Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Secures Re-Election in 2026 Polls Amid Low Voter Turnout
Oyebanji’s victory cements APC’s hold on Ekiti; opposition parties question conduct, call for review of electoral process
Oyebanji’s victory cements APC’s hold on Ekiti; opposition parties question conduct, call for review of electoral process
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has emerged victorious in the 2026 governorship election held across the state on Saturday, securing a second term in office under the All Progressives Congress (APC). The election, which took place in all 16 local government areas of the South-West state, was characterised by low voter turnout and heightened security presence.
Collation of results from polling units and wards was concluded late Saturday night, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announcing Oyebanji as winner after he garnered the highest number of valid votes. The APC candidate’s margin over his closest rivals was described by observers as significant, consolidating his party’s grip on the state’s political landscape.
This victory is seen as a major boost for the APC ahead of the next general elections, given Ekiti’s strategic position in the South-West zone. Political analysts note that Oyebanji’s performance in his first term—especially in infrastructure development and public sector reforms—played a key role in swaying voters. However, several opposition parties have raised concerns about aspects of the electoral process, citing alleged irregularities and urging INEC to address complaints submitted by their agents.
In his post-election remarks, Governor Oyebanji thanked Ekiti people for renewed confidence in his leadership. “I am grateful for this mandate and will continue to prioritise development and good governance,” he stated after receiving his certificate of return from INEC officials. The PDP and Labour Party, meanwhile, issued statements contesting some results and calling for a review. “We are compiling evidence of alleged irregularities observed by our members across several LGAs,” a PDP spokesperson said.
The outcome is expected to shape political alignments in Ekiti ahead of national elections. INEC has pledged to review petitions submitted within the legal window while security agencies advised citizens to remain calm as the process moves forward.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kidnapped Family Regains Freedom in Oyo After Sunday Igboho Issues Two-Hour Ultimatum
Residents celebrate as victims, including pregnant woman and children, are released; police yet to confirm link to ultimatum
Residents celebrate as victims, including pregnant woman and children, are released; police yet to confirm link to ultimatum
A kidnapped family, comprising a pregnant woman, her children and a relative, was released late Wednesday in Igboho, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, just hours after Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo (popularly known as Sunday Igboho) issued a two-hour ultimatum for their release. The victims returned home to jubilation from residents who had gathered anxiously following news of the abduction.
According to reports and videos circulating online, the family had been abducted earlier in the week, sparking outrage and fear among locals in Igboho. The situation escalated when Igboho—who hails from the area—released a video on social media accusing some residents of complicity and warning that he would not tolerate further insecurity. He stated that he was exercising restraint only because traditional rulers had appealed for calm. Igboho then gave an ultimatum of two hours for the kidnappers to release their captives or face unspecified consequences.
This incident comes amid heightened concern over repeated cases of kidnapping and killings in Oyo State and across the South-West geopolitical zone. Community leaders have repeatedly called on security agencies to address insecurity in rural areas. Sunday Igboho rose to national prominence in 2021 after leading campaigns against banditry and violent attacks targeting farming communities in Oyo and neighbouring states.
While videos shared online show residents singing and dancing as the victims arrived home, police authorities are yet to officially confirm whether their release was directly linked to Igboho’s ultimatum. The Oyo State Police Command has not issued a statement on arrests or ongoing investigations as at press time.
The development has triggered widespread reaction on social media, with many praising the swift return of the abductees while others urged government to intensify efforts at tackling insecurity. Some commentators have called for thorough investigation into the circumstances of the kidnapping and demanded that those responsible be brought to justice.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Aare Lai Labode Leads Johnnie Walker Blue Label Campaign Honouring Fatherhood and Heritage
Ogun traditional leader features in new campaign spotlighting generational values, cultural pride and quiet progress for Father’s Day
Ogun traditional leader features in new campaign spotlighting generational values, cultural pride and quiet progress for Father’s Day
Aare (Prof) Lai Labode, renowned cultural figure and Aare of Egbaland, has been unveiled as the face of a new Johnnie Walker Blue Label Father’s Day campaign in Lagos. The initiative, launched on Friday to mark the annual celebration, aims to recognise the enduring influence of fatherhood and the significance of legacy in Nigerian society.
The campaign, titled “Still Walking,” showcases Aare Labode’s journey as a custodian of Yoruba culture and a fashion entrepreneur. Through this partnership with Johnnie Walker Blue Label, organisers say the programme celebrates both the quiet determination that defines many fathers and the rich traditions passed down across generations. The campaign video highlights Labode’s contributions to Egbaland and his role as a mentor within his community.
According to Johnnie Walker representatives at the Lagos launch event, Aare Labode was selected for his commitment to cultural advancement and exemplary leadership. The company said the campaign seeks to inspire Nigerians to reflect on their own family histories while appreciating those who have shaped them. “We want to celebrate fathers whose stories speak to progress, resilience and heritage,” a spokesperson said during remarks at the unveiling.
Stakeholders in Ogun State praised the collaboration for promoting indigenous identity at a time when many young people are seeking role models with strong cultural roots. Community leaders noted that featuring an accomplished figure like Aare Labode would help encourage pride among younger generations and strengthen ties within families. There was also positive reaction from fashion industry observers who described Labode’s inclusion as recognition for local talent on an international stage.
The Father’s Day campaign is expected to run through June, with Johnnie Walker Blue Label planning further events across South-West states. Organisers say more initiatives spotlighting notable Nigerian fathers are in development as part of ongoing efforts to honour legacies and promote intergenerational dialogue.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Troops Overrun Bandits’ Camp in Kogi, Rescue Two Kidnap Victims
Operation in Koton Karfe LGA follows recent abductions; military vows to sustain pressure on criminal groups
Operation in Koton Karfe LGA follows recent abductions; military vows to sustain pressure on criminal groups
Nigerian Army troops have dismantled a suspected bandits’ hideout in Koton Karfe Local Government Area of Kogi State, rescuing two kidnapped victims during an operation on Sunday. The military confirmed the rescue and destruction of the camp as part of ongoing efforts to curb armed criminality in the North-Central state.
According to official statements, soldiers stormed the camp after receiving intelligence about the presence of armed men believed to be responsible for recent kidnappings along key roads linking Kogi with neighbouring states. The rescued individuals were immediately given medical attention and reunited with their families, while troops recovered various items left behind by fleeing suspects.
Kogi State has witnessed a surge in bandit activities and abductions along highways and rural communities in recent months, raising concerns among residents and travellers. Security agencies have intensified joint operations in affected LGAs, targeting hideouts used by criminal gangs for ransom-related crimes.
A military spokesperson said the operation demonstrates government’s resolve to restore peace and secure lives across all parts of Kogi. “Our troops are working round the clock to ensure that bandits and other criminals are denied any safe haven within the state,” the spokesperson noted. No details were provided about arrests or casualties among the suspects.
Security forces pledged to maintain aggressive patrols and appealed for continued cooperation from local communities, urging residents to report suspicious movements. The rescued victims expressed gratitude for their safe release, while authorities assured that similar operations would continue until all criminal elements are flushed out from Kogi’s forests.
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