The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • 2027: Akinbile-Yussuf mobilises participation in e-APC registration

    2027: Akinbile-Yussuf mobilises participation in e-APC registration

    A former Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Pharm. (Mrs.) Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf has engaged members of the ruling party in a sensitisation session aimed at strengthening grassroots participation in the ongoing E-APC registration exercise.

    The engagement, held recently at her residence, focused on mobilising party faithful to actively canvass residents within their communities to ensure increased registration and broader inclusion.

    At the event, emphasis was placed on the strategic importance of the E-APC registration as a tool for party growth, effective data management, and enhanced grassroots organisation.

    Party members were encouraged to take collective ownership of the exercise by serving as mobilisers and ambassadors of the party at the community level.

    READ ALSO; Poor pastor or powerful pastor?

    The sensitisation reflects the party’s commitment to deepening its grassroots presence and consolidating its membership base through digital innovation and coordinated community outreach.

    Akinbile-Yussuf  noted that the APC remains committed to strengthening its structures across wards and LGAs through sustained mobilisation and inclusive participation.

  • Awujale: Probe corruption allegations, stakeholders urge Ogun govt

    Awujale: Probe corruption allegations, stakeholders urge Ogun govt

    The Secretary of the Ijebu Council of Chiefs and Vice Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Chief (Prof.) Adetokunbo Fassy Yusuf, has urged the Ogun State Government to thoroughly investigate alleged corruption and punish individuals accused of attempting to circumvent the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland.

    Yusuf made the call at the weekend in Ijebu-Ode, where he condemned what he described as deliberate attempts by some individuals to disrupt the selection process by promoting the interests of certain candidates over others.

    He said that it was fraudulent for anyone to single out or highlight preferred candidates, stressing that the 2022 Obas and Chiefs Law does not create any dichotomy among princes, as all eligible princes are regarded as equal under the law.

    “As far as the Fusengbuwa Ruling House is concerned, we have done our part. But if there is any malpractice from our side, they should point it out. If anyone has soiled their hands, such persons should be made scapegoats. Equity demands clean hands,” he said.

    Yusuf insisted that anyone found mismanaging or undermining the process must be held accountable.

    Speaking on the suspension of the selection process, he urged the state government to clearly state the reasons for the action, noting that transparency would help ensure a smooth and credible process.

    “For the governor to suspend the process, there must be reasons. Government has all the apparatus to investigate both the immediate and remote causes. If anyone is found culpable, such a person should pay for destabilising the process,” he added.

    READ ALSO: Gov Abba Yusuf’s convoluted defection

    The high chief, who is also the Bagbimo of Ijebuland, explained that the process initially commenced with 95 nominations, which were later reduced to 86 in line with the provisions of the 2022 Obas and Chiefs Law, in order to avoid litigation.

    Yusuf, a former Ogun State Commissioner for Information expressed surprise that after adopting the template set by the kingmakers, certain names were allegedly highlighted while some Otunbas were disqualified—an action he described as “porous and reckless.”

    He clarified that the Otunba title was ceremonial, created by the immediate past Awujale to honour individuals who stood by him during political challenges, adding that it was neither traditional nor gazetted.

    “There is no document anywhere that says you cannot become Awujale if you are an Otunba,” he stated.

    Yusuf also described recent protests by some individuals as “sponsored,” noting that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House never met to collectively agree to such actions, which he described as unfortunate.

    He cautioned members of the public against relying on social media narratives, describing many online reports as fabrications capable of inciting unrest if not properly checked.

    “Most of what you read on social media are lies. As a media practitioner and scholar, I describe such activities as social chaos and social disruption. The public should be wary of patronising them,” he said.

    Also speaking, the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, Hon. Dare Alebiosu, said the selection process was suspended temporarily to prevent unwholesome practices, assuring that it would resume soon.

    He denied reports that any chief had been suspended in the town, describing such claims as false.

    “I was shocked when I heard that a chief was suspended. That is not true, and we have issued a statement to clarify the situation,” Alebiosu said.

    The council chairman assured contestants and residents of a level playing field, stressing that government had no preferred candidate but would not allow the situation to degenerate into chaos.

    One of the contestants, Prince Adegboyega Banjoko of Ile Nla Quarters, Fusengbuwa Ruling House, called for fairness and urged the government to take decisive action against anyone attempting to hijack the process.

    Another contestant, Prince Tajudeen Bello, appealed for calm and urged the government to thoroughly investigate allegations of graft involving some candidates and kingmakers, insisting that the Awujale stool “must not be left to the highest bidder.”

  • PDP’s Ajadi ally welcomes Ajirotutu 

    PDP’s Ajadi ally welcomes Ajirotutu 

    A former spokesman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the South-West and the Personal Assistant to Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Kilamuwaye Oladayo Badmus, has welcomed Hon. Wasiu Ajirotutu into the PDP.

    Ajirotutu, a former 2023 Ogun East senatorial candidate of the NNPP, officially defected to the PDP on Friday, during the PDP South-West Stakeholders’ Meeting held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    The stakeholders’ meeting, which attracted top party leaders from across the region, was described as a “turning point” for the PDP’s renewal in the South-West ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    In a statement on Saturday, Badmus described Ajirotutu’s defection as a major boost to the party’s strength in the South-West.

    He said Ajirotutu played a significant political role during his time in the NNPP, particularly during the 2023 general elections, and expressed confidence that his experience would further strengthen the PDP’s chances in the coming elections.

    Badmus said: “Hon. Wasiu Ajirotutu is a man of immense political experience and influence. His defection to the PDP is a strong signal that the party remains the most viable platform for progress and development in the South-West. We welcome him with open arms.”

    He added: “Ajirotutu’s contributions during the 2023 elections were notable. He mobilized support, strengthened party structures, and ensured that the NNPP made a meaningful impact in Ogun State. We believe that he will bring that same energy and dedication to the PDP.”

    Badmus also emphasized that the PDP is currently undergoing a strategic repositioning in the South-West, noting that the party is attracting key political actors who are committed to unity and good governance.

    Read Also: Ajadi Rescue Movement reaffirms commitment to unity, youth empowerment in Taraba

    He said: “The PDP is the party that offers the best alternative for Nigerians. Our doors are open to credible leaders who are ready to work for the welfare of the people. Ajirotutu’s arrival is a welcome development, and we look forward to working together for the success of the PDP in 2027.”

    Ajirotutu’s defection, according to political analysts, may strengthen the PDP’s presence in Ogun State, which has remained a key battleground in South-West politics.

    Speaking at the Abeokuta meeting, Ajirotutu expressed optimism about his new political home and promised to work for the party’s success.

    He said: “I am happy to join the PDP. This party has a rich history of progressive leadership and governance. I believe that together, we can deliver good governance to our people.”

    Political observers say Ajirotutu’s defection could have a ripple effect, as more political leaders may follow suit in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

  • Abiodun sets up committee for state burial of ex-Ogun First Lady, Lucia Onabanjo

    Abiodun sets up committee for state burial of ex-Ogun First Lady, Lucia Onabanjo

    Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced the constitution of a committee to organise a befitting burial for the former First Lady of the state, Chief Mrs. Lucia Onabanjo.

    The committee will be chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi. Other members include the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, Mr. Dare Alebiosu, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo.

    Governor Abiodun disclosed this on Thursday during a condolence visit to the Onabanjo family in Ijebu-Ode, following the passing of the former First Lady.

    Describing the late Mrs. Onabanjo as an exemplary First Lady, the governor said she used her position to render selfless service to God and humanity. He stressed that the state would be fully involved in giving the wife of a former governor of Ogun State, Chief Bisi Onabanjo, a dignified and well-deserved burial.

    He said, “Mama lived for 100 years and would have been 101 this year. She lived a ripe and fulfilled life, leaving behind legacies of impact that call for the celebration of a well-lived, purposeful, and meaningful existence.

    “She was married to a renowned journalist and an outstanding governor in his time, who established landmark institutions such as the Ogun State Television and the Olabisi Onabanjo University, among others.

    “Mama Lucia herself was a trained teacher, a supportive wife who travelled round the country with her husband, a devoted homemaker, a doting and loving mother, and an exemplary First Lady.”

    Governor Abiodun noted that although the state mourns her departure, there is much to be thankful for, considering the impactful life she lived.

    “Though we mourn the departure of a great woman, a titan, a former First Lady, and an industrious daughter of Ijebu land and Ogun State, we should be grateful that she lived a life worthy of emulation,” he said.

    He also urged people to live lives of positive impact, noting that death is inevitable regardless of age.

    “No matter how long a man lives on earth, death is certain. It is only a question of when God will call us home,” the governor added.

    While acknowledging that Mrs. Onabanjo lived to a ripe age, Governor Abiodun described her death as a great loss not only to her family but also to Ogun State and the country at large.

    He prayed for the repose of her soul and urged members of the family to take solace in the fact that she lived and departed honourably.

    Speaking on behalf of the family, Barrister Bukola Onabanjo recounted the events leading to her mother’s final moments and expressed gratitude for the godly upbringing she gave her children.

    She also appreciated Governor Abiodun, the Ogun State Government, and the people of the state for their support and solidarity with the family.

    Late Chief Mrs. Lucia Onabanjo was born on October 26, 1925, and passed away on January 12, 2026.

  • 10,000 Ekiti youths, students march for Tinubu, Oyebanji

    10,000 Ekiti youths, students march for Tinubu, Oyebanji

    No fewer than 10,000 youths in Ekiti State on Friday staged a solidarity march in support of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji ahead of the 2027 general election and governorship poll in the state.

    The youths, including students, converged on the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Ajilosun, Ado Ekiti, before marching through major streets of the state capital to Fajuyi Pavilion, chanting solidarity songs in support of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji

    Addressing the youths, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Comr. Sunday Asefon said the march was organised to appreciate the people-oriented leadership of Tinubu and Oyebanji, particularly in the area of education and youth development at the federal and state levels.

    Asefon said that student dropout rates in higher institutions had reduced due to strategic education reforms initiated by the Tinubu administration, adding that bursaries, scholarships, and subventions to tertiary institutions in Ekiti had been increased.

    He explained that the rally was a clear signal of support for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, stressing that the youths and students were firmly behind his administration.

    He added that the turnout at the march demonstrated the readiness of young people in Ekiti to reward both leaders at the polls for their immense contributions to education and youth empowerment.

    Asefon urged the youths and students to reciprocate the investments by collecting their Permanent Voter Cards and voting massively for Governor Oyebanji in the June 20, 2026, governorship poll, noting that online support alone would not be counted by the electoral body.

    The Presidential aide exuded confidence that Governor Oyebanji would secure overwhelming votes in the governorship poll across the 177 wards and polling units in the state.

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of YSJ Farms, Mrs Oluwayemisi Joluwe, also mobilised support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji, calling on youths across Ekiti State to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and actively participate in the electoral process.

    She said that young people constituted a significant proportion of the country’s population and should harness their numerical strength to support leaders who had demonstrated commitment to youth empowerment, agriculture, and education.

    Joluwe urged them not to succumb to apathy, stressing that voting remained the most effective and efficient way to influence governance and secure a better future.

    She added that the Tinubu and Oyebanji administrations had introduced policies and programmes that directly benefited youths, particularly in agriculture and economic empowerment, urging young people to reciprocate the gestures by turning out massively on Election Day to support both leaders.

    The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasaoye, described the rally as a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji, saying both leaders deserved a second term in view of what he called their stellar performance in office.

    He said that the administration of Tinubu at the federal level and Oyebanji in Ekiti had delivered people-oriented policies, particularly in infrastructure, education, youth development, and the health sector. 

  • Group endorses Dennis Ayoola for Senate, backs Adeleke’s re-election bid

    Group endorses Dennis Ayoola for Senate, backs Adeleke’s re-election bid

    A youth pressure group, Osun East Youth for Good Governance (OEYGG), has endorsed Mr. Dennis Ayoola as its preferred candidate for the Osun East Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The endorsement was announced on Friday during an interview by the group’s spokesperson, Comrade Kilanko Olutayo.

    Olutayo described OEYGG as a non-partisan civic organisation committed to accountability, inclusiveness and responsive leadership, noting that the decision followed extensive consultations and evaluations of aspirants within the district.

    “As we approach the 2027 elections, it is important to clearly state our position in the interest of good governance and the future of Osun East,” he said.

    According to him, the group endorsed Dennis Ayoola Olubunmi Ojo of the Accord Party, from Ilesa East Local Government Area, citing his credibility, people-centred agenda and understanding of grassroots challenges.

    He said Osun East required effective representation focused on quality legislation, youth inclusion, grassroots development and genuine advocacy at the National Assembly.

    “Osun East deserves a breath of fresh air. We need a senator who understands the plight of youths, artisans, traders and professionals. Dennis Ayoola represents hope, capacity and a departure from recycled leadership,” Olutayo added.

    The group also called on residents of Osun State to support Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term, commending his administration’s performance in infrastructure development, workers’ welfare, education, healthcare and youth empowerment.

    Olutayo said the Adeleke-led government had restored public confidence in governance through policies that directly impact ordinary citizens.

    “From road construction to improved workers’ welfare and inclusive governance, the present administration has demonstrated that democracy can deliver tangible benefits,” he said.

    OEYGG urged voters, particularly young people, to remain politically active and participate peacefully in the democratic process, stressing that the 2027 elections would shape the future of Osun East and the state at large.

    “The election is about the future. Voters should look beyond party lines and support candidates who truly represent the aspirations of the people, the group said. 

  • Hamzat hosts Epe Club, pledges support

    Hamzat hosts Epe Club, pledges support

    Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat has hosted members of Epe Club on a courtesy visit, during which the group briefed him on its growing activities and sought his support for ongoing projects and a forthcoming programme to honour a prominent community leader.

    Receiving the delegation, the deputy governor described the visit as a family meeting, noting that discussions centred on the progress of Epe Club and development issues within the Epe Division.

    “We are just brothers talking about the club and Epe Division generally. We are also talking about an icon, our father, Alhaji Seriki, popularly called Baba Bamu. The club has decided to celebrate our leaders and icons while they are still alive,” he said.

    He lauded the initiative, saying it was important to recognise elders for their contributions during their life, rather than waiting until after their death.

    He said the planned celebration of Baba Bamu would be a grand event, while prayers were offered for the continued good health and longevity of the community leader.

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    Dr. Hamzat assured the delegation of his continued support and encouraged the club to sustain its developmental initiatives in Epe Division.

    The President of Epe Club, Olayemi Dada, said the visit was to inform the deputy governor, whom he described as the number one citizen of Epe Division, of the progress recorded by the club and solicit his support for its programmes.

    He said the club had experienced steady growth in size and membership, spreading across the six local government areas in Epe Division, with members drawn from diverse sectors, including the National Assembly, local government councils and traditional institutions.

    He said the club recently acquired an additional property as part of efforts to expand its facilities, noting that renovation works, including tiling, had begun, although more support was required to complete the project and prepare for future expansion.

    Dada also informed the deputy governor about the club’s plan to celebrate Alhaji Seriki (Baba Bamu) as an icon of Epe community on February 5 at the Regency Hall, Epe.

    “We have decided to change the narrative by celebrating our elders while they are still alive. This will be the first in a series of annual recognitions for distinguished elders, patrons and members, who have contributed significantly to the community and the club,” he said.

    He added that the club sought the deputy governor’s presence and support at the event, expressing confidence that his attendance would further galvanise participation and lend weight to the celebration.

  • Ekiti 2026: Afenifere denies endorsing ADC candidate

    Ekiti 2026: Afenifere denies endorsing ADC candidate

    • Backs Oyebanji

    Ekiti State chapter of Afenifere has denied reports linking the Yoruba socio-political group to the endorsement of the governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the June 2026 election, Amb. Dare Bejide.

    In a statement yesterday by its Publicity Secretary, Biodun Akin-Fasae, the organisation led by Elder Jonathan Alade and Secretary, Chief  Ronke Okusanya, disowned a group claiming to speak for the organisation, describing it as fake and unrecognised.

    The group said individuals parading themselves as leaders and members of Afenifere were not known to the Ekiti chapter and had no mandate to act or speak on its behalf.

    The organisation said the group allegedly led by Olayemi Olajuyinmi was not listed in its membership register and had no affiliation with Afenifere in the state.

    READ ALSO: When hospitals kill

    It accused the group of attempting to exploit the name and reputation of Afenifere for personal and political interests, urging the public to disregard any statement credited to it.

    Reaffirming its political position, Afenifere said it remained aligned with All Progressives Congress  (APC) and supported the re-election bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, whom it said deserved second term.

    The group stressed that it had no relationship with ADC or any other political party outside APC, insisting that any contrary claim was false and misleading.

    It, therefore, urged the public to be vigilant and not fall for what it described as attempts by political opportunists to create confusion ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

  • Governor Abiodun okays Sagamu–Ode, Ajaka, Ogijo roads

    Governor Abiodun okays Sagamu–Ode, Ajaka, Ogijo roads

    • ’Infrastructure remains engine of development’

    • Sagamu–Ayepe Road inaugurated

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved the building of major road projects in Sagamu Local Government, including Sagamu–Ode Road, Fadebo Street, Ajaka Road and Likosi–Ogijo Road.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure as a catalyst for socio-economic development.

    The governor disclosed this yesterday while inaugurating the newly completed Sagamu–Ayepe Road.

    He described road infrastructure as a critical driver of economic activities, connectivity and overall development.

    Abiodun said his administration would continue to invest in the construction and rehabilitation of roads across the state, despite the huge backlog of neglected infrastructure inherited from previous administrations.

    “Road infrastructure is a major economic enabler. This particular road connects Sagamu to Odogbolu and several densely populated communities. It is an extremely important economic corridor. This is why we have prioritised it,” he said.

    He lamented that many roads across Ogun State had suffered years of neglect, noting that while his administration had made significant interventions, several others still required urgent attention.

    READ ALSO: When hospitals kill

    Besides road infrastructure, Governor Abiodun said his government had also recorded notable interventions in critical sectors such as health, education, housing and sports, stressing that the administration remained focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

    “We will not be distracted by rabble-rousers. Our focus remains governance and improving the quality of life of our people,” he said.

    The Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Jubril Odulate, said Ayepe Road, which linked Sagamu with neighbouring local governments, had been abandoned for years and left in a deplorable condition before the intervention of the state government.

    He said the rebuilding of the road aligned with the state government’s ISEYA development agenda, adding that the local government had complemented the effort through the construction of Awokoya Road.

    Oba Musliu Soile, who represented the Akarigbo of Remoland, described the road project as a major relief to residents, noting it would ease hardship and boost commercial activities within the axis.

    The National President of Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle, Repairer and Riders Association (ACOMORAN), Alhaji Shamseeden Apelogun, commended the state government, saying the improved road network would reduce hardship for riders, stimulate economic activities and attract more investors to the community.

  • No plan to impose Awujale, says govt

    No plan to impose Awujale, says govt

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has clarified circulating reports suggesting a confrontation between him and the Council of Afobajes, regarding Awujale selection.

    According to sources, ‘’these claims are false and misleading.’’

    The sources added: ‘’Governor Abiodun held a consultative meeting with the Council of Afobajes, consistent with the meetings he held in the past with the Olori Ebis that were hitherto polarised, which fostered their harmonisation and, through such earlier engagements, he also persuaded one of the kingmakers to withdraw a filed litigation.

    ‘’The discussions he had focused on matters of mutual concern in the interest of the progress in traditional affairs within Ijebuland.

    READ ALSO: Critical success factors for Nigeria’s economy this year

    ‘’Contrary to the rumours, Governor Abiodun did not issue threats and ultimatums. The statements attributed to him, including “No Kuye, No Awujale”, are entirely fabricated and bear no relation to the governor or his administration. No Afobaje will attest to such an occurrence, as it never happened. This is once again the fabrication of falsehoods by mischief makers.

    ‘’The governor remains committed to upholding due process, respecting the autonomy of traditional institutions and ensuring a fair process in the selection of a new Awujale for Ijebuland. His administration continues to prioritise dialogue, harmony and the preservation of cultural values.

    We all know how highly the governor holds the throne of Awujale, which he has consistently demonstrated .

    ‘’The public, traditional stakeholders and the media are urged to disregard these unfounded insinuations and rely on verified information from official sources.’’