Punch Times News

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has ordered a formal investigation into the alleged assault and attempted murder involving the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abeokuta, Ogun State. The move has been hailed as a rare show of responsibility from the IGP since assuming office. The Elegant Nurses Forum (ENF) revealed this in a statement, expressing appreciation for the IGP's prompt action. "This is the first time some of us have witnessed such action from the IGP," said Nurse Thomas Abiodun Olamide, a representative of ENF. According to reports, the Head of Nursing Services (HNS), allegedly connected to the case, faced obstruction during police questioning. The Chief Security Officer (CSO) and certain elements of FMC management reportedly resisted the police invitation, insisting that all correspondence must go through the CSO's office in adherence to Public Service Rules (PSR). ENF described this as deeply troubl...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Nyesom Wike-backed National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) has hailed a landmark Federal High Court ruling affirming its legitimacy as the party’s rightful leadership, amidst a protracted internal crisis. In a statement, the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led PDP Caretaker Committee appealed for calm and urged all party members to rally behind the court's decision, emphasizing the importance of unity, reconciliation, and strict adherence to the party's constitution and due process. The court's ruling, delivered by Justice Uche Agomoh, nullified the PDP National Convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15, 2025, and barred Kabiru Turaki (SAN) and others from posing as national officers of the PDP. The judge affirmed that the Caretaker Committee, led by Abdulrahman Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu, remains the only recognised National Working Committee of the PDP until a valid National Convention is conducted, dealing a s...

By Kehinde Odinde  The Ogun State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (OGSEMSAS) has rescued 1,191 victims in 2025, with 451 of those cases being road traffic accidents. This impressive feat was shared by the Director of OGSEMSAS, Dr. Hassan Adelakun, during a visit to Splash FM Radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he emphasized the importance of emergency preparedness and urged citizens to utilize OGSEMSAS' services, especially during crises. Dr. Adelakun also highlighted the organization's acquisition of 20 new ambulances, in addition to the six inherited, to bolster their fleet and enhance response times. The OGSEMSAS team showcased their expertise, including modern equipment like Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and encouraged citizens to dial the emergency contact number, 0811 200 0033, in times of need. This initiative is part of OGSEMSAS' efforts to promote emergency preparedness and provide top-notch services to the people of Ogun State....

By Adesakin Adefemi  The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), North-East Zone, has raised an alarm over the acute shortage of potable water in some tertiary institutions across Gombe State, describing the situation as a serious threat to students' health and academic activities. The affected institutions include several universities and colleges, where students are struggling to access clean water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. According to the Zonal Coordinator of NANS North-East, Muazu Hina, students in the affected institutions are "currently grappling with an alarming shortage of potable water," a situation he deems "unacceptable and dangerous". Hina stated that the water crisis has led to a surge in water-borne diseases, with many students reporting cases of cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. The crisis is further exacerbated by an ongoing cankerworm infestation, which has disrupted water sources and sanitation facilities, exposing s...

By Kehinde Odinde  The Ogun State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (OGSEMSAS), under the Ministry of Health, Ogun State, responded to an accident on January 26, 2026, on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway long bridge, causing a slowdown. The accident occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m., just as commuters were heading to work and involved multiple vehicles, including a bus, a truck, and several cars. The prompt arrival of the OGSEMSAS ambulance ensured timely medical attention to those injured, and the team worked tirelessly to stabilize the patients and transport them to nearby hospitals for further treatment. The accident victims, including a pregnant woman and several children, were treated for minor injuries and are currently receiving medical attention. According to eyewitnesses, the accident occurred during peak hour, and the quick response of the ambulance team averted a potential disaster. "I was on my way to work when I saw the accident. The ambulance arrived withi...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, son of Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has resigned as Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development. In a statement, Kwankwaso expressed gratitude to Governor Abba Yusuf for the opportunity to serve, citing valuable experiences and lessons gained while serving the people of Kano State. The resignation comes as Governor Yusuf prepares to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC), following his exit from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Kwankwaso's resignation is seen as part of the ongoing political realignments within the Kano State Government. In his statement, Kwankwaso thanked Governor Yusuf for the confidence reposed in him and prayed for the youth and sports sectors to continue receiving adequate attention. He also wished the government and people of Kano State well. Governor Yusuf's defection to APC is expected to strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government, accelerate development, enhance security, and impr...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Sunday Igboho, the Yoruba nation activist, has been cleared to return to Nigeria after prominent monarchs intervened and persuaded President Bola Tinubu to remove his name from the list of wanted persons. His spokesman, Olayomi Koiki, announced that all arrangements have been made for his principal's return. The traditional rulers who intervened include the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Alao. Igboho had been in exile since July 2021, when he fled Nigeria following a raid on his Ibadan residence by security agents. Koiki expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the South-West monarchs, and Yoruba sons and daughters worldwide for their support throughout Igboho's ordeal. He stated that Igboho is now free to return home and will be fully reintegrated after his clearance has been granted. The announcement follows a visit by the Olubadan to President Tinubu at Aso Ro...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has ordered the shutdown of Onitsha Main Market for one week due to the ongoing economic sabotage disguised as "Monday sit-at-home." This decision applies to any market in Anambra that observes the Monday sit-at-home, effective immediately. Governor Soludo emphasized that this action was taken to protect the state's economic interests and the livelihoods of its people. He urged traders and market stakeholders to ignore calls for the sit-at-home and resume business as usual, stressing that no individual or group has the right to disrupt the lives and livelihoods of Anambra residents Soludo warned that his government would not tolerate any further economic sabotage and would take necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of lives and property in the state. He called on residents to continue their normal business activities without fear, assuring them that the government is committed to protecting the eco...

  By Adesakin Adefemi  Residents of Ilu-Abo in Akure North Local Government of Ondo state took to the streets, blocking a major highway in protest against rising insecurity and frequent abductions in the area. The peaceful demonstration, which halted vehicular movement on the Airport-Owo expressway for hours, was triggered by a Sunday night attack where gunmen reportedly kidnapped a woman and injured three others with gunfire. The protesters, comprising mainly youths, women, and community leaders, demanded immediate action from the government to address the security challenges facing the community. Eyewitnesses recounted how the assailants ambushed the victim at her home's entrance, firing shots that damaged her vehicle before dragging her away. Two neighbours who tried to intervene were shot, with one sustaining a head injury and the other a stomach injury, and were rushed to a nearby hospital. The incident has left the community in a state of panic, with many residents feari...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Oyo State government commenced activities marking its 50th anniversary on Monday, but the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, was noticeably absent from the opening ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, sparking renewed tensions with the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. The event featured a welcome address by Governor Seyi Makade and a goodwill message from the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Edward Ogundoyin, highlighting the state's progress and achievements over the past five decades. Oyo State was created on February 3, 1976, by the military government of the late General Murtala Mohammed, with Brigadier David Jemibewon appointed as the first military governor, marking a significant milestone in the state's history. The Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and other Oyo monarchs were in attendance, while the seat reserved for the Alaafin was vacant, draw...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Southwest Youth Parliament has taken a significant step to strengthen its relationship with traditional rulers in the region, fostering a new era of collaboration and cooperation under the leadership of Rt Hon. Temitope E. Joseph, Speaker of the Parliament. The parliament's speaker led a high-level delegation on a courtesy call to the Palace of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III. The visit was a milestone in the parliament's efforts to foster closer ties with traditional rulers, with a focus on promoting youth development, community engagement, and social cohesion in the Southwest region. During the visit, Rt Hon. Temitope E. Joseph highlighted the parliament's activities, including initiatives aimed at empowering young people, promoting education, and supporting entrepreneurship. He expressed appreciation for the royal father's initiatives and commitment to the development of the...

By Adesakin Adefemi  In a show of solidarity and commitment to community service, Joshua Olakunle Sebiotimo Esq., a prominent lawyer and aspiring candidate for Member House of Assembly Akoko South West 1, recently attended the burial ceremony of Madam Abigail Olorunobinu Atere (Nee Oki) in Owalagba Quarters, Agba Oka-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government. "As I pay my respect to to the departed matriarch, I reaffirm my commitment to serving this community and working tirelessly to improve the lives of our people," Sebiotimo Esq. said. The ceremony was a solemn occasion that brought together families, friends, and well-wishers to pay their last respect to the departed matriarch. Sebiotimo Esq. was among the dignitaries who graced the occasion, showing his respect to the bereaved family and reaffirming his commitment to serving the community. Following the burial ceremony, Sebiotimo Esq. had a meeting with the elders of the community in Ebo Quarters, Iwaro Oka, Akoko South W...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Kwara State PDP Youth Leader, Odunjo Adio, has condemned the indefinite shutdown of schools in Kwara South senatorial district, attributing it to the government's failure to address pressing issues in the region. In a statement, Odunjo described the closure of the School of Nursing, Oke-Ode, all primary and secondary schools, and the College of Education, Oro, as a "disaster in the making". He emphasized that education is a fundamental right and that the government's inaction is a dereliction of duty. "The future of a whole generation is being deliberately sacrificed, and it's unacceptable," Odunjo said, calling on the government to take immediate action to reopen schools and restore normalcy to the communities. The shutdown has left thousands of students without access to learning, exposing them to frustration, poverty, and crime. Odunjo noted that while other parts of Kwara State and Nigeria continue academic activities, Kwara ...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Benue State Axis has issued a strong statement denying endorsement of Hon David Olofu for Senator Benue South, describing a publication claiming such endorsement as "false and misleading". Comrade Anyebe Dominic, Stakeholders Chairman of NANS BENUE STATE Axis, stated that the organization has not endorsed any individual for any political position, including the forthcoming general elections, and is still consulting with stakeholders. The statement emphasizes that NANS Benue State is a united organization, operating under Comrade Dominic's leadership, and will not endorse any individual without proper consultation and consensus. The organization is committed to maintaining staff discipline and ensuring that it speaks with one voice. The DSS, Nigeria Police Benue State Command, and other stakeholders have been alerted, and action is expected to be taken against the imposter. The statement warns that t...

By Adesakin Adefemi   The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced a breakthrough in negotiations with the management of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, over concerns regarding hostel accommodation fees. In a statement issued on January 21, 2026, by Comrade Anzaku Shedrack Ovye, CNS Secretary-General of NANS National, the association revealed that the management has agreed to suspend compulsory payment of hostel accommodation fees, effective immediately. The proposed hostel fee increment has been reduced by ₦5,000, from ₦10,000 to ₦5,000, in consideration of the prevailing economic realities facing Nigerian students and their families. This decision is expected to bring relief to students who were concerned about the sudden hike. Students who have already paid for certificate clearance receipt at the rate of ₦10,000 will not be required to make any additional payment, while new applicants will pay ₦15,000. The association has assured students that the mana...

By Adesakin Adefemi A controversy is brewing at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abeokuta, Ogun State, following allegations of violent assault leveled against the Head of Nursing Services, Fagoyinbo Abosede, by a senior nurse, Odusola Oluwakemi. The incident has sparked heated discussions within the nursing community and the wider public, with many calling for a thorough investigation and justice for the victim. Odusola, who was present at a meeting where the alleged assault took place, has called for a thorough investigation to clear her name and that of the hospital, dismissing the allegations as a "deliberate attempt at blackmail". She maintains that she did not engage in any behaviour that would warrant such a reaction and is seeking support from her colleagues and the public to get justice.   However, the Elegant Nurses Forum (ENF) has petitioned the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, demanding Fagoyinbo's arrest and prosecution for alleged assault and attempted mu...

By Adesakin Adefemi In a profound statement released earlier today, Wednesday, January 21, 2026, former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adejoro Adeogun, underscored the importance of prioritizing service to the people over personal ambition in politics. In his official Facebook post, Hon. Adeogun lamented the current state of politics, noting that it often deviates from the principles of fair play and sportsmanship that are characteristic of other competitive arenas. He emphasized that this deviation has led to a loss of trust and faith in the political system, and it's time for a change. The former lawmaker's statement comes as a breath of fresh air in a country where politics is often characterized by cut-throat competition and personal attacks. Hon. Adeogun questioned the cost of winning a political contest at the expense of one's personal virtues and reputation, asking, "What's the benefit of a victory that still looks like a defeat considering col...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Ogun State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against armed robbery, arresting eight suspected members of a violent gang responsible for attacks and hijackings along the Papalanto-Ilaro and Owode-Idiroko axis. According to DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, Police Public Relations Officer, the operation was intelligence-led, with detectives deploying covert surveillance and crime pattern analysis to identify and penetrate the syndicate. The police worked tirelessly to gather evidence and track down the suspects, ultimately leading to their arrest. The suspects, identified as Mogaji Sodiq, Adebowale Lekan, Ajah Peter, Ganiyu Razaq, Odeleye Ayoola, Egboja Amos, Bello Akeem, and Olaifa Sunday, were apprehended at different locations across the state. The police recovered a hijacked trailer truck, 900 bags of cement, and a locally made single-barrel pistol during the operation, and investigations revealed that the syndicate had carried out pr...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Abuja, Nigeria - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given the green light for commercial oil drilling operations at Tongeji Island in Ogun State, marking a significant milestone in the country's energy sector. This strategic move is expected to unlock the vast economic potential of the region, create new job opportunities, and stimulate local entrepreneurship. Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun praised the President's approval, citing it as a testament to Ogun State's potential and the government's commitment to unlocking economic growth in coastal communities. "This approval is a game-changer for Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole," he said. "We are poised to leverage this opportunity to drive economic development, improve the lives of our people, and contribute to the nation's economic growth." The approval also includes the go-ahead for the Olokola Deep Seaport project, now known as the Blue Marine Economic Zone, expected to transfo...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Billionaire businessman Dr. Deji Adeleke has firmly dismissed renewed paternity allegations against his son, Afrobeats star Davido, stating that multiple DNA tests have conclusively proven the singer is not the biological father of 12-year-old Anuoluwapo. Speaking at a press conference, Dr. Adeleke revealed that five DNA tests were conducted between 2015 and 2020, all yielding a 0.00% probability of paternity. He accused investigative journalist Kemi Olunloyo of fueling the controversy by impersonating Anu and her mother online, despite the existence of DNA evidence. "The grandmother broke down and cried. I told her mistakes could happen and suggested we do two more DNA tests at other reputable centers," Dr. Adeleke said, emphasizing that the family has nothing to gain from denying a child. The controversy resurfaced after Anu's Instagram account appealed for a fresh DNA test, citing bullying and emotional distress. Davido has maintained that he has n...