Mutawali at 70: Kwarans Celebrate Dr. Alimi Abdul-Razaq's Enduring Legacy of Service and Philanthropy Kwarans from all walks of life gathered to celebrate the 70th birthday of the Mutawalin of Ilorin, His Eminence, Dr. Alimi Abdul-Razaq, LL.B (Hons), LL.M, Ph.D (Hull), B.L., FCIArb., ACTI, with tributes pouring in for his decades of exemplary service, philanthropy, and commitment to humanity. Speaking on behalf of the Organising Committee at the special prayer held in honour of the revered elder statesman, former Special Adviser on Party Affairs to the Governor of Kwara State, Hon. Moshood Alaka, described Dr. Abdul-Razaq as a distinguished legal luminary, educationist, public administrator, and humanitarian whose life has been devoted to the service of Allah, the Ilorin Emirate, Kwara State, and Nigeria. Welcoming Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, legal practitioners, public office holders, family members, friends, and well-wishers, Alaka said the occasion was not merely ...

 *Hon. Moshood Alaka Celebrates an Iconic Birthday of His Eminence, Dr. Muhammed Alimi Abdul-Razaq, The Mutawalin of Ilorin* Hon. Moshood Alaka, former Special Adviser on Party Affairs to the Executive Governor of Kwara State has extended his heartfelt congratulations to His Eminence, Dr. Muhammed Alimi Abdul-Razaq, LL.B (Hons), LL.M, Ph.D (Hull), B.L., FCIArb., ACTI., Member, Body of Benchers, The Mutawalin of Ilorin, on the occasion of his birthday. Describing the celebrant as an exceptional legal luminary, philanthropist, educationist, and community leader, Hon. Alaka commended Dr. Abdul-Razaq for his unwavering commitment to justice, education, youth empowerment, and humanitarian service. He noted that the celebrant's contributions have transformed the lives of thousands through scholarship programmes, employment opportunities, and continuous support for the less privileged, widows, and vulnerable members of society. According to Hon. Alaka, Dr. Abdul-Razaq's remarkable leg...

 UNILAG Advises Female Students Against Risky Situations in Anti-Rape Safety Campaign The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has issued a series of safety advisories to female students as part of efforts to prevent sexual harassment and rape on campus. The guidance, displayed on a roll-up banner by the institution's Student Affairs Division, outlines precautionary measures aimed at promoting personal safety in response to concerns over incidents of sexual assault within the university community. Among the recommendations are warnings to avoid secluded places with men, reject unnecessary favours, refrain from accepting intoxicants, remain vigilant when served drinks, and be assertive in refusing unwanted advances. The advisory also encourages students to avoid watching pornographic materials, exercise caution in their interactions, and "learn to say no," while stressing the importance of making informed decisions about sexual relationships. According to the Student Affairs Divis...

  NANC Condemns Remand of Former FUOYE SUG President, Demands Immediate Release The National Association of Nigerian Comrades (NANC) has strongly condemned the remand of the immediate past Students' Union Government (SUG) President of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Comrade Adio, describing the action as a violation of due process and an infringement on his fundamental rights. In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Johnclaude Peter, JP, the association expressed concern over reports that Comrade Adio, who allegedly approached a Magistrate Court in Ekiti State as a complainant, was subsequently remanded following actions said to have involved the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the presiding magistrate. According to NANC, the development represents a "judicial rascality" and a "travesty of justice," insisting that no student leader should be criminalised for seeking justice through lawful means. The association called ...

  NANS Declares July 28 'Black Tuesday' Over Killings of Nigerian Students Student Body Condemns Rising Insecurity, Demands Urgent Action to Protect Lives By Poet of Afrique Reporter The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has declared Tuesday, July 28, 2026 , as "Black Tuesday" in response to what it described as the persistent and inhumane killings of Nigerian students across different parts of the country. In a statement issued by the National Secretariat, the association said the declaration was prompted by the growing wave of violence that has claimed the lives of students in several states, including Adamawa, Ondo, Gombe, Bauchi, Osun, Nasarawa, Bayelsa, Plateau, and Ogun. NANS expressed deep concern over the recurring incidents of killings, kidnapping, armed robbery, and banditry, stressing that the safety and security of students must become a national priority. Describing the situation as unacceptable, the association reiterated its belief...

  Training a Male Child: A Father's Sacred Responsibility By: Sanni Yusuf Olatunji.  The training of a male child is one of the greatest responsibilities entrusted to a father. While mothers and fathers both play vital and complementary roles in raising children, a father's influence in shaping the character, identity, and direction of his son is unique and irreplaceable. This topic left me with tears and fear for the youths who are becoming a father. A father is more than a provider of food, clothing, and shelter. He is a mentor, a guide, a teacher, a protector, and a role model. Long before a boy becomes a man, he watches his father closely. He observes how his father speaks, treats people, handles conflict, honours commitments, responds to failure, and carries himself with dignity. These daily observations become powerful lessons that shape the kind of man the child will become. A well-trained male child is not simply one who excels academically or possesses professional qu...

 POLICE RAID DISRUPTS SECRET PARTY IN LAGOS; HOUSE OWNER DECLARED WANTED OVER ALLEGED SAME-SEX RELATIONSHIP The Lagos State Police Command has launched an investigation into an alleged clandestine gathering at a residential property in Lagos following a midnight raid on August 31, 2024. The operation, reportedly conducted at about 11:30 p.m. following intelligence from residents, led to the arrest of 10 young women who were allegedly attending a private birthday gathering. Police sources said the gathering was suspected to be linked to activities prohibited under Nigeria's Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act. Among those arrested were 23-year-old Olasumbo Okanlawon and her close friend, Yetunde. The investigation reportedly took a new turn after Yetunde allegedly told investigators that she had been involved in a secret relationship with the homeowner, Mrs. Osebola Oluwafiropo Maja. According to the police account, investigators suspect that the alleged relationship may have influe...

  Kwara Government Upgrades Baboko Community Secondary School with New Educational Facilities State Hands Over Renovated Classrooms, Laboratories to Enhance Learning  By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Kwara State Government has delivered a major boost to educational infrastructure with the handover of newly constructed and renovated facilities at Baboko Community Secondary School, Ilorin. The Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, formally handed over the projects on Monday, describing the intervention as a reflection of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's commitment to improving the quality of education and advancing human capital development across the state. The projects include the renovation of four classroom blocks, the remodeling of a five-classroom block, the upgrade of four laboratory blocks equipped with modern facilities, offices and stores, as well as renovated toilet facilities aimed at improving the learning environment ...

  AMS Attends Third-Day Fidau Prayer for Late Hon. Alhaji Kolawole Ambali Yusuf NDC House of Representatives Candidate Joins Family, Associates in Prayers for Deceased Statesman By Poet of Afrique Reporter The candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Asiwaju Mashood Shittu (AMS), on Tuesday attended the third-day Fidau prayer held in honour of the late Hon. Alhaji Kolawole Ambali Yusuf, the Asiwaju of Oke-Ode Land. The prayer session took place at the residence of the deceased in Ilorin, Kwara State, attracting family members, political associates, community leaders, religious figures, and other well-wishers who gathered to offer prayers for the repose of his soul. AMS, accompanied by members of his entourage, joined other mourners in paying tribute to the late elder statesman, whose contributions to politics, community development, and public service earned him widespread respect across Kwara State and beyond. During...

  Hon. Moshood Alaka Hosts APC House of Representatives Candidate, Reaffirms Commitment to Party Unity Former Special Adviser Pledges Support for APC Candidates Ahead of General Election By Poet of Afrique Reporter Former Special Adviser on Party Affairs to the Governor of Kwara State and leading aspirant for the Edu/Moro/Patigi Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat, Hon. Moshood Alaka, has reaffirmed his loyalty to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a courtesy visit by the party's House of Representatives candidate for the constituency, Hon. Mamman Tswako. The visit, which formed part of ongoing consultations ahead of the forthcoming general election, also featured former aspirants from the constituency, Hon. Mohammed Baba Ibrahim and Hon. Abubakar Taoheed Bello (popularly known as Car-Wash). The meeting provided an avenue for discussions on strengthening the APC in the Edu/Moro/Patigi Federal Constituency and sustai...

 2027: Salihu Yakub Danladi Confirmed on INEC Portal as APC Governorship Candidate By Poet of Afrique Reporter Rt. Hon. Engr. Salihu Yakub Danladi (SYD) has officially emerged on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Candidate Nomination Portal (ICNP) as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Kwara State ahead of the 2027 General Elections. The development follows the commencement of the nationwide upload of APC governorship and State House of Assembly candidates to the INEC portal in compliance with the electoral timetable. According to reports, the exercise is being coordinated by the party's Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Department at the APC National Headquarters in Abuja, with priority given to incumbent governors seeking re-election as well as newly nominated governorship candidates across the country. Among the incumbent governors whose details have reportedly been uploaded are Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Hyacinth Alia (Benue...

  AMS Mourns Ex-Lawmaker Kolawole Yusuf, Hails Legacy of Service and Leadership Describes Late Statesman as a Pillar of Leadership and Community Development L-R Asiwaju Moshood Shittu and Hon. Kolawole Yusuf (Late) OFFA, KWARA STATE — July 18, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections, Asiwaju Mashood Shittu (AMS), has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Asiwaju of Oke-Ode, Honourable (Alhaji) Kolawole Yusuf. In a condolence message, Shittu described the late elder statesman as a distinguished political leader whose contributions to governance, democratic development, and community service left a lasting impact on Kwara State and beyond. According to him, Alhaji Yusuf dedicated his life to public service and played a significant role in mentoring emerging political leaders while promoting peace, unity, and development within his community and the ...

  NANS Kwara Engages UNILORIN Management Over Private Hostel Fee Review Student Body Commends University's Transparency, Clarifies Accommodation Charges ILORIN, KWARA STATE — July 17, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Kwara State Axis, has engaged the management of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) over concerns arising from reports of an increase in accommodation fees charged by privately owned hostels within the institution. The fact-finding visit, led by the Chairman of NANS Kwara State Axis, Comrade Yusuf Abdulquadir Eleburuike, was aimed at obtaining firsthand information from the university management following widespread reactions to a viral social media report on the matter. The NANS delegation was received on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, by the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alex Morenikeji Akanmu. During the meeting, the dean commended NANS for seeking clarification through officia...

 NANC  NANC Names Dr. Segun Musa National Patron, Secures Commitment to Youth Development Education Advocate Accepts Role During Courtesy Visit by National Leadership in Lagos LAGOS, NIGERIA — July 17, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The National Association of Nigerian Comrades (NANC) has announced the appointment of Dr. Segun Musa as its National Patron following his acceptance of the nomination during a courtesy visit by the association's national leadership to his office in Lagos. The delegation, led by the President of NANC, Comrade Johnclaude Peter, JP, visited Dr. Musa on July 14, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen stakeholder engagement and advance the association's objectives in youth development and national advocacy. During the meeting, NANC leaders briefed the newly appointed patron on the association's activities, organizational reforms, and strategic initiatives aimed at empowering Nigerian youths and promoting leadership development. Discussions r...

 *Party First: Hon. Moshood Alaka's Commitment to APC Unity*  Written by: S. O Yusuf Hon. Moshood Alaka Deserves Commendation, Not Criticism The recent criticism directed at Hon. Moshood Alaka for supporting the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and calling for peace after the party's primary election is both unwarranted and misplaced. In every democratic setting, citizens and political actors have the right to express their views and convictions. As a loyal party member and former Adviser on Party Affairs to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Hon. Alaka's call for unity, calm, and adherence to party structures reflects political maturity, discipline, and a deep commitment to the stability of the APC. His appeal is not an act of weakness or surrender but a demonstration of responsible leadership. At a time when emotions naturally run high after a keenly contested primary election, leaders are expected to promote reconciliation, strengthen internal cohesi...

  Makinde Picks Ibrahim Adamu Bala as Running Mate for 2027 Presidential Election APM Completes Presidential Ticket with North-South Pairing Ahead of General Polls NIGERIA — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples' Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has selected Ibrahim Adamu Bala as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election. The development completes the party's presidential ticket as preparations intensify for the forthcoming general elections. Information available on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination portal indicates that Bala, 51, hails from Bauchi State, creating a North-South presidential ticket for the APM. Political observers say the choice is expected to strengthen the party's appeal across different regions of the country as it seeks to broaden its support base ahead of the polls. Sources familiar with the nomination process disclosed that Bala Mohammed played a significa...

 *Audacious Falsehood or Brazenness of Ignorance: Presenting the Otoge Government in a failing light* Written by: Bisi Kristien Some PDP supporters and others dissatisfied with the Kwara APC's choice of its 2027 governorship candidate have claimed that the Otoge government failed to deliver on its promises to Kwarans. I have repeatedly asked myself whether this assertion is true, and my answer remains no. Yet, one should never assume that one's position is beyond scrutiny. In December 2019, I withdrew from my brief engagement in the Dynasty's political media after realising that it was no longer justifiable to continue criticising Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's administration—a task I had undertaken for seven months. I have never regretted that decision, for I can only imagine how far I might have strayed from the truth had I remained committed to portraying this government as a failure. This is yet another occasion that compels one to ask how anyone could, in sincer...

  Igbo Community in Offa, Oyun Pledges Support for AMS Ahead of 2027 Elections NDC House of Representatives Candidate Intensifies Stakeholder Consultations Across Constituency OFFA, KWARA STATE — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Asiwaju Mashood Shittu (AMS), has disclosed that the Igbo community in Offa and Oyun Local Government Areas of Kwara State has pledged its support for his candidacy ahead of the 2027 general elections. Shittu made the disclosure following a consultative meeting with the leadership of the Igbo Community Association in Offa and Oyun Local Government Areas on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The meeting brought together the association's president, executive members, and chairmen representing the five Igbo state associations resident within the constituency. According to Shittu, the engagement formed part of his ongoing consul...

  Senate Donates ₦50 Million to Families of Victims of Oyo School Abduction Rescue Operation Lawmakers Commend Sacrifice of Fallen Heroes, Pledge Support for Bereaved Families ABUJA, NIGERIA — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The Nigerian Senate has announced a donation of ₦50 million to the families of five individuals who lost their lives during the rescue operation for abducted schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The donation was unveiled as part of efforts to support the bereaved families and honour the sacrifices made during the operation that led to the rescue of the kidnapped pupils and teachers. Members of the Senate described the deceased as heroes who paid the ultimate price in the service of humanity and national security, noting that their courage and sacrifice would not be forgotten. The lawmakers expressed condolences to the affected families and commended security agencies and other stakeholders involved in securing the releas...

  Fintiri Declares End to Absenteeism in Local Government Administration Governor Charges Newly Inaugurated Council Chairmen on Accountability, Grassroots Service YOLA, ADAMAWA STATE — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has declared an end to absenteeism in local government administration, warning newly inaugurated chairmen of the state's 21 local government councils to remain at their duty posts and maintain close contact with the people they were elected to serve. The governor issued the directive on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected council chairmen held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Yola. Fintiri emphasized that grassroots leadership is a full-time responsibility that requires commitment, accountability, and consistent engagement with residents. He stressed that local government offices must remain operational, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the people, noting that ef...

  FIFA Set to Introduce 30-Minute Halftime Show at 2026 World Cup Final Historic Super Bowl-Style Entertainment Expected to Extend Traditional Halftime Break NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter FIFA is set to stage a historic Super Bowl-style halftime show during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with the interval expected to be extended to approximately 30 minutes. The move marks the first time in the tournament's history that the World Cup final will feature a dedicated halftime entertainment spectacle, departing from the traditional 15-minute break between halves. The expanded halftime is expected to accommodate a star-studded musical performance curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin in partnership with Global Citizen. The lineup includes Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay. The final is scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 19, at the New York New Jersey Stadium, with FIF...

  Governor Approves Recruitment of Teachers for Ekiti Public Primary Schools Move Aimed at Strengthening Basic Education and Enhancing Learning Outcomes ADO-EKITI, EKITI STATE — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the recruitment of teachers into public primary schools across the state as part of efforts to strengthen the basic education sector and improve learning outcomes. The recruitment initiative is aimed at addressing manpower needs in public primary schools, enhancing the quality of teaching, and ensuring that pupils receive effective and uninterrupted learning experiences. According to the state government, the approval forms part of Governor Oyebanji's commitment to improving the education sector and providing a conducive environment for teaching and learning. The move is expected to bridge existing gaps in teacher availability, particularly in underserved communities, while supporting the government's br...

  Oyebanji Renews Tenure of Governing Councils of Ekiti Tertiary Institutions Governor Cites Outstanding Performance in Strengthening Higher Education Sector ADO-EKITI, EKITI STATE — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the retention of the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions for another term, citing their impressive performance in advancing the development of higher education in the state. The decision, according to the state government, is in recognition of the councils' contributions to institutional growth, improved governance, academic excellence, and administrative stability across the affected institutions. Governor Oyebanji noted that the councils have demonstrated commitment, professionalism, and effective leadership in supporting the government's vision for a vibrant and competitive tertiary education system. He said their efforts have contributed significantly to ongoing reforms a...

  Yekini Alabi Endorses AMS Leadership, Expresses Confidence in His Capacity to Represent Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun Veteran Kwara Politician Commends Shittu's Leadership Qualities During Courtesy Visit ILORIN, KWARA STATE — July 15, 2026 By Poet of Afrique Reporter The National Coordinator of the Kwankwaso National Network (KNN) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Offa/Oyun/Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Asiwaju Mashood Shittu (AMS), has disclosed details of a courtesy visit to elder statesman and veteran Kwara politician, Hon. Yekini Olayinka Alabi. The visit took place on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Alabi's residence in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), Ilorin, where both leaders held discussions on leadership, public service, and the future of the constituency. Speaking after the meeting, Shittu described the engagement as cordial, insightful, and enriching, noting that it provided an opportunity to benefit from the wisdom and experience of one of Kwara St...