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Oyo gears up for historic Olubadan coronation event

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Ahead of the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Friday, September 26, 2025, the Oyo State Government has expressed readiness to host the historic event.

Also, security in the town had been strengthened ahead of the expected arrival of President Bola Tinubu and other important dignitaries.

On Wednesday, the advance team of the President arrived in Ibadan from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, in preparation for the event.

A senior security personnel, who did not want his name in print, told The PUNCH in Ibadan, “We are not here to play. We want decorum.

“If you are not invited, why can’t you look for somewhere else to enjoy the programme through available television or radio stations.

“Even if you are my friend or friends, stay clear of Mapo if you don’t have anything to do there.”

Ahead of his installation, Oba Ladoja, on Tuesday night, began traditional rites and remained in seclusion.

He will mark his 81st birthday today in seclusion, though activities were lined up across the town to celebrate the monarch.

Ladoja, who would receive both the staff of office and instrument of office on Friday, September 26, succeeds Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90 years.

Mapo wears new look

The venue of the coronation, the historic Mapo Hall, started wearing a new look on Wednesday, as painting and cleaning up of the environment were ongoing.

The venue is the ceremonial coronation venue for Ibadan monarchs through the ages.

Successive Olubadans in history have been presented with the staff of office amid pomps at the Mapo Hall, after their crowning and traditional rites at the Oluwo palace in Oja’ba.

A visit to the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ring Road, revealed ongoing preparations to receive and entertain important guests.

The venue is now fully set to host dignitaries arriving in Ibadan to celebrate the new monarch.

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Ibadan airport opens

The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, Ibadan, which was shut down for an upgrade to international standards in March 2025, reopened for two weeks in honour of the new Olubadan.

The remodelled airport received its first aircraft at 9:14 am on Wednesday, when the presidential advance team arrived for the Olubadan coronation..

A statement by the Oyo State Government, signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said the successful landing underscored the readiness and capabilities of the airport’s infrastructure to handle high-profile flights safely and efficiently.

With the presidential flight scheduled to follow soon, the inaugural flight set a positive precedent for future arrivals and departures at the remodelled airport.

Hotels fully booked

Hotels across Ibadan witnessed a surge in patronage on Wednesday, as visitors trooped into the city ahead of Friday’s historic coronation.

Many facilities around the venue of the event, particularly in Ring Road, Mokola, Sango, Secretariat, Ikolaba, and Bodija, were fully booked, with guests arriving from within and outside the state.

The influx of dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, and tourists has turned the city into a beehive of activity.

Falola urges balance between tradition, modernity

Renowned Ibadan-born historian, Prof Toyin Falola, on Wednesday, urged Ibadan leaders to carefully balance their cherished traditions with the pressing demands of modern development.

He gave the advice in his coronation lecture delivered ahead of the coronation.

The lecture, titled “Ibadan in History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity,” was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

The programme was part of a week-long activity preceding the main coronation ceremony on Friday.

In his presentation, Falola highlighted Ibadan’s central role in Nigeria and Africa’s history.

He said, “Ibadan has always been a cultural epicentre. In the 19th century, it was the largest city in sub-Saharan Africa and a hub for politics, trade, and military power. It was also the center of palm oil production, exported to Europe.”

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Falola said Ibadan’s traditions remained visible in everyday life.

“The past is still with us in the amala we eat, the language we speak, the clothes we wear, and our performances. These remind us that Ibadan is not only a city of history but also a city of the future,” he said.

On the significance of Ladoja ascending the throne, the historian stressed that Ibadan would benefit greatly from the monarch’s political and administrative experience.

“Having a former governor and senator as Olubadan is significant. His exposure as a politician, statesman, and administrator will guide Ibadan toward modernisation.

“The city must tackle issues like garbage collection, street cleaning, tree planting, and environmental upliftment. These are part of the responsibilities of modern leadership,” Falola said.

He further argued that kingship in Ibadan had never been static but had always adapted to new realities.

“The Olubadan, out of necessity, must balance tradition with the evolving demands of democracy, globalisation, and urban expansion,” he said.

Instead of monetary contributions, Falola revealed that his gift to the Olubadan would be intellectual.

“Today, I will not donate money to the series of events. Not that I do not have the money to give. Instead, I will give him a book to read. Just one book, spanning over 400 pages. I wrote it for this momentous occasion,” he said.

He emphasised that Ibadan should not only be seen as a historical city but also as an active contributor to African and global thought.

“The coronation is not a casual ceremony. It is part of how Ibadan negotiates authority, legitimacy, and the preservation of its culture in an ever-evolving world.

“This book connects the throne and the classroom, the palace and the archive.

“This publication understands that the book, ‘Ibadan in History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity,’ weaves together themes of politics, culture, literature, and urban development.

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“It draws on Prof Falola’s decades-long scholarship, including earlier works such as ‘The Political Economy of a Pre-Colonial African State.’ ‘Ibadan, 1830–1900’ (1984) and Ibadan: Foundation, Growth and Change, 1830–1960 (2012).”

The historian also highlighted Ibadan’s intellectual and cultural powerhouses, including the University of Ibadan and generations of artists, writers, and scholars who have shaped Yoruba and African identities.

He, therefore, called for reflection on how Ibadan can embrace modernity without abandoning its heritage.

“This book ensures that Ibadan is remembered not just as a city of the past but as one of the future.

“It honours both a city and its monarch and situates Oba Rashidi Ladoja as a modern leader who must balance tradition with democracy, globalisation, and urban expansion,” he said.

Obasanjo warns Ladoja against political conflicts

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has congratulated Oba Ladoja on his formal ascension to the throne of Olubadan.

He also advised the new monarch to separate tradition and politics, noting that the new position requires humility and tolerance, among others.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media,  Kehinde Akinyemi, made available to newsmen on Wednesday, Obasanjo, in Yoruba royalty salutation, prays “Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese.”

The former president, who, according to the statement, is presently in New York, United States, for the 80th United Nations General Assembly session, said, “I take this opportunity to congratulate you in advance of the formal announcement. Ade a pe lori, bata a pe lese.”

He added, “It is an exalted and responsible position to be the traditional ruler of all Ibadan people. It requires humility, patience, divine wisdom, tolerance, and advice from wide and varied quarters to succeed.

“Traditional rulership does not compete or conflict with political rulership. I wish you all the best and the grace, guide, and direction of Almighty God.”

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Fans mourn late Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo

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Fans and followers of late Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo across social media platforms have expressed sadness over his demise, describing the incident as shocking and heartbreaking.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning since Tuesday when news of the actor’s passing surfaced online.

Social media posts by his close colleagues, and trending media reports, stated that he died after a prolonged battle with cancer.

The incident has continued to generate frenzy on social media platforms, with fans across Nigeria and beyond pouring in condolence messages and tributes to the late thespian.

A fan, @Mr. Rekindled of AFC, asked: “Is this some late April Fool joke. God, what kind of news is this? Rest in peace bro I don’t even know what to type”.

@perpetua Ebubech wrote: “Rest well Alex I am done pressurising myself and being ungrateful. Being alive is enough. Aaaaaah Alex”.

@Amed Oshiorenua commented: “This one hurts me ooo”.

@sheismirah_bakr noted that: “Indeed, every soul shall taste death. May we leave behind kindness, love, and good memories May we be celebrated while we are alive, not only mourned when we are gone”.

@oheneba_nanayere_joyce wrote: “Ooo my God, have mercy on us”.

@SAMPSOLO on X wrote: “Omoh, sometimes when I hear such news I just sit down and think about life.

“Everything we’re struggling for can just end in one moment. It’s really scary”.

@nyarkowai23 said: “Aww fine boy. May his soul rest in peace”.

@_emefaaa wrote: “This is really sad, may his soul rest in peace”.

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@ceeyahs_xclusivcollection commented: “Social media makes a lot of us look like we are living happily when we are actually fighting our battles. Remember we are all passing through something. Stay humble, stay kind”.

@DOG3tt said: “What’s wrong with Nollywood, why is everyone dying young?”

@bbelleamieeee wrote: “I loved him in Keeping My Man with Ramsey and Ini. Sad news… rest easy Alex”.

Ekubo’s passing has also attracted tributes from his colleagues and other celebrities, with many describing him as a talented actor and a kind-hearted friend.

Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo wrote: “Life is not only fickle, it can also feel unreal. Even as I type this, I still struggle to fully process it, and it deeply saddens me to hear this news.

“Rest in peace to a truly great soul. You came, you saw, and you conquered. We are proud of the life you lived, the journey you embraced, and the legacy you leave behind.

“Sleep well, our dear Alex.”

Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also wrote: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”

Singer Peter Okoye simply posted: “RIP”.

Actor Chinedu Ikedieze wrote: “Jesus, how?”

In a post on his X page, human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore described the late actor as a “rare talent”.

“My profound condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Nollywood star Alexx Ekubo, who I understand passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer.

“I never met him personally, but I still cannot forget a movie of his I watched on an Emirates flight from New York to Dubai en route to Nairobi.

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“He was a rare talent whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly. May he rest in power.”

NAN reports that Alex Ekubo, born on April 10, 1986, was widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most versatile actors, known for his performances in several hit films and television productions.

However, his prolonged absence from the public had raised concerns among fans and colleagues, as he stayed away from social media and public events for a long time.

His last post on Instagram was made in December 2024, shortly after reports emerged that his engagement to US-based model Fancy Acholonu had been called off.

(NAN)

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Why I assaulted my daughter, Ilebaye – Father

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Father of former Big Brother Naija All Stars winner, Ilebaye Odiniya, Emmanuel Odiniya, has broken his silence over the viral altercation involving his daughter, claiming he was provoked before allegedly assaulting her during a family confrontation.

In a voice note purportedly from Odiniya, and shared on Facebook on Sunday by Kogi-based journalist, Jeremiah Promise Enemona Ocheme, now circulating online, the father said the incident was not driven by hatred for his daughter but by frustration over what he described as her changed behaviour after winning the reality TV show.

“I want to put the records straight that what led to that incident was not that I don’t love my daughter. She is one of my best children,” he said.

He claimed he made sacrifices and mobilised support for her emergence as the winner of the BBNaija All Stars edition.

“During her time in the Big Brother Naija house, I contributed a lot. I stood by my daughter and made sure people voted for her massively. I used my influence and connections, including governors and other people, to support her until she won,” he stated.

According to him, their relationship allegedly deteriorated after her victory, accusing the reality star of becoming disrespectful and physically aggressive towards him.

“After she came out and won, she changed. Ilebaye stopped listening to me. I would book her appointments five to six times in a week and she wouldn’t give me audience. She stopped regarding me as her father,” he alleged.

The father further criticised her lifestyle, particularly her alleged cosmetic procedures.

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“I warned her against getting cosmetic surgery — face reconstruction with fillers and BBL. She’s too young for that,” he said.

Emmanuel also alleged that his daughter had physically attacked him on previous occasions.

“She has hit me twice, and I didn’t do anything to her. One day she took an AC hanger and hit me with it till blood started gushing out of my body,” he claimed.

Speaking on the latest confrontation, he alleged that the reality TV star assaulted him first before the situation escalated.

“In this recent incident, she insulted me, hit me first with a sea hanger, causing bleeding, pushed me, and then broke an electric lantern on my head,” he said.

He also accused her of neglecting him financially despite his health challenges.

“I am very sick and needed to go for medical treatment in Dubai. I called Ilebaye to help me with some money and promised to refund her. She said she didn’t have money. But I saw her video spraying bundles of naira at a colleague’s wedding,” he alleged.

The father further alleged that his daughter negatively influenced her younger brother and interfered in his marriage.

“She has also influenced her younger brother with drugs, and he was expelled from school because of it. She once advised me to divorce her mother,” he added.

Despite the accusations, Emmanuel maintained that he still loved his daughter and wanted reconciliation.

“I still love my daughter deeply. I want her to change and do better. I ask for prayers from Nigerians. The police have already intervened and settled the matter,” he said.

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PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Ilebaye, alongside members of her family, including her father and younger brothers, were hospitalised following the confrontation at their Abuja residence.

The incident became public after the reality TV star shared an emotional livestream video crying for help, sparking concern among fans and followers online.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, Josephine Adeh, disclosed that all parties involved sustained injuries and were receiving medical treatment.

“The man is in the hospital; he is sick. All of them were badly injured and are all in the hospital,” Adeh had said.

She also stated that the siblings were under police protective custody while investigations continued into the matter.

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Kwara concludes airlift of pilgrims for 2026 Hajj

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The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has concluded the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise with the departure of the last batch of 223 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrims departed aboard Max Air from the Babatunde Idi-Agbon International Airport, Ilorin, at about 6:05 am on Saturday.

The development was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Press Secretary of the Board, Sodiq Abdulmumin Folarin.

Speaking before the departure, the Chairman of the Board, Prof. Mashood-Mahmud Jimba, thanked Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for supporting the successful transportation of the pilgrims.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, advised the pilgrims “to be good ambassadors of the state and country at large while in Saudi Arabia.”

Also speaking, the Amirul-Hajj and Etsu Tsaragi, Aliyu Abdullahi Kpotwa, urged the pilgrims to pray for peace and unity in the country and the state.

The final batch was accompanied by Jimba, Abdulkadir, Kpotwa and other state officials.

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