Police Clampdown in Ijebu Ode: A Direct Assault on Democracy and Civic Freedom By Ayo Mojoyin

Police Clampdown in Ijebu Ode: A Direct Assault on Democracy and Civic Freedom By Ayo Mojoyin

Tension gripped Ijebu Ode on Wednesday following a controversial security operation that saw heavily armed operatives lay siege to key locations ahead of the BAT/OGD Empowerment Tour.

Reports confirm that officers, believed to be acting under the authority of the Nigeria Police Force, stormed the Obanta Club and sealed off access routes leading to the residence of former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel. The sweeping restriction effectively shut out supporters, organisers, and community participants expected to be part of the empowerment programme.

Eyewitness accounts describe a coordinated show of force, with strategic roadblocks mounted across major entry points in Ijebu Ode. Movement was severely restricted, creating an atmosphere of intimidation that stands in stark contrast to the democratic ideals Nigeria claims to uphold.

The BAT/OGD Empowerment Tour widely regarded as a grassroots-driven initiative aligned with the political philosophy of Bola Ahmed Tinubu has, in recent months, served as a platform for community engagement, economic support, and constituency-based evaluation. Its growing acceptance across Ogun East makes the timing and nature of this police action not only suspicious but deeply troubling.

There is, as of now, no official explanation from the authorities to justify what many are already describing as an unjustifiable suppression of a lawful civic engagement. The silence from the police hierarchy only reinforces concerns about political interference and abuse of state power.

Let’s be clear: deploying armed security personnel to obstruct a peaceful empowerment initiative is not law enforcement it is repression. It sends a dangerous signal that political participation, when it does not align with certain interests, will be met with force.

This development must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive under the shadow of intimidation. The right to assemble, to engage, and to mobilise at the grassroots level is not a privilege granted by those in power it is a constitutional guarantee.

What played out in Ijebu Ode is not just an isolated incident, it is a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience and if left unchecked, it sets a precedent that could embolden further acts of political suppression.

The people of Ogun East and indeed all Nigerians deserve better than this calculated display of force. The authorities must explain themselves, and more importantly, they must be held accountable.

~ Ayo Mojoyin Is a media practitioner and former NGIJ National President

"After 11years Of Marriage,I Woke Up To Videos,Pictures Of My Wife On IG,Married To Another Man–Ekpo

"After 11years Of Marriage,I Woke Up To Videos,Pictures Of My Wife On IG,Married To Another Man–Ekpo

According to a report by The Cable on Monday, April 20, 2026, Roby Ekpo, a comedian and radio presenter, has spoken about challenges surrounding his estranged marriage with his wife, Mayowa Lambe, sharing details of what he described as a difficult and emotional period in his personal life.

The discussion emerged in an upcoming episode of the Honest Bunch podcast, where he reflected on events that he said led to the breakdown of the marriage after many years together.

In the conversation, Ekpo recounted that the marriage lasted for about 11 years before he became aware of developments that changed the course of their relationship.

He stated that he unexpectedly came across online content suggesting that his wife had entered into another marriage with a different man.

According to his account, the discovery came through videos and pictures circulating on social media, which he said left him surprised and struggling to understand the situation at the time.

He said, “After 11 years of marriage, I woke up to videos and pictures of my wife on Instagram getting married to another man.”

He further explained that the situation created emotional distress, especially given the length of time they had been together.

Ekpo described the experience as one that made him question earlier aspects of their relationship.

He suggested that he had believed the marriage was still intact before the emergence of the social media content that indicated otherwise.

His account focused on how the development unfolded and how it affected his perception of the relationship.

The media personality also made additional claims regarding issues within the marriage, including concerns about trust and communication.

He stated that he felt misled during the course of the relationship and raised allegations about decisions that were made privately without his knowledge.

One of the issues he mentioned involved family planning matters, where he suggested that contraceptive use was involved, which he believed affected their ability to have children during the marriage.

NGIJ Celebrates Media Icon, Moji Makanjuola at 70, Hails Legacy of Public-Interest Journalism

NGIJ Celebrates Media Icon, Moji Makanjuola at 70, Hails Legacy of Public-Interest Journalism

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has congratulated renowned journalist, broadcaster, and public health advocate, Chief (Dr.) Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, MFR, on the occasion of her 70th birthday, describing her as a defining voice in Nigeria’s media and development landscape.

In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by the President of the Guild, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, the Guild said Aunty Moji’s life and career represent a rare blend of professionalism, compassion, and purposeful service, noting that she has consistently demonstrated how journalism can be deployed as a tool for national development, social transformation, and public enlightenment.

NGIJ recalled her distinguished career at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she built a reputation for integrity and depth, particularly in health and gender reporting. The Guild noted that her work marked a turning point in Nigerian journalism, as she moved beyond conventional reporting to embrace advocacy-driven storytelling that informs, educates, and saves lives.

According to the Guild, Makanjuola is widely regarded as a pioneer of health journalism in Nigeria, having bridged the gap between expert knowledge and public understanding. Through her efforts, critical issues such as maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS awareness, and disease prevention gained national attention, contributing to behavioural change and policy influence.

The statement also highlighted her leadership role in the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), where she served as National President and championed the advancement of women in media, strengthened professional standards, and promoted gender-sensitive reporting across the country.

NGIJ further commended her visionary establishment of the International Society for Media in Public Health (ISMPH), describing it as a landmark platform that has trained journalists, driven impactful health communication campaigns, and bridged the gap between the media, policymakers, and development partners.

The Guild noted that beyond her professional accomplishments, Aunty Moji remains a mentor, mother figure, and philanthropist whose influence has shaped generations of journalists and inspired countless youths, women, and vulnerable groups, adding that her conferment with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) is a fitting recognition of her contributions.

While celebrating her at 70, NGIJ urged media practitioners to emulate her legacy of integrity, courage, and public-interest journalism, emphasizing that her life’s work continues to demonstrate that the true power of the media lies in its ability to inform, inspire, and transform society.

Politics2027: Peter Obi, Kwankwaso supporters collapse structures into OK Movement

Politics2027: Peter Obi, Kwankwaso supporters collapse structures into OK Movement

Ahead of the 2027 presidential election, supporters of Peter Obi and those of Rabiu Kwankwaso have collapsed their structures into OK Movement.

A statement signed by Justin Ijeh, its National Publicity Secretary, said that they believe that national renewal is not the task of a single tribe, but the duty of a united people.

The new Movement has vowed to unite Nigerians across divides to confront hardship, restore accountable leadership, and drive a decisive national rebirth.

The statement said: “Nigeria stands at a defining crossroads. Today, as our people endure the weight of unprecedented economic hardship, the soaring cost of living, and the persistent shadow of insecurity, the Obi–Kwankwaso (OK) Movement formally announces the unveiling of its national and state structures.

“This is more than a political milestone; it is the birth of a coordinated, nationwide engine for systemic reform and national rebirth.

“We recognise the exhaustion felt in every Nigerian household. From the farmer unable to harvest in safety to the entrepreneur stifled by a volatile economy, the struggle is real. Yet, in this moment of darkness, the OK Movement stands as a beacon of resolute hope.

“Our mission is anchored in a singular, unwavering conviction: Nigeria will be OK. We do not offer mere rhetoric; we offer a structured, disciplined pathway towards a country that works, not for the few, but for every citizen.

“The OK Movement is a home for all well-meaning Nigerians. We reject the tired politics of tribalism, regionalism, and religious sentiment that have long been used to keep our people divided while the nation falters.

“Our strength lies in our diversity, and our progress depends on our unity. We are mobilising from the grassroots to the capital, fostering a shared identity built on integrity, competence, and the collective responsibility to rescue our future. We believe that national renewal is not the task of a single tribe, but the duty of a united people.

“Our vision is deeply rooted in the highest aspirations of our land. We are guided by the profound prayer found in the third stanza of our National Anthem: ‘Oh God of all creation, grant this our one request. Help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed, and so, with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed.’

“This is not merely a lyric; it is our blueprint. We seek to build a Nigeria where justice is a right, not a privilege, a nation where ‘plenty’ is shared through economic stability, and ‘peace’ is secured through decisive leadership.

“This is an open invitation to every Nigerian who believes that our current reality need not be our final destiny.

“Through solidarity, purposeful leadership, and the courage to demand better, we will prevail. The structures are set. The vision is clear. The movement is here. Together, we will make Nigeria OK.”

The extradition and handover of Hammed Akanbi (popularly known as Ahmed Ajiran) by Interpol

The extradition and handover of Hammed Akanbi (popularly known as Ahmed Ajiran) by Interpol to the Nigerian Police marks a major turning point in a multi-year murder investigation that has gripped the Ajiran community in Lagos.

Hammed Akanbi, a prominent businessman and CEO of Amtachek and Amrok Markham Company, was declared wanted by the Lagos State Police Command in February 2026. He is the prime suspect accused of masterminding the brutal murders of two prominent figures in the Ajiran community:

Sheriff Isola Salami: Assassinated on April 18, 2023, at an isolated building.Prince Ademola Akinloye: Shot and killed on August 26, 2024, in the Eti-Osa area.The breakthrough in the case occurred when the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed the arrest of two alleged hitmen, Sefiu Fatai (alias Fabo) and Yusuf Ismail (alias Baraka).

The suspects confessed to being hired by Akanbi to carry out the killings.They alleged they were paid ₦2 million for the assignments, with each member of the gang receiving ₦500,000.The weapons used included local pistols, axes, and machetes.Following the confession of the hitmen, Akanbi fled the country, leading the Nigerian Police Force to request an Interpol Red Notice.

The handover signifies the culmination of international cooperation to track Akanbi down. His return to Nigeria is seen as a significant victory for the "Justice for Ajiran" movement, which has seen community members and youths staging protests to demand accountability for the fallen princes.

Akanbi has been taken into custody by the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and is expected to face multiple counts of conspiracy and murder at the Federal High Court. Legal experts and community leaders are monitoring the case closely, as it involves long-dormant murder probes that were only recently revived by the current police leadership.

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A 21-year-old woman from Ipele in the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State has accused a traditional ruler in her community of impregnating her

A 21-year-old woman from Ipele in the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State has accused a traditional ruler in her community of impregnating her, coercing her into terminating the pregnancy, and subjecting her to threats, intimidation, and harassment.

The victim, Ifemide Kehinde, alleged that the monarch — whom she described as the Kabiyesi of her town — initially proposed to make her his second wife before the relationship turned abusive.

“Sir, my name is Ifemide Kehinde, 21 years old, from Ipele, Owo Local Government, Ondo State. I humbly seek your assistance regarding an issue between me and the Kabiyesi of my town. He proposed to me to be his second wife and I agreed,” she said.

Kehinde explained that the relationship led to pregnancy, which she claimed the monarch insisted must be terminated under threats.

“We had sex together and I got pregnant. He threatened me to abort it, which I did. I bled for three weeks and he ignored me. He has treated me unjustly,” she told SaharaReporters.

According to her, the situation worsened after the abortion, as she allegedly suffered prolonged health complications without support from the monarch.

“I went to the hospital when I was bleeding. They asked me to do a scan but it was weekend, everywhere was closed. I had to use the little money I had to buy drugs and pads. After taking the drugs for five days, the bleeding stopped, but I have been feeling pains since then, every month,” she said.

Kehinde further alleged that the monarch used intermediaries, including aides and associates, to send her money for the abortion and later intimidate her into silence.

“He didn’t give me the money directly. He sent his civil defence to send it through POS. I didn’t want to abort it, but he threatened to kill me. He said I would go missing,” she alleged.

The young woman also accused the monarch of orchestrating harassment campaigns against her, including giving her phone number to others who allegedly insulted and defamed her.

“This is the girl Kabiyesi gave my number to be abusing me. She cursed me and said I have aborted three pregnancies and that my womb is spoiled. Everything is in the voice notes,” she said.

She added that multiple individuals, including a woman identified as Tomiwa and a man named Kazeem, allegedly confirmed aspects of the incident in voice recordings she claimed to possess.

“There are many voice notes—of him, the girl he gave my number to, his media aide, his civil defence, his friend, even his cousin. They are all involved,” Kehinde said.

She further alleged a pattern of misconduct by the monarch involving other young women in the palace.

“One of the girls said she is tired of him, that he is a womaniser and what he is doing with young girls in the palace is too much. She said she would not come back to the palace again,” Kehinde claimed.

The victim said she had submitted petitions to the Commissioner of Police, the Ondo State Governor, and the Chieftaincy Affairs office but had yet to receive justice.

“Despite submitting petitions, it appears his influence is affecting the process. I have all necessary evidence and copies of the petitions submitted,” she said.

Recounting continued threats, Kehinde added, “He called me on April 1 and started threatening me again. He didn’t allow me to speak and was laying curses on those supporting me. He wants to kill me. Please help me, I am dying.”

She also claimed that police investigations had begun, including visits to locations connected to the incident.

“Police have visited the hotel and the manager confirmed it to them. I also took the police to where I bought the drugs,” she said.

ISWAP attack military base in Borno kill five soldiers

ISWAP attack military base in Borno kill five soldiers

Five Nigerian soldiers were reportedly killed on Friday, April 17, 2026, when suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked a military base in Mussa village, Borno State.Nigerian cultural insights

According to militia sources who spoke to AFP, the insurgents stormed the base before being repelled by troops. Following the attack, clashes were also reported in nearby Leho village.

 

FG Bans Importation of Paracetamol, Painkillers, Other Essential Drugs

FG Bans Importation of Paracetamol, Painkillers, Other Essential Drugs

The Federal Government has announced a sweeping ban on the importation of several essential goods, including widely used drugs such as paracetamol and other painkillers.

The decision is part of a revised import prohibition list aimed at strengthening local industries and reducing pressure on foreign exchange.

The updated directive, released by the Federal Ministry of Finance and dated April 1, 2026, outlines seventeen categories of items that are no longer allowed into the country through any port.

The move signals a tougher stance by authorities as they push for increased local production across key sectors.

One of the most striking aspects of the policy is the restriction placed on pharmaceutical products. The government has banned the importation of commonly used medicines, including paracetamol tablets and syrups, metronidazole, cotrimoxazole, and chloroquine. Other essential drugs such as aspirin, folic acid, and multivitamins are also affected.

Ointments and antibiotics, including penicillin and gentamycin, have also been placed on the prohibited list. With this, the responsibility for supplying these critical healthcare products now shifts almost entirely to local pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Authorities insist the move will encourage growth in the domestic drug industry and reduce dependence on foreign supplies.

The directive also maintains a strict ban on the importation of pharmaceutical waste, reinforcing concerns about public health and environmental safety.

Beyond healthcare, the government has extended restrictions to the agricultural sector. The importation of poultry, whether live or frozen, remains banned. This includes birds and related products under various classifications. Pork, beef, and eggs are also restricted, although limited exceptions have been made for specialized breeding and research purposes.

In the food segment, refined vegetable oils packaged in small retail sizes have been prohibited. However, crude vegetable oils and certain industrial fats are still allowed into the country for manufacturing purposes. The policy appears designed to support local refining capacity while keeping industrial production running.

The ban also affects several everyday consumer goods. Items such as sugar in retail packs, tomato paste, and bottled water are now restricted. The government is clearly targeting products that can be produced locally, in a bid to stimulate domestic industries and create jobs.

The hygiene sector has not been left out. All forms of soaps and detergents meant for retail sale are now barred from importation. This is expected to boost local manufacturers, although it may raise concerns about supply and pricing in the short term.

Even simple items like ballpoint pens and their refills have been included in the prohibition list, though pen tips are still allowed for importation. This suggests a push to encourage local assembly and production.

In the industrial sector, restrictions have been maintained on materials such as bagged cement and certain fertilizers. Packaging materials like cartons and paper boards also remain banned, alongside specific glass products and steel sheets.

With the Nigeria Customs Service set to begin full enforcement, importers and businesses are expected to adjust quickly. Failure to comply could lead to seizure of goods and possible legal action.

The policy is already generating reactions from stakeholders, especially in the health sector, where concerns are growing over whether local manufacturers can meet the nation’s demand for essential medicines.Nigerian business directory

When I Went to America, I Met a White Man and He Begged Me to Stay Back and Marry Him - Adewunmi

When I Went to America, I Met a White Man and He Begged Me to Stay Back and Marry Him - Adewunmi

Yoruba Nollywood actress Juwon Adewunmi has opened up about her long break from the screen and the surprising love story behind it.

Speaking in an interview on Talk to B podcast, Adewunmi explained why fans have seen less of her in recent years.

She shared how a trip to America changed her life completely.

During that visit, she met a white man who begged her to stay back and marry him instead of returning to Nigeria.

Adewunmi did not agree right away. She told him that if he truly wanted to marry her, he would have to come to Nigeria first.

She insisted on doing all the necessary family rites and introduction according to Yoruba custom.

The man agreed. They got married. After the wedding, her husband advised her to wait until she had the proper papers.

He wanted her to be able to go in and out of the country anytime without trouble. He also promised not to disturb her acting career.

That waiting period took time. Processing the documents was slow, as it often is.

Adewunmi stayed mostly off the movie set during those years. Now, she said God has done it. She has her papers and can travel freely.

Her words: "When I went to America, I met a white man. He begged me to stay back with him and not return to Nigeria. I told him that if he really wanted to marry me, he would have to come to Nigeria to do the necessary rites and introduction. We got married. He then told me to wait until I had papers that would allow me to go in and out of the country anytime I liked. He said he was not going to disturb my career. That was how we started. And you know it takes time to process the papers and all. Now, God has done it, and I can now go in and out freely."

Brig.-Gen, 17 soldiers feared killed by Boko Haram in Borno’

‘Brig.-Gen, 17 soldiers feared killed by Boko Haram in Borno’

Jihadists in northeast Nigeria killed several troops including a brigadier general in an assault on a military base, local government and intelligence sources told AFP on Thursday, the second killing of a high-ranking officer in five months.

Violence is surging across the country’s mostly Muslim north, with at least 90 people killed by gunmen in several remote villages since Sunday night, according to an AFP tally of tolls given by local, humanitarian and church sources.

Why We Dismissed Soldier Who Told Politicians To Send Their Children To Battlefield

Why We Dismissed Soldier Who Told Politicians To Send Their Children To Battlefield 

The Nigerian Army has given reasons for dismissing former soldier Rotimi Olamilekan, also known as Soja Boi.

Naija News reports that the army said his dismissal was due to repeated acts of indiscipline and not because of his viral video about political leaders.

The clarification was made on Tuesday in a statement released by Appolonia Anele, who serves as the Acting Director of Army Public Relations.

The Army explained that Olamilekan’s removal followed several violations of military rules, including breaking the Armed Forces’ social media guidelines.

The Army stated that its operations are guided by strict rules and that every soldier is expected to follow them.

It explained that actions such as appearing in the media without approval, using military identity for personal gain, creating content linked to politics, and wearing military uniform inappropriately go against its regulations.

According to the statement, Olamilekan’s case was handled through proper military procedures before the final decision was taken.

The military body also said it remains focused on discipline, accountability, and the welfare of its personnel.

It added that decisions about postings and duties are based on operational needs and not influenced by public opinion.

The Army urged Nigerians to ignore claims suggesting that the soldier was punished for speaking about the challenges faced by troops. It described such reports as misleading and aimed at gaining public sympathy.

It also warned that spreading unverified information could weaken trust in the military and affect the morale of soldiers.

Olamilekan became widely known in February 2026 after posting a video where he called on governors, senators, and ministers to allow their children join the military at lower ranks so they could understand what soldiers experience.

The video gained attention across social media and led to mixed reactions from the public.

Following the video, people close to him claimed he was arrested and kept in custody for weeks, which led to an online campaign demanding his release.

After regaining freedom in March 2026, he thanked supporters who spoke up for him during that period.

NGIJ to Security Chiefs, Act Now or Step Aside

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has issued a strongly worded Easter message, condemning worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action from security chiefs.

In a statement signed by its National President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild said Nigeria must confront its security failures without delay.

The Guild congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the Easter celebration, noting that the season crowns weeks of sacrifice, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

It also acknowledged that Muslims recently concluded Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr, describing both religious observances as powerful symbols of discipline and devotion.

NGIJ said the overlapping spiritual journeys of Christians and Muslims highlight a shared national lesson on unity and peaceful coexistence.

However, the Guild warned that the current security reality contradicts those values, as many communities continue to live in utter dread.

It described the recent killings in Jos as a grim reminder of deep cracks within the nation’s security architecture pointing out that the violence goes beyond headlines, insisting that it reflects systemic failure.

NGIJ condemned the bloodshed in the strongest terms possible and criticised what it called the growing helplessness of authorities. It argued that routine condemnations and post-attack visits by the relevant authorities saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties no longer satisfy public expectations.

The statement stressed that repeated promises without visible results only deepen public frustration and grief.

NGIJ maintained that every Nigerian deserves safety at home, in places of worship, and in public spaces while stressing that government must treat that responsibility as a non-negotiable duty.

The Guild urged security chiefs to respond with urgency, intelligence, and clear results. It insisted that those unable to guarantee safety should step aside for more capable leadership.

NGIJ also clarified that its position reflects a moral duty rather than political bias while noting that Easter symbolises sacrifice, accountability, and renewal, adding that real change requires courage and action.

It warned Nigerians against yielding to fear or division despite the tense climate and encouraged citizens to protect unity and resist forces that thrive on chaos.

The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to investigative journalism, promising to pursue truth and hold power accountable. It also pledged to amplify the voices of victims often ignored in national discourse.

NGIJ concluded that hope must translate into action, urging the nation to confront its challenges with urgency.

NGIJ, NILDS Set Stage for Collaboration to Deepen Governance and Accountability

NGIJ, NILDS Set Stage for Collaboration to Deepen Governance and Accountability

The leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) recently paid a courtesy visit to the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abuja, as part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen investigative journalism and deepen democratic accountability.

The visit focused on establishing a strategic partnership aimed at improving legislative reporting through training, joint research, policy dialogues, data sharing, and fellowship opportunities for our members. We also highlighted the Guild’s ongoing activities, particularly our Governance Assessment Visits across several states.

NILDS responded positively to our proposals, acknowledging the importance of collaboration between journalists and legislative institutions. The Institute expressed willingness to support capacity-building initiatives and consider our requests for a formal partnership.

We also formally notified NILDS of our planned Dele Giwa Memorial Annual Lecture and requested the use of their facility, as well as the participation of the Director-General as keynote speaker. These requests were well received and are being considered.

Overall, the visit was highly productive and marks the beginning of a promising collaboration that will create valuable opportunities for members and strengthen our collective impact.

Signed

President, NGIJ