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‘Revoke Okanlomo of Yorubaland Title On Dotun Sanusi Now’ – Alaafin Owoade Tells Ooni Ogunwusi, Says Conferment is “Unlawful”

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Oba Owoade described the conferment as an overreach, stressing that only the Alaafin holds the traditional authority to bestow titles covering the entirety of Yorubaland

‘Revoke Okanlomo of Yorubaland Title On Dotun Sanusi Now’ – Alaafin Owoade Tells Ooni Ogunwusi, Says Conferment is “Unlawful”

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, on Monday strongly criticised the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, for conferring the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Ibadan businessman Dotun Sanusi.

The Ooni had bestowed the title on Sanusi at the weekend during the unveiling of 2geda, an indigenous social media and business networking platform, held at Ilaji Hotel, Ibadan. While presenting the honour, Oba Ogunwusi praised Sanusi’s “unparalleled commitment to the cultural and economic growth of the Yoruba race.”

But in a statement issued through his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, Oba Owoade described the conferment as an overreach, stressing that only the Alaafin holds the traditional authority to bestow titles covering the entirety of Yorubaland. He gave the Ooni 48 hours to revoke the title or “face the consequences.”

“The attention of the Alaafin of Oyo and the Titan of Yorubaland, Oba Engineer Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has been drawn to the purported conferment of the chieftaincy title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on a business tycoon, Dotun Sanusi, by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi,” the statement read.

“The Ooni of Ife is behaving as if there is no authority to check and call him to order. Because of that ‘above-the-law’ syndrome of his, he is in the habit of walking on everybody’s back, including the apex court in the country, the Supreme Court, which had ruled on the exclusive preserve of the Alaafin to confer any chieftaincy title that covers the entire Yorubaland.”

Oba Owoade, however, stressed his commitment to peace, recalling his earlier appeals for unity among Yoruba monarchs.

“It is the joy of our forefathers for us to be in unity, and they did their part in ensuring peace and unity in Yorubaland. We must also strive to achieve this. God Himself is involved in our matter; therefore, we must always, at all times, be concerned about the peace and unity of Yorubaland. We say we want development, but no meaningful and sustainable development will come without peace and unity.

“But it seems the Ooni of Ife is misconceiving the Alaafin, Paramount with the Heart of Gold, and his peace initiative as a sign of weakness, hence taking decisions that are not only ultra vires but derogatory to the Titan of Yorubaland.”

The Ooni’s Palace is yet to make an official statement on this development as of press time. Read More

Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman Urges Massive Voter Registration as INEC Opens PVC Portal

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The council chairman stressed that active participation in the exercise would not only strengthen democracy but also position Ado-Odo/Ota as a shining example in Ogun State

Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman Urges Massive Voter Registration as INEC Opens PVC Portal

The Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, FCA, has called on residents of the council area to take full advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise, describing it as a civic duty and a powerful tool for shaping the future of Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 18, 2025, Hon. Wasiu announced that the online registration for the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) had officially commenced. He urged eligible residents—particularly those who have just turned 18, relocated, or never registered before—to act promptly.

“Your Voter’s Card is your power, your voice, and your right to decide the future of our dear local government, Ogun State, and Nigeria at large,” he declared.

The council chairman stressed that active participation in the exercise would not only strengthen democracy but also position Ado-Odo/Ota as a shining example in Ogun State.

“I therefore encourage everyone who has just attained the age of 18, those who have changed location, and those who have not registered before, to quickly take advantage of this opportunity and get registered,” he said.

Hon. Wasiu also warned against last-minute rushes, urging residents to begin the process immediately to avoid unnecessary delays.

“Democracy thrives when we participate. Do not wait until the last minute. Let us show good example in Ado-Odo/Ota by turning out massively to register and later collect our PVCs,” he added.

The chairman concluded by reaffirming his belief in the power of collective action, “Together, we can build the future we desire through active participation,” he said.

OGD: The People’s Senator Who Never Left The Grassroots | By Lukman Omikunle

Whether as governor or senator, his compass has remained the same—bringing governance closer to the people and ensuring their voices are not just heard but acted upon

OGD: The People’s Senator Who Never Left The Grassroots | By Lukman Omikunle

What manner of man is Otunba Gbenga Daniel? To his admirers, he is more than a politician—he is a phenomenon in grassroots leadership, a rare breed in Nigerian politics whose style of governance and representation has left an indelible mark on Ogun State and beyond.

From 2003 to 2011, as Governor of Ogun State, Daniel redefined what it meant to be a “listening leader.” Unlike the distant approach common in political circles, OGD flung open the doors of governance, literally making himself available to the people he served. He took the bold step of sharing his direct line with the public, encouraging feedback, complaints, and suggestions—a practice that endeared him to ordinary citizens and one that has remained unmatched since his exit from the governor’s office.

His governance style was people-centered, ensuring that the voices from the grassroots dictated policy directions. Farmers, artisans, traders, and civil servants alike found a leader who was accessible, approachable, and responsive to their needs. It is no wonder that even today, Ogun State civil servants speak of him with eternal encomium.

But OGD’s legacy is not only about accessibility. His administration was marked by landmark achievements that reshaped Ogun’s political and economic landscape. He pioneered industrial hubs, opened free trade zones, and conceptualized the now-celebrated Gateway International Cargo Airport.

Senator Daniel’s housing schemes birthed new towns, while his infrastructure drive attracted businesses that placed Ogun State firmly on Nigeria’s investment map. These firsts made Ogun politics vibrant and attractive, setting a standard for leadership in the State and beyond.

Senator Gbenga Daniel

Now, as Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Daniel has not abandoned his grassroots ethos. He remains the quintessential man of the people—still listening, still resolving issues, still fighting for the welfare of his constituents. His Senate office, much like his days in Oke-Mosan, is never closed to the people. In OGD, the masses find a rare figure – a politician who did not rise above them but rather rose with them.

Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s political life can be summed up in one phrase – service with humanity.

Whether as governor or senator, his compass has remained the same—bringing governance closer to the people and ensuring their voices are not just heard but acted upon. Read More

Dangote Truck not responsible for Auchi Accident, says Eyewitness

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Dangote Truck not responsible for Auchi Accident, says Eyewitness

Dangote Cement truck did not cause the tragic accident, which occurred on the Auchi-Okpella-Okene road, near Omega Fire Ministry in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, contrary to online reports.

An eyewitness, Audu Omale, who gave a vivid account of the accident, recalled that “a third-party truck loaded with cement was moving in the opposite direction of the Dangote Cement (DCT) CNG truck on a slopy road. The commercial truck driver lost control of his truck due to a suspected brake failure, ran into a moving vehicle, a motorcycle and eventually crashed into the side of the DCT truck. The DCT CNG truck caught fire in the process.

“Consequently, three persons from the vehicle hit by the third-party truck lost their lives while two persons sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. The DCT truck driver escaped to avoid mob attack,” Omale clarified.

In a related development, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed that the accident involved two trucks, one belonging to Dangote Cement, another truck, which has not been identified, and a GLK Mercedes Benz car.

The Edo PPRO noted that all the three occupants in the GLK were confirmed dead in the hospital while the Dangote truck caught fire which was brought under control.

“I can confirm to you that three vehicles were involved in an accident in Auchi at midday, two trucks and one GLK Benz. The police moved to the scene of the accident and evacuated three occupants of the GLK to the hospital where they were confirmed dead.

“Two of the vehicles involved were trucks, one belonging to Dangote Cement and another unidentified one. The Dangote truck caught fire and was brought under control,” Yamu stated. He added that investigation was ongoing.

Isese Day 2025: Lagos, Ogun Declare August 20 Public Holiday for Celebration

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The holiday continues to symbolise government recognition of the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people

Isese Day 2025: Lagos, Ogun Declare August 20 Public Holiday for Celebration

The governments of Lagos and Ogun States have officially declared Wednesday, August 20, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the annual Isese Day celebration.

Isese Day, dedicated to promoting and preserving Yoruba traditional religion and culture, was first recognised as a public holiday in 2023 after both states’ Houses of Assembly passed motions endorsing the observance. The declaration was subsequently approved by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.

The holiday continues to symbolise government recognition of the cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and offers adherents of traditional faiths an opportunity to celebrate their beliefs with pride and visibility. Read More

Smart DNA Report: 1 in 4 Nigerian men tested are not biological fathers

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The new data also showed that most tests are quiet, personal, and not legally driven.The vast majority of tests were conducted for “peace of mind”

Smart DNA Report: 1 in 4 Nigerian men tested are not biological fathers

A new report from Smart DNA, Nigeria’s leading DNA testing centre, has revealed that one in every four Nigerian men who undergo paternity testing is not the biological father of the child in question, a statistic that continues to send shockwaves through the country’s evolving family landscape.

The company’s 2025 Annual DNA Testing Report, which covers the period from July 2024 to June 2025, offers a sobering reflection on the intersections of trust, family, migration, and modern science in Nigeria.

Despite a slight decrease from 27% in 2024 to 25% in 2025, the high rate of paternity exclusion remains disturbingly consistent, sustaining what experts are now calling a quiet but growing social crisis. 

“These findings are not just about science; they speak volumes about trust, relationships, and the economic and emotional realities of Nigerian families today,” Elizabeth Digia, Operations Manager at Smart DNA Nigeria said. 

One of the most jarring revelations in this year’s report is the disproportionate rate of paternity rejection among firstborn sons.

A staggering 64% of firstborn males tested were found to have no biological relation to their presumed fathers, making them the most likely group to return negative results. 

This figure dwarfs the rates seen in later-born children, painting a complex psychological and social picture.

Firstborn daughters also showed higher-than-average rejection rates, though not as dramatically as sons. This trend may hint at an unspoken cultural phenomenon where early relationships, pre-marital pregnancies, or strategic partner selection are factors at play. It also raises pointed questions about how fatherhood is initially claimed and socially accepted, especially in patriarchal societies where male lineage is often tied to legacy, inheritance, and family name continuity.

Beyond family drama, Nigeria’s current mass emigration movement—popularly dubbed the “Japa” wave—has triggered a 13.1% surge in immigration-related DNA testing, according to the report. This marks a historic increase in testing for visa applications, dual-citizenship verifications, and family reunification abroad. With growing numbers of Nigerian families preparing for or adjusting to life in the diaspora, many are turning to DNA services to legally validate familial ties—especially when processing foreign documentation for minors. “DNA testing is now a gateway not just to truth, but to opportunity,” Digia noted. “We’re seeing parents use this as a safeguard—essentially, a form of biological passport for their children.”

Men remain overwhelmingly at the center of the paternity inquiry ecosystem, accounting for 88.2% of all test initiations. This near-monopoly on demand reflects a society where women are often excluded from questioning lineage, and men shoulder both the emotional and financial consequences of uncertainty. Notably, older men (aged 41 and above) were the most frequent clients, initiating 45.5% of all tests, suggesting that financial stability may empower them to finally confront long-held suspicions. At the same time, the majority of children tested (58.6%) were under the age of five—indicating that in many cases, doubts arise early and parents are acting quickly to establish the truth. The gender of the child also appears to matter: 53.8% of those tested were male, highlighting an enduring bias toward confirming male lineage. This may be rooted in traditional views that prioritize the male child in matters of succession and family identity.

While Lagos continues to lead in testing volume with 69% of all samples, its internal landscape is shifting. The Mainland-to-Island balance has tilted, with Island locations like Lekki and Ajah seeing increased testing activity—likely reflecting the upward mobility of Lagos residents and the growing influence of the Island’s more affluent communities. Top testing locations included Lekki (20.3%), Yaba (15.8%), Ajah and Ikorodu (10.5% each), and Surulere and Ikeja (9% each).

Ethnic representation within the data offers another layer of complexity. Yoruba clients made up 53% of all testing cases, followed by Igbo clients at 31.3%. Surprisingly, Hausa participation remains minimal at 1.2%, despite their significant population nationally. This disparity may reflect cultural taboos, religious sensitivities, or lower awareness and acceptance of DNA testing in Northern Nigeria.

The new data also showed that most tests are quiet, personal – and not legally driven. This means that the vast majority of tests—83.7%—were conducted for “peace of mind” rather than legal proceedings. This confirms a hidden but widespread culture of suspicion and silent inquiry into family truths. Court-mandated tests, by contrast, made up only 1.4% of cases. Equally telling is that 80% of tests involved only one child, suggesting most clients are focused on a single case of doubt, rather than conducting a blanket investigation across all children. This speaks to the specificity—and often the secrecy—surrounding these tests.

Despite the scale and implications of these findings, experts are worried that Nigeria still lacks legislation on paternity fraud, unlike countries such as South Africa where legal protections exist for men misled about biological parenthood. The absence of clear legal recourse continues to leave thousands of men without support or restitution after years of emotional and financial investment in children they later discover are not theirs. The report recommends urgent policy reform, alongside the integration of DNA testing into family health services and public education campaigns to counter myths and normalize open paternity conversations.

The 2025 Smart DNA Nigeria Annual Report does more than quantify paternity doubts—it exposes a society in quiet upheaval, grappling with trust, evolving family dynamics, and the unforgiving truth offered by modern science. At its core, this isn’t just a health or legal issue—it is a national conversation waiting to happen. “Behind every statistic is a human story—of doubt, betrayal, clarity, or relief. Our mission is not just to deliver answers, but to handle them with the compassion and confidentiality our clients deserve,” Digia concluded. Read More

Credit: The Nations Newspaper

PRESS RELEASE Police Make Major Breakthroughs In Fight Against Gun Running, Kidnapping

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PRESS RELEASE
Police Make Major Breakthroughs In Fight Against Gun Running, Kidnapping

In a recent series of coordinated intelligence-led operations, the Nigeria Police Force has again made significant breakthroughs in its ongoing fight against kidnapping and gun running. These operations, executed by tactical units in Kaduna and Delta States, led to the arrest of eight high-profile suspects and the recovery of assorted firearms, ammunition, and fabricated weapons.

In Kaduna State, following the abduction of one Hussaini Ibrahim from Jagindi Tasha Village, Jema’a LGA, operatives of the state Police command launched a coordinated rescue operation which successfully yielded results when the abductors abandoned the victim in a nearby forest.

Follow-up investigations led to the arrest of four suspects directly connected with the abduction, named Umar Yusuf Jabiri of Jagindi Tasha, Buhari Muhammad, a.k.a. “General” of Bayya village, Ahmadu Nasiru of Gidan Waya and Zakari Saleh and the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and two (2) locally fabricated Ak-47 rifles.

In a related development, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit acting on credible intelligence intercepted a suspicious waybill from Jos, Plateau state headed for Gusua, Zamfara state.

Detailed search conducted led to the recovery of an Ak-47 rifle hidden inside a sack. Follow-up investigation on the origin of the waybill led to the arrest of two suspects, one Abdulmumin Sani and Naziru Musa who had arrived in Gusau to take delivery of the firearm from Kaduna State.

Meanwhile, in Delta State, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), supported by the X-Squad and Buffalo Patrol units, raided a kidnapping gang hideout along Ibusa Road. One Chiadiji Collins, a.k.a. “Smooth,” aged 42, a notorious suspected kidnapper linked to multiple abductions in the Ibusa, Ogwashi-Uku, and Asaba axis, was apprehended. A subsequent search of his residence in Ewulu community, Aniocha South LGA, led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and forty rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

Further investigations led to the arrest of a second suspect, Ezechie Andrew, who was found in possession of two pump-action guns and two live cartridges.

All suspects are currently assisting the Police in series of investigations to apprehend other members of their gangs. The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of all investigations.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun Ph.D, NPM commended the tactical precision, professionalism, and bravery of the operatives involved in these successful operations which are reflections of proactive intelligence gathering.

He again reaffirmed the commitment of the Force to remain ahead of criminal elements through intelligence-led policing, inter-agency collaboration, and robust community engagement. He further urged citizens to remain vigilant, provide timely information, and support the police in its efforts to combat crimes and maintain law and order.

Credit: OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, ‎FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, ‎FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ‎ABUJA – 17th August, 2025.

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APC Sweeps Bye-Elections as Coalition’s ADC Suffers Humiliating Defeat

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The outcome of the Bye-Election was a sobering reminder of the steep challenge ahead in ADC’s mission to unseat the APC in 2027

APC Sweeps Bye-Elections as Coalition’s ADC Suffers Humiliating Defeat

The much-anticipated test of strength for Nigeria’s opposition coalition ended in disappointment on Saturday, as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) — the adopted platform of coalition leaders — failed to win a single seat in the nationwide re-run and bye-elections.

Despite heavy backing from key political figures, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, the ADC struggled across the 12 states where polls were held.

Ahead of the elections, the Interim National Chairman of ADC, Senator David Mark, had passionately appealed for support, urging Nigerians to rally behind the party. “We call on eligible voters to throw their weight behind our candidates for all the vacant seats,” Mark said in a pre-election statement.

The coalition saw the elections as a litmus test of their popularity as they gear up to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. But results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) painted a different picture.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a dominant victory, winning 12 seats. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) managed to snatch one seat each, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) claimed two.

ADC, however, ended the exercise without a single win, trailing far behind with what observers described as “remarkably low votes.”

The vacant seats contested included the Edo Central Senatorial District, Anambra South Senatorial District, Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Onitsha North I State Constituency, and Bagwai-Shanono Constituency — all of which were captured by APC, PDP, APGA, and NNPP candidates.

For many within the coalition, the outcome was a sobering reminder of the steep challenge ahead in their mission to unseat the APC in 2027. Read More

Zenith Bank Marks 35 Years of Excellence, Rolls Out Red Carpet of Honours for Loyal Customers, Staff

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Zenith Bank has grown from humble beginnings into one of Africa’s leading financial institutions

Zenith Bank Marks 35 Years of Excellence, Rolls Out Red Carpet of Honours for Loyal Customers, Staff

Amidst pomp and pageantry layered with a mixture of glitz and glamour, Zenith Bank Plc marked its 35th year anniversary with a commemorative Chairman’s Dinner at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos on Friday, August 15, 2025. 

In recognition of their immense contributions to the success of the brand, the bank also presented commemorative awards and plaques to pioneer customers and long-serving staff, who have served meritoriously for 25 years and above. 

The ceremony brought together key stakeholders of the bank including customers, staff (past and present), regulators, partners, and friends, who all came together to celebrate 35 years of excellent and innovative banking services that has propelled the banking giant to the peak of Nigeria’s financial industry. 

Among the eminent personalities who graced the occasion were the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shetima, GCON; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas; Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum; Governor of Delta, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who was ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir. Monday Onyeme; Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; and former governors Peter Obi and Udom Emmanuel (also an alumnus of Zenith Bank).

L-R: Representative of the Nigerian First Lady and Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Chief of Staff to Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo; Group Managing Director/CEO, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Wife of the Founder & Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Mrs. Kay Ovia; Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON; Founder & Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR; Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum; Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi; Chairman of Access Holding Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR; Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; and the Publisher of Thisday Newspaper, Prince Nduka Obaigbena at the Zenith Bank 35th Anniversary and Chairman’s Dinner held at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, at the weekend.

In her welcome address, the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON applauded the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR for his foundational role in building the structures for what has today become a shining example of excellence in the Nigerian banking industry and a globally recognised financial institution. She described him as “the Godfather of modern banking and the Nostradamus of our time, who through sheer tenacity, foresight, and uncompromising integrity transformed a modest vision into the financial powerhouse we celebrate today”.

In his goodwill message, the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shetima, GCON, a proud alumnus of the bank, praised the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR for being at the heart of the very successful brand that today stands as Nigeria’s largest bank by Tier-One capital. According to him, “Long before technology became the bloodstream of global finance, Jim Ovia had already woven it into the DNA of Nigerian banking industry. He introduced innovation not as a fashion but as a philosophy, placing Zenith Bank on a path where excellence is not an ambition but a standard. Yet his true signature is not only on the balance sheet. For Jim Ovia, the people make an institution. His greatest investment has been in human capital – in transferring his experience and sense of adventure to generation after generation of bankers and investors forged at Zenith Bank”.

Also speaking at the event, the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia, CFR expressed its immense appreciation to all guests for joining the bank in celebrating this momentous occasion. He thanked the bank’s esteemed customers and shareholders for their trust, confidence and shared vision; the regulators, for their guidance over the years; his friends and partners, for being a constant source of strength; the Zenith Bank family led by the exceptional Group Managing Diector/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, for their loyalty and commitment; and his beloved wife and family for their love and support.

Founded in May 1990, Zenith Bank has grown from humble beginnings into one of Africa’s leading financial institutions with branches across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT, Abuja as well as subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, France, UAE and a representative office in China. Read More

Ovia Bye-Election: After Victory, Omosede Igbinedion Promises to Listen, Serve, Deliver

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House of Representatives-elect, Barr. Omosede Igbinedion, pledges to listen, serve, and deliver after winning the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election, dedicating her victory to women, youths, and the people of Ovia

Ovia Bye-Election: After Victory, Omosede Igbinedion Promises to Listen, Serve, Deliver

House of Representatives-elect for Ovia Federal Constituency, Barr. Omosede Igbinedion, has pledged to fulfill her campaign promises with transparency, compassion, and renewed dedication to her people.

Igbinedion, who won last Saturday’s by-election with a wide margin, described her triumph as a collective mandate from the people of Ovia.

“This victory is not mine alone. It is a shared triumph for every son and daughter of Ovia as well as a powerful affirmation of our collective resolve for progress and representation,” she said.

The newly elected lawmaker expressed gratitude to the electorate for their trust and assured them of quality representation. “With your continued support, I pledge to be a true representative, one who listens, serves, and delivers,” she vowed.

Igbinedion also thanked Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and his deputy, Dr. Dennis Idahosa, for their support during the campaigns. “I am especially grateful to the Deputy Governor for his active role in leading party leaders, stakeholders, and loyal supporters across the 23 wards of our constituency,” she added.

She noted that the victory holds special significance for women and youths. “It serves as a bold reminder that our voices matter and that we belong at the table where decisions are made. I stand as a symbol of what is possible when we dare to dream and rise above barriers. To every young girl looking up and every young person seeking purpose, this is your moment too. Together, we will build an Ovia that works for all, especially for the next generation,” Igbinedion declared.