Tinubu Commends Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

Tinubu Commends Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, praising security agencies for ending their 56-day ordeal.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the Nigerian military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force for carrying out a successful operation that secured the victims’ freedom without casualties.

Tinubu also applauded the security operatives for arresting eight suspected kidnappers while neutralising several others during the rescue mission.

Describing the development as a source of relief for the affected families and the nation, the President expressed sympathy for the trauma endured by the pupils, teachers, and their loved ones since the abduction on May 15.

He assured that justice would be pursued for all the victims, including the family of Michael Oyedokun, the mathematics teacher who was killed while in captivity.

The President further commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation and urged authorities to strengthen security measures around schools across the state.

Tinubu also directed relevant emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide medical treatment, counselling, and other necessary support for the rescued pupils and teachers.

The victims were abducted on May 15 after armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Their rescue on Friday brought an end to nearly two months in captivity.

CBN: Standard N100 Note Remains Valid, Warns Against Rejection

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reaffirmed that the regular N100 banknote remains legal tender and has warned that anyone who refuses to accept it could face sanctions under the provisions of the CBN Act.

The clarification comes after reports that some traders, businesses and members of the public had been rejecting the standard N100 note, believing it was no longer valid following the introduction of the commemorative N100 banknote.

The apex bank explained that the commemorative N100 note was introduced in 2014 to celebrate Nigeria’s centenary, marking 100 years since the 1914 amalgamation. It stressed that the commemorative note was issued alongside the existing N100 note and was never intended to replace it.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, said both versions of the N100 note remain legal tender and must be accepted for all transactions across the country.

According to the CBN, the reports of the rejection of the standard N100 note stem from misinformation regarding its legal status.

The bank emphasized that both the commemorative and the regular N100 banknotes are valid and should be accepted by individuals, businesses, financial institutions and all other economic operators nationwide.

It further warned that refusing the standard N100 note amounts to a violation of the CBN Act and could attract regulatory action.

The CBN reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the naira, sustaining public confidence in Nigeria’s currency and ensuring the smooth circulation of all officially issued banknotes.

The bank urged Nigerians to disregard false claims about the validity of the standard N100 note and continue accepting all CBN-issued banknotes for everyday transactions.

Atiku’s aide urges Tinubu to suspend Gbajabiamila before ICPC probe

Media Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Paul Ibe, has urged President Bola Tinubu to suspend his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other officials allegedly linked to the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) controversy before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) begins its investigation.

In a post on his X handle on Tuesday, Ibe described the President’s decision to order an investigation without first suspending the key individuals named in the allegations as “flagrantly wrong.”

He argued that allowing the officials to remain in office during the investigation could compromise the integrity of the probe.

“Not suspending all those involved in the #GbajaGate scandal is akin to them being a judge in their own case. Their continued stay in office while the investigation is going on gives them the opportunity to interfere with the investigation process,” Ibe said.

President Tinubu had directed the ICPC to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the PFIPC, which the Presidency has described as a fictitious body with no legal basis or presidential approval. The anti-corruption agency was given 30 days to submit its findings.

The controversy erupted after Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew, who claims to be the Director-General of the PFIPC, alleged that he paid N600 million, including N400 million through proxies, to secure the appointment. He also accused Gbajabiamila of demanding 48 per cent of the agency’s take-off grant.

The Presidency has dismissed Adeyemi as an impostor and maintained that the PFIPC does not exist. However, questions have continued over reports that the council received a N1.3 billion allocation in the 2026 Appropriation Act and allegedly opened accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Ibe’s remarks add to growing calls for Gbajabiamila’s suspension pending the outcome of the investigation. The Nigeria Democratic Congress and former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, have also made similar demands.

Diaspora Association to Host Fundraising Gala for Ijebu Igbo Community Health Centres

The Association of Ijebu Igbo Descendants in North America (AIID-NA) will hold a two-day Gala and Fundraising Event in Maryland, United States, bringing together sons and daughters of Ijebu Igbo from across the United States and Canada.

The event, scheduled for July 10 and 11, 2026, will be chaired by Dr. Olusegun Asekun, a prominent lawyer, philanthropist and indigene of Ijebu Igbo.

His Royal Majesty, Oba Lawrence Jaiyeoba, the Orimolusi of Ijebu Igbo, will be represented by the Mayegun of Ijebu Igbo, Dr. Babatunde Rowaiye.

Speaking to Row Radio, the President of AIID-NA and the Odofin-Elect of Ijebu Igbo, Otunba Dr. Thomas Osinowo, said the gala is expected to raise funds for the construction of a state-of-the-art Community Health Centre in Ijebu Igbo.

He noted that the association has provided comprehensive free healthcare services annually to the people of Ijebu North over the last two years, describing the programme as a huge success. He added that the association hopes to sustain the initiative while creating greater awareness on the importance of good health and healthy living.

Other prominent personalities expected at the event include the Special Guest of Honour, Omooba M. Adekoya, Chief Executive Officer of Wosam Arena and the Ogbeni Oja of Ago-Iwoye, as well as the Chief Launcher, Dr. Olufemi Olawale, Chief Executive Officer of Oasis Health Ventures, Baltimore, Maryland, USA, alongside several other distinguished guests.

NYSC reforms: Adire fabric to replace khaki as uniform

The Federal Government has announced plans to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) traditional khaki uniform with Adire fabric as part of ongoing reforms aimed at promoting Nigerian culture and supporting locally made products.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, made the announcement on Thursday, explaining that the decision is part of broader government efforts to strengthen local production and ensure that public spending contributes directly to the growth of Nigeria’s economy.

According to the minister, the proposed Adire uniforms will be produced locally. He noted that the fabric is already widely manufactured across different parts of the country, making it a practical choice for large-scale production.

Olawande added that the initiative is expected to boost indigenous industries, particularly Nigeria’s textile sector, while creating more opportunities for local artisans and encouraging government-backed patronage of homegrown products.

The minister also revealed that, in response to security concerns in some parts of the country, the Federal Government is considering deploying prospective corps members to states where they studied and are already familiar with the environment, especially in areas affected by insecurity.

Ogun Govt Attributes Ijebu-Ode Gas Emissions to Underground Fault Lines

The Ogun State Government has ruled out traditional beliefs surrounding the recurring gas emissions recorded in parts of Ijebu-Ode, describing the incidents as natural geological occurrences caused by underground fault lines.

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, made this known during a town hall meeting held in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday.

The clarification follows three separate incidents this year in which students and teachers from some schools in the area were hospitalised after exposure to a suspected chemical odour.

According to Oresanya, investigations revealed that methane and hydrogen sulphide gases were responsible for the emissions, explaining that the gases escaped through fractures beneath the earth’s surface along established fault lines.

He stressed that the phenomenon had no connection with myths or supernatural beliefs, but was a natural geological process.

Oresanya disclosed that the fault line extends from Mojoda through Ijebu-Ode and into Osun State, noting that the affected schools are located along the identified geological corridor.

He further explained that the area was once heavily forested and sparsely populated before missionary activities led to the establishment of schools on lands that had previously been abandoned.

The commissioner identified the Ifewara-Zungeru Trans-Atlantic fault line as a major contributor to the gas emissions, adding that experts are still investigating whether the gases are thermogenic or methanogenic in origin.

He also revealed that the state government is exploring the possibility of natural gas deposits beneath the affected communities.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, appealed to residents to remain calm and adhere to safety precautions whenever gas emissions occur.

She advised residents to cover their noses with a wet handkerchief instead of wearing face masks, warning that masks may not be safe in such situations, and urged the public to take immediate protective measures whenever the emissions are noticed.

Starmer Resigns as UK Prime Minister After Less Than Two Years in Office

British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has announced his resignation, bringing an unexpected end to a premiership that began following Labour’s decisive general election victory in July 2024.

Starmer made the announcement on Monday in a statement delivered outside 10 Downing Street, where he reflected on his tenure and defended the key decisions taken by his administration.

“Every decision I have made has been about putting the country I love first,” Starmer said as he confirmed he would step down as both Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party.

His resignation marks a significant turning point in British politics, coming less than two years after he led Labour back into government, ending more than a decade of Conservative rule. The development is expected to trigger a leadership race within the governing party amid growing political uncertainty.

Addressing supporters gathered outside Downing Street, Starmer described his arrival at No. 10 in 2024 as “the proudest moment” of his life, stating that his motivation for entering politics had always been to improve the lives of millions of people across the United Kingdom.

Reflecting on his legacy, the outgoing Prime Minister highlighted what he described as major achievements during his leadership, including rebuilding the Labour Party after years of internal divisions and restoring public confidence in its economic and national security agenda.

Starmer said he inherited a party that was “politically, financially and morally bankrupt” and faced widespread predictions that it would struggle to return to power. He credited his leadership with transforming Labour into a credible governing party, citing reforms aimed at tackling anti-Semitism and strengthening public trust.

Attention has now shifted to the question of Starmer’s successor, with Andy Burnham emerging as the leading contender following his recent victory in the Makerfield by-election. Burnham is expected to be sworn in as a Member of Parliament in the coming days.

Political analysts and Labour insiders believe Burnham could secure the party leadership without a contested election if no other candidate emerges, raising the possibility of a smooth transition. Should that happen, Labour could have a new party leader and Prime Minister in place by September, ahead of the party’s annual conference.

Rotary Club of Ijebu Igbo Metropolitan to Offer Free Medical Services at Family Health Days

The Rotary Club of Ijebu Igbo Metropolitan, under Rotary International District 9112, has announced a three-day free medical outreach as part of the 2026 Rotary Family Health Days.

The health programme is scheduled to hold from June 25 to June 27, 2026, providing residents with access to a wide range of essential healthcare services at no cost.

According to the organisers, the annual initiative is being implemented by the Rotary Action Group for Family Health and AIDS Prevention (RFHA), with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in collaboration with Rotary Clubs and Districts across Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Health, private sector partners, and non-governmental organisations.

The programme aims to improve public health through preventive care, early diagnosis, treatment, and health education.

Services to be offered during the outreach include polio immunisation, malaria screening and treatment, HIV testing and counselling, hepatitis B and C screening, diabetes and hypertension screening, tuberculosis screening, vitamin A administration, deworming of children, distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, cervical, breast and prostate cancer screening, family planning counselling, eye tests, dental care, COVID-19 awareness and sensitisation, HPV vaccination, and the distribution of sanitary pads to girls.

The Rotary Club has encouraged members of the public to take advantage of the free health services by visiting the designated outreach centres during the three-day event.

Ijebu Igbo Economic Sustainability Group Unveils Plans for Summit, Business Expo, Youth Awards

The Ijebu Igbo Economic Sustainability Group (IJESG) has announced plans for a series of initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, entrepreneurship, and youth development within Ijebu Igbo and its surrounding communities.

Speaking on the upcoming programmes, the group’s Public Relations Officer, Senbadejo Olawale, said preparations are in top gear for the forthcoming Economic Sustainability Summit, which is expected to bring together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to discuss practical solutions for sustainable economic development. According to him, the summit will provide a platform for dialogue on investment opportunities, business growth, and community-driven development.

He also disclosed that the group is planning the Ijebu Igbo Business Expo Online in collaboration with Ijebu Igbo Development (IID) UK and the Ijebu Igbo Community Development (IICD) platform. The initiative is designed to showcase businesses operating within Ijebu Igbo, promote local entrepreneurs, connect them with broader markets, and stimulate economic activities across the community.

Olawale explained that this will give business owners greater visibility while encouraging networking opportunities among investors, entrepreneurs, and consumers. He noted that the organisers are optimistic the programme will contribute significantly to strengthening the local economy and creating new opportunities for businesses to thrive.

In addition, preparations are underway for the 4th edition of the Ijebu North Youth Award (INYA), an annual event dedicated to recognising and celebrating outstanding young individuals who have made meaningful contributions to society. As Chairman of the Organising Committee, Olawale said the award ceremony will continue to inspire excellence, encourage leadership, and promote positive values among youths in Ijebu North.

He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to initiatives that foster community development, youth empowerment, and economic sustainability, expressing confidence that the various programmes will further position Ijebu Igbo as a hub for innovation, enterprise, and inclusive growth.

Prince Michael Akanbi Ademola Adegoke Celebrates 70th Birthday in Grand Style

Prince Michael Akanbi Ademola Adegoke of Bronx, New York, was recently celebrated by his children, family members, and friends as he marked his 70th birthday in a joyous gathering filled with love, appreciation, and heartfelt tributes.

The milestone celebration brought together loved ones who honoured the septuagenarian for his remarkable life, unwavering commitment to family values, and positive impact on those around him. Guests described him as a man of integrity, wisdom, and generosity whose life has inspired many across generations.

Family members expressed gratitude for his guidance, sacrifices, and enduring support over the years, praying for continued good health, long life, and greater accomplishments. Friends also paid glowing tributes, highlighting his humility, kindness, and the strong relationships he has built within his community.

The celebration was marked by moments of thanksgiving, laughter, and warm fellowship as attendees wished Prince Michael Akanbi Ademola Adegoke many more years of happiness, peace, and fulfilment.