The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Fresh Appeal Court verdict revalidates reinstatement of council chairmen -APC chieftain

    Fresh Appeal Court verdict revalidates reinstatement of council chairmen -APC chieftain

    • NIWA boss warns against use of Amotekun to seize council secretariats

    The dismissal of a suit relisting the control of Osun State local government areas by the Court of Appeal has revalidated the reinstatement of the council chairmen, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Temilade Adewusi, has said.

    It will be recalled that the Appeal Court on February 10th reinstated APC members who had earlier been sacked by two Federal High Court verdicts, but the appellate court dismissed an application by the APC seeking to relist an earlier appeal that had been struck out on January 13 for lack of diligent prosecution.

    Adewusi, who is one of the leaders of APC in Osun State, in a statement on Saturday, berated Osun State Government for misinterpreting the fresh verdict and demanding an apology from APC and the Minister of Marine, Adegboyega Oyetola.

    She said: “The Friday ruling is a revalidation of the February 10, 2025, appeal court judgement reinstating the APC-led chairmen and councillors sacked by Governor Adeleke in 2022.”

    She promised that her civil society group was ready to collaborate with the reinstated APC council chairmen in Atakumosa East/Atakumosa West/Ilesa East/Ilesa West to drive development in Ijesa South Federal Constituency.

    She warned that the attempt by the Osun State Government and its handlers to read extraneous meanings to the unambiguous ruling would heat the polity, a development capable of igniting a serious political crisis in the state.

    “Justice Obiora said in the fresh verdict that the sudden attempt to resurrect the appeal through this same court will only lead to confusion, and this Court will resist such attempt to lure it to unwittingly seat on Appeal in CA/AK/270/2022.’ The CA/AK/270/2022 case in question is the appeal delivered February 10, 2025, which reinstated the APC-led local government executives and councillors. This ruling is a clear revalidation of the February 10, 2025 judgment of the Court of Appeal.”

    Read Also: Natasha: Appeal Court strikes out Akpabio’s motions, slams ₦100,000 fine

    Meanwhile,  the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, has warned against attempts to use the Amotekun corps to forcefully seize control of local government secretariats from the All Progressives Congress(APC).

    This is just as he noted that the recent Appeal Court verdict, which dismissed the relisting of their suit, revalidated the reinstatement of APC council chairmen earlier sacked by the Federal High Court.

    Oyebamiji, in a statement through his campaign coordinator, Adebayo Adedeji, on Saturday, cautioned Osun State Government against misinterpretation of the Appeal court verdict on who to control the councils.

    He noted that that misleading stance is capable of inciting the public against the duly elected local government executives who, since February, have been conducting the affairs of the local councils following the judgement of 10th February, 2025, which backed their return to office.

    He assured that no political force can clinch the local government affairs from the duly reinstated APC chieftains.

    He reminded the governor that the primary responsibility of any government is security of life and property, urging the governor to be statesmanly in discharging this responsibility by not setting the state on needless violence as experienced on February 17th, 2025 when Hon Remi Abass, former Chairman of Irewole Local Government, was murdered in broad daylight.

  • PSN restates commitment to well-being of Ogun residents

    PSN restates commitment to well-being of Ogun residents

    The Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Ogun State branch, Adewale Adenugba, has restated the commitment of the society to the health and well-being of the people through effective policy advocacy, professional ethics, capacity building, and innovations.

    Adenugba, who made this known in a statement heralding the 2025 Pharmacy Week with the theme: “Harnessing Pharmaceutical Innovations for Equitable Healthcare in a Rapidly Evolving Economy,” disclosed that Ogun PSN is positioning itself as a national model in pharmaceutical excellence.

    He revealed that the society would continue to promote responsible drug use, health education, and easier access to pharmaceutical services for the overall benefit of the people.

    He disclosed that the weeklong programme will begin tomorrow with an Health Walk Against Drug Abuse and Misuse where pharmacists across the state-led by the Executive Secretary, Ogun State Drug and Health Commodities Management Agency, Funke Oyeneye would visit the Kuto Motor Park in Abeokuta to enlighten the public on the dangers of drug abuse and misuse.

    Read Also: PSN calls for stronger laws to tackle fake drug crisis

     According to the statement, the enlightenment programme would be followed by a grand opening ceremony on Tuesday, the 17th at DLK Events Centre, Leme, Abeokuta, while the week will be rounded off with an Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for Wednesday, 18th June 2025.

    Adenugba added that investiture of the newly elected PSN Ogun State Chairman, inauguration of new state executives, recognition of trailblazers in the healthcare sector through merit awards, and a luncheon and fundraising event in support of the PSN Ogun Pharmaresource Hub Project would wrap up the week’s activities on Wednesday 18th June by 1.00 pm.

    The release further indicated that Samson Yomi Osewa, a pharmacist and founder of The Ambassadors Schools,  Ota, would be the Chairman, while the Special Guest of Honour is the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun.

    The president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Ayuba Tanko, is the Chief Host, while the keynote address will be delivered by an icon in pharmacy and a thought leader on pharmaceutical innovation, Pharm. Lekan Asuni.

  • Lagos LG chairman dies at 68

    Lagos LG chairman dies at 68

    • Sanwo-Olu, APC mourn

    The Chairman of Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area, Musibau Asafa, is dead.

    Ashafa was said to have died from an undisclosed prolonged illness.

    Asafa’s death was announced via a statement shared on Facebook on Saturday by his media aide, Bodunrin Ayodele.

    The statement did not disclose when Asafa died.

    The statement read in part:  “Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area is in mourning following the passing of its Executive Chairman, Prince Musibau Adekunle Asafa.

    “Prince Ashafa, a respected politician, leader and dedicated public servant, succumbed to a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment to the people he served.

    “According to a close family member, Prince Ashafa’s passing was confirmed after a long battle with illness. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he was unable to recover and passed on, leaving his family, friends, and colleagues in shock and grief.

    Read Also: LG chairmanship poll: Olasunkanmi picks nomination form, promises grassroots development

    “As news of his passing spreads, tributes and condolences are expected to pour in from well-wishers, community leaders, and government officials who had the privilege of working with him. Prince Asafa’s leadership was marked by a commitment to improving the lives of his constituents, and his contributions to the local government will be deeply missed.

    “Oto-Awori LCDA has lost a dedicated servant, and his passing will be felt by many. May his legacy live on, and may his family find solace in the memories of his life and service.”

    Meanwhile,  Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday mourned the passing of Ashafa via a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile.

     The governor described the passing of Ashafa, who died at age 68, as a great loss to the people of Oto-Awori LCDA, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Lagos State.

    The governor commiserated with the deceased’s family, friends, political associates, and members of Conference 57, which is a group of all the council chairmen in Lagos State.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu also sympathised with the Vice Chairman of Oto-Awori LCDA, Hon. Abiodun Azeez, as well as the management and staff of the council over Ashafa’s death.

    The governor said, “I am saddened by the news of  Hon. Musibau Ashafa’s death. It is a great loss to the Oto-Awori LCDA, Lagos APC, and the State. We have lost a committed, humble, passionate, visionary, and devoted public servant and grassroots politician.

    “He made positive impacts during his tenure as Chairman of Oto-Awori LCDA to deliver dividends of democracy to people at the grassroots level. He was committed to the development of the council in critical sectors.’’

    Also, the APC in Lagos State has expressed sadness over Ashafa’s death, describing it as painful.

    In a statement issued on Saturday, the chairman of the party, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi said: “The news of your passing, dear Hon. Musbau Ashafa, has left me with a heavy heart.

    “As a fellow party member and brother, your departure is a painful loss, not just for me, but for our entire party.

    “As chairman of Oto-Awori LCDA, you played a pivotal role in shaping grassroots politics, leaving an indelible mark on our community.

    “Your dedication, passion, and leadership inspired countless individuals, and your legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” Ojelabi added.

  • Osun Rep lauds Tinubu for posthumous national honour for late Bola Ige

    Osun Rep lauds Tinubu for posthumous national honour for late Bola Ige

    Member of the House of Representatives representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State, Hon. Oluwole Oke, has extended heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for conferring a posthumous national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Chief Bola Ige, SAN.

    In a statement personally signed, Hon. Oke described the recognition as a “fitting and long-overdue” tribute to one of Nigeria’s most iconic statesmen, hailing it as a significant gesture that reinforces the nation’s democratic foundations.

    Chief Bola Ige, widely referred to as the Cicero of Esa-Oke, was a former governor of the old Oyo State and also served as the Attorney-General of the Federation.

    Hon. Oke noted that Ige’s unwavering dedication to justice, democracy, and national unity had left “an indelible mark” on Nigeria’s political landscape.

    He said: “Chief Bola Ige was not only a son of Osun State but a beacon of hope and resilience for all Nigerians.”

    “This recognition by President Tinubu is a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions to our country’s development and democratic ideals. It reminds us that true patriotism transcends time and that the values he stood for remain vital to our collective progress.”

    Read Also: You lied against me, Ladoja faults ex-Osun governor over Bola Ige’s death

    He lauded President Tinubu for demonstrating what he termed “foresight and unwavering commitment” in honouring Nigeria’s heroes, stressing that such gestures not only promote national pride. but also inspire the younger generation to emulate selfless public service.

    Oke described Ige’s legacy as one defined by courage, integrity, and visionary leadership. “His life and work remain a beacon of hope and resilience, not only for Osun State but for all Nigerians.”

    The lawmaker called on Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices of leaders like Chief Ige and to recommit themselves to the ideals of justice, unity, and national development.

    “This posthumous award will rekindle national pride and inspire younger generations to emulate the late Chief’s exemplary dedication to public service,” he said.

  • Pa Omolodun for burial June 20

    Pa Omolodun for burial June 20

    The remains of Pa Augustine Olayiwola Omolodun, who died in April at the age of 88, will be buried in Lagos on June 20, 2025, his family has said.

    A statement issued on Friday by one of his children, Barrister Olanlokun Omolodun, stated that the funeral programme will commence on Thursday, June 19, with a Christian wake at his residence at No. 4 Atiba Street, Idimangoro, Ikeja.

    Read Also: Peter Obi, Okaro, others attend Nkechi Nweje burial ceremony

    “A requiem mass will take place at St Dominic  Catholic Church, Herbert Macauley Way, Yaba, Lagos, while the internment will be held at Atan Cemetery, Yaba. Entertainment of guests will take place at Banilux Place, near Ozone Cinemas, Yaba, Lagos.’’

    He is survived by children and grandchildren.

  • Group seeks unity among traditional rulers for Ogbomoso advancement

    Group seeks unity among traditional rulers for Ogbomoso advancement

    A group, The Ogbomoso Torch Bearers, has called on traditional rulers across Ogbomosoland to set aside their differences and unite in the interest of the region’s development.

    The group expressed concerns over growing disunity among traditional rulers in the zone, saying disunity has been one of the factors hindering the progress of the five local government areas that make up Ogbomosoland.

    A statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the group, Adekojo Adeniran, and the Secretary, Mr. Ayobami Olusegun identified activities of selfish conflict entrepreneurs and misguided advisers as the root cause of division among the monarchs. 

    The duo alerted monarchs in Ogbomosoland to remain vigilant and guard against such individuals, warning that these people are often driven by personal gain at the expense of the community’s collective well-being.

    “There are many people of high integrity and native intelligence who are capable of contributing meaningfully to the growth of Ogbomoso, but they are often denied access to the royal institutions due to hidden agendas and selfish interests.”

    The group emphasised that everyone has a crucial role to play in making Ogbomoso a model city. 

    Read Also: Ibadan, Ogbomoso traditional leaders reject move to make Alaafin permanent chair of Oyo council of Obas

    It called for unity of purpose, mutual respect, and love among the monarchs, regardless of historical differences. 

    “We must be bound by our shared passion for the advancement of our land. How beautiful and inspiring it would be if the Soun, Olugbon, Onpetu, Aresa, Onikoyi, and other royal fathers could speak with one voice, united in vision and purpose.

    “Unfortunately, the reverse is currently the case, and it is disheartening to see those who should be exemplars engaging in public disputes and harboring resentment.”

    The Ogbomoso Torch Bearers camvassed reconciliation and collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure progress and pride of Ogbomosoland.

  • Osun community celebrates grand Chief Imam, holds turbaning ceremony Saturday

    Osun community celebrates grand Chief Imam, holds turbaning ceremony Saturday

    Iragbiji community will play host on Saturday to dignitaries from far and near for the turbaning ceremony of the Grand Chief Imam of the ancient town, Sheikh Salman Sulaiman Afolabi Atewogbade.

    The ceremony is holding sequel to Sheik’s appointment on 1st November, 2023 as the new Grand Chief Imam of Iragbiji. 

    A statement by the Secretary and the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Dr. Jimoh Olorede and Alhaji Adeoye Bakare, Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi Odundun IV, will receive prominent Grand Imams from different places, Islamic Scholars, Clerics, Traditional Rulers, and other important members of society at Pathfinder College of Health Technology, along Osogbo-Kelebe-Iragbiji road, Iragbiji. 

    According to the statement, the Grand Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muhyiddin Salman Hussayn Al-Imam will deliver a public lecture.

    Read Also: Importers, manufacturers flood Nigeria with substandard products, says SON

    Sheik Salman Sulaiman Afolabi Atewogbade is the eighth (8th) Grand Chief Imam of Iragbiji. 

    The release further states: “Before his appointment, the new Chief Imam had held related positions as ‘Otun Mufassir’, ‘Al-Mufassir’, and ‘Naibul-Imam, and had worked as Arabic Teacher, and Islamic Sermon (Friday Khutbah) Translator to Ash-Sheik Bashir Eleha, among other leadership positions. 

    “Sheikh Salman Sulaiman was appointed ‘Imam of Otakiti, Ikirun in 1993, following the demise of his mentor, Ash-Sheikh ‘Abdul Hameed.” 

    Consequently, rich scholarly profile in Arabic and Islamic studies, positive disposition to life, sound sense of judgement, tranquility and decorum were the rarely-combined sterling qualities of Sheikh Salman Sulaiman, according to the statement, which distinguished him, and were used as yardsticks for his consideration and appointment as Grand Chief Imam of Iragbiji.

  • Afenifere hails Tinubu over Southwest Development Commission

    Afenifere hails Tinubu over Southwest Development Commission

    The Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) has expressed optimism that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiative on regional development commissions will expand economic growth in the Southwest region. 

    The Ekiti State coordinator, Elder Bunmi Awotiku, stated this in Ado-Ekiti at an event marking 32nd anniversary of June 12, Democracy Day in the country. 

    Awotiku praised Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to regional development and integration, said the initiative is a welcome development that will harness the region’s socioeconomic potential and promote development.

    The event, themed “June 12: Economic Imperatives of Southwest Development Commission,” featured a lecture by Professor Taiwo Owoeye of Ekiti State University.

    Awotiku commended Tinubu for his efforts in promoting democracy and development in Nigeria, noting that the President’s initiatives are a testament to his commitment to the country’s growth and progress. 

    Reflecting on the significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic history, the ARG Coordinator, said the 1993 presidential election laid a solid foundation for the country’s democratic growth. 

    Awotiku lamented the annulment of the freest and credible election won by late Moshood Abiola and the loss of lives during the protests but lauded sacrifices made by Nigerians, which ultimately paved the way for the country’s current democratic dispensation.

    He said, “Many here may have not witnessed the election, but we thank God for the ARG , if not for the group, History as a subject wouldn’t have been reintroduced back into the school curriculum. 

    “Our people are fast forgetting our history, most of children don’t know who is Segun Odegbami, Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo, even MKO Abiola, we only hear their names but the elders here will know the story of June 12.  

    “The spontaneous reaction of Nigerians against the annulment of the election led to the killing of people on the streets of Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja, Kano and across Nigeria.But let us thank God, because if not for June 12, there won’t be Biodun Oyebanji and talking about shared prosperity. 

    Read Also: Tinubu to PDP, others: put your house in order before 2027

    “It is because of June 12 that we have democracy in Nigeria and our own Bola Tinubu as President. This has brought freedom and development to Nigeria in all spheres.We need to remind ourselves, where were are coming from , where are we and where are we heading to ? It is this agitation that gave birth to ARG”, he added. 

    Owoeye, in his lecture, suggested that states in the Southwest region should leverage their comparative advantages to achieve common goals.

    He emphasised the need for regional integration, citing the ongoing coastal road project from Lagos to Calabar as a catalyst for economic transformation.

    The event drew various interest groups, artisans, market women, students, and government officials, who reflected on the significance of June 12 and the future of Nigeria’s democracy.

  • Peller advocates strengthened democracy on June 12

    Peller advocates strengthened democracy on June 12

    As Nigeria observes June 12 as Democracy Day, the Ayedero of Yorubaland Hon Shina Peller has called on all Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, to engage actively in the democratic process.

    In his goodwill message to Nigerians, Peller emphasised June 12 as a time for introspection and joy—a moment to celebrate the triumphs and sacrifices made in the name of democracy, stressing that the day symbolises a turning point in the nation’s political landscape.

    Moreover, the Oke Ogun-born businessman-cum- politician noted that June 12 is not merely a date on the calendar, but that it embodies the aspirations and resilience of the Nigerian populace.

    Peller called upon citizens to recommit themselves to the values that underpinned the fight for democracy, reminding all that while honouring the legacy of heroes like M.K.O. Abiola and others, it’s crucial to ensure their sacrifices were not in vain.

    He further encouraged active participation in political processes, constructive dialogue, and grassroots activism, adding that engaging in these activities is vital for building a stronger, more resilient democratic framework in Nigeria.

    While identifying corruption, insecurity, and social inequality as the pressing challenges that continue to plague the nation, Peller stressed that acknowledging these issues is the first step toward meaningful change. He, therefore, urged Nigerians to channel their frustrations into actionable steps by advocating for policies that uplift marginalized communities and promote equitable development across the board.
    Peller expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria, describing it as bright, contingent upon a steadfast commitment to democratic principles.

    According to him: “Today, as we mark June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day, it’s a moment for reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to our democratic ideals.

    Read Also: Tinubu has fulfilled Abiola’s vision for a democratic Nigeria — Shettima

    “This day symbolizes a turning point in Nigeria’s history, when the voices of the people rang loud and clear during the 1993 presidential election. Despite subsequent struggles, that moment remains a testament to our resilience and affirmation that democracy is worth fighting for.

    “As we honor the late M.K.O Abiola and those who stood up for truth and fairness, let’s reinforce our commitment to uphold the values they fought for. Today, we must actively participate in the political process, engage in constructive dialogue, advocate for our rights, and exercise our franchise. Every action counts, whether through voting, community organizing, or grassroots activism.

    “Let’s acknowledge the challenges we face, corruption, insecurity, and social inequality and channel our frustrations into action. Together, let’s advocate for policies that uplift the marginalized and foster development for all. As we celebrate this important day, let’s look ahead with hope and determination. The future of Nigeria is bright, but it depends on our unwavering commitment to democratic principles.

    “So, today, let’s remember our past, engage in our present, and envision our future. May this Democracy Day inspire us all to work tirelessly towards a Nigeria where democracy is not merely a political system but a way of life. Let’s cultivate a Nigeria that stands tall as a beacon of democracy, unity, and progress in Africa.”

  • OSGoF, NASRDA seek presidential intervention on satellite investment, iron ore deposit exploration

    OSGoF, NASRDA seek presidential intervention on satellite investment, iron ore deposit exploration

    The Surveyor General of the Federation, Surv. Adeyemi Adebomehin, has called for urgent presidential intervention to accelerate investment in high-precision satellites for Nigeria. 

    He stressed that such a move is essential to curb the financial losses incurred by government agencies that currently rely on foreign sources for satellite data.

    This comes as the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju, raised concerns over the urgent need to identify new iron ore deposits for future industrial use, warning that the current reserves in Ajaokuta could be exhausted within a decade of full-scale operations at the Ajaokuta Steel Complex.

    These emerged during a strategic meeting that focused on strengthening inter-agency collaboration in areas such as geospatial data management, satellite services, communication infrastructure, and support for the forthcoming national census in Abuja on Tuesday between the Surveyor General of the Federation and NASRDA management team, led by Dr. Adepoju.

    Adebomehin who underscored the need for Nigeria to acquire satellites capable of delivering sub-10cm accuracy, said it is a critical requirement for national planning, defense operations, and infrastructure development. 

    In a statement by Henry David, the Head of Information and Public Relations at the OSGoF on Wednesday, the Surveyor General stressed that such procurement should be prioritized at the highest level of government, saying, “In terms of satellite services, the government is losing huge sums due to MDAs procuring data from foreign sources.

    “You may still have to find a way to meet Mr President and ask him that you want a satellite that can give an accuracy of less than 10 centimetres. 

    “In terms of a satellite you need the requisite system and the software, in order to stop what the government is losing in terms of MDA going out to acquire satellites. 

    ” I will still want you to assist us more. I’m saying on the side of the satellite”

    Dr. Adepoju, in his remarks, highlighted the urgent need for joint action in identifying new mineral deposits for future industrial use, especially as existing steel resources in Ajaokuta are projected to be depleted within a decade. 

    He expressed NASRDA’s willingness to work alongside OSGoF and the Ministry of Steel Development to support national industrialization goals.

    Both agencies also raised concerns about health risks associated with poorly regulated telecommunication infrastructure. 

    They cited increasing cancer rates potentially linked to ground stations and telecom masts placed in densely populated areas. 

    They jointly recommended co-location of telecom infrastructure a global best practice to minimize radiation exposure and ensure more effective regulation.

    Read Also: Akpabio: NASRDA key to solving Nigeria’s security, economic challenges

    The meeting emphasized the critical importance of collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC) ahead of the national census. 

    The agencies pledged technical support to ensure the accuracy and credibility of population data, noting that reliable geospatial and surveying inputs are foundational to census planning.

    Director of Geodesy at OSGoF, Surv. Duniya Joseph, echoed the need for stronger cooperation among government bodies, saying, “When agencies work together, especially with OSGoF, outcomes are better, as seen in military collaborations. 

    “The problem is too much silo thinking driven by budgets. We need to focus on shared advantages”.

    In a show of solidarity, the NASRDA team presented symbolic gifts to the SGOoF, welcoming him as a key partner in national development and as a member of the extended NASRDA family.