Controversy Trails Selection of New Odemo of Isara-Remo*

Isara-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.

The passing of the Odemo of Isara-Remo on May 1st, 2025, was a moment of deep mourning for the town, sadly however, the succession process that followed has since sparked controversy, anger, petitions, and widespread public discontent.

By custom and tradition, the Odemo stool rotates among six ruling houses of the town, with this cycle falling on the Otete ruling house, which presented seven eligible candidates in no particular order:

1. Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Sonupe

2. Engr. Oladele Amoda

3. Dr. Kehinde Osifade

4. Olakunle Sodipe

5. Adesina Sodipe

6. Bashorun Oluwole Ogunbayo

7. Otunba Fatai Sowemimo

According to the rules, each contestant was initially required to procure the stool contestant form at ₦5 million as part of the screening process, though reports revealed that the fee was later reduced to ₦500,000 after consultations.

In accordance with the Yoruba tradition and culture of which Remo is, the selection of an Oba is guided by Ifa divination rather than voting. According to sources, the Oracle was consulted twice in public view, and a ranking was provided. The divination reportedly placed Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Sonupe first, followed by Engr. Oladele Amoda and Dr. Kehinde Osifade. Other candidates such as Olakunle Sodipe and Adesina Sodipe were ranked in the order of 4th and 5th, while Bashorun Oluwole Ogunbayo and Otunba Fatai Sowemimo placed 6th and 7th respectively.

The Oracle was also said to have warned that the distortion and manipulation of the process other than as divinely chosen, would bring hardship, unrest and discomfort to the town a concern that some residents took to heart religiously.

On September 8th 2025, during the scheduled selection at Isara palace, residents were unsettled by the presence of multiple uniformed operatives and even an armored vehicle. While officials described it as a routine security measure for peace and order, eyewitnesses interpreted it as a tactic of intimidation.

At the conclusion of proceedings, Bashorun Oluwole Ogunbayo, a real estate businessman, was announced as winner with all nine kingmakers reportedly voting in his favor. Allegations quickly surfaced that each kingmaker had been offered ₦10 million and a parcel of land. Later that evening, Ogunbayo was escorted into the Ipebi seclusion chamber, sparking fresh uproar, controversy and discontent.

The outcome has been met with discontent among indigenes at home and abroad. Critics argue that tradition was disregarded, the Oracle’s guidance ignored, and undue influence brought to bear on the process. They note with concern that the candidate ranked second to the last by Ifa divination has now been declared the town’s monarch.

Several diaspora groups have petitioned Governor Dapo Abiodun, appealing him to investigate the process, halt what they describe as a "manipulation and imposition,” and ensure that the sanctity of the Isara Remo tradition is respected and upheld.

For now, Isara-Remo remains on the edge, tense and divided between those who support the declaration of Ogunbayo, and those who insist the Ifa verdict and due process must be respected to preserve the dignity of the Odemo stool for the peace, progress and prosperity of Isara Remo.

Kasali Urges Stricter Policies to Push Churches

 The Former director general yemi osinbajo campaign organization and the General Overseer of the Foundation of Truth Assembly, Reverend Yomi Kasali, has called for tighter government policies that would compel churches across the country to play more active roles in tackling poverty.

Speaking with newsmen, Reverend Kasali criticized some church founders for leading extravagant lifestyles while over 70 percent of their congregants live below the poverty line.

He explained that the forthcoming 2025 conference, tagged The Giant Killer, with the theme, The Stone And The Slingshot, would focus on strategies to alleviate poverty among more than 500 Nigerians.

The cleric further stressed the need for government to grant tax holidays to institutions that channel part of their profits towards supporting the vulnerable. According to him, government, the church, and wealthy individuals must collaborate to improve the lives of struggling Nigerians.

Rev. Kasali said the conference is a call to action for churches to rise as a force for change, compassion and charater and for believers to take their place in confronting the gaints killers tagged poverty.

‎ORUMOGEGE CUP: FOOTBALL TALENTS TO GRAB #3.5m AS Oyo GOVERNMENT, SPEAKER, LAWMAKERS, OTHERS TO STORM OGBOMOSO SOUN’S 2ND ANNIVEESARY.

Story By: Tope Eluyefa

Orumogege 2025 football festival convener, Amos Adewale Ado has called on all stakeholders to recognize the need to continue investing in sports infrastructure, training, and talent development as the Ogbomoso is set to witness the biggest football tournament in the land.

He made this statement at a world press conference where he disclosed that Ogomoso will witness another season of football talents during the tournament where the Acting Governor of Oyo state Barrister Bayo Lawal and the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon Adebo Ogundoyin are expected to lead other special guests to the celebration of the second anniversary of the installation of His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III on Monday, September 8 which will herald the kick off of the tournament.

The kick off of the second edition of Orumogege Football Competition will come up at the main bowl of the Soun Stadium Ogbomoso. This was disclosed during a press conference addressed earlier today Tuesday by the chairman of the organising committee Amos Adewale Ado held at the Palace, Oja’gbo.

He called on all stakeholders to work together to create opportunities for our football talents to excel and make a positive impact on the image of the town.

The competition whose first edition held last year and which will feature female football this year is to commemorate the second anniversary of the installation of the co-chairman council of traditional rulers in Oyo state,  Soun of Ogbomosoland His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III who was installed on Friday September 8, 2023.

Amos noted the competition apart celebrating the monarch represents a portrayal of the attachment to sports in Ogbomoso as well as belief in the power of sports to unite, inspire and empower.

“It is another celebration of the vibrant spirit of sports in Ogbomosoland. The triumph of Orumogege One has made it the most anticipated football festival in our ancient city.

“Orumogege Football Festival is a testament to the power of football to unite, inspire, and empower our community.”

He emphasized the competition aims to discover and nurture talents.

“As we showcase the talents of our young footballers, we recognize the importance of nurturing and developing their skills. We honor their dedication, hard work, and perseverance, which have brought them to this moment.

“Sport plays a vital role in shaping the minds and bodies of our youth. Through sports, we teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. It fosters a sense of communal unity and promote healthy living.”

Ado alluded to Ogbomoso’s rich sports heritage mentioning some big names in football especially, players and administrators, who hailed from the town.

“Ogbomoso has a rich sporting heritage. Many of Ogbomoso’s sons and daughters have excelled in sports such as late Layi Lagbemiro and Tunde Bamidele who were key players in the then Green Eagles at different times, Oladunni Oyekale who played in the Under -17 and Under-20 World Cups winning silver in 1987 and 1989 respectively. Seyi Olofinjana though not an indigene used the Ogbomoso platform to play for the Super Eagles.

“There are others, but we want to create an enabling environment for greater excellence in sports. We have also produced football administrators and coaches who made national and international impact. Orumogege Football Competition aims to stimulate interest in sports through various activities and rewards.”

He noted if young sports talents are discovered and nurtured the community would hope to gain from it in the future.

“Through this we can hope to reap the fruits in multiple in the future. When our youths reach stardom at the international level, they will benefit themselves, their families and loved ones and the community that nurtured them.”

To attract fabulous prizes, the final will come up in December during the Cradles Carnival. First positions in either categories will smile home with ₦1m each, while first and second runners up will grab ₦500, 000 and ₦250, 000 each.

Dignitaries expected at the kickoff according to the event’s chief organiser include Oyo state Deputy and current Acting Governor, Bayo Lawal; Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke; lawmakers representing Ogbomoso zone at the state and national levels, among others.

Sponsors are called upon to partner in the competition to make it bigger and more enterprising.

“As we unveil the second edition of Orumogege Football Competition, let us also recognize the need to continue investing in sports – infrastructure, training, and talent development. We call on sponsors and well-to-do citizens to support this initiative to make it bigger and more all-encompassing in terms of variety of sports.

“Let us work together to create opportunities for our football talents to excel and make a positive impact on our community.”

Also at the event were Mr. Aina Ayobamiji Ojo, chairman of Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival pre-event committee and who is CEO of Talking Drum Hotel; Hon Rasaq Atanda a.k.a. Razor; Hon Bello Abayomi, FA vice chairman Ogbomoso zone; Comrade Adeniran Adebayo a.k.a. Babs; Salam Muhammed and Mrs. Funmi Ajagbe (Queen Sharon).

Hon. Prince seyi Lawal Commissions Borehole Projects in Ikeja Constituency 1 In a bid to improve access to clean water

In a bid to improve access to clean water in his constituency, the lawmaker representing Ikeja Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. seyi Lawal, has commissioned two new borehole water projects in Ward C. 

The projects, located at Ogunsolu Street and Obaganwa Street, are part of Hon. Lawal’s grassroots development initiatives aimed at meeting the basic needs of residents.

At the commissioning ceremony, Chairman of the Onikere Community Development Association (CDA), Mr. Olatunji Tikolo, commended the lawmaker for addressing a long-standing need in the community.

> “We’ve had many representatives in the House of Assembly, but none have remembered our ward like this. We sincerely appreciate Hon. Lawal for thinking of us,” Tikolo said.

In his remarks, Hon. Lawal expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and reiterated his commitment to the development of the constituency.

“This is just a start—more projects are on the way. We have concrete plans for our youth, widows, and traders. My goal is to make life better for everyone in Ikeja Constituency 1,” he stated.

He also called on the CDA and residents to take ownership of the boreholes and maintain them properly, assuring them of his continued support.

“If there are any technical issues beyond your control, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office,” he said.

Also present at the event was the councillor representing Ward C in Ikeja Local Government, Hon. Obadeyi Olayinka, who described the project as life-changing.

> “Water is life, and today, Hon. Lawal has brought life to our community. We will ensure these boreholes are well-maintained so that residents benefit for years to come,” he pledged.

The newly commissioned boreholes are part of Hon. Lawal’s broader agenda to enhance infrastructure and improve the quality of life across Ikeja Constituency 1.

You Have Exhibited Extraordinary Leadership – Orumogege Cup Chief Organiser, Amos Celeberate Oba Ghandi @64

The chief organizer of the annual Orumogege football tournament in Ogbomosho and also an Agric business expert, Amos Adewale Ado has said he proudly joins Nigerians, the people and chiefs of Ogbomosho land which cut across all areas around Ogbomosho and the global Yoruba community in commemorating the 64th birthday of His Imperial Majesty Soun of Ogbomosho Oba Olaoye Ghandi who is also co-chairmen Oyo State traditional council of obas.

In a congratulatory message sent to the media, Amos noted the Soun’s extraordinary leadership and maturity since ascending the throne few years ago.

He noted his significant role in preserving the rich traditions of the people in the ancient city , regardless of faith or background, with a vision of peace, progress, and development informed by a detailed 25-year plan to uplift Ogbomoso Land, saying kabiyesi has began the project which shows his extraordinary effort to make sure the city is back with its glory.

Amos Adewale Ado also acknowledged Oba Olaoye deep sense of duty, wisdom, and knowledge as he fulfilled his responsibilities as co-chairmen Oyo state traditional council of Obas and his duties to his town.

 

According to Amos, Oba Olaoye serves as a unifying figure, a steadfast supporter of government policies, and a passionate advocate for religious tolerance, peace, and the unification of our nation.

 

He went on to commend Soun tireless advocacy for women and youth empowerment through education and entrepreneurship, underscoring his admirable philanthropy and unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need throughout Nigeria and beyond.

As the esteemed Yoruba monarch celebrates this significant milestone, Amos Adewale Ado offers his sincere prayers for the continued success and prosperity of His Imperial Majesty’s reign, which will undoubtedly benefit the people of Ife and the nation at large.

 

 

 

POJAN Appoints Dr. Segun Musa as Patron, Urges Journalists to Uphold Objectivity and Seek Knowledge

The Professional Online Journalists Association of Nigeria (POJAN) has appointed Dr. Segun Musa as a Patron of the organization, in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the media, public communication, and national development.

The appointment was announced during a courtesy visit to Dr. Musa’s office, led by POJAN’s team headed by Mr. Oluwaseyi Fadoro. Speaking on behalf of the association, Fadoro praised Dr. Musa’s unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and progress within the media landscape, describing him as a beacon of leadership whose contributions to national discourse have not gone unnoticed.

In his remarks, Dr. Musa expressed gratitude to POJAN for finding him worthy of the honour, assuring the association of his full support.

“I appreciate the group for counting me worthy to be the Patron. I promise to support you in every possible way and I will not disappoint you,” Dr. Musa said.

Dr. Musa also used the opportunity to encourage members of POJAN to uphold objectivity in their reporting and urged them to pursue continuous learning to further strengthen their professionalism.

 “You must be more objective in your storytelling and constantly seek more knowledge in your field,” he advised

The appointment marks a significant step in POJAN’s efforts to deepen professionalism and ethical standards in online journalism across Nigeria.

‎EKITI MONARCH CONDEMN ALAAFIN STATEMENT SAYS LEADERSHIP IS NOT BY FORCEFUL ENTHRONEMENT

*OONI'S ROYAL TERRITORIES STEM BEYOND YORUBALAND 

The attention of the Adimula Oloore Oodua, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti and paramount ruler of Mobaland House of on the media attack by the Alaafin's palace on the House of Odùduwà, which transcends beyond the shores of Yorubaland into the wider African space, cutting across the Itsekiri in Delta State, Benin Kingdom, Ga tribe in Accra Ghana, Ashante Kingdom of Kumasi, Ghana as well as the LUO tribe in Uganda, Ga-Adangbe tribe in Ghana, and many more, in which the Arole Odùduwà Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, D.Litt, CFR, Ojaja II, that Ooni does not have the power to confer the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland.

Akogun Banjo Ayinde, Chief Press Secretary to Oore & paramount of Mobaland says for the avoidance of doubt, Ooni has never conceived it, talk less of installing anybody as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland. "We therefore challenge anyone with verifiable evidence that Ooni has traditionally or culturally installed such a title on anyone to present it to the public".

"It is important to note that as the Natural Father of the Yoruba race and spiritual head of Odùduwà race worldwide, the Ooni wields unequivocal authority to bestow titles of territorial relevance if and when necessary. However, His Majesty’s vision and preoccupation are far greater than minor chieftaincy titles. His focus rests on the larger task of unifying our people across Nigeria and Africa who trace their origin to Ilé-Ifẹ̀ for peace, progress, and development that far transcend such narrow contestations".

He says, since ascending the throne of Odùduwà, Ooni has carried out only three official territorial chieftaincy installations namely; The Odole Oodua, Iyalaje OODUA and Yeye Oodua all deeply rooted in spiritual and ancestral imperatives, which Baba Ooni had bestowed on Sir Dr Adebutu Kensington, Princess Dr Toyin KOLADE and Erelu Abiola Dosumu respectively. 

"Our father Ooni, revered not merely as a king but as a deity across the Oduduwa race of which Yoruba is a notable section, does not distribute titles frivolously.Apart from the proposed Ojaja Smart City, Ibadan, the biggest  in Africa which will provide not less than 20000 jobs, Ooni has already established Inagbe Grand Resort in Lagos, Ife Grand Resort and Industrial Hub in Ile-Ife, Ojaja University in Ilorin, Kwara state, Ojajamoore and Ojaja Park and Hotels in Akure, OjajaMoore in Ede, Ile-Ife and Osogbo in Osun creating over 5000 direct jobs for Yoruba youths. He is also constructing a massive Ojaja Park in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state. That is leadership". The statement reads.

"We must put a clear end to the fruitless struggle for emperorship ; an idea long eroded by constitutional democracy. Where are the great empires of Shongai, Mali of Mansa Musa, Roman empires, Othman empires and others today? Those eras of conquering territories through invasion by gorrilarism are gone. If anyone must wage war over territorial rights, let it be with colonialists who had taken the absolute powers of monarchies and emperors and replaced it with what they called constitutional governments not only in Nigeria but globally and not with Oonirìnsà, who has always stood for unity and progress.

The descendants of Oduduwa home and in diaspora know their natural father and they know where they all migrated from; hence, there is no contestation over Ooni’s place as the Arole Odùduwà. Leadership is never by forceful enthronement nor by empty threats, but by service, wisdom, and natural acceptability. Look at the way Ooni travels around the showcasing the Africanist substance, she how he creates businesses scattered across Yorubaland providing jobs for our youths. That is leadership!

We advise the public and right thinking members of society to demand clarity on the referenced Supreme Court judgment being mischievously cited, to know exactly who and what it referred to, so as not to rope Ooni into matters that have no bearing on his sacred stool. Or doesn't he have the right to appoint Dotun Sanusi as Okanlomo Oodua?

In this 21st century where royal fathers across the world are strategizing on how to attract investments, foster unity, and build sustainable development in their domains, reducing the sacred institution of kingship to petty quarrels over minor titles is not and will never be on Ooni’s table. He is well above that.

The House of Odùduwà remains committed to peace, unity, and prosperity across Yorubaland and beyond.