Amofin Beulah Adeoye, president of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, has joined members of the Oyo State House of Assembly and PDP family to celebrate the speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Debo Ogundoyin on the occasion of his 39th birthday anniversary.

Amofin Adeoye described Rt Hon. Ogundoyin who recently completed his term as Chairman, Conference of Speakers as a shining example of effective, peaceful and people-oriented leadership.

The legal icon acknowledged Rt Hon. Speaker’s dedication to legislative excellence, youth inclusion and advancement of development-driven policies that has earned him admiration of the good people of Oyo State.

Amofin Adeoye remarked that Rt Hon. Ogundoyin has continued to demonstrate that leadership is about service, sacrifice and courage to make decisions that promote peace, progress and unity.

The legal icon said Rt Hon. Ogundoyin’s relationship with the good people of Ibarapa, his calm disposition and openness to constructive engagement reflect a rare quality that is needed in today’s politics.

Amofin Adeoye prays that Almighty God continues to grant Mr Speaker, wisdom, strength and divine guidance as he leads the House and contributes to the success of the Makinde-led administration under Omi Tuntun 2.0.

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, president of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, has joined family, friends and well-wishers of Otunba Seye Famojuro to celebrate him on the occasion of his birthday.

Amofin Adeoye described the celebrant, Otunba Seye Famojuro as a dependable political ally of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde. The legal icon extolled Otunba Famojuro’s loyalty, dedication to service and consistent contributions to the growth and stability of the youth wing of the party.

Amofin Adeoye said Otunba Famojuro has distinguished himself as a man of courage, conviction and influence whose voice and efforts continue to strengthen the progressive cause and inspire confidence among the people.

Amofin Adeoye hailed Otunba Famojuro’s support for Governor Makinde Administration’s vision and programmes in Omi Tuntun 1.0 and Omi Tuntun 2.0 which reflects his belief in purposeful leadership, inclusive development, and people-centred governance.

Amofin Adeoye said beyond politics, he has remained a bridge-builder and a reliable pillar of encouragement and support for young and old around him.

“May Almighty God bless Otunba Famojuro abundantly in this new phase of life. May you enjoy sound health, divine wisdom, greater opportunities and renewed strength for the journey ahead”.

The political camp of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has been thrown into uncertainty following the release of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s final list of candidates for the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, which did not include the name of Adebayo Olugbenga Adedamola, popularly known as FRYO, who had emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2026 Osun governorship election.

INEC confirmed that both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) are absent from the list of political parties cleared to participate in the election.

In a statement issued on Sunday, INEC Public Affairs Officer in Osun State, Musa Olurode, speaking on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mutiu Agboke, disclosed that fourteen political parties successfully uploaded the names and required documents of their candidates within the stipulated timeframe.

According to the Commission, the submission followed the conclusion of party primaries and the closure of the designated portal for uploading candidates’ particulars.

The parties cleared to participate are: Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), All Progressives Congress (APC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

INEC stated that the list was released from its headquarters in Abuja after verification that all submissions met constitutional and regulatory requirements.

The publication was carried out in line with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Item 4 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Osun State Governorship Election.

The Commission further stated that copies of each candidate’s Form EC9, academic credentials, and other supporting documents will be displayed at its state office and all local government offices across Osun State for public inspection.

The documents will be available from Monday, 16 February 2026, at the state office, the 30 local government area offices, and the Area Office in Osun State.

“The Commission hereby notifies political parties and the general public that fourteen political parties have successfully complied with the requirements within the stipulated timeframe,” the statement noted.

INEC advised stakeholders to inspect the published documents as provided by law and clarified that only the listed parties are eligible to contest the election, having fulfilled the necessary conditions within the prescribed period.

Meanwhile, Dr. Agboke reassured stakeholders of the Commission’s commitment to transparency and professionalism, stating that it remains firmly committed to conducting credible elections in line with the law and democratic best practices.

The Ibadan North West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party on Friday, February 6, 2026, held its New Year celebration amid a display of unity, political solidarity, and renewed commitment to party ideals, with the event culminating in the formal declaration of Dr. Olayinka Gbolahan Ibikunle to contest in the 2027 general elections.

The gathering, held at Ebenezer Primary School, Ekotedo, in Ibadan, was convened alongside the chapter’s weekly meeting due to a busy political schedule. The New Year event has evolved into a prominent political tradition within PDP structures across Oyo State since the emergence of Seyi Makinde as governor.

In his opening remarks, the Ibadan North West PDP Chairman and Chief of Staff to the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Kazeem Fantola, praised party leaders and members for their steadfast loyalty and contributions to strengthening the party’s grassroots structure.

The event attracted several party stalwarts and government functionaries, including the Oyo State PDP Vice Chairman, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke; Executive Chairman of Ibadan North West Local Government, Alhaji Rahman Adepoju; Vice Chairman, Alhaji Ganiy Omotosho; Oyo PDP Ex-Officio, Alhaji Lukman Adesina; and Special Adviser for Ibadan NorthWest/SouthWest Federal Constituency, Alhaji Labule Ishola.

Also present were the Local Government Secretary, Hon. Sarah Sobowale; Assistant Secretary, Alhaja Bolanle Oladeji; and the Leader of the Legislative House representing Ward 9, Hon. Oluwagbemileke Gbadamosi Nelson O’leke, alongside councillors, political appointees, ward executives, and women and youth representatives from the 11 wards.

Other notable stakeholders in attendance included former House of Assembly member and ex-Community Relations aide to the governor, Hon. Josiah Olufemi; former lawmaker Hon. Akeem Obadara (2019–2023); as well as Alhaji Badmus, Alhaji Kunle Onifila, Baale Alaamu, Alhaji Asukuna, Hon. Olawiyola, Alhaji Jimoh, Hon. Akeem Ege, among others.

The highlight of the gathering was the formal announcement by Ibikunle, popularly known as “Kiniun Onibudo 2027”, declaring his intention to contest for a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly in the 2027 elections. His declaration drew enthusiastic applause from party faithful.

Addressing members, Ibikunle expressed appreciation to party leaders and stakeholders for their continued support, pledging loyalty to party unity and stability. He also lauded Governor Makinde’s leadership, describing him as the PDP leader in Oyo State and the South-West, while urging sustained backing for the administration.

He appealed to members to support his aspiration to represent Ibadan North West at the state legislature.
In their goodwill messages, party leaders including Alhaji Lukman Adesina, Alhaji Labule Ishola, Hon. Josiah Olufemi, Hon. Akeem Olatunji, Alhaji Ganiy Omotosho, Alhaji Rahman Adepoju, and Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke commended Ibikunle’s dedication and long-standing service to the party. They offered prayers for his success and encouraged broader grassroots mobilization ahead of the polls.

The event reached its peak with a unanimous public endorsement by party leaders and stakeholders, signalling consolidated support for Ibikunle’s candidacy as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 general elections.

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has promoted 14 High Chiefs and Baales in Oyoland to the status of crown-wearing Obas, stating that the elevation is a call to greater responsibility and collaboration with the government to secure their domains and bring about development.

The 14 elevated chiefs were presented with the crowns and instruments of office on Friday, in an event held at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo.

Presenting the instruments of office to the newly-elevated royal fathers, including the Alago-Oja of Ago Oja, Alajagba of Ajagba, Onimeleke of Imeleke, Alaaguo of Aguo, and Alapaara of Apaara, Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, said his administration remains committed to upholding and strengthening the state’s traditional institution.

The other promoted High Chiefs are: Alakeetan of Akeetan, Onigudugbu of Gudugbu, Oloodu of Ojongbodu, Onidode of Idode, Onasokun of Oyo, Elepe of Iseke, Babayaji of Oyo, Iba Samu of Oyo and Agbaakin of Oyo.
The governor declared that the elevation of the High Chiefs was borne out of the government’s commitment to promoting peace, sustaining the traditional institution and engendering development, urging the newly promoted royal fathers to see their elevation as a call to greater responsibility and service to their people and Oyo State.

He congratulated the newly-crowned traditional rulers, noting that their elevation was in recognition of their leadership and a reaffirmation that his administration continues to see the traditional institutions as relevant in governance, peacebuilding and community development.

The governor also charged the elevated Obas to lead with integrity, fairness and service to their people.
Barrister Lawal said: “It is with great honour and profound joy that I stand before you today at this historic coronation ceremony of our newly approved Crown-Wearing Obas in Oyo.

“This occasion marks yet another significant milestone in the preservation and strengthening of our cherished traditional institution.
“On behalf of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, I extend warm congratulations to our revered Kabiyesis who are being formally crowned today.

“His Excellency’s unwavering commitment to strengthening our traditional institutions, promoting peace, and accelerating sustainable development across Oyo State continues to inspire confidence and unity among our people.

“Your ascension to the esteemed status of Crown-Wearing Obas is not only a recognition of your leadership but also a reaffirmation of the enduring relevance of our traditional institutions in governance, peacebuilding, and community development.”

He added, “Your Royal Majesties, as you wear the beaded crowns today, you assume even greater responsibilities. We encourage you to continue to uphold the values of integrity, fairness, and service to your people. Let your reign be marked by peace, inclusiveness, and unwavering support for government programmes aimed at improving the welfare of our citizens.”

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon Ademola Ojo, stated that the event was historic and culturally significant, as it represented not just the coronation of royal fathers but a reaffirmation of Oyo’s rich heritage and enduring traditions.

He added that the Yoruba traditional institution, one of the oldest and most revered in Africa, remains central to governance, culture and unity.

The commissioner lauded Governor Makinde for approving the elevation and presentation of crowns and instruments of office to the 14 Obas, stressing that it symbolised unity, continuity and renewal in Oyoland.

He equally noted that the government would continue to demonstrate commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional rulers for conflict resolution, cultural preservation and community mobilisation.

Present at the event were the Olubadan of Ibadanland, represented by the Asipa Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; former Speaker of the Oyo State Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; House of Assembly members, commissioners, as well as other top government functionaries and political leaders in the state.

A former Chief of Staff to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Chief Luqman Oyebisi Ilaka, has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a resignation letter dated February 10, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of the PDP, Ward 5, Oyo East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Ilaka formally announced his decision to leave the party.

Ilaka expressed his appreciation to the party for the opportunities it provided him during his time as a member.

“It is with the utmost humility that I tender the resignation of membership from the Peoples Democratic Party.”

“I am eternally grateful for the opportunities afforded to me by the party and the unalloyed support given to me over the years. Till we meet again” he wrote.

Ilaka was dismissed as the Chief of Staff in June, 2021 alongside seventeen commissioners when Makinde made a move to reshuffle his cabinet.

As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued regarding his next political move.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF OYO STATE ON THE URGENT NEED FOR A MANDATORY REAL ESTATE LICENSING LAW

Your Excellency,
The Government of Oyo State,
And the Good People of Our Dear State,

As Oyo State moves beyond the celebration of its Golden Jubilee and begins to shape the foundations of the next fifty years, we must confront the structural weaknesses that quietly undermine our growth, our security, and our economic potential.

One such critical sector is real estate.

Oyo State — historically the political and cultural stronghold of the Yoruba people — has grown into one of Nigeria’s most strategic and expanding subnational economies. Ibadan remains one of the largest indigenous cities in Africa. Our growth corridors in Ogbomoso, Oyo, Iseyin, Saki, Ibarapa, and across the state continue to expand. Land values are rising. Diaspora interest is increasing. Development is accelerating.

Yet, despite this growth, the real estate sector remains largely unregulated.

Today, anyone can operate as a “real estate agent” or “developer” without formal education, licensing, certification, or accountability. The consequences are visible and damaging:
• Rampant forgery of property documentation
• Multiple sales of the same property
• Land grabbing and violent disputes
• Client extortion and unethical commission practices
• Endless litigation in our courts
• Loss of investor confidence

These issues do not merely affect individuals — they damage the economic credibility of Oyo State.

If we are serious about building a sustainable and investor-ready state, we must professionalize and regulate this sector.

A Call for a Mandatory Real Estate Licensing Law

I respectfully propose that Oyo State enact a Mandatory Real Estate Licensing Law, supported by the establishment of a statutory Oyo State Real Estate Regulatory Authority.

Under this framework:
• Only licensed agents, brokers, and developers would be permitted to operate within the State.
• Practitioners would undergo approved training and pass a competency examination.
• A publicly accessible digital registry of licensed professionals would be created.
• Annual renewals would ensure ongoing compliance and ethical standards.
• Clear penalties would apply to unlicensed or fraudulent operators.
• A consumer protection and dispute resolution mechanism would safeguard citizens.

This reform is not about restriction — it is about protection, professionalism, and progress.

Why This Matters

1. Protection of Citizens

Families investing their life savings in land or housing deserve assurance that they are dealing with verified professionals.

2. Investor Confidence

Institutional investors, diaspora Nigerians, and development partners require regulatory certainty before committing capital.

3. Increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)

Through licensing fees, renewals, and compliance enforcement, the State can generate substantial sustainable revenue — without imposing new taxes on ordinary citizens.

4. Urban Planning & Data Management

A centralized registry improves land administration, planning coordination, and policy decision-making.

5. Positioning Oyo as a National Model

Oyo State has historically led in education and governance innovation. We can once again set the benchmark for other states in Nigeria.

Addressing Concerns

Reform always faces resistance. Unlicensed operators may object. Implementation may require institutional strengthening. However, these challenges can be addressed through:
• A reasonable transition period for compliance
• Public awareness campaigns
• Transparent digital systems
• Independent audits and citizen oversight

The long-term gains far outweigh the short-term adjustments.

The Oyo We Must Build

Our forebears built empires founded on structure, accountability, and organized systems of governance. The Old Oyo Empire thrived because it was regulated, coordinated, and institutionally strong.

As we enter the next chapter of our State’s history, we must build institutions that match our ambitions.

Real estate is not merely about land and buildings. It is about security, wealth creation, urban development, and generational stability.

Oyo State cannot afford to leave such a critical sector unregulated.

I therefore respectfully call on:
• The Executive Arm of Government
• The Oyo State House of Assembly
• Professional bodies
• Civil society organizations
• And all stakeholders

to prioritize the development and passage of a Mandatory Real Estate Licensing Law for Oyo State.

Let us protect our people.
Let us strengthen our institutions.
Let us build an Oyo State that inspires confidence, integrity, and sustainable prosperity.

The next fifty years begin now.

Respectfully,

Oloye Olajuwon Subair Adelokun
Anlugbua
Mogaji Ile Nla

Speculations surrounding an alleged meeting between Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, have continued to stir controversy across political circles and on social media.

Reports had emerged online claiming that Governor Makinde travelled to Niger State for a strategic political meeting with the two prominent northern political figures, fueling insinuations about possible alignments ahead of future political developments.

However, a source close to the governor has dismissed the claims, describing the alleged meeting as a mere coincidence rather than a pre-arranged political engagement.

Speaking with OYOMIND News, the source clarified that Governor Makinde’s visit was not political in nature, stressing that the governor only went to see General Babangida on a personal note.

According to the source, “There was no premeditated political meeting. What is being circulated online is largely speculative. Any interaction that may have occurred was coincidental and not part of any political arrangement.”

The clarification comes amid heightened political conversations across the country, where movements of key political actors are often interpreted through the prism of emerging alliances and permutations.

The source further noted that Governor Makinde, like other public office holders, is entitled to private engagements and routine interactions, which should not automatically be construed as political strategy sessions.

Since the reports surfaced, reactions have been mixed, with some commentators suggesting the alleged meeting could signal broader political realignments, while others have cautioned against drawing conclusions without verifiable evidence.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Oyo State Government regarding the matter. Nonetheless, insiders maintain that the narrative of a strategic political meeting is unfounded and exaggerated.