News

I’m Not One Of You Again, Olubadan Tells Atiku

Published

2 months ago

September 30, 2025

The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, revealed that he had withdrawn from active politics to focus on his role as monarch.

Oba Ladoja stated this when Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside a former Senate President, Iyorchia Ayu, ex-governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), and other prominent politicians, paid him homage at his private residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following his coronation.

He stated, “I’m not one of you again. I am the Olubadan of Ibadanland. So, I am for everybody now. I am not a politician anymore. Welcome to my house.

“Now that I am the Olubadan, I am no more interested in any other than the Olubadan. You are welcome to my house.”

Recounting his political journey with Atiku, he explained, “We started from the Social Democratic Party, we were in exile together, we were in the Peoples Democratic Party together. When I wanted to create an identity, I went to the Accord Party, which became a household name here. I know you politicians have a way of coming back.

“All the religious leaders said that the only thing the leaders can do is to promote justice and fairness. I will serve my people—Ibadan people, the state, Africa and the world at large. I will depend on your support and advice.”

Ladoja was officially presented with the staff and instrument of office last Friday by Governor Seyi Makinde, who cut short his annual leave to personally attend the historic event.

The event marked the grand finale of activities celebrating former Oyo State governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja’s ascension to the revered throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The coronation concluded a week-long celebration that featured a cultural day, a coronation lecture, a praise and worship service, and the monarch’s 81st birthday, which was celebrated in grand style at Liberty Stadium

The new Olubadan ascended the throne following the passing of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90.

News

Otuaro Felicitates Tompolo On Honorary Doctorate Award

Published

50 minutes ago

December 2, 2025

Editor

Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro has congratulated High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, on the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate of Laws (LLD) by the E.K. Clark University.

Otuaro described the recognition as well-deserved and befitting, noting that Tompolo has, over the years, demonstrated uncommon commitment to the peace, progress, and stability of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

According to him, Tompolo’s role in sustaining peace in the region, particularly through his steadfast support for dialogue, community engagement, and nonviolent approaches to conflict resolution, has made a significant contribution to national security and economic stability.

He further noted that, beyond his contributions to peacebuilding, Tompolo has demonstrated extraordinary compassion, philanthropy, and devotion to humanitarian causes.

He added that his investments in youth empowerment stand as clear evidence of a man whose heart is truly with his people.

“Tompolo’s good heart, generosity, and love for humanity distinguish him as a leader of rare character,” Otuaro said.

The PAP Administrator commended E.K. Clark University for identifying and honouring a personality whose impact continues to resonate across the Niger Delta and beyond.

He urged other institutions to emulate such gestures that celebrate individuals advancing society through selfless service.

Dr Otuaro prayed for God’s continued guidance, long life, and strength for High Chief Ekpemupolo as he continues to serve the Niger Delta and Nigeria with dignity, wisdom, and compassion.

News

JUST IN: Defence Minister, Badaru Mohammed Resigns

Published

1 hour ago

December 1, 2025

Editor

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has resigned his appointment with immediate effect.

His resignation was contained in a letter addressed to President Tinubu and dated December 1.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed this on Monday.

The presidential spokesman said Abubakar resigned on health grounds.

News

Police Deny Opening Recruitment Portal, Warn Nigerians Against Fake Adverts

Published

2 hours ago

December 1, 2025

Editor

The Police Service Commission has debunked reports circulating on social media and several unofficial websites claiming that it has opened a portal for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force.

The Commission described the publications as fake, warning that they were created by fraudsters seeking to deceive and exploit unsuspecting Nigerians.

In a statement published on its official website on Monday, the PSC said it had not commenced any recruitment exercise.

“The general public is hereby informed that these publications are fake and entirely misleading.

“They are the handiwork of fraudsters attempting to exploit innocent citizens,” the Commission said.

It added that no recruitment portal had been opened by the Commission.

“There is currently no ongoing recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force.

“The Police Service Commission has not opened any portal for such an exercise,” the statement added.

The PSC stressed that whenever recruitment begins, the announcement will be made strictly through authorised platforms.

According to the statement, official channels include advertisements in reputable national newspapers, announcements posted on the Commission’s verified website (www.psc.gov.ng), and formal press releases.

“We urge Nigerians to rely only on information published through these official channels.

“Any recruitment portal not listed on our website is fraudulent and should be reported to the police,” the commission said.

The PSC advised the public to ignore the fake recruitment claims to avoid falling victim to scams.

The PUNCH had reported that the Police Service Commission has cautioned Nigerians seeking a career in the Nigeria Police Force to beware of fake recruitment adverts circulating online, insisting that it has not yet commenced the 2025 recruitment exercise.