Royal News

Author: Adeyinka Adeiya

  • Emir Sulu-Gambari mourns ex-UNILORIN VC, Prof. Ambali

    Emir Sulu-Gambari mourns ex-UNILORIN VC, Prof. Ambali

    HRH Alh. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR

    The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has expressed deep sadness over the death of former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali, OON.

     

    In a condolence message issued by his Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, the Emir described the late Professor Ambali as an erudite scholar, accomplished administrator, and pride of the Ilorin Emirate whose contributions to education and national development were immense and enduring.

     

    Alhaji Sulu-Gambari added: “Professor Ambali was a man of uncommon intellect, humility, and discipline. As Vice-Chancellor, he repositioned the University of Ilorin as a centre of academic excellence and stability. His tenure was marked by peace, growth, and global recognition for the institution. He served Ilorin, Kwara State, and Nigeria with distinction.

     

    “He was a worthy ambassador of the Emirate who never detached himself from his roots, community, and people. His counsel on matters of education, religion, and community development was always thoughtful and invaluable.”

     

    The monarch extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate and extended family of the deceased, the academic communities of both the University of Ilorin and Kwara State University, Malete, as well as the entire Ilorin Emirate over this painful loss.

     

    Alhaji Sulu-Gambari prayed Almighty Allah to accept his good deeds, forgive his shortcomings, admit him to Al-Jannah Firdaus, and grant the family, colleagues, and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

  • BREAKING…. Kwara PDP Adopts Kale Kawu as Consensus Guber Candidate

    BREAKING…. Kwara PDP Adopts Kale Kawu as Consensus Guber Candidate

    Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki has announced Engr. Kale Kawu as the consensus governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the forthcoming Kwara State governorship election.

    Saraki disclosed this in a statement issued after what he described as extensive consultations with party stakeholders and leading governorship aspirants within the Kwara PDP.

    According to him, the decision followed agreements reached among party leaders and aspirants in the interest of party unity and electoral success.

    He commended the other aspirants for stepping down in support of the consensus arrangement, describing their action as a demonstration of unity, sacrifice, and commitment to the party’s goals.

    “It is this spirit of unity and selflessness that will carry us to victory,” Saraki said.

    The former governor of Kwara State also wished party members, delegates, and supporters a peaceful and successful governorship primary election.

    The PDP is expected to hold its governorship primaries on Saturday as political parties intensify preparations for the next electoral cycle in Kwara State.

  • Kwara North Traditional Rulers Applaud APC Over 2027 Governorship Move

    Kwara North Traditional Rulers Applaud APC Over 2027 Governorship Move

    The Kwara North Traditional Rulers Council has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress for backing the region’s aspiration to produce the next governor of Kwara State in the 2027 general elections.

    In a statement issued on behalf of the council, the Etsu Patigi and Vice Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council of Chiefs, Ibrahim Umar Bologi II, described the development as a significant milestone for the people of Kwara North.

    He said the decision reflected fairness, inclusiveness, equity, and political balance, adding that it demonstrated the leadership’s commitment to justice, unity, and peaceful coexistence across the state.

    According to the monarch, the move has renewed hope among residents of Kwara North and strengthened confidence in the APC-led administration at both the state and national levels.

    Bologi also praised Governor AbdulRazaq for what he described as political maturity and commitment to fairness, saying the administration had continued to promote unity, peace, and development across Kwara State.

    The traditional rulers further commended President Tinubu and the APC leadership for responding to the long-standing calls for a power shift to Kwara North, noting that the decision would remain a notable moment in the state’s political history.

    The council reaffirmed its support for peace, unity, and democratic growth in the state, while offering prayers for the success and well-being of the president, governor, and other APC leaders.

    “We sincerely appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the APC national leadership, state executives, party leaders, and stakeholders for believing in the people of Kwara North and making our long-awaited aspiration a reality,” the statement said.

  • Muslim Group Raises Concerns Over Alleged RCCG Protest Plans

    Muslim Group Raises Concerns Over Alleged RCCG Protest Plans

    A Muslim advocacy organisation, the Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria (MMWG), has cautioned Christian bodies against what it described as “false propaganda” against the Federal and state governments, warning that such actions could threaten national peace and stability.

    The group issued the warning while reacting to an alleged directive by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) asking members nationwide to participate in a planned protest on Sunday, May 24. According to MMWG, the planned demonstrations could disrupt religious harmony and heighten tensions across the country.

    In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Yusuf Agbabiaka, the group accused some Christian organisations of using allegations of “Islamisation,” persecution, and genocide against Christians to inflame public sentiment against the Federal Government.

    MMWG described the planned protests as a potential threat to public order, especially ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, and warned that Muslims could stage counter-protests if the demonstrations go ahead.

    The group also criticised what it called the revival of “false narratives” about Nigeria’s religious situation, referencing comments previously associated with U.S. President Donald Trump. It urged RCCG to abandon any action capable of triggering religious unrest.

    MMWG further called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to caution its member churches against actions that could deepen divisions in the country. It questioned why RCCG, described as the church attended by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, would allegedly support protests against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The group also alleged that Christian organisations had received financial and logistical support from the First Lady in different parts of the country, claiming such gestures had contributed to what it described as growing political and religious tension.

    On politics, MMWG referenced the 2023 presidential primaries involving former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and President Tinubu, arguing that political disagreements should not result in campaigns against the current administration.

    The organisation called on security agencies, including the Police, Army, DSS, and NIA, to prevent any planned rallies it believes could threaten national security. It also urged Muslim representatives in the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) to reconsider their participation in the body, accusing it of failing to address religious tensions adequately.

    MMWG concluded by urging religious groups to prioritise dialogue and cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s challenges, including insecurity, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure, rather than engaging in protests and divisive rhetoric.

  • Kwara South APC Chairmen Endorse Yahaya Seriki

    Kwara South APC Chairmen Endorse Yahaya Seriki

    Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the seven local government areas in Kwara South Senatorial District have endorsed Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki as the party’s preferred governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Kwara State.

    The endorsement was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday after a meeting of the party leaders in the district.

    The APC chairmen commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what they described as a strategic decision aimed at sustaining the developmental policies and achievements of the current administration.

    According to the statement, the governor’s leadership and performance over the years have earned him the credibility to influence the emergence of a successor capable of consolidating on his administration’s programmes.

    “We in Kwara South APC fully align with the decision of His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in supporting Ambassador Yahaya Seriki as the preferred governorship candidate of our great party ahead of the 2027 election,” the statement read.

    The party leaders described Seriki as a loyal party member with strong grassroots connections and the leadership capacity required to move the state forward.

    They added that his experience, competence, and political maturity make him well-positioned to continue the policies and projects of the present administration.

    The chairmen also pledged to mobilise party members, youths, women, and stakeholders across the district in support of Seriki during the APC primaries and the general election.

    “As party leaders at the grassroots, we consider it our responsibility to unite our members and work tirelessly for the success of the party and the emergence of Ambassador Yahaya Seriki as the next Governor of Kwara State,” the statement added.

  • NILDS DG Withdraws from Kwara Governorship Race

    NILDS DG Withdraws from Kwara Governorship Race

    Director General of the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, has withdrawn from the Kwara State governorship race ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries.

    Sulaiman announced his decision in a statement issued on Tuesday, citing extensive consultations and recent political developments.

    He said his decision to join the race was motivated by a desire to contribute to the development, unity, and progress of Kwara State rather than personal ambition.

    “I remain deeply humbled by the encouragement, prayers, goodwill, and overwhelming support shown to me by Kwarans across Kwara North, Kwara South, and Kwara Central,” he said.

    The former governorship aspirant noted that the decision to step down was difficult but necessary, stressing that leadership should be guided by wisdom, responsibility, and commitment to the collective interest.

    Sulaiman reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed continued support for President Bola Tinubu and the party’s leadership.

    “While I may no longer be participating in this contest, my belief in the future of Kwara State remains unwavering. I also reaffirm my loyalty and commitment to our great party, the APC, and to the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.

    He pledged to work for the success of the APC in future elections and to continue supporting peace, unity, and development in Kwara State and across Nigeria.

    Appreciating his supporters, Sulaiman thanked them for their encouragement throughout his campaign, adding that their goodwill and support would remain valued.

    “This may mark the end of a political process, but not the end of our shared commitment to building a better Kwara State,” he added.

  • Emir of Ilorin rejoices with Oba Dr. Olusegun Rotimi on his 85th Birthday

    Emir of Ilorin rejoices with Oba Dr. Olusegun Rotimi on his 85th Birthday

    HRM Obajisun of Ayedun

    The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has extended his warm felicitations to the Obajisun of Ayedun, Oba Dr. Olusegun Abayomi Rotimi JP, as he marks the remarkable milestone of his 85th birthday on 16th May 2026.

    In a message of congratulations issued by his Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, the Emir described Kabiyesi as a monarch of rare dignity, wisdom, and enduring relevance whose life of service continues to inspire the people of Ayedun Kingdom and beyond.

    The Emir noted that Oba Rotimi’s reign has been distinguished by peace, cultural preservation, progressive leadership, and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of his people.

    The Emir prayed for continued good health, strength, and wisdom for the monarch expressing confidence that his legacy of service and honour will remain a guiding light for generations to come.

    The people of Ilorin Emirate join Oba Rotimi and his well-wishers in the joy of his birthday and wish him more years of fruitful reign on the throne.

  • Gambari Seeks PDP Ticket For 2027 Kwara Governorship Poll

    Gambari Seeks PDP Ticket For 2027 Kwara Governorship Poll

    Governorship aspirant Omar Gambari on Thursday picked his nomination form at the secretariat of the People’s Democratic Party in Ilorin ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State.

    Speaking shortly after obtaining the form on May 7, 2026, while addressing an Emirate 98.5 FM correspondent, Gambari said he was prepared to serve the people of Kwara if given the party’s ticket.

    The aspirant disclosed that all governorship hopefuls within the party recently agreed to adopt a consensus arrangement and signed a document committing themselves to respect the party’s final decision.

    According to him, the interest of the party remains supreme, adding that he would support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s candidate.

    “If I get the ticket, Kwara people will see what I will bring to the table in the areas of security, healthcare, education, roads and water supply,” he said.

    Gambari also stressed the need to address insecurity across the state, pledging to hold weekly meetings with security agencies if elected governor.

    He stated that his administration would prioritise the safety of residents to enable farmers, traders and worshippers carry out their daily activities without fear of kidnappers or attackers.

    The PDP governorship hopeful further assured residents of inclusive governance and improved welfare if elected into office.

  • Customs Seizes Contraband Worth Millions In Kwara

    Customs Seizes Contraband Worth Millions In Kwara

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Kwara State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling smuggling activities and strengthening border security despite the continued closure of the Nigeria-Benin Republic border since 2019.

    Speaking on Thursday at a press briefing, Comptroller Najeem Ogundeyi, expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs as well as the entire management of the service for their continued support.

    He also commended the cordial relationship between the command and other sister security agencies, noting that collaboration has remained instrumental in the fight against smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

    As part of efforts to recognise dedication and professionalism within the service, the Comptroller utilised the occasion to reward officers for their unwavering commitments to duty.

    He disclosed that despite the border closure, the command has continued to generate revenue through anti-smuggling operations. According to him, the command generated about ₦3,895,333,182.94 in the first quarter of 2026 through anti-smuggling activities.

    The Comptroller further revealed that since the beginning of 2026, the command had successfully carried out operations across the Maleate axis, Gurumi axis, Okuta axis, Alapa axis and other flashpoints within the state.

    Items intercepted during the operations include 155 bags of 50kg foreign rice valued at ₦52,447,500. 70 pieces of secondhand tyres valued at  ₦1 million, forty one thousand ,480 kegs of vegetable oil valued at 27 million, 170 thousand. 3,697 packages of macaroni valued at 110 million,910 thousand; 297 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at ₦2,370,000, 45 kilograms of cannabis valued at 4 million and 90 thousand naira,376 kilogram of tramadol valued at 564 thousand naira, as well as 19 jerrycans of petroleum products valued at ₦792,400.39 among many others.

    He added that from March 2026 till date, the command recorded nine different seizures with a cumulative duty paid value put at over ₦204 million.

    The Comptroller assured members of the public that the service would continue to deploy strategic measures and intelligence gathering to curb smuggling activities across the state. He also appealed to members of the public to provide timely and useful information that would assist security agencies in carrying out their duties effectively.

    He warned that smugglers and other offenders arrested in connection with illegal activities would be prosecuted accordingly.

    The command also reiterated its collaboration with National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and other relevant agencies in ensuring that harmful and prohibited items do not find their way into the country.

    The conference ended with the official handover of the seized cannabis substances to the Kwara State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for further investigation and necessary action.

  • SSANU, NASU Shut Down UNILORIN Over Indefinite Strike

    SSANU, NASU Shut Down UNILORIN Over Indefinite Strike

    Academic and administrative activities have been paralysed at the University of Ilorin following the commencement of an indefinite strike by non-teaching staff unions.

    Members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) on Monday staged a peaceful protest at the university’s main gate, effectively grounding operations across the campus.

    The unions carried placards demanding improved welfare, payment of withheld salaries, and salary adjustments, insisting on a 45 per cent increment rather than the 30 per cent reportedly proposed by the Federal Government.

    SSANU UNILORIN branch chairman, Prof. Falowo Olushola, said the action followed the government’s failure to conclude the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement with non-teaching staff unions.

    He explained that multiple ultimatums issued since late 2025 had expired without meaningful response, despite what he described as patience from the unions.

    “Our demand is the conclusion, signing and implementation of the 2009 agreement. We reject the 30% outrightly. Our demand is 45%, and that is final,” he said.

    Olushola added that non-teaching staff play essential roles in university operations, including security, ICT, finance, and logistics, and should not be excluded from salary adjustments granted to academic staff.

    Similarly, NASU chairman in the institution, Suberu Ibrahim, said the strike reflects long-standing grievances, including unpaid salary arrears and exclusion from previous wage adjustments.

    He noted that some members are still owed arrears dating back to 2022, including one full year and additional months, describing the situation as unacceptable.

    “The university system stands on three pillars: academic, professional, and administrative. Why should one segment be sidelined?” he asked.

    The unions also warned that the strike, which began at midnight on May 1, 2026, is total and indefinite, affecting all federal and state universities as well as inter-university centres nationwide.

    They added that services across campuses have been withdrawn, disrupting transportation, administration, and general academic support activities.

    Despite ongoing talks between union leaders and government representatives, the unions maintain that only a formal agreement addressing their demands will lead to suspension of the industrial action.