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Showing posts from May, 2026

Arsenal Paint London Red as Record 1.5 Million Fans Flood Historic Victory Parade – Metropolitan Police

By OrionTimes Sports Desk | June 1, 2026 London witnessed an unforgettable football celebration as Arsenal's victory parade reportedly became the largest public parade ever held in the United Kingdom, with an estimated 1.5 million supporters turning out to celebrate the Gunners' historic achievement. According to reports attributed to the Metropolitan Police, the massive turnout eclipsed previous records, transforming the streets of North London into a sea of red and white as jubilant fans gathered to welcome their heroes. From the early hours of the day, supporters occupied major roads, public squares, and vantage points along the parade route, creating a carnival-like atmosphere rarely seen in English football. Chants echoed through the capital while Arsenal flags and banners dominated the skyline. The open-top bus procession carried players, coaches, and club officials through packed streets as fans celebrated a campaign that will be remembered for generations. The sc...

Edo NDC Crisis Deepens as Aspirants Demand Cancellation of Screening Results, Allege Corruption and Imposition

BENIN CITY, EDO STATE – A fresh wave of controversy has engulfed the Edo State chapter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as a coalition of aggrieved aspirants and party members has formally demanded the immediate cancellation of the recently released screening results for aspirants seeking various elective positions within the party. In a strongly worded protest letter dated May 31, 2026, and addressed to the State Chairman of the NDC in Edo State, the concerned aspirants described the screening exercise as "highly irregular, compromised, and shameful," alleging that the process was riddled with misconduct capable of undermining the party's credibility and democratic principles. The petition, signed by Comrade Idahosa Frederick on behalf of concerned aspirants and party members, accused the screening committee of lacking transparency and failing to adhere to due process. According to the petitioners, several qualified aspirants were disqualified without fair ...

Olu of Alajue Calls for Unity, Return of Indigenes, and Development Drive in Ede Land

The historic Alajue Ileya Fiesta 2026 brought together sons and daughters of Alajue Kingdom Ede from across Nigeria and the diaspora in a colourful celebration marked by cultural pride, reflection, and calls for accelerated development. Speaking with journalists at the event, the Olu of Alajue Kingdom Ede, Oba (Dr) Sulaimon Adebayo Olamilekan (Kusenla 1), described the gathering as a unifying platform for indigenes of the kingdom to reconnect with their roots and strengthen communal bonds. “We are here to celebrate Ileya with our family members, both at home and abroad. This gathering is designed for the sons and daughters of Alajue Kingdom worldwide to know there is a place called Alajue Ede, the ancestral home that gave birth to them, so they can know one another, celebrate together, and reconnect with those in the diaspora,” the monarch said. He added that the initiative was also aimed at encouraging indigenes to invest in their homeland and contribute to its growth. “We are o...

Modakeke APC Rolls Out Leaders’ Council in Show of Strength Ahead of August 15 Guber Battle

Oriontimes Poitical Desk |31st May, 2026. Poised to work assiduously for the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), during the forthcoming 15th August, 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State, the Modakeke chapter of the APC has successfully inaugurated the apex arm of the party in the community in readiness for the governorship election and the management of the party in the community. The apex body of the APC with the nomenclature of Modakeke APC Leaders' Council(MALCO) under the chairmanship of Chief Wahab Bolarinwa Adetunji, the Asalu of Modakeke, has held its maiden meeting bothering on the modality for winning the forthcoming governorship election. Addressing the members of the APC leadership council in his Modakeke country home on Saturday, the Asalu of Modakeke stated that it was a task for them to contribute their quota towards the electoral victory of their governorship candidate, Asiwaju Oyeba...

Oluwole Oke’s Primary Triumph Reshapes Osun Politics, Raises Stakes for Accord and Strengthens Tinubu’s 2027 Calculus

OrionTimes Political Desk |May 30, 2026 For Accord Party, the road to victory just became steeper as Oluwole Oke's primary win reaffirms his status as one of Osun's most formidable electoral forces. Hon. Oluwole Oke's victory in the party primary has once again reaffirmed his standing as one of the most influential political figures in Osun State. More than securing a ticket for another electoral contest, the outcome has sent a strong message across the political landscape: Oke remains a formidable force whose influence extends beyond his constituency and whose political relevance continues to shape conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections. A Political Brand Built Over Time In politics, longevity without relevance means little. However, Hon. Oluwole Oke has managed to combine both. Having served multiple terms in the House of Representatives, he has established a reputation rooted in constituency engagement, grassroots mobilization, and legislative experience. His...

OOPA Hails Yusuf Idowu’s Promotion, Charges Amotekun On Sustained Security Vigilance

The Osun Online Publishers Association has congratulated Yusuf Idowu Abass following his promotion to the rank of Chief Superintendent Officer in the Osun Amotekun Corps. In a statement signed by the association’s chairman, Abioye Tosin Lawrence, the body described the promotion as a well-deserved recognition of dedication, professionalism, and commitment to grassroots security operations in Osun State. The association noted that the elevation of Yusuf Idowu reflects the growing confidence in the operational effectiveness and public communication structure of the Amotekun Corps, especially at a time when community-based security remains critical to safeguarding lives and property across the state. According to the statement, the promotion also represents a new phase of responsibility and leadership that will further expose the officer to broader security operations, strategic engagement, and greater service delivery within the corps. “OOPA believes this promotion is a testament t...

Ileya Fiesta 2026: Olu of Alajue Kingdom Rallies Sons and Daughters for Grand Development Summit, Obesere Set to Perform

The Olu of Alajue Kingdom, Ede, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sulaimon Adewale Adebayo Olamilekan, (Kusenla 1), has called on sons and daughters of the kingdom to unite for a grand Ileya Fiesta 2026 celebration aimed at fostering love, strengthening communal bonds, and discussing the development of the ancient community. In a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, Olu of Alajue Kingdom revealed that the event is scheduled to commence at 11:00AM on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Alajue Kingdom Palace Square in Ede. According to the royal father, the gathering is designed to promote cordial relationships among indigenes and residents while providing a platform for stakeholders to brainstorm on initiatives capable of advancing the growth and development of the kingdom. The event is expected to attract prominent traditional rulers, community leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and dignitaries from within and outside Osun State. The Timi of Ede, His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Munirudeen Ades...

2027: Debates Emerge Over Hon. Seyi Sowunmi’s Re-Election Prospects

As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum, conversations around representation, accountability, and constituency development have begun shaping public discourse across various constituencies, including Ojo Federal Constituency in Lagos State. At the center of recent debates is Hon. Oluwaseyi Ayopo Sowunmi, popularly known as Seyi Sowunmi, who was elected into the House of Representatives in 2023 under the platform of the Labour Party (LP). Reports indicate that the lawmaker has since moved politically across parties, recently aligning with the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). However, some political stakeholders and constituents have continued to express mixed reactions regarding his stewardship and political trajectory. Critics argue that despite nearly a full legislative cycle in office, the constituency has yet to witness enough visible infrastructural and developmental projects capable of matching the expectations that accompanie...

WE TALK, WE GATHER, WE WRITE — YET NOTHING CHANGES

In Nigeria, the problems are no longer hidden mysteries buried beneath the soil of governance. They are visible in the eyes of hungry youths, in abandoned farmlands, in overcrowded unemployment queues, and in the growing silence of citizens who once believed that democracy would eventually answer their prayers. Year after year, conferences are held. Stakeholders gather in air-conditioned halls. Intellectuals dissect corruption. Analysts debate insecurity. Politicians promise reforms. Committees draft recommendations. Reports are written and submitted with ceremonial handshakes and smiling photographs. Yet, outside those conference rooms, the same problems wait patiently like embers beneath dry grass, ready to rise again into conflagration. We talk. We gather. We write. Yet nothing changes. This is the irony of modern Nigeria, a country deeply aware of its wounds but seemingly unable to heal them. The tragedy is not merely bad leadership. Nations have survived poor leaders before....

Eid-el-Adha: Osun Amotekun Assures Residents of Maximum Security Before, During, and After Festivities

The Osun Amotekun Corps has reassured residents of Osun State of adequate security arrangements ahead of the Eid-el-Adha celebrations, urging citizens to celebrate peacefully without fear of harassment, intimidation, or security threats. The assurance was contained in a statement issued in Osogbo by the Corps Commander, High Chief Dr Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele through the Public Relations Officer of the Corps, CSA Yusuf Idowu Abass. According to the statement, the corps has put in place comprehensive security measures across the state to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration for all residents and visitors. The Corps Commander, High Chief Dr Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele disclosed that operatives of the Osun Amotekun Corps have been strategically deployed to various locations across the state, including worship centres, markets, motor parks, major highways, recreational centres, and other critical points, to maintain law and order throughout the festive period. He stated tha...

Mammoth Crowd, Encomiums Trail Oyebamiji’s Eid-el-Kabir Prayer Visit To Ikire

... Advocates Loyalty, Faithfulness With fanfare, pomp and pageantry as residents of Ikire in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State trooped out en masse to cheer the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji popularly called AMBO in celebration of Eid-el-Kabir. The ecstatic residents of the ancient town, in their numbers took to the streets from their homes to catch a glimpse and cheer Oyebamiji while returning from Ikire Central Eid Praying Ground. This is just as Oyebamiji called for loyalty, faithfulness and total dedication to the Will and Commandments of God. Oyebamiji alongside his wife, Dr. Sekinah Bola-Oyebamiji, children and lkire-born political associates prayed at Ikire central Eid praying ground. The jubilant residents were seen showering encomiums on Oyebamiji for his outstanding performance and kind heartedness to humanity. Fielding questions from journalists at the praying ground, Oyebamij...

Eid-el-Kabir: Put Nigeria First, Embrace Peace, Unity And Sacrifice — Olowu of Kuta Urges Nigerians

Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun iii, has urged muslim Ummah and Nigerians to let peace , unity and selflessness be their watchword as the world celebrates Eid-el-Kabir. In his Sallah message, the revered monarch described Eid-el-Kabir as a deeply spiritual occasion that symbolises sacrifice, dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to humanity. According to the monarch, the period offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on the state of the nation and promote messages of hope, harmony, and peaceful coexistence devoid of provocation or divisive sentiments. “This is the time to reflect on happenings around us and preach hope, unity, and understanding among ourselves as one people,” Oba Makama stated. The royal father urged Nigerians to continue living together peacefully regardless of religious beliefs, political affiliations, or ethnic differences, stressing that national unity remains paramount at this critical period in the country’s dem...

From Abuja to Gombe: CONNYSA’s Fight Against Insecurity Spreads Nationwide

The Director General of the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Safety and Security Affairs (CONNYSA), Amb. Ade Mario, has reiterated the organization’s commitment to tackling insecurity and youth-related social vices across Nigeria through sustained sensitisation and community-based engagements. Speaking during the OrionTimes Podcast, Amb. Ade Mario lamented the poor level of civic orientation and public understanding of governance, stressing that stronger collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) is crucial in rebuilding trust between the government and citizens. “The level of orientation, sanitisation, and awareness about what governance truly means is still poor. That is exactly where the National Orientation Agency needs to come in,” he stated. The CONNYSA DG noted that many government interventions often miss their target because leaders fail to engage communities and understand their pressing needs. According to him, governance can only become impactful when leade...

Amb. Ade Mario to OrionTimes Podcast: “Bad Governance Created Many Social Vices in Nigeria”

The Director General of the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Safety and Security Affairs (CONNYSA), Amb. Ade Mario, has blamed the rising wave of insecurity and social vices among Nigerian youths on poor governance and the exclusion of young people from critical decision-making processes. Featuring on the OrionTimes Podcast, Amb. Ade Mario stressed that many government policies continue to fail because the people most affected, the youths are often sidelined from the decision-making process. He noted that policies imposed without youth inclusion often breed frustration, distrust, and insecurity among young people. According to him, “Poor governance translates into insecurity among youths because young people are not on the round table where decisions and policies are made. You cannot impose policies on people who were never involved in shaping them.” The CONNYSA DG further lamented the poor level of civic orientation and awareness about governance across communities, noting th...

No Executive Bill Lasts Beyond 72 Hours — Olowu of Kuta Urges Tinubu to Empower Monarchs

Oriontimes News Desk| May 25, 2026 Constitutional relevance of traditional rulers, deployment of modern technology and strengthening of regional security outfits have been described as solutions to tackle insecurity in Nigeria A first-class monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Adekunle Oyelude Makama (CON), made this known while receiving the new leadership of the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA) in his Kuta palace on Sunday. The leadership of the association paid a high-profile courtesy visit to the monarch to inform him of the change in leadership and appreciate his supportive roles as patron. The visit was blended with media engagement, royal diplomacy, and critical discussions on national security, governance, and the constitutional relevance of traditional institutions in Nigeria. Speaking during the visit, the Olowu of Kuta addressed the growing wave of insecurity in the Southwest, noting that the security challenges currently confronting the region were long...

NDC Solidarity Movement Backs King Adekunle Okuneye, Rejects Alleged Plot to Destabilize Lagos Leadership

The Nigeria Democratic Congress Solidarity Movement Parliament in Lagos State has thrown its full weight behind the Hon. King Adekunle Okuneye-led Executive Council of the party, describing the leadership as the legitimate and duly elected structure steering the affairs of the party in the state. In an open letter dated May 25, 2026, and addressed to the National Chairman and National Leadership of the party in Abuja, the group reaffirmed its unwavering endorsement of the Lagos State Executive Council that emerged after the May 4, 2026 State Congress. According to the letter signed by Comrade Babatunde Femi Johnson, State Leader of the NDC Solidarity Movement Parliament, the congress was duly monitored by officials of Independent National Electoral Commission and observed by relevant stakeholders, leading to the emergence of Hon. King Adekunle Okuneye as Pro-tem State Chairman through what the group described as a transparent consensus process. The group hailed Okuneye’s leadershi...

“Traditional Rulers Have Intelligence Capacity but No Legal Authority,” Says Olowu of Kuta During OOPA Visit

The leadership of the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA) on Sunday paid a high-profile courtesy visit to the Olowu of Kuta, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Hammed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, in a meeting that blended media engagement, royal diplomacy, and critical discussions on national security, governance, and the constitutional relevance of traditional institutions in Nigeria. The OOPA delegation commended the first-class traditional ruler for his unwavering support for successive administrations and his consistent advocacy for peace, development, and national unity. The association also sought royal blessings and guidance from the monarch as it continues to promote responsible journalism and public engagement across Osun State. Speaking during the visit, the Olowu of Kuta addressed the growing wave of insecurity in the Southwest, noting that the security challenges currently confronting the region were long foreseen. “The wave of insecurity in the Southwest is what had been fores...

Traditional Rulers, Stakeholders Celebrate Omoyele’s Leadership Journey at Book Presentation

A gathering of dignitaries, traditional rulers, labour leaders, security stakeholders, and community members turned into a celebration of leadership, destiny, and service as prominent personalities showered encomiums on the Corps Commander of the Osun Amotekun Corps, High Chief Dr. Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, during the public presentation and review of a book chronicling his life, leadership journey, and contributions to society. The colourful event, held amidst excitement and admiration from guests who came from different parts of Osun State and beyond, highlighted the impact of Dr. Omoyele’s service to humanity, his dedication to community development, and his role in strengthening the security architecture of Osun State through the Amotekun Corps. In his profoundly eloquent welcome address, Aree Olagunju Joseph, the esteemed Secretary of the Planning Committee, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the distinguished dignitaries and eminent personalities in attendance. He e...

NDC Lagos Condemns “False, Misleading and Malicious” Publication Targeting State Leadership

The attention of the leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Lagos State Chapter, has been drawn to a misleading and malicious publication currently circulating online under the title: “A Call For An Immediate Vote of No Confidence on the Failed Leadership of NDC Lagos.” Ordinarily, the party would not dignify baseless propaganda and politically motivated attacks with a response. However, in the interest of our members, aspirants, supporters, and the general public, it has become necessary to set the record straight and correct the false narratives deliberately being spread to create confusion and disunity within the party. First, we categorically reject the false allegations of extortion, exploitation, and coercion against the leadership of NDC Lagos State. At no point were aspirants forced or compelled to make any unofficial payments. The only approved payments made by aspirants were the officially recognized screening fees as directed and approved by the National ...

2027: President Tinubu Sweeps Osun APC Presidential Primary Amid Strong Party Mobilisation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday was declared the winner of the presidential election primary of the Nigeria's ruling party - the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Osun State. President Tinubu scored 100,888 votes to defeat his co-contender, Mr. Stanley Osayamen Osifor who polled zero vote in the just concluded primary election held in the state. President Tinubu who is seeking re-election under the platform of the ruling party - APC is justling for the party ticket in a contest with his opponent - Stanley Osayamen Osifor, as all registered members of the party across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in Nigeria were at the poll to elect the party flag-bearer for the 2027 presidential election. Declaring the collated results of the primary, held in Osun State, in Osogbo on Saturday, the Returning Officer for Osun State Presidential Primary Election, His Excellency, Adegboyega Oyetola, declared that all the accredited members of the party wh...

Tension in Oye Ekiti as Suspected Gunmen Reportedly Attack Area Near FUOYE

Residents of Oye Ekiti were thrown into fear and confusion following reports of heavy gunfire allegedly linked to suspected bandits around the environment of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti on Saturday evening. According to information gathered, multiple gunshots were reportedly heard within the area, forcing residents and students into panic as uncertainty surrounded the situation. A source familiar with the development, while speaking on phone, allegedly confirmed that armed men were “spraying bullets” around the vicinity before the call was abruptly disconnected, further heightening fears over the unfolding incident. As of the time of filing this report, authorities were yet to release an official statement regarding the attack, while details surrounding possible casualties, arrests, or the exact location of the incident remain unclear. The development has triggered anxiety among students, parents, and residents, especially amid growing concerns over insecurity across parts o...

𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋: 𝐒𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐍𝐒 𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐒𝐌, 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐒 𝐈𝐓 𝐀 ‘𝐆𝐋𝐎𝐁𝐀𝐋 𝐒𝐎𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐁𝐋𝐄𝐌’

In an open letter, the Atlético Madrid manager distanced the issue from any single country, stressing that it reflects a deeper, global concern. He described racism as a “worldwide social problem” following recent incidents of racist chants in football, urging a broader societal response beyond the sport.“Racism is a social and worldwide problem, it’s not from Spain, nor Argentina, nor Brazil, nor anywhere… it’s a social problem,” Simeone said. He also pointed to what he described as a long-term decline in societal values, linking the persistence of racism to a loss of respect across key institutions. “We lost respect several years ago, the respect we had for our parents, for teachers at school, for the police, for the coach… that all has got lost,” he added. Simeone called for collective responsibility in addressing the issue, emphasizing awareness and moral reorientation as essential steps toward change. “We all have to work on it, with the awareness and the realization that wi...

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