The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Tinubu administration not ‘Yoruba government’, says Afenifere

    Tinubu administration not ‘Yoruba government’, says Afenifere

    Pan Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has rejected the tagging of the administration of President Bola Tinubu as a ‘Yoruba government.’

    It said the administration remained a Nigerian government that did not ascend to the presidency by tribal inheritance but by democratic choice.

    Afenifere said Tinubu emerged from votes cast in faith by Nigerians of every tongue, creed, and religion.

    It noted that to ‘label this administration as “Yoruba” and weaponize that label as grounds for sabotage is not only dishonest, but a vile act of tribal opportunism and sedition. We reject it utterly.’

    National Organising Secretary of Afenifere, Abagun Kole Omololu, in a statement, said the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari was not branded a “Fulani government,” adding that no tribal coalition was formed to deny Buhari a second term on the grounds of ethnicity.

    The statement hailed Dr. Sandra Duru for speaking truth to conspiracy. Her voice is a reminder that integrity still walks among us, and that silence, in the face of wickedness, is not an option for those who love this country.

    Afenifere condemned what it termed campaign of calumny and false allegations against President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    Read Also: Pastor Tunde Bakare and the state of the nation

    According to the statement, “We reject the weaponization of false allegations as political tools — especially when such weapons are aimed at innocent men, families and private lives.

    “We strongly decry the internationalization of fabricated domestic issues by those who authored the falsehood in the first place. This is akin to setting fire to your own seat in a cinema and running out crying “Fire! Fire!” — not out of alarm, but out of selfish ambition. It is selfishness that seeks to burn down the image of the nation to satisfy the ego of one person who believes that except she has her way, the country should not have peace.

    “Nigeria is not a personal or tribal empire. Our nation will not bow to tribal blackmail. It will not bend to invented narratives. And it will not break under the weight of conspiracy. Let all patriots rally to the defence of truth, justice, and constitutional order. Let us remember that nations fall not only when tanks roll through streets — but also when lies, repeated often enough, begin to sound like truth.

    “We have come too far to be dragged backward by petty ambition disguised as activism. Let us reject the agents of sabotage — not because they threaten one man, but because they threaten all of us.”

  • Osun 2026: APC will defeat Adeleke — Oyinlola ex-SSG boast 

    Osun 2026: APC will defeat Adeleke — Oyinlola ex-SSG boast 

    …I’m now in APC—Adio

    Former Secretary to the Osun State Government under Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Prince Kazeem Adio, has expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will defeat Governor Ademola Adeleke in the 2026 governorship election.

    Speaking with The Nation on Friday, Adio, a former chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissed claims that he only recently joined the APC. He clarified that he had been a member of the party for some time and had actively participated in its affairs before the news of his defection surfaced.

    Read Also: 2026: Oyinlola endorses Adeleke for second term

    “I did not just join the APC,” he said. “I have been in the party long before it went viral that I was seen at an APC meeting today.”

    He noted that his involvement in APC activities predates the public attention his defection has recently garnered.

    Commenting on the upcoming 2026 governorship election, Adio stated confidently: “I am 100 percent sure that APC will win the election. Adeleke will be defeated.”

  • Erin-Osun Chief Imam urges warring communities to embrace peace efforts

    Erin-Osun Chief Imam urges warring communities to embrace peace efforts

    The Chief Imam of Gbobamu, Erin-Osun, Sheikh Robin Olawale, has called on traditional rulers and stakeholders in the warring communities of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin-Osun to support and embrace the peace resolution initiative led by the committee set up by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.

    Sheikh Olawale, who is also the founder of Darus Salam Herbal and Alternative Centre, made the appeal during his Friday sermon at the mosque.

    He commended the Elerin of Erin-Osun, Oba Yusuf Omoloye, and his chiefs for their efforts in promoting peace and unity during the conflict, describing their roles as unifying and commendable.

    The cleric further urged Oba Omoloye to forgive all hurtful and misguided statements made against him during the crisis, stressing the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation.

    According to him, “Religious leaders must play a vital role in advocating peace and finding lasting solutions to the Ifon/Ilobu and Erin-Osun crisis. We must continue to preach love, tolerance, and unity among the people of these communities.”

    Read Also: Kebbi communities to mining firm: vacate our land

    “All these crises will chase away development in these communities, we are trading away our growth for communal clashes, our towns are becoming desolate every day and we have now become refugees in our neighbouring communities.”

    He said “I must commend the Elerin of Erin-Osun, Oba Yusuf Omoloye for the fatherly role he played during the crisis, he demonstrated capacity as his chiefs, Elerin-In-Council helped him with good advice.

    “He has preached peace and made himself as an instrument of peace during the crisis. As the Chief Imam, I want deeply apologise to the king for any misguided utterance against him during the period, it is part of those things that leader will encounter.” 

    I want to use the opportunity to implore the traditional rulers of these community to accept the outcome of the Government peace panel, it will go a long way to forever resolve the crisis, he added. 

  • Lagos council chair cleared of N1.9bn misappropriation allegation

    Lagos council chair cleared of N1.9bn misappropriation allegation

    The allegation of misappropriating N1.9 billion, which was the 2023 budget of Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area of Lagos State, levelled against the council chairman, Hon. John Campos Ogundare, has been dismissed.

    A petition by a group known as Concerned Residents of Eti-Osa East LCDA had accused Ogundare of violating the 2023 appropriation law by allegedly diverting funds to projects and expenditures not covered by the budget. The petition, submitted in April 2024 and titled “Call for Suspension of the Chairman of Eti-Osa East LCDA over Allegations of Misappropriation of N1.9 Billion from the 2023 Budget”, was also addressed to the State Audit Service Commission.

    Speaking at the time, the group’s coordinator, Comrade Segun Williams, cited multiple allegations, including failure to disburse running costs to departments, neglecting payments to past political office holders, unauthorised project executions, and lack of transparency in financial records.

    Following the petition and a protest at the Assembly Complex, supporters of Ogundare—including All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in the area—staged a counter-protest defending the chairman’s integrity and transparency in office.

    It was gathered that the Lagos State House of Assembly found no evidence to support the claims and subsequently cleared Hon. Ogundare of any wrongdoing.

    “The Assembly has long cleared the Chairman of the allegations after its committee’s investigation found no incriminating evidence against him.

    Read Also: Woman leader hails council chair

    “The State Audit Service Commission, instigated by the petition, subjected the 2023 budget performance of the council to a thorough audit, an exercise that was done twice in three months; and on both occasions, the allegations proved unfounded,” sources familiar with the matter said.

    The report said the investigations carried out by the House of Assembly and Audit Service Commission revealed that the Eti-Osa East LCDA’s Revenue for the Year 2023, with federal, state allocation, and internally generated revenues combined, amounted to N1.4 billion.

    “The discovery gave the lie to the allegations as it shows clearly that the accusation was baseless and misleading because it is impossible to appropriate an amount that was never received,” sources explained.

    It was further gathered that the fact of the matter, rather than the alleged fiction peddled by the petitioners, propelled the Council’s legislative arm to pass to the council chairman their resolution at a plenary on the matter.

    “In fact the councillors had set the records straight on the part they played in the allegations via a communication to the Executive Chairman in which they said they held a plenary where they declared that at no time did they accuse Ogundare of misappropriating N1.9 billion.

    “They said the only thing they did then was to seek explanation on the year 2023 budget from the Chairman, and found it curious that their position was deliberately misrepresented in order to tar the council leadership with the corruption brush,” a source in the Assembly said.

  • Chairmanship aspirant challenges youths to join politics

    Chairmanship aspirant challenges youths to join politics

    Chairmanship aspirant for Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos, Comrade Abdul-Salam Ashade has challenged youths to join politics to address long standing problems. 

    These challenges, according to him, include weak job creation, entrepreneurial prospects and poverty reduction. 

    He said they can fix these challenges by joining politics and seeking elective offices.

    Ashade spoke with newsmen ahead of his official campaign flagship in Iworo.

    The aspirant, who said he keyed into the opportunity of not too young to run, emphasised the importance of putting aside tribal and regional biases to build a stronger institution and more United Nigeria 

    He said youths should join politics for community development projects and support initiatives that promote education, healthcare and economic empowerment.

    Read Also: Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA empowers artisans, traders with N100m cash grant

    Ashade said he will introduce the SCHOOL Agenda, a comprehensive plan aimed at empowering youth and fostering inclusive development. 

    He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for actively working to institutionalise youth participation by proposing legislation that mandates a minimum of 30% youth representation across all tiers of government. 

    This initiative, he said, underscores the administration’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians and ensuring their voices are integral to national decision-making processes.  

    He also commended The All Progressives Congress (APC) for demonstrating dedication to youth inclusion by establishing strategic lobby committees aimed at increasing young people’s participation in party activities and leadership positions, especially at the ward and local government levels. 

    In alignment with these national efforts, h earnestly appealed to the APC Apex leaders and Olorunda LCDA  resident to support him for the chairmanship position. 

  • The Nation Editor Adesina win ‘Omoluabi’ Royal Icon awards

    The Nation Editor Adesina win ‘Omoluabi’ Royal Icon awards

    The Nation newspaper and its Daily Editor, Mr. Niyi Adesina, were honoured on Thursday with the prestigious 2025 ‘Omoluabi’ Royal Icon Awards in recognition of their contributions to journalism and Yoruba cultural values.

    The awards were presented by the Yoruba Council Worldwide (Igbimo Apapo Yoruba Lagbaye) as part of events marking its 26th anniversary and the 7th edition of the World Omoluabi Festival Award.

    The Nation received the ‘Iroyin Omoluabi Oodua Agbaye’ award for its integrity, excellence, and dedication to promoting the Yoruba cultural heritage through responsible journalism.

    Mr. Adesina was honoured with the ‘Aare Baroyin Omoluabi Oodua Agbaye*’ title for his character, professionalism, and contributions to preserving Yoruba values.

    Other recipients included Leadership Newspaper and Penpushing Media for their support of Yoruba cultural identity.

    Hadjia Anthonia Adunni Ifeyinwa Omowole, head of Editorial Operations at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and former NAWOJ President, was also recognised with the ‘Yeye Atayese Omoluabi Oodua Agbaye’ award.

    The colourful ceremony took place at the Cinema Hall of the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State, and was attended by traditional rulers from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, including the Republic of Benin and Togo.

    Royal Grand Patrons of the event included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the newly coronated Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Hakeem Owoade.

    Speaking at the YCW’s anniversary, the Council’s Global President, Hassan Oladotun, said the Omoluabi Royal Icon award, tagged: “Isokan Omoluabi 2025” was packaged to celebrate Yoruba’s cultural heritage, as well as recognise awardees’ individual contributions to national development.

    Earlier in his welcome address, Oladotun emphasised the core objectives towards the actualisation of the age-long ancestral Yoruba Development Agenda, which he noted would be in the overall benefits of the generations “and yet unborn”.

    Read Also: Osun clinches climate action awards

    He called for the repeal of the Land Use Act enacted in 1978 by the Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo-led military administration.

    In his lecture titled: “Yoruba Agenda: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”, the guest lecturer, a Professor from the Department of Archeology and Anthropology, University of Ibadan,  Aderemi Ajala urged the federal government to evolve means through which some possible cardinal objectives in the Yoruba Development Agenda can be adopted for the nation’s development.

    Other eminent awardees at the event included the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Angel Adelaja-Kuye, as well as other well-to-do members of the Nigerian society. 

  • Seyi Tinubu denies involvement in alleged attack at NANS inauguration

    Seyi Tinubu denies involvement in alleged attack at NANS inauguration

    Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has firmly denied allegations by the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Atiku Abubakar Isah, accusing him of orchestrating a violent attack during the students’ inauguration event in Abuja.

    Isah had claimed that armed thugs loyal to Seyi Tinubu invaded The Wells Carlton Hotel in Asokoro, disrupting the event with cutlasses and firearms.

    He alleged that the attackers stabbed participants, looted property, and forced dignitaries, including Senator Ibrahim Shekarau and former Governor Idris Wada, to flee the scene.

    Describing the incident as politically motivated, Isah linked the attack to an alleged attempt to bribe and silence him.

    In a swift response shared on his official Instagram page, Seyi Tinubu dismissed the allegations as entirely false, baseless, and defamatory.

    “I have never held a meeting to discuss any subject matter with Comrade Isah in Lagos or anywhere else in the world,” Seyi wrote.

    Read Also: ‘Seyi Tinubu not behind alleged abduction of self-acclaimed NANS President’

    “I have never knowingly met him before. Neither did I visit any location with thugs. All these allegations by Atiku Isah are completely fictional.”

    Expressing disbelief, he added: “Wow…how can someone lie with so much confidence? Wow wow…an attempt to defame any character. May God be with you, Comrade Atiku Isah.”

    Seyi Tinubu’s statement has drawn support from his followers, many of whom called for a formal investigation to clear the air.

    Recall that as of now, no official complaint has been filed against him.

  • Alaafin seeks unity among palace workers

    Alaafin seeks unity among palace workers

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has said with the current corporate landscape, emphasis on building strong and healthy relationships within the workforce cannot be overstated.

    The relationships, he noted, were pivotal not just for the smooth functioning of day-to-day operations, but also for fostering an organisational culture that promoted long-term success.

    Read Also: Alaafin of Oyo urged to foster unity among Yoruba Obas

    According to the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch spoke yesterday while addressing palace workers at a maiden meeting in his private residence at Boroboro area of Oyo town.

    Oba Owoade said strong and healthy relationships among the palace workforce would lay groundwork for effective collaboration.

  • Unleashed4Takeover 3.0: The future belongs to us, Minister of Youth tells Nigerian Youth

    Unleashed4Takeover 3.0: The future belongs to us, Minister of Youth tells Nigerian Youth

    The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande has called on Nigerian youths to capitalise on the opportunities presented by President Bola Tinubu’s led administration, to empower young people.

    The Minister who stated this during the Unleashed4Takeover 3.0 organized by Nedcomoaks Group and subsidiary Victoria Crest Homes and Citadel Views Estate, disclosed that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, youth development is no longer a promise, it is a policicy and a priority.

    The epic event with theme: “NextGen Nation Builders: Youthful Impact, Limitless Possibilities witnessed a large turnout of youths at the popular Balmoral Convention Centre, Lagos. Also at the events were big players in real estate and tech sector.

    The Minister who commended the convener of Unleash for Takeover, Group Managing Director, Dr Kennedy Okonkwo, for organising such event, stated that the Tinubu administration understands that young people are not just the future, they represent the possibilities of today. This is why Mr. President has taken bold steps to integrate young people into the heart of governance, leadership, and innovation.

    According to him, “Keeping to his promise of youth inclusion in governance, President Bola Tinubu has committed to a impressive policy of 30% youth inclusion in governance, with emphasis on gender equality.

    “The Tinubu administration is building a system and the enabling environment to support businesses to thrive,” the minister added.

    The convener, Group Managing Director, Dr. Kennedy Okonkwo had during his welcome address, revealed that Unleashed4Takeover 3.0 was a gathering of dreamers, doers, and destiny-shapers.

    According to him, “When we first envisioned Unleashed for Takeover, it was more than just another leadership conference. It was a call, a bold invitation for young people to rise, to own their narratives, and to shape the future they desire.

    “Over the past editions, we have witnessed sparks turn into flames, and voices once hidden grow into forces of influence. Today, standing on the shoulders of those brave beginnings, we launch forward with even greater purpose under the theme: “NextGen Nation Builders: Youthful Impact, Limitless Possibilities.”

    This theme is not just a slogan, it is a charge. “It reminds us that Nigeria’s greatest hope lies in its youth. In your creativity, your resilience, your passion, and your limitless possibilities.

    “As you sit among and listen to our impressive line up of speakers and panelists who are visionaries, industry leaders, policy makers, and dream-chasers, I urge you to soak in every moment. Build relationships, challenge ideas, share your story. And most importantly, leave here knowing that you are not waiting for the future, you are already creating it.

    “Together, we are building a generation that will not just take over but transform nations. Welcome once again to a defining moment. The stage is set. The future is calling. And history is watching. Now, let’s be Unleashed.

  • Workers’ Day: FIRS staff experiencing better under Dr. Zacch Adedeji

    Workers’ Day: FIRS staff experiencing better under Dr. Zacch Adedeji

    By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi

    Another Workers Day is unto us, and it’s a good time to ask ourselves some questions. What does this day mean to Nigerian workers? Is it just about sharing posters and saying “well done” online, or is it a time to look closely at what has changed in our workplaces? Are workers better off today than they were last year or the previous? Are they seen, heard, and treated with respect? These are the questions, especially for those in positions of leadership. 

    Staff at the Federal Inland Revenue Service under the leadership of Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, across the country are not just celebrating the day for its own sake. There is a genuine reason to celebrate. 

    Thousands of these workers are coming together in appreciation of a work environment that is safer, more supportive, and far more rewarding than it used to be. People are not just showing up to do their jobs; they are showing up with purpose, pride, and a sense of belonging.

    For 70 years, FIRS held on to the same tradition. Celebrations were routine and staff progression was a tough, tiring journey. Promotions came with fear, not hope. It was a system that drained more than it rewarded. But last year, everything changed. We saw something different. 

    For the first time in decades, staff could experience better. Dr. Zacch brought about the much-needed change, a new era. He introduced a performance-based system that made promotion fair and easy. People finally felt seen.

    That one decision has reshaped the workplace. Staff now carry themselves with confidence and pride. There is a renewed sense of purpose in how they work, and it is no longer just about fulfilling a role. 

    The atmosphere across FIRS offices reflects this change. People contribute more and believe in what they do because leadership has finally prioritized their well-being and ensured they are rewarded for their hard work. Workers are seeing the results of their efforts in improved take-home and thoughtful policies that make life more stable. 

    Read Also: $79.5b loss: FIRS prays court to dismiss Binance’s application to vacate order

    The Tax Boss understands that when people are treated right, they give their best without being asked.

    This year’s Workers’ Day message from the Tax Boss was more than just a formality. It was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the dedication and resilience that FIRS staff bring to the table every day, contributing to Nigeria’s growth and development. 

    He appreciated the people behind the progress, the men and women whose efforts drive revenue generation, taxpayer engagement, and national development. 

    He also reaffirmed the leadership’s commitment to making staff welfare a priority, supporting professional growth, and ensuring a workplace where everyone can succeed. It was a message that echoed what staff already feel, that they matter and their work truly counts in shaping the future of Nigeria.

    As we mark this Workers’ Day in Nigeria, FIRS stands as an example of what is possible when leadership focuses on people. Dr. Zacch’s approach has restored pride in public service and shown that good leadership can make work more meaningful. 

    Happy Workers’ Day.