The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Oyo @50: Family queries omission of Adedibu’s name from Oyo merit award list

    Oyo @50: Family queries omission of Adedibu’s name from Oyo merit award list

    • …says late politician made significant contributions to Oyo, Nigeria

    The family of the late Ibadan political leader, High Chief Lamidi Akanji Ariyibi Adedibu, has raised concerns over the omission of his name from the list of personalities recommended for state honours during Oyo State’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

    The family described the exclusion as a significant oversight and called for an urgent review.

    In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Committee on Award Ceremonies for Important Personalities in Oyo State, Hon. Saheed Fijabi, and signed by the head of the Adedibu family, Prof. Abass Adedibu (JP), the family expressed disappointment that the late politician’s name was missing from the list reportedly submitted to Governor Seyi Makinde.

    “It was discovered from the list of awardees recommended to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, that Late High Chief Alhaji Lamidi Akanji Ariyibi Adedibu was missing,” the letter stated.

    The family highlighted the late Adedibu’s significant contributions to the political development of Oyo State and Nigeria. They noted his role in the establishment of the Alakia Airport in 1979 and his influence in the political processes surrounding the 1992 primaries involving the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola.

    The letter also recalled recognition by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who reportedly described Adedibu as the “Garrison Commander of Nigerian politics.”

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    Prof. Abass Adedibu emphasized that such an omission should not have occurred and urged the committee to rectify the oversight by including his name and tendering an official apology to the family.

    The Adedibu Dynasty further warned that failure to address the matter promptly could compel the family to escalate the complaint directly to Governor Makinde, questioning the objectivity of the recommendations and the committee’s review process.

    The family’s appeal underscores the enduring influence of High Chief Adedibu in the political landscape of Oyo State and the importance of appropriately acknowledging his legacy in state recognitions.

  • Pro-Tinubu group appoints Oyebanji’s aide Ekiti Director

    Pro-Tinubu group appoints Oyebanji’s aide Ekiti Director

    A pro-President Bola Tinubu group, the City Boy Movement, has appointed the Special Assistant on Media to Ekiti State Governor, Asiwaju Kasali Oluwafemi, as its Director in Ekiti State.

    The appointment, which took effect from January 1, 2026, was conveyed in a letter dated February 5, 2026,  by the Director-General of the group, Shoga Francis Oluwatosin.

    According to the letter, Oluwafemi was appointed based his competence, loyalty and commitment to the vision and core values of the movement, as well as the leadership’s confidence in his capacity to mobilise support and provide direction in the state.

    The movement stated that the new state director is expected to drive impactful change across the 16 local government of Ekiti State, including the  strategic mobilisation of support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    It added that Oluwafemi would provide visionary, strategic and administrative leadership at both the state and local government levels while building strong, disciplined and committed structures across constituencies.

    It explained that the appointee would serve as its principal representative in Ekiti State and is required to act in line with directives and strategic guidance from the National Secretariat.

    The movement disclosed that the appointment was made under the leadership of the Grand Patron of the City Boy Movement, Seyi Tinubu, and aligned with the national vision, policies and reform agenda of President Tinubu, which the group supports through youth engagement, civic participation and electoral mobilisation.

    Reacting to the appointment, Oluwafemi expressed appreciation to the leadership of the movement for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to justify the trust by strengthening the group’s structures and deepening grassroots mobilisation across the state.

    “I am honoured by this responsibility and remain committed to advancing the ideals of the City Boy Movement in Ekiti. We will work collectively to mobilise  support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections”, he added.

  • Assembly commission drums support for PCC

    Assembly commission drums support for PCC

    The Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission has assured the Federal Public Complaints Commission (PCC), of its support in achieving its ombudsman’s role in the state.

    The Chairman, House of Assembly Service Commission, Rt. Hon. Prince Suraj Adekunbi, gave the assurance during a visit by the Federal Public Complaints Commission team to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    Adekunbi, according to the Ms. Busayo Faleti, Information and Public Relations Officer, House of Assembly Service Commission, said PCC would maintain its presence in the state, while acknowledging the commission’s vital role in promoting accountability and fairness as Nigeria’s ombudsman, pledging to continue to provide legislative support for their operations in the state.

    READ ALSO: Kwara massacre belies end of Mamuda/JNIM terrorists

    Speaking, Commissioner, Federal Public Complaints Commission, Ogooluwa Akinleye, outlined the commission’s mandates to investigate and resolve complaints between government agencies and private organisations which focusing on maladministration, injustice and corruption.

    He noted that PCC had also partnered with security agencies in the state to foster accountability and transparency, promising to maintain the tempo and bring about stability, fairness, and justice to parties involved in any acrimony or conflicts.

    Akinleye explained that currently the Federal Public Complaints Commission operates through several zonal offices including Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ado-Odo/Ota, Sagamu and Yewa South with plans to expand to all local governments in order to serve as key contact points for citizens to lodge their complaints.

  • Shina Peller donates ₦5m for Kishi Education Trust Fund

    Shina Peller donates ₦5m for Kishi Education Trust Fund

    The Ayedero of Yorubaland Hon Shina Peller has donated N5m to the Kisi Education Trust Fund.

    He announced the donation during the annual Kisi Day celebrations on Saturday.  

    The event, which served as a major cultural and developmental milestone for the community, attracted prominent indigenes, traditional leaders and residents of the Oyo town.

    Addressing the gathering, Peller emphasised the critical role that education plays in the advancement of any society. 

    He noted the Trust Fund serves as a vital tool for ensuring that the youth of Kisi have access to quality learning opportunities and financial support for their academic pursuits.

    The Kisi Education Trust Fund was established to bridge the gap in educational infrastructure and provide scholarships for brilliant but underprivileged students within the community. 

    Peller’s ₦5 million contribution is expected to provide an immediate impetus for several ongoing projects spearheaded by the fund.

    Kisi Day is an annual festival celebrated by the people of Kisi (the headquarters of the Irepo Local Government Area). 

    It is a day dedicated to celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the town, discussing developmental challenges and solutions and raising funds for community-led initiatives.

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    Moreover, the annual event is aimed at strengthening the bonds between Kisi indigenes at home and in the diaspora.

    Peller, a former member of the House of Representatives representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency, attended the event not just as a statesman, but as a “son of the soil.” 

    His mother, Alhaja Silifatu Peller, hails from Kisi, a connection the former lawmaker frequently cites as a source of his commitment to the town’s progress.

     Peller said: “Education is the bedrock of any meaningful development. My mother’s roots are here, and my heart remains with the people of Kisi. 

    “We must ensure that the next generation of Kisi indigenes are equipped with the knowledge and skills to compete globally. This donation is an investment in that future.”

    The fund’s leadership expressed deep gratitude, noting that the contribution would significantly assist in:scholarship schemes such as providing tuition assistance for high-achieving students from low-income families, rehabilitating aging classrooms and providing modern learning materials to local schools and others. 

    The Iba of Kisi, HRM Oba Masoud Aweda Oyekola Lawal (Arowoduye II), with the Kisi Progressive Union (KPU), praised the gesture as a “shining example of patriotism.” 

  • Diaspora group hails Makinde as Oyo marks 50th anniversary            

    Diaspora group hails Makinde as Oyo marks 50th anniversary            

    A Nigerian professional group in the diaspora, the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his achievements in office as Oyo State marked the 50th anniversary of its creation.

    The group described Makinde’s leadership style as transformational and people-centred.

    In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Barrister Ayotomiwa Adebayo, after the week-long golden jubilee celebrations, OID said the anniversary events were the largest in the state’s history.

    According to the group, the celebration showcased Oyo State’s rich heritage, developmental strides, and future aspirations, while strengthening unity and pride among citizens.

    OID said the milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey since its creation and the progress recorded under Makinde’s administration, noting that his accomplishments compare favourably with those of previous governments.

    The group also paid tribute to the founding fathers and mothers of the state, acknowledging their sacrifices and resilience in laying the foundation for Oyo’s growth and development.

    It commended the governor’s people-centred approach to governance, integrity in public service, and commitment to sustainable development across key sectors.

    According to OID, the administration has recorded measurable progress in economic growth, job creation, infrastructure, education, healthcare delivery, security, agribusiness, renewable energy, and civil service reforms.

    The group also highlighted the prompt payment of workers’ salaries and pensioners’ gratuities, noting that fiscal discipline, accountability, and transparency have remained hallmarks of the administration.

    It added that Makinde’s governance style has restored public confidence and repositioned Oyo State as a viable destination for investment and innovation, describing his leadership as a model for good governance at both state and national levels.

    “The 50th anniversary celebration was not only a remembrance of Oyo State’s past but also a strong statement of how far the state has come under Governor Makinde. His administration has redefined governance and laid a solid foundation for long-term prosperity.”

    OID further noted that the governor’s inclusive leadership has ensured that development reaches both urban and rural communities, describing Oyo State as one of the most attractive states in the country to live, work, and invest in.

    The group congratulated the people of Oyo State on the golden jubilee and urged residents to remain united, rise above differences, and continue supporting the Makinde-led administration in consolidating existing gains to secure a stronger and more prosperous future for the state

  • I’m Oloja-elect of Lagos, says Prince Olojo-Kosoko

    I’m Oloja-elect of Lagos, says Prince Olojo-Kosoko

    Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko has declared himself as the duly selected Oloja-elect of Lagos, insisting his emergence followed due process as stipulated under the Obas and Chiefs of Lagos State Law.

    Speaking in an interview with reporters, Prince Olojo-Kosoko traced his emergence to the succession process within the Kosoko Royal Family, explaining that the Oloja of Lagos chieftaincy is regulated by law and recognised ruling houses.

    According to him, the law acknowledges nine ruling houses within the Kosoko Royal Family, with the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House—his lineage—next in line to produce the Oloja.

    “To the best of my knowledge and that of the King Kosoko Royal Family, there is only one Oloja-elect, and that is my humble self,” he said, adding that his nomination and ratification were carried out in line with established customary and legal procedures.

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    Prince Olojo-Kosoko said following the death of the last Oloja of Lagos, Chief Adebola Idris Disu Ige, in 2017, the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House was formally notified to present candidates. After an internal screening involving seven kingmakers, he emerged as the preferred candidate and was subsequently presented to the wider Oloja-in-Council for ratification.

    He said a rerun of the process was conducted to accommodate aggrieved family members, under the supervision of the family’s legal adviser. At the end of the exercise, he said all nine kingmakers unanimously endorsed him on December 12, 2020. He was formally presented to the entire Kosoko Royal Family at the Ereko Palace on December 31, 2020, and later received a letter of approval from the Olori-Ebi of the family in January 2021.

    Prince Olojo-Kosoko, however, faulted the claim by Prince Jide Kosoko to the Oloja-elect title, describing it as a “self-acclaimed” process allegedly initiated outside the recognised order of succession.

    He said the Oteniya Ruling House, from which Prince Jide Kosoko hailed, was not next in line according to the registered declaration.

    The dispute over the stool is before the court, with Prince Olojo-Kosoko saying the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House opted for legal redress to protect tradition and prevent what he described as divisive actions within the family.

    Beyond the chieftaincy dispute, Prince Olojo-Kosoko highlighted his long-standing commitment to culture, heritage preservation, tourism and environmental conservation.

    A Higher National Diploma holder in Wildlife Planning and Tourism Master Plan Designing from Lagos State Polytechnic, he serves as Chief Conservationist and curator of Origin Gardens and Zoo, and is the founder of the Museum for Climate Change.

    He also spoke on initiatives he has undertaken since his emergence as Oloja-elect, including the rehabilitation of the historic Ereko Palace, rebranding of the King Kosoko Royal Family, and the establishment of the King Kosoko Memorial Museum and annual memorial lecture.

    According to him, the projects are part of a broader vision to institutionalise the legacy of King Kosoko, educate younger generations, and reposition the family’s historical contributions within Lagos, Nigeria and the wider West African sub-region.

    “Adopting the King Kosoko name for most of the work I have embarked on since 2020 is an act of homage to our ancestors,” he said, adding that preserving heritage and strengthening family unity remain central to his aspirations as Oloja-elect of Lagos.

  • Makinde appoints adviser on security

    Makinde appoints adviser on security

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of Maj.-Gen. Lukman Omoniyi as his Executive Adviser on Security Coordination.

    The appointment, contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, is with immediate effect.

    Congratulating Omoniyi on the appointment, Governor Makinde urged him to ensure effective coordination of security activities in the state with a view to making every part of the state safe and everyone secure.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    Gen. Omoniyi is a seasoned senior infantry officer, who has held various command, staff and instructional appointments in military formations and units.

    He holds a Master of Science Degree in Humanitarian and Refugees Studies, in addition to another Master of Science Degree in Strategic Studies, both from the University of Ibadan.

    He is currently working on his Doctoral Degree in Peace, Security and Humanitarian Studies at the University of Ibadan.

  • Adeleke’s wife gives RHI’s N25m to traders

    Osun State governor’s wife, Mrs Titilola Adeleke, has distributed N25 million business grant of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to traders, in a move aimed at boosting small-scale businesses, strengthening economic empowerment and supporting petty traders to expand their livelihood.

    She distributed the money yesterday to 500 traders drawn across the state, at Osun State Government House, Oke-Fia, Osogbo.

    Mrs Adeleke hailed Senator Tinubu for supporting women at the grassroots, to boost their means of livelihood and improve their standard of living.

    READ ALSO: President rallies relief materials to affected Kwara communities

    She advised the beneficiaries to utilise the grant and warned against spending the money on frivolities.

    The governor’s wife said if the grant was properly harnessed, it would boost their profits, make life bearable and enable them contribute meaningful to the economy and society’s development.

    Wife of the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Adenike Adeleke, lauded the First Lady for prioritising the well-being of women, children, girls, the aged, widows, among others.

    The Head of market women in Osun State, Iyaloja-General Chief Mary Oyebode, pledged on behalf of the beneficiaries to use the grant for the intended purposes.

  • Olubadan seeks constitutional role for traditional rulers, appreciates Lagos’ support during coronation

    Olubadan seeks constitutional role for traditional rulers, appreciates Lagos’ support during coronation

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has renewed calls for constitutional roles for traditional rulers in the country, saying such recognition would strengthen governance and foster closer collaboration between monarchs and government authorities.

    Oba Ladoja made the call during a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at Lagos House, Marina.

    The monarch said that there was no dispute between the traditional institution and the Oyo State Government, but stressed that assigning constitutional responsibilities to traditional rulers would enhance their contributions to governance and community development.

    He said he was in Lagos to appreciate the governor and key stakeholders in the state for their support during his coronation, describing Lagos as a place deeply connected to his personal and traditional heritage.

    Oba Ladoja recalled how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu honoured his invitation to attend his coronation ceremony, describing the gesture as a demonstration of unity among Yoruba leaders.

    “I called Mr. President and informed him that I was fixing my coronation for September 26 and asked if he would attend. He said he would come, and indeed, he came. All members of the Governance Advisory Council were also present, which showed they recognised me as a Lagosian,” he said.

    The Olubadan noted that his ties with Lagos extend beyond traditional affiliations, revealing that his late wife was from Lagos and most of his children were born and raised in the state.

    He also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for the state’s infrastructural development, describing Lagos as a model for progress and urban growth.

    Responding, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Ibadan as an epitome and rallying point of the Yoruba race, while thanking the Olubadan for the visit and his leadership role in promoting peace and unity in Oyo State and beyond.

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    Sanwo-Olu prayed for a peaceful and impactful reign for the monarch, expressing confidence that his leadership would bring development and transformation to Ibadanland and Nigeria.

    “Our prayer is that your reign will not only be long but will also bring transformational development to Ibadanland and Nigeria as a whole. God will grant you strength, wisdom, and good health to rule well,” the governor said.

    He reaffirmed the historical and cultural ties between Lagos and Ibadan, assuring the monarch of Lagos State’s continued support and collaboration.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, we thank you for coming to acknowledge and appreciate us. Lagos will continue to stand with you and your kingdom,” he said.

  • Ondo at 50: Adekanmi calls for reflection, renewed commitment to state’s future

    Ondo at 50: Adekanmi calls for reflection, renewed commitment to state’s future

    A philanthropist and grassroots youth development advocate, Prince Kenny Adekanmi, popularly known as Kenny Kunma, has said the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State should serve as a moment of reflection as well as an opportunity to reassess the state’s future.

    Adekanmi noted that Ondo State has made significant contributions to nation-building and Nigeria’s collective heritage through its political leadership, financial input and human capital.

    In a congratulatory message to the people of the state, he stressed the need for residents, regardless of status, to pursue the growth and development of Ondo State with renewed vigour and a more pragmatic approach, in order to bequeath a legacy that future generations would be proud of.

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    The statement read, “As we mark exactly fifty(50) years since the creation of our dear Ondo State, and I join millions of Ondo State indigenes and residents to celebrate this major milestone – our Golden Jubilee.

    “In the last fifty(50) years, Ondo State has contributed immensely to Nation building and our shared patrimony. Through our political, financial and human resource contributions, we have served as a key and indispensable partner in the political and economic stability of Nigeria. I congratulate everyone on this auspicious occasion.

    “As we wind down the Golden Jubilee celebrations, I call on political and thought leaders across the state to utilise this celebration as a moment of reflection, and to ponder over the future of the state.

    “It is imperative for us to pursue the growth and development of our state with renewed vigour and with a more pragmatic approach, in order to bequeath an Ondo State that generations behind us will be proud of.

    “Congratulations! God bless the Sunshine State.”