The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • APC chieftain slams Governor Makinde

    APC chieftain slams Governor Makinde

    A chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Oyedele Alao, has slammed Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent criticism of Minister of Works David Umahi of ‘dancing around the cost’ on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

    He described Makinde’s remarks as hypocrisy, alleging the governor must first account for his inflated road contracts before attacking anyone at the federal level.

    A statement by Alao, an engineer, said the costs of roads by Makinde’s administration defied logic, accusing him of turning road construction into a cash-draining adventure that had produced some of the highest cost-per-kilometre projects.

    Read Also: Makinde gets kudos for creating ministry

    He said: “These are not rumours; these are the governor’s own public figures. No civilised state should pay such outrageous sums without a clear Bill of Quantities or cost justification. Governor Makinde should publish the contracts.

    “Oyo people deserve to know where their money is going. Until the governor opens his books, he has no moral ground to lecture the Federal Government on transparency or efficiency.

     “As an engineer, I think the governor has an explanation to make on the roads and other infrastructural projects his administration has embarked on since 2019, most especially when the government has claimed it completed 14 road projects, totalling 224.32 kilometres between May 2023 and May 2025.

    “Leadership is by example, not about grandstanding or media drama. Makinde should clean up his own administration before pointing accusing fingers at others. The people of Oyo State are watching, and history will not be kind to those who squander public trust.”

  • Lagos marks Day of the Girl Child

    Lagos marks Day of the Girl Child

    Lagos State Government, through Innovate Eko Mentorship Series, has marked 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, with an impactful mentorship at Dolphin Senior High School, Lagos Island.

    The programme brought together top female public officials, educators and administrators, who have distinguished themselves in sectors of Lagos State’s education and governance landscape. Among the distinguished mentors are Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Cecilia Dada; Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite.

    Others include Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education, Prof. Bidemi Lafiaji-Okuneye; and Executive Secretary, Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade.

    The mentors delivered motivational speeches drawn from their personal journeys of resilience, dedication and service, inspiring the students to dream big and pursue their aspirations with courage and focus.

    Mrs Dada encouraged girls to embrace leadership roles and reject intimidation.

    “Never limit yourselves because you’re a girl,” she said. “Develop high self-esteem and a growth mindset. Learning a skill gives you relevance, confidence and access to new opportunities in today’s fast-paced world.”

    Mrs. Dokunmu-Adegbite advised the girls to recognise their potential to effect positive change through education.

    “Every girl possesses the strength, intelligence and courage to drive change, even in adversity,” she affirmed. “The International Day of the Girl Child celebrates your resilience, potential and power to create lasting impact.”

    Read Also: Makinde gets kudos for creating ministry

    She underscored the importance of empowering girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), urging them to take up active roles ‘’in these critical disciplines.’’

    Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye dispelled gender stereotypes in science and technology. She maintained that competence, not gender, determined success, encouraging girls to explore science-related careers confidently.

    Mrs. Agbaje-Okunade called on young girls to take responsibility for driving social change and community development.

    Adding a health dimension to the discussion, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, led a session on personal hygiene, menstrual care and general well-being, emphasising the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced diets, regular exercise and sufficient rest.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, hailed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for promoting inclusive education and supporting initiatives that empowered boys and girls across the state.

  • Ondo distributes 5,000 sanitary pads to school girls to mark International Day of the Girl Child

    Ondo distributes 5,000 sanitary pads to school girls to mark International Day of the Girl Child

    The Ondo state government has distributed no fewer than 5,000 cartons of sanitary pads to schoolgirls across the 18 local government areas of the state to commemorate the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

    The State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, made the presentation on Monday in Akure, the state capital.

    Osamaye said the initiative was part of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration’s commitment to promoting menstrual hygiene and the overall well-being of the girl child.

    Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” the commissioner noted that the event served as a reminder of the “incredible potential that lies within every girl-child.”

    She explained that the state’s initiative, tagged “Tech a Girl; Pad a Girl Child,” focused on two major needs of the time – digital empowerment and menstrual hygiene.

    “Through today’s event, our ministry is championing digital literacy training to prepare girls for the opportunities of the modern age, while also promoting menstrual health and dignity through the distribution of 5,000 sanitary pads to selected secondary school girls across Ondo State,” Osamaye said.

    She emphasised the need for collective efforts to ensure that every girl can manage her period with dignity, free from fear, judgment, or exclusion.

    READ ALSO: Why we left PDP for APC — Mbah

    According to her, the annual commemoration is also an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary strength of girls who continue to drive positive change despite challenges such as poverty, gender-based violence, early marriage, limited access to education, and menstrual stigma.

    “Girls are not just beneficiaries of development or victims, but powerful drivers of change, creating a better and safer world,” she said.

    Osamaye appreciated partners, volunteers, and stakeholders supporting the empowerment of young girls across the state.

    “Together, we are raising a new generation of confident, healthy, and digitally equipped young women who will continue to lead change on the frontlines of life’s challenges,” she added.

    Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, said the state government remains committed to investing in the future of children through quality education.

    Ajibefun explained that celebrating the girl child would further inspire them to excel beyond expectations.

    Also, a Full Board Member of the Ondo State Hospital Management Board, Mrs. Aarinola Adamolekun, educated the students on healthy living and personal hygiene.

    Similarly, the Chairman of the Ondo State Information Technology Agency (SITA), Tomide Akinribido, engaged the girls in STEM education activities.

  • Community leaders laud incoming executives, urge teamwork, innovation for Abesan development

    Community leaders laud incoming executives, urge teamwork, innovation for Abesan development

    Community leaders and stakeholders have commended the incoming executives of the AERA for their impressive turnout and active participation at the pre-inauguration strategic session held on Saturday, describing the event as a strong signal of their readiness to serve and deliver meaningful change.

    The strategic session, which attracted newly elected executives and key stakeholders, focused on laying a solid foundation for transparent leadership, accountability, and sustainable community development.

    In a message of appreciation, the leadership acknowledged the team’s “insightful contributions, collective enthusiasm, and shared vision” for the estate, noting that their preparedness to “hit the ground running” is crucial to transforming AERA into a model residential community.

    Addressing the new executives, Elder Ogundimu Oduntan, a former President of AERA and the current Chairman of Greenland CDA, offered words of encouragement to the incoming executives. 

    READ ALSO: Finance Minister getting better, says Dare

    He urged them to prioritise teamwork, effective communication, and resident engagement to build trust and drive impactful projects.

    “This session was more than just a meeting; it was the foundation upon which a legacy of transparency, innovation, and community development will be built,” Ogundimu stated, while expressing confidence in the team’s ability to deliver.

    Another respected community leader, Mr Olurotimi Turton, emphasised the need for unity of purpose and shared responsibility among the incoming executives. 

    He noted that the success of the administration would depend on how well each member contributes to the collective vision.

    “Leadership is not a solo effort. Every executive must see themselves as a key pillar in building the kind of community we all desire,” he said. 

    “When everyone plays their part diligently, achieving our strategic goals becomes not just possible but inevitable.”

    Addressing the executives, the excited incoming president, Shina Dare, stated that the impressive turnout, insightful contributions, and collective enthusiasm clearly demonstrated the readiness of the incoming executives to serve and shared commitment to the progress and transformation of our beloved estate.

    “The discussions, ideas, and strategies developed during the session reflect a team that is prepared to hit the ground running, united by a common vision of making AERA a model residential community.

    With the inauguration approaching, expectations are high among residents, who see the new leadership as a beacon of renewed hope for improved infrastructure, security, and communal harmony.

  • International Day for Girl Child: Be agent of change, Makinde’s wife urges

    International Day for Girl Child: Be agent of change, Makinde’s wife urges

    Wife of Oyo Governor Mrs Tamunominini Makinde has urged girl child across the State to be agents for positive change.

    She said girl child should do something different and contribute their quota towards the progress and development of the State.

    Speaking in Ibadan at a programme to commemorate this year’s International Day for the Girl Child, Mrs Makinde called on girls to believe in themselves, focused and make use of their potentials to attained greater heights just as their male counterparts.

    She said: “The world is waiting for your ideas, your brilliance, and your leadership. Let your light shine so bright that even your fears about before your courage. The change our nation needs begins in your classrooms. In your conversation, and in the choices you make every single day. 

    “When you dream, dream big. When you fall, rise again. When you doubt yourself. Remember you are a downtown of your seats and the sky is your starting point as you are. You knew what?

    “My dear daughters, I want to ask you to question, when you leave here, what will you do differently with all that you’ve learned and all you’ll take away? What will you do differently? So ask yourself what’s changed do you want to start to? You are to be brave girl, be unstoppable and be ready for change. 

    Read Also: UK-based Nigerian innovators to unveil CVI AI

    “We are waiting to see you in the future. We hope that you will be that change you are to be. Walk with your head. I believe in yourself. I never stop and dream once again At the International Day of the Girl child.”

    She thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for supporting the programme. 

    Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology Hon. Segun Olayiwola said girls across the State are not just victims of challenges but agent of transformations.

    He stated that being a girl is not limitation to what the girls achieve in life

    He noted that his Ministry appreciate collaboration effort of Makinde’s wife, adding that through her support, many laudable programmes for girls has been carried out.

  • Akinlalu community demands Osun Amotekun commandant’s removal as Adeleke visits over killings

    Akinlalu community demands Osun Amotekun commandant’s removal as Adeleke visits over killings

    …I’ve directed Amotekun board chair to go to Abuja to assist in ongoing probe — Adeleke

    …deceased family demands retraction of Osun Assembly stance on Akinlalu

    The Akinlalu community in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State has called for the removal of the Osun Amotekun Commandant, Isaac Omoyele, following the killing of four residents by operatives of the security outfit.

    Governor Ademola Adeleke on Monday led members of his cabinet, the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, and other top officials to the town to commiserate with the community over the tragic incident.

    The Nation reports that Amotekun operatives had invaded the Akinlalu market square, killing three members of the same family and another resident, while several others sustained gunshot injuries. Omoyele later claimed he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt — a claim the police have since dismissed.

    Following public outrage, the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Inspector-General of Police arrested 25 Amotekun operatives on Wednesday night and sealed the outfit’s operational armoury base at Oke-Fia, Osogbo, as well as its Ife Central office.

    READ ALSO; CREDICORP wins “Consumer Credit Access Company of the Year”

    During the governor’s condolence visit, the Alakinlalu of Akinlalu, Oba Oluwabusola Oloyede, received Adeleke in his palace alongside his chiefs, the victims’ families, community youths, and other sympathizers.

    In a joint address delivered by Oba Oloyede and the community’s youth leader, Musibau Adeboye, the people demanded Omoyele’s removal from office, stressing that his continued stay could heighten tensions.

    They also presented seven other demands to the governor, which they said would help restore peace and rebuild trust between residents and security agencies.

    According to them, “We demand for the immediate suspension of Omoyele. Given the gravity of the allegations and the ensuing communal crisis, we urgently appeal for the immediate and unconditional suspension of the Amotekun Corps Commandant, Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, pending the conclusion of a full and fair investigation. This decisive action is necessary to ensure impartiality and restore public confidence in the investigative process.”

    They highlighted that Adeleke should ensure justice; public clarification to boost trust shattered by the incident; provide support for victims and restitution; restructure Amotekun by suspending Omoyele from office; cessation of intimidation; re-establish local policing, and youth empowerment.

    Also, Aro of Akinlalu, Chief Kamorudeen Oyebamiji, who lost three family members to the incident, berated the stance of Osun State House of Assembly through the Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, condemning the police intervention over the probe of the killings.

    He demanded retraction of the stance, saying the community is not pleased with his position on the matter.

    He said, “We want to urge the Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, to retract his stance he read to the media about the Akinlalu killing, where he called for reopening of the Amotekun base. The stance infuriated us a lot. Since the incident occurred, we have not been going to work. At least the Speaker read the response of the Governor to the situation, we want to urge Governor Ademola Adeleke to prevail on the Speaker to retract the House of Assembly stance over the incident.”

    Responding to the community, Adeleke promised that he would assist the community and the families of the slain victims and others to get justice.

    He said, “I was in pain when this happened. I was in America when it happened. I came here directly to tell you how touched I am. I am so sorry that this kind of thing happened. I brought everybody here to tell you that you are important.

    “I want to greet you, our mothers. I know that you are in support of this government. You showed a sense of gratitude for the road our government constructed. I want us all to observe a minute’s silence for those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident. All those who are affected, I want to assure you all that they will face the full wrath of the law.”

    Adeleke noted, “On the demand of the suspense of Omoyele, you talked about, we are working on it. I have directed the Chairman of the Amotekun Board to go to Abuja to ensure a thorough investigation. I have ensured that those who are in the hospital are well taken care of. The ventilators they are requesting for the victims are underway. Their care is my priority at this time. I thank the youths that they are steadfast in ensuring peace. 

    “On the request for the suspension of the Amotekun Commandant, Isaac Omoyele, the matter is ongoing, as I’m talking to you, it has been handed over to the Amotekun Chairman, Wale Abass, for thorough investigation.”

    The Chief of Staff, Kazeem Akinleye, prayed for the community and the victims of the attack, admonishing them to take solace in God.

    In the address of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, who was represented by the DCP Operations, Taiwo Yusuf, assured the community of justice, describing the incident as unfortunate, and commended the community for upholding peace during the incident.

    He said, “The sad event that happened, nobody is happy, it is an avoidable occurrence, but I want to assure the people of Akinlalu that we are not resting to ensure justice for the victims. I want to tell you today that we have arrested some Amotekun, over 20 of them.”

  • Court fixes Nov. 27 for hearing on tenure elongation of Osun APC reinstated LG chairmen 

    Court fixes Nov. 27 for hearing on tenure elongation of Osun APC reinstated LG chairmen 

    A Federal High Court sitting in Osogbo, Osun State, on Monday fixed November 27, 2025, for hearing in a suit seeking tenure elongation for the reinstated chairmen and councillors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) till 2028.

    The Nation reports that the reinstated APC chairmen filed the suit, marked FHC/OS/CS/147/2025, against the Attorney General of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, the Osun State Governor, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC), and the Osun State House of Assembly.

    The claimants, led by Saheed Onibonokuta and seven other local council chairmen, are seeking an extension of their tenure beyond its scheduled expiration in October 2025, following their reinstatement by the Court of Appeal in February 2025. 

    They are also challenging the validity of the local government elections conducted by Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration in February 2025.

    READ ALSO; CREDICORP wins “Consumer Credit Access Company of the Year”

    Among the reliefs sought are determinations on whether they are entitled to three years in office starting from February 2025 and whether OSIEC acted lawfully by conducting fresh elections into their offices on February 22, 2025, while their tenure was still subsisting.

    At Monday’s sitting, counsel for the claimants, Barrister Muhydeen Adeoye, filed a motion seeking to restrain the defendants from interfering with his clients’ duties pending the determination of the substantive suit.

    However, counsel representing the 3rd and 4th defendants, Barrister F.K. Labo-Popoola; the 5th defendant, Barrister Rachael Ojomi; and the 6th defendant, Barrister J.A. Ayanyemi, jointly argued that they were still within time to respond to the originating summons.

    Presiding judge, Justice Adefunmilola Demi-Ajayi, observed that service of court processes was yet to be completed and directed counsel to ensure all parties are duly served before the next sitting.

    Justice Demi-Ajayi, who had earlier assured of an expedited hearing, adjourned the case to November 27, 2025, for further proceedings.

  • NHN Women Network to empower women with retreat in Doha, Shanghai

    NHN Women Network to empower women with retreat in Doha, Shanghai

    In a move to advance women’s empowerment across the globe, the NHN Women Network has announced its anticipated 10th Annual Retreat, scheduled to take place across two continents—Doha, Qatar, and Shanghai, China—from October 13 to October 23.

    Under the compelling theme: “The Total Woman Building a Confident and a Secured Woman,” this transformative event aims to equip women with vital tools and insights to excel amid today’s ever-changing world.

    Founded by   Mrs. Nkechi Harry Ngonadi, the NHN Women Network has established itself as a formidable platform dedicated to advocating for women’s rights, fostering community, and nurturing leadership.

    Celebrating its  10th anniversary, the network marks a decade of impactful initiatives—ranging from education and spiritual growth to community service and economic empowerment.

    Dr. Ngonadi, also the CEO of NHN Couture, emphasizes the network’s mission to harness social media for kingdom purposes, highlighting the organization’s significant growth over the past eight years.

    She underscores the retreat’s theme as a reflection of every woman’s journey to realize her divine calling, emphasizing that “a total woman is a masterpiece of God’s creation—fearfully and wonderfully made.”

    She advocates for embracing true identity, cultivating self-awareness, and developing a sense of purpose as core to building confidence and security.

    The retreat is designed as a life-changing experience, focusing on enduring trials, carrying burdens, overcoming exhaustion, and trusting the divine process, as encapsulated in 1 Peter 5:10.

    Read Also: E1 Lagos GP: Winning with sports, First Bank’s legacy

    Attendees will find opportunities for spiritual renewal, emotional strength, and renewed purpose, all within a supportive community.

    Key elements of the retreat include self-discovery—understanding strengths, weaknesses, and passions—inner strength development through resilience and emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven living by discovering values and pursuing goals. The event will also emphasize building a support system of positive relationships and empowering principles such as faith, self-care, personal growth, and community service.

    Dr. Ngonadi  elaborates on the network’s mission through NHN THE WARROOM, which centers on prayer and intercession.

     She states that the organization’s goal is to reach the world through prayer, interceding for lost souls and winning them to Christ, reflecting the spiritual foundation of the network.

    The retreat aims to elevate participants’ spiritual, physical, and mental wellness by providing a rejuvenating environment for women to rest, unwind, and share their stories.

    The ultimate goal is to equip women with the tools and inspiration to triumph over life’s challenges.

     Over the years, the network has achieved remarkable milestones, reaching over 12 million individuals through media, building ten rural churches, supporting missionaries, funding school fees in eight Nigerian states, paying for hospital bills, and engaging in various economic empowerment programs.

    Inspired by scriptures such as Matthew 6:33 and Job 42:10, the network commits two hours and sixty minutes daily to prayer and fasting, conducting regular meetings, quarterly fasting sessions, and annual events to further its mission.

    This year’s retreat in Doha and China promises an inspiring lineup of renowned speakers, including Pastor Kingsley & Mildred Okonkwo, Pastor Eno Jerry, Pastor Tinu Asegieme, Pastor David & Pastor Sunmbo Adeoye, Dr. Stephen Akintayo, Pastor Gideon Mba, Dr. Reuben and Kike Abati, Rev. Christie Bature, Mrs. Tara Fela-Durotoye, Amaka Chika Mbonu, Apostle Kadesha Jenkins, Betty Irabor, and many more.

    Participants can look forward to a rich schedule of workshops, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions focused on personal development, mental health, financial literacy, and effective leadership—designed to foster community and empower women from diverse backgrounds.

    Dr. Ngonadi emphasizes the importance of the theme, stating, “In a world where women face numerous challenges, it is crucial that we create spaces where they can build confidence and feel secure in their identities. Our mission extends beyond education—we aim to transform lives through empowerment and spiritual revival.”

    For more information and registration details, visit www.nhnthewarroom.com. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to be part of a global movement dedicated to uplifting women and transforming lives through faith, purpose, and empowerment.

  • Aiyedatiwa hails Tinubu for establishing Southwest Development Commission

    Aiyedatiwa hails Tinubu for establishing Southwest Development Commission

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing South West Development Commission (SWDC).

    He described it as a strategic initiative that would bridge developmental gaps and unlock the region’s economic potential.

    President Tinubu had in March signed the SWDC Bill into law, mandating the commission to enhance infrastructure, economic growth and social welfare across Southwest.

    The legislation was sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, and received support from both chambers of the National Assembly before its final assent.

    Speaking over the weekend at a thanksgiving reception held in honour of Dr. Jide Adewinle, the newly-appointed federal commissioner representing Ondo State in the commission, Aiyedatiwa said the creation of SWDC would help address developmental disparities and promote sustainable regional growth.

    “The establishment of South West Development Commission is a laudable step by the Federal Government to tackle developmental imbalances, harness regional potential and promote sustainable growth.

    Read Also: E1 Lagos GP: Winning with sports, First Bank’s legacy

    “With the right leadership and collaboration, the commission will serve as a veritable tool for economic revitalisation, infrastructural renewal and social transformation in our region,” he said.

    The governor pledged his administration’s readiness to collaborate with the commission to advance infrastructural renewal, industrialisation and youth empowerment across Ondo’s 18 local governments.

    He described the appointment of Adewinle as well-deserved, noting that it was a recognition of competence, capacity and character.

    “Over the years, Dr Adewinle has demonstrated exceptional commitment to community development, youth empowerment and professionalism,” Aiyedatiwa said.

    “His appointment further projects Ondo State as a reservoir of capable men and women, who can stand tall anywhere in service to our nation.”

    The governor urged the new appointee to embrace humility, inclusiveness and vision in his stewardship.

    “Leadership is stewardship imbued with humility and accountability. Let your service reflect diligence and integrity. Expectations are high, but I’m confident you will make Ondo proud,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa said the state government would continue to work with SWDC and other federal institutions to ensure Ondo people benefited from ongoing and future developmental projects.

    Dr Adewinle expressed gratitude to God, President Tinubu and Governor Aiyedatiwa for the opportunity to serve, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him.

    He described the commission as a platform designed to promote education, infrastructure, welfare and economic empowerment, positioning Southwest for sustainable development.

    The Chairman of Okitipupa Local Government, Andrew Ogunsakin, hailed the governor for approving a 5km road project in the council and lauded the ongoing projects across the state.

    The thanksgiving, held at Adekunbi Hall, Iye Ile Resort Centre, Ode-Aye, drew dignitaries from across the country, including traditional rulers, political associates and well-wishers, who joined in celebrating the new appointee.

  • CSOs, APC disagree on opposition lawmakers’ defection

    CSOs, APC disagree on opposition lawmakers’ defection

    The Coalition of All Civil Society Organisations in Ondo State (CACSOD) and All Progressives Congress (APC) have clashed over the mass defection of opposition lawmakers in the House of Assembly to the ruling party.

    This came after two lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Oladiji Oguntudo – representing Akure South Constituency I, and Raymond Daodu, Deputy Minority Leader – representing Akoko South West Constituency I, officially announced their defection to the APC at the plenary of the House of Assembly.

    Before their defection, Messrs Oguntudo and Daodu were the remaining PDP members in the state legislature, presided over by the Speaker, Olamide Oladiji, which is dominated by the APC.

    The defection of the two lawmakers from the PDP now makes it a total of 26 APC legislators dominating the House of Assembly, with no opposition in the parliament.

    While CACSOD described the development as a major threat to democracy and accountability, APC countered, saying the decision of the PDP lawmakers to defect to its fold was a testament to the ruling party’s commitment to delivering results and transforming lives.

    In a statement issued over the weekend and signed by its Chairman, Alo Martins, the civil society group expressed worry that legislature without opposition was dangerous for governance and public accountability.

    According to the group, “a democratic system without an effective opposition is a democracy in name only.

    “Opposition lawmakers are essential for checks and balances, rigorous policy debates and oversight of the executive arm. When the legislature becomes a one-party chamber, it risks degenerating into a rubber stamp, unable to question policies, demand transparency, or defend citizens’ interests.”

    The group described the mass defection as a “betrayal of the electorate’s trust,” noting that the lawmakers were elected based on specific party manifestos and platforms.

    CACSOD said: “Voters who supported opposition candidates now find themselves represented by members of the ruling party without their consent. Such political opportunism undermines the integrity of elections and erodes citizens’ faith in the democratic process.”

    Read Also: E1 Lagos GP: Winning with sports, First Bank’s legacy

    The coalition called on the National Assembly and the ongoing Constitution Review Committee to strengthen the anti-defection law, particularly Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which allows defections on the grounds of internal party division.

    It said the clause had been “grossly abused by politicians, who manufactured or exaggerated internal crises to justify crossing over to the ruling side.”

    CACSOD added: “We further call for a constitutional amendment that makes it mandatory for any elected official, who wishes to defect from the party under which they were elected, to first resign from office and seek a fresh mandate under their new platform.”

    The group warned that the absence of opposition in the assembly could erode accountability, stifle dissenting voices and embolden impunity in governance.

    It urged citizens to be vigilant and reject politicians who engaged in “political carpet-crossing” for personal gain.

    But in a swift reaction, the APC dismissed the criticism, describing the defections as a validation of the party’s progressive governance under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    In a statement signed by its Director, Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the party explained that both leaders had demonstrated a commitment to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.

    APC said it rejected the notion that the political movement was a betrayal of democratic values, maintaining that in a competitive polity, elected representatives retained the right to choose the platform that best enabled them to serve their constituents.