The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • 2027: Ex-lawmaker mobilises support for Tinubu’s re-election in Ogun

    2027: Ex-lawmaker mobilises support for Tinubu’s re-election in Ogun

    A former member of the House of Representatives who represented Abeokuta North/ Obafemi-Owode/ Odeda Federal Constituency in Ogun State, Jelili Kayode Amusan, has started mobilising support for the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

    The event, which was held at Amusan’s residence in Ibara GRA, Abeokuta, Ogun State, attracted members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the state’s 20 local government areas of the state.

    At the event, Amusan explained that the purpose of the meeting was to formally mobilise grassroots support for President Tinubu under what he described as the ‘PBAT Movement,’ stating that the President’s performance across key sectors of the economy justified continuity in office beyond 2027.

    According to him, Nigeria’s economy was on the verge of collapse before President Tinubu assumed office, noting that the reforms introduced by Tinubu’s administration were already yielding positive results despite the initial challenges.

    READ ALSO; Obi’s defection sets teeth on edge

    Amusan expressed confidence that the 2027 general election would be an easy ride and contest for the President, citing the wave of defections into the APC from opposition parties at both state and national levels.

    “We have more than two-thirds majority of both the National Assembly and the state governors so far. So, where is the opposition? Those who are supposed to be opposing the APC are already joining us. I don’t think there is anything like opposition in Nigeria any longer,” he said.

    Amusan urged Nigerians to exercise patience with the Tinubu-led administration, acknowledging that while the ongoing reforms may be painful, they were necessary for long-term joy and national prosperity.

  • Civil society groups defend Komolafe, dismiss allegations against ex-NUPRC chief

    Civil society groups defend Komolafe, dismiss allegations against ex-NUPRC chief

    A coalition of registered civil society organisations in Nigeria has dismissed allegations of asset manipulation and revenue concealment levelled against the immediate past Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, describing the claims as “baseless, contrived and malicious.”

    The coalition, speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, said the allegations were being promoted by “faceless interests” whose illicit revenue channels were disrupted by reforms implemented under Komolafe’s four-year leadership at the commission.

    Addressing journalists, the group said the briefing was convened to “set the records straight” and counter what it described as deliberate attempts to distort facts and discredit the achievements recorded at NUPRC during Komolafe’s tenure.

    The statement was signed by Dr Wisdom Ohalete and Alhaji Nurudeen Abdulmaleek on behalf of the coalition.

    “It is important to state that Engr. Komolafe exited office voluntarily and honourably, with his integrity intact,” the coalition said, adding that his time in office was marked by transparency, accountability and measurable institutional reforms in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector.

    The coalition highlighted what it described as ten verifiable milestones achieved under Komolafe’s leadership. These include the introduction of regulatory frameworks such as the Upstream Measurement Regulations and the Advanced Cargo Declaration Regulations, which it said strengthened hydrocarbon accounting and revenue assurance.

    According to the group, Nigeria’s crude oil production recovered to an average of 1.68 million barrels per day during the period, peaking at about 1.8 million barrels per day in July 2025, while crude oil theft reportedly declined by over 90 per cent, from about 102,900 barrels per day in 2021 to roughly 9,600 barrels per day by September 2025.

    The coalition also cited the approval of 79 Field Development Plans with an estimated investment value of nearly $40 billion, the introduction of the Regulatory Action Plan to implement the Petroleum Industry Act, and the enforcement of the “Drill or Drop” policy to optimise oil and gas assets.

    Other achievements listed include renewed exploration activities through large-scale seismic data acquisition, the drilling and completion of 306 development wells between 2022 and 2025, and the full digitisation of licensing rounds, which the group said earned commendation from the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).

    On gas development and sustainability, the coalition said NUPRC completed the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme, strengthened host community development through remittances to Host Community Development Trusts, and deployed environmental, social and governance (ESG) tools such as Host Comply. It also noted Nigeria’s role in regional regulatory cooperation through the establishment of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF).

    The civil society groups further alleged that certain interests within the oil sector had mobilised “mushroom civil society groups” to stage protests in Abuja, Lagos and London in a bid to tarnish Komolafe’s reputation and trigger investigations by anti-graft agencies.

    “We urge the public to disregard these malicious distortions and stand by the truth, facts and documented achievements,” the coalition said.

  • Oluyole council ‘ll triple votes for Tinubu in 2027, ex-chairman pledges

    Oluyole council ‘ll triple votes for Tinubu in 2027, ex-chairman pledges

    A former Chairman of Oluyole local government Area of Oyo State Kehinde Olaosebikan has pledged that the Council area will triple its votes for President Bola Tinubu and ensure that all the APC candidates win convincingly in the local government in 2027. 

    Olaosebikan spoke with journalists at the APC unity rallyy at Olomi Area of Oluyole Local Government on Friday.

    He said:”Politics is local. And I want to say that in addition to the mammoth crowd you see here today, we are working assiduously to see that more eligible voters register, that more registered voters collect their voters’ cards and most importantly at the appropriate time we will ensure that overwhelming numbers of voters cast their votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all the APC candidates in 2027.

    “The party executives and leaders in the local government are totally committed to ensuring that we improve drastically on our performances in the 2023 elections.’’ 

    Already, Olaosebikan, the Convener of PBAT-KO Grassroots Movement, Oluyole disclosed that APC in Oluyole has been immensely grown in numbers and quality as most of the political heavyweights, respected community leaders, and traditional rulers in the area are now with the party.

    According to him, the Movement with its headquarters in CICU Building, Olomi, Olojuoro Road, Ibadan, has been moving around the 229 polling units in the ten wards of the local government, was in Gbaleasun village the remotest part of the local government area just a few days ago to mobilise and sensitise the real grassroots people on the continuous voters’ registration exercise and the ongoing APC membership registration exercise. 

    He maintained that no efforts would be spared in giving President Tinubu and all the APC candidates the maximum votes possible in the 2027 elections. 

    Speaking on unity and cohesion in the party, Olaosebikan noted that “APC  is now more than ever united, stronger and working in unison to deliver momentously to the party,  unprecedentedly in all the forthcoming elections.”

    The two-time local government boss noted that the APC chairman in the local government, Alhaji Waheed Akinleye, his executives, and all the leaders have been very successful in their efforts towards attaining total unity in the local government. 

    Olaosebikan, who was the South West Zonal Coordinator, Media and Publicity for the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) and Chairman, Media and Publicity Committee for Tinubu/ Shettima Campaign for Oyo State in 2023, commended the Renewed Hope Ambassador for Oyo State, Senator Teslim Folarin, and all the party leaders across the state for embarking on the Unity rally stating that the rally was yielding great fruits.

    “With this massive turnout, you know it’s already yielding great fruits. APC is the main party in Oyo State, and in Oluyole, we are making it the only functional party.,” he stated. 

  • Adegoke hails NRS boss on birthday

    Adegoke hails NRS boss on birthday

    Chief Gbite Adegoke, also known as ‘GMA’ has felicitated with the Chairman of Nigerian Revenue Services (NRS), Dr. Zaccheus Adedeji, on his birthday.

    He described Adedeji as a pride of Ogbomosoland and a worthy national asset.

    A statement by Adegoke lauded the NRS boss exemplary leadership and outstanding performance at the helm of the nation’s revenue administration, noting that his achievements continue to project Ogbomosho positively on the national stage.

    According to him, Adedeji’s rise in public service is anchored on competence, discipline and integrity, the qualities, he said, are deeply rooted in the values of Ogbomosho people.

    He said Adedeji has not only distinguished himself professionally, but has also become a symbol of hope and inspiration to the younger generation. He has made Ogbomosoland proud.”

    Adegoke commended the NRS boss for his commitment to national development and prudent management of public resources, adding that his leadership has strengthened confidence in the country’s revenue system.

    He prayed for good health, renewed strength and greater accomplishments for Adedeji as he marks another year, expressing confidence that he will continue to render impactful service to Nigeria and remain a rallying point for progress in his hometown.

  • First Lady celebrates Ogun dep gov, Salako-Oyedele, at 60

    First Lady celebrates Ogun dep gov, Salako-Oyedele, at 60

    The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, on her 60th birthday, describing her as a pride to women and a committed public servant whose contributions continue to impact the Gateway State.

    In a goodwill message she issued on the occasion of the diamond jubilee, Senator Tinubu said she joined the celebrant’s husband, family, the Ogun State Government, friends and well-wishers in rejoicing with the deputy governor on the milestone.

    Read Also: Oyedele: “Tax reforms will ease airline costs”

    She commended Salako-Oyedele’s dedication to service, noting her role in advancing development in Ogun State alongside Governor Dapo Abiodun.

    “Your dedicated service in contributing to the development and progress alongside the Governor of the ‘Gateway State’ is commendable,” the First Lady said.

    The First Lady also offered prayers for the deputy governor, asking Almighty Allah (SWT) to grant her continued good health, wisdom and grace to sustain her impactful service to the people of Ogun State.

  • Ekiti APC mobilises members for e-registration

    Ekiti APC mobilises members for e-registration

    The Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged its members to participate actively in the ongoing national electronic registration exercise.

    The coordinator of the APC e-registration exercise in the state and Commissioner for Youth Development, Gold Adesola Adedayo, made the call during a meeting with senatorial coordinators and local government supervisors in Ado-Ekiti.

    Adedayo said the exercise, initiated by the Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda-led National Working Committee, commenced last year with the training of ward-level agents, noting that it was critical to strengthening the party’s structures ahead of future elections.

    He explained that the registration would hold daily from 8 am to 6 pm across the state’s 177 wards for members aged 18 and above who possess valid Permanent Voter Cards and National Identification Numbers.

    The commissioner urged supervisors to intensify mobilisation at the ward level and provide necessary guidance to ensure smooth participation, adding that sustained membership drives were vital to the viability of any political party.

    Read Also: UK Oyo APC caucus backs Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid

    Adedayo noted that the exercise would enable the APC to ascertain its true membership strength and support base ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also contributing to the re-election bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the June 20, 2026, governorship poll.

    “This exercise will strengthen our party structures and ensure proper documentation of members at the grassroots,” he added.

    Also speaking, the Ekiti APC Chairman, Sola Elesin, who registered during the exercise, called on party members to emulate his example, stressing that participation reflected loyalty and readiness to contribute to the growth of the party.

    “As loyal and committed members, we must all come out and participate actively. APC is moving forward,” Elesin said.

  • Alaafin seeks establishment of military base, full investigation into National Park killings

    Alaafin seeks establishment of military base, full investigation into National Park killings

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has condemned the brutal attack on Oloka village and the killing of forest rangers within Old Oyo National Park.

    In a statement issued by his media aide, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch called for the establishment of a military base at Otefon Village to fortify the region and secure the Oyo-Oduduwa corridor.

    He also called for the deployment of the ‘Yoruba Defence Force Battalion’, under joint command of the Nigerian Army and traditional warrior chiefs, to patrol the park 24/7 and repel invaders.

    This is as the monarch called on the Federal Government and particularly the Ministry of Defence to declare Otefon a strategic National Security Zone and fund the construction of barracks, watchtowers, and a helipad within the next few months.

    Read Also: Alaafin, Oyo Speaker hail Makinde at 58

     Alaafin said: “The recent brutal killings inside Old Oyo National Park, especially the massacre at Oloko, are not merely a ‘security breach.’ It is a dagger plunged into the heart of our ancestral empire. Our sacred forests, our game reserves, our historic grounds, where our kings once hunted with spears and drums, are now being turned into slaughter yards by armed marauders. This will not stand.”

    The monarch described banditry and other security challenges facing the country as ‘gory, worrisome and disturbing’, noting that security was critical to the survival of any nation to forestall lawlessness, chaos and disorder.

    He lauded President Bola Tinubu’s demonstration, through actions, that ending insecurity is one of his administration’s foremost concerns.

  • No room for policy duplication in Lagos, says Obanikoro

    No room for policy duplication in Lagos, says Obanikoro

    Lagos State government will not permit policy duplications and uncoordinated programmes, the Special Adviser on Parastatal Monitoring, Babajide Obanikoro, have said.

    The governor’s aide spoke at a summit in Lagos with the theme: “Enhancing Efficiency, Accountability and Strategic Governance across Lagos State and Federal Parastatals.”

    He said the summit was both strategic and timely, coming at a moment when the demands of governance increasingly require collaboration, coordination, and collective responsibility.

    Obanikoro, a former federal legislator, said the Parastatals Monitoring Office would always live up to expectations as the channel for transmitting executive decisions and directives affecting all parastatals.

    He also said the office would continue to convene quarterly engagements with the State Chief Executive Officers and act as a critical liaison between Lagos State and other tiers of government on parastatal-related matters.

    Read Also: First Lady @ 65: Obanikoro: First Lady a woman of the people

     Obanikoro said: “Lagos State remains Nigeria’s economic nerve centre, hosting a significant concentration of Federal and State Government Parastatals operating within the same geographic and socio-economic space.

    “Yet, despite our shared objectives of service delivery and development, limited coordination has often resulted in policy duplication, overlapping mandates, inefficiencies, and the underutilization of shared resources.

    “These gaps ultimately affect the quality, speed, and impact of services delivered to our people. This summit, therefore, presents a valuable opportunity to bridge institutional divides, encourage structured engagement, and foster practical collaboration between Federal and Lagos State Parastatals.”

    Obanikoro said the discussions promoted by the office align with the T.H.E.M.E. S Agenda of the Lagos State Government, which prioritises building a smarter, more inclusive, and better-governed mega-city.

    He added: “Achieving this vision requires institutions that do not work in silos, but rather in synergy—leveraging collective strengths, sharing data and resources, and aligning policies for maximum public value.”

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

    Forum hails Ogun govt’s plan to stop illegal miners

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

    This commendation is coming on the heels of the intervention of the state government, which on Tuesday ordered the cessation of 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.

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Bolu Owootomo, had on Tuesday reiterated the state government’s commitment towards safeguarding farmlands, a goal, he said, that 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 the mining company would no longer operate in the area, emphasising that monitoring and enforcement measures remain in force to prevent future violations.

    Read Also: Mining Marshals arrest 17 illegal miners, impound three trucks in Kogi state

    In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Ifeoluwa Amoo and Comrade Ganiu Owolabi, the Forum described the government’s action as 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 ensures 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.”

  • OPC leader urges Tinubu to work with community-based security organisations

    OPC leader urges Tinubu to work with community-based security organisations

    The national president of the Oodua People’s Congress (Reformed), Comrade  Dare Adesope, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to work closely with community-based security organisations in the fight to tackle insecurity in the country.

    Adesope made the call in his New Year’s message to members of OPC-R in Lagos.

    ”The past year came with challenges, but through unity, courage, and resilience, we stood firm. I am proud of the discipline and commitment shown by our members in promoting peace, protecting our communities, and upholding the Yoruba heritage.

    “This new year presents another opportunity for us to deepen our role in securing our land, supporting good governance, and empowering our people.”

    Read Also:OPC seeks empowerment of local security outfits in fight against insecurity

    Adesope tasked his members to remain security conscious, law-abiding, and ever ready to serve with honour. While urging the government to work more closely with community-based security structures like OPC(R) to tackle insecurity and promote national unity.

    ”I also want to use this medium to plead that President Tinubu should equip OPC to use them as community security support.

    ”We are ready to work with government law enforcement agents to provide adequate security for all. Judging by our background check, we work without fear and are ready to protect our communities.