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Category: South West

  • Oba Elerinmo bags institute of information management honorary fellow

    Oba Elerinmo bags institute of information management honorary fellow

    The Arowotawaya II, Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa Kingdom in Osun State, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr Michael Odunayo Ajayi JP, has been conferred with the Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Information Management (FIIM) in a remarkable ceremony held in London, United Kingdom. 

    This was as the Institute of Information Management (IMM) UK, also recognised the monarch as the royal father of the day at the successful conclusion of the 7th IIM United Kingdom Annual Conference, the 58th Induction & Investiture Ceremony, and the International University of Information Management (IUIM) Honorary Programme, which took place on Saturday, June 14, 2025.

    The dual recognition was in honour of Oba Ajayi’s distinguished contribution to leadership roles, community development and national progress in Nigeria and the society, including contributions in the information space. 

    His induction as the Fellow, Institute of Information Management FIIM has continued to expand his global presence in vital issues as it affects the society.

    Another key component of the programme was the IUIM Honorary Doctorate Conferment on distinguished individuals for their exceptional achievements in data governance, digital transformation, and exemplary leadership. 

    Honorees included Sir Godwin I. Achi, Steve Maingot, Abdulla Al Mamun, High Chief Richmond Hope MacGrey, Her Highness Queen Grace Eganda, and His Highness Paul Eganda.

    Additionally, the event celebrated the conferment of Honorary Fellowships on respected figures that include Hon. Abimbola Oluwasona, General Secretary of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation UK South (NIDO UKS), Thierry A. Bayle, Founder of Global Fashion Management and the London Fashion Business Academy, Sir Godwin I. Achi, Group Managing Director and CEO of Oscorp Capital Advisors Limited, and Martin Weightman, Executive Manager at the Academy of Nutritional Medicine (AONM), United Kingdom.

    The Institute also presented a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ to Prince Bimbo Roberts Folayan, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to the Institute of Information Management and his outstanding commitment to the advancement of the data and information management ecosystem. 

    According to the organisers, this year’s event, held under the timely theme; “Adapting to Post-Brexit Data Protection and Compliance Challenges in the UK,” attracted a distinguished audience of data protection experts, compliance professionals, policymakers, industry leaders, scholars, and honorees. It served as a high-level platform for meaningful dialogue and practical insights on navigating the evolving data protection landscape in the United Kingdom following Brexit.

    Ambassador (Dr) Oyedokun A. Oyewole, the International President/Chairman of IIM Africa and the President/Founder of the International University of Information Management (IUIM), delivered the keynote address and emphasized the need for organizations and professionals to embrace forward-thinking compliance strategies, strong data governance frameworks, and ethical stewardship in the face of global regulatory shifts. 

    He underscored that the conference marks a pivotal moment in the industry’s collective response to post-Brexit challenges, stressing that adaptation is no longer sufficient we must lead with insight, courage, and a strong commitment to global best practices in data and information governance/compliance.

    Read Also: Oba Elerinmo offers endowment grant for University of Ilorin’s best social science graduate

    The event featured impactful presentations and discussions on topics such as data sovereignty in the UK, divergence from the GDPR, managing cross-border compliance, and fostering digital trust. 

    The formal induction and investiture ceremony welcomed new professionals into IIM’s growing international network of certified/accredited members and fellows, reinforcing the Institute’s mission to build a global community of data and information management leaders.

    The highly elated monarch was accompanied to the investiture event by some of his family members and friends that included his beautiful wife, Olori Aderonke Odunayo Ajayi who ensured that guests were refreshed and entertained after the event. 

    Others are his blossom friends, Lanre Semilore and Niyi Olaodebikan, the president and notable members of the Unilorin Alumni Association in UK and Europe led by Prince Bola Adelaja, the president of the chapter, as well as numerous others. 

    Oba Ajayi, who is the National Deputy President, Yoruba Obas Forum has been in the forefront of leadership roles in traditional and cultural matters including a big voice in nation building as it concerns grassroots and traditional rulers.

    Arowotawaya II, is also a Fellow, Institute of Alternative  Dispute Resolution of Nigeria (FiADRN) and Fellow, Institute of Conflict Management of Nigeria (FiCMN). 

    Elerinmo also serves in other Boards as reputable member. He is patron to many youth organisations and has contributed much in developing his once sleepy domain to a tourist delight.

    The cerebral monarch whose strong social media visibility in societal issues and wealth of knowledge in traditional and religious matters has, in many occasions and publications canvassed that traditional rulers in Nigeria should be given roles in government as the third tier of the government, and be allowed to handle security matters from the grassroot. 

    In one of his comments, he asserted that traditional rulers know their community more than government and should be an effective watchdog over community security matters, adding that with information technology, kings can effectively control and protect their domain from intruders.

    Oba Arowotawaya II has actively participated in the annual conference of the African Consortium for Law and Religion Studies (ACLAR) headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethopia with conferences held in many African countries where his views play prominence. 

    In many occasion, he has championed and delivered lectures on cultural matters, such as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Batch A Stream 1 Orientation Course, where he delivered a lecture, educating the young adults about the rich culture and traditions of the State among other things. 

    The Institute has in the past, conferred some notable dignitaries, the IMM Honorary Fellows. They include Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former Nigerian President; H.E Nana Akufo-Addo, former Ghanaian president; Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi; Senator Ibikunle Amosun among others. 

    Some royal fathers who have also been conferred with the Honorary fellow in the past include His Imperial Majesty,  Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife; Oba M.A.A Gbadebo, Alake of Egbaland; Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, Oba of Lagos and Oba Saheed Ademola Elegusi of Ikate, Lagos.

    The Institute of Information Management (IIM) is an international professional membership driven institute registered in America, Europe and Africa, developed to serve the growing community of Data, Information, Records, Document, Knowledge and Archives Management professionals who are tasked with managing the dynamic information life cycle within the enterprise. 

    The Institute now has presence in several countries like Nigeria, Ghana, United states of America, Switzerland, South Africa, Australia, United Kingdom and Canada including other countries.

    Meanwhile, participants expressed deep appreciation for the insights shared and left empowered to implement transformative data strategies within their organizations. 

    The conference also fostered high-level networking, creating valuable opportunities for strategic collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders, regulators, and academia.

  • Diaspora group commiserates with Makinde over death of ex-Nigerian High Commissioner

    Diaspora group commiserates with Makinde over death of ex-Nigerian High Commissioner

    The Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID) has commiserated with Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyo State Elders’ Council, the immediate family, and the entire Oyo state over the death of former Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and Malawi Ibironke Adefope 

    Adefope, a member of Oyo State Elders’ Council, died at 73. 

    OID described Adefope as an inspiration, a civil rights champion, and a legend, who left a fundamental footprint on Oyo State and Nigerian politics. 

    A statement by spokesperson for OID, Barr. Ayotomiwa Adebayo said the deceased was a beacon of leadership and a significant central figure in good governance whose enormous contribution to Oyo State political landscape and the return of democracy to Nigeria cannot be overemphasized.

    “Mama Adefope can best be described as a philanthropist and a champion of the underprivileged. She showed incredible kindness to those who needed it and sacrificed everything to create opportunities for the underrepresented groups.     

    Read Also: Akpabio to receive prestigious Nigeria Golden Hearts Award in UK for legislative leadership

    “Our mother lived a fulfilled life through selfless service to humanity and had a huge impact on our public life. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of high standards, meritorious and unyielding excellence in service to the people, country, and beyond. 

    “Ambassador Adefope served the country and State she truly loved as former Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and Malawi, as well as a member of the Oyo State Elders’ Council and Advisory Council. She will be dearly missed by many.

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Oyo State government, the good people of the State, her immediate family, and associates. 

    “We pray to God Almighty to grant her family and everyone touched by Mama’s demise the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. 

    “Mama has indeed fought a good fight, run the race, finished the course, and has gone to be with the Lord. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”

  • APC chieftain to Adeleke: don’t gag the press, freedom of speech should be guaranteed

    APC chieftain to Adeleke: don’t gag the press, freedom of speech should be guaranteed

    An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Osun State, Hon. Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin (AIO), has cautioned the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, over his warning to radio stations in the state.

    Recall that the governor had warned radio stations in the state to desist from allowing incitement to violence and constant breach of the national broadcasting codes.

    Adeleke expressed displeasure at the activities of some radio stations, who he said allowed guests to incite the public to violence and also manifest disdain for fair hearing to stakeholders.

    Reacting, Hon. Adeniyi described the governor’s statement as an assault on free speech, urging radio stations to resist the threat.

    He said, “The recent threat by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to sanction radio stations over alleged ‘breach of broadcasting codes’ is a blatant, unconstitutional assault on press freedom and a desperate attempt to suppress dissent in the wake of his illegal local government power grab.

    “This action, directing the Commissioner for Information to summon radio stations and warning of sanctions, is not just hypocritical but a gross violation of Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression.

    “The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), not a partisan state official, holds the statutory mandate to regulate broadcast content. Governor Adeleke’s move reeks of political intimidation aimed at silencing critics of his administration’s treasonable disregard for the Court of Appeal judgment reinstating democratically elected LG officials. 

    “Governor Adeleke’s sudden concern for ‘broadcasting ethics’ is laughably inconsistent.

    Read Also: LG crisis: Adeleke orders probe of Osun radio stations over alleged inciteful comments

    “NBC’s Exclusive Mandate: The NBC Act vests regulatory authority solely in the federal commission. Governor Adeleke has zero legal grounds to order state-level sanctions or summon radio managers. His directive to the Commissioner for Information is an unlawful usurpation of federal authority. 

    “Suppression of Judicial Accountability: The Governor’s fury stems from radio discussions on the Court of Appeal’s reinstatement of elected LG officials,

    “A call to action: Resisting tyranny – I urge every radio station in Osun to reject this intimidation holistically. Do not attend the Commissioner’s summons. Instead: 

    “Invoke the NBC’s authority: Demand that any grievances undergo due process via the NBC, not partisan state actors. 

    “Amplify silenced voices: Double down on platforms for opposition figures, victims of LG disruptions, and legal experts analysing Adeleke’s constitutional breaches. 

    “Document threats: Report coercion to international press freedom bodies like Reporters Without Borders.”

  • Ekinrin-Adde targets N600m infrastructure fund ahead of 2025 Day Festival

    Ekinrin-Adde targets N600m infrastructure fund ahead of 2025 Day Festival

    The Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (EADA) has unveiled plans to raise a self-help-driven Infrastructural Development Fund worth N600 million, aimed at supporting various community-led projects.

    This was disclosed in Abuja on Monday by veteran journalist and public affairs analyst, Prince Babajide Kolade Otitoju, during a world press briefing heralding the 32nd edition of the annual festival.

    Prince Otitoju said the initiative is part of the community’s longstanding tradition of self-reliance and social development, positioning Ekinrin-Adde as a pace-setter not just in Ijumu Local Government Area, but across Kogi State and the broader Okun-Yoruba axis.

    He said the funds would be directed toward completing ongoing and new infrastructure projects.

    He likened the festival to cultural celebrations such as the Ojude Oba in Ijebu Ode and Lisabi Day in Abeokuta, describing it as a cultural and development renaissance that has increasingly gained national significance.

    He described Ekinrin-Adde as a remarkably modern Okun-Yoruba community in Kogi State’s Western Senatorial District, celebrated for its rich human capital, natural resources, and a legacy of producing distinguished Nigerians across the judiciary, military, civil service, sports, academia, religion, and politics.

    Among them, according to him, are Justice John Afolabi, the first Kogi indigene to sit on the bench of the Supreme Court; Gen. Oshanupin (rtd), former GOC of the 3rd Armoured Division; Navy Commander LMO Fabiyi; Col. Tunde Fagbemi (rtd); Mr. Felix Ikumapayi of the DSS; Olympic Gold Medalist Abiodun Obafemi; Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja; and Bishop Funke Adejumo of Agape Ministries. Others include Hon. James Faleke, Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, and retired Justice Alaba Ajileye, among several others.

    He said, “Our culture is the heartbeat of our community, the thread that weaves us together as one people.

    “This celebration is our way of proudly showcasing who we are, what we stand for, and the rich traditions that define us. It’s more than a festival, it’s a reaffirmation of our shared identity and the unity that we hold so dear.

    “That deep sense of togetherness has always been our greatest strength. It’s what has propelled us to achieve remarkable milestones, setting the pace not just in Okun land, but across Kogi State and beyond”.

    Otitoju emphasised that the infrastructural fund reflects the community’s enduring legacy of self-help, noting that Ekinrin-Adde recognised early on that government alone could not shoulder development, hence its long history of trailblazing achievements.

    He said it was the first community in Ijumu LGA to establish a secondary school, a maternity center, a postal agency, and later two secondary schools, adding that the community also pioneered banking in the area with the creation of IBWA Bank in 1985 (Afribank) and its own Ekinrin-Adde Community Bank in 1992.

    This year’s festival, he said, will not only feature the launch of the N600 million development fund but also recognise illustrious sons and daughters, as well as friends of the community from across Nigeria.

    He said the funds would be directed toward completing ongoing and new infrastructure projects, including the establishment of a new Computer-Based Test (CBT) center.

    Read Also: Inside IBD Dende’s two-day Ileya soiree

    The CBT centre, he explained, is a critical intervention aimed at eliminating the hardship faced by students who currently travel long distances outside the community to sit for computer-based examinations.

    “We are giving the celebration a national outlook and working towards positioning it as a global tourist destination,” he added.

    He further noted that the 2025 edition will introduce several new elements designed to deepen cultural pride and youth engagement.

    These include an essay competition, traditional marriage protocol showcases, displays of cultural attire, food exhibitions, clan eulogy renaissance, and competitive events with attractive cash prizes.

    The Ekinrin-Adde Day Festival, Otitoju added, is not just a celebration of heritage but also a strategic tool for development, unity, and intergenerational bonding.

    He expressed confidence that the community’s determination, coupled with the support of well-meaning Nigerians, will make the 2025 edition a landmark event in its history.

    The Association also announced that an unprecedented number of guests and visitors are expected to grace this year’s celebration.

    According to him, Hon. James Faleke, the member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and a proud son of Ekinrin-Adde, is expected to be on the ground to receive dignitaries and guests from far and wide.

    Dismissing suggestions that the lawmaker may have forgotten his roots by representing a constituency outside his hometown, Kolade-Otitoju noted that Hon. Faleke has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the development of Ekinrin-Adde, proving that true patriotism transcends geographic boundaries.

    “We’re deeply proud of Hon. Faleke, he’s a shining example of what Ekinrin-Adde can offer this country. His impact goes far beyond Lagos, his contributions at the national level, especially with the recent Tax Bills, show the weight of responsibility he carries with grace and brilliance.

    “What makes us even prouder is that, despite his national duties, he has never forgotten home. We can point to several transformative projects in our community that bear his touch, proof that his heart remains with us,” he said.

    The President of the Association, Deinde Komolafe, further emphasized that the community aims to use the festival as a platform to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into its rich mineral and cultural assets, leveraging the networks of its accomplished sons and daughters in the diaspora, many of whom are expected to attend the event alongside their friends and business associates.

    “We’re genuinely excited about this because we know the ripple effect of foreign investment could be transformative, not just for our community, but for the neighbouring towns as well.

    “It’s a chance to breathe new life into our local economy and create opportunities that will uplift us all,” he added.

    Prof. Solomon Ibileye, the Chief Assessor of the Essay Competition noted that the array of activities planned for the Festival is designed not only to strengthen community unity but also to deepen the younger generation’s understanding of their heritage.

    He revealed that the essay competition for students in secondary and tertiary institutions, both at home and abroad, is a key initiative to encourage young people to explore and express their knowledge of their ancestral roots.

    On his part, Emmanuel Ogungbuyi, the National Publicity Secretary of the group said the event would also be leveraged on the maiden Economic Summit.

    “The chance for the breath of a new life into the local economy by the event is a priority we are passionate about,” Ogungbuyi said.

  • 11 years after robbery, Ekiti community seeks return of banking service

    11 years after robbery, Ekiti community seeks return of banking service

    Residents of Okemesi-Ekiti, headquarters of Okemesi/Ido-Ile Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Ekiti State are yearning for the return of  banking services to their community, 11 years after a deadly robbery attack on a bank branch.

    The robbery attack left two people dead and many injured, leading to the closure of the bank branch. Since then, the community has been without banking services.

    The residents under the auspices of the Likes Group, a prominent club  in the community, lamented that the absence of banking services had been devastating on the town with economic activities negatively affected.

    The Mayor of the group, a former Deputy Speaker of state House of Assembly, Adesina Animasaun, spoke at Okemesi-Ekiti during the third Socio-Economic Summit and investiture of new executives for 2025/27.

    READ ALSO; June 12: Remembrance and omissions

    Animasaun, who explained no business can thrive without a functional banking environment, said efforts were already ongoing to partner a private university in the town, for the return of the banking activities.

    He said it had always been the agenda of the group to seek the reengineering of the economic and commercial focus of the community, by way of intervening and contributing to the welfare and well-being of the able class, particularly the youth, mostly the unemployed, students, farmers, traders and artisans alike.

    “The responsibility of The Likes Group transcends self-interest. We have a responsibility to help our community flourish. It’s about lifting one another and facilitating opportunities where everyone can access the resources and support they need to realize their full potential.

    “The Likes Club Reimagine dialogue is a catalyst aimed at creating a ripple effect that should transform our community.

    “This community dialogue event is aimed at fostering collaboration, learning, and empowerment within our local community. It will address critical issues and aspirations that impact our collective well-being and future.

    “We aspire to create a dynamic and inclusive event that inspires positive change and action through engaging sessions, meaningful dialogue, and community participation,” he said.

    The traditional ruler of Okemesi-Ekiti, Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, commended the contributions of the group to the socio-economic development of the town.

    Oba Adedeji, who described TLG as one of the few most functional groups in the town, urged other clubs to emulate its good works.

    He lauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration for its efforts in uplifting Ekiti to its pride of place, saying the governor deserved a second term in office.

    The lead discussant, and Chairman/CEO, Conference For Africa Studies, Bayo Ajijola, saluted the courage of TLG, for championing the struggle for economic emancipation of the community.

  • Monarch petitions IG over alleged plot to raze Osun community

    Monarch petitions IG over alleged plot to raze Osun community

    A traditional ruler in Osun State, Oba Taofeeq Osunmakinde, has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over the threats by suspected armed hoodlums to raze his community.

    Osunmakinde said the threat stemmed from a protracted boundary dispute between his community and neighbouring communities in Ijebu.

    The monarch alleged that the hoodlums who had the backing of the state government have been harassing, extorting residents and passerby on the federal road connecting Ife South to Ijebu West.

    Addressing reporters at the weekend in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the traditional ruler, asked the IG to investigate and also apprehend those sponsoring the hoodlums to cause an unrest hiding under the cover of the border dispute between Ife and Ijebu over the 30-mile land area known as Ifetuntun.

    He expressed concern that some top government officials are threatening to level Ifetuntun within the next 24 hours, noting that the hoodlums are beginning to take control of the community.

    “We are appealing to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. We have submitted petitions with evidence to his office, as well as to the Osun State and Federal Governments, to come to our aid.

    “We are law-abiding citizens and cannot take the law into our own hands. We seek justice and government intervention,” he said.

    READ ALSO; Tinubu’s 2027 landscape: Reform, resistance and the road ahead

    Osunmakinde traced the history of Ifetuntun community, saying it is a government-reserved area where he served as a chief, known as “Baale.”

    He recounted that in 2001, during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, a conflict erupted between the settlers of Ifetuntun and the Ijebu, prompting federal government intervention.

    According to the monarch, the Surveyor-General of the Federation demarcated the borders, allowing both communities to coexist peacefully until now.

    Also, he noted that between 2008 and 2009, a chieftaincy inquiry in Osun State included Ifetuntun, affirming its status as a town.

    Osunmakinde said he was crowned as monarch in 2010, by the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, and the then Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who presented him with a certificate and staff of office.

    The traditional ruler stressed that while Ifetuntun had existed before 2010, this recognition of the throne solidified their peaceful way of life, which has persisted since.

    The monarch, however, highlighted that Ifetuntun has experienced the rule of nine military and civilian administrations without significant conflict or disarray in the community.

  • Siege of underdevelopment is broken in Ogun West, says Adeola

    Siege of underdevelopment is broken in Ogun West, says Adeola

    Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Adeola (APC, Ogun West), has stated that the siege of underdevelopment and marginalisation that had been the lots of the people of Yewa- Awori in Ogun West Senatorial District since the creation of the state is over with his representation and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Delivering an address at the Third Session of the 12th Synod of the Diocese of Yewa, The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) with the theme: “The siege is broken” at Rev Fry Memorial Anglican Church, Ishaga- Orile in Ogun State, the senator said that since his coming back home from Lagos two years ago under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and his complementary delivery of democracy dividends with Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Yewaland people and all parts of the Senatorial district has witnessed unprecedented infrastructural and socio-economic development.

    Senator Adeola, popularly called Yayi by his admirers, said about five years ago, when he was still a senator representing Lagos State, he was similarly invited to chair the Second Session of the 11th Synod at Ilaro-Yewa, adding that waiting on the Lord by the faithful paid off in the end as is the case with the people of Ogun West.

    “At the time of that Synod in Ilaro, I was the Senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District in Lagos State. It was a trying time that I made efforts to come back home to render service for my people in Yewaland, Ogun West and indeed, Ogun State. Today, by the special grace of God Almighty and the votes of the people, I am the Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District in Ogun State. We waited on the Lord and he answered us in his own time.

    READ ALSO; Tinubu’s 2027 landscape: Reform, resistance and the road ahead

    The waiting is over and in the last two years we can sing “Come and See What the Lord has done” in Yewaland and Ogun West.” he stated.

    Reflecting on the text that informed the theme of the Synod taken from 2 Chronicles 20:15-25, Adeola said just as the Lord fought for the people of Israel and Judah against a host of powerful and hostile enemies, Almighty God has been fighting for him, the people of Yewaland and Ogun West since he became their senator two years ago adding that everyone can attest to the tremendous development that the senatorial district and elsewhere has witnessed in the areas of infrastructural development particularly construction of roads, school buildings, healthcare centres, ICT Centres, ultra-modern markets, town halls and Police Stations, electricity and solar lights, among others.

     “Our mega empowerment programmes for our constituents also look like spoils collected by the Israelites after God destroyed their enemies with reference to 2 Chronicles 20: 25. As it is, the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is yielding positive results and so far, prevented the economic collapse that faced the nation two years ago. The bold and innovative policies of the President like the removal of oil subsidy, floating of exchange rates, student loan, consumer credit and massive infrastructural development, signing the minimum wage law among others, have positioned the nation’s economy on the path of steady and sustainable growth. And to the Glory of God, we are part of the direct beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Agenda on Infrastructure” he stated.

    While urging the cleric to continue to pray for our nation, our armed forces and all leaders as they seek solutions to the problem of insurgency, kidnappings and other criminal vices assailing our society, Adeola commended the governor of the state Prince Abiodun for his giant strides in bringing development to our people in Ogun in general and Yewaland in particular, adding:  “Our people are witnesses to your rehabilitation of structures in the educational and health sectors, the completed housing projects and more importantly road construction and rehabilitation with references to Ilashe-Koko- Alari Road in Ipokia, Imasayi-Ayetoro Road and ongoing work on Ilaro-Owode Road, Afa Bridge, Ipokia, Oke Ola Road, Imeko, internal road of State Hospital, Ilaro, Renovation of State Hospital, Ilaro and the Atan-Lusada-Agbara Road, among others,”

    Earlier, the  Bishop of Yewa Diocese, The Rt. Revd Michael Oluwarohunbi said Adeola infrastructural interventions and empowerment programmes has helped in breaking the siege of Yewaland adding that the advent of Yayi in Ogun State is God’s answer to the prayers of the people that had changed the narratives.

    “There is an infrastructural revolution in Yewaland courtesy of Yayi. He has brought the first federal university through his representation to Ogun West, a sign of broken siege” the Bishop added.

  • 2027: Aiyedatiwa backs Tinubu’s re-election bid

    2027: Aiyedatiwa backs Tinubu’s re-election bid

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has pledged support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, saying his reforms and policies are unprecedented in the history

    Aiyedatiwa also said his people would support Tinubu because of the federal infrastructural projects and appointments extended to the state with his Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He highlighted some of the projects to include the dualisation of Ore-Ondo-Akure Road, establishment of the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, and an aviation school and construction of the Lagos/Calabar Coastal Highway passing through the state.

    The governor spoke at the weekend while receiving coordinators of ‘The Lucky Guy’ at the state, local, and wards in Akure, the state capital.

    The Nation reports that the group is already mobilising grassroots support for Tinubu’s re-election in Ondo State under the banner of “AsiwajuDatiwa.”

    Aiyedatiwa noted that the President deserved a second term as his reforms have led to an increase in the revenue coming to each of the states.

    “With these and many more, we have no reason not to give our utmost support to the re-election of Mr President in 2027.

    “You will recall that Ondo was among the states that gave him the highest vote percentage in 2023 with 69 per cent of the total votes.This time around, in 2027, we are ready to do much more than that.

    READ ALSO; June 12: Remembrance and omissions

    “We are happy with the increase in federal presence here in Ondo State since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office. The support given to our state by the federal government in the last two years has been unprecedented,” Aiyedatiwa said. 

    He commended the group for their innovation, dedication, and intellectual engagement in the state’s development journey. charging the members to remain sincere, loyal, and truthful in their dealings, while working as ambassadors of progress in their respective communities.

    “I am impressed with your passion and intellect. What you have started is not just about supporting a person, but about pushing for a better Ondo State. As you carry this message to the people, I urge you to do so with sincerity, loyalty, and truthfulness,” the governor added. 

    He, however, urged members of the group to mobilise more people to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), especially at the grassroots, ahead of the next general elections.

    The Convener of “The Lucky Guy”, MoyinOlorun Ogunwumiju, noted that TLG was formed to promote the political leadership and ideals of Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    “We are ready to be your foot soldiers in the 18 local governments. We are itching for more responsibility, in readiness to work for the upcoming “Asiwaju Datiwa 2027 project,” he said.

    The Director-General, Mobilisation, Muritala Suleiman, noted that TLG was coined from Aiyedatiwa’s name to create a platform for the youths who are loyal to the governor and are interested in politics.

  • Osun council crisis: Police deploy operatives in councils as APC, PDP executives resume Monday

    Osun council crisis: Police deploy operatives in councils as APC, PDP executives resume Monday

    A fresh crisis is looming in Osun State as local government executives of the All Progressives Congress(APC) and Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) are laying claim to the control of the councils amid dismissal of the case that was relisted.

    The Nation recalled that the Appeal Court on February 10, this year reinstated the APC executives earlier sacked by two Federal High Court verdicts. However, the appellate court dismissed an application by the APC seeking to relist an earlier appeal that had been struck out on January 13 for lack of diligent prosecution.

    Subsequently, the PDP executives elected on February 22, this year and Osun State government declared that they would resume councils, which had earlier been taken over by APC executives, stating that the dismissal of the fresh appeal upheld the sack of reinstated chairmen.

    Speaking with the chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria(ALGON) for APC, Abiodun Idowu, stated: “The keys of the councils are with us, we have an enrollment order which validates that we are the legal occupant of the councils. Let the PDP’s illegal officials show the police their enrollment order.

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    “There is no fear, we are in control of the local government which is why our enrolment order made the IGP deploy its men to us. No fear, Osun residents should go about their normal business.”

    However, the ALGON Chairman for PDP, Sarafadeen Awotunde, told The Nation: “We are not interested in disrupting the peace and good governance we are enjoying in Osun State under Governor Ademola Adeleke. Resumption does not matter to us for now, but the developmental projects that we are enjoying in Osun State.

    “The Court of Appeal that gave the judgment on Friday knows the next step to take to chase out those hooligans, the government is continuing. We respect the rule of law. This issue is not between Osun APC and PDP but APC against the people of Osun State.

    Speaking with the Osun State Police Command through its spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, he confirmed that they have deployed their men at the councils to forestall breakdown of peace.

    Meanwhile, Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered the probe of heads of radio stations in the state for allowing opposition leaders to spread inciteful and violent comments over fresh Appeal Court verdict on council control.

    Adeleke noted that those comments and messages by the opposition leaders in the state breached the national broadcasting codes.

  • Ado Royal Family backs  Lagos Monarch, calls for peace, development

    Ado Royal Family backs  Lagos Monarch, calls for peace, development

    The revered Ado Royal Family of Lagos State has expressed its strong support for His Royal Majesty, Oba Sulaimon Surajudeen Adisa Ba-Wahala Fabuwa II, the current Alado of Ado.

    In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Olanrewaju Olakunle Isiaka, Secretary to the Ado Royal Family, on behalf of the Royal Palace of Abule Ado, the family reaffirmed the legitimacy of the monarch as the rightful choice for the people, having been duly enthroned by traditional authorities, government, and the court.

    This declaration comes in response to a misleading public notice circulated by a group seeking to challenge the monarch’s lawful ascension and installation.

    The Ado Royal Family firmly dismissed the report, highlighting three key points to reaffirm the legitimacy of Oba Ba-Wahala Fabuwa II.

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    The statement outlined: “First, the Lagos State Government, through the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, has confirmed and recognised Oba Fabuwa II as the legitimate monarch of Ado.

    Secondly, the grand coronation ceremony was successfully conducted, attended by traditional rulers, government officials, community stakeholders, and the proud citizens of Abule Ado.

    Most importantly, a court case filed against the installation of Oba Fabuwa II has been heard and dismissed by a competent court, which found the claims to be frivolous, baseless, and lacking in merit.”

    The statement also noted that, despite receiving the court’s ruling from the Alado’s legal counsel, the antagonists have continued to propagate confusion through public notices and remarks.

    The Ado Royal Family described the recent public notice against the monarch as a “futile charade” aimed at intimidating the people of Ado Kingdom and discouraging their participation in upcoming community development programmes initiated by His Royal Majesty.

    The statement further noted: “Once a king is crowned with lawful authority and wise counsel, no single hand can take the drum of power from him.”

    The Family reiterated that the current monarch is not only legally and traditionally enthroned but is also dedicated to fostering peace, development, and unity within the Ado Kingdom.

    Additionally, the Royal Family reassured citizens that all scheduled programmes led by His Majesty would proceed as planned, encouraging full participation from the community.

    “No amount of distractions will derail the vision of transformation and unity that this reign represents,” the statement concluded.