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APC Moves to Pick Hamzat, Yayi, Alli as Consensus Gov Candidates Ahead of 2027 Polls

Staff Reporter
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APC Moves to Pick Hamzat, Yayi, Alli as Consensus Gov Candidates Ahead of 2027 Polls

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is weighing a consensus arrangement to select key governorship candidates in Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Top among those being considered is Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, who is reportedly favoured to emerge as the party’s candidate in Lagos.

Similarly, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, is being positioned for Ogun State, while Senator Sharafadeen Alli is said to enjoy backing for the Oyo governorship ticket.

The developments reportedly followed a high-level meeting between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, and APC stakeholders in Lagos during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

Sources familiar with the meeting disclosed that extensive deliberations were held on party strategy and candidate selection, particularly for South-West states where governorship elections are due in 2027.

According to the Independent National Electoral Commission timetable, presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are slated for February 6, 2027. Party primaries are expected between April and May 2026.

Insiders revealed that the APC is leaning towards consensus candidacy, a strategy the party has historically adopted to reduce internal conflict and strengthen electoral chances.

However, the move is not without resistance.

In Lagos, several aspirants, including Femi Gbajabiamila and Akinwunmi Ambode, are reportedly eyeing the ticket, while Minister of Education Tunji Alausa is also lobbying for consideration.

In Ogun State, the reported endorsement of Adeola is said to conflict with the preference of Governor Dapo Abiodun, who is believed to favour another contender, highlighting internal divisions within the party.

Meanwhile, in Oyo State, Alli’s candidacy appears to have gained broader acceptance among party stakeholders, amid concerns over the electability of Minister of Power Bayo Adelabu.

Despite the emerging alignments, party insiders say efforts are ongoing to manage dissenting voices through negotiations and possible compensations for affected aspirants.

The consensus approach has also reignited debate among political analysts and stakeholders, with critics warning that it could amount to imposition rather than genuine agreement.

The President of the Nigerian Political Science Association, Hassan Saliu, cautioned that consensus must be voluntary to uphold democratic principles.

Similarly, the Coalition of United Political Parties criticised what it described as a culture of imposed candidacies within Nigerian political parties.

As consultations continue ahead of the APC national convention, the party faces the challenge of balancing internal democracy with political strategy in its quest to retain dominance in the South-West.

OGD at 70 Table Tennis Tournament Final Holds April 4 in Ijebu-Ode

Lukman Omikunle
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OGD at 70 Table Tennis Tournament Final Holds April 4 in Ijebu-Ode

OGD at 70 Table Tennis Tournament final holds April 4, 2026, in Ijebu-Ode as Gbenga Daniel promotes youth talent, para-sports and grassroots sports development in Ogun State

Conference Hotel in Ijebu-Ode

OGD at 70 Table Tennis Tournament: Final Showdown Holds April 4 in Ijebu-Ode

In a celebration that blends legacy with impact, former Ogun State governor and current senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, is marking his 70th birthday with a high-energy table tennis tournament designed to spotlight grassroots talent and promote healthy living.

Driven by the enduring maxim that a healthy body nurtures a sound mind, the “OGD at 70 Table Tennis Tournament” has drawn enthusiastic participation from young players, para-athletes and seasoned veterans across Ogun State. The competition now reaches its climax with a much-anticipated grand finale set for April 4, 2026, at the Obalofin Hall of the Conference Hotel in Ijebu-Ode.

The final promises a rich mix of intensity and inspiration. Youth players will battle for supremacy among their peers, para-athletes will square off against elite paralympic professionals in a contest of resilience and skill, while the veterans’ category adds a symbolic highlight as it culminates in a friendly but competitive face-off with the celebrant himself.

Speaking ahead of the event, Daniel described the tournament as more than a ceremonial activity, framing it as a strategic investment in youth development and social inclusion. “This is not just about celebrating a birthday; it is about creating opportunity,” he said. “Sport has the power to shape character, open doors and unite communities. Through this initiative, we are identifying talents, inspiring discipline and giving young people a platform to dream bigger.”

He further emphasised the accessibility of table tennis as a tool for empowerment. “Table tennis is one of the most inclusive sports—it requires minimal resources but offers maximum impact. If we nurture these talents from the grassroots, we can raise champions who will make Ogun State and Nigeria proud on the global stage,” he added.

Beyond the competition, participants and spectators will be treated to an engaging closing ceremony featuring goodwill messages and the presentation of awards, alongside a range of consolation prizes aimed at encouraging wider participation and sustaining interest in the sport.

As excitement builds toward the finale, the OGD at 70 tournament stands as a compelling reminder that milestone celebrations can go beyond pomp—serving instead as catalysts for youth empowerment, community engagement and the discovery of tomorrow’s champions. Read More

2027: Ex-Ogun Lawmaker Akinpelu Aina Declares for Senate, Backs Tinubu Re-election, Praises Yayi’s Legacy

Lukman Omikunle
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2027: Ex-Ogun Lawmaker Akinpelu Aina Declares for Senate, Backs Tinubu Re-election, Praises Yayi’s Legacy

Former Ogun lawmaker Akinpelu Nurudeen Aina declares for Ogun West Senate seat in 2027 under APC, pledges to sustain Yayi’s legacy and backs Tinubu’s reforms.

Chief Nurudeen Aina with Wife, Alhaja Morenikeji Aina

Why Aina Wants to Succeed Senator Yayi in Ogun West — And His 2027 Game Plan

By Lukman OMIKUNLE

A former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Baamofin Akinpelu Nurudeen Aina, has formally declared his intention to contest for the Ogun West Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Aina made the declaration at a well-attended ward meeting held at St. James Anglican Primary School, Ota, where party faithful, grassroots mobilisers, and supporters gathered in large numbers to witness the announcement.

In his opening remarks, Aina paid glowing tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, applauding what he described as “bold and transformative leadership” within the first two years of the administration.

He urged Nigerians to support the continuity of ongoing reforms by re-electing the president in 2027.

“The reforms we are witnessing today require consistency and courage. President Tinubu has shown both. For Nigeria to fully reap the benefits, we must stay the course,” Aina said.

He also acknowledged the contributions of Vice President Kashim Shettima and commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, his deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and the incumbent Ogun West Senator, Solomon Adeola (Yayi), for their leadership and developmental strides.

Addressing party members with a tone of humility and resolve, the two-term lawmaker formally unveiled his senatorial ambition.

“With deep humility and a strong sense of responsibility, I stand before you today to seek your support and blessings as I declare my intention to contest for the Senate seat representing Ogun West,” he said.

“I Hon. Chief Akinpelu Nurudeen Aina, your son, your brother, your servant and your partner in progress. Together, we have built trust before, and I am here to build on that foundation.”

His declaration was met with chants of support from the crowd, many of whom recalled his performance during his time representing Ota State Constituency.

Aina emphasized that his ambition is rooted in continuity, pledging to sustain and expand the standard of representation set by Senator Adeola.

“Ogun West has witnessed what quality representation looks like under Senator Adeola. That legacy must not only be preserved but strengthened,” he said.

“I am stepping forward to continue that good work and take it even further, ensuring every community in our district feels the impact of effective representation.”

He highlighted the importance of inclusiveness, noting that all five local governments in the senatorial district—Ado-Odo/Ota, Yewa South, Yewa North, Ipokia, and Imeko-Afon—would receive equal attention.

The declaration also drew strong backing from political groups and stakeholders.

Prince Boluwatife Adeyanju, convener of the “Adeyanju 4 BAA 2027” movement, described Aina as a capable and people-focused leader.

Prince Boluwatife Adeyanju, convener of the “Adeyanju 4 BAA 2027”

“This support is not about personal loyalty; it is about competence,” Adeyanju said.
“Aina has consistently demonstrated a passion for service, humility in leadership, and the capacity to deliver results. Ogun West deserves nothing less.”

He further described Aina as “the most qualified among the emerging aspirants,” citing his legislative experience and grassroots connection.

Chairman of Ota Ward 1, Nurudeen Adekunle, also threw his weight behind Aina’s aspiration, declaring the ward’s full support.

Hon Nurudeen Aina with Chairman of Ota Ward 1, Mr. Nurudeen Adekunle

“This is beyond politics of origin. We are supporting Aina because of his proven track record and his connection to the people,” he said.

“From what we have seen, he understands the needs of the grassroots and has the capacity to represent Ogun West effectively at the national level.”

The event also saw the presence and recognition of several political stakeholders across Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government and beyond.

Aina extended goodwill messages to federal and state lawmakers, local government officials, and party leaders, reinforcing his commitment to unity within the APC as preparations for 2027 gather momentum.

With his official declaration, Aina joins the growing list of aspirants eyeing the Ogun West Senatorial seat, setting the stage for what is expected to be a competitive political contest.

However, his entry, strong grassroots backing, and emphasis on continuity may position him as a formidable contender in the race. Read More

Gunshots, Chaos as APC, Accord Supporters Clash During Voter Registration in Osun

Staff Reporter
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Gunshots, Chaos as APC, Accord Supporters Clash During Voter Registration in Osun

No fewer than two persons sustained injuries on Monday after a violent clash broke out between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party in Ilesa West Local Government Area of Osun State.

The incident occurred in the Isida area of Ilesa during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

Eyewitnesses said the confrontation began shortly after INEC officials arrived at Ward 8 around midday. A resident, identified simply as Segun, explained that APC supporters were already at the venue when members of the Accord Party mobilised to the area, triggering tension that quickly escalated into violence.

According to him, multiple gunshots rang out across Isida and nearby Ita-Akogun, causing panic among residents and forcing traders to hurriedly shut their businesses.

Sources said supporters from both parties allegedly fired shots in a show of force before security operatives intervened to restore calm.

Attempts to reach the Accord Party chairman, Victor Akande, and APC Media Director, Kola Olabisi, for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent to them were not returned as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, INEC spokesperson, Musa Olurode, confirmed the incident, adding that the commission had convened a stakeholders’ meeting to decide the next line of action.
He, however, noted that no INEC official was harmed during the clash.

KieKie Reveals Strategy for Fame Without Oversharing, Keeps Husband Off Social Media

Staff Reporter
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KieKie Reveals Strategy for Fame Without Oversharing, Keeps Husband Off Social Media

Nigerian media personality Oluwabukunmi Adeaga Ilori, popularly known as KieKie, has shared insights into how she successfully balances public visibility with personal privacy in the digital space.

Speaking at The Creative Blueprint event hosted by actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele, KieKie said she has deliberately drawn a firm boundary between her personal identity and her public brand.

“I’ve created a very thick line between what is personal to me as Oluwabukunmi Adeaga Ilori and what is personal to my brand as KieKie,” she explained.

The content creator noted that her work is built around comedy, hosting, and entertainment, and she is intentional about only sharing content that aligns with those brand elements.

Highlighting her approach to privacy, KieKie revealed that she keeps her husband away from public content, joking that he does not fit into her comedic brand.

“They say, ‘Why is she hiding her husband?’ But he’s not even funny. So why should he be in my content?” she said.

However, her daughter, Nola, occasionally appears in her videos, as KieKie believes the child has a natural inclination for the spotlight.

She clarified that her daughter’s participation is controlled and limited to school holidays.
“You’ll see her at some point, and at some point you won’t. If she’s not on holiday, she’s not making content,” she said.

KieKie also used the platform to caution fellow creators against over-relying on viral moments, warning that excessive repetition can lead to audience fatigue.

“Sometimes when we have viral moments, we overmilk it until it becomes annoying,” she said, urging creators to prioritise originality over replication.

She concluded by encouraging creatives to see viral success as motivation to innovate rather than repeat past ideas.

“When something goes viral, it’s a reminder to do more because where that came from, there’s more,” she added.

US–Iran Rift Deepens as Tehran Denies Talks Trump Calls ‘Productive’

Staff Reporter
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US–Iran Rift Deepens as Tehran Denies Talks Trump Calls ‘Productive’

A sharp diplomatic rift has emerged between the United States and Iran, following conflicting claims over the existence of negotiations between the two nations.

While U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that both sides had engaged in “very good and productive conversations,” Iranian state media has categorically denied that any form of dialogue direct or indirect has taken place.

Trump, writing on his Truth Social platform early Monday, said discussions over the past two days were aimed at achieving “a complete and total resolution” of hostilities in the Middle East. He further disclosed that he had paused planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure as a result of the alleged progress, signalling what appeared to be a potential diplomatic breakthrough.

However, Iran’s state broadcaster, Press TV, quickly dismissed the claim. Citing a senior Iranian security official, the outlet reported that no negotiations had occurred and described Trump’s statements as misleading.

According to the official, the U.S. president had instead withdrawn an earlier offer for talks due to Iran’s credible military posture and increasing economic pressure on Western nations.

“Negotiations are not happening, and psychological warfare will not restore stability to the Strait of Hormuz or global energy markets,” the official said, rejecting suggestions of any diplomatic engagement.

The official also referenced a reported five-day ultimatum issued by Trump, interpreting it as evidence of continued plans for potential military action plans Iran says it is prepared to counter with a full-scale defensive response.

The starkly opposing narratives have heightened uncertainty over the true state of U.S.–Iran relations, leaving global observers and energy markets grappling with mixed signals on whether de-escalation is within reach or tensions are set to intensify further.

Okunnu Laments Fuel Price Hike, Questions Nigerians’ Role in Economic Hardship

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Okunnu Laments Fuel Price Hike, Questions Nigerians’ Role in Economic Hardship

Popular Nollywood actor Wale Akorede, widely known as Okunnu, has voiced strong concern over the latest increase in fuel prices across Nigeria, sparking fresh debate about the country’s worsening cost of living crisis.

In a video shared on his Instagram page, the comic actor reacted to the sudden jump in petrol prices, which rose from ₦1,240 to ₦1,340 per litre within 24 hours.

Expressing frustration, Okunnu questioned whether the government or Nigerians themselves should be held accountable for the persistent economic hardship.

“Yesterday, petrol was ₦1,240 per litre, and today it is ₦1,340. Is it the government that increased it or we Nigerians?” he asked.

The actor further pointed to the irony of Nigeria being a major oil-producing nation while citizens continue to grapple with high fuel costs. According to him, countries with similar resources often maintain more affordable pricing for their citizens.

“We have our own crude oil, so why is fuel expensive? Other countries produce fuel too, yet theirs is cheaper,” he said.

Okunnu also highlighted the ripple effect of the price hike on vulnerable groups, particularly low-income earners such as commercial motorcyclists, warning that the increase would inevitably drive up the cost of goods and services.

He stressed that many Nigerians already struggle to meet basic needs, adding that the latest surge in petrol prices could further deepen economic hardship across the country.

UN Envoy-Designate Jimoh Ibrahim Hails Tinubu’s UK Visit as ‘Strategic Diplomatic Masterstroke’

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UN Envoy-Designate Jimoh Ibrahim Hails Tinubu’s UK Visit as ‘Strategic Diplomatic Masterstroke’

Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as a timely and strategic move in advancing Nigeria’s global interests.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Ibrahim, who represents Ondo South in the Senate, said the visit comes at a critical moment of shifting global alliances, underscoring the importance of Nigeria maintaining an active and visible presence on the international stage.

He noted that Tinubu’s engagement with King Charles III reflects the enduring historical relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, adding that the interaction is expected to deepen cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, and security.

According to Ibrahim, the President’s diplomatic outreach demonstrates a deliberate strategy to balance traditional alliances with evolving global priorities.

“President Tinubu has shown that Nigeria can engage effectively across geopolitical divides, leveraging historical ties while advancing modern national interests. His actions are precise, timely, and strategically sound,” he said.

The envoy-designate further stated that Nigeria’s current foreign policy direction aligns with the core principles of the United Nations, particularly in promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.

He added that strengthened engagement with strategic partners like the United Kingdom reinforces Nigeria’s role as a stabilising force in Africa and a credible voice in global affairs.

Ibrahim emphasised that the visit goes beyond ceremonial engagements, describing it as a calculated diplomatic effort aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s international standing and achieving long-term national objectives.

Tinubu Secures French Military Deal, Rallies Governors on Security and Economic Pressures

Staff Reporter
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Tinubu Secures French Military Deal, Rallies Governors on Security and Economic Pressures

LAGOS — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that Nigeria has secured military collaboration from France to strengthen its fight against terrorism, following a high-level discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Tinubu disclosed this on Sunday during a meeting with state governors at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, shortly after returning from a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, where he marked the Eid-el-Fitr holidays.

According to the President, Nigeria is prepared to leverage its diplomatic goodwill and existing lines of credit to acquire critical military equipment and specialised training for its security forces.

“I can report that after a lengthy discussion with Emmanuel Macron, France has agreed to collaborate with us on equipment and support,” Tinubu said, adding that efforts are ongoing to secure similar partnerships with other nations.

He described insecurity as a major challenge confronting his administration, urging collective action to defeat terrorism and restore national stability.

“The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity. We must work together to achieve victory and be proud of overcoming it,” he said, stressing that insecurity remains a threat to development, progress, and prosperity.

The meeting, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, also addressed economic concerns, with Tinubu warning that tensions in the Middle East could worsen inflation and reduce purchasing power in Nigeria.

“I know the Middle East crisis will affect inflation, transportation, and food prices,” he noted, acknowledging the potential impact on citizens and labour groups.

The President commended governors for responding promptly to his invitation, describing their turnout as a demonstration of unity, commitment, and shared responsibility.
He also urged them to prioritise the welfare of vulnerable citizens, noting that more efforts are needed despite ongoing progress.

Tinubu extended condolences to Babagana Zulum over the recent Maiduguri bomb blasts, which claimed 23 lives and left over 100 injured. He directed the governor to convey the Federal Government’s sympathy to affected communities.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Tinubu pledged increased investment in modern technology, logistics, and equipment to combat terrorism and other security threats nationwide.

Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges, including insurgency by Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, banditry in the North-West and North-Central, and widespread kidnapping across the country.

France has long maintained military cooperation with West African nations, particularly in counter-terrorism operations across the Sahel region.

The President’s announcement follows his recent UK visit, where he held talks with King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and Keir Starmer, securing agreements on trade and security cooperation.

Meanwhile, Vice President Shettima recently visited victims of the Maiduguri attacks at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, assuring Nigerians of increased federal investment in security infrastructure and operational capacity to defeat terrorism.

NLC Rejects N6tr GenCos Bailout, Demands Overhaul of Nigeria’s Power Sector

Staff Reporter
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NLC Rejects N6tr GenCos Bailout, Demands Overhaul of Nigeria’s Power Sector

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the proposed N6 trillion bailout for electricity generation companies (GenCos), warning that it would only provide temporary relief to a deeply flawed power sector.

In a statement, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the persistent crisis in Nigeria’s electricity industry as a heavy burden on workers, manufacturers, and ordinary citizens, who continue to endure poor power supply despite rising costs.

Ajaero accused operators across the electricity value chain—including distribution companies (DisCos) and GenCos—of benefiting from subsidies and repeated tariff hikes while Nigerians “pay for darkness.”

“The power sector has become a perpetual millstone around the necks of Nigerian workers, while crony-capitalist allies in the DisCos and GenCos continue to feast on public resources,” he said.

Rejecting the bailout proposal, the labour union insisted that financial injections alone cannot fix systemic failures.

“We cannot continue to apply bandages to a system that is fundamentally fractured,” the NLC stated.

As part of its reform proposals, the union called for the merger of the Ministries of Power and Petroleum Resources into a single Ministry of Energy, arguing that the current separation has led to inefficiencies particularly in gas supply for thermal power generation.

According to the NLC, a unified structure would ensure accountability and eliminate the blame game between the two sectors.

“For too long, these ministries have operated in silos while the productive base of the economy suffers. A single ministry would ensure one point of responsibility to Nigerians,” the statement added.

The congress also criticised the petroleum sector for prioritising gas exports over domestic energy needs, noting that the power sector continues to struggle with inadequate supply.

On electricity pricing, the NLC demanded a review of the tariff regime, advocating a system where consumers pay based on actual service delivery rather than cost-reflective pricing.

“Nigerians should not be forced to pay for inefficiency and greed. Electricity must be priced based on service, not imposed costs,” the union said.

Reaffirming its long-standing opposition to the privatisation of the power sector, the NLC argued that the 2013 reforms have failed to deliver reliable electricity.

It urged the Federal Government to halt the proposed bailout, initiate structural reforms, and convene a national stakeholders’ summit to develop a sustainable, people-oriented roadmap for the sector.

Warning of broader economic consequences, the union said continued inefficiencies in the power sector could further weaken Nigeria’s economy if urgent action is not taken.

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