The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • I didn’t declare myself winner of APC primary in Ibadan North, Reps aspirant Olaleye clarifies

    I didn’t declare myself winner of APC primary in Ibadan North, Reps aspirant Olaleye clarifies

    Aspirant for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Olusegun Olaleye, has denied a media report alleging he declared himself winner of the party’s primary election.

    Reacting to the publication by a national newspaper, Olaleye described the report as false, malicious, and a calculated attempt by political detractors to damage his reputation and sow discord between him and the party leadership.

    In a statement personally signed by him, the former lawmaker clarified that no primary election was held in Ibadan North. He noted that he and eight other aspirants had previously issued a joint statement affirming that no valid election took place.

    “It is laughable, utterly wicked, and malicious for anyone to claim that I declared myself winner of an election that didn’t hold,” he stated. “How can I make such a claim after jointly signing a document confirming no election occurred on Sunday, July 20, 2025?”

    Olaleye attributed the report to what he described as “desperate undemocratic actors” bent on dividing the party, adding that the crux of the crisis was the alleged manipulation of the delegate list to favour a particular aspirant.

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    “Our protest against the undemocratic manipulation of the delegate list was well-documented and formally communicated to the party leadership. My supporters and I were even targeted for attacks, but we remained committed to peace,” he said.

    Reaffirming his loyalty to the APC and its democratic values, Olaleye cited his track record as a founding member of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) as evidence that he would never subvert internal party rules.

    He expressed optimism that the APC leadership at both state and national levels would address the concerns raised by aggrieved aspirants, insisting that the integrity of the party must not be compromised.

    “I urge the party leadership, members of our great party in Ibadan North, and the general public to disregard any unauthorised publication falsely claiming I declared myself winner. Such mischief has no basis and does not reflect my principles as a true democrat,” he said.

    He also called on those using “crude tactics and violence” in pursuit of their political ambitions to retrace their steps, warning that imposing unpopular candidates on the people could endanger the future of the party.

    Hon. Olusegun Olaleye is one of ten aspirants vying for the APC ticket to represent Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

  • Ekiti APC should foster equity, says group

    Ekiti APC should foster equity, says group

    Some aggrieved leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ado-Ekiti Local Government of Ekiti State have petitioned the national chairman over ‘‘unconstitutional directives by Acting State Chairman, Sola Elesin, and Ado-Ekiti Local Government Chair, Mike Akinleye.’’

    In a letter by Chief Tajudeen Gidado and Falaj Doy, the stakeholders accused the two party officials of violating APC Constitution and attempting to stifle internal democracy ahead the governorship poll.

    They claimed that following release of the election timetable by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),  Elesin had directed stakeholders to support only one aspirant and threatened to sanction any member who associates with other aspirants.

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    They alleged the directive was also issued at a meeting with stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti, and subsequently reinforced by Akinleye, who  summoned ward chairmen and mandated them to convert their weekly ward meetings into campaign gatherings for one aspirant.

    Both denied the allegation and reiterated their commitment to party unity, cohesion and internal democracy.

    The aggrieved petitioners described the development as a “gross violation” of APC Constitution, particularly Article 7 (viii) and (ix), which emphasise internal democracy, representative participation, and observance of rule of law.

    “These actions are alien to the culture of APC and can destroy the harmony among members,” the letter said.

    The stakeholders decried attempts to deny members their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and association, warning such conduct could create disaffection and portray APC as authoritarian.

    Describing their actions as “antithetical to APC ethos,” it urged the national chairto intervene and call them to order.

  • Ondo unveils 10-point blueprint for women empowerment

    Ondo unveils 10-point blueprint for women empowerment

    Ondo State Government has affirmed its commitment to the welfare of women, with focus on their economic empowerment.

    Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Oluwaseun Osamaye, said this yesterday in Akure while unveiling a 10-point O’Datiwa Women Initiative Blueprint.

    She said the 10-point blueprint programme was part of a broader effort by the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa administration to prioritise women’s welfare and development.

    Osamaye said the state government came up with the initiative to provide women with access to opportunities and resources as a strategy to ensure the female gender thrived in areas.

    The commissioner hailed Governor Aiyedatiwa for fulfilling his electioneering promise to women by coming up with life-touching programmes that cut across areas of women endeavours.

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    She said the 10-point blueprint programme was also to ensure the implementation of ‘Our Ease’ agenda of Governor Aiyedatiwa for women.

    She listed the programmes to include skill up a woman initiative, free training, skills and acquisition development, as well as empowerment, noting that female students in higher institutions were also accommodated.

    Osamaye said the blueprint became necessary to guide the operations of the ministry to achieve the goals and visions of the governor for women, girls and the vulnerable.

  • Lagos boosts emergency medical services

    Lagos boosts emergency medical services

    Lagos State Government has announced a major upgrade to its emergency medical response system, including the introduction of motorbike and water ambulances to improve response time in hard-to-reach areas.

    This was revealed yesterday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, during a media engagement titled: “LASAMBUS: Highlighting Impact, Improving and Sustaining Response”, held in Alausa, Ikeja, where beneficiaries gave moving accounts of how Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) saved their lives and those of their loved ones.

    Ogboye said the new expansion plans were part of the state’s strategy to address challenges hampering prompt emergency care delivery such as gridlock, poor descriptions of incident locations, crowd interference and vandalism of ambulances.

    He said the state would deploy 10 motorcycle ambulances, revamp its water ambulance fleet for riverine communities and engage private helicopter services for air medical evacuation in critical cases. “Emergency medical response is more than just transportation; it’s about stabilising lives en route to definitive care,” Ogboye said.

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    He called on the public to support LASAMBUS operations by respecting emergency protocols.

    “Ambulance teams are not adversaries; they are your allies. When you see an ambulance, give way, whether it is empty or not. And stop vandalising emergency vehicles, they are built to save lives,” he said.

    Ogboye gave an overview of LASAMBUS’ evolution from four Peugeot wagons in 2001 under then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu to a service now boasting 36 ambulances across four operational bases, more than 190 trained personnel and advanced mobile ICU capabilities.

    In 2024 alone, LASAMBUS responded to over 8,900 emergency calls, and has already handled nearly 3,000 cases in the first half of 2025.

    He noted that the agency ‘’has recorded extremely low mortality in transit, often just one case annually,” which he attributed to the clinical expertise of its team.

    The permanent secretary said 60 per cent of the emergency calls handled in 2024 were trauma-related, road accidents, falls and violence; 25 per cent were medical emergencies such as cardiac arrests and seizures; and 15 per cent involved obstetric and public health cases.

    Director of LASAMBUS, Mrs. Beatrice Makinde, said poor road networks, vague caller directions and unhelpful crowds often delayed operations.

    “We sometimes spend valuable time trying to navigate through traffic or find a location because callers don’t give accurate directions,” she said. “People also tend to gather at scenes instead of clearing the way for responders.”

    Makinde reiterated the agency’s commitment to its life-saving mission despite these challenges. “Every minute counts in emergency care. That’s why we need every Lagosian to understand that they have a role to play,” she said.

    The event’s highlight came from first-hand testimonies by residents who shared their life-saving encounters with LASAMBUS.

    Dr. Ogboye hailed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision and political will for the strides made so far.

  • Omoworare joins Osun governorship race

    Omoworare joins Osun governorship race

    Senator Babajide Omoworare, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to former President Muhammadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters, yesterday joined 2026 Osun State governorship race.

    Omoworare, who joined the race on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), also presented his manifesto to the party leadership and vowed to return the party to power.

    Addressing the Chairman of the party, Tajudeen Lawal and members, Omoworare said he had never lost any election, and was returning to the scene with renewed vigour to rebuild Osun State.

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    “I have contested five times and I’ve never lost. Even when they tried to rig me out, I went to court and won. By God’s grace, I am a five-star general in politics,” he declared.

    He criticised the current state of infrastructure and governance in Osun, referencing statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics that place the state at the bottom of food inflation rankings in the Southwest.

    “I am a progressive to the core. My great-grandfather was ‘Afenifere’. My maternal grandfather, the Ooni of Ife, was the first governor of the Western Region. Politics is in my blood. PDP did not win Osun. APC lost it. But we will not lose again. I’m here to help us get it right.”

    Lawal described Omoworare as an astute politician and a core progressive.

  • Ogun West unveils plans to organise political summit

    Ogun West unveils plans to organise political summit

    Following alleged marginalisation of their area since the creation of Ogun State on February 3, 1976, leaders of Ogun West are making efforts to strengthen the formulation and implementation of strategic communal policies aimed at promoting economic prosperity, political stability and social justice for the people.

    Key stakeholders, on the platform of Yewa People Development Council, led by the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, have inaugurated Yewa Political Summit Committee (YPDC), to midwife a united front for the people of Ogun West through a well-attended political summit.

    YPDC is a not-for-profit organisation approved and registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with Certificate Number 160967 dated June 30, 2021.

    The Chairman of the Media Sub-Committee of the Summit Organising Committee, Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, said the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Rahamon Bello, is the chairman of YPDC’s Governing Council. Pastor Obafemi Akinola FCA is the secretary-general.

    Also, Justice Mobolaji Ojo has been appointed as chairman of the Political Summit Committee.  Secretary is Dr. Morakinyo Ololade.

    The purpose of YPDC, The Nation learnt, is to prevent social exclusion and promote social inclusion and community strengthening through supporting, developing and promoting unity within and among Yewa communities and Yewa-based community- managed organisations.

    The committee will focus on community development, social inclusion and community-focused services as well as promote effective development of Yewaland.

    To enhance and speed up the process of assimilation and harness the current political gains in Yewaland, the summit, which is slated for the later part of this third quarter, will bring groups in Yewaland together in a political summit to chart the way forward.

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    with an eye on 2027.

    Yewaland Political Summit Committee was formally established recently by the YPDC with terms of reference as follows: To organise an all-inclusive one-day political summit for Yewaland on the thrust of charting the way to harmony towards the contest for Ogun governorship seat in 2027.

    The summit is also aimed at examining in all ramifications, the factors and circumstances which directly, indirectly or remotely, contributed to the inability of candidates of Yewa extraction to clinch the coveted office of the governor of Ogun State since the creation of the state in 1976.

    The forum will also agree on a Pan-Yewa agenda to be subscribed to by Yewa sons and daughters aspiring to high political offices.

    It will also set up modality for strategic discussion on harnessing and harmonising interests on the political landscape in Yewaland.

    Dr. Bamgbose said: “The committee will determine and invite the delegates that will discuss the role effective political leadership can play in addressing the challenge, share experience on how to develop the requisite political harmony that can lead Yewaland to take her rightful position, and reflect on how to build the critical political understanding among players necessary for sustainable political opportunities.

    “The committee will also chart the way forward towards implementing the output of such a summit.”

    He noted that the YPDC would work together with the Yewa Traditional Council in its activities.

    “As such, the roles and interface of YTC members in the drive of Yewaland must be a focus of the summit as well,” Dr. Bamgbose said in an interview.

  • Aspirant complains of intimidation

    Aspirant complains of intimidation

    A governorship aspirant in Ogun State, Mr. Abayomi Hunye, yesterday complained about intimidation by agents and supporters of rivals.

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain said unnecessary pressures were being mounted on him to drop his ambition without justification.

    The Abayomi Hunye Team, in a statement, said some traditional rulers and opinion leaders had been recruited to create hurdles for him to withdraw from the race.

    The group’s spokesman, Koye Ijaoye, said Hunye was exercising his fundamental human right to seek elective office, adding that he was qualified to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun in 2027.

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    He said Hunye had been a long standing advocate of zoning to Ogun West in the spirit of fairness, equity and justice.

    Ijaoye said he had contested twice before and accepted his fate after losing the primary election, adding that he did not rock the boat.

    He said Hunye was qualified to govern Ogun, having worked in the state in the last six years.

    Ijaoye says the aspirant, who retired as a director in Lagos State Civil Service, is loved by his people, who are also emotionally attached to his aspiration to preside over the government of continuity from 2027.

  • LASPA charges operators of hospitality business, event centres on parking regulations

    LASPA charges operators of hospitality business, event centres on parking regulations

    As part of efforts to mitigate traffic congestion on Lagos roads and further promote a model parking culture, the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA), has concluded arrangements to commence enforcement on event centres, hotels and night clubs across the State without valid parking permit. 

    The General Manager, LASPA, Mrs. Adebisi Adelabu, gave the hint on Monday, stressing that it is mandatory for all event centres, hotels and night clubs operating in Lagos State to ensure compliance with the State Parking Regulations and obtain the necessary parking permit.

    Adelabu noted that part of the provisions of the Lagos State Parking Authority laws is that all business/service providers and operators in the hospitality industry should register with LASPA and obtain a valid parking permit for effective parking control and management of traffic.

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    She informed that the importance of effective parking management in curbing traffic congestion and maintaining safety and order on the State roads, especially in areas with high vehicular and pedestrian traffic, cannot be over emphasized.

    While stressing that LASPA, has held various engagements with the management of the different associations in charge of hotels, night clubs and event centres in Lagos State, to sensitise them on the need to comply with the state parking regulations, she however, informed that many of them are still defaulting.

    She urged all owners and operators of hotels, night clubs and event centres, to take this warning as a final notice to ensure full compliance as the Authority will soon commence a comprehensive enforcement on defaulters of the State Parking 

    Regulations. 

    Adelabu further emphasized that LASPA will not tolerate non-compliance with any of the parking regulations adding, that any facility that continues to operate without a valid parking permit will be sanctioned.

  • Lagos Youth Skills Day: Mosadoluwa honoured for championing youth empowerment

    Lagos Youth Skills Day: Mosadoluwa honoured for championing youth empowerment

    • …urges youths to embrace skills

    The Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) hosted the 2025 edition of Lagos Youth Skills Day during the week in Ikeja, Lagos, bringing together students, private sector leaders, and education stakeholders in a shared push to promote technical and vocational education among young Nigerians.

    Coordinated by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Education, Comrade Giwa Murtala Moore, the event featured inspiring testimonials and renewed calls for youth empowerment through hands-on skills acquisition.

    A major highlight was the keynote address by Hon. Dr. Saheed Mosadoluwa Abdullahi, CEO of Harmony Garden and Estate Development Ltd, who shared his inspiring journey from working as a bricklayer to becoming a successful real estate entrepreneur. 

    His story resonated deeply with the audience, as he urged youths to embrace vocational training as a viable path to financial freedom and career growth.

    “Skills change lives,” Dr. Mosadoluwa declared, noting that technical expertise laid the foundation for his achievements, including projects like the acclaimed Lekki Aviation Town Estate developed by his firm, Harmony Gardens.

    In recognition of his dedication to youth development and technical education, LASTVEB presented him with an Award of Recognition. 

    The award acknowledged his ongoing support for skills-based mentorship and empowerment initiatives.

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    The Executive Secretary of LASTVEB, Mrs. Moronke Azeez, commended the growing interest in technical colleges across Lagos, attributing the trend to increased awareness of the value of vocational skills in today’s job market. 

    She emphasized the need for deeper collaboration between the government and the private sector to scale skill development programmes.

    In his closing remarks, Dr. Mosadoluwa expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged continued support for youth-focused initiatives.

    “This recognition is more than a personal milestone,” he said. “It’s a call to action for other business leaders to invest in the next generation. Together, we can empower youths with the tools they need to succeed.”

    The event concluded with a shared commitment by participants to foster stronger public-private partnerships aimed at equipping Nigerian youths with the practical skills required for a self-reliant and prosperous future.

  • I never threatened Obi, says Okpebholo

    I never threatened Obi, says Okpebholo

    • Restriction order undemocratic, unacceptable, declares ADC

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has denied issuing any threat to Anambra State former governor, Peter Obi.

    He said he only stressed the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically-exposed p ersons, to notify and seek security clearance from him before embarking on any public engagement within the state.

    The Edo governor said it was his constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of residents and visitors alike.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo said his duty included ensuring adequate security measures were put in place during high-profile visits or events that might attract large crowd or media attention.

    He said when such protocols were ignored; they created serious security vulnerabilities not only for the visitor, but also for citizens who might be caught in avoidable threats.

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    The statement said: “Governor Okpebholo’s position is particularly relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.

    “Edo State has witnessed its share of these tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and killing of clergy in recent years. Public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels, to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger.

    “The governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in security intelligence and moral responsibility.

    “Furthermore, the governor’s concerns should not be twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points. The state government will not fold its arms and allow politically- motivated activities to endanger lives. We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.

    “Governor Okpebholo is committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State for all. His administration is working to address the insecurity it inherited, and his call for coordination and orderliness should be seen as a measure of responsible governance, not hostility.

    ‘’Edo State Government will continue to welcome well-meaning Nigerians, provided appropriate security and procedural protocols are respected.’’

    African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the restriction order placed on the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi, describing it as unacceptable.

    ADC’s National Spokesperson, Mallam Bolaji Abdulahi, said this yesterday in Abuja during a news conference.

    He said that the pronouncements credited to Governor Monday Okpebholo that Obi or opposition leaders were not welcome in their state was undemocratic.

    “This is not democratic and it’s a very dangerous pattern. Nigeria is a free country, and every citizen of Nigeria has the right to go anywhere in this country.

    “We don’t need a visa in our country. We don’t need anybody’s permission to go to any part of our country,” he said.

    Abdullahi stated that ADC believed that it could only get worse, if it’s not nipped in the bud.

    “We in ADC are alarmed; we are worried that we have not even started big political activities.

    “We have not started campaigns and already our governors are saying that some leaders of our party are not welcome in their states,” he said.

    According to him, no state belongs to any governor but the people, noting: “We will go  anywhere we want in Nigeria. Nigeria is a free country.’’