The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Group blasts Aregbesola, warns against anti-Tinubu campaign

    Group blasts Aregbesola, warns against anti-Tinubu campaign

    The Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT) in Ondo State has criticised former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, labelling him an *ingrate* for abandoning the All Progressives Congress (APC) and aligning with opposition leaders.

    Aregbesola, once a staunch ally of President Bola Tinubu, recently joined a new coalition comprising former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.

    The group, which has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform, announced Aregbesola as its interim National Secretary and former Senate President David Mark as its Chairman.

    Last week, Aregbesola visited Ondo State to begin grassroots mobilisation for the ADC in the Southwest.

    However, the GMT has strongly warned him to stop attempting to sway the minds of Ondo residents against President Tinubu.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    In a statement on Tuesday, the GMT’s Director of Media, Oyewamide Ojo, accused Aregbesola of political betrayal, insisting that the people of Ondo remain loyal to President Tinubu and continue to benefit from his administration.

    “Aregbesola has joined the league of quislings in the Southwest. History will remember his ungratefulness and treachery. Those before him who took a similar path are now forgotten or remembered with scorn,” the statement said.

    Reaffirming Ondo State’s support for the President, the group highlighted several federal projects currently underway in the state under Tinubu’s administration.

    These include the dualization of the Akure/Ado-Ekiti road, the Akure/Ondo/Ore road, and the approved dualization of the Ilesa/Akure/Owo/Benin road.

    The group also pointed to social programmes such as the federal student loan scheme, which has benefited students from the state, as well as other government initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

    “The people of our state believe in President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria. They trust his Renewed Hope Agenda and remain committed to his leadership,” the group said.

  • Prophet Alo sympathises with Nigerians over Buhari, Awujale’s demise

    Prophet Alo sympathises with Nigerians over Buhari, Awujale’s demise

    Renowned cleric and Planter of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Prophet Sam Olu Alo, has extended heartfelt condolences to Nigerians over the deaths of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona.

    In a statement issued by his Personal Assistant, Hon. Deji Ogunbusuyi, Prophet Alo described the passing of the two national figures as a significant loss to Nigeria. He noted that both men contributed immensely to the country’s development and left behind legacies that should inspire present and future generations.

    “President Buhari and the Awujale were pillars in their respective spheres. Their leadership and impact will not be forgotten. I pray that God comforts their families and all Nigerians during this trying time,” the cleric stated.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    Recalling that Buhari died in the United Kingdom after a prolonged illness and that the Awujale passed on at the age of 91, Prophet Alo encouraged the nation to take solace in the lives the two leaders lived.

    “As we mourn, let us also celebrate their service. Their legacies should inspire unity, peace, and progress for our beloved country,” he added.

    The cleric also extended sympathies to President Bola Tinubu, Muslim faithful, northerners, and all Nigerians, urging them to remain prayerful and hopeful for the nation’s future.

  • 2027: INEC raises alarm over 295,000 uncollected PVCs in Ondo

    2027: INEC raises alarm over 295,000 uncollected PVCs in Ondo

    …to resume nationwide CVR exercise

    As preparations intensify for the nationwide resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed concern over the high number of uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Ondo State, totalling 295,856.

    INEC, on Monday, announced that the CVR exercise would commence on August 12, 2025, in preparation for the 2027 general elections. The exercise, which begins with online pre-registration via the INEC website, is aimed at capturing new voters who have turned 18 and others who were previously unable to register.

    Speaking during the second quarterly consultative meeting with the media at INEC’s state headquarters in Akure, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, described the situation as alarming.

    She called on the media, political parties, civil society organisations, and traditional rulers to support efforts to improve PVC collection.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    According to Babalola, out of 2,053,061 registered voters in the state, only 1,757,205 have collected their PVCs, leaving 295,856 uncollected. She warned that such a trend could lead to widespread disenfranchisement if not urgently addressed.

    “Voter registration is a fundamental element of the democratic process and the primary means through which eligible citizens are enfranchised,” she said.

    The REC clarified that the upcoming CVR is not an invitation to commence political campaigns, as the official notice of election has yet to be issued by the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

    She outlined that the exercise would target seven categories of individuals: new registrants who have just turned 18, those unable to register previously, persons wishing to transfer their registration, voters with accreditation issues, citizens seeking to update their data, individuals with defaced or lost PVCs, and those collecting unclaimed PVCs.

    “The CVR exercise will continue until August 2026; however, it will be temporarily stopped in December 2025 to facilitate the harvesting and processing of data collected from August to December 2025. After this short break, the exercise will resume early next year.”

    The REC issued a strong warning against double or multiple registrations, citing the Electoral Act 2022, which prescribes a fine of N100,000, one year imprisonment, or both, for offenders.

    “Those already registered must not re-register. It is illegal and punishable under the law,” she cautioned.

    Mrs Babalola, however, said all 19 centres designated for the exercise are ready for commencement, while the INEC Enrolment Devices (IVEDs) required for the exercise are available in sufficient quantity, well labelled, fully charged, and ready for deployment.

    “As we approach the commencement of the CVR I want to use this opportunity to call on all eligible citizens to take advantage of this opportunity to register, update their information, and collect their PVC during the exercise.

    “In the same vein, I urge all political parties, civil society organisations, faith-based groups, youth, women’s groups, and traditional leaders to join us in mobilising the populace for the success of the CVR exercise.

    “A credible voter register is the bedrock of a credible election. Let me conclude by reaffirming INEC’s unwavering commitment to transparency, professionalism, and inclusivity throughout the registration process.”

  • Ibadan to hold 7th Young Artists Art Hub competition

    Ibadan to hold 7th Young Artists Art Hub competition

    The ancient city of Ibadan is set to host the 7th Edition of the Young Artists Art Hub School Competition in collaboration with the National Museum of Unity, Aleshinloye, Ibadan.

    The annual event, convened by Afro-Brazilian and award-winning female artist Olaide Turner-Moyet, will feature 20 public and private secondary schools from across Ibadan competing in visual arts, music, dance, poetry, crafts, and oratory.

    Speaking with journalists, Turner-Moyet said the event is aimed at promoting cultural pride and artistic excellence among the youth. She described the competition as a platform for cultural renaissance and a celebration of African identity.

    Dignitaries expected at the event include Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Segun Olayiwola; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun; and Mrs. Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, Zonal Director (South West) and Curator of the National Museum of Unity.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    Renowned artist and professor, Chief Tunde Odunlade, will chair the event, while Ibadan-based painter Mr. Omofemi Oluwole will be honoured as Artist of the Day. The programme will be anchored by media personality and Prince 89.7FM correspondent, Olawale Ogunbusola.

    Turner-Moyet reaffirmed that the initiative is about encouraging students to take pride in their African heritage and creativity, saying, “The whole idea is to celebrate Africanness—being Black, being proud.”

    “Music, drama, poetry, crafts, these are not just art forms for entertainment only, they are vessels of our identity. This initiative is a continuum of ancestral tools for expressing and appreciating life.”

    She explained that the initiative has been a decade in the making, aiming to instil cultural pride and continuity through creative expression.

    She noted the essence of socialisation, networking and appreciating innateness, adding that the event will greatly help support student participants’ exposure and social networking beyond physical contacts.

    The Young Artists Arthub Competition continues to stand as a beacon of cultural education, innovation, and creative growth for the youth of Ibadan and beyond.

  • APC state chairmen mourn Buhari’s passing

    APC state chairmen mourn Buhari’s passing

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) state chairmen forum has paid tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari. The Forum described him as ‘a towering figure in Nigeria’s political and democratic evolution, whose legacy of integrity, discipline, and selfless service will be remembered for generations’.

    A statement by the Forum’s chair and Lagos State APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, reads, “President Muhammadu Buhari was not just a national leader; he was a symbol of principled leadership and unwavering dedication to the Nigerian project. He inspired millions with his commitment to fighting corruption, promoting transparency, and securing the sovereignty and unity of our nation.”

    The Forum acknowledged Buhari’s pivotal role in shaping the fortunes of the party and leading it to historic electoral victories in 2015 and 2019.

    “His disciplined leadership, frugality in public office, and steadfast belief in the rule of law laid a foundation of accountability and reform in governance.

    READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    “As state chairmen of the party he helped to build, we are forever grateful for his visionary leadership and the trust he placed in the grassroots structures of the APC. His passing is a great loss not only to our party but to the nation as a whole,” the statement added.

    The Forum commiserated with the Buhari family, the people of Katsina State, President Bola Tinubu, and the entire nation, and urged Nigerians to honour the former president’s legacy by upholding the values he stood for.

    Plans are also underway by the party at both national and state levels to organise memorial activities in honour of the late president.

  • Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

    …warns families against putting pressure, unnecessary favours on appointees

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has assigned portfolios to the 16 newly inaugurated commissioners in the state, directing them to immediately assume duty and deliver on the administration’s promises.

    This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, in Akure.

    The appointment of portfolios came less than 24 hours after the commissioners were sworn in at a ceremony held at the International Centre for Culture and Events, Akure.

    According to the statement, the commissioners and their respective ministries are:

    Idowu Ajanaku – Information and Orientation

    Igbekele Ajibefun – Education

    Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye – Infrastructure, Lands and Housing

    Ayodele Akande – Water Resources and Public Sanitation

    READ ALSO: Presidency: FEC postpones special session in honour of Buhari

    Alabi Johnson – Energy and Mineral Resources

    Amidu Takuro – Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs

    Adewale Akinlosotu – Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations

    Seun Abosede Osamaye – Women Affairs and Social Development

    Tob Loko – Environment

    Olaolu Akindolire – Budget and Economic Planning

    Sunday Olajide – Physical Planning and Urban Development

    Omoyofunmi Segun Henry – Youths and Sports Development

    Bola Ademuwagun – Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives

    Leye Akinola – Agriculture and Forestry

    Banji Awolowo Ajaka – Health

    Adesoji Afolabi – Culture and Tourism

    During the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the appointees to hit the ground running and uphold the administration’s commitment to good governance.

    He also issued a stern warning to their associates: “To your family members, friends, and associates, I offer congratulations and a word of caution. While we appreciate their support, they must not put the new appointees under undue pressure by soliciting unnecessary favours.”

    He reminded the commissioners that their responsibilities extend across the entire state, not just their local constituencies.

  • Habeeb Okunola mourns Buhari, Awujale

    Habeeb Okunola mourns Buhari, Awujale

    High Chief Habeeb Olalekan Okunola, the Akosin of Yoruba Land, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the Awujale of Ijebu Kingdom, Oba Sikiru Adetona, both of whom died on Sunday, July 13.

    In a statement signed by the Lead Head of CINI Holdings, Chief Okunola paid tribute to Buhari’s legacy, describing him as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s political history.

    He highlighted Buhari’s leadership as both a military ruler (1983–1986) and a democratically elected president (2015–2023), noting that his dedication to integrity and anti-corruption efforts distinguished him among Nigeria’s leaders.

    Chief Okunola also mourned the death of Oba Adetona, calling both losses a significant blow to the nation.

    He emphasised that their contributions to governance and traditional leadership will be remembered for generations.

    READ ALSO: Presidency: FEC postpones special session in honour of Buhari

    “Former President Muhammadu Buhari would be greatly missed, especially during these challenging times. As an incorruptible leader, he worked diligently to ensure political and economic stability in Nigeria. His administration invested in modern infrastructure that benefited the nation immensely. I had the honour of receiving both of my national honours under his patronage, a testament to his ability to recognise and reward hard work and talent. His passing has created a void that will take time to heal.”

    In a separate announcement, Chief Okunola extended his condolences to the people of Ijebu, urging them to remain resilient and composed during this difficult period. He reflected on the legacy of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who ascended to the throne at the tender age of 26 in 1960 and passed away at the age of 91.

    He stated, “Kabiyesi Awujale is an iconic figure in Nigeria’s cultural and political sphere. Under his guidance, Ijebu thrived and experienced remarkable growth, notably through the elevation of the Annual Ojude-Oba festival, which has gained international acclaim. I encourage the people of Ijebu to celebrate rather than mourn, for Oba Sikiru led a life full of impactful contributions, and the lives he touched are countless.”

    Chief Okunola concluded his statement by acknowledging that the deaths of both leaders have plunged Nigeria into a period of mourning. He called upon the people of Daura, Katsina, and the residents of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State to remain strong as they navigate through this profound loss, praying for the strength and fortitude to bear the irreplaceable absence of these esteemed leaders.

  • Awujale left a precious legacy, placed Ijebu on World map – Ibori

    Awujale left a precious legacy, placed Ijebu on World map – Ibori

    Former Delta state governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, on Sunday commiserated with the family, friends, associates, subjects and the government and people of Ogun State over the transition of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, saying the nation and most especially the Yoruba race has lost a rare gem and highly respected monarch.

    The first class monarch joined his ancestors on Sunday, at the age of 91 a few hours after the announcement of the death of his longtime friend and former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

    In a statement he signed, Ibori said the late Awujale was a man of peace who, during his lifetime, did everything humanly possible to promote the Yoruba tradition across the globe.

    READ ALSO: Presidency: FEC postpones special session in honour of Buhari

    Ibori, who said the highly respected monarch will be sorely missed for his fatherly role and advice, added that the Awujale offered him wise counsel and words of encouragement during his travails.

    “On behalf of my family, I wish to express our sincere condolences on the passing away of one of our illustrious traditional rulers, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland, Ogbagba Agbatewole. He would surely be missed by all”

    “His leadership role in fostering peace among his subjects, promoting Yoruba culture and tradition and placing his town, Ijebu, on the world map will forever be remembered. He lived and left a precious heritage worthy of emulation.”

    “I pray that Almighty God finds a peaceful resting place for the soul of the late Awujale and grant the royal family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

  • Buhari dedicated his life to national service — APC chieftain Mumuni

    Buhari dedicated his life to national service — APC chieftain Mumuni

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader who devoted his life to the service of Nigeria.

    Mumuni, who contested the 2011 Lagos State governorship election under the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), made the remarks in a statement issued by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, on Tuesday.

    He praised Buhari’s unwavering commitment to democracy, integrity, and national unity, noting that the late president left an indelible mark on the nation and inspired many through his vision for stability and growth.

    Mumuni added that Buhari’s death serves as a solemn reminder of life’s fragility and the need for national unity in moments of collective grief.

    He said, “It is with profound sorrow and an aching heart when I hear of the demise of our esteemed former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who transitioned from this earthly realm on this monumental loss reverberates across our nation, uniting family, friends, and the entire citizenry of Nigeria in a shared moment of reflection, grief, and memorialization.

    READ ALSO: Presidency: FEC postpones special session in honour of Buhari

    “Former President Muhammadu Buhari dedicated his life to the service of our great nation. His unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy, integrity, and national unity left an indelible mark on the hearts of many Nigerians. He was a leader whose vision forged pathways towards stability and growth, inspiring a generation to pursue excellence in governance and public service.

    “As we come to terms with this heartbreaking news, I extend my deepest condolences to Buhari’s beloved family, who have lost a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. In this time of mourning, I pray that you find strength in the cherished memories shared and the legacy he leaves behind, embodying the spirit of resilience and patriotism.

    “To his friends and associates, I understand the pain of losing a confidant and mentor. Your loss is felt across the landscape of our nation, where his guidance and leadership have impacted countless lives. May you find solace in the love and support of those around you during this challenging time.

    “To our fellow Nigerians, the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of unity in times of sorrow. Let us honor his memory by coming together as a nation, transcending our differences, and fostering a spirit of collaboration and love that he so tirelessly championed. As we mourn together, let us also celebrate his life and the contributions he made to our nation’s narrative.

    “I also extend my heartfelt thoughts to the current President of Nigeria, who has the immense responsibility of guiding our nation during this transitional period. We pray for wisdom and strength, so that you may lead us towards a future imbued with the ideals and aspirations that Former President Buhari envisioned for our beloved Nigeria.

    “In this time of grief, let us not forget the power of hope and prayer. We urge all Nigerians to join hands in prayer for the peace of Buhari’s soul and the comfort of his loved ones. May our collective prayers uplift and fortify the entire nation as we navigate the journey ahead, fostering an environment of harmony and understanding that he believed in deeply.

    “As we reflect upon the legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, let us pledge to carry forward his vision for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria. Together, we can continue to build upon the foundations he laid, ensuring that his contributions echo through the ages.ay his soul rest in perfect peace, and may Nigeria continue to thrive in unity and strength”.

  • Jandor hosts Law School’s best graduating female student, advocates support for indigents

    Jandor hosts Law School’s best graduating female student, advocates support for indigents

    Jandor Advocates Pro-Education Policy as Scholarship Beneficiary Emerges Best Female Law School Graduate

    The Lead Visioner of the Lagos4Lagos Movement and 2023 governorship candidate, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (Jandor), has called for robust government policies to support the education of indigent students, stressing the need to ease the burden on struggling parents.

    Adediran made the appeal while hosting Miss Maryam Lawal, a graduate of Lagos State University (LASU), who recently emerged as the 2025 Best Graduating Female Student and Second Overall Best Graduating Student of the Nigerian Law School.

    Miss Lawal, a graduate of LASU’s Faculty of Law (Common and Islamic Law), stood out among 7,134 students called to the Bar on July 10. She earned eight awards, placing her among the top achievers in Nigeria’s legal education sector.

    A beneficiary of the Jandor Scholarship Foundation, which Adediran established in 2017, Miss Lawal’s success highlights the impact of sustained educational support. According to Adediran, the foundation has awarded scholarships to no fewer than 100 indigent students annually across Nigerian universities.

    Expressing pride in Maryam’s achievement, Adediran urged state governments and well-meaning individuals to emulate such support systems and help lighten the educational burden for many underprivileged students.

    Adediran said, “As a matter of fact, some of us would not have been where we are today if not for education. We have the duty to see how many people we can also pull up. 

    Read Also: Nobody can stop Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 – Jandor

    “Outside education, I don’t know what I would have become because I grew up in the Mushin community, education did a lot in where I am today.

    “We do need good government policy that will make education affordable to the poorest of the people for our society to be better, and easy to govern.” 

    Adediran, who recalled that seven years ago Maryam was one of the many names of the foundation’s admission list, said that her hard work had single her out to make everyone proud.

    “Maryam has been able to write the name of her parents in gold because of her hardwork and little support from our foundation,” he said.

    Adediran announced that he had facilitated employment for Maryam with Wole Olanipekun and Co law firm, if she decides to take up the offers.

    According to him, the root of major problems facing the country at the moment is lack of education and ignorance.

    “We must prioritise education. It is key, it is the bedrock of our survival, it is the foundation upon which we can build so many things and solve so many problems even leadership,” he said.

    According to him, educated Nigerians should not leave the political space for people who do not understand the importance of education and what it takes to govern a society.

    Responding, Miss Lawal, who applauded Adediran for his dedication to helping the poor, said that she got his scholarship at 100 Level in 2018, saying “this helped me a lot.”

    Lawal, who noted that many indigent students were not finding it difficult to get education because of its high cost, advocated more scholarship schemes for those that could not afford education.

    “I hope that we have more scholarship opportunities and people who are actually in need of them get it. All state governments should also invest in education and give bursaries to help the needy,” Lawal said.

    Speaking, Mr and Mrs Hakeem Lawal, parents of the beneficiary, commended Adediran for staying with the family.

    Lady Funke Ijayekunle, the Central Coordinator, Lagos4Lagos Movement, commended the unwavering commitment of Adediran to supporting the weak with his resources, saying Lawal had done the foundation among the beneficiaries of the 2018 scholarship.