The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Akpabio: Segun Awolowo built bridges across the Niger

    Akpabio: Segun Awolowo built bridges across the Niger

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Friday said that Segun Awolowo Jr. who died last month was a man who built bridges across the Niger and the Atlantic.

    Akpabio made the remarks during the funeral service held at the Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Lagos, in honour of the deceased.

    The Senate President, according to a statement by his media office,
    told the congregation, “Just to let you know that he was a man who built bridges across the Niger, across the Atlantic. There was nothing I did in my State(Akwa Ibom) when I was a governor that he did not attend. We followed each other like that.

    “He was a great lawyer. He emerged from a great legacy and he carried it with a lot of humility and candour.

    “As you see him now in front of us, I believe that heaven has gained an angel. I want the family to be comforted that yes, indeed, you must have lost a Dad, a Grandfather while you are still living, but you have gained an angel in heaven.

    Read Also: Shettima reaffirms Tinubu administration’s commitment to traditional institutions

    “On behalf of the 10th Senate, the entire National Assembly which had the privilege of relating with him, whether as Secretary at the FCT, or as a Lawyer or at the Nigerian Export Promotion Council where his work touched the less privileged or whether in the social cycle where the trademark of the great Awolowo family showed his presence, his radiance.

    “Whether as a child of God where he showed that yes, indeed, the family is not just great in name but also great in the worship of God.

    “Be consoled that we will miss him, not just today but for decades to come. He did his best. He lived a good life. He touched many. He made friends with so many.

    “He touched states. He made friends with many states. He made friends with high and the low and he was a great brother to the current Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

    President Bola Tinubu was represented at the occasion by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila who quoted Tinubu as saying that “Segun served Nigeria with an exceptional passion and an unending dedication.”

    Also speaking, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the late Segun worked with quiet dignity, unwavering condition and had an uncommon dedication and devotion to the Nigerian dream.

    The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun who, in his tribute, described Segun as a “jolly good fellow,” also remarked that “he lived a life of humility and service with a deep sense of patriotism to his country.”

  • RCCG launches free-bus-to-work initiative for second year in a row

    RCCG launches free-bus-to-work initiative for second year in a row

    Rising living costs without a corresponding increase in income have become the daily reality for many Nigerians, with transportation emerging as one of the most pressing challenges. To ease this burden, Youth Province 1 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), in collaboration with several other youth provinces across Lagos, has provided free transportation for workers over a set period.

    Now in its second year, the initiative was first introduced in 2023 and ran from October to December, offering vital relief as expenses surged.

    The free-bus-to-work programme deploys about 10 long yellow buses daily, conveying hundreds of commuters to and from designated bus stops in the mornings and evenings.

    This year’s edition was held from November 24 to December 5. Morning routes included RCCG Jesus’s Palace (Festac) to CMS, Oworonshoki to CMS, Redemption City to 7UP, Redemption City to Sagamu, Redemption City to Trinity Towers (VI), Redemption City to Agege, and Ikorodu to Maryland. Free return trips were also provided in the evenings, with the church spending about N40 million on the project.

    Read Also: Shettima reaffirms Tinubu administration’s commitment to traditional institutions

    Pastor Oluwagbemileke Adeboye, Pastor-in-Charge of Youth Province 1, described the programme as an expression of support for the public.

    “This initiative is our way of lending a hand to people. We did it last year and witnessed the massive relief it provided, so we decided to do it again this year in collaboration with Youth Provinces 2, 7, 14, 18, and 20 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God,” he said.

    He added that the trips also serve as an avenue for sharing God’s Word and praying at the start and end of the day, noting that the buses are open to all, regardless of tribe or religion.

    Pastor Martins Olusakin, Assistant Pastor-in-Charge of Province (CSR), and Pastor Abiodun Famojuro, Assistant Pastor-in-Charge of Province (Administration), are working alongside Pastor Adeboye as Youth Province 1 intensifies preparations for the RCCG Holy Ghost Congress scheduled for the second week of December.

    The free-bus initiative has gained traction through word of mouth, with many beneficiaries expressing appreciation on social media.

    The gratitude of commuters is evident in their smiles and relief as the church continues to extend support to those in need.

  • Oba of Benin suspends Ovia Shrine Chief Priest

    Oba of Benin suspends Ovia Shrine Chief Priest

    The Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku-Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II M, has suspended Chief Priest of Uviamen village, Chief Sunday Sidney Enoma, in Ovia North East local government Area.

    Chief Enoma was the Ohen-Ovia (Chief Priest) of Unuamen.

    He was suspended for violating the custom and traditional of Benin Kingdom.

    Read Also: Tinubu constitutes boards of NADF, BOA, UBEC

    The suspension of Chief Enoma was contained in press statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to Oba Ewuare II, Osaigbovo Iguobaro.

    The statement said the Oba of Benin reaffirmed Chief Kingsley Igbinosa at the Okao (traditional head) of Unuamen Village.

    It said the suspended Chief Priest lacked the powers to install the Okao of the village.

    The statement said all Chieftaincy titles in Benin kingdom were conferred by the Oba of Benin.

  • Tacha reacts to ‘Aunty Esther’s’ cancer treatment decision

    Tacha reacts to ‘Aunty Esther’s’ cancer treatment decision

    Reality star Tacha has weighed in on X user, Omolola Mensah popularly known as Aunty Esther’s recent health crisis.

    Aunty Esther, a devout church member of a prominent church, was diagnosed with breast cancer that had spread to her armpit.

    Doctors advised chemotherapy, which often requires blood transfusions to optimize blood levels.

    However, her church’s doctrine prohibits the acceptance of blood transfusions, viewing it as equivalent to consuming blood.

    The fundraiser, coordinated by media personality Wisdom Obi-Dickson amassed N30,776,252 with notable contributions including N5 million from Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.

    Supporters rallied around Omolola’s reputation as a reliable personal shopper on X (formerly Twitter), where she built a loyal following.

    Read Also: Ned Nwoko renews call for social media regulation after false assassination claim

    Obi-Dickson announced on Friday that Omolola had declined the transfusion.

    He emphasised respecting her faith but later stepped down from coordinating, citing complications, including reports that her church threatened disfellowshipping and her family viewed outcomes as “God’s will.”

    Obi-Dickson also alleged Omolola asked a caregiver to lie about her decision and described her as “not a good or honest person.”

    Weighing on the issue, Tacha stated that individuals who wish to end their lives should be allowed to do so, calling it “pure madness” to try to save someone who doesn’t want to be saved.

    Tacha also criticised Aunty Esther’s behavior, citing her perceived lack of empathy and reckless attitude.

    She questioned the hypocrisy of accepting certain religious beliefs while rejecting life-saving medical treatment.

    The reality star further argued that the N30 million raised for Aunty Esther’s treatment could save numerous lives in Nigeria, suggesting the funds would be better utilised helping those who want to live.

    Tacha wrote: “Honestly yall, If somebody wants to diie, i don’t see the argument, you people should allow the person die. I don’t see reasons trying to save someone who doesn’t want to be saved..“This isn’t about religious belief it’s just pure madness”.

    “And let’s be for real, I’m not surprised about Aunty Esther’s situation.. She has consistently shown recklessness and a lack of care over the years, even when there’s a serious issue or a family mourning on Twitter, she’ll be there advertising her business with no empathy.

    “But of course, she’s “Twitters Favorite” so yall have always giving her a clear pass. Big hypocrites

    “Isn’t it funny, how your religion allows you to “lie” listen! If you can lie, you can steal and cheat. Your religion permits all that, but won’t allow a blood transfusion to save your OWN life??

    “That 30 million Naira raised can save 50-100 lives in today’s Nigeria! Just channel the funds to people who want to live, and let those who want to diie do so in peace”.

  • Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment, adopts community service for waste offenders

    Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment, adopts community service for waste offenders

    The Ogun State Government has announced that residents caught dumping refuse on roads will henceforth be arrested, corrected with compassion, and assigned community service as punishment.

    Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya disclosed this while briefing members of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council during their fourth quarterly meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Thursday.

    Oresanya stressed that the law forbids dumping refuse on roadways, noting that streets are not designated as dump sites.

    He explained that residents are expected to place their refuse in front of their homes for Private Sector Participants (PSPs) to collect directly at their doorsteps.

    He revealed that the state government is refining its enforcement strategy by shifting away from monetary fines to reduce financial pressure on citizens. Instead, offenders will be required to undertake community service.

    According to him, Governor Dapo Abiodun remains deeply concerned about environmental management in the state and is investing significantly in new equipment to strengthen the Ministry of Environment’s operations.

    “Under no condition should you dump refuse on the road. OGWAMA has the authority to arrest offenders, and those arrested will do community service.
    We will correct in love. You will sweep the road and collect refuse. When people see you doing that, they will understand the consequences, and you won’t return to the same habit,” he said.

    Oresanya added that Governor Abiodun has approved the procurement of brand-new trucks both for OGWAMA and the private waste sector to improve waste management across the state.

    Read Also: Tinubu constitutes boards of NADF, BOA, UBEC

    Addressing the issue of noise pollution, the Commissioner disclosed that the ministry has shut several religious centres and other facilities found to be violating noise regulations.

    He encouraged residents to report such disturbances through the ministry’s dedicated helpline: 09010480056.

    He further emphasized that sanitation should be a daily responsibility rather than a once-a-month ritual. He noted that Section 6 of the Constitution empowers Local Government Health Officers to inspect homes, ensure bins are not overflowing, and prosecute erring households.

    In addition, Oresanya revealed that safety consultants from the ministry are inspecting gas plants across the state to ensure compliance with safety standards, with substandard facilities set to be shut down soon.

    Commending the ministry’s recent intervention in Ogijo, Chief (Mrs.) Iyabo Apampa urged the Commissioner to also address air pollution and indiscriminate parking of trailers around Ibese and Papalanto where cement factories operate.

    Hon. Samuel Olubunmi Dada called on sanitary officers in the Local Governments to rise to their responsibilities, while encouraging residents to prioritize cleanliness and proper refuse disposal.

    Chairman of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, applauded the state government’s efforts in waste management and agricultural development.

    He also described the 2026 Budget of Sustainable Legacy, recently presented by Governor Abiodun, as a well-structured roadmap for a prosperous new year.

  • ADC dismisses governorship candidate selection rumours

    ADC dismisses governorship candidate selection rumours

    African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed social media reports claiming it has nominated a candidate for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    It said all aspirants would take part in a primary election, in line with its official timetable, after which the winner would emerge as the party’s standard-bearer.

    The clarification became necessary following social media reports that the party had allegedly named Dr Najeem Salaam as its candidate for the 2026 Osun governorship election.

    Salaam’s alleged emergence followed a closed-door meeting of the party’s national leadership in Lagos, where he was reportedly selected ahead of former Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti.

    The Lagos gathering, according to the social media account, was convened to reconcile factional differences and produce a unified candidate, with sources saying the vote tilted in Salaam’s favour, signalling a possible shift in the party’s internal dynamics.

    However, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, dismissed the report, insisting it should be ignored.

    READ ALSO; Sabinus confirms amicable dissolution of marriage

    Abdullahi, in a post on his X social media account, said: “ADC will like to affirm our earlier statement that videos and social media posts claiming that the party has ‘picked’ a candidate are false and should be disregarded.

    “For the purpose of conducting the primaries to elect the party’s standard-bearer for the 2026 governorship election in Osun, a timetable has been released and widely publicised.

    “Aspirants are urged to adhere strictly to the guidelines.

    “For the avoidance of doubts, ADC remains committed to the highest standard of internal democracy, anchored on a free, fair and transparent electoral process.”

  • How we killed, dismembered FRSC official, daughter, by herbalist, Osun grilled fish seller

    How we killed, dismembered FRSC official, daughter, by herbalist, Osun grilled fish seller

    A 38-year-old grilled fish seller, Victor Fajemirokun, has narrated how he conspired with an herbalist and his apprentice, to kill a 38-year-old senior Road Safety Corps officer, Funmilayo Lasisi and his 12-year-old daughter, to assuage his destiny.

    Victor, an Osogbo-based grilled fish seller, confirmed that he is the boyfriend of Funmilayo but lured her to a herbalist’s house in Ijebu-Jesa to kill her.

    Parading the suspects, the state Commissioner of Police (CP), Ibrahim Gotan, said Victor was reported missing/kidnapped on November 2, and his men found his car at Ikoyi on Ibadan/Ife Expressway.

    He said the investigation led to the arrest of Gboyega Daramola, the herbalist known as Aberefa, who confessed that Victor lured a woman and her daughter to his place where they were killed for a money ritual.

    Gotan said on November 17, the herbalist led them to Esa-Odo Dam where they dumped the remains of the victims with vital parts missing. Subsequently, one Sunday James, an apprentice of the herbalist, was arrested. He confessed to have slaughtered the mother and her child on the instructions of his boss.

    Victor said he had consulted an Alfa, who told him that his girlfriend(Road Safety officer), was behind his predicament and impeding the speed of his destiny.

    He later consulted the herbalist who insisted that he should lure her to his shrine for a ritual and they eventually killed them(Funmi and her daughter), dismembered the body.

    READ ALSO: Why I apologised to Afeez Owo – Wumi Toriola

    Victor said he fled Ijebu Jesa to Ikoyi where he initially told them at home that he went to pray. After, he abandoned his car and ran to Ibadan, later to Ghana where he was nabbed and repatriated.

    The herbalist also corroborated Victor confirming that he was the one who called his apprentices to help him carry out the killing.

    Also, one of the apprentices, Sunday James said: “I am the one who slaughtered Funmi and her daughter on the instruction of my boss. He threatened me that I must not disobey his instructions.’’

    The CP said efforts were ongoing to arrest other apprentices who are at large and that, subsequently, they would be charged in court.

  • Osun 2026: Oyebamiji for screening Thursday

    Osun 2026: Oyebamiji for screening Thursday

    Ahead of the December 13 Osun State governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji will today appear before the party’s seven-man screening committee in Abuja.

    The screening, which started yesterday, had five of the nine aspirants appearing before the committee.

    Leading the pack, former deputy governor and ex-APC national secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, was screened yesterday by the Obinna Uzor-led seven-man Osun State Governorship Primary Election Screening Committee.

    Also interviewed were development financier, Babatunde Oralusi, former chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Oyedotun Babayemi, business magnate and insurance expert, Dr Akinade Ogunbiyi and former deputy governor of the state, Benedict Alabi.

    Those on the list for today’s exercise, in accordance with the schedule of screening of governorship aspirants as released by the party are former Managing Director of Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Asiwaju Oyebamiji, legal icon, Adegoke Adekunle (SAN), the only female aspirant and former lawmaker in Osun State House of Assembly, Dr. Mulikat Jimoh and the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental, Sen. Babajide Omoworare.

    The schedule of activities and timetable for Osun State governorship election released by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Sulaiman Arugungu, showed that screening of aspirants would be concluded today, while the party would publish the screening results tomorrow, ahead of December 6 screening appeal.

    The party’s shadow election is slated to hold on December 13.

    READ ALSO: Why I apologised to Afeez Owo – Wumi Toriola

    Earlier yesterday before the commencement of the screening, the Deputy National Organising Secretary of the party, Nze Duru, inaugurated the seven-man Screening Committee and five-man Screening Appeal Committee.

    The Screening Committee had former senatorial aspirant (Anambra South Senatorial District) 2025 by-election  Obinna Uzor as Chairman. Raphael Igbokwe will serve as Secretary. Other members are Ifeoluwa Arowosoge, Chief Margaret Duru, Princess Farida Odangi and Ahmed Sani.

    The five-man Screening Appeal Committee is headed by Sen. Tolu Odeniyi, Smart Iheazor is secretary. Other members are Abdullahi Abdulkadir, Daniel Reyenieju and Halima Hayatu.

  • 38 rescued Kwara abducted worshippers return home

    38 rescued Kwara abducted worshippers return home

    It was joy galore as 38 rescued Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) worshippers in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State returned home.

    The rescued worshippers arrived in Eruku about 6:30 pm on Tuesday.

    Family and community members received them with cheers, tears of joy, and songs of gratitude.

    Barely three weeks ago, gunmen attacked the church in the agrarian community while service was on.

    The bandits killed three persons and carted away 38 parishioners.

    But the swift response of the Presidency, Office of the National Security Adviser and security agencies led to the rescue of the abductees from the goons.

    They had stayed in Ilorin for more than a week for medical attention following their rescue.

    In a statement, media aide to Ekiti Local Government, Prince Sunday Dada, said the returnees were handed over to the council Chairman Michael Awelewa in Ilorin.

    READ ALSO; Sabinus confirms amicable dissolution of marriage

    Mr. Awelewa expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq, the National Security Adviser, and security agencies for the swift response that led to the rescue of the abductees.

    He commended the medical attention and support provided to the victims after their release, assuring residents that his administration would continue to strengthen security architecture across the 10 wards of the local government.

    The Owa of Eruku, Oba Busari Olanrewaju, also thanked the authorities involved in the rescue, describing the safe return of the worshippers as a huge relief for the community.

    Residents said the development had brought renewed hope to the area.

  • Transfers: Milan to demand  €30m Euros for ‘new born’ Chukwueze from Fulham  

    Transfers: Milan to demand  €30m Euros for ‘new born’ Chukwueze from Fulham  

    Following his recent performances in the English Premiership, Milan reportedly wants around  €30 million  for a permanent transfer for Nigeria International winger. Samuel Chukwueze.

    Chukwueze on Tuesday,  impressed with a brace (two goals) in Fulham’s thrilling 4-5 loss against Manchester City at Craven Cottage.

    Fulham were 1-5 down but fought back with goals from Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi, both Super Eagles internationals.

    Chukwueze is currently on loan from AC Milan to Fulham, with an option to buy.  Milan hopes to cash in from this transfer to reinvest in new players next season.

    Manager Marco Silva has eased Chukwueze into Premier League football and appears to have revitalized him.

     even as  Chukwueze has shown eagerness to stay longer at Fulham and is thriving under Silva’s management.  He emphasized that the belief from his coach and teammates has been crucial to his form. 

    “I think I’m finding myself. The coach believes in me,” he said matter-of-factly in an interview with the club’s website . “That’s the most important thing – a coach that believes in you, pushes you and the fans. My teammates push me a lot, so I have to give them credit and the coach credit as well.”

    Read Also: Ibeabuchi set for December bout, targets Foreman’s record in Lagos

    Despite scoring twice against City, he was disappointed with the team’s loss and highlighted the importance of team success over individual accolades. 

    “For me, it’s a good feeling to score two goals, but not a good feeling to lose.

     “If I had scored my two goals and we won, it would have meant a lot to me – but for now, it doesn’t mean a lot.”

    “It was a crazy game today. We conceded goals we shouldn’t have conceded, but I liked the spirit of the team for the comeback.

     “The chances we created in the second half were almost there. It was a difficult one to take because we wanted three wins in a row, and it didn’t happen, but we’ll keep our heads up.”

    He added that  Fulham will be aiming for a win in their upcoming match: “We fought until the last minute (against Man City)  and on Sunday (against Crystal Palace) we’re going to give everything for the fans.”