The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Forum commends Ogun govt’s plan to stop illegal miners

    Forum commends Ogun govt’s plan to stop illegal miners

    The Ibile Justice Forum, an advocacy group fighting the cause of justice, has praised the Ogun State government for its decisive action towards ending the menace of illegal mining across the state.

    This commendation followed the intervention of the State Government, which on Tuesday ordered the cessation of all illegal mining activities across the state including some communities in Iloro I, Iloro II and Ibiri village in the Ado-Odo area of Ogun State, allegedly by SAF Investment and Property Company Limited. 

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Bolu Owootomo, had on Tuesday, reiterated the State Government commitments towards safeguarding farmlands, a goal, he said, remains a top priority of the administration.

    The State Government reportedly ordered the immediate cessation of the unauthorised mining activities in the communities by the company.

    According to the Commissioner, no directive was issued by the State Government permitting the company to mine in the area, prompting swift intervention once the activities were discovered.

    “Upon becoming aware of the situation, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security engaged the company directly. The company acknowledged the concerns raised and agreed to halt all operations at the site immediately,” Owootomo said.

    He added that the company has commenced the evacuation of its equipment and materials from the affected locations, noting that the process is already underway.

    “To ensure compliance, formal communication, including a written notice, has been issued to document the agreement,” he stated.

    The Commissioner further assured residents of the affected communities that SAF Investment and Property Company Limited would no longer operate in the area, emphasising that monitoring and enforcement measures remain in force to prevent future violations.

    In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Ifeoluwa Amoo and Comrade Ganiu Owolabi, the Forum described the government’s action has indeed heartening and something to cheer about.

    According to the group, the state government’s timely intervention coming at this critical point in time is indeed reassuring and gives a sense that the lives of the less privileged people matter too.

    In the statement which reads in part, the Forum said: “We are immensely grateful to the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led government for its prompt intervention to nip the menace of illegal mining activities across the state in the bud and feel very strongly that such gestures would send the right signal to the downtrodden that their lives and livelihoods also matter in the scheme of things.

    “We are indeed persuaded that such ill-conceived, selfish motives by a section of the public aimed to achieve selfish interests of a few, would not arise again and we also hope that members of the communities wherever they need to take ownership of their land by observing internal vigilance of their environment and be ready to call out anyone who acts in ways that would further undermine the peace and stability of their communities going forward.

    “Again, we reiterate that the state government must as a matter of urgency ensure that companies involved in all manner of illegalities including economic sabotage and other actions capable of jeopardizing public interest must be treated as the criminals they are and made to face the wrath of the law with no mercy whatsoever.”

  • Osun: Southwest APC rallies Omisore, Babayemi for victory

    Osun: Southwest APC rallies Omisore, Babayemi for victory

    • Party also woos other aspirants
    • Oyebamiji’s emergence unsettles PDP

    Ahead of Osun State 2026 governorship election billed for August 8, the State Working Committee (SWC) of All Progressives Congress (APC) has rallied the eight governorship aspirants to close ranks and work as a united front ahead of the poll.

    The party said the emergence of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) as the party’s standard-bearer has sent jitters into the ruling party’s camp.

    A statement yesterday by the party’s Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, said rising from APC maiden meeting in the new year, the state Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, was full of praises for the eight governorship aspirants, who embraced the emergence of Oyebamiji without resorting to crisis, rancour and animosity.

    The statement said: “Lawal also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, the leadership of Agba Osun and other personalities, whose roles manifested in the successful emergence of one out of all the qualified governorship aspirants.

    “The successful conduct of the party’s governorship election, which culminated in the seamless emergence of Asiwaju Oyebamiji, has sent jitters into the camp of the ruling party and others, as their hitherto sing-song had been that the exercise would be a recipe for imminent implosion.

    “Lawal explained that the prevalent peace and tranquillity being enjoyed in the party today is due to the successful conduct of the governorship primary election, which was made possible by the embracing of the culture of supremacy of the party by the eight aspirants.

    Read Also: Oyo APC leaders declare full support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid

    “He said the names of the eight governorship aspirants, who did not allow their aspirations to bring down the roof of the party, shall be written in gold in the political history of the party in the state.

    “Otunba Iyiola Omisore, former deputy governor, one-time senator and former national secretary of the APC; Omooba Dotun Babayemi, a lawyer and businessman; Mr. Benedict Alabi, former deputy governor; Dr. Akinde Ogunbiyi, an insurance magnate; Mr. Kunle Adegoke(SAN), a reputable and successful legal practitioner.

    “Also, Mr. Babajide Omoworare, a lawyer, former senator, ex-House of Assembly member in Lagos State and former aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari; Dr Mulikat Jimoh, former member of House of Assembly and Mr. Babatunde Oralusi, a development financier, as the governorship aspirants are responsible for sustaining peace in the party.

    “Lawal enjoined the aspirants to continue to inform their lieutenants and supporters on the need for the party to go into the August 8, 2026 governorship election as an indivisible and impenetrable team with a view to winning the election and chasing Governor Ademola Adeleke back to his Ede country home.”

    He said both formal and informal reconciliation exercises were ongoing in the party, but it was imperative for him to single out the governorship aspirants, who had proved by their actions and inactions that they were complete party men come rain or shine.

  • 448 Ogun Tech interns get letters

    448 Ogun Tech interns get letters

    Ogun State Government has engaged 448 interns under the Ogun Tech programme and issued them engagement and posting letters, as part of efforts to address the shortage of teachers in public primary schools, particularly in rural communities.

    The letters were formally presented to the successful applicants at the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Secretariat in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

    Speaking at the presentation ceremony, SUBEB Chairman, Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, said the recruitment was deliberately targeted at strengthening manpower in rural schools.

    He urged the interns to accept their postings with commitment and responsibility, warning against requests for redeployment.

    “The moment anyone calls me to seek a change of posting, we will remove the person’s name immediately. There are many others seeking this opportunity, and you should appreciate Governor Dapo Abiodun for making this engagement possible,” Ifede said.

    He directed the interns to resume duty immediately, noting that failure to do so would lead to automatic replacement.

    He stressed the importance of prompt submission of assumption-of-duty documents to ensure timely salary processing.

    Read Also: Ogun government plans 3,000 affordable housing units for low-income earners

    “We do not want your payment to be delayed. Salary processing will only begin for those who submit their assumption-of-duty documents early,” he said.

    Ifede urged the interns to work harmoniously with head teachers and colleagues, describing the engagement as a call to service rather than an entitlement.

    He said dedication, discipline and performance would determine their chances of permanent appointment.

    “Basic education is the foundation of our system. We need teachers who are determined and committed to ensuring pupils can read, write and communicate effectively,” he said.

    SUBEB Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr. Femi Fatade, said the selection process was strictly merit-based, noting that postings were carried out according to the specific needs of rural schools across the state.

    Responding on behalf of the interns, Mr. Adedayo Taiwo expressed gratitude to Ogun State Government under Governor Abiodun, noting that the beneficiaries would discharge their duties diligently.

  • ‘New tax reform structured to protect low-income earners’

    ‘New tax reform structured to protect low-income earners’

    Lagos State chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it has observed with concern, the wave of misinformation, sensationalism and deliberate political mischief surrounding Federal Government’s new tax reform agenda.

    The party in a statement yesterday by its spokesman Seye Oladejo in Ogba, said: ‘’We consider it imperative, in the interest of truth, national stability and informed civic engagement, to set the records straight – beyond politics.

    ‘’First, it must be stated that the new tax reform is not a weapon against the poor, nor is it an attempt to overburden struggling Nigerians. On the contrary, the reform is deliberately structured to protect low-income earners, expand exemptions and introduce a more progressive, fair and humane tax system that aligns with global best practices.

    ‘’Contrary to the alarmist narratives peddled by the opposition, Nigerians earning within the lowest income brackets are either fully exempted or will experience reduced tax exposure under the new regime. The reform targets efficiency, equity and accountability – not punishment. Those who have chosen to weaponise falsehoods against this policy have done so out of either ignorance or calculated desperation.

    ‘’The truth is simple: Nigeria can no longer run a modern economy on an archaic, fragmented and oil-dependent tax structure. For decades, the nation suffered from multiple taxation, overlapping mandates, leakages and weak enforcement -a system that stifled businesses, discouraged investment and rewarded tax evasion. This reform decisively confronts those failures.

    Read Also: New tax reform implementation won’t lead to tuition fee hike, FG assures students

    ‘’For businesses, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the reform simplifies compliance, removes nuisance taxes and creates a more predictable fiscal environment. For large corporations, it promotes fairness by ensuring profitable entities contribute their equitable share to national development. This is not anti-business; it is pro-growth, pro-investment and pro-Nigeria.

    ‘’It is also important to emphasise that taxation is not an end in itself. It is a means to fund infrastructure, education, health care, security and social protection. Nations that develop do so on the strength of a functional social contract -where citizens contribute and governments deliver. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is rebuilding that contract with courage and clarity.

    ‘’Lagos APC therefore urges Nigerians to resist the politics of fear and distortion. Let us not reduce serious fiscal reforms to cheap political talking points. The same voices shouting today are those who presided over years of fiscal indiscipline, economic stagnation and policy incoherence. They lack moral authority and intellectual honesty to lecture Nigerians on economic management.

    ‘’We acknowledge that reforms of this magnitude require continuous public engagement, transparency and sensitivity in implementation. Constructive criticism is welcome. Falsehoods, however, will be firmly rejected.

    ‘’History has shown that difficult, but necessary decisions are the hallmark of responsible leadership. The new tax reform is one such decision – designed not for the next election cycle, but for the next generation.

    ‘’Beyond politics, beyond propaganda and beyond fear -the truth is that Nigeria is laying the foundation for a stronger, fairer and more sustainable economic future.’’

  • Tinubu, Abiodun celebrate Ogun deputy governor at 60

    Tinubu, Abiodun celebrate Ogun deputy governor at 60

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, on her 60th birthday, describing her as a consummate professional who has brought discipline, hard work and creativity into public service.

    In a statement issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Salako-Oyedele’s professional background and leadership qualities, noting that her experience in the private sector had translated into effective governance since she assumed office in 2019.

    President Tinubu commended the deputy governor for her resilience and steadfastness, saying her stewardship reflected a strong commitment to purpose and a progressive ethos in the administration of Ogun State.

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has also congratulated Salako-Oyedele as she turns 60.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s economic, governance reforms commendable – NYF

    He described her as an able lieutenant, whose leadership and commitment had been instrumental to the success of his administration.

    Governor Abiodun, in a congratulatory message, said the deputy governor had demonstrated rare leadership qualities and contributed to the implementation of the administration’s “Building Our Future Together” Agenda.

    He noted that her journey as an accomplished engineer, administrator and public servant had been nothing short of extraordinary.

    The governor said Salako-Oyedele had remained a source of inspiration to women, young professionals and the people of Ogun State, adding that her wise counsel, diligence and commitment to excellence had enhanced the stability and effectiveness of his administration.

    “With your support, loyalty and collaborative spirit, we have been able to deliver on our mandate and positively impact the lives of our people,” Abiodun said.

    He noted that the milestone of 60 years provided an opportunity to celebrate a life marked by purposeful leadership, dedication and outstanding service.

    He prayed Almighty Allah to grant the deputy governor good health, renewed vigour and many more fruitful years in the service of humanity, while rewarding her efforts with greater accomplishments.

    Also congratulating Salako-Oyedele, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described her as a trailblazer, who had lived and led with integrity, vision and hard work.

    “Throughout your career, you have provided a master-class in balancing professional excellence with compassionate, people-centred leadership. On behalf of Nigerian women, children, families and other vulnerable groups we serve, we salute your contributions to governance and your commitment to the uplift of women and children,” the minister said.

    Ekiti State Deputy Governor Chief Monisade Afuye described the Ogun deputy governor as an amazon of loyalty, noting that Salako-Oyedele was a dependable political ally, whose relationship with her was strengthened by loyalty and steadfast support for her principal, Ogun State governor.

    Among other well-wishers was the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Alpha Morgan Bank, Mr. Ade Buraimo, who, on behalf of the management and workers of the organisation, extended warm felicitations to the deputy governor.

    He says the celebration goes beyond the number of years attained, but honours a legacy defined by purpose, service and positive public influence.

  • Fusengbuwa House gets clearance to resume process of selecting Awujale

    Fusengbuwa House gets clearance to resume process of selecting Awujale

    Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebuland has received clearance to resume the process of selecting the next Awujale, after a momentary halt to the initial exercise on the order of Ogun State Government.

    The resumption followed a letter dated January 6, 2026, addressed to the head of the family by Ijebu Ode Local Government, authorising Fusengbuwa Ruling House to “begin the process of filling the vacant stool of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.”

    The stool became vacant on July 13 last year following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona, who joined his ancestors at the age of 91 after over 65 years on the throne.

    Read Also: Court dismisses KWAM 1’s application to halt selection process for next Awujale

    The letter signed by Oke Adebanjo, Secretary to the Local Government, directed Fusengbuwa Ruling House to conduct the “nomination exercise within 14 days,” starting from January 6.

    The Head of the ruling house, Otunba Lateef  Owoyemi, who confirmed this to The Nation yesterday, said sacrifices had begun  in earnest, noting that ‘’Oracle (Ifa) is playing a prominent role in the nomination process.’’

    He urged Ijebu indigenes to expect the best Awujale to emerge, ‘’as Ifa (Oracle) has been speaking clearly, convincingly and favourably in favour of Fusengbuwa Ruling House, which is the next in line to produce the next Awujale.’’

  • Lagos okays three-month rebate for replacement of faded number plates

    Lagos okays three-month rebate for replacement of faded number plates

    Lagos State Government has approved a three-month rebate window for motorists to replace faded and unreadable number plates.

    This is part of renewed efforts to enhance road safety, improve vehicle identification and strengthen security across the state.

    The approval by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary, Motor Vehicles Administration Agency (MVAA), Mr Rasheed Muri-Okunola.

    The permanent secretary described the rebate as a proactive and citizen-friendly intervention aimed at encouraging compliance, while reducing financial burden on vehicle owners.

    He said the condition of number plates was vital to effective traffic management, crime detection and overall public safety, adding that faded or illegible plates posed challenges to law enforcement agencies and traffic officials.

    “Clear and properly maintained number plates are essential for vehicle identification and security. This three-month rebate is designed to give motorists opportunity to replace faded plates at a reduced cost, while supporting our collective responsibility to keep Lagos roads safe and well-regulated,” he said.

    He stated that the rebate applied to vehicle owners whose number plates had become worn, faded, or unclear over time due to weather conditions and prolonged use.

    The permanent secretary stressed that the initiative aligned with the state’s commitment to balancing enforcement with empathy, while promoting voluntary compliance through incentives rather than penalties.

    Read Also: Faded number plates

    He noted that legible number plates played an important role in curbing traffic violations, aiding investigations and supporting digital vehicle tracking systems deployed by the state.

    “This is not just a regulatory exercise; it is a public safety measure. When number plates are clear and standardised, it improves efficiency across transportation, security and emergency response systems,” he added.

    Muri-Okunola assured the public of seamless service delivery throughout the rebate period and advised motorists to avoid unauthorised agents, noting that all replacements must be processed through designated government-approved centres.

    He reiterated the state’s commitment to innovative policies that prioritised safety, convenience and accountability.

    He urged residents to cooperate with authorities in building a safer and more orderly transport environment.

  • Oyebanji hails Odusote’s appointment

    Oyebanji hails Odusote’s appointment

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated Dr Gbemisola Odusote on her appointment as Director-General of Nigerian Law School by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He thanked the President for appointing the Ado-Ekiti-born lawyer, describing the choice as “well deserved”.

    He noted that the appointment makes Odusote the first female Director-General of Nigerian Law School.

    In a statement by his media adviser, Yinka Oyebode, the governor said he was confident Odusote would excel.

    He described her as “a distinguished scholar and a seasoned administrator” with integrity and notable academic accomplishments.

    Read Also: Oyebanji urges support for Tinubu’s reforms, peaceful conduct ahead of June guber poll

    Oyebanji urged Odusote to deploy her wealth of experience and expertise, ‘’particularly at this critical period.’’

    He enjoined her to uphold “integrity, dedication, loyalty, courage and excellence”, virtues he said define Ekiti people.

    The governor assured her of the support of Ekiti State Government and the people as she assumed office.

    He also hailed President Tinubu, saying the appointment reflected his commitment to placing competent hands in strategic positions.

  • Ibadan indigenes in UK launch books

    Ibadan indigenes in UK launch books

    The Oluyole Progressive Union, United Kingdom chapter, has launched two new books during it’s 2025 end-of-year gathering in London.

    The union reaffirmed commitment towards preservation of Ibadan history, culture and collective progress.

    The books, “Giant Strides” and “Ibadan Hegemony”, authored by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, were unveiled at a well-attended ceremony at the Denmark Hill Community Hall, Camberwell, London. 

    The event attracted Ibadan indigenes, traditional leaders and professionals in the diaspora.

    President of the Union, Alhaji Akeem Akinborode, described the book launch as significant contribution to the documentation and promotion of Ibadan’s rich historical and cultural heritage. 

    He said the union deliberately aligned the launch with its annual celebration to show the importance of intellectual engagement and cultural consciousness among Ibadan sons and daughters abroad.

    Read Also: Court okays interim forfeiture of N213.2b 57 assets by Malami, sons

    According to Akinborode, the Oluyole Progressive Union exists not only as a social platform but also as a vehicle for unity, identity and development among Ibadan indigenes in the diaspora, while maintaining strong ties with the homeland.

    Chief Launcher of the books, Alhaji Sulaiman Ajayi, commended the author for chronicling Ibadan’s leadership evolution and influence, noting that such works would serve as reference materials for future generations.

    The event, which also doubled as the union’s end-of-year party, featured cultural displays, networking, donations and a raffle draw, reflecting the communal spirit that defines Ibadan people.

    Founded in 2000 and affiliated with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), the Oluyole Progressive Union has continued to promote the welfare of Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora. 

    The association is also known for its humanitarian interventions, including regular donations to Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan.

  • Forum kicks over alleged illegal mining in Ogun communities

    Forum kicks over alleged illegal mining in Ogun communities

    Apparently miffed by what it described as scandalous acts of economic sabotage, the Ibile Justice Forum, an advocacy group, has raised the alarm over alleged illegal mining activities in Iloro I, Iloro II and Ibiri village, all within Ado-Odo community, in Ogun State.

    In a statement on behalf of the Forum, by Comrade Ifeoluwa Amoo and Comrade Ganiu Owolabi on Tuesday, they described as worrisome attempts by the management of SAF Investment and Property Company Limited, to embark on the mining of a farm settlement otherwise dedicated to agriculture development thereby disrupting the livelihoods of the agrarian community.

    In the statement which reads in part, the duo said: “We are constrained to speak against the deliberate actions of SAF Investment and Property Company Limited, whose actions and inactions have rendered our community entirely prostrate, economically disadvantaged, environmentally unsafe with other clear and present dangers staring us in the face.

    “We are talking about a situation where our collective patrimony is being arbitrarily exploited by a company to the detriment of the community whose livelihoods have not only been hijacked but left in ruins and destruction as a result of the nefarious activities being perpetuated within their community.

    “We are even more worried that these nefarious activities are being aided and abetted by the so-called traditional institutions which ordinarily is supposed to be the custodian of the mores and customs of the community, all for their own selfish aggrandizement and craze for the filthy lucre.

    “That these illegal mining activities are  happening at this time, the federal government is trying to harness and ensure equitable distribution of the nation’s natural endowments, is also a clear affront on the powers and authorities of the federal government by an unknown entity in law and should not be allowed to stand.

    Read Also: Fed govt inaugurates committee to train one million Nigerians in digital skills

    “We are aware that the SAF Investment and Property Company Limited was directed by the Ministry of Agriculture in a memo dated January 28th, 2025, to stop all mining activities having withdrew the initial approval granted to the company on December 5th, 2024. But why the company chose to remain in site, and carry on with the exploration activities in defiance of the order by the Ministry is indeed baffling and worrisome.

    “The impression that the company can do anything unchallenged, unabated, unhindered has further heightened tension in the community, with residents living in perpetual fear and dread of what could happen to them with the continuous exploitation taking place. 

    “We therefore use this medium to call on the federal government, the Ogun State government, the Office of the Inspector General of Police to intervene in this matter to forestal a breach of public peace and harmony within the community, and rescue the people and community as a whole.”

    As at press time, all attempts to reach out to  one of the financiers of SAF Investment and Property Company Limited, Alhaji Kazeem Adebanjo Safiriyu, for comments were futile as the GSM contacts was switched off.