SOUTH-WEST NGR NEWS

No fewer than 56 people, mostly traders, are feared de@d, while 14 others have been hospitalized following an airstrike on a weekly market at Jilli market located between Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas of Borno and Yobe states, on Saturday, April 11. DailyTrust reports that the airstrike was suspected to have been carried out during a military operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents. The weekly market usually attracts traders and buyers from surrounding communities, including Gubio, Chiweram, and Benisheikh in Borno State, as well as Gurokayeya and Geidam in Yobe State. Multiple sources said the fighter jet that carried out the operation was tracking a group of suspected insurgents believed to have visited the market to collect levies from traders and obtain supplies. However, the strike reportedly missed its intended target and hit the unsuspecting traders.   An eyewitness said at least 56 people have been confirmed dead, while 14 ...

Political tension continues to rise in Akinyele Constituency 1 of Oyo State as the contest for the 2027 House of Assembly seat begins to take shape, with clear divisions emerging among stakeholders. Hon. (Mrs.) Rukayat Tolani Balogun has strongly dismissed claims suggesting she once stepped down for the incumbent lawmaker, insisting that such narratives are false and misleading. According to her camp, these claims are being circulated by Lekan Abiola Monsuru and a small group of his supporters in a bid to gain political advantage. Balogun maintains that she never withdrew or stepped down her ambition at any point, stressing that she has remained consistent and committed to her aspiration. She insists that her position is rooted not only in her political standing but also in what she describes as a prior understanding with Governor Seyi Makinde regarding the succession of the seat after the incumbent’s tenure. The controversy has sparked debate within the constit...

Political tension is building in Akinyele Constituency 1 of Oyo State as key stakeholders and leaders within the constituency appear divided over the 2027 House of Assembly ticket. Hon. (Mrs.) Rukayat Tolani Balogun has firmly rejected any moves toward a consensus arrangement, maintaining that she did not step down for anyone at any point in time and remains the rightful aspirant based on an alleged prior promise made by Governor Seyi Makinde after the tenure of the incumbent representative, Lekan Abiola Monsuru. At a recent stakeholders’ gathering, prominent political figures including Hon. Jelili Adeleke, Elder Gbolagun, Engineer Akinsola, Oloye Akin-Aderibigbe, Baba Odewenwa, Alhaji Tirimisiyu Olaibi, Alhaji Arowosaye, Alhaji Gasali, Hon. Dayo Opatokun, Mr. Akintola (Secretary), and Hon. Lateef (Party Chairman) reportedly expressed reservations about the unfolding political situation. Some of the leaders, particularly Oloye Akin-Aderibigbe, Elder Gbolagun, an...

A prominent figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Egbeda/Ona-Ara federal constituency, Who is also a leading aspirant, Hon. Seye Gbaroye, popularly known as Omo Wa has formally debunked rumors regarding a purported "consensus stakeholder decision" ahead of the 2027 general elections. ​In a statement released to the press on Thursday, Gbaroye described the news circulating on social media and within local political circles as "faulty, premature, and a misrepresentation of the party's current internal dynamics." ​Key Highlights of the Statement ​No Official Verdict: Gbaroye emphasized that while consultations are a natural part of the political calendar, no definitive agreement has been reached regarding a consensus candidate for the House of Representatives seat. ​The "Faulty" Narrative: He noted that the reports claiming a unified front behind a specific individual were designed to "create a false sense of finality...

As Christians across Nigeria mark the Easter celebration, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and community leader, Aare Olayinka Akintola Oladimeji Segelu, has extended heartfelt Easter greetings, calling on believers to reflect deeply on the core values of faith, sacrifice, love, and unity. In his Easter message to Christians on Sunday , Chief Oladimeji described the season as a powerful reminder of hope and renewal, emphasising that the resurrection of Jesus Christ offers strength and encouragement in challenging times. “The message of Easter goes beyond festivity,” Oladimeji said.  “It is a celebration of triumph over darkness, a promise that no situation is permanent, and that through faith and resilience, victory is assured.” He urged Christians to allow the lessons of Christ’s resurrection to shape their daily conduct, stressing that the values of compassion, forgiveness and selfless service should be reflected in personal and communal life. ...

As Christians across Nigeria and around the world celebrate the Easter season, Hon. Amb. Chief (Mrs) Lamidi Rukayat Tolani Balogun has extended warm greetings to the faithful, urging reflection on the values of hope, sacrifice, and renewal that define the occasion. In her Easter message, Balogun emphasized the significance of the celebration as a symbol of new beginnings and collective progress. She encouraged Christians to embrace the spirit of unity and compassion, noting that the lessons of Easter remain vital in fostering peace and development within communities. This Easter, may hope rise, and may our future shine brighter together, she stated, calling on citizens to remain steadfast in their belief in a better tomorrow. Balogun, who has declared her aspiration to represent Akinyele Constituency 1 in the Oyo State House of Assembly come 2027, also used the opportunity to reaffirm her commitment to grassroots development and inclusive governance. She highlighted the nee...

By Afolabi Akinfenwa  Hon. Seye Gbaroye, an aspirant for the House of Representatives seat in Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, has extended warm greetings to Christians across the constituency as they celebrate Easter, calling for hope, unity, and collective commitment to community development. In a goodwill message released on Saturday, Gbaroye described Easter as a season that symbolizes sacrifice, renewal, and triumph over hardship, urging residents to reflect these values in their daily lives and interactions. He called on constituents to embrace peace and mutual understanding regardless of political, religious, or ethnic differences, noting that sustainable development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of harmony. According to him, This season reminds us of the power of sacrifice and the importance of standing together as one people. Our constituency can only move forward when we are united in purpose and vision. Gbaroye also reiterated his...

By Afolabi Akinfenwa In a powerful display of grassroots engagement and community development, aspirant for the House of Representatives under the (PDP) has continued to win hearts across through impactful youth and educational support. At the recently held Inter-House Sports Competition in Idi Ose Primary School, the Gbaroye sponsored Blue House emerged overall winner, clinching 1st position in a thrilling and highly competitive event. The victory not only highlights the talent and determination of the pupils but also reflects Hon. Gbaroye’s commitment to nurturing young minds and promoting healthy competition at the grassroots level. His sponsorship of the Blue House stands as a testament to his belief in empowering the next generation. The event also celebrated unity and sportsmanship, as all participating houses showcased resilience and team spirit, making the competition a memorable one for the school community. Politically known as “OMO WA”, Hon. Gbaroye i...

NURTW NATIONAL PRESIDENT CELEBRATES PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU ON HIS 74TH BIRTHDAY The National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya (Mc Oluomo), has extended heartfelt congratulations to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the occasion of his 74th birthday. In a statement, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya described President Tinubu as an exceptional statesman, a courageous reformer, and a father figure whose leadership continues to inspire hope across the nation. He applauded President Tinubu’s landmark achievements since assuming office, particularly his bold economic reforms geared towards stabilising the nation’s economy, his drive for increased infrastructural development, and strategic initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at improving the living standards of Nigerians. The NURTW Boss highlighted the benefits of the Renewed Hope Agenda, including improved ro...

By Afolabi Akinfenwa  In a political climate often weighed down by repetition and recycled promises, a fresh and compelling movement is taking shape, OMO WA 2027. With a message rooted in identity, accountability, and grassroots connection, Hon. Seye Gbaroye is stepping forward with a vision that feels both personal and powerful for the people of Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency. More than just a campaign slogan, “Omo Wa” meaning “our own son ” is a declaration. It speaks to representation that is not distant or detached, but deeply connected to the everyday realities of the people. It signals a shift from politics as usual to leadership that listens, understands, and acts. Clad in the colors of the people and standing on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Gbaroye presents himself not just as a candidate, but as a symbol of hope. His campaign reflects a blend of youthful energy and community rooted experience, an uncommon combination in today’s...

The build up to the 2027 elections in Oyo State is gathering pace as Hon. Amb. Chief (Mrs.) Lamidi Rukayat Tolani Balogun continues to attract strong grassroots support. Popularly celebrated with the slogan “Obinrin Leyi!! Rukayat Lokan”, which promotes women’s inclusion in leadership, her campaign is fast growing into a powerful movement across Akinyele Constituency 1. Supporters and party faithful under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have intensified mobilization efforts, rallying behind her vision for inclusive governance, community development, and effective representation. Sponsored Ads With the bold message “2027 SUPPORT”, her campaign reflects readiness, credibility, and a clear commitment to delivering impactful leadership at the Oyo State House of Assembly. Observers note that her rising popularity is driven by her strong connection with the people, her track record of service, and her dedication to community growth. Chants ...

Igbega Communities Support Organisation (ICSO), a non-governmental organisation founded by a Germany-based business entrepreneur and governorship aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Chief Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu, has shown support to this year’s Inter-House Sports Competition of Community High School Ogungbade, Ibadan.   Chief Segelu, an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) consultant, in a statement he issued and made available to newsmen, said ICSO has always shown interest in programmes that are designed to bring about upliftment of children and promotion of positive community engagement. The statement reads: “Igbega Communities Support Organization (ICSO) has continued its impactful community outreach by supporting the inter-house sports competition at Community High School Ogungbade in Ibadan with cash donations. “The initiative reflects the organization’s longstanding commitment to youth development...

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, has issued a strong warning to the state’s environmental and traffic enforcement task force, declaring that the unit could be disbanded if ongoing allegations of misconduct are substantiated. Speaking during a press briefing on Saturday, Jimoh condemned what he described as a growing culture of unprofessional conduct among operatives, drawing a firm line against acts of extortion, abuse of power, and human rights violations. The warning comes amid increasing public complaints against members of the task force, with several residents accusing officers of harassment and unlawful extortion. Tensions escalated further following the circulation of a viral video showing operatives detaining lawyers over land disputes—a matter widely considered civil in nature and outside the jurisdiction of the police—sparking widespread outrage. Jimoh stressed that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary ac...

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, Chief Olayinka Segelu Akintola Oladimeji, has extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan, urging them to sustain the values of sacrifice, discipline and compassion imbibed during the period. In a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Thursday, Segelu congratulated Muslims across Oyo State and Nigeria for witnessing the end of Ramadan and celebrating Eid al-Fitr, describing it as a moment of spiritual renewal and gratitude to Almighty Allah. He commended the Muslim Ummah for their devotion, prayers and acts of charity throughout the fasting period, noting that such virtues are essential for fostering peaceful coexistence and societal progress. “Ramadan is a sacred period that teaches us patience, humility, selflessness and love for one another. As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, I urge all Muslims to continue to uphold these virtues in their daily live...