The Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo, has appointed 130 special assistants.

The announcement was made on Wednesday through a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, where Ihunwo stated that the appointments take immediate effect.

The appointees include Helen Nyekwere, Josephine Wogu, Daisy Worgu, Wagwu Hilda, Ogbonna Stella, Goodness Ogbonna, and Grace Amadi, among others.

“I have appointed the following persons as my Special Assistants,” Ihunwo stated. “I congratulate them and call on them to serve diligently in the interest of Obio-Akpor Local Government. Their appointments take immediate effect.”

This marks the second time Ihunwo has made such a significant number of appointments. In July 2024, during his tenure as the caretaker committee chairman of the LGA, he appointed 100 special assistants.

Ihunwo, a close ally of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, recently drew attention for removing the name of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, from the administrative block of the council secretariat.

The action is viewed as part of the ongoing political rivalry between Wike and Fubara, who have been locked in a power tussle in the state.

The chairman emphasized that the new appointees must prioritize service to the people, reiterating his commitment to the development of Obio-Akpor.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ilaji Sports and Resorts and a prominent figure in Oyo State politics, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, has officially announced his decision to withdraw from the 2027 gubernatorial race.

Sanusi made this known very recently during a meeting held with stakeholders of the Jubril Dotun Sanusi (JDS) Movement in Ibadan.

According to information obtained by Mega Icon Magazine a day ago via his Facebook page, ‘Asiwaju Jubril Dotun Sanusi,’ he expressed profound gratitude to his supporters, acknowledging their unwavering encouragement throughout his political journey.

However, he cited the challenges of opposition forces as a decisive factor in his withdrawal.

“If I were to vie for the gubernatorial seat, I believe I would win. However, I foresee significant opposition that would not benefit my followers. The challenges posed by adversaries far outweigh the support I would receive from friends,” Sanusi stated, reflecting on his decision.

Sanusi further clarified his non-partisan stance, stating, “I do not intend to seek membership in any political party. What I have in my hands now transcends politics.”

He emphasized his focus on business ventures, particularly his engagements in the oil and gas sector, including a major investment in Ghana’s oil industry.

Looking ahead, Sanusi revealed plans for the global expansion of his hospitality brand. He announced that by mid-year, the Ilaji Resort in Malta will be officially commissioned, marking a significant milestone for his business portfolio.

In his concluding remarks, Sanusi reaffirmed his commitment to serving humanity beyond the political sphere.

“Together, let us continue to dedicate ourselves to the service of humanity,” he urged.

The announcement has sparked diverse reactions among his supporters and political analysts, with many commending his focus on global business opportunities and philanthropy.

The immediate past Secretary of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Oyo State chapter, Hon. Jesutoye Oluyinka, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, on his 47th birthday.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Jesutoye, who also served as the council chairman of Ogo Oluwa Local Government, described Adelabu as a trailblazer whose visionary leadership and dedication to national development have brought pride to Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

Highlighting Adelabu’s impactful contributions to the nation’s financial and economic sectors, Jesutoye commended his remarkable efforts in revolutionizing tax administration and boosting revenue generation at the FIRS.

“As a dedicated public servant, Dr. Adelabu’s outstanding performance underscores his unwavering commitment to excellence and his passion for Nigeria’s progress,” the APC chieftain stated.

Jesutoye also prayed for Adelabu’s continued success, good health, and greater accomplishments in both his personal and professional pursuits.

“As you celebrate another year of impactful life, may you achieve even greater milestones for the nation,” he added.

He further called on young leaders to draw inspiration from Adelabu’s exemplary leadership and devotion to nation-building, describing the FIRS boss as “a shining light from Oyo State.”

Jesutoye concluded by wishing the celebrant many more years of fruitful service to the nation.