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The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Ondo State-Owned Tertiary Institutions has issued a fresh 7-day ultimatum to the Ondo State Government over its failure to implement the 2025 approved budgetary allocations to tertiary institutions in the state.

In a letter addressed to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and dated April 27, 2025, the committee expressed deep concern over what it described as the government’s persistent neglect of financial responsibilities to the state’s four tertiary institutions, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko; Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa; University of Medical Sciences, Ondo; and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo.

The letter, jointly signed by JAC Chairman Comrade A. Olutayo Ogungbeni and Secretary Comrade Kunle Akinwonmi, highlighted several unresolved issues, including non-payment of the 2024 National Minimum Wage, non-release of withheld subventions since 2017, outstanding salary arrears of over 54 months, and the continued payment of the outdated N18,000 minimum wage at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic.

JAC condemned what it described as “government propaganda” on subvention increments and cited Ekiti State’s recent 300% increase in allocations as a benchmark the oil-producing Ondo State should follow.

Efforts to resolve the matter through official channels, including appeals to the Governor’s Special Adviser on Union Matters, have reportedly failed.

The group warned that failure to meet its demands within 7 days would lead to a total shutdown of all four institutions, a move that could disrupt academic activities and further impact students.

Renowned philanthropist and founder of Dorian Home for Charity and Social Development in Akure, Dr. Tolulola Olajibike Bayode, is set to lay her father, Chief Joseph Agboola Bayode, to rest. The funeral rites are scheduled to commence on Wednesday, April 30, and conclude on Friday, May 2, 2025, in Oba Ile, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Chief Joseph Agboola Bayode passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 85. He was celebrated for his humility, wisdom, and unwavering support for his daughter’s humanitarian endeavors. He often spoke of Dr. Bayode’s lifelong commitment to uplifting the less privileged, noting her early acts of kindness within their family and community.

Dr. Bayode, a medical professional and humanitarian, established Dorian Home in 2021 to provide shelter, education, and care for orphans, widows, and vulnerable individuals. The facility has since become one of the largest privately-run orphanages in Africa, housing over 100 children and employing approximately 60 staff members. Her dedication to social welfare has earned her numerous accolades, including the U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding service to humanity.

The upcoming funeral is expected to draw dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond, all coming together to honor the life and legacy of Chief Bayode. Dr. Bayode has expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support during this period of mourning, stating that her father’s values and teachings will continue to guide her mission of compassion and service.

In a stunning development, the sponsors and procuring entity behind the controversial N85 million Yaba Youth Empowerment Project have failed to appear in court or file any defense, a move interpreted by Ekimogun Roundtable as an attempt to avoid public embarrassment and ridicule.

The lawsuit, filed by the Ekimogun Roundtable, alleged grave violations of fundamental principles, including the absence of a proper needs assessment, lack of community engagement, and breaches of established procurement protocols, all critical to ensuring transparency, accountability, and authentic community-driven development.

“The defendants’ refusal or inability to respond to these serious allegations not only vindicates the Ekimogun Roundtable’s position but also underscores the fact that the Yaba community may have been shortchanged and misrepresented by those entrusted to serve their interests.

Their sudden disappearance has deepened public suspicion and raised legitimate concerns over the integrity of the project’s conception and execution. Effective youth empowerment demands projects that are rooted in authentic needs assessments, shaped through genuine community participation, and implemented with full adherence to transparent and fair procurement processes. Any deviation from these principles ultimately betrays the very beneficiaries such initiatives claim to serve.” The group said. 

Reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the Ekimogun Roundtable stressed that development projects must respect due process, inclusivity, and uphold the highest ethical standards. The group called on all parties involved, especially the project sponsors and procuring entity, to act transparently, take full responsibility, and implement corrective measures that can restore public trust.

The group emphasized that its only interest in the matter is to ensure that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries within a reasonable timeframe. It vowed to continue monitoring developments and advocating for outcomes that truly honor the voices of Yaba youth and the broader Ondo East/West Federal Constituency.

The matter has been adjourned to May 5, 2025, for further hearing.

 

A resident of Ora Ekiti in Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Mr. Boluwaji Emmanuel Oyeniran, has addressed an open letter to Senator Cyril Fasuyi, the lawmaker representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, over what he described as the persistent neglect of his community in the senator’s developmental programmes.

In the letter dated April 23, 2025, and obtained by SunshineReporters, Mr. Oyeniran expressed the growing frustration of Ora Ekiti residents who, according to him, have been completely sidelined from constituency empowerment schemes, employment opportunities, and infrastructural interventions since Senator Fasuyi took office.

“Ora Ekiti is one of the loyal and supportive communities that stood firmly with you during the 2023 general elections. Our sons and daughters turned out in significant numbers to cast their votes for you,” the letter reads.

The open letter noted that despite their political support, the town is yet to benefit from the senator’s initiatives. Mr. Oyeniran pointedly highlighted the case of a damaged electricity transformer, which has left the entire community in darkness for almost a year, stalling local businesses and impacting livelihoods.

He appealed to the senator to urgently intervene in restoring power to the town and to ensure Ora Ekiti is captured in future projects targeting youth empowerment, educational development, and infrastructure.

“We are a resilient and hardworking people, eager to contribute meaningfully to the progress of our senatorial district if given the opportunity,” he added.

While acknowledging the challenges involved in serving a broad and diverse senatorial district, the writer stressed that every town deserves fair representation and visible impact.

As at press time, Senator Fasuyi is yet to respond to the concerns raised in the letter.

Residents of Ora Ekiti are hopeful that this public appeal will prompt timely action and renewed attention to the community’s developmental needs.

According to The Africa Report, the meeting took place in London last week, shortly after Tinubu left Paris.

The meeting, it was learnt, was at the insistence of Governor Fubara, who has been desperate to return to office since the president declared a state of emergency in oil-rich Rivers State.

During the meeting, Fubara promised to make some compromises. 

Negotiations are ongoing, but from all indications, his suspension will be lifted before the six-month deadline,” said an adviser to the president who wished to remain anonymous because he was not authorised to speak to the press.

Another presidential aide said Fubara is also open to joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to ingratiate himself with the president and then obtain cover.

“If Fubara joins the APC, it means the president’s chances of winning Rivers State are much higher,” he says.

The Africa Report was informed that Fubara’s estranged godfather, Nyesom Wike, was not part of the meeting and was uncomfortable with such meetings taking place behind his back.

However, Tinubu is expected to broker a meeting between Fubara, Wike, and the Rivers State lawmakers to find a lasting solution to the crisis in the state.

 

The AAUA NANS Stakeholders’ Forum, a coalition of former student leaders who have represented Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) at various levels of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has passionately appealed to the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to urgently intervene in the poor state of the road leading to the institution.

In a formal appeal dated April 18, 2025, signed by Comrade Ogunade Adebola Oluwakayode, popularly known as Kdivine, the Chairman of the Forum and former Students’ Union President, the group lauded the Governor’s efforts in infrastructure development across the state. They specifically acknowledged the approval of the Akure-Idanre road dualisation project and recent renovations in secondary and technical schools, describing these as commendable strides in youth and educational development.

Despite these interventions, the stakeholders expressed grave concern over the deplorable condition of the road linking Akungba-Akoko to other parts of the state. They described the road as a critical lifeline that has been left to deteriorate, posing serious risks to lives, limiting access to the university, and hindering economic and social growth in the host community.

According to the statement, “This road, which serves as the main gateway to AAUA, remains in a terrible state despite the university’s continued excellence in academics, groundbreaking research, sports, and student achievements. Its poor condition has resulted in frequent accidents and has discouraged vital engagements with investors, researchers, and prospective students.”

They further emphasized that AAUA remains one of the most sought-after institutions in Nigeria and continues to raise the profile of Ondo State nationally and globally. However, the current state of its access road does not reflect the level of progress the university has made over the years.

The Forum therefore urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to prioritize the construction, rehabilitation, and potential dualisation of the road as part of his broader educational transformation agenda. They expressed confidence that with the Governor’s swift intervention, the long-standing issue would be resolved, bringing lasting relief to thousands of students, staff, residents, and commuters.

“We trust your leadership and believe your swift intervention will bring lasting relief to students, staff, and the Akungba community at large,” the letter concluded.

The AAUA NANS Stakeholders’ Forum reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the development of the university and the welfare of its students, leveraging their experiences within the national student movement to push for meaningful change.

 

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Rt. Hon. Bakkita Olufowobi Bello (PhD), has been honoured with a prestigious chieftaincy title, Olukoju of Odooko-Afa Okeagbe Akoko, by His Royal Majesty, Oba Mofolorunso Adegboyega Arasanyin, the Ajana of Afa and Okeladeokin, Arole Agba I of Okeagbe Akoko.

The conferment ceremony took place on Friday, April 18, 2025, and was greeted with celebrations and goodwill from party members, political stakeholders, and community leaders.

In a congratulatory statement issued by the PDP’s Director of Media and Publicity in Ondo State, Mr. Leye Igbabo, the party described Dr. Bello’s recognition as well-deserved, citing his exemplary leadership and integrity.

“Our party is proud of the sterling qualities of sincerity, probity, and maturity that Dr. Bakkita Bello has brought to bear since assuming leadership of the PDP in Ondo State,” the statement read.

The party further noted that Dr. Bello’s past public service, including his tenure as Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly and as Chairman of the State Teaching Service Commission, showcased his administrative capacity, academic depth, and political sagacity.

According to the statement, his humility and simplicity in positions of high authority have endeared him to both political associates and the general public.

“We believe this chieftaincy title will further motivate our Chairman to deepen his service to the people of Odooko-Afa and beyond. We pray for divine wisdom, a sound mind, and long life for him as he assumes this traditional role,” the statement concluded.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has extended warm greetings to Christians across the state and beyond as they celebrate Easter, calling on leaders at all levels to emulate the selfless virtues of Jesus Christ.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Leye Igbabo, the PDP urged Christian faithful to reflect on the deep love, compassion, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which form the core of the Easter message.

The party noted that the significance of Easter should inspire not only spiritual reflection but also a rededication to values that promote peace, justice, and good governance.

“Our party invites the faithful to reflect on the enormous love, compassion, empathy, perseverance, and the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus Christ made to save the world from eternal perdition,” the statement read.

Lamenting the current hardship faced by citizens, the PDP accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of what it described as “criminal neglect” and “sheer irresponsiveness” in governance, both at the state and federal levels.

“The party calls on the government at all levels to follow the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ by prioritizing the needs of the people far above their self-serving interests,” Igbabo said.

Drawing a symbolic connection between the sufferings of Christ and the plight of Nigerians, the PDP highlighted the apparent indifference of the people during Christ’s passion, noting that His sacrifice was ultimately acknowledged and celebrated.

Reaffirming its commitment to what it termed the “rescue mission” in Ondo State, the party expressed confidence in its ability to provide better leadership and restore hope to the people.

“We key into this uncommon love of God as exemplified by our Lord Jesus Christ as we continue the arduous task of redeeming the people of Ondo State from the harsh grip of dehumanization,” the statement added.

The PDP concluded by wishing all Christian faithful a joyful and meaningful Easter celebration.

Yesterday in Akure, the Ondo State Government pulled off what it branded as an “interactive session” with the Governor. One would think it was a town hall of ideas and civic engagement until you actually looked at the makeup of the crowd and the real purpose of the gathering. Still, let’s give them half a star for effort. After all, anything that vaguely resembles democracy in Ondo these days deserves a round of applause.

Now, the real headline from the event wasn’t the regurgitated rhetoric or the carefully rehearsed praise-singing, it was Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s earth-shaking announcement that he might, possibly, someday, appoint a youth as a commissioner. Imagine that. Fourteen months of uninspired governance and the biggest legacy yet is the promise of giving one young person a seat at the table. Quite magnanimous.

Of a truth, in the entire South West, no state matches Ondo’s track record in excluding young people from meaningful political participation. We have perfected the art of using the youth as glorified errand boys, media aides, and foot soldiers during campaigns, only to dump them when it’s time to share real power. Beyond the SSAs on Youths and Students (which, honestly, is more symbolic than substantial), young people in Ondo have had absolutely nothing tangible to show for our loyalty or brilliance.

So now that the Governor has dangled the carrot of a commissioner slot for a youth, just one, it falls to members of his party, the APC, to hold him accountable. Because if there’s one thing this administration has mastered, it’s the noble act of promising what it never intends to deliver. The Governor’s lip service to youth development is already the stuff of legend; let’s hope this new promise doesn’t become yet another chapter in that tired story.

Until then, we wait, albeit with cautious optimism and a healthy dose of sarcasm. After all, hope is the only thing Ondo youths haven’t been taxed for, just yet.

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has been commended for extending an invitation to student leaders across tertiary institutions in the state for a special Easter Retreat, Dinner, and Interactive Session.

The four-day event, scheduled to hold from Thursday, April 17 to Sunday, April 20, 2025, is aimed at fostering closer collaboration between the government and the student community.

Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Committee (JCC) Ondo Axis, Comrade Tobiloba Joshua, described the initiative as “visionary and inclusive,” noting that it reflects the Governor’s commitment to participatory governance.

“In an era where student voices are often sidelined, Governor Aiyedatiwa has chosen the path of dialogue and inclusion. This retreat offers a platform for mutual understanding, policy discussions, and spiritual reflection during the Easter season,” he said.

Joshua also lauded the efforts of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Hon. Kevin Solomon Olaolu, for his effective coordination and consistent advocacy for student inclusion in governance.

The retreat is expected to serve as a platform for student leaders to engage directly with state officials, deepen leadership values, and contribute to state-building conversations.

Stakeholders have described the initiative as a bold and thoughtful move that could set a new tone for student-government relations in Ondo State.