The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Crisis deepens in Ondo Assembly as aggrieved lawmakers insist on speaker’s impeachment

    Crisis deepens in Ondo Assembly as aggrieved lawmakers insist on speaker’s impeachment

    The crisis rocking the Ondo State House of Assembly has escalated, with aggrieved lawmakers intensifying moves to impeach the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, over allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office.

    Twelve lawmakers had last week passed a vote of no confidence in the Speaker, accusing him of diverting N50 million meant for a public hearing and mismanaging monthly operational grants.

    Speaking on Sunday during a radio interview on Crest 106.1 FM, Akure, and monitored by The Nation, Hon. Olajide Oguntodu, representing Akure South Constituency I, confirmed that he and eleven others have already signed an impeachment notice.

    Oguntodu said the allegations against the Speaker raise troubling concerns about transparency and accountability within the 10th Assembly. He dismissed claims that the impeachment push was politically motivated or sponsored by external forces.

    According to him, the move is “purely about integrity and accountability,” asserting it has “absolutely nothing to do with the Governor of Ondo State or any political figure.”

    He accused lawmakers defending the Speaker of undermining the state’s progress, warning that the Assembly must embrace transparency.

    Last week, Speaker Oladiji dismissed the impeachment threat as a “misplaced priority,” insisting the House would not be distracted from its legislative duties, including work on the re-ordered 2025 Appropriation Act.

    Read Also:Ondo Assembly crisis deepens as Speaker dismisses ‘impeachment plot’

    Supported by key Assembly leaders—including the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Olalade Gbegudu; Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi; and Hon. Fayemi-Obayelu Olawumi (Ilaje II)—Oladiji maintained that he enjoys the backing of the majority of the 26-member Assembly and the full support of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    On the allegation of diverting N50 million, the Speaker insisted he does not personally handle Assembly finances and reaffirmed his commitment to transparency.

    The Assembly had been sharply divided since Governor Aiyedatiwa submitted a N531 billion “supplementary budget” to the House for approval.

    Some lawmakers rejected the proposal, questioning the need for such a massive supplementary request barely two months before the end of the fiscal year.

    The supplementary budget, presented on November 4, 2025, by the Clerk of the House, Barr. Benjamin Jayeola, seeks approval to fund ongoing capital projects and recurrent obligations, including salaries, pensions, and newly initiated infrastructure works.

    A copy of the budget document showed that the governor is requesting N531,767,261,000, with N254,448,081,000 earmarked for recurrent expenditure and N277,319,130,000 for capital projects for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025.

    Some lawmakers opposed to the budget accused the executive of poor budget performance and fiscal indiscipline in implementing the 2025 Appropriation Law.

    The unfolding crisis has deepened divisions within the assembly, raising concerns about legislative stability and political alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • Oyo APC condemns PDP Ibadan convention, calls it a ‘carnival of shame’

    Oyo APC condemns PDP Ibadan convention, calls it a ‘carnival of shame’

    The Oyo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held in Ibadan, describing the event as a charade and a “carnival of shame, lawlessness, and impunity.”

    It was reported that despite multiple court rulings ordering the suspension of the convention, the faction led by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde proceeded with the event, hosting delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to elect new national officers for the party.

    In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC accused Governor Makinde of subjecting Ibadan residents to needless hardship by allegedly compelling commercial drivers to withdraw their services and assemble at the venue to inflate attendance and create a false impression of a successful convention.

    “PDP has been synonymous with impunity, and this played out again when a group within the party called the bluff of the judiciary to stage an illegal procession in Ibadan, which they tagged a national convention,” Sadare said.

    He further alleged that Governor Makinde was “desperate for national leadership” despite failing “woefully on the home front,” pointing to ongoing grievances from residents affected by property demolitions for the Ibadan Circular Road project.

    Sadare also claimed that a significant portion of the September allocations of the 33 local government councils was diverted to fund what he described as a “jamboree,” noting that many PDP governors reportedly declined to contribute financially.

    He warned that every public fund spent on the “failed PDP project” would be accounted for, asserting that the “kangaroo convention” signalled the beginning of the PDP’s collapse.

    However, he added that it was not too late for the party’s warring factions to reconcile if they hoped to remain relevant in future elections.

    “It is clear they have already lost 2027; their only chance is to plan ahead for possible relevance in 2031,” he said.

  • Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele wins Nidoe France global cultural bridge award

    Oyo APC guber aspirant Oladele wins Nidoe France global cultural bridge award

    The Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland and Oyo APC governorship aspirant, Oloye Saheed Oladele, has received yet another honour, winning the Global Cultural Bridge Award presented by the Nigeria in Diaspora Organisation Europe (NIDOE), France chapter, for his contributions to cultural diplomacy and the promotion of Nigeria’s heritage on the global stage.

    According to the organisation, Oloye Oladele has played a pivotal role in advancing international understanding, mutual respect, and cultural exchange, helping to strengthen ties between Nigeria and the global community.

    Read Also: Joy Madubuike advocates healthcare overhaul in Nigeria, seeks support for women in Africa

    The award was presented by Hon. Shina Olaoye, Chairman of NIDOE France, during the France Prominent Award and Fiesta 2025 Edition held in Marseille, France.

    Baàmẹ̀kọ́ Oladele received the honour alongside other distinguished personalities, including the First Lady of Oyo State, Mrs Tamunomini Makinde; Chairman/CEO of Fresh FM, Dr Yinka Ayefele; and Mrs Pamela Otuka, Curator of the National Museum of Unity, Ibadan.

    This came barely a week after Oloye Saheed Oladele was honoured with the Nigeria Change Makers Award in Abuja.

  • Explosion near Owo bank sparks security fears in Ondo

    Explosion near Owo bank sparks security fears in Ondo

    Residents and passersby were thrown into panic on Saturday after a loud explosion occurred near a commercial bank in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The sound reportedly sent people scampering for safety as thick smoke briefly rose from the scene, forcing traders to flee and nearby shop owners to hastily shut their doors.

    The scare came barely two weeks after the Department of State Services (DSS) alerted the Nigerian Army to an alleged plot by members of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) to launch coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States.

    Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Olayinka Ayanlade, said investigations revealed that the explosion was caused by a loud firecracker purchased from a nearby supermarket.

    Read Also: Owo bank robberies: Police parade three more suspects

    Ayanlade said a suspect, identified as Ayoola Daniel Ojumu, has been arrested and allegedly confessed to his involvement, while his accomplice, who allegedly ignited the device, is still at large.

    “The disturbance was caused by a banger purchased from a nearby supermarket. One Ayoola Daniel Ojumu of Owo has been arrested in connection with the incident and has confessed to his role,” he said.

    He added that the suspect would be charged to court after the investigation is concluded.

    Ayanlade urged parents and guardians to caution their wards, especially before and during the festive season, warning that the command would not hesitate to take decisive action against any attempts to breach public peace.

    He also called on residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.

    The incident occurred against the backdrop of a confidential DSS letter warning of “imminent attacks” by ISWAP terrorists in Ondo and Kogi States.

    The letter, addressed to the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, listed Eriti-Akoko, Oyin-Akoko and Owo town among the targeted communities. It stated that intelligence confirmed plans to carry out coordinated attacks “anytime soon.”

    Last week, panic also spread in the Akungba-Akoko community following rumours that Boko Haram members had invaded the area.

  • FUTA: Tinubu tasks tertiary institutions on curriculum reform

    FUTA: Tinubu tasks tertiary institutions on curriculum reform

    President Bola Tinubu has called on the authorities of tertiary institutions across the country to prioritise curriculum reform to produce graduates equipped with practical, market-ready skills for today’s rapidly evolving labour landscape.

    Speaking on Saturday at the 38th convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), in Ondo State, the President said Nigerian higher institutions must move beyond outdated teaching models and embrace innovative, skills-driven learning that supports both employability and entrepreneurship.

    Tinubu, represented by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, noted that curriculum redesign remains crucial to national development.

    He stressed that his administration was committed to strengthening the higher education system through improved policies, investment in technology, research funding, and stronger university-industry collaborations.

    The President added that his government would continue to provide an enabling environment for investments and businesses to thrive, especially in the areas of technology, renewable energy, health sciences, and vocational trades.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s clarion call for nationalist reawakening

    “While today’s ceremony brings joy, it is overwhelming to consider the number of graduates joining the labour market. It is therefore important to focus on the relevance of our curricula to employability and job creation.

    “Government alone cannot directly provide jobs for the teeming graduates from our institutions, but we will continue to create an environment where businesses can grow. This administration recognises the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in our national development,” he said.

    Tinubu also highlighted ongoing efforts under the digital economy agenda, renewable energy initiatives, and infrastructure development, revealing that they present new opportunities for graduates.

    On agriculture, he reiterated that Nigeria’s abundant natural resources offer significant prospects for wealth creation, urging graduates to explore opportunities in the sector.

    The President called for a review of the long-standing practice of relying solely on government for university funding, stressing the need for more sustainable models.

    He also encouraged parents, guardians, and alumni to complement government efforts, as practised globally, emphasising the need to strengthen the link between tertiary institutions and industry so that research outputs can be more impactful and commercially relevant.

  • FG strategises to mobilise fund for cancer patients in 36 states

    FG strategises to mobilise fund for cancer patients in 36 states

    • Cancer death to double by the year 2050…if—NCIF

    The Federal Government of Nigeria and the National Cancer Intervention Fund (NCIF) have strategised on ways to mobilise fund for treatment of cancer patients across the 36 states of Nigeria.

     The Nation recalled that FG through the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziak Adekunle Salako, inaugurated the Governing Board of NCIF to tackle the concern of stakeholders on the catastrophic burden of out-of-pocket spending by cancer patients and the effects on social and economic well-being in the society.

    FG and the Governing Board of NCIF at a 2-day retreat, mapped out the operating model for the mobilization and utilisation of funds to expand access to cancer care and reduce cancer burden on Nigerians, in

     n his remark, the Chairman Governing Council of NCIF, Dr. Gafar Alawode explained that the intervention fund became very necessary due to the growing number of cancer cases in Nigeria and Africa.

    Read Also: Yoruba Islamic clerics, leaders warn against using religion to divide Nigeria

     He noted that  “Cancer care is not affordable to almost all income categories through out-of-pocket spending; and the gross inadequacy of available government resources to finance cancer care, research, and capacity building.”

     Alawode added that “cancer death is projected to double by the year 2050 in Sub-Saharan Africa if we continue with the business-as-usual scenario.”

     “We are to articulate strategies for delivering the mandate of NCIF, which will be evidence-based and reflect our contextual reality, especially on how to raise needed resources sufficiently, how to utilize the mobilized resources effectively, efficiently, and equitably an how to create a formidable institutional arrangement for resource mobilization and utilization.”

  • IPAN calls for stronger regulatory synergy

    IPAN calls for stronger regulatory synergy

    The Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN) has called for stronger collaboration among regulatory bodies in the health, industrial and environmental sectors to strengthen Nigeria’s laboratory ecosystem.

    Speaking at the 32nd Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) workshop in Lagos, the Registrar/CEO of IPAN, Aliyu Angara, urged relevant agencies to shun inter-agency rivalry and embrace synergy.

     “While agencies may seek to expand their mandates, such expansion must be guided by professional ethics, mutual respect and national interest,” Angara said.

     He noted that IPAN remains the only legally recognised body authorised to register analytical laboratories and train professionals qualified to issue Certificates of Analysis valid in law.

     According to him, IPAN has consistently respected the mandates of sister agencies including NAFDAC, SON, NESREA and FCCPC, and expects the same courtesy in return.

     The two-day workshop, themed, ‘Testing for Cosmetic Safety and Efficacy: Balancing Consumer Demands, Public Health, and Regulatory Standards,’ drew participants from regulatory agencies, academia, industry and policy circles.

     Delivering the keynote address, the Dean, Faculty of Physical and Earth Sciences, University of Lagos, Prof. Olayinka Asekun, highlighted the rising demand for locally made cosmetic products and emphasised the need for robust safety assessments before market entry.

    Read Also: Yoruba Islamic clerics, leaders warn against using religion to divide Nigeria

     “There is a gradual shift in demand for African products made in Africa for African skin. This transformation is sparking a new age of local innovation, encouraging both local start-ups and foreign investments,” she said.

     Asekun, however, expressed concern about the proliferation of adulterated and fake cosmetic products, warning that many unapproved products are being pushed into the market, increasing risks to consumers.

     Declaring the workshop open, the chairman of the occasion, Prof. Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, urged analysts to rely on evidence-based practices rather than sentiment to ensure cosmetic products in Nigeria meet global safety standards.

     “This year’s MCPD workshop has been convened to strengthen the analytical and regulatory capacity of public analysts, ensuring that cosmetic products in Nigeria meet globally accepted safety and efficacy standards,” he said.

  • Girl, 12 dies inside domestic well in Kwara

    Girl, 12 dies inside domestic well in Kwara

    A 12-YEAR-OLD girl, simply identified as Nabilat, has died inside a domestic well in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.

    Nabilat allegedly fell inside the well around 10:35 am yesterday.

    The unfortunate incident occurred at Busari Alao Street, Ikoyi community Irewolede area in Ilorin metropolis.

    Confirming the incident, spokesperson of the state Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, said that “the brigade was summoned through an exchange telephone call by one Mayowa living in that neighbourhood.

    Read Also: Yoruba Islamic clerics, leaders warn against using religion to divide Nigeria

    “Firemen were able to recover the dead body from the well and later handed it over to one family member of the deceased.

    “According to the report, the victim went to fetch water and during the process of fetching, one of his legs suddenly slipped off the ground and eventually tumbled down into the well.”

  • OGIRS boss charges staff on data integrity, cybersecurity

    OGIRS boss charges staff on data integrity, cybersecurity

    The Executive Chairman, Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS), Mr. Olugbenga Olaleye, has charged Directors, Zonal Controllers, Tax Office Managers and Heads of Units to ensure total compliance with data integrity and cyber security policies in tax administration in order to prevent data breaches, financial losses and public mistrust.

    The OGIRS boss gave the charge during the OGIRS 2025 Q1–Q3 Performance Review, at Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, ogun State, saying tax administration is evolving and the era of using roadblocks as enforcement measures is over, noting that there was need for a more strategic and technology-driven approach for enforcement, urging tax professionals to enhance the efficiency of digital processes and ensure that all staff are conversant with the agency’s cyber security policies.

    Read Also: Yoruba Islamic clerics, leaders warn against using religion to divide Nigeria

    The OGIRS Chairman further stated that taxpayers must be adequately sensitised on the new tax reforms, revealing the importance of collaboration, innovation and regular brainstorming sessions for improved performance.

  • Olaogun joins Oyo assembly race

    Olaogun joins Oyo assembly race

    Babatunde Olaogun has formally declared his intention to contest for a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly, representing Ogbomoso North Constituency under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The announcement was made at the APC Secretariat in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area, Oyo State, drawing top party leaders and supporters from across the constituency.

    The event witnessed the presence of key APC figures, including the APC Senatorial Chairman, the Ogbomoso North APC Chairman, Ward Chairman, Abogunde Ward Chairman, and the APC Secretary of the local government, all of whom expressed support for Olaogun’s ambition.

    Olaogun, a trained Microbiologist, Public Administrator and entrepreneur, highlighted his professional background as part of his readiness for legislative service.

    Read Also: Yoruba Islamic clerics, leaders warn against using religion to divide Nigeria

    A graduate of Microbiology from Lagos State University and holder of a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, he also owns Royalty Lounge and Suites in Ikeja.

    He serves as the Lead Visioner of The Royalty Foundation and convener of Royalty  Givings, a community-focused initiative promoting grassroots development.

    Unveiling his agenda for Ogbomoso North, Olaogun outlined priority areas including wealth creation by supporting innovative ideas, youth empowerment to drive community growth, and effective representation based on his governance experience. He also pledged improved access to healthcare, promising free medical services for women, especially those living with diabetes and hypertension.