The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Olubadan: Council meets today to declare stool vacant, nominate Ladoja as successor

    Olubadan: Council meets today to declare stool vacant, nominate Ladoja as successor

    The Olubadan-in-Council will meet today, Monday, at the Olubadan Palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, to formally declare the Olubadan stool vacant and deliberate on the nomination of a new monarch for Ibadanland.

    According to a meeting notice sent to council members last Thursday, the session will follow the traditional succession process unique to the ancient city. 

    Barring last-minute changes, former Oyo State Governor and next-in-line to the throne, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, is expected to be nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    The nomination, which is expected to be moved and seconded by council members after brief deliberations, will be forwarded to the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters for ratification. 

    Upon confirmation by Governor Seyi Makinde, Ladoja will ascend the throne.

    Though Oba Ladoja has been out of the state since the passing of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, sources said he may have delayed his return to avoid overshadowing the ongoing burial rites of the late monarch. 

    He is, however, expected at today’s meeting, although his absence will not hinder the council’s proceedings, according to Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola.

    Read Also: Olubadan-in-Council to meet Monday on Ladoja’s nomination as next Olubadan

    This marks the first time a nomination meeting will be held at the new Olubadan Palace, as previous ones were conducted at either the Oja’ba Palace or Mapo Hall.

    The Olubadan stool became vacant following the death of Oba Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025, after one year on the throne. 

    His burial rites begin today, with sporting activities scheduled ahead of the final funeral ceremony on Friday, August 8, at the Cathedral of Saint Peters, Aremo, Ibadan.

  • APC chieftain celebrates Aiyedatiwa’s Appeal Court triumph

    APC chieftain celebrates Aiyedatiwa’s Appeal Court triumph

    Chief Gbenga Eleduma, a prominent businessman and stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his  victory at the Appeal Court, which upheld his mandate as the duly elected governor of Ondo State.

    In a statement, Chief Eleduma described the court’s ruling as a powerful affirmation of the overwhelming support Governor Aiyedatiwa received from the people of Ondo State during the election.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa launches ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 movement

    He hailed the verdict as a shining victory for democracy, underscoring the trust placed in Aiyedatiwa’s leadership to propel the state toward a future of growth and prosperity.

    Eleduma commended the governor’s steadfast resilience and unwavering dedication to transformative governance, noting that the legal triumph further strengthens his mandate to fulfill his campaign pledges.

    “This victory belongs not only to Governor Aiyedatiwa but to every Ondo State citizen who cherishes the principles of democracy and the rule of law,” he said.

  • Osun 2026: Kinsmen drum support for Omisore

    Osun 2026: Kinsmen drum support for Omisore

    Kinsmen of the former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore have urged members of the party to support his 2026 Osun State gubernatorial ambition.

    Speaking on behalf of the kinsmen, Hon. Bukola Ojuade told  newsmen over the weekend in Ile-Ife, that Omisore is the leader that Osun State deserves in 2026.

    Ojude said the capacity of Omisore who had served the State as Deputy Governor cannot be ignored when discussing leadership, innovation and development

    He said: “Senator Omisore championed bills and projects that directly benefited the people of Osun State and when he served as the scribe of APC, he helped built party structures across Nigeria, resulting to victory for the party in 2023.

    Read Also: 2027: Omisore downplays coalition, says all members want to be president

    “Omisore’s ambition to contest in the 2026 gubernatorial election is not just his—it is the hope of thousands across the 30 local government areas and the Area Office who are yearning for competent, compassionate, and visionary leadership. He is the most popular among the contestants around now. APC should allow Omisore to pick the ticket to lead the party.”

     Ojude noted that “if Omisore emerges as the flagbearer of APC, game is over for PDP-led administration as he is more qualified and prepared to lead Osun into the future.”

  • Lagos task force impounds 55 commercial vehicles over illegal parking, obstruction

    Lagos task force impounds 55 commercial vehicles over illegal parking, obstruction

    No fewer than 55 commercial vehicles including danfo, mini-buses otherwise called Korope and tricycles popularly known as Keke Marwa were impounded the Lagos State Taskforce for violating the state’s traffic law on illegal parking and obstruction of road.

    The operation aimed at ensuring compliance with the Lagos State traffic Law and restoration of unhindered vehicular movement was carried out at Agege Underpass, roundabout along Ogba Road where commercial buses had caused untold traffic inconveniences to motorists, residents and commuters.

    The operation, led by the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, which extended to Ogba road, Iju and Ishaga road, addressed long-standing complaints about illegal parking and commercial vehicles obstructing traffic around Agege axis.

    The exercise, was initiated in response to observations drawn through the Agency surveillance and Monitoring unit and the Agency’s “See Something, Say Something” feedback mechanism, swiftly cleared the illegally parked vehicles that had made the roads impassable.

    Residents and commuters along this axis expressed relief, noting that the roads, previously impassable, are now free of traffic congestion.

    Read Also: Lagos task force nabs 74 suspects in Lekki

    Akerele explained that the operation was a significant shift towards maintaining order and ensuring motorists spend less travel time on the roads in this area.

    He said the errant drivers would be charged to court for varying traffic offences.

     Akerele assured residents that the Lagos State Taskforce remains committed to sustaining free flow of traffic compliance currently being carried out by the Agency.

    He further urged motorists and commuters to remain compliant with all roads and traffic laws across the State in order to ensure that our roads remain safe and motorable for all at all time.

  • OGIRS embarks on tax sensitisation

    OGIRS embarks on tax sensitisation

    The Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS) has embarked on strategic dialogue and sensitisation on Single Road Tax Stickers (SIRTS) and Single Haulage Fee (SHF) Initiative.

     The initiative was part of a one-day workshop organised by Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) aimed at ensuring tax clarity and ease the burden of multiple taxation on businesses,

    At the event themed: ‘Sensitisation on Single Interstate Road Tax Stickers (SIRTS) and Single Haulage Fee (SHF) Initiative,’ held in Lagos, the Chairman of OGIRS, Mr. Olugbenga Olaleye, explained that the programme was designed to bring together key players from the manufacturing and revenue sectors to deliberate on the opportunities and challenges of implementing  the unified levies across States.

    Olaleye, said that the benefits of SIRTS as a tool to promote ease of movement and curb extortion on Nigerian roads noting that the reforms were designed to streamline road tax administration and reduce the cost of doing business for transporters and manufacturers nationwide.

    Read Also: FCMB Group reports ₦79.3bn profit before tax for H1 2025

     “The SIRTS initiative simplifies interstate road taxes by introducing annual payment for single sticker recognised across all states. This will reduce harassment, improve compliance, and make road transportation more business friendly,” he affirmed.

     He explained that the Single Haulage Fee (SHF) initiative was designed to cover loading and off- loading charges, hinting that the lack of uniformity in laws and rates among States had brought difficulties in the implementation.

     ” The true challenge lies in harmonising the activities of relevant States, Ministries,  Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Transport,  Commerce and Taxation, because without synergy and a unified framework,  SHF implementation will continue to face roadblocks, ” he added.

  • We introduced bus corridors to end disorderly commuting – LAMATA

    We introduced bus corridors to end disorderly commuting – LAMATA

    • By Uyor Esther Ojoshimite

    The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has stated that the introduction of bus corridor to end disorderly commuting in the state.

    The agency reaffirmed its commitment to completing the ongoing Quality Bus Corridor (QBC) project despite minor delays on some construction sites.

    Speaking during a media tour across three active project sites, the Managing Director of LAMATA, Abimbola Akinajo, described the initiative as critical to Lagos State’s vision of building a reliable, integrated, and people-centered transport system.

    Read Also: LAMATA announces 18% increase in BRT fares from Monday

    The inspection team visited Abule-Egba, Iju, and Ikotun currently undergoing development as part of the larger QBC scheme.

    Akinajo noted that the project was beyond building bus terminals or resurfacing roads, noting that it aims to provide essential infrastructure such as bus depots, terminals, dedicated bus lanes, lay-bys, and proper bus stops to replace the current disorderly system where buses pick up passengers indiscriminately.

  • Efon Alaaye Day holds August 20

    Efon Alaaye Day holds August 20

    The 2025 edition of the Efon Alaaye Day 2025, has been scheduled to hold in Efon Alaaye township from the 20th of August, 2025 to 24th of August, 2025 with different activities taking place.

    A statement signed on behalf of the publicity committee by Mr. Kola Ajumobi, revealed that the Efon Day activities will start from Wednesday, 20th of August, 2025 with a Youth Anti-Drug Rally, Medical Outreaches and Social Intervention Programmes.

    The statement reads: ”By Thursday, 21st of August, 2025, Hike and Leisure in the Cloud Fiesta and the Final of Unity Cup Tournament will hold at the Hiking Community.

    Read Also: Efon League elects officers

    ”On Friday, 22nd of August, 2025, there will be a Traditional Parade and Homages as well as the Youth Night/Miss Efon 2025 Cultural Orientation; and by Saturday, 23rd of August, 2025, the Grand Finale tagged: “EfonXtraVaganza 2025” will hold.

    ”On the final day, which is Sunday, 24th August, 2025, there will be an Official Thanksgiving Service at Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, Idagba, Efon Alaaye. Speaking further, Mr Kola Ajumobi said, “natives, friends and well-wishers of Efon Alaaye Kingdom are being expected to converge at the main event Saturday, 23rd August, 2025 to fashion out pathways for Community Development.

     ”The final event on Sunday, according to Ajumobi will also be the climax of the four-day programme holding by 11:00 am at the Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, Efon Alaaye, in Ekiti State.

  • Oba Ogunsanwo to mark 5th coronation anniversary

    Oba Ogunsanwo to mark 5th coronation anniversary

    • Obafunwa, Pinhero, Edu, Obasa, others to receive chieftaincy titles

    The Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo (Telade IV), will mark his fifth coronation anniversary later this month, the organizing committee of the event has said.

    A statement signed by the Organising Committee for anniversary disclosed that a three-day programme for the event will hold between August 15 and 17th, 2025.

    According to the statement, ”the anniversary will be flagged off on Friday August 15th with a two-pronged activity: an empowerment and free medical outreach for Kabiyesi’s Ilara subjects in the morning, as well as Jumat service in the afternoon.

    ”The main coronation anniversary day is slated for Saturday August 16th at the Palace in Ilara. Key highlight of the day will be the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles on seven deserving individuals and couples whose contributions to the development of Ikara Kingdom is immeasurable and who are therefore being installed in commemoration of Alara of Ilara’s fifth anniversary.

    Read Also: Coronation commits to private sector leadership at forum

    The statement added: ”Designated chiefs to be honoured are: Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, who will be decorated as the Balogun of Ilara Kingdom; Surveyor Jelili Kolawole Olayemi, who will be installed as Olotu of Ilara Kingdom and Prof. Kemi Pinhero, who will be honoured as the Baamofin of Ilara Kingdom.

    Others include Ambassador Oluwatoyin Lawal and Mrs Abiodun Lawal who will be installed as Bobagunwa and Yeye Bobagunwa of Ikara Kingdom as well as Dr. Olanrewaju Obasa as Otunba Bobaseye of Ilara Kingdom.

    The rest are Chief Akinyele Oladeji and Mrs Toyin Oladeji who will be installed as Ashipa and Yeye Ashipa of Ilara Kingdom; while Barrister Rotimi Edu and Mrs Olayemi Edu will both be honoured with the chieftaincy titles of Otunba Jokotade and Yeye Otunba Jokotade of Ilara Kingdom.

  • POWA empowers 300 widows, vulnerable police families

    POWA empowers 300 widows, vulnerable police families

    Three hundred widows and indigent women yesterday received succour from the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA).

    The beneficiaries, drawn from across 16 states of the country, were given starter packs, food stuff and other goodies to support their businesses and homes.

    The empowerment event, held at Onikan Stadium in Lagos, was part of activities lined up for this year’s POWA convention.

    Read Also: POWA raises team to engage 12 million women in agribusiness to drive food security

    According to POWA President, Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, the association was committed to ensuring self-sufficiency within police community.

    She said POWA has empowered over 3,000 widows and vulnerable police families, noting that the exercise is carried out three or four times yearly.

  • Kogi Assembly seeks urgent intervention to restore electricity in Ankpa LGA

    Kogi Assembly seeks urgent intervention to restore electricity in Ankpa LGA

    The Kogi State House of Assembly has called for urgent intervention by the state government to restore public electricity supply to Ankpa Local Government Area.

    Hon. Lawal Akus, who represents Ankpa 1 State Constituency, moved the motion during plenary in Lokoja, the state capital, on Friday.

    Akus said Ankpa, one of the most populous and economically significant LGAs in Kogi East, has been in total blackout for over a year.

    He said the prolonged power outage has crippled businesses, endangered healthcare delivery, and worsened insecurity in the area.

    His words: “Ankpa has been in total blackout for over one year, a persistent crisis that represents a serious developmental setback with grave implications for education, healthcare, commerce and public safety.

    “We cannot remain silent while thousands of our constituents continue to suffer. The lack of electricity has caused immense hardship to residents and resulted in crippling losses for small businesses, public institutions, health facilities and security operations.”

    Akus said the area was previously connected to a 33kV line from Otukpo in Benue, but the supply collapsed due to heavy overload on the line which also served Omala and Olamaboro LGAs.

    He said a more viable route from Ajaokuta via Anyigba had been recommended, with temporary improvements made in 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC).

    However, he said the power supply became unstable and eventually deteriorated into another prolonged blackout.

    “It is most disheartening that Ankpa, the commercial hub of Kogi East, and its surrounding communities remain without public electricity, exposing residents to worsening economic hardship and daily suffering,” he said.

    Akus urged the Kogi Ministry of Rural Development to liaise with AEDC to restore power to the affected areas, replace damaged poles and cross arms, and provide transformers and armoured cables in specific locations.

    He also called on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to intervene with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for the completion of the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) in Ankpa, which includes two 7.5MVA injection substations now near completion.

    The motion was seconded by Hon. Alewo Ujah Anthony, who represents Olamaboro Constituency. He appealed for Olamaboro to be included in the intervention plan.

    Other lawmakers who supported the motion include Hon. Sunday Dakku of Bassa, Hon. Bode Ogunmola of Ogori Magongo, Hon. Idris Aliyu of Kogi/Koton-Karfe, Hon. Umar Yahaya of Omala, Hon. Shehu Tijani of Lokoja 1, Hon. Jibrin Abu of Ajaokuta, and Hon. Seyi Bello.

    Abu described the situation as “untold hardship” and wondered how hospitals storing essential drugs and vaccines could continue operations without electricity.

    The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu expressed concern and urged the state government to act swiftly.

    The House unanimously adopted all the prayers and directed the clerk to communicate the resolutions to the executive and relevant agencies for immediate action.