Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN), publishers of the Tribune titles, as they celebrate an impressive milestone of 75 years in journalism.

In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Atiku expressed profound admiration for the historic contributions of the Tribune to Nigeria’s fight for freedom and democracy.

Founded in 1949 during the peak of colonial rule across Africa, the Nigerian Tribune emerged as a voice of resistance and a symbol of hope for the oppressed.

It stood firm alongside other pioneering newspapers of its time, challenging colonial oppression and advocating for a liberated Nigeria.

Today, it remains the last surviving publication of that era, often referred to as “the last pen standing” in the battle against tyranny.

Atiku noted the paper’s instrumental role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey, emphasizing how its fearless reporting and commitment to truth contributed to the nation’s eventual liberation from colonial rule.

Atiku also mentioned about his personal connection to the Tribune, pointing to his long-standing admiration for the paper’s founder, the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Awolowo, a prominent nationalist, politician, and statesman, established the Nigerian Tribune not only as a newspaper but as a platform for advancing the ideals of justice, equity, and national development.

Reflecting on his relationship with the newspaper, Atiku shared that many of the Tribune’s editors during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggles remain his personal friends.

He acknowledged the critical role the publication played during the fight to restore democratic governance, praising its commitment to unbiased reporting and courageous journalism during some of the country’s darkest periods.

While celebrating the newspaper’s legacy, Atiku commended the current leadership of the Tribune for upholding its founding principles.

“I must also commend the current managers of the newspapers for carrying on the torch of Truth and Courage,” he said.

The publication has not only survived decades of economic, political, and social challenges but continues to thrive as a trusted source of news and commentary.

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspected vote-buyer during the ongoing governorship election in Ondo State.

According to reports, the individual was caught with two bags of cash, allegedly intended to sway voters at the polling station.

The arrest took place at Ward 4, Polling Unit 007, situated outside St. Stephen’s Primary School in Akure.

It occurred around 9:00 am, just as voters began trooping in to exercise their civic duty.

Eyewitnesses disclosed that the suspect’s activities had drawn suspicion before the DSS operatives intervened and took him into custody.

Vote-buying, a practice that undermines free and fair elections, has been a recurring issue in Nigeria’s electoral process, and the arrest underscores the determination of security agencies to clamp down on such illegal acts.

Authorities are yet to disclose further details about the suspect or the exact amount of money recovered.

Meanwhile, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has already cast his vote at Polling Unit 6, Ward 4, located in Obenla, Ilaje Local Government Area.

Aiyedatiwa, the incumbent governor, is seeking re-election under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and faces stiff competition from 16 other candidates representing various political parties.

Among his main challengers is Agboola Ajayi, a seasoned politician contesting under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ajayi, who has served in different political capacities, including as deputy governor, is a prominent figure in the state and is known for his grassroots support.

As the day progresses, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured voters of a transparent process. 

Observers from local and international organizations have also been stationed across polling units to monitor proceedings.

Security agencies have intensified efforts to ensure a peaceful atmosphere, emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy toward electoral malpractices.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured voters in Ondo State of a smooth and credible governorship election as residents head to the polls today.

Speaking on Friday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Professor Kunle Ajayi, INEC National Commissioner overseeing Ondo, Ogun, and Osun States, reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to deliver on its mandate.

Ajayi expressed confidence in INEC’s preparations, stating that the electoral body has taken all necessary steps to ensure a seamless process.

“We have done our work diligently, and we are proud of our efforts.

We will not let the people of Ondo State down as they turn out in large numbers to elect their next governor,” he emphasized.

INEC began distributing sensitive electoral materials to various local government areas across the state on Thursday.

This process was carried out at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office in Alagbaka, Akure, under tight security.

Armed police officers, party representatives, and commercial buses hired by the Commission were present to oversee and facilitate the distribution.

Unlike the recent governorship election in Edo State, where logistical challenges delayed some materials, Ajayi confirmed that all Registered Areas (RAs) in Ondo State had received their sensitive materials by Friday afternoon.

“As of 3 pm today, every RA had been supplied with their materials.

The next step is to ensure they are delivered to Polling Units (PUs) in time for voting.

I personally visited some of the RAs this afternoon to monitor progress,” he added.