The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against terrorism, bandity

    Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against terrorism, bandity

    …pledges justice for victims of Owo massacre 

    Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminal elements, threatening the peace and unity of the nation.

    Speaking at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, the governor said the country has the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging the military’s efforts at ensuring national stability.

    Recounting the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed, Aiyedatiwa noted that survivors of the violent attack still bear the scars. 

    He described the tragedy as a major blow to families of the victims and to the entire state.

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor stressed that the memories of the victims would linger. 

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing justice, while making security a top priority.

    “As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror’s might and other forms of criminalities. In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts, and ensure a safer Sunshine State,” Aiyedatiwa said.

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    The governor highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, disclosing that 75 high-grade Hilux vehicles equipped with modern gadgets were recently procured, alongside monthly logistics support for operatives. 

    He noted that these measures have earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    Aiyedatiwa also lauded Bishop Arogundade as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice, and human dignity, commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development.

    In his remarks, Bishop Arogundade applauded the state government for returning missionary schools to the church, promising continued delivery of quality education anchored on strong moral values. 

    Reflecting on his 35 years of priesthood and 15 years as bishop, he urged newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in devotion to God and service to humanity.

  • 2027: Oyo lawmaker, Oseni to mobilise thousands of ROCOF members for Tinibu’s re-election

    2027: Oyo lawmaker, Oseni to mobilise thousands of ROCOF members for Tinibu’s re-election

    …seeks APC alignment to attract more FG presence in Oyo

    The lawmaker representing Ido/Ibarapa East Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Aderemi Oseni, has declared that the Remi Oseni Committee of Friends (ROCOF) will mobilise massively to secure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 and return the All Progressives Congress (APC) to power in Oyo State.

    Oseni, who is also the President of ROCOF, disclosed that the movement has already registered over 265,000 members across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, just eight weeks after its inauguration in Ibadan. 

    He projected that the figure would rise to 500,000 by December.

    Speaking in Ibadan at the launch of ROCOF’s Ido Local Government Area chapter, Oseni said Nigerians are eager for change and committed to building a new future under Tinubu’s leadership.

    He praised the President’s reforms, including fuel subsidy removal, increased allocations to states, agricultural interventions, financial support for small businesses, and the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which he described as a bold move giving hope to millions of students.

    The lawmaker emphasised the need for APC to reclaim Oyo State in 2027 to align with the Federal Government and attract more development projects. 

    According to him, the PDP-led administration in the state must be shown the “exit door” for residents to enjoy greater dividends of democracy.

    Oseni also announced a ₦50 million intervention fund for traders in Ido/Ibarapa East Federal Constituency to support small businesses and boost grassroots economic activities.

    He said, “Our traders are the heartbeat of local commerce. This support will help them grow and expand their businesses.”

    Read Also: Nigeria adopts TFT for capacity building

    The ROCOF leader also unveiled a new scholarship initiative for youths, tagged the “ROCOF University Scholarship Scheme,” under which students who score at least five distinctions in WAEC and gain admission into higher institutions will enjoy free tuition from entry to graduation.

    “Our youths are leaders of tomorrow. Education is the bedrock of progress, and we will continue to invest in them.”

    The assembly, which Oseni described as his “homecoming of destiny,” was attended by traditional rulers, APC chieftains, artisans, women and youth groups, and thousands of grassroots supporters.

  • Osun 2026: APC leaders declare support for Adegoke

    Osun 2026: APC leaders declare support for Adegoke

    Ahead of the primary election of the All Progressive Congress to select the party’s candidate for the 2026 governorship election in Osun State, party leaders have declared their support for Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (SAN), popularly known as K-RAD.

    During his visit to Boripe Local Government Area of the State, the APC Elders’ Caucus commended Adegoke’s loyalty and dedication to the party.

    The Chairman of the Boripe APC Elders’ Caucus, Hon. Osuolale Bello praised Adegoke for his consistent commitment to the party’s unity, membership drive, growth and development.

    The Boripe APC Elders also declared that former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola had not endorsed any aspirant for the 2026 governorship election.

    “Barrister Kunle Adegoke has demonstrated exemplary loyalty to the APC through his legal expertise, grassroots engagement, and steadfast support for the party’s vision. His contributions, including his role in defending the party’s interests in high-profile electoral cases, have been invaluable,” the lawyer said.

    The elders highlighted Adegoke’s efforts in fostering unity among party members and his policy-driven approach to governance, as outlined in his engagements with APC leaders and stakeholders. They described him as a “utility aspirant” whose vision for economic revival, transparent governance, and infrastructure development aligns with the aspirations of Osun residents.

    READ ALSO: North frantic about 2027

    Addressing speculations that have been rife in the past few months, Bello emphasized that Oyetola, a key leader of APC in Osun, remains neutral and focused on uniting the party to reclaim power from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2026.

    “Alhaji Oyetola has made it clear that his priority is the APC’s victory, not the endorsement of any individual aspirant.

    “He urged all aspirants to work together, avoid divisive tactics, and prioritize the party’s collective goal,” Bello stated, referencing Oyetola’s remarks at a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Osogbo.

    Responding, Adegoke reaffirmed his support for Oyetola’s leadership and the APC’s mission to deliver good governance in Osun State. He called on all party members to remain united and mobilize for the upcoming Continuous Voters Registration exercise, describing it as a critical step toward ensuring electoral success in 2026.

  • TAMPAN hails longest-reigning Ekiti monarch on 66th anniversary

    TAMPAN hails longest-reigning Ekiti monarch on 66th anniversary

    The Ekiti State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, the Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on the 66th anniversary of his ascension to the throne.

    In a statement, the Governor of the association, Olasunkanmi Dada, hailed the monarch for projecting the heritage of the town in the last 65 years.

    “Since 1959, Kabiyesi has stood as a pillar of culture, tradition, and wisdom, carrying the heritage of one of the country’s richest lands with grace and dignity. His reign remains a testament to the resilience of our heritage, the depth of our history, and the pride of our identity as Yorubas.”

    The highly-revered monarch, who turned 92 in August, 2025 is loved and celebrated by his people for his dedication and preservation of the beautiful heritage and history of the ancient town.

    One of such, according to Dada, is the celebration of the annual Àkè festival, known as Odún Àkè by the people of the community.

    READ ALSO: North frantic about 2027

    “Odún Àkè is not just a festival, but who we are. It is celebrated with pomp and pageantry by the good people of Igede-Ekiti. It is one festival that binds every son and daughter of Igede together,” Dada explained.

    As part of the efforts to record the story behind the festival for posterity, Dada disclosed that he is rounding off plans to put Àkè story into a movie.

    Àkè cum Igede Ekiti has a very rich history. And it should equally be noted that the popular Osun River has its source in Igede Ekiti.

    The proposed movie on Àkè will be quite entertaining and educative, especially to the good people of Igede-Ekiti..

  • Akoko youths rebuke Oluboyo over statement on Ondo APC leadership tussle

    Akoko youths rebuke Oluboyo over statement on Ondo APC leadership tussle

    The Akoko Youth Frontiers has expressed strong displeasure over a recent statement credited to Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo, alleging a purported leadership tussle between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    In a statement signed by its Convener, Ologunagba Kayode, the group described Oluboyo’s claims as “baseless, misleading and an attempt to sow discord within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State.”

    Oluboyo had suggested that there was a brewing contest for the leadership of the party between Governor Aiyedatiwa and Dr. Tunji-Ojo, further pointing to the fact that the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and the Minister both hail from Ondo North Senatorial District.

    The group, however, faulted Oluboyo for failing to cite any instance, either in private or in public, where Dr. Tunji-Ojo had questioned the leadership of the APC in the state or attempted to disrupt any zoning arrangement.

    “It is surprising that a man of Oluboyo’s calibre, who should be playing a leadership role for all politicians of Akoko extraction, would instead choose to throw a fellow Akoko man under the bus for personal gain. Meanwhile, it is not as if we do not know that Oluboyo was never recognised in the eyes of the law as Deputy Governor, since Ali Olanusi won against him in court. However, we have all graciously continued to accord him that respect.” he said.

    READ ALSO: How long can Wike walk the tightrope?

    The group likened Oluboyo’s position to the biblical ‘voice of Jacob, hands of Esau,’ alleging that the former deputy governor was only acting on behalf of a hidden paymaster.

    The Akoko Youth Frontiers challenged Oluboyo to state clearly if he had ever reached out to the Minister to verify the allegations before making his statement public. “If no such effort was made, then he is not in any position to give unsolicited advice to Dr. Tunji-Ojo.” the group stated.

    The statement further reaffirmed the group’s support for the Minister, describing him as “a man of honour whose current focus is delivering the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians.”

    The group warned against what it described as a “devilish plot of bringing him down at all costs,” which it said has historically hindered the progress of Akokoland.

    “We say enough of this destructive tendency. As Akoko sons and daughters, we will continue to stand by our son, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in his service to the nation.” The statement concluded.

  • Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against, criminal elements

    Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against, criminal elements

    • Pledges justice for victims of Owo massacre

    Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminal elements, threatening the peace and unity of the nation.

    Speaking on Saturday at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, the governor, said the country has the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging the military’s efforts at ensuring national stability.

    Recounting the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed, Aiyedatiwa noted that survivors of the violent attack still bear the scars.

    He described the tragedy as a major blow to families of the victims and to the entire state.

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor stressed that the memories of the victims would linger.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing justice, while making security a top priority.

    “As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror and other forms of criminalities. In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts, and ensure a safer Sunshine State,” Aiyedatiwa said.”

    READ ALSO: North frantic about 2027

    The governor highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, disclosing that 75 high-grade Hilux vehicles equipped with modern gadgets were recently procured, alongside monthly logistics support for operatives.

    He noted that these measures have earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    Aiyedatiwa also lauded Bishop Arogundade as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice, and human dignity, commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development.

    In his remarks, Bishop Arogundade applauded the state government for returning missionary schools to the church, promising continued delivery of quality education anchored on strong moral values.

    Reflecting on his 35 years of priesthood and 15 years as bishop, he urged newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in devotion to God and service to humanity.

  • ‎Awujale’s stool not for highest bidder, says eligible family’s head Owoyemi

    ‎Awujale’s stool not for highest bidder, says eligible family’s head Owoyemi

    The newly appointed Olori – Ebi ( Head) of Funsegbuwa ruling house of Ijebu -Ode, Otunba Abdul – Lateef Owoyemi, on Saturday declared that the royal family would follow the wise counsel of Awujale of Ijebuland, late Oba Sikiru Adetona, who advised few years ago before his passing that the throne should not be sold to the “money bags” to occupy.

    Owoyemi who is also the Otunba Jadiara of Ijebuland said that heeding the timely advice of the late nonagenarian monarch remains the assured way to select the right and competent successor – Awujale, who would continue and sustain the rapid growth, development, peace and unity trajectory Oba Adetona left behind for the Ijebu nation.

    The former President of Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (ICAN) spoke on Saturday at Idowa country home, Ogun State while briefing newsmen on the task before him which is building unity within the Fusengbuwa ruling house and working to bring dissenting voices into the house as one big family so as to enable the princes and princess speak with one voice at the appropriate time to make nominations for the vacant throne of Awujale of Ijebuland.

    Fielding question from reporters at the press briefing which had in attendance members of the Elders Council of the royal family, including Prince Ayinde Kazeem, Prince Adebisi Quadri and Prince Fetuga Taiwo, the Olori – Ebi assured that the Oba Adetona’s advice against yielding to money when selecting his successor would be followed.

    READ ALSO: North frantic about 2027

    The Olori – Ebi said, ‎”It is not that he(late Oba Adetona) told us, he said it openly during Ojude Oba Day because on that particular day, there were some big men on the high table some of whom said they have budgeted N1bn to be able to become next Awujale and the Awujale then said, ‘Governor and all of you here, I don’t know how soon God may call me home but it came to my hearing that some money bags want to buy their way to the Obaship. Please, don’t allow them. If you allow them, Ijebu – Ode will go down. Go and pick the right person, fit and proper to rule Ijebu – Ode so that he can elevate it. If you don’t do it, don’t say, I didn’t warn you. Let the kingmakers appoint whoever that is competent, capable and qualified to occupy the position.  If it happened that the ruling house that is next in line, there is no suitable person because of crisis, the opportunity will go to the next ruling house to look for suitable person.’

    ‎”So far, in our unit, we have seen eight likely candidates and they have come to see us with money and in every case we rejected it, we let them know that we are not going to accept any money from anybody. If anybody becomes Awujale and comes back to thanks us with gifts, it is understandable but not before he becomes an Awujale.”

    ‎He said the task before him was to unite all the various units of Fusengbuwa ruling house, bring dissenting voices into the family as one ahead of nomination of candidates for the throne of Awujale of Ijebuland, stressing that his goal is to build harmony and peace in the house and not controversy.

    ‎”We are just going to moderate the family   to make sure we go to the family meeting as one to make nominations.  We are not going to appoint Awujale.  We don’t have the power.  We can only make nominations and if nominations are made and seconded, it goes down into record.  If they are too many, we will do screening otherwise, the kingmakers will do their selection.

    ‎”And the declaration is unique.  It says if the family cannot meet together to nominate candidates, each unit can have its own meeting to nominate candidates.  The kingmakers will have the duty of appointing an Awujale from the whole list whoever they want to be the Awujale.  That is the end of the matter.  It also says that the kingmakers – 13 of them – must be unanimous in their decision, ” he said.

  • Oyo NES hails Adenikinju’s outstanding leadership

    Oyo NES hails Adenikinju’s outstanding leadership

    The Oyo branch of Nigerian Economic Society (NES) has hailed the outgoing President of the Society, Professor Adeola Festus Adenikinju, commending his outstanding leadership and contributions over the past two years.

    Adenikinju, a renowned economist and lecturer at the University of Ibadan, assumed the presidency of the NES two years ago and is set to hand over the reins to a new leadership team during the week-long 66th Annual Conference of NES, scheduled from September 8 to 11 in Abuja.

    A statement by the Oyo NES Chairman, Dr. Alarudeen Aminu, lauded Adenikinju for his transformative leadership, innovative policy engagements, and inclusive approach that elevated the profile of the Society on both national and international fronts.

    He said: “Professor Adeola Festus  Adenikinju, we are proud of your leadership at the helm of NES. Your two-year leadership was marked with unprecedented strides, cutting-edge ideas, bridge-building, and policy initiatives. You carried the banner of the Society and took it a notch higher.”

    Aminu further lauded Professor Adenikinju for fostering constructive dialogue between policymakers, academics, and industry stakeholders, and for promoting greater synergy between economic research and national development goals.

     “You engaged the high and low in mutual exchange of ideas, reinforcing the value of collaboration between policymakers and knowledge-based institutions in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges.”

    He stated that there is increased in induction of Economics graduates into the Society under Adenikinju’s leadership, a development seen as vital for nurturing the next generation of economists and policy thinkers.

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    He however said Adenikinju’s impact will remained indelible in the annals of the society.

    The 66th NES Conference is expected to draw a wide range of participants including policymakers, scholars, industry leaders, and students from across Nigeria and beyond. 

    Themed around practical pathways for Nigeria and Africa’s economic transformation, the conference promises to be a robust platform for dialogue, research sharing, and actionable insights.

    Adenikinju, who served as the 44th President of the Society, is widely respected for his scholarly work and public service, and the Oyo NES predicts even greater national assignments in his future.

    Oyo chairman of the Society, Dr. Adeboye Adeyemo, described Adenikinju as a rare breed academic who combines academic excellence with unparalleled administrative acumen. 

    Adeyemo said: “He is leaving behind a new and invigorated society having championed the establishment of over 25 active State Chapters across the six geopolitical zones and connected the Society to policy makers and decision takers. No doubt, Professor Adenikinju’ s term as President of the Society has been very impactful”.

    Many stakeholders look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Professor Adenikinju and his team as the NES ushers in new leadership.

  • Ondo, Globacom collaborate on digital innovations

    Ondo, Globacom collaborate on digital innovations

    Ondo state government is collaborating with one of the leading telecommunications companies, Globacom, to adopt advanced digital solutions that will enhance governance, education, security, and revenue collection.

    At a meeting with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and top government officials in Akure, Globacom’s Group Lead, Enterprise Business, Adeniyi Odejobi, assured that the collaboration would enhance efficiency and productivity across the state.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa welcomed the initiative, saying Globacom’s initiatives came at the right time for his government’s push for technology-driven administration. “I am proud of the rich array of solutions from the company,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Epidemic looms in Lagos’ largest estate as re-commissioned water project fails

    The governor emphasizes ongoing efforts to integrate digital systems in governance, including the launch of iOndo, an electronic tax collection platform introduced three months ago. The platform allows residents to pay ground rents and other taxes online.

    “Adopting new technologies from Globacom will reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, increase efficiency, and limit human interference in government processes,” he added.

    The governor expressed optimism that the partnership would strengthen digital innovation and socio economic growth in Ondo state governance.

    In his words, Odejobi, explained that Globacom would deploy a Learning Management System (LMS) to benefit secondary and tertiary institutions. The company will also provide Glo Share, its sponsored data service that allows zero rated access to the LMS, enabling students to study online without data charges.

  • Osun 2026: Why I am onward tour – Babayemi

    Osun 2026: Why I am onward tour – Babayemi

    A popular contender for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Osun State, Omooba Dotun Babayemi, has explained that he embarked on tour to the 332 wards across the state in order to know and assess the challenges and needs of the people at the grassroots.

    Besides, Babayemi stressed that his recently concluded month-long local government consultative meetings with leaders and stakeholders of the party, propelled the visit to the wards having seen the degradation at the council level.

    The leading governorship aspirant who is set to cover the 332 wards in the state, expressed the happiness that the tour has enabled him to reach the 100th ward at Okerewe Ward 2, Ile-Ife at the ward of the state APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal.

    He said these while continuing his statewide ward-to-ward visits to Boluwaduro,Boripe and Ife East Local Government areas of the state, assuring that it would bring about transformation to the grassroots if the APC wins the election.

    READ ALSO: Epidemic looms in Lagos’ largest estate as re-commissioned water project fails

    “The visit to wards has been worthwhile as it has enabled one to see what our people are really going through. We are strong in some wards and need to grow stronger in others. Most importantly, It has helped us to measure our strength, discover our weaknesses, and build the unity needed to win the coming governorship election slated for next year and to ensure that President Bola Tinubu is voted for massively during the 2027 election”the aspirant stressed.

    The Gbongan-born Prince maintained that the ward tour would enable an APC administration in the state as from 2026 when the party takes over power, to focus on grassroots development.

    Babayemi added that the party was determined to remain focused and united so as not to be distracted from winning the 2026 state gubernatorial election and ensure the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

    He pointed out that all those currently angling for the ticket of the party in the state were relating well, noting that what was paramount to all of them was ultimate victory of the party in the long run.

    “In Osun, there’s no acrimony in our quest at ousting the ruling party in the state. We are one big family in our party, the APC.The party is a party of progress and structure. There are 12 of us who are currently in the race. But I can assure that there’s no problem amongst us. Rather, our number shows how popular our party is. This message, I pass in all wards that I’ve been to”

    Continuing, he said: “To make sure that our standpoint resonate with our people, all I do is to attend ward meetings that are of our party members and what we do is; we’re informing them that we stand as one. We are united to seamlessly spread the news of the benefits of the economic and socio-economic policies of the federal government down to the level of our people”