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Obele Royal Family Cries Foul Over Alleged Plot to Hijack Ikolaje Idiroko Throne

Lukman Omikunle
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Obele Royal Family Cries Foul Over Alleged Plot to Hijack Ikolaje Idiroko Throne

The Obele Royal Family of Ikolaje, Idiroko, Ogun State, has accused the Odunfa ruling house of attempting to hijack the succession process after their reign ended in 2024, insisting that tradition and law entitle them to produce the next Oniko

Obele Royal Family Insists It’s Their Turn to Produce Next Oniko of Ikolaje Idiroko Amid Succession Dispute

A fierce royal battle is brewing in Ikolaje, Idiroko, an ancient town in Ogun State’s Ipokia Local Government, as the Obele Royal Family accuses the Odunfa ruling house of attempting to hijack the succession process for the Oniko throne. The family also alleges bias by Ipokia Local Government Chairman, Hon. Johnson Avoseh Akohome, in the succession dispute.

According to the Ikolaje Chieftaincy Declaration of 1956, the stool rotates among four ruling houses—Igboku, Odunfa, Obele, and Kupolu—in strict order. With the reign of Oba John Olakunle Ojo of the Odunfa family ending in May 2025, the Obele family insists it is now their rightful turn to produce the next monarch.

But the Odunfa family is allegedly pushing to impose Sunday Adekanmbi Olayode as the new Oniko, a move the Obele family describes as illegal and a violation of tradition. “No ruling house is allowed to produce a monarch in succession. The Odunfa family knows this, yet they are trying to rewrite history,” said Adeotan Shadrack, Secretary of the Obele Royal Family.

Shadrack explained that Oba Ojo, who reigned from 1979 to 2025, ascended the throne as a descendant of the Odunfa ruling house, “The Odunfa family never contested his legitimacy then. To now claim he was from Igboku is a slap on the law, on the royal institution, and on the government of Ogun State,” Shadrack stressed.

He further alleged that the Odunfa family has already begun traditional rites to install Olayode, despite the matter being before the courts. “This attempt to impose an illegal monarch does not align with the law of the land or the spirit of equity and justice,” Shadrack said, alleging that “the kingmakers have shown bias in the ongoing dispute.”

However, tensions have risen as members of the Odunfa family are allegedly maneuvering to retain influence over the succession, despite their turn having passed. The Obele family claims government officials responsible for chieftaincy matters have ignored their protests and continued with a process that sidelines them.

Letters of complaint have been sent to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Ipokia Local Government Chairman, and even the Ogun State House of Assembly, but the family says their concerns have been disregarded.

Shadrack also accused the Odunfa family of enjoying the backing of Ipokia Local Government Chairman, Hon. Johnson Avoseh Akohome. “We have written several letters to the council, but they ignored us while holding meetings with our opponents. This is unfair not just to the Obele family, but to the people of Ikolaje,” he alleged.

Efforts to get the chairman’s response proved abortive, as calls and messages put forward to him were not answered.

In a petition obtained by newsheadline247, the Obele family points to historical precedent, noting that they have previously occupied the throne, including the reign of Oba  Akanni Atewogboye as the sixth Oniko.

They argue that the declaration, made under the Western Region Appointment and Recognition of Chiefs Law of 1954, clearly entitles them to nominate and present a candidate at this stage in the rotation.

“We are a civil family. We will not take the law into our hands. We trust the courts to deliver justice,” Shadrack said, vowing that the Obele family will use all legal means to resist what they describe as an attempt to impose an “illegal monarch” on Ikolaje.

The petition further alleges bias among the kingmakers and accuses officials of withholding access to certified copies of the chieftaincy declaration. The Obele family insists that any attempt to install a candidate from outside their lineage would be illegal and a violation of tradition. They vow to prove in court that the throne belongs to them by right of rotation, citing past successions and official documents to back their claim.

This unfolding dispute underscores the enduring importance of traditional institutions in Ogun State and the delicate balance of law, custom, and politics that governs succession in ancient towns like Ikolaje, Idiroko. Read More

Osimhen’s Header Seals Istanbul Derby Win as Galatasaray Edge Besiktas

Staff Reporter
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Osimhen’s Header Seals Istanbul Derby Win as Galatasaray Edge Besiktas

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has reflected on Galatasaray’s hard-fought victory over rivals Besiktas in the Istanbul derby.

The Yellow and Reds secured a narrow 1-0 win on Saturday night, extending their lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig table to seven points.

Osimhen proved decisive in the encounter, scoring the only goal of the match with a powerful header shortly before half-time.

However, the hosts were forced to dig deep for the result after Germany international Leroy Sane was sent off in the 62nd minute.

Speaking after the match, Osimhen admitted that the red card made the encounter more challenging for his side as they battled to maintain their advantage.

“We knew it wouldn’t be easy. We expected to play against a tough opponent in front of thousands of fans. We had momentum in the match and we scored a goal,” the Nigerian forward told the club’s official website.

“We struggled after the red card. That’s normal when you’re playing against a quality opponent.”

The victory strengthens Galatasaray’s push for a fourth consecutive league title this season.

Attention will now shift to European competition as the Turkish champions prepare for a UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Liverpool FC in midweek.

Akpabio: Opposition Anger Over Senate Laws Confirms We’re Doing the Right Thing

Staff Reporter
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Akpabio: Opposition Anger Over Senate Laws Confirms We’re Doing the Right Thing

President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has said criticism and anger from opposition figures over laws passed by the Senate reassure him that lawmakers are making the right decisions.

Akpabio made the remark on Saturday in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, while addressing guests during a reception organised in honour of Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

According to the Senate President, reactions from opposition politicians often serve as confirmation that the Senate’s legislative actions are effective.

“Each time we make a law and the opposition frowns, I get excited that I’ve made the right law,” Akpabio said.

He also dismissed threats by some opposition figures to boycott the 2027 presidential election, describing such statements as an indication that they are unprepared for the contest.

Akpabio referenced a television appearance by an opposition figure who criticised the recently amended Electoral Act (Nigeria) and suggested the possibility of boycotting future elections.

“Yesterday I saw one man shouting on TV because of the amended Electoral Act, saying we’re likely to boycott elections,” he said.

“My response was: tell the truth, you’re boycotting the elections because you’re not ready. If you are ready, you won’t boycott.”

The Senate President maintained that the National Assembly would continue to enact laws it believes are in the best interest of the country, regardless of criticism from political opponents.

Trump Snubs UK Military Offer, Says U.S. Already Winning War Against Iran

Staff Reporter
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Trump Snubs UK Military Offer, Says U.S. Already Winning War Against Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed a proposed offer of military assistance from the United Kingdom, stating that American forces no longer require support after gaining what he described as the upper hand in the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Trump made the remarks on Saturday in a post on his Truth Social platform while reacting to reports that Britain was considering deploying two aircraft carriers to the Middle East to support the military campaign.

Addressing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the U.S. leader suggested that the proposed support had come too late.

“The United Kingdom, our once great ally, maybe the greatest of them all, is finally giving serious thought to sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East,” Trump wrote.

“That’s OK, Prime Minister Starmer, we don’t need them any longer, but we will remember. We don’t need people that join wars after we’ve already won.”

The comments came after the British Ministry of Defence confirmed that the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales had been placed on a higher level of operational readiness, shortening the time required for deployment if necessary.

However, British officials clarified that the move does not automatically mean the warship will be deployed to the Middle East, noting that it may still be used for other scheduled operations, including exercises with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Trump later reiterated his position while speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One, saying the assistance would have been more useful earlier in the conflict.

“We don’t need them. It’s not the right time. It would have been nice to have had them two weeks ago,” he said.

Meanwhile, the president travelled to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to attend a dignified transfer ceremony for six American service members killed during the conflict in Kuwait.

During the ceremony, Trump stood before the flag-draped coffins of the fallen soldiers and saluted as military personnel carried the remains from the aircraft.

Although he described the moment as “a very sad day,” the president defended the ongoing military campaign against Iran, insisting that the United States was decisively winning the war.

Trump also stirred debate with comments about Iran’s political future, suggesting that Washington should play a role in determining the country’s next leadership to prevent further hostilities.

“We don’t want to come back every five or ten years and do this again. We want to pick a president that’s not going to lead the country into war,” he said.

He added that the United States has no plans to involve Kurdish armed groups in the conflict, explaining that the administration aims to avoid further complicating the war.

Allegations Mount Against VeryDarkMan Over Pattern of Online Attacks on Female Celebrities

Staff Reporter
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Allegations Mount Against VeryDarkMan Over Pattern of Online Attacks on Female Celebrities

Controversial social media commentator VeryDarkMan is facing renewed criticism over what observers describe as a recurring pattern of online attacks directed largely at prominent Nigerian women.

Critics argue that many of the activist’s most aggressive and personal remarks on social media have been targeted at successful female public figures, sparking debate about the tone and impact of digital activism in Nigeria’s online space.

Among those who have clashed with the commentator is Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo. Their dispute began during the public outcry surrounding the Mohbad case, when Ojo played a visible role in calls for justice following the singer’s death. The disagreement escalated after the activist made allegations against the actress, which she strongly denied.

Another celebrity drawn into controversy with him is actress Tonto Dikeh, whom he accused of mismanaging public donations and operating a gossip platform. The claims were rejected by the actress and her supporters, who described the accusations as defamatory.

Relationship coach Blessing Okoro has also been publicly criticised by the activist, while Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing Sunday became the subject of online body-shaming after an unauthorised gym photo circulated online.

Similarly, Phyna, winner of the Big Brother Naija Level Up season, reportedly experienced a fallout with the activist after previously seeking his assistance over a family-related matter.

The latest figure caught in the controversy is social media personality King Mitchy, who has gained recognition online for her charitable initiatives. She recently became the subject of unverified allegations that critics say attempt to discredit her philanthropic work.

Observers note that many of the disputes follow a similar pattern in which female celebrities are accused of achieving success through inappropriate relationships or hidden sponsorship.

Media analysts warn that such narratives can have broader implications for online discourse, particularly among younger audiences who consume social media commentary daily.

They argue that Nigeria’s rapidly growing digital space requires stronger conversations about responsible speech, accountability, and the impact of public commentary on reputations and gender perceptions.

While supporters of the activist defend his approach as outspoken advocacy, critics insist that the repeated confrontations with female public figures raise serious questions about the boundaries between activism, criticism, and online harassment.

The controversy continues to fuel debate about the responsibility of influencers and commentators in shaping Nigeria’s digital culture and public discourse.

2027 Race: Tinubu’s Cabinet Faces Shake-Up as Ministers Eye Governorship, NASS Seats

Staff Reporter
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2027 Race: Tinubu’s Cabinet Faces Shake-Up as Ministers Eye Governorship, NASS Seats

Fresh political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections may trigger a shake-up in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as several ministers reportedly consider stepping down to pursue elective offices in their respective states.

Investigations by Saturday MetroNews indicate that at least four members of the Federal Executive Council are positioning themselves for key state and federal contests, particularly in states where current governors will complete their constitutionally permitted two terms in 2027.

Among those linked to the political calculations are the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and the Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.

Their potential ambitions come as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) prepares the ground for the next election cycle, with party primaries scheduled to hold between April 22 and May 20.

Under Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, political appointees must resign from their positions before participating in party primaries either as aspirants or voting delegates.

Sources suggest Adelabu may soon resign his ministerial post to pursue the governorship ticket in Oyo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria is reportedly preparing for a fresh attempt at the governorship after losing to the incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde, in both the 2019 and 2023 elections.

Adelabu had previously hinted at his possible exit from the cabinet during an engagement with stakeholders in the electricity sector, saying he hoped to accomplish certain goals “before leaving office.”

In a video that circulated widely in October 2025, the minister openly declared his intention to run again for the state’s top seat, insisting that the 2027 election could be his moment.

However, his aide, Femi Awogboro, clarified that the president had not yet asked the minister to resign.

“As of now, the President has not told Adelabu to step down. Only the President can make that call,” Awogboro said, adding that the minister would comply with legal requirements at the appropriate time.

Despite the speculation, the APC Publicity Secretary in Oyo, Olawale Sadare, said no aspirant had officially declared interest because the party had not opened the nomination process.

In Bauchi State, political signals suggest a possible contest between two serving ministers.

Supporters of Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate say he has agreed to consider running for governor following pressure from stakeholders and supporters who believe he possesses the leadership credentials to transform the state.

A coordinator of the Pate Media Centre, Ibrahim Abdulhamid, revealed that a delegation of Bauchi indigenes had visited the minister in Abuja to encourage him to join the race.

Another supporter, Garo Misau, described Pate as a highly qualified leader with international experience and humanitarian impact.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar is also widely believed to be preparing for a governorship bid in the state.

His media adviser, Alkasim Abdulkadir, confirmed that the minister has an interest in the position and would comply with INEC’s timetable and requirements.

A supporter from the Tuggar Foundation, Ahmad Tilde, said many residents of Bauchi believe Tuggar has the capacity to govern effectively.

Both ministers were reportedly present at the Bauchi APC convention held on March 3, further fueling speculation about their political ambitions.

The Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, may also be planning a return to the National Assembly of Nigeria.

The Abia State politician previously served four terms in the House of Representatives between 2007 and 2023, representing the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi federal constituency.

Sources close to the minister say she may seek to reclaim her seat in the legislature, though she has yet to publicly confirm the plan.

Meanwhile, INEC has dismissed a widely circulated report claiming that March 26 was fixed as the deadline for ministers and other public office holders seeking election to resign.

In a statement posted on its official X account, the electoral body described the information as false and urged the public to rely only on announcements from its verified platforms.

In a related development, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has asked political appointees in his administration who intend to contest the 2027 elections to openly declare their ambitions.

Speaking during the 2026 Iftar programme at the Government House in Ibadan, Makinde encouraged interested aspirants to pursue their political ambitions on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He assured them of his support as long as their loyalty remained with the people and the development of the state.

CBN Affirms Alpha Morgan Bank’s Capitalisation

Lukman Omikunle
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CBN Affirms Alpha Morgan Bank’s Capitalisation

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has affirmed the capitalization of Alpha Morgan Bank,marking an important milestone in the Bank’s growth

CBN Affirms Alpha Morgan Bank’s Capitalisation as Bank Positions for Next Phase of Growth

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has affirmed the capitalization of Alpha Morgan Bank,marking an important milestone in the Bank’s growth journey and reinforcing its commitment to building a strong, resilient, and future-ready financial institution.

This affirmation reflects the Bank’s adherence to regulatory requirements and its strategic focus on strengthening its capital base to support sustainable growth, innovation and improved service delivery to customers.

With this milestone, Alpha Morgan Bank is well positioned to continue expanding its footprint with its 14 approved branches across different states, while deepening inclusivity and enhancing the range of banking solutions available to individuals, businesses, and institutional clients nationwide.

Commenting on the development, The Managing Director, Mr. Ade Buraimo expressed the readiness of the bank in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirement, good governance framework while delivering satisfying banking along the long-term vision of the bank to become the best bank to work and strong financial institution to reckon with.

‘Capitalisation is more than a regulatory requirement; it is an opportunity to strengthen the institution for the future. The affirmation of Alpha Morgan Bank capitalisation reflects the work we have done to build a solid capital foundation that allows us to support businesses more effectively,expand financial access and continue delivering the level of service our customers expect,”he said.

Alpha Morgan Bank remains committed to maintaining strong corporate governance standards,sound risk management practices, and prudent financial management as it continues to support economic development and create long-term value for stakeholders.

As Alpha Morgan Bank enters the next phase of its journey, the institution will continue to scale its operation, invest in technology, expand its branch network and digital banking presence, whilst delivering reliable and satisfying banking experiences to its growing customer base.

Alpha Morgan Bank is a Nigerian commercial bank,committed to delivering satisfying banking through innovative solutions, strong corporate governance, and customer-focused services that support economic growth and financial inclusion. Read More

‘I Hated My Birth Name’: BBNaija Winner Phyna Opens Up on Painful Childhood and Struggle for Love

Staff Reporter
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‘I Hated My Birth Name’: BBNaija Winner Phyna Opens Up on Painful Childhood and Struggle for Love

Phyna, winner of the Big Brother Naija Level Up season, has spoken candidly about her painful upbringing, revealing that she dislikes the name “Blessing,” which was given to her by her parents.

In a recent interview, the reality television star explained that the name feels disconnected from her childhood experiences, which she said were far from the “blessings” it suggests.

According to Phyna, her early years were marked by emotional struggles and a constant search for love and acceptance from family, friends, and romantic partners. She said those efforts often ended in rejection and harsh criticism.

The Edo-born reality star described her upbringing as “crazy,” noting that she missed out on several opportunities and support systems that many of her peers enjoyed while growing up.

Despite the challenges, Phyna said she remained confident that her circumstances would one day change. She recalled frequently telling members of her extended family that she would eventually become successful and famous.

“The name given to me by my parents is Blessing. My reason for hating that name is that I don’t see a sense of blessing in my life,” she said. “It felt like I was always begging for love – family love, friendship, even in relationships.”

She added that growing up was extremely difficult, explaining that she lacked the support many teenagers receive from their parents and relatives.

However, Phyna said she always believed she was destined for greatness.

“Even when my aunts beat or maltreated me, I would tell them they would watch me on television and I would have money,” she recalled.

Her eventual victory in the Level Up edition of Big Brother Naija marked a turning point in her life, transforming her from a struggling young woman into one of Nigeria’s most recognised reality TV personalities.

Amanda Oruh Opens Up on 10 Years of Rejections Before Breakthrough Role in ‘Lady’

Staff Reporter
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Amanda Oruh Opens Up on 10 Years of Rejections Before Breakthrough Role in ‘Lady’

Nollywood screen actress Amanda Oruh has shared her journey through years of rejection before landing a major role in the acclaimed film Lady.

Oruh, who plays the character Pinky in the movie, revealed that she spent nearly a decade attending auditions and struggling to secure acting opportunities before her breakthrough.

“Ten years of auditions, rejections, months without work, wondering if I was delusional for believing this could happen,” she said while reflecting on her early career challenges.

Her persistence eventually paid off when Lady premiered in Europe at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival, also known as the Berlinale, where the film reportedly received a standing ovation from the audience.

Recalling the emotional moment of seeing herself on screen, Oruh said the experience brought her to tears.

“I watched myself as Pinky on that screen, and I cried. Not pretty tears, the kind that come from somewhere deep, where you’ve been holding pain and hope in equal measure for too long,” she said.

The actress, who also appeared in the popular Nigerian film King of Boys, described the moment she stood alongside her castmates at the international festival as a defining point in her career.

“Standing on that stage with my castmates and looking out at faces from all over the world who came to see this story about Lagos women, I felt it. This is why I didn’t quit,” she added.

The UK–Nigerian co-production tells the story of women in Lagos navigating survival, resilience, and sisterhood.

Earlier this year, the ensemble cast of Lady also earned global recognition after winning the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Acting Ensemble at the Sundance Film Festival.



Segun Ogungbe Debunks Rumour, Says Wife and Baby Mama Were Never Friends

Staff Reporter
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Segun Ogungbe Debunks Rumour, Says Wife and Baby Mama Were Never Friends

Popular Nollywood actor and film producer Segun Ogungbe has addressed rumours surrounding his personal life, clarifying that his wife and the mother of his child outside wedlock were never friends as widely reported.

Ogungbe made the clarification while speaking during a recent programme, dismissing claims that his wife, Tinuke Ogungbe, and his baby mama, Wunmi Ajiboye, shared a close relationship.

According to the actor, the story circulating on social media suggesting the two women were friends was false and originated from an individual who allegedly spread the claim out of frustration.

“My wife and my baby mama were never friends. The rumour of them being friends was a lie that was generated from social media,” he said.

Ogungbe explained that the rumour began after a female admirer who had hoped to marry him became upset upon learning that he had impregnated another woman outside wedlock.

He revealed that the admirer had previously supported him financially during the production of some of his movie projects and was disappointed by the development.

“Someone who admired me and wanted me to marry her did it. She had always been on my neck to marry her, but I said I would never get married to more than one wife,” he said.

The actor added that the woman allegedly took to social media to spread the claim that his wife and baby mama were friends, a narrative that was quickly picked up and circulated by blogs.

“It’s not true,” Ogungbe insisted, reiterating that the claim about the relationship between the two women was fabricated.

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