All posts by : Iconic News Team

The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has ordered all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to down tools from Monday, June 1, 2026. The strike is indefinite until further notice

This directive came from the national leadership of the union in Abuja which stated that the action is to protest the continued captivity of teachers and students kidnapped in different attacks across the state. Many of the victims were taken from their schools weeks ago, but their rescue and safe release are still pending.

The statement further stated that the long delay has created fear and anxiety among teachers. Most educators now feel unsafe going to class. As a result, many parents have stopped sending their children and wards to school.

The union also added that tension is rising in communities where the kidnappings happened. Schools are empty, learning has stopped, and the entire education system in the state is under pressure.

NUT warned that all public schools will remain closed until the Oyo State Government and security agencies secure the immediate release of every kidnapped teacher and student.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has “stabilised and is moving forward again” as his administration marks three years in office on May 29, 2026.

President Tinuubu disclosed that difficult reforms have been undertaken since 2023 like the removal of petrol subsidy, unification of exchange rates, and fiscal restructuring which were necessary to prevent fiscal collapse. He noted the subsidy regime alone consumed ₦18.4 billion daily, over ₦4 trillion in 2022, while forex distortions cost the nation more than ₦8 trillion in three years.

He also highlighted visible progress across the economy. The stock market’s All Share Index rose from 53,000 with ₦30 trillion capitalisation in 2023 to 250,000 and ₦160 trillion in 2026. Over 2,700km of highways and major roads are under construction, including Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway. The $5 billion NLNG Train 7 is nearing completion, local refining capacity has improved, and the power sector is receiving fresh investment to clear debts and expand the grid.

On social interventions,the President said the Nigerian Education Loan Fund has supported 1.5 million students with ₦282 billion, the Renewed Hope Housing Programme is delivering 10,000+ units across 14 states and FCT, and agricultural support is reaching millions of farmers. He also added that security operations have made many highways and communities safer, while telecoms and digital infrastructure investments are widening access and creating jobs for youth.

“History tests nations before it elevates them. Nigeria is passing through such a test,” he stated, urging Nigerians to reject cynicism and division, maintain faith in the country, and work together for a secure, prosperous, and inclusive nation.

The Edo State Government wishes to address some misleading social media narratives about today’s Children’s Day incident at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. We hereby reject the sensational interpretations, spins, twists, and misinformation that were dubiously orchestrated to give the government a bad name.

The stadium was filled to capacity with thousands of excited children who came to participate in the day’s activities. The turn out was unprecedented. All the entrances into the facility were opened for children to access the stadium. Some excited children resorted to unruly behaviour at one of the gates, an incident that led to some kind of stampede which necessitated one of the bouncers to deploy the use of tear gas to disperse them. In the cause of the pandemonium that ensued, few students sustained injuries.

The Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Dennis Idahosa who was physically present at the stadium, rose to the challenge immediately assisting children with first aids; and those requiring further care were taken to the Edo Specialist Hospital where they received appropriate medical attention and are now safely back home with their families.

The Edo State government has already authorised investigations into the incident while the bouncer involved is presently being interrogated by the Police to ascertain the immediate or remote cause of the incident. The government wishes to restate its commitment to the safety and security of all including our children. We however call on social media users to refrain from unverified narratives that could cause unnecessary panic.

Isolated incidents at large gatherings, while regrettable, do not diminish Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to child safety and wellbeing. The Governor’s unparalleled investment in education is the reason for the huge attendance by students of different schools in the state to celebrate Children’s Day.

We thank the security personnel, medical staff, and volunteers for their swift response and
dedication.to duty. Their immediate response helped to douse the tension.

Signed:
Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State
Wednesday 27 May 2026

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid ul Adha celebration across Nigeria.

The announcement was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior Dr Magdalene Ajani
on Monday, May 25, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

According to the statement, the declaration reflects the government’s respect for the religious beliefs and spiritual traditions of Nigerian Muslims, who join others worldwide in observing the festival.

Eid ul Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. It is one of the most significant celebrations in Islam, marked by prayers, family gatherings, charity, and the sacrifice of rams. The holiday typically follows Arafah Day, which was projected for May 26, 2026.

In the statement, the Minister conveyed the Federal Government’s felicitations to Muslim faithful in Nigeria and the diaspora, wishing them a peaceful and fulfilling celebration. He noted that Eid ul Adha embodies values of sacrifice, obedience to God, and compassion for fellow humans.

The government urged Nigerians to use the festive period for prayers and sober reflection, calling for divine guidance as the country works to strengthen peace, security, and economic prosperity. It also encouraged citizens to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that the celebration should serve as a reminder of shared humanity and national brotherhood.

With the holidays falling midweek, many Nigerians are expected to use the time for family gatherings, prayers at Eid grounds, and visits to loved ones across the country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has secured a decisive victory in the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential primary in Edo State, polling 131,096 votes across the state’s 18 local government areas.

The result was declared by the Edo State Governor ,Senator Monday Okpebholo who served as Returning Officer for the exercise,

He described the process as peaceful and well-coordinated noting that the exercise was conducted simultaneously nationwide, including in the Federal Capital Territory.

Collation officers from the 18 local government areas across the 192 wards presented the results at the APC state secretariat on Ikpokpan Road, GRA, Benin City.

In Edo South senatorial district, Tinubu polled 9,177 votes in Oredo LGA, 13,147 in Ikpoba-Okha, 10,074 in Egor, 6,858 in Orhionmwon, 10,044 in Ovia South-West, 7,983 in Ovia North-East, and 6,159 in Uhunmwonde.

In Edo North, he recorded 4,564 votes in Etsako Central, 7,123 in Etsako East, 5,492 in Owan East, 4,139 in Owan West, 7,464 in Akoko-Edo, and 11,497 in Etsako West.

In Edo Central, Tinubu secured 5,441 votes in Esan South-East, 4,111 in Esan North-East, 5,467 in Igueben, 6,820 in Esan West, and 5,536 in Esan Central. His challenger scored zero votes in all local government areas except Ovia North-East, where he polled one vote.

The exercise marks another step in the APC’s nationwide primary process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Prof. Segun Aina as Registrar and Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB.

The appointment is with immediate effect, according to a statement issued Tuesday by the Presidency through Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Prof. Aina succeeds Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, whose tenure has ended.

President Tinubu directed the new registrar to consolidate ongoing reforms and uphold the credibility and transparency of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.

The government said the appointment reflects its commitment to merit and efficiency in the education sector.

Today 16th May 2026, the people of Orhionmwon and Uhunmwode Local Government Areas, my people, my benefactors and the geographical expression that made me whom I am today politically, spoke in unison in their usual tradition of respecting the tradition of rotating representation at the Federal House of Representatives without distortion.

This they did through the All Progressives Congress primaries in which Hon Chief(Dr) Billy Famous Adesuwa Osawaru emerged as candidate for the 2027 general elections

My appreciation goes to the APC leadership in the Constituency and the State for recognizing not just the need for the candidate to complete the second term in office on behalf of Uhunmwode local Government Area but for respecting the tradition of rotation with one representative.

This tradition has a fairly long history. Our Senatorial Leader and former Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Dr Pius E Odubu did two terms on behalf of Orhionmwon Local Government between 1999 and 2007. Yours truly did two terms and even rose to become a principal officer in the house of Representatives from the Uhunmwode Local Government axis. In keeping with the same tradition Hon Patrick Asowieren completed his two terms in the same house of Representatives between 2007 and 2023 from Orhionmwon Local Government Area before the incumbent who now won the ticket today Hon Billy Osawaru took over from Uhunmwode Local Government Area.

This trajectory has its advantages on political stability and cooperation among the two local Government Areas. In this tradition, no one person has had his tenure cut short with a replacement by another person thereby underscoring the understanding of the people on the need to have experienced legislators who becomes ready made pool for state and national leadership. In this regard therefore, Orhionmwon and Uhunmwode Federal Constituency remains the only constituency in the state that has maintained this consistent power rotation which has now become an unbreakable convention from which others must copy.
I thank all our political leaders and party members and congratulate Hon Billy Osawaru for this victory.

However, mindful of the fact that this is just the first step towards consolidating on the gains of this consistent political arrangement, I urge him and every party member to close ranks for the success of the party at the general elections come next year. Indeed the task of winning the election must begin now. More importantly, the task of attracting development to the Constituency remains the primary objective of everyone particularly through our Representatives at all levels. We sure need to do much more to liberate our constituency form underdevelopment. It is a collective duty.

Once again, I thank the APC leaders and members in Orhionmwon and Uhunmwode Federal Constituency for their maturity and ingenuity in handling the process of the primaries that has produced an undisputed result.
Long Live Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency
Long Live Edo State
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, PhD
Legal Practitioner, Mediator & Notary Public
▪︎Member/Minority Whip, House of Representatives (2007-2015)
▪︎Attorney General & Commissioner For Justice, Edo State(2024-2025)

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on May 10 concluded the three-day funeral rites for his late mother, Madam Esther Imaguomwanruo Idahosa, with a Thanksgiving Service in Benin City.

The funeral programme began on May 8 with a Service of Songs and Night of Tributes hosted by the Idahosa and Enabulele families of Ovia South West LGA, with choirs and gospel artistes leading worship, and clergy taking sermons from John 14:1-3, urged the family to uphold the matriarch’s legacy of faith and community service.

In his tribute, Rt. Hon. Idahosa described his mother as a woman of unwavering faith and strength of character. “She lived with me for many years and remained a guiding influence in my life,” he said.

The interment was held on May 9 and was followed by a reception showcasing Edo cultural heritage. Traditional dance troupes and a live band entertained guests as local and continental dishes were served.

Dignitaries at the events included Governor Monday Okpebholo, former Governors Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly ,Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, political leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the clergy.

Speaking after the Thanksgiving Service, the Deputy Governor thanked all who stood with the family from the announcement of her passing through to the burial. He said the family found comfort in her impactful life and in the solidarity shown by the people of Edo State and beyond.

Madam Idahosa, nee Enabulele,died on April 8, 2026 at the age of 95.

A scandal erupted recently involving Tony Elumelu, chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA), when false rumors spread on social media claiming he had divorced his wife, Awele. UBA quickly debunked the claims as baseless and malicious, and three individuals have been arrested for spreading the false information.

The origins of the rumor are unclear, but UBA acted swiftly after filing a complaint, leading to the arrest of Kingsley Akunemeihe, Chigozie Success Ihebom, and John Surpruchi Nwanorue. The bank described the claims as “false, defamatory, and malicious,” and warned it would pursue all necessary legal action to protect Elumelu’s reputation.

The incident has sparked discussions about Nigeria’s defamation laws and social media’s impact on personal reputations. Some argue such cases should be civil matters, while others believe criminal charges are fitting given the damage caused by false information.

Tony Elumelu remains focused on his work, championing entrepreneurship and youth empowerment through his foundation. The case highlights the power of social media and the need to verify information before sharing it.

UBA’s swift response shows it takes such matters seriously, especially involving its leadership. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases in Nigeria.

The arrested individuals face legal consequences for their actions, serving as a reminder of the importance of accountability online.

Renowned grassroots leader, international businessman, philanthropist and proud son of Edo State, Imafidon Desmond Oni, has hailed the transformative leadership and remarkable milestones achieved by Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Osawaru, the member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Based in the United Kingdom, Mr. Oni lauded the lawmaker for his “unprecedented commitment” to the development of his constituency, noting that the tangible evidence of his “good works” has resonated far beyond the borders of Edo State.

Mr. Oni highlighted that Dr. Billy Osawaru’s tenure has been characterized by high-impact projects and people-oriented representation. He pointed to several key areas where the lawmaker has made significant strides including among others:

i. Infrastructure Development: The facilitation of road repairs and the provision of solar-powered streetlights in rural communities.

ii. Education and Empowerment: Consistent support for students through scholarships and the distribution of educational materials, alongside vocational training programs for women and youth.

iii. Constituent Welfare: Responsive leadership that prioritizes the direct needs of the Orhionmwon and Uhunmwode people at the National Assembly.

In light of these achievements, Mr. Oni is making a passionate plea to the constituents and stakeholders to support the return of Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Osawaru to the National Assembly. He emphasized that for the constituency to maintain its current momentum, experienced and proven leadership is required.

In his words: “Governance is about results, and Dr. Billy Osawaru has delivered. When you see the level of development he has attracted to Orhionmwon and Uhunmwode within this timeframe, it is only logical to sue for his return.”

“We cannot afford to experiment with our future when we have a representative who understands the corridors of power and uses that influence for the benefit of the common man.”

Mr. Oni concluded by urging the youth and elders of the constituency to remain steadfast in their support for the lawmaker, noting that the “evidence is on the ground for all to see.” He expressed total confidence that a return to the Green Chamber for Dr. Osawaru would mean even greater dividends of democracy for the region.