The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Aiyedatiwa commends Tinubu for establishing south-west development commission

    Aiyedatiwa commends Tinubu for establishing south-west development commission

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has praised President Bola Tinubu for establishing the South-West Development Commission (SWDC), describing it as a strategic move to bridge developmental gaps and unlock the region’s vast economic potential.

    President Tinubu signed the SWDC Bill into law in March 2025, mandating the commission to drive infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare across the South-West. The bill, sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel representing Ogun East, received overwhelming support from both chambers of the National Assembly before its final assent.

    Speaking at a thanksgiving reception held in honour of Dr. Jide Martins Adewinle, the newly appointed Federal Commissioner representing Ondo State in the commission, Aiyedatiwa said the SWDC would address regional disparities and promote sustainable development.

    “The establishment of the South-West Development Commission is a laudable step by the Federal Government to tackle developmental imbalances, harness regional potential, and promote sustainable growth. 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 reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to partner with the commission to advance infrastructure renewal, industrialisation, and youth empowerment across Ondo State’s 18 local government areas.

    He also described the appointment of Dr. 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.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa to students: be patient, Tinubu’s reforms yielding results

    “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 that you will make Ondo proud,” he added.

    Aiyedatiwa also assured that the state government would continue to work closely with the SWDC and other federal institutions to ensure Ondo people benefit maximally from ongoing and future developmental projects.

    “Our administration will continue to collaborate with the Commission to enhance regional integration, agricultural development, industrialisation, and youth empowerment—key pillars of our development agenda,” he said.

    In his response, 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 the South-West for sustainable development.

    According to him, the establishment of the SWDC aligns with the visionary blueprint of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose policies in education, agriculture, and infrastructure transformed the region into Nigeria’s economic hub.

    “What President Tinubu has done through this Commission is a continuation of Chief Awolowo’s dream for a prosperous South-West – a region driven by unity, innovation, and progress,” Adewinle said.

    “The Commission will rekindle that legacy by driving growth in education, welfare, and infrastructure.”

    He further explained that the SWDC would address the challenges of centralised development by implementing region-specific projects to boost economic fortunes and create jobs.

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

    The Thanksgiving event, 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.

  • Rights group faults FIJ over ‘false’ corruption report, accuses platform of unethical journalism

    Rights group faults FIJ over ‘false’ corruption report, accuses platform of unethical journalism

    A civil society organisation, the Niger Delta Rights Advocates (NDRA), has condemned the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) over what it described as an “unethical and misleading” report alleging corruption against a public servant under the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

    In a statement issued on Sunday, the Director of Research and Documentation at NDRA, Dr. Chuks Alozie, accused FIJ of publishing a one-sided story that allegedly maligned Mr. Adagiri Ismail, a senior officer of the NCoS.

    Alozie said FIJ’s online reports of October 6 and 8, 2025, portrayed a suspect currently facing trial as a victim and hero, in a manner inconsistent with the standards of professional journalism.

    Read Also: PDP candidate in Zamfara by-election defects to APC

    “FIJ’s reports of October 6 and 8 were clear attempts at hoodwinking the public. They portrayed a suspected criminal standing trial before an FCT High Court (Charge No. CR/669/23) as a hero, which runs contrary to journalistic ethics,” Alozie stated.

    According to the NDRA, the case stemmed from an alleged act of impersonation and forgery of Mr. Ismail’s office documents. 

    The suspect, identified as Aliyu Raji, was said to have used forged letterheads and office insignia to obtain millions of naira through false pretences and fraudulent contract awards.

    Alozie noted that the suspect was initially granted bail and subsequently approached FIJ for media coverage after filing a fundamental rights suit against the complainant and the police. 

    The court, however, reportedly dismissed the case and awarded ₦1 million in costs against the applicant in favour of all respondents.

    The NDRA accused FIJ of failing to exercise due diligence by not investigating all sides of the story or granting Mr. Ismail a right of reply before publication.

    The group demanded an immediate retraction or corrigendum from the online platform, insisting that the reports breached the ethical codes governing responsible journalism.

    “While citizen journalism strengthens democracy, it must not be used as a tool for defamation or sedition. Defending the rights of an individual facing criminal prosecution should never come at the expense of truth, fairness, and balance”, Alozie warned.

    The NDRA reaffirmed its commitment to media freedom but urged journalists and citizen reporters alike to uphold the principles of integrity and impartiality when handling sensitive corruption-related cases.

  • ASCSN members picket solidarity house, demand transparent election

    ASCSN members picket solidarity house, demand transparent election

    Over 150 members of the Lagos State Council of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) for the second time in less than a month stormed the state secretariat popularly known as “solidarity house”, locking it up over alleged imposition.

    In the past few months, Lagos ASCSN chapter has been engulfed in crisis since its emergency delegates’ conference where members unanimously resolved to remove the state secretary. 

    But the national leadership’s letter nullifying the conference has now escalated the situation, with the state chapter insisting it will resist what it called “undemocratic interference.”

    The aggrieved members, who converged as early as 8:00am, carried placards with inscriptions such as “No to imposition,” “Our constitution must be respected,” and “We stand for democracy,” chanting solidarity songs and vowing not to back down until justice is served.

    Addressing the gathering on behalf of the aggrieved members, Comrade Rotimi accused the embattled secretary of contesting an election he was not qualified for and declaring himself winner.

    “The actions of the state secretary, including contesting an election he wasn’t qualified for and declaring himself winner, are unacceptable,” Rotimi declared.

    Read Also: PDP candidate in Zamfara by-election defects to APC

    “The forceful reopening of our secretariat based on a biased letter from the National Secretary General is a clear disregard for our rules and procedures enshrined in Rule 19 of our constitution. By locking up the secretariat again, we are protecting our Association’s integrity, upholding democratic principles, and demanding a fair and transparent process.”

    The aggrieved members, in their charter of demands, called for the immediate intervention of relevant authorities, a thorough investigation into the alleged misconduct, and a new, transparent election in line with the agreement reached with the leadership of Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, at the aborted September 17, 2025 election.

    According to them, the alleged imposition of the state secretary undermines the union’s democratic values and threatens industrial harmony in the state civil service.

    “We will not be intimidated or silenced. We stand united in defense of our Association,” Rotimi added to the cheers of the crowd.

    Security operatives have been stationed around the premises to prevent any breakdown of law and order, with members vowing to maintain their lock-up action until their demands are met.

  • Tinubu Media Force commends FCCPC boss Bello for advancing Renewed Hope agenda

    Tinubu Media Force commends FCCPC boss Bello for advancing Renewed Hope agenda

    The Tinubu Media Force (TMF), Nigeria’s largest progressive grassroots media network, has commended Tunji Bello, Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), for his outstanding leadership and alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    During a courtesy visit to the FCCPC headquarters in Abuja, Gbenga Abiola, national coordinator of the group, praised Bello for his commitment to fairness, transparency, and consumer protection across Nigeria’s business landscape. 

    He described Bello’s leadership as a reflection of President Tinubu’s vision for a just and inclusive economy that prioritizes the welfare of citizens.

    Under Bello’s leadership, the FCCPC has strengthened regulatory oversight, promoted accountability, and ensured fair competition in the marketplace. 

    The Commission was named government agency of the year 2023 after generating ₦56 billion in Internally Generated Revenue, with ₦22.4 billion remitted to the federal government from enforcement penalties and compliance actions.

    Read Also: Ballon d’Or: NFF congratulates Nnadozie, Madugu

    The FCCPC has also implemented several consumer-focused initiatives, including the Patient Bill of Rights, clampdowns on illegal digital money lenders, and interventions in the power sector to safeguard consumers. 

    The Commission continues to collaborate with agencies such as the NCC, NERC, NAFDAC, SON, and EFCC to promote fairness and consumer welfare nationwide.

    A key issue discussed during the visit was the FCCPC’s ongoing engagement with MultiChoice Nigeria over its March 2025 subscription price hike. 

    Bello reaffirmed that such actions must comply with fairness and transparency laws. 

    Abiola commended his courage in defending consumer rights, describing it as a true expression of the Renewed Hope spirit.

    He assured Bello of the Tinubu Media Force’s continued collaboration in public enlightenment and grassroots communication on the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    He emphasised that the group remains committed to projecting the achievements of the Tinubu administration and promoting transparency across all sectors.

    He encouraged Mr. Bello and his team to sustain their efforts in protecting consumers, adding that through the FCCPC’s work, Nigerians can see the values of Renewed Hope, fairness, accountability, and citizen empowerment being translated into meaningful action.

  • Bandits abduct tipper driver, motor boy escapes in Ondo

    Bandits abduct tipper driver, motor boy escapes in Ondo

    The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has confirmed the abduction of a tipper driver, identified as Tobi Abdulmalik Oluwatuyi, at Ilu Abo, in the Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

    Oluwatuyi was reportedly kidnapped by suspected armed men in the early hours of Friday.

    Confirming the incident, the Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, said the victim was seized by the gunmen after his truck developed a fault along the Akure/Owo Highway, leading to the Ilu Abo community.

    According to him, while the driver was making efforts to fix the faulty truck, the assailants suddenly emerged from the bush and dragged him away at gunpoint.

    Adeleye added that the driver’s assistant, popularly known as a motor boy, managed to escape and quickly alerted the owner of the truck, Monday Ayesoro.

    Read Also: Ex-Ondo First Lady seeks Owerri zone Senate seat again

    The Amotekun commander further disclosed that operatives of the corps, in collaboration with local vigilante groups, have launched an intensive bush-combing operation to rescue the victim.

    “We are already combing the forest and have blocked the routes leading to Ise- in Ekiti State to prevent the kidnappers from escaping. We are on top of the situation and determined to secure the victim’s release,” Adeleye assured.

    The latest abduction at Ilu Abo has heightened fears among locals that criminal gangs are operating with increasing boldness in Akure North LGA.

    Amid the ugly development, community leaders and traders have increased calls for stepped-up patrols, better intelligence-sharing, and immediate action from both state security outfits and the police to prevent more attacks.

  • Akinlalu killings: Ex-Osun Amotekun commandant tasks Adeleke to hand over fleeing Omoyele to IGP

    Akinlalu killings: Ex-Osun Amotekun commandant tasks Adeleke to hand over fleeing Omoyele to IGP

    • Seeks proper profiling of new recruits into Amotekun

    The pioneer Osun State Commandant of Amotekun, Chief Amitolu Shittu, has urged Governor Ademola Adeleke to hand over fleeing Commandant of the outfit, Isaac Omoyele to Inspector General of the Police over killings of Akinlalu town by his corps.

    The Nation reports that Amotekun operatives 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 dismissed.

    Subsequently, the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the IGP arrested 25 Amotekun corps on Wednesday night. It sealed their operational-amoury base at Oke-Fia, Osogbo, including the outfit’s Ife Central Office.

    Speaking with newsmen on Saturday, Amitolu condemned the killings of innocent residents in Osun State by Amotekun corps, noting that “Since I left office, the outfit has been personalised by its new leadership which makes Amotekun to derail from the reason for its creation.”

    Speaking about the recruitment of 1,000 corps, he said “The present leadership engaged the services of ex -convicts, thugs and cultists. I want to charge Governor Adeleke, if he cannot disband the corps, he should investigate and profile them to know who was recruited.

    Read Also: Adeleke orders probe into Osun killings

    “Presently, what we are facing is criminal masquerading, Isaac Omoyele, personalizing Amotekun for pecuniary gains. We seized vehicles from some robbers when I was serving but today, Omoyele has disposed of the properties recovered from robbers.

    “Adeleke should investigate the activities of Amotekun, as the corps is now involved in a personal security guard and they collect money which is never remitted into the coffers of the government. The outfit was never meant to man personal property.

    “Since I left office in January 2023, Amotekun has been personalised by Omoyele for his own venture.

    “Criminals have found their ways into Amotekun, majority of those that are  ex-convicts, cultists and those with criminal records are recruited into the outfit. Governor must look for ways to flush them out.”

  • Police reaffirm people-centered policing, strengthen community partnership

    Police reaffirm people-centered policing, strengthen community partnership

    The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has restated the command’s commitment to community-driven and people-centered policing, emphasizing that citizens are the most vital partners in crime prevention and public safety.

    Jimoh made the remark during an interactive stakeholders’ meeting held at the POWA Multipurpose Hall, Ikeja, as part of activities marking the 2025 Customer Service Week.

    The event brought together members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders from across the state to discuss ways of deepening collaboration between the police and the public.

    Describing the Customer Service Week as a global initiative aimed at strengthening the bond between service providers and the people they serve, the Commissioner said the Police under Inspector-General, (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun, have adopted it to promote accountability, empathy, and public trust in policing.

    “Policing is about service to humanity. Without the people, there can be no police. Community policing means placing citizens at the center of our priorities. We must listen to the people, understand their challenges, and work together to find lasting solutions,” said CP Jimoh.

    Read Also: Adeleke orders probe into Osun killings

    He noted that the command had earlier conducted a free medical outreach for Lagos residents as part of the celebration, noting that social support and welfare were also part of policing.

    The police boss explained that many disputes handled by the service are not purely criminal but require mediation and early intervention to prevent violence. “When we step in to resolve domestic misunderstandings or non-criminal complaints, it is to preserve peace before things escalate,” he said.

    As the festive season approaches, the Commissioner assured Lagosians of enhanced security, saying the command had reviewed its strategies to match the tempo of increased commercial and travel activities.

    “We have intensified patrols and adopted proactive crime-prevention measures across the state. Lagosians should sleep with their eyes closed,” he assured.

    CP imoh commended officers of the command for professionalism and discipline, noting that cases of misconduct were being decisively addressed to sustain public trust.

    Participants at the meeting applauded the police for progress in reducing crimes such as robbery, cultism, and thuggery. They, however, urged intensified efforts against “one chance” robberies and drug abuse among youths.

    They pledged continued partnership with the police through intelligence sharing and community sensitization to maintain peace and order across Lagos State.

  • Monarch urges National Assembly to revisit bill for Lisa Memorial Arcade recognition

    Monarch urges National Assembly to revisit bill for Lisa Memorial Arcade recognition

    In a passionate appeal during a high-level community engagement session, held in the Oyero area of Ifo Local Government, Ogun State,  Oba Oladele Najeem Ayinla Odugbemi, Alli Odu I, the Onilisa of Lisa, Ogun State, has called on the National Assembly to revisit and accelerate the bill seeking federal recognition and development of the Lisa Memorial Arcade. 

    The stakeholder engagement event, which coincided with the inspection of the Odo Awela Bridge project facilitated by Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle Isiaka, Deputy Chief Whip of the Federal House of Representatives, took place along the Oyero–Lisa Road corridor.

    It was attended by Hon. Folawewo Fatiu Salami of the Ogun State House of Assembly (Ifo Constituency 2); Chairman, Ifo Local Government, Hon. Kusimo Idris Olalekan; past chairmen of Ifo, APC party leaders, and Community Development Committee (ACDC) leaders from Oyero, Lisa, Oluke, and neighbouring communities. 

    Speaking on behalf of the 32 communities under the Ifesowapo Forum, Oba Odugbemi emphasised the historical and emotional significance of the Lisa Memorial Arcade, which was established following the tragic Bellview Airlines crash of 22 October 2005. The disaster claimed 117 lives and brought global attention to Lisa town. The memorial, inaugurated by then President Olusegun Obasanjo and Governor Gbenga Daniel, was intended to serve as a lasting tribute and a catalyst for development—but has since fallen into neglect. 

    Read Also: Tinubu declines assent to two National Assembly Bills

    “Nearly two decades later, the once-hallowed ground has been abandoned to bush and erosion,” the monarch lamented. “We ask the National Assembly to give this site the national attention it deserves by transforming it into a tourist and educational landmark. Let the memories of the departed be honoured with dignity, and let our communities benefit from the infrastructure that was once promised.” 

    Oba Odugbemi also addressed a lingering misconception that the region is sparsely populated or dominated by farmland. “From Oyero to Lisa, Arugudu to Sonde, Oluke to Layemi, our area is home to journalists, engineers, entrepreneurs, farmers, and professionals across many fields. We are not just cassava stems—we are builders of the nation.” 

    In response, Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka confirmed that the bill for the rehabilitation and federal recognition of the Lisa Memorial Arcade had already been presented to the House of Representatives. “I assure you, Kabiyesi and the good people of Ifesowapo, that this bill will be given the necessary push. It is not just about the monument—it is about the dignity of our people and the roads that lead to it. We are committed to seeing this through,” Hon. Isiaka stated. 

    The engagement session also brought to light broader infrastructural concerns, notably the impassable 10.5-kilometre Ijoko–Oyero–Lisa access road, which continues to hinder economic growth and restrict access to healthcare and education for thousands of residents. 

    The Onilisa concluded with a call for youth and women empowerment, urging government intervention to unlock the potential of the region’s vibrant population.   “We are ready to work hand in hand with the government. Let this visit mark the beginning of visible transformation. May history remembers those who stood with the voiceless until they were heard.” 

  • Family decries illegal sales of properties, seeks government intervention

    Family decries illegal sales of properties, seeks government intervention

    The Awojiya Family Descendants in Epe Local Government Area, Lagos State, have expressed deep concern over the unlawful sales and purchase of their ancestral land in the Abomiti-Nla resettlement area.

    The family, in a resolution reached during a meeting held at their ancestral venue on September 27, 2025, declared that no portion of their land is available for sale and that any transaction carried out without the collective consent of the family remains invalid.

    Abomiti-Nla, a historic community under the Abomiti zone in the Lagos Free Trade Zone resettlement scheme, is one of 13 villages founded by the family’s forefathers. The community, divided into four quarters ;Abomiti, Aba Awojiya, Aba Iseotan, and Aba Ajegunle has long been known for its cultural heritage, political relevance, and proximity to the lagoon, which made it a thriving fishing settlement in earlier years.

    According to the family, attempts by certain individuals to sell portions of the land without proper authorization have created growing tension in the area.

     They maintained that only decisions made collectively at the family’s ancestral venue carry legal and moral weight, and any sale conducted outside that framework would be considered null and void.

    The Awojiya descendants called on relevant authorities, including the Lagos State House of Assembly member representing Epe Constituency I, Hon. Mustain Abiodun Tobun, to intervene to prevent further conflict.

    They also urged the Community Welfare Committee (CWC) in the zone to remain impartial in handling issues related to land ownership.

    Read Also: SWAN petitions DSS over plot to hold illegal election in Lagos

    The Family representative and Acting Secretary, Mr Mustapha Salami noted that Abomiti-Nla has produced prominent individuals who have contributed to the development of Epe and Lagos State at large.

     He warned that indiscriminate land sales could lead to the extinction of the community’s identity, including the relocation or renaming of the historic Abomiti Primary School.

    “We are determined to protect the legacy of our ancestors and ensure that our land remains a living inheritance for future generations.

     “We will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone found encroaching on or illegally selling our ancestral property.”

    The family reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence but stressed that it would continue to defend its rights within the bounds of the law to preserve Abomiti-Nla’s historical and cultural identity.

  • We’ll ensure legislative arm promote true democracy – OGHASC chairman

    We’ll ensure legislative arm promote true democracy – OGHASC chairman

    The Chairman, Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission, Rt. Hon. Suraj Adekunbi has assured that the Commission under his leadership would ensure that the legislative arm of government truly promotes democracy .

    Adekunbi who gave the assurance during a study tour of the Commission to the Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission in Lagos, said basically the tour was based on quest for innovations and also to draw from the wealth of knowledge and experience from the Commission to enhance better productivity in the legislative arm of Ogun State government.

    Applauding the Acting Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission, Ms.Habibat Omowunmi Ogbara, members of the Commission and the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa for the swift response towards the study tour, the erstwhile Speaker commended the collaboration that the two States enjoys.

    Read Also: Tinubu declines assent to two National Assembly Bills

    On her part, the Acting Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission, Ms. Habibat Omowunmi Ogbara, urged team Ogun to create synergy with its House of Assembly and the mainstream to achieve smooth operation in the legislative arm.

    In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission, Mr. Taiwo Opaleye acknowledged that the Ogun Assembly Commission has the same work pattern with the Lagos Assembly Commission, stating that the Commission would work on some areas to improve quality of service delivery.

    Lending her voice, the Commissioner III, Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Folakemi Akintayo appreciated the Lagos Commission’s team for the warm welcome and for exposing them to their wealth of knowledge, noting that Ogun Assembly Commission would not relent in giving its best to the legislative arm of government.