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In a bold and coordinated move signalling rising civic consciousness in Osun’s political landscape, the Ijesa North Youth Platform has issued a formal letter of demand to Governor Ademola Adeleke , accusing the state government of “systematic marginalisation” of the Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency in road and infrastructure allocations. The group, comprising young professionals, students, and community leaders from Oriade and Obokun Local Government Areas, lamented what it described as years of infrastructural neglect, with the collapsed Ere-Ilahun Bridge standing as a tragic symbol of abandonment. The critical link bridge, which fell apart over a year ago, remains unreconstructed, cutting off communities, disrupting commerce, and endangering lives. While acknowledging the state’s ongoing developmental initiatives in cities such as Osogbo , Ede , Ife , and Ilesa , the group insists that Oriade and Obokun have received “an alarmingly disproportionate and almost negligible share” o...

 Pioneered by NEWF Fellow & PADI Instructor George Amado , the initiative trains Ghanaian youth, scientists, and coastal communities in scuba diving and ocean protection. **By Abioye Tosin Lawrence Publisher, Oriontimes Online Newspaper ** Published: October 22, 2025 Accra, Ghana — A Landmark Moment for Ocean Conservation in West Africa Ghana has achieved a historic milestone with the launch of its first locally-led dive lab, designed to build marine research capacity and empower young conservation leaders across the country. The program is spearheaded by George Amado, a PADI-certified dive instructor, Nature Environment Wildlife Filmmakers (NEWF) Fellow, and committed ocean advocate. Held from September 15–21, 2025, the maiden dive lab brought together early-career scientists, conservation practitioners, and youth leaders for intensive scuba diving instruction, marine science learning, and community engagement. The initiative aims to nurture a new generation of African o...

  By Abioye Tosin Lawrence Governor Ademola Adeleke has formally entered the arena for a second term, marching into the PDP screening hall with confidence strong enough to power a stadium concert. He spoke boldly, as expected:  “Our popularity is unrivalled. We are ready for victory.” Promising words. Sweet words. But in Osun , sweet words do not cook indomie , and voters now carry long spoons. Adeleke believes he still has the love of the masses. The youth, however, are asking a simple question: “Love is good… but where is the evidence?” After all, romance without provision is karaoke -  loud, sweet, but empty. The Dance vs The Data Yes, the Governor danced in 2022, a joyful, people-driven dance. But 2026 will not be choreographed by rhythm; it will be choreographed by results. Jobs promised, jobs delivered? Empowerment pledged, empowerment felt? Infrastructure announced, infrastructure seen, touched, driven on without calling a mechanic? Osun youths are not wicked, t...

  OrionTimes Global News Desk Jamaica is reeling after Hurricane Melissa , a Category 5 storm with winds peaking at 185 mph (295 km/h), slammed into the island, the most powerful hurricane ever recorded there. At least seven deaths have been confirmed across the Caribbean, with rescue and recovery operations ongoing. Damage reports describe widespread flooding, infrastructure collapse, blocked roads, uprooted trees, and mass power outages. Evacuation centers overflowed as residents fled coastal and low-lying zones. Authorities warn that landslides and additional flooding remain possible as rains continue. Meteorologists say Melissa is yet another sign of intensifying storm systems in a warming climate. Across the Caribbean, where past disasters still strain economies, the storm underscores the urgent need for reinforced climate adaptation and global support.

  OrionTimes Global News Desk At least 64 people have been killed in a far-reaching police operation across Rio de Janeiro’s favelas , sparking international concern and human-rights alarms. Authorities say the coordinated raid targeted organized-crime networks , but civil-liberties groups accuse security forces of excessive force and indiscriminate killings. Witness accounts describe hours of gunfire, blocked emergency access, and panic across affected communities. The crackdown comes days before major international climate-related events scheduled in Brazil , prompting speculation the government intended to showcase “security control” ahead of global attention. Officials defend the operation as necessary against violent gangs; critics warn it underscores systemic policing abuses in Latin America’s largest democracy . As investigations begin, grief and anger continue to spread across Rio’s streets.

OrionTimes Global News Desk The United States Senate has voted 51–47 to block President Donald Trump ’s sweeping global tariffs , marking a rare bipartisan challenge to the administration’s aggressive trade agenda. The tariff framework introduced under Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day” policy, sought broad import levies on over 100 countries. Supporters say it protects American manufacturing; critics warn it risks global retaliation and economic instability . Despite the Senate action, the resolution remains largely symbolic, with the House of Representatives unlikely to adopt it in its current form. The move follows Trump’s recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea , where both leaders signaled temporary easing of trade tension. For now, global markets remain alert. Washington ’s next steps could determine whether diplomacy prevails, or a new era of trade confrontatio n unfolds.

  Spanish giants FC Barcelona have reportedly placed Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen on their shortlist for the summer 2026 transfer window , according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo . The Catalan club is believed to be targeting a long-term successor in the attacking line, and the Napoli forward has emerged as a key profile under consideration. Osimhen, who made the move to Galatasaray from SSC Napoli for a record fee of around €75 million, establishes his status at the Turkish club. Barcelona, however, appear keen to reinforce their frontline with a dynamic finisher capable of leading the team’s next era. The Super Eagles star has consistently been linked with top European clubs, owing to his pace, power, and clinical finishing. While negotiations or formal talks have not been reported, adding Osimhen to the wishlist signals Barcelona’s intent to secure elite talent as they plan for future campaigns.

  By OrionTimes News Desk Osogbo | October 30, 2025 In a bold political declaration ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election , a coalition of Osogbo indigenous organisations has insisted that the next governor of Osun State must come from Osogbo, describing the demand as a matter of equity, history, and demographic fairness. Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, Omosola Olabode , Coordinator of the Osogbo Development Action Group , who spoke on behalf of the Coalition of Osogbo Indigenous Groups, said the capital city has exhibited patience for 35 years without producing a state governor since the creation of Osun in 1991.  “Osogbo has never produced a governor. We are the cultural and spiritual root of Osun, the largest voter bloc, and the economic engine of the State. 35 years is enough, it is our turn,” Olabode declared. Also speaking, Salam Maroof , Coordinator of the Osogbo Progressive Youth Movement, emphasised that Osogbo’s stand is not about sentiment b...

  Russian President Vladimir Putin has confirmed that Moscow successfully tested its nuclear-powered underwater drone, Poseidon , a weapon he described as unmatched in global warfare capability. The trial, carried out from a submarine platform, reportedly activated the drone's onboard nuclear reactor for the first time, a step Putin called a “historic milestone” in Russia’s strategic deterrence programme. According to the Kremlin , the Poseidon system is engineered to evade modern missile-defence shields by travelling deep beneath the ocean, capable of striking coastal targets with devastating effect. Putin stated the miniature reactor powering the drone is “a hundred times smaller” than those in Russia's nuclear submarines, yet capable of producing far greater destructive potential. He also claimed the system surpasses even the nation’s powerful Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile , known in NATO circles as Satan II . The announcement signals a new phase in underwa...

  U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a landmark meeting in Busan, South Korea , their first face-to-face engagement in more than six years. The encounter, staged on the sidelines of the APEC Summit , signaled a cautious thaw in relations between the world’s two largest economies after years of tariff battles, diplomatic frost, and strategic rivalry across the Pacific arena . During the 90-minute meeting, Washington agreed to reduce tariffs on Chinese goods to 47%, while Beijing committed to renew large-scale U.S. soybean purchases , sustain rare-earth exports , and deepen cooperation to stem illegal fentanyl flows . Though framed as a breakthrough, the agreements outline more of a roadmap than a final settlement, reflecting an attempt at détente rather than a full reconciliation. Both leaders projected optimism, with Trump calling the exchange “fantastic,” while Xi emphasized stability despite differences. Yet, beneath the warm optics, critical is...

  Arsenal have been handed a stern test against Crystal Palace as the Carabao Cup quarter-final fixtures take shape, setting up another dramatic chapter in this season’s competition. Fresh from eliminating Liverpool in stunning fashion, Palace travel to the Emirates brimming with belief and momentum. Mikel Arteta ’s Arsenal, however, remain on a relentless march and will view the tie as another step toward long-awaited domestic silverware. Manchester City will host Brentford in a tactical battle that pits Pep Guardiola’s refined machine against Keith Andrew 's disciplined and unpredictable Bees. City remain favourites, but Brentford’s appetite for disruption makes this an unmissable showdown.

  Tanzania has been thrown into political tension as waves of protests erupted across major cities following contested election results. Demonstra tors, largely made up of opposition supporters and civil society groups, took to the streets to express frustration over what they describe as irregularities and suppression of democratic freedoms. Security forces moved swiftly to disperse the protesters, leading to multiple arrests. Among those detained are key opposition leaders who had earlier called for calm demonstrations to demand transparency in the electoral process. Authorities insist the arrests are necessary to “maintain law and order,” accusing the opposition of inciting public disorder. However, rights groups have condemned the move, calling it an attempt to silence dissent and intimidate democratic voices. International observers have begun monitoring the situation closely, urging restraint from security agencies and calling for respect for human rights and due process. ...

  Political Access Movement, Osun State , has made public its decision to support Dr Rasaq Obasanjo Oyelami SALIU, the founder of Orisunlagba Movement , to emerge as the next governor of Osun State . Speaking today Wednesday October 29 in Osogbo , Mr Abiodun Tijani who is the state coordinator of the state-wide movement disclosed that his group had met several times and finally reached the conclusion that the Osun 2022 candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party(NNPP) is the right person to support in 2026. PAM coordinator regretted not knowing Dr Saliu before 2022 saying that the Orísunl'agba champion is the real leader Osun is waiting for.  According to Abiodun, " We have our members all over the 31 areas of this state and we know what is happening everywhere here. Dr Saliu is a true lover of the masses, a thoroughbred professional, an epitome of leadership and an exceptional son of Osun with multiple capacities doing us proud all over the world. This time, we are for Oris...

By Augustine Felix| OrionTimes Date: Oct 29, 2025 Arsenal continue to surge with conviction in the Premier League, outclassing rivals and widening the gulf at the top. Mikel Arteta’s side are displaying elite discipline and tactical maturity, with no club yet showing the consistency to challenge their title momentum. Anal ysts say the Gunners’ blend of youth, controlled aggression, and technical supremacy could mark the return of North London dominance after years in transition.

  By OrionTimes International Desk Date: Oct 29, 2025 Israel has carried out fresh strikes in Gaza, citing security threats from militant factions. Civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction have been reported as humanitarian concerns deepen. International mediators warn of renewed escalation if diplomatic channels fail to hold.

  By OrionTimes Defence Desk Date: Oct 29, 2025 The United States military says its forces have destroyed four vessels in the eastern Pacific in a classified anti-smuggling operation . Offficials report the mission targeted transnational criminal networks operating across maritime routes . More details are expected as briefings continue.

  By OrionTimes Asia Desk Date: Oct 29, 2025 North Korea fired multiple missiles ahead of former U.S. President Donald Trump 's scheduled regional visit, signalling defiance and raising security alert levels across East Asia . Analysts say Pyongyang is once again positioning missile tests as geopolitical theatre in anticipation of increased U.S. attention.

  Former Barcelona and Brazil football star Dani Alves has reportedly become a preacher at a church in Girona, Spain. Alves, who recently regained his freedom, was seen addressing a congregation with a message of faith and redemption.  “You have to have faith in God. I am proof of that. I made a pact with God,” he told worshippers during a heartfelt sermon. The 41-year-old defender, celebrated for his glittering football career, seems to be taking a new spiritual path, choosing to dedicate his voice and platform to preaching hope and transformation. Once known for his dazzling footwork on the pitch, Alves now appears determined to walk a different kind of path, one rooted in faith and humility.

  By Oriontimes International Desk As the United States enters Day 27 of its partial government shutdown , the cracks in the world’s largest economy have begun to show in the skies. More than 3,370 flights were delayed and 118 canceled on Monday alone as air traffic controllers and critical aviation staff failed to report for duty, a direct consequence of unpaid wages. Analysts warn that the crisis, triggered by political gridlock in Washington , could have wider implications for global travel and trade if unresolved.   “The longer the impasse drags, the deeper the erosion of institutional trust,” a senior policy observer told CBS News . The shutdown has now moved from a domestic inconvenience to a global cautionary tale, a reminder that even the mightiest institutions crumble when politics outpaces governance. Keywords: US shutdown, flight delays , Biden administration , political stalemate, economic impact

   By Oriontimes Washington Bureau Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump has again stirred the American political waters, this time by openly flirting with a 2028 comeback. Through campaign-styled merchandise and subtle rally rhetoric, Trump is already positioning himself as the torchbearer of a movement unwilling to fade. Observers see this as more than mere political nostalgia, it’s an attempt to redefine constitutional limits through public persuasion, projecting the image of inevitability. “He’s rewriting the psychology of succession,” noted an Axios report, highlighting the marketing of “Trump 2028” hats and banners. While legal experts insist the U.S. Constitution bars a third term, Trump’s rhetoric continues to test the elasticity of American democracy, where performance and power often dance in the same theater. Keywords: Donald Trump, 2028 elections, U.S. politics, third term debate, democracy

  Abuja – October 27, 2025 Human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters , Omoyele Sowore , has regained his freedom after being rearrested by security operatives in Abuja last week. Sowore, who was picked up during a solidarity protest near the Federal High Court over the continued detention of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu , was held for several days before being granted bail alongside other activists. Sources close to the activist confirmed that he has now been released from police custody. In the live broadcast, Sowore described his latest ordeal as “proof that tyranny fears truth,” vowing to continue his advocacy for justice, freedom, and accountability in Nigeria . By Oriontimes Abuja Bureau More details shortly on www. oriontimes.com.ng

 Yaoundé — October 27, 2025 | Oriontimes International Desk Cameroon ’s long-time leader, President Paul Biya , has been declared winner of the October 12, 2025 presidential election, securing another term in office. The 92-year-old, who has ruled the Central African nation since 1982, remains the world’s oldest serving head of state. According to official results released by Cameroon’s Constitutional Council , Biya garnered 53.66 percent of the total votes, defeating his closest challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary , who received 35.19 percent. The outcome, however, has been met with tension and opposition protests across several cities, as Bakary’s camp rejected the result, citing irregularities and voter intimidation. Reports from Reuters and The Guardian indicate incidents of sporadic gunfire in some regions as security forces moved to disperse crowds. Biya’s renewed victory extends an already record-breaking tenure spanning more than four decades, making him not only Africa’s l...

  The Beautiful Burial of Brilliance in an Empire with Scanty Thrones By Abioye Tosin Lawrence | Oriontimes Editorial In a society overflowing with self-acclaimed philosophers, where every voice assumes the tone of wisdom and every hand claims mastery, true talent often gasps for air. Nigeria , once hailed as the giant of Africa , has become the graveyard of brilliance, a land where intellect is celebrated in speech but suffocated in structure. We live in the world of many Socrates , yet few true learners. Everyone speaks, few listen. Everyone teaches, but only a handful understand. And amid this noise of assumed intelligence, raw talent is buried under the weight of hypocrisy , nepotism, and the national addiction to mediocrity. The Irony of Brilliance and the Poverty of Power It has become an all-too-familiar irony: the graduate serves the dropout; the thinker reports to the trader; the strategist obeys the loudest voice, not the wisest one. We have replaced intellect with influ...