The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Osun First Lady to reactivate laws in tackling child labour

    Osun First Lady to reactivate laws in tackling child labour

    The First Lady of Osun State, Mrs. Titilola Adeleke, has vowed to reactivate laws and partner with security operatives to tackle the menace of child labour in the state.

    Speaking on Thursday in Osogbo capital of Osun State during the 2025 World Day Against Child Labour organised by Accel Africa Project for five communities in Ife North, Ife South and Obokun Local Government Areas of the state, disclosed that her office will ensure implementation of policies on violence against children.

    Mrs Adeleke, who was represented by the Director, Gender Affairs, Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare, Mrs. Lola Adewale, promised to study the action plan submitted by Osun communities aided by Accel Africa and ensure its enforcement.

    Read Also: Eight Osun communities benefit from NYSC medical outreach

    “In Osun, we have laws and policies that frown at violence against children. The office of the First Lady, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Affairs, has been going around schools to sensitise against sexual and gender-based violence and also ensure the elimination of child labour.

    She said, “I want to appreciate the organisers of this programme because what we see every day in society on child labour is nothing to write home about, but we are trying our best to ensure that the menace against children and women generally is eradicated.”

    Earlier, the project officer, Accel Africa Project, Lydia Eke, said children in the five communities lacked access to quality education, adding that “These communities have developed community action plans towards the elimination of child labor in their communities, and these plans have already been presented to the state government for its support.”

    “The recurring gaps we noticed in these five communities are in their schools. A lot of these communities don’t have good school structures; some have schools without teachers.”

  • Respect your oath, culture and tradition of our forebears, Olowu tells Yoruba Obas

    Respect your oath, culture and tradition of our forebears, Olowu tells Yoruba Obas

    The Olowu of Kuta, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Hammed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, Tegbosun III, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to honour the oaths of office they took and remain committed to upholding the customs and traditions of their forebears.

    In a statement issued by his media office on Friday, Oba Makama emphasised that the core responsibility of an Oba is to be the custodian of culture and tradition, not to abandon it in favour of personal or religious preferences.

    The monarch’s remarks followed a recent statement by Justice Phillips Akinside of the Ogun State High Court, who declared that any traditional ruler who voluntarily ascends the throne through cultural processes must accept the accompanying rites and customs, including burial traditions, even after death.

    Oba Makama commended the judge’s position, saying it aligns with his long-standing view that Yoruba monarchs must operate within the framework of the cultural institution they represent.

    “Obas who are not ready to abide by the dictates of their office should respectfully step down, rather than desecrate the institution with careless remarks or actions,” he stated.

    The Olowu further noted that no Oba in Yorubaland is crowned in a mosque or church, but through traditional rites, which they solemnly swore to uphold during their coronation.

    Read Also: Lagos to amend ‘Obas, Chiefs Law’ to curb land grabbing, title abuse

    He urged Yoruba traditional rulers to refrain from actions or utterances that could undermine the sacredness of the Obaship institution, stressing that upholding culture and tradition is not optional, but a solemn duty tied to their office.

    Oba Makama said, “There’s a ductum is law, which says, ‘Violenti non fit injuria, ‘ which simply translates to the fact that you cannot complain once the details of what you’re subscribing to have been spelt to you beforehand.

    Justice Akinside, who was the keynote speaker at the fifth Chief Kehinde Sofola Memorial Bar Lecture, organised by the Nigerian Bar Association, Sagamu branch on Wednesday, said, “The Obas have no right or legal right to change the tradition they have voluntarily come into.”

    He explained that the same customs that guide the selection, nomination, and installation of an Oba should equally apply to their burial.

    According to him, “One cannot become a traditional ruler in accordance with the customs of the land and later reject those same customs. Religious freedom exists under the 1999 Constitution, but once an individual chooses to enter a traditional institution, they cannot claim an infringement of that freedom when the rites of that institution apply.”

    Justice Akinside argued that accepting the role of an Oba is a voluntary act, and by doing so, the individual implicitly agrees to uphold and be governed by the associated traditions, including burial rituals.

     He likened rejecting those customs later to attempting to “change the goalpost in the middle of the match.”

    It would be recalled that some Obas in Yorubaland have been campaigning against burying traditional rulers according to the customs and rites, while some have deviated from the tradition and culture which they swore to uphold.

  • 1,500 schools honour Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele with educational visionary leader award

    1,500 schools honour Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele with educational visionary leader award

    More than 1,500 schools under the League of Muslim School Proprietors (LEAMSP), Lagos Chapter, have honoured Oloye Saheed Oladele, Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, with the prestigious Educational Visionary Leader of the Year award.

    The award was presented to the Chairman/CEO of Erudite Group of Schools during the 2025 LEAMSP Proprietors’ Summit held in Lagos on Thursday, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education in Nigeria.

    Oloye Oladele’s Erudite Group of Schools has earned national acclaim for consistently achieving top results in international examinations.

    Speaking at the event, Alhaji A. Waahid Obalakun, National President of LEAMSP (Lagos Chapter), commended Oladele for his deep commitment to educational excellence, noting that his schools have placed Nigeria on the global academic map.

    Read Also: Oyo APC governorship hopeful tours Ogbomoso zone

    In his remarks, Oloye Oladele expressed gratitude for the recognition and urged governments at all levels to view private school proprietors as strategic partners in advancing the education sector.

    He highlighted the crucial role they play, noting that in the last 15 years, school proprietors have been dependable employers of fresh graduates, helping to mitigate the effects of rising youth unemployment.

    The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, was represented at the event by Hon. Dr. Jubreel Abdulkareem, lawmaker representing Agege II.

    Other dignitaries in attendance included Dr. Sulaiman Ogunmuyiwa, Director of Quality Assurance at the Lagos State Ministry of Education; Mr. A. Rahman Adedigba, Executive Director of Perk Hills; Mr. A. Wasiu Ayoola, General Manager of Herverk Leadership Academy, among several others.

  • Gunmen kill father, son, two others in Kwara

    Gunmen kill father, son, two others in Kwara

    • 12-year-old girl abducted

    Suspected kidnappers yesterday killed a father, son and two other persons in Kwara state.

    Spokesperson of the Kwara State Police Command, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the incident occurred in the early hours in Patigi LGA of the state.

    She said: “At about 0130am, armed men attacked Mari and Lile villages via Lade, killing three persons Timothy Paul, 35, in Mari village, and Alhaji Abdullahi Shehu, 51 alongside his 22-year-old son, Muhammad in Lile village.

    “Investigations have begun to apprehend the actors behind this dastardly act. In a separate incident, gunmen invaded Aiyetoro Fulani Camp and abducted 12-year-old Hassana Abdullahi, daughter to Mr Abdullahi Jowuro. The scene of the crime was secured and documented.

    In response, joint tactical teams comprising police operatives, vigilantes, and local hunters have been deployed to conduct bush combing and rescue operations.

    “The command remains committed to public safety and urges residents to remain alert and report suspicious activity promptly.”

    READ ALSO: Why is Nasir El-Rufai so desperate?

    Also, gunmen numbering about four suspected to be kidnappers have killed a-45 year old transporter and farm produce merchant, Alhaji Dauda Isma’il in Kwara state.

    The gunmen on Sunday stormed the residence of the merchant in Takare area of Okuta, Baruten Local Government of the state and went away with him.

    Police source said that the kidnap victim was later found in the bush in a pool of blood with multiple machete cuts.

    Ejire-Adeyemi said on learning about the abduction, a swift response team comprising operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Vigilantes, and local hunters were immediately mobilised for a bush combing operation aimed at rescuing the victim unhurt.

    ”In a follow-up operation the next day, the joint search team encountered the kidnappers at Korori Village. A fierce gun duel ensued, wherein one of the kidnappers was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire, his AK-47 rifle loaded with 13 rounds of live ammunition was recovered. While the remaining suspects fled into the bush and are currently being trailed.

    ”Sadly, a vigilante named Haruna Tasusuno sustained a gunshot wound on the stomach and was rushed to the General Hospital, Okuta, where he was later confirmed dead.”

  • Ondo okays financial autonomy for judiciary

    Ondo okays financial autonomy for judiciary

    Ondo State government has granted financial autonomy for the judiciary workers, following the suspension of the industrial action by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).

    This was announced in a statement yesterday by the Secretary of JUSUN, Alade Kehinde in Akure.

    Alade said the decision came after a meeting with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    According to him, the governor’s intervention came after the two weeks’ strike had been suspended.

    He said the government had made a commitment to set up a committee and begin the implementation of the autonomy from next month.

    “Arising from the state administrative council of JUSUN Ondo State and due consultations with our national headquarters, we considered the following and resolved to suspend the ongoing Ondo State JUSUN industrial action.,’’ he said.

    READ ALSO: PDP to INEC: Tell us our secretary!

    “Commitment on the part of the state government to implement our demands on compliance with the provision of the law on release of funds to the Ondo State judiciary.

    “Commitment on the part of the state government to constitute a committee to work within a reasonable timeframe to fast track the implementation in July 2025,” Alade said in the statement.

    The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), has assured the workers that the state remained committed to the principles of judicial independence and fiscal responsibility.

    In a statement to commend the workers for calling off their strike, Ajulo stated that the Aiyedatiwa government would continue to work with stakeholders to ensure peaceful industrial relations.

    He added that “judicial autonomy is guaranteed, noting that what is required is for parties involved to demonstrate understanding and seek proper clarification on its practical implementation.”

    The AG lauded Aiyedatiwa’s “visionary and responsive leadership” in finding a sustainable solution to the industrial dispute.

  • Kwara governor, Ashiru for N200m Endowment Fund launch

    Kwara governor, Ashiru for N200m Endowment Fund launch

    Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, is  expected to be the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of N200 million Endowment Fund by theEsie/Iludun Grammar School Old Students Association (EIGSOSA),

    The senator representing Kwara South Senatorial District, Senator Lola Ashiru, is to be the Chief Launcher at the event, billed for Saturday, July 19, this year  at House 12, Onikanga Road, GRA Ilorin, Kwara State.

      Monarchs are among other dignitaries expected to attend the event, starting at 10am.

    READ ALSO: PDP to INEC: Tell us our secretary!

      According to a statement by EIGSOSA’s National President, Dr. Femi Ofunremi, the launch, “aims to revive the school’s alma mater through sustainable endowment programmes, creating opportunities for future generations.”

       He said the theme, “Endowment of Hope, Mediation, and Power for an Excellent Legacy: Empowering Generations, Enriching Legacies,” reflects the association’s commitment to nurturing excellence.

        All old students(home and abroad), the statement added, are enjoined to attend the launch.

  • Akeredolu’s widow condemns demolition of Owo cenotaph

    Akeredolu’s widow condemns demolition of Owo cenotaph

    • Ondo Catholic Bishop berates govt’s action

    Widow of the former Ondo State governor Mrs Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu, yesterday stormed the tomb of her husband in Owo, Owo Local Government Area, to condemn the demolition of the memorial park built to immortalise the victims of the terror attack at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

    The park, built by the Akeredolu administration to honour the victims of the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack, where over 40 worshippers were killed, was brought down last weekend.

    A bulldozer, acting under the instructions of the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, reportedly tore the edifice, following complaints from the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye.

    The development has since sparked reactions and divergent views from the indigenes and the loyalists of late Akeredolu.

    But in a three-minute 16 second video posted on her social media, the distraught Mrs Akeredolu broke down, describing the demolition as an attempt to ‘rubbish’ her husband’s legacy.

    “Darling (Akeredolu), I’ve always known you to love your people. Please see Owo people, then see what they have done to you,” she said.

    READ ALSO: Why is Nasir El-Rufai so desperate?

    Recounting the efforts of her late husband to honour the memory of the victims and casualties in the attack, Mrs Akeredolu criticised Aiyedatiwa and the Olowo of Owo for the demolition.

    The Catholic Diocese of Ondo has described the demolition of the park built as a violation of the dignity of life and memories of those massacred in the violent attack.

    Its Bishop, Dr. Jude Arogundade, said the pulling down of the park had reawakened the pains of families of victims and casualties of the attack.

    “There is no doubt that the demolition is a violation of our common respect for the dignity of life and the memory we share of our 41 brothers and sisters who were unjustly killed. ‘‘

    “The Catholic Diocese of Ondo unequivocally condemns and finds unacceptable the sudden and unannounced demolition of the Memorial Park in Owo.

    “This site, established by the State Government, served as a neutral and communal space for remembrance, reflection, and communal healing after the June 5, 2022 terrorist attack. Its demolition seems to have renewed the pain of everyone who was affected by the attack, and justifiably so,” he said. 

    Arogundade recalled the intervention of the Ondo Diocese when the natives of the community first protested over the site of the memorial park at the front of the church.

    According to the Catholic Bishop, the Diocese issued a statement, making it clear that the space was a Memorial Park and NOT a graveyard.

    “In the letter, the misunderstanding by those who thought it was a burial ground, especially due to its proximity to the Palace, was addressed openly, and an appeal was made for understanding and mutual respect.”

    While explaining that the site of the cenotaph was legitimately acquired and developed by the state government, Arogundade added that the demolished edifice was designated as Memorial Park for honouring the victims.

    “It was commissioned and blessed by the state government and the church respectively,” he noted.

    She described the action of the duo, specifically that of Olowo of Owo, whom she claimed was installed by her late husband as an act of ‘hypocrisy.’

    “They didn’t blink an eye in rubbishing you, rubbishing your memory, rubbishing your legacy, as they claim, spear-headed by Olowo of Owo , whom you single-handedly install…(sic)…and ‘Lucky’ the enabler ordered for demolition of a monument in remembrance of those victims massacred.

    “The entire nation was shocked, and the least you could do was to eraze that monument. Nobody, no corpse, was buried in that place. It was symbolic, all these people, they travel abroad, they see what happens in other climes,” Mrs Akeredolu said.

    In an emotional ladden manner, the Akeredolu widow added: “Why do we do things differently? To score political points or to settle scores? The Oba (Olowo of Owo) that doesn’t want the so-called cemetery, but that’s not a cemetery.

    “There is one behind his house. He sleeps with the dead. All the Olowos of the world, where were they buried, were they not buried in that place he’s living? Look at the hypocrisy!”

    “I promise you ( Akeredolu), I promise you, so long as I live, so long as I live, they will not succeed. They will not rubbish you. They will not rubbish you. Aketi lives on, I say it all the time.”

  • Oyo govt to digitalise Olunloyo’s private library

    Oyo govt to digitalise Olunloyo’s private library

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde says plan is underway to digitalise the private library of the late a former governor Omololu Olunloyo.

    Speaking at an Executive session, held in honour of the former governor at the House of Chief, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, Makinde said the move was in recognition of the elder statesman’s contribution to the education sector.

    The remains of the late former governor were brought in a casket, which was covered with the Nigerian flag.

    Makinde said: “Chief Olunloyo is a genius whose contribution to the education sector at the state and national levels remains indelible.

    “His private library is a treasure trove of knowledge capable of offering solutions to numerous societal challenges. He invested his resources in books. This made him stand out among his peers in academics.

    “For the unborn generation to draw from his fountain of knowledge, there is the need to preserve his library which to me is a befitting heritage that he is leaving behind.”

    READ ALSO: Why is Nasir El-Rufai so desperate?

    ‎‎He announced that the park named after the former governor was ready for inauguration.

    ‎Makinde observed a minute silence to honour victims of the accident that occurred at Soka, ibadan on Tuesday.

    ‎Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, and Acting Rector, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, eulogised the late Olunloyo, describing him as embodiment of great commitment to public service.

    ‎‎Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs Oluyemi Olunloyo-Buckner, said Olunloyo was not only exceptionally brilliant but also a father who gave the family identity, heritage and love.

    ‎‎Olunloyo, a former governor of old Oyo State and renowned mathematician, died on April 6, this year, few days to his 90th birthday.

    ‎

  • Tinubu, First Lady, governors, APC, others celebrate Sanwo-Olu at 60

    Tinubu, First Lady, governors, APC, others celebrate Sanwo-Olu at 60

    Prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, governors, and party stalwarts, have taken to social media to felicitate the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on his 60th birthday, extolling his leadership, developmental strides, and unwavering commitment to public service.

    President Tinubu, under whose political mentorship Sanwo-Olu began his public service journey, led the tributes.

    The President commended the Lagos State governor’s dedication to the vision of a greater Lagos, in alignment with the master plan laid during his tenure as governor of the state from 1999 to 2007.

    “Your execution of this vision is exemplified by landmark achievements, including completing the Blue and Red Rail lines and the ongoing preparations for the Purple Line, which will serve the vital Lekki corridor.

    “I urge you to sustain this trajectory by prioritising impactful projects for Lagosians, notably the long-awaited Fourth Mainland Bridge and the Freedom Way to Victoria Garden City (VGC) Road. I also wish you continued good health, longevity, and many more years of invaluable service to Lagos State and Nigeria,’’ President Tinubu said.

    READ ALSO: Why is Nasir El-Rufai so desperate?

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, also conveyed her good wishes to Sanwo-Olu. She praised his dedication to governance and public service, describing him as an exemplary leader.

    “Your dedication to service has set you apart as an exemplary leader. As you mark this special day, may you be blessed with more wisdom, strength, and divine health to fulfill your God-ordained purpose,’’ she said.

    Governors across the country equally celebrated the Lagos State governor’s milestone.

    Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, hailed Sanwo-Olu’s transformational leadership and described him as an inspiration beyond the boundaries of Lagos.

    “Your commitment to the growth and transformation of Lagos, the commercial nerve centre of our nation continues to inspire and impact lives across the region and beyond. We pray that the Almighty grants you more wisdom, strength, and grace as you continue to serve with distinction,” Abiodun posted.

    In Ekiti, Governor Biodun Oyebanji described Sanwo-Olu as a brilliant statesman and experienced administrator whose legacy projects have positioned Lagos as a true megacity.

    “Sanwo-Olu is a torchbearer for a greater Lagos and a loyal party man who has executed his assignments with distinction. He has always been a committed patriot and exemplary servant-leader,” Oyebanji stated.

    Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo praised the Lagos helmsman as a “shining example of good governance”, lauding his performance in infrastructure, economy, and security.

    “Happy 60th birthday to an icon of good governance. You have shown that a good vehicle also requires a good driver,” Ododo remarked.

    The national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) also celebrated the governor, acknowledging his contributions to the party and the nation.

    “Happy birthday to the Governor of Lagos State, HE. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Our great party wishes them many more healthy years to continue their impactful public service to the nation,” the party posted on X.

    Sanwo-Olu also took to social media to express gratitude and reflect on his journey in public life.

    He described his 60th birthday as a moment of appreciation and introspection.

    “I woke up this morning feeling grateful, not just for the years, but for the journey itself. I’ve learned that public service is one of the highest callings. It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply fulfilling,” the governor wrote.

    He added: “Today, I’m thankful for life, for the trust of Lagosians, the people I serve, and for the opportunity to keep working toward something greater than myself.”

    The governor also extended his birthday wishes to his friend and birthday mate, Gbajabiamila, who was 63, describing him as a “principled leader” with a remarkable legacy in legislative and executive service.

    In a lighter moment of celebration, Sanwo-Olu was seen showcasing his dance skills at a thanksgiving service organised in his honour at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The event, attended by dignitaries, family, and friends, featured joyful music and heartfelt tributes.

  • Ekiti, Osun governorship polls fixed for July 20, August 8 next year

    Ekiti, Osun governorship polls fixed for July 20, August 8 next year

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states will hold on July 20 and August 8, 2026.

    The commission warned political parties to adhere strictly to the laid-down guidelines in the conduct of their primaries, submissions of candidates and campaigns.

    The Ekiti State INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, spoke in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, at a meeting with political parties, where he officially served notice of the Ekiti State 2026 governorship election to them.

    He stressed that going by the provisions of Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, as amended, INEC is empowered to issue the notice of election not later than 360 days to the scheduled date.

    The REC assured political parties and the people of the state that the commission was committed to conducting credible, peaceful and inclusive elections.

    READ ALSO: PDP to INEC: Tell us our secretary!

    Omoseyindemi, who said the timetable and schedule of activities for the election had been released and made available to political parties, added that the notice would be pasted in the INEC offices across the 16 local government areas of the state.

    The REC urged them to conduct their primaries between October 20 and November 10, 2025 in line with the guidelines and electoral act towards achieving a peaceful and acceptable election in the state.

    He said: “This meeting is both symbolic and strategic. It marks the beginning of the electoral process, and it also provides an opportunity for early engagement with political parties, the media, and other stakeholders on our collective responsibilities in ensuring a credible, inclusive, and peaceful electoral process.

    “The Notice of Election, which will be published today at the INEC State Office and all Local Government Area offices in Ekiti State, serves as the official kick-off of activities as contained in the Timetable and Schedule that will be released immediately after this meeting.

    “As always, INEC remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, professionalism, and fairness in all our processes. We expect that political parties will reciprocate this by adhering strictly to the rules of engagement, particularly in the conduct of their party primaries, submission of candidates, and campaigns, in accordance with the Electoral Act and the Commission’s guidelines.

    “To the media, we count on your professionalism and objectivity in reporting the electoral process and in countering misinformation, fake news, and inciting narratives that could undermine public confidence.

    “To the general public and the people of Ekiti State, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering a free, fair, and credible election.”