A 68-year-old man has reportedly fallen into a deep well, on Sunday while trying to recover his lost mobile phone at Mobolorunduro mosque, Molefalafia, Oke-Ado in the Ibadan South-West Local Government Area of Oyo  State.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday.

A resident, Ajadi Olaleye, who spoke with The PUNCH in Ibadan, the state capital, said, “The fire fighters were able to rescue him alive and subsequently handed him over to his family for proper medicare.”

When contacted, the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde of the state on Fire Service Reform, Adebayo Akiinwande, confirmed the incident in a statement.

He said the agency was intimated of the incident through a phone call that an elderly man has been trapped inside a well at the premises of Mosque located at Molefalafia in Oke-Ado, Ibadan.

“The distressed call was reported at exactly 06:10hrs this morning, Sunday June 8, 2025 through telephone call of someone that fell into a well at Mobolorunduro Mosque, No.30 Ajeigbe Street, Molefalafia, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.

“The fire personnel led by ACFS Adedeji promptly deployed to the scene of the incident. On getting there, it was discovered to be a man of about 68 years of age trapped inside a deep well of Mobolorunduro Mosque while he was solely trying to recover his lost phone in the well. 

“The firemen swiftly swung into action by tying all necessary knots and observing precautionary measures. The man was rescued alive and handed over to his family for proper care.

“The cause of the incident was as a result of ignorance, not knowing the danger associated with entering a well without properly trained.”

Akiinwande, therefore, advised the public to desert from any activity that could pose danger into their valuable lives.

He also reiterated the effort of the present administration in securing the lives and property of entire citizens of the state.

Every year, the town of Ijebu Ode in Ogun State comes alive with colour, culture, music, and heritage as it hosts the Ojude Oba Festival — a century-old celebration that unites the Ijebu people and beyond.

Slated for the third day after Eid al-Kabir (Ileya), this year’s edition, Ojude Oba 2025, promises another vibrant spectacle filled with history, fashion, faith, and fanfare.

Here are 10 things to know about this iconic Yoruba festival.

1. Ojude Oba Is Held in Honour of the King

Ojude Oba literally means “The King’s Forecourt.” The festival is a grand homage paid to the Awujale of Ijebuland, the traditional ruler of Ijebu Ode. It gathers age-grade groups (regberegbe), dignitaries, entertainers, and locals who converge at the palace to show loyalty, appreciation, and solidarity with the monarch.

2. It Holds on the Third Day After Eid al-Kabir

Ojude Oba is tied closely to the Muslim calendar. It is held annually on the third day after Eid al-Adha (Ileya), a major Islamic celebration. This year, 2025, will follow the same pattern — depending on the sighting of the moon.

3. It Has Over 100 Years of History

The origins of Ojude Oba date back more than a century. One account traces it to Balogun Kuku, a wealthy Muslim convert, who rallied his household to pay homage to the king after the Eid prayers. Another version credits Imam Tunwatoba, who led his companions to thank Oba Fidipote for allowing peaceful Islamic practice in Ijebuland.

4. It Draws a Global Crowd

Though deeply rooted in Yoruba and Ijebu tradition, the festival is now a global affair. Up to a million people, including Nigerians in the diaspora, attend the event annually. Attendees come from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and beyond, making it a unifying spectacle.

5. It Features Cultural Age Groups (Regberegbe)

One of the festival’s highlights is the parade of regberegbe — cultural age-grade groups. These groups are known for their dazzling display of fashion, dance, pageantry, and loyalty to the king. The friendly competition among these groups is one of the most anticipated elements of the festival.

6. Fashion Takes Centre Stage

Ojude Oba has become a fashion runway of tradition. The Yoruba people, especially the Ijebu, treat clothing as a mark of status and identity. Each regberegbe appears in new, elaborate outfits every year, often designed months in advance. Rich fabrics like sanyan, indigo-dyed cotton, and deep reds and yellows dominate the scene.

7. It Reflects Religious Tolerance

Despite its Muslim origins, Ojude Oba is a symbol of religious harmony. Christians, traditional worshippers, and even tourists join in the celebration. The spiritual heart of the festival is about gratitude, prayer, and peace — offered for the king, his subjects, and the land.

8. It Has Military and Historical Displays

The event also features cultural warriors, including descendants of ancient warlords and traditional soldiers who march with swords and perform gun salutes. This military symbolism harks back to Ijebu’s precolonial martial heritage, reinforcing the festival’s cultural depth.

9. It Boosts Local Economy and Tourism

Ojude Oba significantly contributes to the Ijebu Ode economy. Hotels get fully booked, artisans and traders enjoy increased patronage, and local businesses thrive. Corporate sponsors also use the festival as a platform for brand visibility and community engagement.

10. It Is Supported by the Awujale and Sponsors

The festival is jointly organized and funded by the Awujale of Ijebuland, the Ijebu people, corporate brands, and notable personalities. Each year, leading companies and individuals sponsor regberegbe groups and entertainment, helping sustain and expand the event’s reach.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers has said that a shift to computer-based examinations by West African Examinations Council and the National Examinations Council will not eliminate malpractices.

The NUT National President, Audu Amba, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja.

Amba was reacting to the recent directive by the Federal Government that WAEC and NECO should fully transit to Computer-Based Testing for their examinations by 2026.

NAN reports that by the directive, both multiple-choice and essay papers by the two bodies would be administered via computer, starting with the May/June 2026 examination cycle.

Specifically, WAEC is expected to begin conducting objective exams via CBT starting in November 2025.

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, who announced the federal government’s decision, had said that switching to CBT for WAEC and NECO examinations would enhance efficiency and reduce malpractices.

Amba, however, said that the major challenge with the nation’s education system, which is encouraging malpractices, is the priority placed on paper qualifications.

According to him, because the society only recognises certificates and grades, the students will go the extra miles, some times, with the support of their parents to acquire them, even when they cannot be defended.

“We have placed more emphasis on certificate. What is your grade? What is your scores?

“Not minding the intellectual intelligence of that student.

“The students will go out of their ways to make sure that they get the marks that will give them the certificate,” he said

Amba also underscored the need to address the digital literacy gap among students and teachers before implementing such policy, adding that this may require additional training programmes and resources.

“We are talking about CBT exams. Where is the light, manpower and network? You see, we have a long way to go.

“How many of our teachers in our localities are even computer literate? We don’t sit down within the city and give a directive that cannot be implemented.

“In my village, for instance, network ceases. You can’t get it until you get to a particular place, and so it is in many of our villages.

‘There are also some of our students that have not seen a computer before not to talk of operating it,” he said

The NUT president reiterated that many things needed to be addressed first and and in time, before it could get to a level of CBT introduction.

According to him, there is need for relevant stakeholders to work together to improve the education sector for the betterment of the students and the nation.

The Federal Government has declared Thursday a public holiday to commemorate the 2025 Democracy Day celebration.

This is contained in a statement by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Magdalene Ajani, on Sunday in Abuja.

Ajani disclosed that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, while declaring the holiday on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated Nigerians for an uninterrupted 26 years of civil rule.
“June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured.

“The last 26 years tell the story of our resilience, strength, and courage, and a hope renewed than ever,” he said.

Tunji-Ojo reiterated the commitment of the Renewed Hope government of President Bola Tinubu to the universal value of democracy that is based on freely-expressed will of the people in determining Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural systems.

(NAN)

The Republic of Ireland spent €324,714, equivalent to about N577m, to hire a chartered flight for the deportation of 35 Nigerians to Lagos on Wednesday night, according to an Irish news outlet Raidió Teilifís Éireann.

RTÉ News reported that the flight, which took off from Dublin Airport, conveyed 21 Nigerian men, nine women, and five children.

According to the medium, Ireland’s Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, disclosed the cost of the chartered flight, explaining that it was carried out by An Garda Síochána, Department of Justice staff, and prison officers, who accompanied the deportees on the flight.

The minister said although the flight made an unscheduled stop due to a medical incident on board, all 35 returnees arrived in Nigeria on Thursday morning.

O’Callaghan added that this was the third time the country had used a chartered flight for deportees this year, and the operations underscored its strict enforcement of deportation rules.

According to him, the Nigerian deportees failed to comply with an earlier deportation order served to them.

“People need to know that if they are served with a deportation order, it has meaning, and the meaning is that you are not entitled to stay in Ireland.

“If it is the case that you’re not permitted to stay, whether you have overstayed your work visa or haven’t been granted asylum, there must be a consequence,” the minister was quoted as saying.

As of 1 pm on Saturday, the exchange rate stood at approximately N1,777.43 per €1. Therefore, €324,714 is equivalent to about N577m in Nigerian currency.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, through its spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said  there was no issue with the deportation and that the Irish government didn’t have to inform the commission before deporting any Nigerian.

“There is no big deal in that. They have been deporting Nigerians before now. So, the country doesn’t have to inform us when it is not NIDCOM that is bringing the people. They have been deporting people. Once you run afoul of the law of the land, they have the right to deport. So they don’t have to inform us,” Balogun said.

The Irish government recommenced chartered flights for deportations in February 2025, with a total of 106 people deported through this channel so far, according to Irish media.

The Irish Department of Justice said further charter operations will be carried out throughout the year, as 2,403 deportation orders were signed in 2024.

The Peoples Democratic Party is set to overhaul its South-South zonal and state structures in a sweeping move aimed at flushing out disloyal members and forestalling further defections.

A member of the PDP’s National Working Committee, who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, said the planned restructuring was part of renewed efforts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the source, the party is “clearly displeased” with the spate of defections in recent weeks and is ready to take firm action.

“This will not be business as usual. When the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and former governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, left, the NWC met and resolved to challenge their defection in court. That process is ongoing. As for Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who defected on Saturday, the party will act after the Sallah break,” the source said.

“These defections damage the party’s internal structure because most of these leaders have their loyalists occupying key positions at state and zonal levels. The party must now clean the house. We will overhaul the South-South leadership to ensure only committed members remain in charge. No more space for political opportunists who will jump ship at the slightest discomfort.”

The PDP has faced internal turbulence since the 2023 general elections.

With no clear resolution in sight, the party has continued to lose high-profile members to the ruling All Progressives Congress. 

On April 23, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, and other key party leaders dumped the party.

After months of behind-the-scenes talks with APC leaders, Governor Eno and several officials also formally defected last weekend.

The wave of defections has dealt a major blow to the party’s image and weakened its electoral base ahead of the 2027 polls.

Reacting to Eno’s defection, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, urged disloyal members planning to jump ship to do so quickly, so loyalists could focus on rebuilding the party.

“No political party, whether big or small, will be happy to lose assets, especially priced assets like a sitting governor from a critical state such as Akwa Ibom. So yes, the PDP received the news with mixed feelings,” Osadolor said.

“But at this stage in our national life, what Nigeria needs are sincere patriots committed to nation-building, not political merchants chasing personal gains. It is sad that the men we once looked up to as beacons of integrity have turned out to be nothing but overhyped figures, big men in oversized shoes and garments who cannot meet the basic standards of integrity.”

Osadolor criticised Eno, a cleric, for prioritising political survival over public welfare.

“The truth is, given his background, many had hoped his worldview on governance would be shaped by compassion, service, and truth. But it appears the welfare of Nigerians is not his concern. His focus, clearly, is securing a second term,” he said.

The PDP deputy national youth leader, however, expressed optimism that the defections would make it easier for Nigerians to reject the APC in 2027.

“In an interview earlier this year, I said those looking for transport fare to leave should hurry up. And if they need help, they can come to Wadata Plaza, we’ll be glad to escort them out. Let them go quickly so the party can heal and rebuild.

“It’s better they leave now than linger as saboteurs. Those of us who truly believe in this party are ready to reposition it. All hope is not lost.”

•Says LP in shreds, no direction
•Says he wants to support Tinubu ‘who is courageous and doing well for Nigeria’
•With defection of 2 Akwa Ibom PDP senators, APC now 71, PDP 28, LP 4, NNPP 1, SDP 2 and APGA 1

CHAIRMAN, Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, Senator Neda Imasuen, who represents Edo South Senatorial District, has concluded plans to dump his party, the Labour Party, LP, for the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. 

Imasueu, who disclosed this to Sunday Vanguard, said he would formally declare for the APC on Thursday, June 12 in Benin-City, Edo State capital, saying that he took the decision to decamp to the APC because the LP, in the true sense of it, has lost total direction, with no leadership that could be pointed at.

The senator noted that the party is in shreds, saying, “ As we speak today, the Labour Party, LP has lost direction, is a party that you cannot really say who is the Chairman of the party, the party has lost direction. I heard from some quarters that with the crisis in the Labour Party, it may be difficult for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to download the name of the candidate because of the issue of who is the authentic national Chairman of the party.

“Over the past months, it has become increasingly clear to me that the Labour Party as it currently stands, has become disconnected from the aspirations of the very Nigerians it seeks to lead. Internal divisions, lack of ideological clarity, and inability to provide a credible, forward-looking agenda have made it difficult for leaders like me to pursue the reform of the political party.”

According to him, he was leaving the party because of the courage of President Bola Tinubu who has courageously taken some steps and carried out policies that will help in the growth and development of the country, just as he said that the President must be supported in all its ramifications following his vision for the country and what he is doing on behalf of Nigeria, for Nigerians, for the youths.

Imasuen said that it became imperative for him to join the APC, to work with President Tinubu as part of his contribution to the development of the country, adding, “The APC offers a more viable platform through which i can develop my national interest. The APC is a platform through which I can effectively serve my constituents. Advocating for progressive policies, I help move Nigeria forward.”

He said, “I am also very happy that we have somebody like the President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is steering the ship of affairs today. I say so because of his courage. It takes courage to be able to do what he has done, and what he continues to do. He has brought about certain policies that I believe that, as a matter of time, will begin to yield dividends. He’s not afraid to take on those issues that many of his predecessors stayed away from, just because they are interested in elections. And for that, I salute him, and that is why I admire him because of that courage that he has to push the ship forward.”

With the movement of Imasuen, APC senators in the 10th National Assembly have increased to 69, strengthening the party’s majority in the upper chamber. 

Following the defection, the updated composition of the Senate now stands as follows: APC 69, PDP 30, Labour Party 4, NNPP 1, SDP 2 and APGA 1.

Also with the defection of Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the APC, two PDP senators from the state also followed him.

They are Senators Sampson Ekong, PDP, Akwa Ibom South and Etim Bassey Aniekan, PDP, Akwa Ibom North-East.

When they formally announce their movement to the APC at the hallowed chamber of the Senate, APC senators will be 71, PDP 28; LP 4; NNPP 1; SDP 2 and APGA 1.

It is a sad reality that Nigerians are getting frustrated by the day due to the harsh economic hardship making lives unbearable, and the widespread insecurity sending people to an early graves. 

As a result, many are desperate to leave the shores of the country for Europe and America, in search of greener pastures; an unfortunate migration conundrum known in local parlance as japa. However, there many who genuinely want leave for studies, businesses  or vacation.     

The frustrations are even more when the intending travellers are denied visas. 

It’s normal for the applicant at this stage to begin to wonder what sets apart successful applicants from those who get refused?

To assist visa applicants who are preparing for visa interviews, here are top 7 factors visa officers consider when assessing applications and interviewing applicants.

CLEAR PURPOSE OF TRAVEL

Having a clear purpose of travelling is Key to a successful visa application.

When applying for a visa, it’s essential to have a well-defined reason for travelling, supported by relevant documents. 

This could include, Admission letters for students, Job offer letters for employment, Travel itineraries for tourists, and so on.

A clear and concise explanation of your purpose for the trip  can make a significant difference in catching the attention of the visa officer.  

By providing  detailed and legitimate reasons for your travel, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application.

TIES TO HOME COUNTRY

Showcasing strong ties to your home country is  vital for visa approval.

When applying for a visa, it’s very important to demonstrate strong ties to your home country. 

This can be achieved by highlighting connections such as, – Family ties, Employment and Property ownership.

By declaring these strong connections, you can effectively show the visa officer that you intend returning to your home country after your intended stay. This increases the likelihood of your visa application being approved. 

FINANCIAL STABILITY 

Proof of financial capability is another thing visa officers look   for in making decisions on your visa application.

The officers want you to show them the proof that you can afford your stay without relying on their government or public funds. 

With documents like bank statements or sponsorship letters, visa applicants would be able to prove to the officers that they are capable of taking care of their stay financially in the country, if granted visa.

DOCUMENTATION AND ELIGIBILITY

Complete and accurate documentation are crucial and matter most in filling your visa application.

To ensure a smooth visa application process, it’s essential to provide complete and accurate documentation that meets the requirements for the type of visa you seek.  

This includes, a valid passport,  fully completed application, and additional evidence as specified by the visa requirements.

By submitting thorough and precise documentation, you have succeeded in strengthening your application, thereby avoiding potential delays or rejections.

 HONESTY AND CONSISTENCY 

When applying for a visa, honesty and consistency are crucial in building trust with the consulate. These are very important and apply to the information provided on your application forms, and your answers and or response during the visa interview (if applicable or required).

However, it’s essential to ensure that your responses align with information provided on your application. 

This will further demonstrate to the consular / visa officer that you are transparent and have integrity.  

 CONFIDENCE AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS

During a visa interview, confidence and clarity in your answers can make a significant difference.

Make a strong impression when being interviewed, by demonstrating preparedness and seriousness about your application.

By showcasing credibility and commitment, you set yourself apart from other applicants.

OVERSTAYING AND VIOLATING VISA TERMS 

Visa applicants must avoid red flags in their visa applications.

Any indication that you might overstay or engage in unauthorised activities, such as working on a tourist visa, can lead to visa denial.  

It’s crucial to comply with visa terms and avoid violations, as overstaying can pose significant risks.

In other words, adhering to the rules ensures a smoother experience and maintains your eligibility for future applications.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL VISA

Prepare ahead of your visa interview, understand your visa type and anticipate common possible questions visa officers may throw at you.

BRING ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Do not risk delays or denials due to missing paperwork. So, prepare and ensure all required documents are kept in one single file.

BE POLITE AND PROFESSIONAL

Displaying respect and professionalism during your visa interview, reflect positively on your character and show that you understand the importance of being a responsible visitor.  

The demeanor could assure the consulate that you will respect the laws and customs of your host country if granted visa.

It’s imperative that you visit the official website of the embassy or consulate of the country you are intending applying to for more insider tips and detailed guidelines.

Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Uche Ogah, has pledged his full support for the Renewed Hope Partners, assuring of his commitment to the reelection campaign of President Bola  Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ogah, who spoke in Umuahia on Saturday, told President Tinubu not to stress himself for re-election as victory would be delivered to him by the Renewed Hope Partners.

The former Minister stated this during his visit to the Abia  State Secretariat of the Renewed Hope Partners in Umuahia after meeting with the  Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu. 

“When we are united, everyone has a part to play. I can confidently tell you, the President can go to sleep,” Ogah stated.

Responding, Kalu expressed appreciation to Ogah’s visit and his decision to align fully with the Renewed Hope agenda.

He assured that President Tinubu will not take any support given to him for granted.