Oyo State Government has defended its decision to commence the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) with workers recruited in 2025, saying the move is aimed at guaranteeing a sustainable and predictable retirement system for civil servants.

In a statement issued on Friday, June 19, 2026, by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, he addressed concerns raised by workers over the implementation of the scheme.

According to the commissioner, the decision followed recommendations from the National Pension Commission (PenCom), which advised that newly recruited workers should be enrolled first to enable them contribute over a longer period and build substantial retirement savings before retirement which spans about three decades in many instances

He explained that the Contributory Pension Scheme was introduced as a more sustainable alternative to the old Defined Benefit Scheme, which many states have found difficult to maintain.

Oyelade noted that while Oyo State has been able to settle pension obligations up to 2021, some states are still struggling to pay pension arrears dating back to 2011, underscoring the challenges associated with the old system.

Responding to concerns that the government was transferring responsibility for pension payments to Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), the commissioner dismissed the claim, insisting that the state remains fully committed to the welfare of its workers and retirees.

“The government is not abdicating its responsibility. Under the CPS, government will continue to make its statutory contributions as required by law,” he said.

Also, On fears that pension deductions may not be remitted into workers’ Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs), Oyelade stated that the law mandates remittance of contributions within seven days of salary payment.

He added that the current administration has demonstrated its commitment to complying with the law and ensuring prompt remittance of both workers’ and government’s contributions.

The commissioner explained further that each worker owns and has access to his or her Retirement Savings Account, making the process transparent and allowing contributors to independently verify remittances.

Addressing concerns about possible defaults by future administrations, Oyelade said the scheme is backed by law and regulated by PenCom, which monitors compliance and provides oversight to ensure pension obligations are met.

According to him, the legal and regulatory framework of the CPS was designed to promote accountability and continuity beyond any particular administration.

Prince Oyelade also expressed confidence in the commitment of the current administration to workers’ welfare, describing Governor Seyi Makinde as a workers’ friendly governor who places the welfare of civil servants at the heart of his administration.
He said the governor has consistently paid workers’ salaries for more than seven years, not because of any specific law compelling him to do so, but out of a sense of public trust and responsibility.

He also reassured workers that the CPS does not remove government’s responsibility for retirees after leaving service.

Rather, he said, the scheme establishes a structured system in which pension contributions accumulated throughout an employee’s years of service are professionally managed in a Retirement Savings Account, while government continues to fulfil its statutory obligations.

Oyelade maintained that the Contributory Pension Scheme(CPS) remains one of the most reliable mechanisms for securing workers’ financial future after retirement.

Oyo State Police Command has recorded a breakthrough in an ongoing investigation into a case of abduction reported at Okaka Division, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the State.

The Command confirms that swift and coordinated operational measures undertaken following the said abduction report have yielded significant progress, resulting in the arrest of one suspect linked to the incident.

Oyo State Police Command said investigations remain active and intelligence-driven efforts are being intensified to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted victim and the apprehension of all other members of the criminal network.

The incident was reported on Friday, June 19, 2026 at about 0900hrs following information received that earlier that same day at about 0100hrs, a group of about eight armed men invaded Igboti Village via Okutalogun.

The Command has reassure the good people of Oyo State that this unfortunate incident is being treated with the utmost urgency and seriousness.

Oyo State Police Command has encouraged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, as security agencies have intensified coordinated operations to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of all those involved.
The Command further said it remains resolute and fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state, and no effort will be spared in bringing every member of the criminal gang to justice.

According report gathered, the assailants, armed with firearms and cutlasses, abducted Michael Benua, a 20-year-old male farmer and cattle rearer from the Igboti community, and whisked him away to an unknown destination. The attackers also allegedly carted away the sum of ₦1,240,000 and 50,000 CFA.

Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga Psc,mnips, immediately directed a wholistic manhunt comprising operatives of the Okaka Police Formation, personnel of the Amotekun Corps and local hunters. The joint team embarked on intensive combing of the surrounding bushes and adjoining locations with a view to rescuing the victim and apprehending the perpetrators.

During the preliminary investigation, forensic sweep of the scene of crime and combing of the surrounding bushes led to the arrest of one Yahaya Auta, male, aged 23 years, whose involvement in the criminal act was established.

Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the gang and is currently assisting investigators with efforts aimed at apprehending other fleeing members of the syndicate and securing the safe rescue of the victim.

The Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad has reinforced ongoing operations, while intensive search and rescue efforts continue.

The suspect remains in custody and investigation is ongoing.

The Oyo State Police Command assures residents of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urges members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.

INTRODUCTION

The media remains one of the most powerful institutions in society. It informs
citizens, holds government accountable, promotes transparency, and
supports democratic governance. However, in an age characterized by
terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, political polarization, and the
rapid spread of misinformation through digital platforms, journalists face
unprecedented challenges.
The demand today is not merely for reporting news but for reporting
responsibly. Every report can either calm tensions or inflame them; educate
citizens or mislead them; strengthen national security or unintentionally
undermine it.
The challenge before journalists is therefore to uphold professional standards
while ensuring that their work contributes to peace, security, and social
cohesion.
1. MEDIA ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

Media ethics are the moral principles and professional rules guiding
journalists in gathering, processing, and disseminating information.
Core Ethical Principles
Accuracy
Facts must be verified before publication.
The age of “publish first, verify later” has caused immense damage to public
trust.
Fairness
All sides of a story deserve an opportunity to be heard.
Journalists should avoid one-sided reporting.
Objectivity
Personal opinions, ethnic sentiments, religious biases, and political
preferences should not influence reporting.
Independence
Journalists should remain free from undue influence by governments,
politicians, advertisers, and interest groups.
Accountability
Media organizations must acknowledge and correct errors promptly.
Public Interest
The public’s right to know must guide editorial decisions.
Key Message
Speed should never take precedence over accuracy.
As journalists often say:
“It is better to be second and correct than first and wrong.”
2. EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION BETWEEN MEDIA AND SECURITY
AGENCIES

One recurring challenge in Nigeria and many African countries is the
relationship between journalists and security agencies.
Historically, there has been mutual suspicion:
Journalists fear censorship.
Security agencies fear operational compromise.
Yet both institutions ultimately serve the same public.
Why Collaboration Matters
Access to Accurate Information
Timely briefings reduce speculation and rumor.
Public Safety
Accurate reporting helps citizens make informed security decisions.
Crisis Communication
During emergencies, coordinated communication can prevent panic.
Countering Disinformation
Both institutions can jointly combat false narratives.
Principles for Healthy Collaboration
Respect for Professional Boundaries
Journalists are not security operatives.
Security agencies are not media regulators.
Regular Engagement
Periodic media-security forums should be institutionalized.
Designated Spokespersons
Security agencies should communicate through trained Public Relations
Officers.
Protection of Sensitive Operations
Certain tactical information should not be disclosed during active operations.
Mutual Trust
Trust is built through consistency, transparency, and professionalism.
Important Caveat
Collaboration must never become compromise.
The media must remain independent and retain its watchdog role.
A journalist’s responsibility is to the truth and the public interest.
3. RESPONSIBLE REPORTING IN AN ERA OF INSECURITY

Reporting insecurity is among the most difficult tasks in journalism.
The public deserves information, but careless reporting can worsen security
situations.
Common Risks
Glorification of Criminals
Excessive publicity may unintentionally elevate criminals into celebrities.
Creating Panic
Sensational headlines can spread fear.
Revealing Operational Details
Publishing troop movements or tactical plans may endanger lives.
Ethnic and Religious Profiling
Careless descriptions can fuel division and violence.
Best Practices
Verify Casualty Figures
Avoid publishing speculative numbers.
Use Credible Sources
Cross-check information with multiple sources.
Avoid Graphic Content
Respect victims and their families.
Focus on Context
Explain causes, consequences, and solutions rather than merely highlighting
violence.
Avoid Hate Speech
Do not provide platforms for inflammatory rhetoric.
Example
Instead of:
“Community Under Siege as Bloodthirsty Gang Slaughters Scores”
Consider:
“Security Agencies Respond to Attack as Authorities Assess Casualties”
The second headline informs without sensationalizing.
4. THE DANGERS AND CONSEQUENCES OF FAKE NEWS

Fake news has become one of the greatest threats to public trust and national
security.
Digital technology has transformed every citizen into a potential publisher.
False information now travels faster than verified information.
Sources of Fake News
Social media platforms
Anonymous blogs
Doctored videos
Manipulated photographs
Artificial intelligence-generated content
Political propaganda networks
Consequences
Threat to National Security
False reports can trigger panic and unrest.
Damage to Reputation
Individuals and institutions may suffer irreversible harm.
Electoral Manipulation
Disinformation can distort democratic processes.
Economic Losses
False reports may affect businesses and investments.
Erosion of Public Trust
Citizens become uncertain about what to believe.
Journalists’ Responsibility
Verify Before Amplifying
Being quoted from social media does not make information credible.
Fact-Check Visual Materials
Images and videos should be authenticated.
Use Trusted Sources
Reliance on official records and reputable witnesses is essential.
Correct Errors Promptly
Corrections should be visible and timely.
5. UNDERSTANDING CYBERCRIME LAWS AND LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF
MISINFORMATION

Journalists operating in the digital space must understand the legal
environment.
In Nigeria, the principal legislation is the Cybercrimes (Prohibition,
Prevention, etc.) Act, as amended.
The law addresses issues such as:
Cyberstalking
Identity theft
Online fraud
Unauthorized access
Dissemination of false information through electronic means
Legal Risks for Journalists
Defamation
Publishing false information that damages reputation.
Cyberstalking Allegations
Online content perceived as harassment may attract legal scrutiny.
Incitement
Reports capable of provoking violence may attract legal consequences.
Breach of Privacy
Publishing personal information without lawful justification.
What Journalists Should Do
Maintain Documentary Evidence
Keep records of interviews and sources.
Verify Facts Thoroughly
Verification remains the strongest legal protection.
Seek Legal Advice
Consult legal experts when handling sensitive investigations.
Understand Applicable Laws
Continuous training on media law and digital rights is necessary.
In an era where information travels faster than ever before, the responsibility
of journalists has become greater than ever. The task before us is not simply
to report events but to report them accurately, fairly, ethically, and
responsibly. As guardians of public information, we must ensure that our
reports enlighten rather than inflame, unite rather than divide, and strengthen
rather than weaken the foundations of peace, security, and democracy.
Responsible journalism is not merely a professional obligation; it is a service
to humanity and a contribution to national development.

Gbemiga Bamidele, Ph.D a Communication Scholar is the Convener, Society for Journalism
Enhancement Initiatives (S4JEI)

Oyo State Police Command has recorded yet another significant breakthrough in its sustained efforts to combat cultism, violent crimes, and other criminal activities across the State.

On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, operatives attached to the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Oyo Base, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended two suspected members of a notorious cult group at their hideout in the Oke-Apo area of Oyo Town.

The suspects, identified as Oparemi Kabiru, alias “Ikebe”, and Fasasi Taofeek, alias “Bufalo”, were arrested following intelligence indicating that they and their associates had been involved in activities threatening public peace and security within Oyo Town and its environs.

A search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of one locally made pistol and two live cartridges. During preliminary interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of the Eiye Supremo Confraternity and admitted involvement in several violent criminal activities within Oyo Town and surrounding communities.

The successful operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the critical role of actionable information provided by members of the public in combating crime. The Command notes that the arrest was made possible through credible intelligence, further reinforcing the importance of sustained cooperation between the Police and the communities they serve.

The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command CP Abimbola Ayodeji, Olugbenga psc, mnips, reassures residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and to ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven anywhere within the State. He emphasizes that security is a shared responsibility and calls on all residents to remain vigilant and actively support law enforcement efforts through timely, accurate, and credible information.

The Commissioner further urges members of the public to embrace the principle of “See Something, Say Something,” stressing that prompt reporting of suspicious persons, movements, and activities enables proactive police intervention and helps prevent crimes before they occur. He assures citizens that all information received by the Police will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.

The Oyo State Police Command remains fully prepared, strategically positioned, and operationally equipped to respond swiftly to security threats across the State. The Command therefore encourages residents to continue partnering with the Police in building safer communities and maintaining the peace and security currently being enjoyed in Oyo State.

The Command remains resolute in its determination to rid the State of cultism, armed violence, and all forms of criminality.

Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC), led by its Chairman, Dr. Afeez Adeniyi, on Thursday, June 18, 2026, held an interactive meeting with representatives of registered political parties in Oyo state as part of preparations for the forthcoming local government council elections in the state.

During the meeting, which took place at the Commission’s headquarters in Ibadan, copies of the election guidelines were distributed to political parties by OYSIEC ahead of primaries scheduled to hold between June 29 and July 27, 2026.

Addressing the participants, Dr. Adeniyi emphasized the critical role political parties play in the electoral process, urging them to diligently discharge their constitutional responsibilities to ensure a credible and peaceful election.

He stressed the importance of conducting party primaries within the stipulated period and forwarding the names of successful candidates to the commission as required by the electoral law.

The OYSIEC Chairman also urged political parties to carefully study and adhere to the election guidelines issued by the commission, noting that compliance would help prevent avoidable pre-election disputes and litigation.

Responding to questions and concerns raised by party representatives, Dr. Adeniyi reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to strictly adhere to the laws governing the conduct of local government council elections in Oyo State.

He called on political parties to promote greater inclusion of women in leadership and elective positions, describing women as vital contributors to national development.

“Today, we engaged representatives of registered political parties under the umbrella of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC). This meeting is part of our preparations for the local government council elections scheduled for December 29, 2026,” he said.

“We had fruitful discussions and exchanged ideas. Our officials will be available during the party primaries to monitor the process and provide necessary guidance where required.”

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and National Rescue Movement ( NRM), Oyo State , Mr. Kabiru Akinade, expressed concerns over some of the challenges associated with the conduct of local government council elections in Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Oyo State Woman Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Mrs. Olajumoke Odususi, advocated increased inclusion of women in electoral processes and decision-making structures as preparations for the elections gather momentum.

The Permanent Secretary of OYSIEC, Mrs. Abisola Kafayat Ogunmola, advised political parties to ensure accuracy in the personal data of successful candidates to be submitted to the commission in the interest of the parties and their candidates.

She appreciated the participants for their attendance and valuable contributions during the engagement.

The meeting also featured special prayers for the safe and speedy release of the abducted school children and teachers from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to efficient service delivery, human capital development, and sustainable economic growth, as the newly appointed Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Alhaja Faosat Joke Sanni, formally assumed office.

Speaking at her maiden meeting with the Ministry’s management staff held inside the Conference room of the Ministry, the Commissioner expressed profound appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for the confidence reposed in her, pledging to consolidate on existing gains and drive policies that will further strengthen the State’s economic landscape.

Hon. Sanni outlined a clear policy direction anchored on capacity building, institutional efficiency, and technology-driven governance. She emphasized that continuous professional development and the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) remain critical to modern public service performance.

As part of her agenda, the Commissioner disclosed plans to introduce structured in-house training programmes aimed at enhancing staff productivity, while also encouraging officers to embrace self-development and skills acquisition as tools for career advancement and improved service delivery.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to a result-oriented public service, Hon. Sanni charged staff to uphold the highest standards of diligence, integrity, and teamwork. She stressed that a culture of mutual respect, collaboration, and accountability is essential to achieving the Ministry’s mandate.

Drawing from her extensive experience within the Oyo State Civil Service, the Commissioner commended the professionalism of officers and underscored the importance of mentorship, particularly in grooming the next generation of public servants for greater responsibility.

On stakeholder engagement, Hon. Sanni highlighted the Ministry’s resolve to deepen collaboration with traders, cooperative societies, investors, and other critical stakeholders through sustained dialogue and inclusive engagement. She noted that strategic consultations with market leaders and relevant groups would be intensified to stimulate economic activities and boost the State’s internally generated revenue.

The Commissioner further assured that resource management would be guided by prudence, transparency, and strict adherence to government regulations. She also emphasized the need to strengthen security within the Ministry to guarantee a safe and conducive working environment.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Mahmud Okesade, welcomed the Commissioner and congratulated her on her appointment. He assured her of the unwavering support and cooperation of the management and staff, expressing confidence in her capacity to advance the Ministry’s strategic objectives in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s sustainable development agenda.

The meeting featured detailed presentations by Heads of Department, outlining their mandates, achievements, and operational priorities. Responding, Hon. Sanni commended their contributions and reaffirmed her commitment to providing the necessary leadership and support to enhance institutional efficiency.