The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • First Lady distributes 370,000 sanitary pads nationwide

    First Lady distributes 370,000 sanitary pads nationwide

    • Ekiti girls to get 10,000

    First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a national menstrual health project under her Renewed Hope Initiative, tagged: ‘Flow with Confidence’, with the distribution of 370,000 sanitary pads to teenage girls across the country.

    The programme is aimed at empowering schoolgirls, promoting menstrual hygiene and restoring their dignity during their menstrual cycle.

    At the Ekiti State launch at Lady Jibowu Hall, Ado-Ekiti, Senator Tinubu was represented by the governor’s wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who also serves as the state coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

    She said Ekiti received 10,000 sanitary pads to be distributed equitably across the state, particularly in rural communities where many girls struggled to access such products.

    Dr. Oyebanji described the programme as a timely intervention to address the challenges faced by adolescent girls, especially the stigma, ridicule and loss of self-confidence that often accompanied menstruation in schools.

    “It is wrong for girls to miss school during their periods because they cannot afford sanitary pads or fear stained clothes. Through this initiative, young girls will not only receive sanitary pads, but also gain the confidence to embrace their education without disruption. This gesture is about health, dignity and self-esteem,” she said.

    Read Also: Youths turn sanitary pads to drugs, says NDLEA

    She urged beneficiaries not to sell the pads, but to use them properly, emphasising that the project was designed to safeguard their health and prevent infections linked to unhygienic alternatives such as rags or tissues.

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, lauded Senator Tinubu’s compassion and dedication to the welfare of women and girls nationwide.

    He said the initiative would reduce school absenteeism among girls and protect their dignity.

    “This is a laudable step towards ensuring menstrual health, reducing the risk of infections and enabling our girls to stay in school with confidence. We appreciate the First Lady for extending this support to every state. We are particularly grateful for the 10,000 pads allocated to Ekiti,” he said.

    The event also featured a lecture delivered by Dr. Olukemi Akinyemi of the Department of Guidance and Counselling, University of Ibadan, who encouraged the girls to view menstruation not as a source of shame, but as a natural process and a sign of strength.

    “Menstruation is not something to hide or be embarrassed about. It is part of womanhood. Use your sanitary pads correctly, maintain good hygiene and talk to your mothers, sisters, or trusted adults whenever you need guidance. Above all, never let menstruation hold you back from achieving your dreams,” she said.

    The gathering, attended by state officials, members of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), women’s groups such as Amazons, and schoolgirls, underscored the importance of menstrual health in sustaining girls’ education. Beneficiaries expressed joy and gratitude, noting that the pads would help them attend school regularly and boost their confidence among peers.

  • Court quashes suspension of NURTW by Makinde

    Court quashes suspension of NURTW by Makinde

    Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, has overturned the suspension of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the state.

    The appellate court quashed the order issued by Governor Seyi Makinde in 2019 and declared it as unlawful.

    Governor Makinde had, on May 31, 2019, proscribed the activities of NURTW in the state, citing breach of peace.

    The governor had also announced the immediate takeover of motor parks by the state government.

    Challenging the order, the union, through its counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), filed a suit at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) on July 19, 2021, seeking to nullify the governor’s order.

    However, the lower court dismissed the suit on March 23, 2022, saying it lacked jurisdiction to hear the suit.

    Read Also: Ban on NURTW, RTEAN: 10 illegal revenue collectors arrested in Edo

    Dissatisfied with the judgment, NURTW filed an appeal on April 22, 2022, in which it argued that the state government lacked the legal authority to suspend the operations of a trade union registered under the Trade Union Act CAP T14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

    The union’s counsel, Falana, raised two issues for determination by the appellate court.

    Falana asked the court to determine: “Whether the lower court’s failure/ neglect to consider, resolve and pronounce on all issues legitimately raised and canvassed by the appellant’s counsel not a miscarriage of justice on the union.”

    He also asked the appellate court to determine: “whether the executive governor of Oyo State or his agents are vested with the power to proscribe or suspend the operation of NURTW in the state, which is a trade union registered under Trade Union Act CAP T14 Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

    The union’s counsel argued that it was trite that a court rendered a decision on every issue properly raised before it.

    The appellant argued that the trial court erred in law to reach its decision without considering the merit of the case in line with objection raised by the union against counter affidavit of the state government.

    While the Attorney-General of Oyo State, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, argued that the suspension of NURTW was as a result of a breakdown of law and order, the union’s counsel countered by submitting that there was no evidence of any breakdown of law and order.

    Falana also questioned the legal power of Governor Makinde to suspend NURTW, as all trade unions were on the exclusive legislative list of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

    The three-man panel in its lead judgment delivered by Justice Kenneth Amadi ruled that Oyo State Government failed to provide evidence of any breach of peace or public order that would justify the suspension of the union’s activities.

    “Nowhere in the counter affidavit filed by the respondents at the lower court did they aver that the conduct of the appellant warranted a suspension on the grounds of breach of peace, law and order.

    “I therefore hold that the respondents failed to justify the suspension of the activities of the appellant based on the ground of breach of peace, law and order in Oyo State caused by the union. I allow this appeal, set aside the suspension on the operations of NURTW in Oyo State. I also set aside the judgment of the lower court,” Justice Amadi held.

    Justice Biobele Georgewill, concurring with the lead judgment, criticised the state government’s handling of the matter.

    He said while the state had the authority to maintain law and order, it must do so within the confines of the law.

    In his ruling, he held: “In the leading judgment, it has been demonstrated that the respondents did not prove the existence of any act of violence against the appellant by merely mouthing violence in its counter affidavit without setting forth the acts of the appellant and concrete evidence to show the acts and conduct that he categorised as violent.”

    He noted that “if the appellant’s activities were violent, that it is an illegal act, then such violent activities can be checked by the state government, so that the law and order will be restored and maintained by the relevant security agencies, including the police, but it cannot be resolved by resort to another form of illegality by the state government going outside the lawful channel to use its whims and caprices by suspending the activities of the appellant, since the state government does not have any such powers outside of laws of the land.”

  • Edo gives estate developers two weeks to register or face sanctions

    Edo gives estate developers two weeks to register or face sanctions

    The Edo State Government has warned that it will sanction any estate developer operating in the state who fails to register and obtain formal approval for their estate layout plans.

    According to the government, the registration exercise is part of its ambitious urban renewal drive under “Project Shine” and the 30-Year Benin City Master Plan.

    In a statement, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development, Arc. Kate Isokpunwu, said estate developers have a two-week deadline to comply or face strict enforcement actions.

    The directive, the statement added, follows a recent stakeholders’ engagement where the government stressed the need for compliance, sustainable development, and orderly urban growth.

    Developers were urged to visit the Ministry promptly to complete the necessary registration and approval processes to avoid sanctions.

    Read Also: Independence Blues: Nigeria at 65: A broken promise?

    It reads in parts, “All estate layouts must be duly documented and regularized with the Ministry to align with the state’s long-term spatial and environmental objectives,” the statement said.

    “From October 2025, the Ministry will begin a comprehensive enforcement operation targeting illegal developments, especially those encroaching on government-designated forest reserves and protected areas.

    The statement further added that “Unapproved estate layouts will be sealed off, and violators prosecuted under existing laws.

    “This measure is not punitive but corrective. It is designed to ensure that development in Edo State remains sustainable, orderly, and consistent with our collective vision for a modern, well-planned city.”

  • Oyo speaker advocates faith-driven leadership at YPF mega summit 2025

    Oyo speaker advocates faith-driven leadership at YPF mega summit 2025

    The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has made a case for faith-based leadership at the Young Professionals Forum (YPF) Mega Summit 2025, organised by the Deeper Christian Life Ministry.

    The summit, held in Ibadan, was themed “Leadership and Influence: How Christian Professionals Can Shape Public Policy – My Journey as a Christian Legislator.” 

    It brought together hundreds of young professionals, faith leaders, and policymakers from across Nigeria.

    In his keynote address, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin reflected on his personal and political journey from a childhood grounded in Christian values to his historic emergence as Nigeria’s youngest Speaker in 2019. 

    He highlighted how his faith has continually shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to public service, saying, “my political journey was not born out of ambition, but a desire to serve. Leadership is not about domination but about lifting others.”

    Quoting Mark 10:43–45, he emphasized that true leadership, as modeled by Christ, is rooted in service and humility.

    He challenged Christian professionals to be “salt and light” in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape by promoting policies built on compassion, justice, and integrity. 

    Referencing Proverbs 22:1, he said, “Credibility, not just charisma, earns influence in public life.”

    Read Also: FULL LIST: US H-1B visa approvals for Nigerians since 2018

    Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin urged young professionals to see their careers as platforms for ministry and nation-building. “Your profession is your pulpit” he declared, encouraging them to allow their values to guide their contributions to society.

    He also paid glowing tributes to Pastor (Dr.) Williams Kumuyi, General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, and the State Overseer of the Church, Pastor Ayo Afolabi for founding the Young Professionals Forum, as a non-governmental and interdenominational initiative dedicated to mentoring and empowering youth across Nigeria.

    “Pastor Kumuyi’s vision for the YPF is inspiring. We need more spiritual leaders who are committed not just to preaching, but to building capacity in young people,” the Speaker said.

    He called for a generational shift in leadership across the country, stressing that the future belongs to young Nigerians who lead with values and vision.

    “The transformation Nigeria needs will not come from one person or one political party. It will come from a generation of value-driven leaders young people who fear God, who pursue justice, and who are not afraid to be different.”

  • Southwest citizen-government engagement summit postponed to October 29-30

    Southwest citizen-government engagement summit postponed to October 29-30

    The Steering Committee of the Southwest Citizen-Government Engagement Summit has announced the postponement of the event originally slated for October 9-10, 2025. 

    The summit will now hold on October 29-30, 2025, at the International Conference Centre (The Dome), Akure, Ondo State.

    All invited participants are expected to arrive on October 28, 2025, ahead of the two-day programme themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future.” 

    The Chief Host of the summit remains Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State.

    Announcing the new dates, the Chairman of the Steering Committee, Dr. Akin Onigbinde (SAN), said the postponement was to ensure the summit provides a truly meaningful platform for engagement between citizens and government.

    “The additional time will enable us to conduct comprehensive consultations with all participating ministries, agencies, and stakeholders; ensure optimal logistical arrangements that facilitate substantive dialogue; and coordinate effectively with all six Southwest state governments and participating institutions,” Onigbinde explained.

    He apologised for any inconvenience the adjustment might cause, assuring stakeholders and the public of the committee’s commitment to delivering an impactful, inclusive, and productive summit.

    The summit, convened by Afenifere in partnership with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission, will feature six thematic sessions on Fiscal Reforms and National Planning, Economic Development and Job Creation, Social Services and Social Development, Infrastructure and Transportation, Human Capital Development, and Security and Governance.

    Participants will include Southwest governors, federal ministers and appointees of Southwest origin, federal legislators, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, private sector players, youth and student bodies, women groups, and other key stakeholders across the region.

    Afenifere, the foremost Yoruba socio-political organization, is known for its advocacy on regional interests and democratic governance, while DAWN Commission serves as the technocratic institution driving regional integration and development in the Southwest.

    The postponement was confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday, October 4, by the group’s Media Relations Officer, Segun Balogun.

  • Fayose celebrates Lere Olayinka on birthday

    Fayose celebrates Lere Olayinka on birthday

    …hails his loyalty and rise from humble beginnings

    Former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has showered encomiums on his long-time associate and political ally, Lere Olayinka, on his birthday.

    He described him as a “man of wisdom, loyalty, and relevance in a heartfelt birthday tribute.

    In a voice note made public in a WhatsApp group on Wednesday, Fayose praised Olayinka’s journey from modest beginnings in Okemesi to becoming a respected public figure and household name in Nigerian politics and media.

    “To a great man, young, diligent, submissive, and determined, whom God has raised from Okemesi. A man of stature and relevance. A man of wisdom who knows his onions,” Fayose said.

    The former governor, known for his outspoken political style, described Olayinka as a loyal aide and dependable defender who has consistently stood tall in the face of challenges.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    “From humble beginnings, you have expanded your coast, protected your name, and risen to become a respected figure, all to the glory of God,” he added. “There is no regret in working with you.”

    Fayose also highlighted Olayinka’s role as a shining representative of the Osoko Political Family, acknowledging his service, resilience, and faithfulness.

    “Your name has become a household name in Nigeria, and there is no going back,” he said. “This is only the beginning. The future is indeed bright.”

    He concluded the message with a personal and symbolic endorsement, referring to Olayinka as “my boy, my son, my follower, my brother, my defender,” and extended warm birthday wishes on behalf of the entire Osoko Political Family Worldwide.

    “Happy birthday and many happy returns,” Fayose said.

    Lere Olayinka currently serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. He has long been a prominent media figure and is a political strategist, both in Ekiti State and across Nigeria’s political landscape.

  • Osun NULGE rejects APC-reinstated LG executives’ plan to recall workers amid council crisis

    Osun NULGE rejects APC-reinstated LG executives’ plan to recall workers amid council crisis

    The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Osun State chapter, has accused the reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) local government executives of attempting to induce workers to resume duties despite ongoing council leadership disputes.

    NULGE President Nathaniel Ogungbagbe, speaking on Friday at the Ministry of Local Government, Abere, insisted that no worker would resume on Monday until all legal issues surrounding the control tussle between the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are resolved.

    The Nation recalls that following the reinstatement of the APC executives, the FG withheld allocations since February 2025, releasing them only in September to council accounts managed by the APC chairmen. This prompted a faction of workers to vow to resume duties.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    Ogungbagbe, however, alleged that the move is an APC strategy to destabilise their struggle and disrupt peace in the state. He added that the faction’s leader, Comrade Adekunle Adedayo, was disgruntled after losing a union presidential election in March.

    He boasted that “I can tell you for a fact that our members will not resume their duty post on Monday. Any worker who resumes, APC, induced them to do so.

    “Governor Ademola Adeleke is performing excellently well for all civil servants and pensioners in the State. Despite these, the bunch of integrates are hell-bent on destroying the peace.

    “We are appealing to all educative and well-informed esteemed members not to harken to the call to resume duty. We are not going to force anyone not to join them, but I am sure that our members won’t join the resumption.”

  • Coalition praises Tinubu’s reforms, Tunji-Ojo’s role in national transformation

    Coalition praises Tinubu’s reforms, Tunji-Ojo’s role in national transformation

    Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations has hailed President Bola Tinubu for rekindling hope in the Nigerian people through purposeful leadership and the appointment of competent ministers, with particular reference to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    The Coalition, in a statement by its leaders, Chisom Ochiaga and Obaseyi Ogunrinde, emphasised that the President’s Independence Day address resonated with Nigerians not only because of its frank assessment of the nation’s challenges but also because it showcased tangible progress already recorded in critical areas of governance.

    The group described the mention of Hon. Tunji-Ojo in the President’s speech as a “classical example of what Nigeria gains when competence, dedication, and vision are placed above politics in leadership appointments.”

    According to the coalition, Tinubu’s recognition of the Interior Minister’s stellar performance has further confirmed that the administration’s reformist agenda is on the right track.

    “The President’s acknowledgement of Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo’s achievements in the Interior Ministry is a reflection of how the government’s bold reforms are resolving the nation’s long-standing challenges. Nigerians now see how effective governance can transform institutions once regarded as stumbling blocks,” the coalition stated.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    The group cited sweeping reforms championed by the Ministry of Interior under Tunji-Ojo, including the digitization of passport application and processing systems, the drastic reduction in bureaucratic bottlenecks within immigration services, and a renewed efficiency in the handling of correctional facilities.

    These reforms, it noted, have restored public confidence in the ministry and demonstrated the tangible benefits of President Tinubu’s commitment to appointing the right people into leadership positions.

    The coalition further noted that Tunji-Ojo’s drive to sanitize the operations of agencies under his ministry, ensure transparency, and deploy technology in service delivery has endeared the Tinubu administration to even its staunchest critics.

    “The Interior Ministry has become a model of reform, efficiency, and innovation, thanks to the leadership of Hon. Tunji-Ojo.

    “This is why Nigerians from diverse backgrounds, including those once skeptical of the administration, are beginning to rally behind the President’s vision,” the coalition remarked.

    Reaffirming its stance, the Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations pledged unrelenting support for the progress of Nigeria under President Tinubu.

    “As far as the policies of this administration remain pro-people, we will continue to stand firmly behind President Tinubu and the reformist ministers like Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    “His example must be replicated across other sectors to deepen the dividends of democracy,” the statement concluded.

    The coalition’s endorsement reflects growing acknowledgment within civic spaces that Tinubu’s reforms, as exemplified by the Interior Ministry, are rekindling faith in governance and opening a new chapter of hope for Nigeria.

  • Olubadan: CCII, Mogajis, others honour Oba Ladoja at Jumat Thanksgiving

    Olubadan: CCII, Mogajis, others honour Oba Ladoja at Jumat Thanksgiving

    The coronation Jumat Thanksgiving service of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, drew dignitaries, including members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Mogajis, senators, and politicians.

    The event, held on Friday at the Central Mosque, Oja’ba, Ibadan, formed part of the weeklong activities marking the coronation of Oba Ladoja, who was presented with the Staff and Instrument of Office by Governor Seyi Makinde last week at Mapo Hall.

    In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abubakar Agbotomokekere, urged residents and indigenes to support the monarch for a successful reign, cautioning against distractions that could hinder the city’s progress.

    He praised Oba Ladoja as a respected leader whose pedigree and antecedents command recognition within and outside Ibadanland, stressing that leadership begins at the family level and requires accountability.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    Highlights of the event included special prayers for Olubadan’s reign and the presentation of a gift to him.

    Among the dignitaries present were CCII President General, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole; President of Ibadan Mogajis, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori; Senator Sharafadeen Ali; Senator Fatai Buhari; former Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin; ex-lawmaker, Soji Akanbi; former Osun SSG, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade; and ICPI Coordinator, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade.

  • Court extends order freezing of Osun LG funds till October 9

    Court extends order freezing of Osun LG funds till October 9

    An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has extended its Interim Injunction against the United Bank for Africa (UBA), sustaining the no-debit restriction placed on 30 bank accounts into which withheld Osun State local government allocations were lodged by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    Justice Ladiran Akintola, in his ruling on Friday, said the extension was necessary to ensure fair hearing for all parties in the suit No. 1/1149/2025: the Attorney-General of Osun State, the Osun State Local Government Service Commission, and United Bank for Africa Plc.

    While counsel to UBA Plc was absent, lawyers representing the court-sacked APC council chairmen, led by Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN, were present, having just filed an application for joinder.

    Counsel to the plaintiffs, Musibau Adetunmbi, SAN, however, told the court that he required time to review the two applications filed by the ex-chairmen’s counsel.

    READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

    He explained that the application for joinder and another one challenging the court’s territorial jurisdiction were filed on Thursday and Friday respectively.

    Adetunmbi, while citing points of law, insisted that the ex-APC council chairmen lacked the locus standi to challenge the court’s jurisdiction.

    According to him, the ex-LG chairmen remained strangers to the case since their application for joinder had not yet been decided upon by the court.

    On the need for extension of the interim order, Adetunmbi said: “I received the two applications yesterday (Thursday) and today (Friday). I will need time to study them as well as reply on points of law.”

    But counsel to the former APC local government chairmen and councillors faulted the description of his clients as strangers, arguing that they were directly affected by the court’s Interim Injunction of 26 September 2025.

    He contended that, under the law, his clients had the right to be joined in the suit.

    Gbadamosi, in the application filed on 2 October 2025, also challenged the territorial jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter.

    Citing relevant authorities, he argued: “The court has no power in respect of a case in which its jurisdiction is being challenged to extend the order of life span that had expired.”

    At the court sitting in Ibadan on Friday, further arguments were presented in the form of a further affidavit deposed to by a senior personnel of one of the 30 local government councils.

    In her deposition, Mrs. Aluko Rachael Abidemi, Head of Local Government Administration in Boluwaduro Local Government, revealed that certain individuals were making attempts to siphon council funds in defiance of a subsisting court order.

    She cited an undated letter addressed to UBA by two individuals—Mr. Adebayo Oyekanmi and Mr. Lasisi Gbadebo Oyebode—who claimed to be Chairman and Treasurer of Boluwaduro Local Government. In the letter, they instructed the bank to deduct 15 percent of the statutory allocation and pay it into the account of a private law firm with UBA.

    Mrs. Abidemi, however, informed the court that the said individuals had no legal authority to make such instructions. She stressed that Mr. Oyebode was neither a staff of Boluwaduro Local Government nor its Treasurer, as the position of “Treasurer” does not exist in Osun’s local government structure. 

    According to her, by the 2025 Guidelines for Local Government Administration in the state, only the Director of Finance and the Director of Administration & General Services are recognised as signatories to local government accounts. She also identified the current officers holding those positions and tendered exhibits to confirm their status.

    The claimants maintained that the matter of who the legitimate chairmen of the councils are remains sub judice before the Supreme Court in Suit No. SC/CV/773/2025, and warned that disbursing the funds under the present circumstances would undermine justice. 

    Speaking with reporters after the sitting, counsel to the Attorney-General of Osun State, Adetunmbi (SAN), disclosed that a related case on the funds is already before the Supreme Court and has been fixed for hearing on 7 October.

    On Friday’s ruling, he explained: “The crux of the matter is to safeguard the money in issue pending the Supreme Court’s determination on Tuesday, 7 October 2025.

    “Our contention is that even those who paid the money knew the matter was already before the court. They should have respected the Supreme Court by holding on to the money.

    “Let the Supreme Court speak, everybody will be happy, but for you to pay just like that is not acceptable.

    “As I earlier informed the court, there is a letter directing that 15% of the withheld funds from March to September — running into billions of naira — should be paid as legal fees to one individual.

    “In what manner? By what procedure? Without this preservation order, the rest of the money would have been gone by now.”

    Commenting on the newly filed applications, he added, “They just served us with two applications. One was filed today, the other yesterday. I need time to react. The court has extended the Interim Injunction for the preservation of the disputed funds.”

    On the joinder application, the Attorney-General maintained, “We are going to oppose the joinder because nothing concerns them with this case.”