Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman meets industrial leaders, pledges road repairs, improved IGR, and stronger government-industry collaboration for local growth
Wasiu Lawal,Executive Chairman Ado-Odo/Ota LG
Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman Courts Industrial Leaders, Seeks Stronger Collaboration on Roads, Revenue Growth
The Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Ogun State, has urged captains of industry to strengthen collaboration with government in driving development within the council area.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting hosted by Royal-Queen Products and Industrial Limited, with focus on the agricultural processing sector—particularly maize producers—the chairman said governance at the grassroots must directly touch the people through provision of basic amenities.
“Local governments are constitutionally empowered to generate revenue alongside federal allocations,” he noted, stressing that partnerships were vital in infrastructure development, revenue generation, and road safety.
The chairman assured participants that concerns raised would be captured in the 2026 state budget, especially regarding road upgrades within industrial estates. He added that the council was committed to sensitizing truck drivers on road safety and revealed that the local government legislative council had already sponsored a bill to regulate trading activities along major roads, following a public hearing on September 9.
Dr. Ipinlaye Isaac, Director of Royal-Queen Products and Industrial Limited, commended the engagement but urged the council to close loopholes in its internally generated revenue (IGR) system.
“With proper accountability, the council will be better positioned to plan and deliver on its obligations,” he advised.
Industrialists at the forum highlighted poor road infrastructure as the biggest challenge to businesses in the area. Dr. Ipinlaye stressed that once road conditions improve, companies would willingly pay their dues, easing IGR collection.
Also speaking, Dr. Tade Adegbite, Executive Director of Eagle Package Printing Limited, referenced the ₦100 million drainage project launched by some industrialists to channel stormwater into a government-approved canal as an example of private sector efforts complementing government initiatives.
On agriculture, Dr. Ipinlaye further recommended that the council emulate Thailand’s rice revolution by partnering with private investors and encouraging smallholder cultivation to boost local food production.
The meeting ended on an optimistic note, with both the council and industrial leaders pledging to collaborate for the socio-economic growth of Ado-Odo/Ota. Read More
DJ Cuppy has hailed her sister Temi Otedola’s wedding to Mr Eazi as “the wedding of the century,” praising its intimacy, elegance, and magical moments across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland
DJ Cuppy Hails Sister Temi Otedola’s Wedding to Mr Eazi as “The Wedding of the Century”
Media personality DJ Cuppy has proudly described her sister Temi Otedola’s wedding to Afrobeats star Mr Eazi as “the wedding of the century.”
Taking to X, Cuppy gushed about the fairytale ceremonies, which she said perfectly balanced subtlety, intimacy, and elegance.
“My sister @TemiOtedola had THE wedding of the century… subtle, intimate, and effortlessly elegant. #LoveIsEazi was pure magic from start to finish. Anyone there couldn’t help but feel inspired. Argue with your group chat,” she wrote.
DJ Cuppy
Her post quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions online. While many fans agreed the wedding was a dream, others playfully teased Cuppy about her own relationship status.
The wedding itself was nothing short of spectacular, unfolding across three countries. The couple exchanged vows in a civil ceremony in Monaco, honored tradition with a colorful Yoruba celebration in Dubai, and capped it all off with a breathtaking church service in Iceland.
The Iceland reception was particularly unforgettable, featuring a special performance by Grammy-winning singer John Legend and a dazzling display of the Northern Lights — a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for the star-studded occasion.
For many guests and fans following online, #LoveIsEazi was more than just a wedding — it was an inspiring cultural and global celebration of love. Read More
A coalition of former legislators from across Nigeria has endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in 2027, praising his reforms and commitment to national unity
Ex-Lawmakers Endorse President Tinubu for Second Term, Cite Unity and Reforms
2027: Ex-Lawmakers Endorse President Tinubu For Second Term, Cite Unity and Reforms
A coalition of former legislators from both northern and southern Nigeria has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing unity, justice, and fairness as their guiding principles.
The endorsement took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and was convened by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, who also leads the National Forum of Former Legislators.
The high-profile gathering drew notable political figures, including former Senate President Ken Nnamani, former House of Representatives Speakers Patricia Olubunmi Etteh and Yakubu Dogara, members of the Federal Executive Council, and other dignitaries.
Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Gbajabiamila described the forum as “an exceptional opportunity for friends, former colleagues, and patriots who are committed to the promise of Nigeria to jointly consider ways to support the president in implementing long-delayed reforms necessary to advance the nation’s cause.”
He underscored national unity as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s progress, stressing: “National unity is the sine qua non for national development. Where there is no peace, there cannot be progress. Unity does not mean the absence of disagreements. It is about ensuring that even when we argue, we do so with respect and a shared sense of purpose.”
Gbajabiamila further praised Tinubu’s resolve in driving tough reforms since taking office, saying: “These are not the actions of a politician thinking about the next election; they are acts of extraordinary statesmanship by a leader whose highest concern is the fortune of the Nigerian people and the fate of the next generation.”
Highlighting key milestones under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Gbajabiamila pointed to the removal of inflated subsidy claims, the creation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to ensure access to higher education, and the signing of tax reforms into law to promote fairness and accountability.
“While our vision is clear and our destination certain, it is not lost on us that the journey itself is not an easy one. Fixing the things that have long been broken imposes costs, entails sacrifice, and requires time,” he added.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who hosted the forum, applauded the initiative and its convener, noting that the summit reflected a strong commitment to Nigeria’s unity.
“This summit demonstrates a deep sense of responsibility towards strengthening our oneness as a country,” Abiodun said. Read More
Chef Hilda Baci has invited Lagos residents to Eko Hotel to collect leftover jollof rice from her Guinness World Record attempt, assuring that the food is abundant, well-prepared, and won’t go to waste
Hilda Baci Shares Leftover Jollof from Guinness World Record Attempt, Invites Lagosians to Feast
Celebrity chef Hilda Baci has opened her doors to Lagos residents, giving away the massive leftover jollof rice from her Guinness World Record attempt for the largest pot of jollof rice.
The record-breaking event, held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, on Friday, produced thousands of kilograms of jollof rice. Despite days of packaging and distribution, Baci revealed that a significant quantity remains and she’s determined that none of it should go to waste.
In a video message to her fans and Lagos residents, the chef urged people to come with their containers and coolers to collect the food.
“We’re still packaging food. There is still so much food. Please, you guys, come through and come and get the food. It’s a lot and we cannot waste it. Please, the food is good. I promise you, a trial will convince you. Just come through, you can bring your coolers. See, we still have so much food,” Baci said.
The chef further emphasized her commitment to staying at the venue until the giant pot is emptied: “Even with all the packaging, there is still so much food. Please, I beg you, you guys, you can come to Eko Hotel. This is 6 a.m. I’m not leaving this place. I’ve been here since the day before yesterday. And I’m not going to leave this place until this pot is empty and until everybody in Lagos has eaten from this food. So, please, you people should come and get this food.”
Her team has already begun distributing portions to road users across Lagos, but Baci stressed that the food is still available in large quantity and free for everyone.
The initiative has drawn wide praise from Nigerians who see it as a generous act of community spirit following her high-profile Guinness World Record attempt. Read More
Nigeria’s Kayinsola Ajayi clocked an impressive 9.88 seconds to finish second in the heats and advance to the men’s 100m semi-finals at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo
Nigeria’s athlete Kayinsola Ajayi reacts after competing in the men’s 100m heats during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on September 13, 2025. (Photo by Jewel SAMAD / AFP)
World Athletics: Nigeria’s Kayinsola Ajayi Storms into 100m Semi-Finals with 9.88s Run
Nigeria’s Kayinsola Ajayi delivered a blistering performance at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, storming into the men’s 100m semi-finals with a personal best of 9.88 seconds.
The 20-year-old sprinter finished second in his heat behind fellow African, South Africa’s Gift Leotlel, who edged the race with 9.87 seconds at a wind speed of 0.3. Ajayi’s sub-10-second finish now ranks as the ninth-fastest time in the world this year, underlining his growing status as one of athletics’ brightest prospects.
The race was stacked with world-class names, including defending champion Noah Lyles, Jamaican star Kishane Thompson, and Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo, all of whom advanced comfortably. Lyles, pushed early by Jamaica’s fast-starting Ackeem Blake, powered through to win his heat in 9.95 seconds, while Blake settled for second in 10.07 seconds.
Ajayi’s qualification has sparked excitement in Nigerian athletics, with many tipping him as a potential finalist if he maintains his explosive form.
The men’s 100m semi-finals are scheduled for 11:45 GMT on Sunday, with the grand final to follow at 13:20 GMT in the Japanese capital. Read More
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Ogun chapter has condemned Governor Dapo Abiodun’s appointment of 1,200 political assistants, describing it as “daylight robbery” and a waste of state resources
Ogun ADC Slams Gov Abiodun’s Appointment of 1,200 Political Assistants as “Colossal Waste”
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogun State chapter, has strongly condemned the appointment of 1,200 political assistants by Governor Dapo Abiodun, describing the move as a “colossal waste” and an affront to struggling citizens.
The Abiodun-led administration had, on Friday, announced the appointments through a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade. According to him, the political aides — five from each of Ogun State’s 236 wards — were engaged as “change agents” to enhance civic engagement and strengthen grassroots democracy.
“The newly appointed political assistants are to support the delivery of democratic dividends, articulate the needs of their respective wards, and communicate these needs to the state government. They are also expected to provide accurate feedback from the government to the wards and vice versa,” Akinmade explained.
But in a swift reaction, the ADC state chairman, Otunba (Dr.) Femi Soluade, dismissed the initiative as “daylight robbery of the state’s patrimony” and accused the governor of wasting public funds on political patronage.
“At a time when ordinary citizens, workers, pensioners, and the unemployed are wallowing in abject poverty with infrastructural decay in the area of roads and social amenities, this outgoing government has decided to weaponize poverty further by creating political jobs for cronies in the name of governance,” Soluade declared.
He further described the appointments as evidence of “the cluelessness of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),” insisting that Ogun deserves leadership that invests in productive sectors, not in “reckless distribution of political largesse.”
According to Soluade, the move is part of a larger political strategy ahead of the 2027 elections. “The newly appointed political assistants are APC members being groomed to serve as delegates with state resources since such appointments are not statutory by law and will not be remunerated by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission,” he alleged.
The ADC chairman also criticized leaders of other opposition parties who openly backed the development. “It is very unfortunate that some notable leaders of NNPP and Labour Party in persons of Comrade Oginni Olaposi and Comrade Abayomi Arabambi are shamelessly supporting the illegal and heinous crimes of malgovernance and maladministration of Gov. Dapo Abiodun and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu–led APC maladministration,” Soluade said.
He further attacked the recent launch of the Emi Lokan programme in Ogun State, linking it to Abiodun’s alleged succession agenda. “The launching of EMI LOKAN Programme in support of President Tinubu 2027 and Abiodun’s clueless succession bid is condemnable and dead on arrival,” he declared.
Pledging resistance, Soluade vowed that the ADC would frustrate Abiodun’s succession plans. “The Ogun State ADC with the support of the people will on May 29th, 2027 make APC defunct in Ogun and retire Governor Dapo Abiodun back to his hometown, Iperu, to manage his oil company business,” he added.
He concluded by urging the governor to immediately reverse the decision, stressing that “true grassroots democracy is built on transparent governance, economic empowerment, quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure, not cosmetic appointments that drain the treasury.” Read More
“We like Greek gifts,” Nigerians blast NUPENG over Dangote’s fuel price reduction
Dangote CNG Tankers
Dangote had announced lower petrol pump prices in several states alongside a new scheme to deploy compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks directly to filling stations, a move expected to reduce logistics costs
The decision of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to warn Nigerians against accepting Dangote Refinery’s recent fuel price reduction has drawn heavy backlash on social media, with many citizens mocking the union and embracing what they described as “much-needed relief.”
Dangote had announced lower petrol pump prices in several states alongside a new scheme to deploy compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks directly to filling stations, a move expected to reduce logistics costs.
But NUPENG dismissed the offer as a “Greek gift,” alleging that the refinery was undermining workers’ rights, sidelining the union, and pushing drivers into a rival association.
Netizens have heavily lambasted the union querying that during hard times, NUPENG has never supported the masses.
On X (formerly Twitter), Nigerians quickly turned NUPENG’s warning into a trending topic, using humour and sarcasm to lampoon the union.
Oloye Somorin Osifeso (@OloyeSomorin) wrote: “We like Greek gifts in my garage.”
Just Jude (@JustJude) asked bluntly: “Is it your deception?”
Oladele (@Oladele) quipped: “As Dangote Refinery dey offer Nigerians Greek gift, why can’t NUPENG too offer Nigerians French gift?”
Agbalaka (@Agbalaka) queried: “Can they tell Nigerians what exactly they are fighting about?”
CBN Gov Akinsola (@Akinsola) joked: “Then give us Trojan gift now . Man do man. Man no go vex.”
Omobalaji (@Omobalaji) teased: “NUPENG, oya surprise us with Arabian gifts.”
Habdulakeem Bahdmus (@BahdmusHabdulakeem) added: “If Dangote is showering Nigerians with Greek gift, NUPENG can also set up a Roman gift now.”
Femi Yekinni (@FemiYekinni) steered it back to reality: “We thank them for their advice. Now, @DangoteGroup pls how do we schedule deliveries to Badagry?”
Curtis Abbi (@CurtisAbbi) slammed the union: “Nigerians will manage the Greek gift. @officialNUPENG9 what gift have you given Nigerians in your entire years of existence? NUPENG should offer Nigerians their own Somalian gift .”
Akin Adejola (@AkinAdejola) echoed the sentiment: “LOL. I can bet Nigerians don’t mind the gift. NUPENG should gift Nigerians same ‘Greek gift’ too if they have any goodwill. NUPENG is the enemy of progress in the oil & gas sector.”
Adeola Akinwande (@adeolarewaju9) criticised union leaders: “Does NUPENG remember Nigerians at hard times? They have all failed Nigerians the same way the @NLCHeadquarters has failed. They are living big on unionism and cashing out big time. Without unionism some of their excos are nobody. They should stop the crocodile tears.”
Okunwa U. U. Azikiwe (@OkunwaUUazikiwe) argued: “Competition has created jealousy by the previous monopoly in the sale of fuel. They have lost control, and it is paining them that they are no longer in control. SMH!!!”
Solihull Abdulkareem (@SolihullAbdul) chipped in: “NUPENG or whatever, do you want the market to be monopoly? You’ve been doing what you want for many years. It’s time for change, just accept it and move forward.”
Temidayo (@Temidayo) asked: “It’s a lie. What benefits has your union provided for Nigerians? Middlemen syndrome has been room for corruption. Your association should go and buy shares in Dangote and work together to make Nigeria great.”
And LegalTech Sam Akanbi (@SamAkanbi) summed up: “Nigerians no longer want your Nigerian gift, we want the Greek gift. If you have a better offer, we’d abandon Dangote’s Greek gift and take yours. But for now, let the Greek gift go round.”
It will be recalled that NUPENG alleged that Dangote Refinery was forcing truck drivers to abandon its union for a rival group, the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA).
The union says Dangote is undermining collective bargaining rights and violating a Memorandum of Understanding signed under government supervision.
Dangote, however, denies the claims, insisting that union membership remains voluntary and that its delivery scheme is designed to cut costs and ease supply.
The federal government has intervened, with the Ministry of Labour and the Department of State Services mediating between both parties. Read More
Ogun 2027 succession drama deepens as Governor Abiodun’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Emmanuel Ojo, openly declares support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), sparking tension within APC ranks.
Ogun 2027: Reactions as Gov Abiodun’s Popular Media Aide Makes Bold Declaration to Support Sen. Yayi
The race to succeed Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun in 2027 has taken a dramatic twist after one of his most visible aides openly declared support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.
Emmanuel Ojo, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor Abiodun, made the bold declaration during an online exchange with Korede Oladepo, a loyalist of PDP stalwart Ladi Adebutu.
“So you never know say na Sen. Yayi I dey support when it comes to #Ogun2027? Dey play, my fans. Abi you think say I be little boy that doesn’t know what he wants or where he’s headed?” Ojo wrote, in what has now become one of the most direct endorsements by a government appointee in the unfolding succession race.
The outburst came amid growing pressure from Abiodun loyalists, some of whom have urged the governor to weed out perceived disloyal appointees. Earlier, Ojo had sparked controversy when he posted: “You speak of loyalty, yet you never lifted a finger to support the Governor during his 2018–2019 aspiration. You’re eating what you did not cook.”
Oladepo quickly seized on the heated APC exchanges to challenge Ojo to reveal his true allegiance — and the aide did not hold back.
However, his public endorsement of Yayi has unsettled many within the governor’s circle. Political insiders argue that public appointees are expected to align strictly with their principal’s political body language.
“Governor Abiodun has not declared support for any aspirant. For his Senior Special Assistant to take a stand on his own is unusual. It suggests some things are not in sync,” a source close to the government noted.
For observers familiar with his roots, Ojo’s stance was not entirely surprising. He hails from Yewaland, the region widely seen as Yayi’s strongest base and Ogun West’s best shot at producing a governor for the first time in the state’s history.
Still, his emphatic remark that he is “not a little boy who doesn’t know what he wants or where he is headed” has drawn criticism from those who view it as a breach of political decorum.
Within the ruling APC, Senator Yayi has already emerged as the aspirant to beat. His rising popularity, particularly across Ogun West, has redefined the political conversation ahead of 2027. Yet, speculation lingers that Governor Abiodun may quietly be considering alternative succession plans.
With Ojo’s declaration, the undercurrents in the Ogun 2027 race have become impossible to ignore. One thing is clear — the battle for the state’s top seat has only just begun. Read More
Hon. Mutairu Gbadamosi, Leader of the Ado-Odo/Ota Legislative Council, accused of assaulting colleagues and mismanaging cash gifts.
Hon. Councilor Mutairu Gbadamosi (ACA, ACIB), Representing Ilogbo Ward and Leader, Ado-Odo/Ota LG 9th Legislative Council
N200,000 Cash Gift Scandal Rocks Ado-Odo/Ota Legislative Council: Lawmakers Trade Blows as Leader Gbadamosi Denies Misappropriation Allegations
The Ado-Odo/Ota Legislative Council has been thrown into turmoil following a shocking public altercation involving its Leader, Hon. Mutairu Gbadamosi (ACA, ACIB), and other councillors.
The confrontation, which reportedly occurred on Thursday, September 11, at the birthday celebration of the Supervisor for Women Affairs, Mrs. Bimbo Alaraba, has sparked allegations of financial misappropriation, authoritarian leadership, and physical assault against the council leader.
From Birthday Party to Political Showdown
Mrs. Bimbo Alaraba, Ado-Odo/Ota LG Supervisor for Women Affairs,
According to eyewitnesses, the incident began shortly after Gbadamosi arrived at the party. He was said to have assaulted Hon. Akapo Oladunjoye (Ado-Odo Ward 1) in what initially appeared to be a fallout over “financial misappropriation.” However, fresh findings by newsheadline247 revealed that the real bone of contention was cash gifts and political incentives meant for all members of the chamber.
One source who craved for anonymity said, “Hon. Gbadamosi assaulted Hon. Akapo shortly after arriving at the venue. It started with accusations of financial impropriety, but the real issue was money and gifts meant for the councillors.”
The situation escalated when Gbadamosi allegedly made phone calls during the altercation, after which suspected thugs stormed the venue, “brutalised” colleagues, and disrupted the event.
The N200,000 Trigger
Insiders traced the origins of the clash to a stakeholders’ meeting of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) held earlier in the week. At the meeting, a former House of Representatives member, Hon. Jimoh Ojugbele, reportedly donated N200,000 to be shared among the councillors.
It was alleged that Gbadamosi attempted to keep N40,000 belonging to three absent members, a move that sparked Hon. Akapo’s confrontation.
A councillor revealed in a phone chat with newsheadline247, “[sic] We had a stakeholder meetings [sic] on Monday that involved notable members of the party including former MHR member ojugbele [sic] who gave 160k and the leader wanted to corner whole sum of 40k because 3 of the legislators didn’t attend then akapo [sic] challenged leader that is the genesis of the saga, [sic].”
Gbadamosi Speaks: “Show Me Evidence”
When contacted, Hon. Gbadamosi strongly denied all allegations of corruption and wrongdoing.
In his WhatsApp response to newsheadline247, he said, “On the issue of financial misappropriation, the House does not have its own independent budget, and at no point was I given any money that was not duly delivered. If anyone has credible evidence, I would be glad to see it.”
On the fight itself, Gbadamosi offered a different narrative.
“Regarding the issue of thugs, I was invited to an event where I met two other honorable members, Hon. Joel Okeodebija and Hon. Akapo Oladunjoye. I greeted both of them and proceeded to have a conversation with Hon. Akapo, during which I expressed my disappointment over the way he had been reporting me to everyone on non-existent issues. Hon. Akapo did not respond, but Hon. Joel began swearing at me. At that point, I cautioned him to mind his speech, otherwise he would regret ever speaking to me in that manner. He immediately left the venue, raining abuses on me alongside Hon. Akapo, and since then, we have not had any further encounter,” he explained.
When pressed further about the allegation of improperly sharing political incentives, Gbadamosi dismissed it.
He said, “All the issues raised here are untrue and stem from hatred by some unidentified elements.”
And on the accusation that the council is already divided into factions under his watch, he said, “Might be personal to them. I am the Leader of the Legislative Council comprising 16 councillors, including myself. I am not aware of any faction. If there is, who is the factional leader? If some members claim they were attacked, let them provide evidence or eyewitnesses. Please disregard the claims of these individuals if they are not bold enough to present evidence. Thank you.”
Hon. Akapo Oladunjoye, however, maintained that the story of a brawl was true and went further to accuse Gbadamosi of dictatorial leadership.
“The story that prompted ur [sic] questions were the true picture of what transpared [sic] at the event. Thanks,” he told newsheadline247.
In a phone call, Oladujoye expanded, “The house has been divided into two factions just weeks after its inception. Gbadamosi is not leading the house but instead rules the house like an emperor. He refuses to carry other principal officers along in decision-making.”
According to Oladunjoye, Gbadamosi’s faction—made up of councillors from Ilogbo, Ota 1, Ota 2, Ijoko, Ejila Awori, Ketu, Atan, and Ado-Odo 2—has sidelined the opposing bloc of councillors from Ado 1, Agbara, Igbesa, Ere, Ota 3, Sango, Iju, and Alapoti.
He further disclosed that, “When Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi donated N800,000 and 8 bags of rice as gifts for the 16 councillors, Gbadamosi and his faction shared everything among themselves, excluding the other group. He threatens colleagues with the disciplinary committee whenever they oppose him or question his decision. Sometimes, he even invites outsiders to intimidate councillors during sessions.”
Oladunjoye also accused the legislative leader of poor relations with civil servants in the chamber and revealed that “Gbadamosi once pushed for a vote of no confidence against the council chairman, Hon. Wasiu Lawal.”
Wasiu Lawal, Executive Chairman Ado-Odo/Ota LG
However, when newsheadline247 reached out to both Hon. Joel Okeodebija and Hon. Akapo Oladunjoye for comments on the incident, only Oladunjoye responded, while Okeodebija remained silent as at the time of filing this report.
Hon. Councillor Joel Okeodebija, Representing
A Council at War
The unfolding drama paints a picture of a legislative house at war, divided by allegations of greed, authoritarianism, and mistrust.
While Gbadamosi insists there are “no factions” and describes the accusations as baseless, councillors like Oladunjoye are adamant that the council is fractured down the middle.
For now, the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government 9th Legislative Council, barely months into its tenure, appears to be on shaky ground, with the leadership crisis threatening to derail its legislative responsibilities.
Editorial Analysis
The crisis rocking the Ado-Odo/Ota Legislative Council offers a troubling glimpse into the fragile nature of Nigeria’s grassroots governance. What began as a squabble over cash gifts and party incentives has spiralled into accusations of dictatorship, intimidation, and mismanagement, undermining public confidence in local government institutions.
At its core, the debacle reflects a wider malaise in Nigerian politics where personal interests, patronage, and access to largesse often take precedence over public service. Instead of legislative debates on policy and development, the council chambers appear consumed by fights over “who gets what.”
The fact that the controversy emerged so early in the council’s tenure is particularly worrying. If left unresolved, the crisis may paralyze the chamber’s ability to deliver on its mandate to the people of Ado-Odo/Ota.
For the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), this episode may also signal cracks within the party’s grassroots base, where the distribution of patronage continues to fuel factionalism. Unless reconciliatory efforts are urgently undertaken, the legislative council risks becoming more of a political battlefield than a vehicle for local development.
In the end, the scandal underscores a pressing truth: without transparency, inclusiveness, and a genuine focus on governance, local councils will remain prone to infighting and instability, leaving ordinary citizens as the ultimate losers. Read More
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) revealed that Air Peace pilots involved in the July 13 Port Harcourt runway overrun tested positive for alcohol, while a flight attendant tested positive for cannabis. No injuries were reported, but regulators warn of grave safety lapses
Air Peace Pilots Tested Positive for Alcohol After Port Harcourt Runway Overrun, NSIB Reveals
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released a damning report on the July 13 incident involving an Air Peace Boeing 737-500 that overran the runway at Port Harcourt International Airport.
The aircraft, carrying 96 passengers and seven crew members from Lagos, touched down nearly three-quarters of the way down the 3,000-metre runway, leaving insufficient distance to stop safely. It eventually came to a halt on the grass verge. Fortunately, all passengers and crew disembarked without injury.
The NSIB’s findings shocked many in the aviation sector. Both pilots tested positive for alcohol after the incident, while a flight attendant tested positive for cannabis.
The Bureau described this as a “grave breach of discipline, professionalism, and safety culture” within the airline.
Beyond substance use, investigators also identified critical lapses in cockpit dynamics. The 64-year-old captain, a veteran with more than 10,000 flight hours, overruled the first officer’s call for a go-around when the jet approached too high at the runway threshold.
Safety experts say such cockpit authority gaps can undermine decision-making during critical phases of flight.
In its recommendations, the NSIB directed Air Peace to tighten crew fitness checks, enforce stricter alcohol and drug screening, and reinforce training on go-around procedures.
The Bureau emphasized that abandoning an unstable approach is a vital safeguard and that regulators would hold airlines accountable for ensuring their crews meet the highest professional standards.
Though no lives were lost, the report underscores the dangers of substance use in aviation.
Regulators concluded that, “Aviation demands absolute discipline. Alcohol, drugs, and flying are a deadly mix.”Read More
