Tag: Ogun State

Ogun State

  • Pastor Ashimolowo petitioned over land deal

    Pastor Ashimolowo petitioned over land deal

    The Ogun State House of Assembly on Tuesday acknowledged the receipt of a petition written against one Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo over alleged sale of land belonging to Bluestone Garden City.

    The House Committee Chairman on Justice, Ethics and Public Petitions, Mr Oluseun Adesanya (PDP-Ijebu North East), presented the petition before the Assembly during plenary in Abeokuta.

    Adesanya delivered a brief at the plenary on the allegations levelled against Ashimolowo in relation to the transactions on the land matter at the Blue Garden City, Mowe Town.

    The lawmaker stated that the allegations also bothered on harassment and intimidation in the course of a land business transactions with the Arc-View investment limited.

    He disclosed that the petition was written to the House by the Chief Executive Officer of Arc-View Investment Limited, Segun Oshundairo.

    Responding, the Speaker, Oludaisi Elemide (APC-Odeda), referred the petition to the House Committee on Justice, Ethics and Public Petitions as well as that of Lands and Housing.

    He urged both Committees to invite the concerned parties in the petition for further legislative investigations.

    In another development, the Assembly has passed a resolution calling on the State Government to urgently provide succor to the victims of the recent storm that ravaged Ikangba community in Odoogbolu Local Government.

    The resolution also directed the government to assist other parts of the state that had experienced similar natural disasters in recent times.

    The Assembly passed the resolution following debate on the motion sponsored by the Assembly’s Minority Leader, Lukman Adeleye (PDP-Odogbolu).

    Adeleye lamented that the incident also affected schools in the said community.

  • Portable declared wanted for attacking Ogun govt officials

    Portable declared wanted for attacking Ogun govt officials

    Controversial Nigerian singer,  Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi, popularly known as “Portable”, has been declared wanted for his alleged involvement in a violent attack on government officials carrying out their lawful duties.

    The spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, SP Omolola Odutola, in a statement disclosed that officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ota Zonal Office named TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef and TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi  on February 5, 2025, at about 1000hrs, were conducting an enforcement exercise at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, when they encountered an elderly man later identified as Portable’s father, at Odogwu Bar in the area.

    Upon identifying themselves and requesting the approved building plan, the father informed them that his son was unavailable.

    ’However, moments later, Portable, armed with a firearm and other dangerous weapons, led a gang of nine thugs in a violent attack on the unarmed officials. The enforcement officers sustained various bodily injuries but managed to escape and reported the incident to the Ota Area Command, which subsequently escalated the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further action.

    “Nine accomplices were arrested, but Portable fled the scene and has since gone into hiding. Multiple formal invitations were sent to him, requesting his presence at the Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, which he deliberately ignored without cause or legal representation.

    “Following his repeated evasion, the Ogun State Police Command has obtained a valid court order declaring him wanted”

    Odutola further pleaded with the public to assist the police by providing any valuable information that can lead to his immediate arrest.

    ‘’Anyone found aiding or harbouring the suspect will face legal consequences.

    ‘’For any relevant information, kindly report to the nearest police station or contact the Ogun State Police Command through its official communication channels or police public relations department.” he added

  • Missing 76-year-old man found dead in Ogun

    Missing 76-year-old man found dead in Ogun

    The Police in Ogun, on Wednesday, confirmed the discovery of the lifeless body of a 76-year-old man, Sikiru Olatunji, earlier declared missing on Saturday.

    The command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

    Odutola explained that the deceased was found about one and a half Kilometres from Wasinmi, Abule Maria, via Balogun Village in Yewa North Local Government Area of the state.

    She stated the deceased was found lying face-up with his cutlass by his side.

    The spokesperson said no visible signs of violence were observed on his body, leaving the cause of his death unclear.

    “The discovery was made known following an extensive bush-combing operation and a coordinated search effort by police officers from Imasayi Division, assisted by Amotekun operatives.

    “The Vigilante Group of Nigeria, the Baale, and local hunters were also involved in the search.

    “Following the recovery, the deceased’s family requested and was granted custody of the corpse for burial,” she said.

    Odutola, however, said the police were still investigating the circumstances surrounding his death and soliciting useful information from the public to aid their inquiry.

    She urged anyone with relevant details to come forward and assist to ensure a thorough investigation.

  • Ogun suspends traditional ruler for 6 months

    Ogun suspends traditional ruler for 6 months

    The Ogun Government on Monday placed Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo in the Ifo Local Government Area on a six-month suspension over what it called an “uncivil conduct”.

    Alhaji Ganiu Hazmat, the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, disclosed in a statement in Abeokuta that Ogunjobi’s conduct was not befitting the status of a king.

    Hamzat explained that government’s decision was in a bid to ensure the dignity of persons and the protection of sanctity of the revered traditional institution.

    The commissioner noted that the decision was reached after the traditional ruler and his victim were invited to the Ministry for interrogation.

    He said their invitation became imperative as a result of the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the traditional ruler as evident in a viral video on social media.

    “After the investigation conducted on the matter, Oba Ogunjobi has been suspended. He has been stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile of Orile-Ifo pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise in the matter,” Hamzat said.

    The Commissioner said the decision was reached by the Ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council.

    “This was in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021,” he said.

    Hamzat added that the state government would not condone acts of indignity on any of its residents by anybody, no matter how highly placed.

  • Ogun: Cleric arrested for defiling minor during spiritual cleansing

    Ogun: Cleric arrested for defiling minor during spiritual cleansing

    The police in Ogun have arrested a 38-year-old cleric for allegedly defiling a 12-year-old girl. The command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, said this in a statement in Abeokuta on Sunday.

    The suspect was said to be serving in a branch of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ijebu Igbo.

    According to Odutola, the suspect committed the crime under the guise of performing spiritual cleansing for the victim.

    She explained that the victim’s mother, a member of the cleric ‘s congregation, reported the incident at the Ijebu Igbo Divisional Police Station.

    Odutola said the mother had informed the police that the cleric deceitfully convinced her that a spiritual bath was necessary to avert a calamity for her daughter.

    The police spokesperson added that during the spiritual bath at a river bank at 2:00 p.m on Sunday, the suspect allegedly took advantage of the minor.

    ”Upon receiving the report, officers from the Gender Department of the Ogun State Police Command swiftly arrested the suspect.

    ”The victim was, however, referred to Medicare Hospital, Ijebu Igbo, where medical evidence is being gathered to aid the ongoing investigation,” she said

    Odutola, however, noted that findings indicated a disturbing level of neglect and lack of parental caution as the victim’s mother had entrusted her child to the suspect without due diligence.

    She warned parents and guardians to protect their children from questionable persons, especially those who exploit religious beliefs for financial advantage.

  • How gunmen killed Celestial Church prophet on the pulpit – Police

    How gunmen killed Celestial Church prophet on the pulpit – Police

    The Ogun Police Command has confirmed the shooting to death of a prophet of Celestial Church in Idiroko by gunmen during Sunday’s service.

    The command’s Spokeperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident in a statement issued to newsmen in Ota.

    Odutola explained that “some unidentified gunmen entered into the church during Sunday’s service  and opened fire on the  prophet and then escaped from the premises.

    According to her, the Divisional Police Officer received a report at about 10.30 a.m. that someone had been killed at a Celestial Church, located on Old Baggage Road, Odo Eran, Idiroko.

    “Police officers quickly moved to the scene of the incident and discovered that a 54-year-old prophet, Yomi Adetula, was lying face up in a pool of his blood that stained his white celestial garment.

    “Upon closer inspection, his body was found to be riddled with bullets, and his head was severely damaged with an axe to confirm that he was indeed dead.

    “During the police investigation, it was revealed that three men entered the church, brandished a long double-barreled gun, aimed at their target, and fired a shot that caused chaos,” she stated.

    Odutola further stated that the remains had been deposited at the Ilaro General Hospital morgue.

    She added that no arrest had been made but the police were actively working to apprehend the fleeing suspects, who reportedly escaped from the church toward the border area.

    She further stated that normalcy had rerurned to the area, adding that potential clues were expected to emerge in the coming days as investigations into the tragic incident were underway.

  • Police deploy team to rescue ex-AIG Odumosu’s wife

    Police deploy team to rescue ex-AIG Odumosu’s wife

    The Police Command in Ogun says it has deployed a team of officers to the scene of Thursday’s kidnap of Mrs Odumosu, wife of retired AIG Hakeem Odumosu.

    The command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement in Abeokuta on Friday.

    Odutola said the victim, a resident of Aminu Street, Orange Estate, Arepo, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, was kidnapped at about 9.55 p.m. on Thursday while entering her home.

    She explained that four masked men attacked and dragged her out of her Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle, taking her through a swampy area to an unknown location.

    “The Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Warewa Division, has led policemen to the scene where they are currently searching the swampy bush area,” she said.

    According to the spokesperson, the DPO had also contacted the Warewa and Maaba community heads to deploy local security forces to the riverine area.

    “Further updates will be provided,” she said.

    Odutola said the state Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, had been briefed and that all operations had been deployed to assist with digital intelligence to ensure the victim’s rescue.

  • Onanuga’s death rude shock – Ogun APC mourns

    Onanuga’s death rude shock – Ogun APC mourns

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun has described the death of House of Representatives member, representing Ikene/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency, Adewunmi Onanuga, as a rude shock.

    The party, in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Thursday by its State Publicity Secretary, Tunde Oladunjoye, expressed sadness over the death of the politician.

    Recall Onanuga, popularly known as “Ijaya”, died in a United Kingdom hospital following a brief illness at the age of 59.

    The death of the lawmaker, who was the Deputy Chief Whip of the house, was announced via a post on the official X account of the lower legislative chamber on Wednesday night.

    Oladunjoye commiserated with Gov. Dapo Abiodun, the leadership of the party, family and associates of late lawmaker, who, he said, remained a staunch and vibrant party loyalist till her death.

    “While alive, Onanuga popularly called “Ijaya”, exuded humility, loyalty and responsibility to the party and her constituents.

    “She was a commendable and recommendable politician that served as a beacon of hope not only to female party members but also, to the entirety of the party.

    “She was a good ambassador who represented not only her federal constituency, but indeed, Ogun state as a whole, while she served as the Deputy Chief Whip at the House of Representatives.

    “We pray that God will grant her family and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the publicity secretary said.

  • Ogun: Police raise alarm over rising cases of missing persons

    Ogun: Police raise alarm over rising cases of missing persons

    The Police Command in Ogun State has raised concerns over a significant increase in reports of missing persons in the State.

    CSP Omolola Odutola, the Command’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement in Abeokuta on Tuesday.

    She explained that the command had noticed an unprecedented rise in the number of missing persons across all age groups.

    Odutola noted that only a small fraction of the individuals had been found, with many regrettably not returning home.

    The police spokesperson urged residents to remain vigilant and more security-conscious while prioritising their safety.

    She added that, as a proactive and community-oriented force, the command was committed to raising public awareness about this concerning trend.

    “We encourage everyone to prioritise their safety by maintaining a heightened sense of security to avoid becoming a victim.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has outlined essential measures and guidelines to keep residents informed about the most pressing issues.

    “Based on insights from individuals who were rescued, the Commissioner advises parents not to allow their children to use commercial transportation services with strangers.

    “Additionally, he encourages restless youth to activate the digital communication and sharing features on their mobile devices, especially when traveling or in moments of distress,” Odutola said.

    Odutola further emphasised that the public could contact the police control room at 09164859299 and the Police Public Relations Department at 09159578888 for assistance.

  • Anthony Joshua bags juicy appointment in Ogun State

    Anthony Joshua bags juicy appointment in Ogun State

    Two-time former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua has been appointed as Ogun State Sports Ambassador by the State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Abiodun confirmed the appointment when he hosted Joshua in his office on Monday.

    Along with the appointment, Abiodun also announced plans by the state government to construct a new boxing ring in honour of Joshua, while inviting the boxing champion to light the National Sports Festival torch in May 2025.

    “I want to openly request that, besides the fact that today we are going to officially confirm you as our sports ambassador, we want to request that you come back to light up the Gateway Sports Festival torch; you will be the one lighting it up.

    “We are going to construct a brand new Anthony Joshua Indoor Boxing Ring, and that boxing ring will be in a stadium here in Abeokuta.

    “This is to ensure that you come home more frequently. Besides the fact that you are now our official sports ambassador, we have decided that we will give you a brand new house in Sagamu,” he said.

    Abiodun said the state was proud of the boxer’s achievements on the world stage, and would support his career in every way it could. He urged him to find ways of supporting the state in the area of sports development by working alongside stakeholders in the state.

    “We leave you to work with the National Sports Commission and the Commissioner for Sports Development on what we can do to ensure that we have activities leading to the sports festival in your boxing arena.

    “In preparation for the sports festival, we are spending a lot of money; we are totally refurbishing, rehabilitating, and reconstructing our sporting facilities.

    “As you know, sports is a universal language; it brings people from different parts of the world together,” he said.

    Earlier in his remarks, Anthony Joshua noted that he would work toward promoting Ogun to the rest of the world by showcasing the numerous talents in the state.