always operate freely here. We don’t have presence of security in Owa-Onire. “Our concern is that whenever they exhaust the ransom money and foods and drinks we supplied, they’ll come out again and abduct my people. So, we urgently need presence of security to discourage this kind of sad development.” Oba Olanipekun, who recalled his experience in the hands of bandits and the inability of the security agents to neutralised them, said: “The forests is extremely large and the routes are multiple and they know the routes because they have been existing there for decades. “Thats why they always warn anyone not to attempt to escape. “So the multiple routes and the largeness of the thick forests where they operate has been a major tasks for the security agents. That is why I’m pleading with the state government to provide security for my own people.” Shedding light on this development, Coordinator of the Joint Security Watch for Kwara South Senatorial District, Zubair Olaitan, said: “Arresting and neutralizing bandits in Kwara South has been challenging due to several factors. “The region’s terrain, with its vast forests, hills and caves as well as porous borders, provides a safe haven for these criminals. “The bandits have also reportedly received support from locals, including food, shelter, and intelligence, making it harder for security forces to track them down. “Lack of effective communication (like drones etc) and coordination between security agencies and local communities has hindered efforts to combat banditry. “However, the Kwara State Government, in collaboration with federal security agencies, has taken steps to address these challenges, including deploying forest guards and launching joint patrols. “Recent operations have yielded some successes, with security forces neutralizing several bandits and arresting suspects supplying them with guns, food, and other essentials. “The government has also warned that it will not tolerate banditry and is committed to restoring peace in the region. I’m aware that efforts are ongoing by security operatives to study the terrain and further comb the forests.” The helmsman for security network in Kwara south however said that, “No progress has been recorded on the bandits demand for N300 million ransom for the release of nine victims abducted in Adanla community of Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state on Boxing Day, December 26, 2025. He said that the bandits have so far made three contacts with the community leaders that “if the N300m is not paid, the victims will not be released.” The bandits seized the nine victims in an attempt to abduct the King of the community, and his wife on Boxing Day, but failed. The King, David Olarinoye, was away to Igbaja town for a programme when the armed bandits invaded his community. The bandits, however, later seized nine other victims in the community and marched them to the bush. Recall that while seven victims were abducted at the palace of the King, two others were captured on their way to the bush. Following the abduction, the bandits demanded N300 million for the release of the abducted victims, resisting any negotiations for reduction of the ransom. Similarly in Isapa, Ekiti local government area of the state, Akeweje of Isapa land Chief Idowu Sunday said that 11 persons are still being held by the bandits who are demanding for N35 million for them to be released. He however said that a pregnant Hausa woman who was among the captives was recently brought to a stream in OroAgo (another neighbouring town) on a motorcycle by the bandits when she was displaying pregnancy contraction, a sign that she’ll soon give birth. Idowu Sunday, also the acting Asipa Ode of Isapa land explained that the bandits initially demanded for N300 million since they collected N350 million to release those abducted in CAC Oke-Isegun in Eruku. He added that after much negotiation, they asked the community to bring N35 million, but thereafter the community asked three of their members to give the bandits N4 million to secure their release. He explained further that two of the persons that went to give the bandits the amount were angrily seized with others, making the 11 persons, dubbing the amount as recharge card while the third person who stood afar, waiting for the two, luckily escaped. The Akeweje, who is also craving for state government intervention, said that the bandit are threatening to kill the 11 persons, and will further come to Isapa community and be killing residents if the amount is not paid. “We can’t take the bandits for granted because we know what they can do. We don’t want them to kill our people. So the state government should please come to our aid,” he said.

The Oyo State Police Command has officially announced a massive, statewide crackdown on vehicles without valid registration and motorcyclists who conceal their identities while in transit. This enforcement, which is aimed at curbing a rising trend in criminal mobility and enhancing public safety, is set to begin in full on Monday, January 11, 2026. In a statement released on Friday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed that the order came directly from the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, as part of a proactive strategy to deny criminals the tools of anonymity and strengthen crime prevention across the state. “The Oyo State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, PSC (+), wishes to inform members of the public of proactive security measures being implemented by the Command to further strengthen public safety, curb criminal activities, and enhance crime prevention across the State,” the statement read. The police identified several primary targets for the upcoming operation, including unmarked vehicles, vehicles or motorcycles with covered, blinded, or fake plates, and unauthorised NANS or Dealer’s plates. Additionally, the crackdown will target motorcyclists who wear hoods or cover their faces with masks in a manner capable of concealing their identity. The police leadership emphasised that the grace period for compliance is coming to an end, warning that from Monday, tactical units and patrol teams will have a mandate to seize non-compliant vehicles. “Henceforth, any person found violating these directives shall be arrested, while the vehicle or motorcycle involved shall be impounded, and suspects prosecuted accordingly upon the conclusion of investigations,” Olayinka stated. These measures have become imperative following credible intelligence and operational assessments, which reveal that criminal elements increasingly exploit unmarked vehicles and disguised motorcyclists to evade detection and perpetrate crimes within local communities. In preparation for the enforcement, the Commissioner of Police recently held a sensitisation meeting with the leadership and representatives of commercial motorcyclists across the state to discuss the new security regime. During the engagement, according to the statement, the CP issued a stern warning that any individual or group found using motorcycles as cover for criminal activities will be made to face the full weight of the law. To enhance collaboration and community policing, he also shared his personal contact with the union leadership to encourage the timely flow of credible intelligence while assuring them of confidentiality and a swift police response. The Command further stressed that routine stop-and-search operations, checkpoints, and intelligence-driven patrols remain lawful and effective tools for crime prevention and will continue to be deployed strategically across the state. “The Command emphasises that routine stop-and-search operations, checkpoints, and intelligence-driven patrols remain lawful and effective tools for crime prevention, and they will continue to be deployed strategically across the State in the interest of public safety,” the statement added. This move is in line with the policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IG Kayode Egbetokun, which prioritises proactive policing and strong partnerships with the public. Residents are enjoined to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and security-conscious as the enforcement date approaches. The public is encouraged to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines. The Commissioner of Police expressed appreciation for the continued cooperation of residents and assured that the Command, under his leadership, will continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and accountability. For emergencies, the public can contact the Oyo State Call Response Center via the toll-free line 615 or the Police Control Room at 08081768614 and 07055495413. THENEWSCREDIT earlier reported that gunmen invaded the National Park Service office in Oloka, Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, leaving four personnel feared dead, and one other in critical condition. It was gathered that the attack occurred at about 9pm. Preliminary reports revealed that at least five personnel of the National Park Service were affected during the assault.

The Ashipa of Ogbomosoland, Chief Olusegun Adekunle, has called for heightened vigilance, improved intelligence sharing and stronger community participation in security efforts following a bandit attack on park rangers at Oloka Village, near the Old Oyo National Park. Anti terrorism equipment In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, the Ashipa described the attack, in which the rangers were killed while on lawful duty, as painful and deeply disturbing, noting that it had unsettled residents of Ogbomosoland and neighbouring communities. He said the incident once again highlighted the persistent security challenges confronting settlements around the Old Oyo National Park axis, an area prone to criminal activities due to its expansive forest reserves and porous boundaries. Adekunle, however, observed that security presence and surveillance in the area had improved since the attack. Commending security agencies for what he described as their difficult and hazardous assignment, the Ashipa said operatives continued to make significant sacrifices to protect lives and property. He urged the public to support their efforts through cooperation and the timely provision of credible intelligence to enhance operational effectiveness. Adekunle stressed that security should be regarded as a collective responsibility, calling on residents to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious activities and avoid actions that could aid criminal elements. Placing the incident within the broader South-West security framework, he said the attack underscored the importance of the regional security fund established by South-West governors to strengthen intelligence gathering, logistics and coordinated responses across state boundaries. He noted that sustained funding and transparent utilisation of the initiative were critical to addressing emerging security threats, particularly in border communities. The Ashipa also highlighted the role of the South-West Development Commission in complementing security efforts at the grassroots, stressing that improved community-level security was essential to boosting economic activities, especially farming, which remains central to livelihoods in Ogbomosoland and surrounding areas. He noted that Ogbomosoland occupies a strategic position, sharing a boundary with Kwara State, where a number of security incidents have been reported in recent times. According to him, this makes cross-border collaboration and intelligence sharing imperative to curbing the movement of criminal elements. Adekunle further commended traditional rulers across the five local government areas of Ogbomosoland for their stabilising roles and called for stronger collaboration among them to mobilise communities, deepen grassroots intelligence and promote peace. He offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the park rangers who lost their lives in the attack and for comfort for their families, describing the fallen officers as heroes whose sacrifice should strengthen unity and collective resolve against insecurity in the region.

ABUJA — Former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has raised the alarm over Nigeria’s deepening poverty crisis, saying the country is sliding backwards as politicians remain fixated on power struggles and control of party structures. In a statement, yesterday, Obi said about 141 million Nigerians, 62 percent of the population, are now living in poverty, describing the situation as a grave national failure and a threat to the country’s future. “As we politicians scramble for positions and vie for control of party structures, often sharing posts even before elections are concluded, a harsh truth confronts our nation: a staggering 62 percent of Nigerians, roughly 141 million people, are ensnared in poverty,” Obi said. He cited World Bank data showing a sharp rise in poverty levels in recent years, noting that the number of Nigerians living in poverty increased from 81 million in 2019 to approximately 139 million in 2025. According to him, the situation worsened significantly within a single year, as poverty figures rose from 115 million in 2023 to 129 million in 2024, pushing 14 million more Nigerians into hardship. “Projections for 2026 suggest that this figure will reach around 141 million, meaning an additional 26 million Nigerians will be thrust into poverty between 2023 and 2026. “It is estimated that by 2026, an overwhelming 141 million people, 62 percent of the population, will be living in poverty “Low-income households are especially at risk, as food constitutes up to 70 percent of their total spending, leaving them acutely vulnerable to food inflation and price shocks. “A sustained increase in poverty could unravel public finances, erode human capital, and impede economic recovery unless we see robust job creation, productivity growth, and effective social protection programs. “Meanwhile, Nigeria has witnessed a rise in poverty from about 40 percent in 2000 to a distressing 62 percent today. “By 2025, while India and Bangladesh surged to 0.685, and Indonesia rose to 0.74, Nigeria languished at 0.53, remaining entrenched in the low human development category after 25 years. “The fact that 141 million Nigerians are living in poverty is not merely a national failure, it is a blatant threat to our future. The time for complacency has passed,” Obi said. Meanwhile, Obi has also faulted the failure to pay match allowances owed to members of Nigeria’s senior national football team, the Super Eagles, describing the situation as an embarrassing reflection of the country’s misplaced priorities and poor sense of obligation. Obi made the remarks while reacting to reports that the players were still being owed agreed match bonuses despite their ongoing campaign and morale-boosting performances for the country. “Can we get through a day without troubling news in this country?” Obi asked.“ “At a time when Nigerians need joy and unity, something the national football team, the Super Eagles, has been providing by winning matches and lifting our spirits worldwide, these same players are being denied their basic match allowances,” he said. Obi contrasted the situation with what he described as the ease with which huge public funds are written off or spent on projects that do little to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians, arguing that the inability to settle players’ allowances exposes distorted national priorities. “A country that writes off trillions in debts for government agencies and political allies, and squanders money on grandiose, self-serving projects, now struggles to pay the basic match bonuses owed to our players.“ “Nigeria deserves a better international image than this ongoing failure to honor previously agreed-upon allowances before the tournament. “The Super Eagles do not deserve this embarrassment or the avoidable distractions ahead of a crucial quarter-final match,” he said. Obi stressed that the issue goes beyond sports, insisting that national credibility depends on the ability to keep commitments, no matter how small.““Nigeria must learn to fulfill its obligations,” he said.

IBADAN — Governor Seyi Makinde has strongly condemned a "senseless and devastating" cross-border attack by bandits on the National Park Service (NPS) office in Oloka Village, near Ogbomoso, which resulted in the tragic deaths of five forest guard officers on Tuesday night, January 6, 2026. The attack occurred at approximately 9:00 p.m. in the Oriire Local Government Area. Preliminary investigations by security agencies suggest the perpetrators were bandits who crossed state borders to carry out the assault before retreating. In a statement released Wednesday, Governor Makinde described the loss of the personnel as a "devastating blow" to the state`s security architecture, noting that the officers were killed while carrying out their lawful duties to protect the nation’s natural resources. “This is a heartbreaking loss of dedicated personnel,” the Governor stated. “Our administration will leave no stone unturned to respond decisively and prevent a recurrence of such attacks. We are committed to ensuring that those who seek to disrupt the peace of Oyo State are brought to justice.” The Governor appealed for calm among residents of Oriire and other border local government areas, confirming that normalcy has been restored following the deployment of additional security personnel to the region. A combined team of security agencies, including the military and police, has been deployed to flashpoints along the Ogbomoso border to forestall further incursions. Authorities are urging residents to cooperate with security forces by providing actionable intelligence to aid ongoing investigations. The Oyo State government has vowed to strengthen the protection of its forest reserves and parks, ensuring they do not become safe havens for criminal elements. The Oyo State Police Command, through Public Relations Officer Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident and noted that a manhunt for the attackers is currently underway.