The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • NASFAT: peaceful co-existence is prerequisite for meaningful progress

    NASFAT: peaceful co-existence is prerequisite for meaningful progress

    • Faith Ajiboye

    The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), Lagos Zone 1, has held its second yearly Special Joint Asalatu, bringing together members from 24 branches to pray for the nation

     A key highlight of the event was the launch of the NASFAT History Book, a fundraiser to support the society’s ongoing projects.

    During the event, Chairman of NASFAT Lagos Zone One, Alabi Mustapha, an engineer emphasised the dual role of prayer and proactive citizenship.

    “We have no other country except Nigeria. We have to support as much as possible to make sure the country becomes better for all of us,” he said.

    He stressed that while the government is doing its best, citizens must also support them through prayers and constructive actions.

    He identified peaceful coexistence as a prerequisite for any meaningful progress. “Without peace, nothing is achievable,” he said.

    Read Also: NASFAT hails Bashiru as Asiwaju Musulumi of Osun

    He detailed NASFAT’s efforts to boost the economy, citing the empowerment unit that trains members in entrepreneurship and provides them with the resources to become self-sufficient. “The society also holds quarterly conferences and workshops for artisans to improve their business management skills.”

    Mustapha shared an optimistic outlook on the nation’s economic future, pointing to recent increases in foreign reserves as a positive sign.

    He urged Nigerians to be patient and to focus on competence rather than religious affiliation when choosing leaders.

    “It’s about having people who have the capacity, knowledge to lead us,” he said.

    Vice Chairman of the Ikorodu Branch and Chairman of the Joint Asalatu, Alhaji Shokunbi Akanbi, highlighted the spiritual power of collective prayer, referencing a saying of the Holy Prophet that prayers offered in groups are more likely to be accepted.

    He noted that NASFAT is committed to fostering a prosperous Nigeria by combining faith-based guidance with tangible economic empowerment, proving that a strong community is built on both spiritual foundation and practical action.

    The Zonal Missioner, Muhammad Uthman Jaji, emphasized the importance of a balanced life, stating, “If you want to be successful in life economically, you must be prayerful.”

     To sustain your success, you must be prayerful.” He urged members to take both their economic and spiritual lives seriously, as the two are intertwined.

    Guest lecturer, Sheikh Jamiu Sanusi, reminded the congregation that true wealth is not measured by material possessions but by one’s faith and steadfastness in Islam.

    Sheikh Sanusi concluded his lecture with a prayer for the attendees, while Imam Jaji led the final prayers for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance for the nation.

  • Youths urged to embrace digital skill

    Youths urged to embrace digital skill

    Nigerian youths have been advised to expand their skill acquisition in digitisation and strive to take it far – for sustainable economic empowerment and self-reliance.

    Lagos District Amir of The Companion, an association of Muslim men in business and the professions, Alhaji Abdul Kabir Baruwa made the call at the formal closing of four-week coding training, organised by Alimoso zone.

    Represented by the District Public Affairs Secretary, Tajudeen Balogun, Baruwa noted that as the Information and Technology (ICT) has been advanced by the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the training participants received was key, timely and has everlasting relevance.

    While noting that it was important for individuals to embrace and acclamatise with all digitisation tools, Balogun asserted that skills and knowledge acquired in the ICT sector attract many opportunities and fortunes.

    He urged the participants to forge ahead with the training, at different levels, so as to broaden their knowledge and attain empowerment for prosperous future and economic development.

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    The District’s publicist tasked the participants to aspire for academic excellence and support it with digital skill acquisition.

    The Zonal Coordinator, Alhaji Kamor Ogunfowora, said the training was introductory, assuring that the exercise would continue with AI and web designing.

    While thanking the facilitator, Dr Sakirudeen Olawale Abidekun and others, Ogunfowora, who is the Senior Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun on Physical Planning and Urban Development, said the training would be sustained and made available subsequently to the participants “pro bono”.

    He hinted that planning is underway to partner with international NGO with specialisation on ICT and related fields for training and mentoring of the youths.

  • ‘Give women greater opportunities in leadership, politics’

    ‘Give women greater opportunities in leadership, politics’

    Policy expert and social analyst, Abiola Akinpelu, has called for more women participation in politics.

     He noted the low rate of wimen in political positions.

     “In the 10th National Assembly, only 45 women occupy legislative seats of 991 seats in the 36 Houses of Assembly.

    ”The Senate has four women senators of 109 members.

    ”The House of Representatives has 15 women of 360.

    ”Nigeria has never elected a woman governor.

    According to him, women politicians face sexism, misogyny, limited access to funding and resources, societal expectations, stereotypes, violence, intimidation, and others.

    ”These challenges discourage women from pursuing political careers, perpetuating the under-representation of women in politics,” Akinpelu said.

    Stressing the need for change, he identified ways to address the imbalance.

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    He said: “It’s essential to encourage women to participate in politics, provide support and resources for them, promote gender-sensitive policies and practice and challenge societal norms and stereotypes.”

    He underscored the need to empower woman leadership in Lagos State.

    Akinpelu added: “The parties should consider fronting women candidates for key positions.

    ”Lagos State, in particular, could benefit from a woman.

    ”Some credible women to be considered include Islamiat Oyefusi, Oluranti Adebule, Oyinkansola Abayomi, Abike Dabiri, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, and Fola Sherifat Jaji.

    ”Others are Lateefat Okunnu, Abiola Dosunmu, Adejoke Ponle, Alimot Pelewura, Adebisi Susan, Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas, Omotayo Oduntan and Josephine Oluseyi Williams.

    ‎”By supporting female candidates, Nigeria can take a significant step towards achieving gender balance in politics and promoting inclusive leadership.

    ‎”The underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics is a pressing issue that requires attention and action.

    ‎”By empowering women to take on leadership roles, Nigeria can harness the talents and perspectives of its entire population.

    ‎”Let’s make it happen – let’s make the world know that Nigeria is committed to gender balance and inclusive politics.”

    ‎The policy expert noted that Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has struggled to achieve gender parity in politics.

    ‎”Despite making up nearly half of the population, women remain significantly underrepresented in political positions,” he said.

    ‎He stressed the need for greater inclusivity and opportunities for women in leadership.

  • Ex-lawmaker: stop negative remarks on Nigeria, Tinubu

    Ex-lawmaker: stop negative remarks on Nigeria, Tinubu

    Former lawmaker in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, of All Progressives Congress (APC), has cautioned critics and opposition members against making unguarded remarks about Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu-led government.

    Oyintiloye, member of defunct APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), in a statement yesterday said comments against Nigeria and Tinubu were ‘unpatriotic acts’.

    He noted that persistent humiliation of the country by Nigerians abroad and those here, especially high-profile personalities, through unguided utterances, was painting the country in bad light.

    He said although the constitution provided for freedom of speech, “this must not be seen as opportunity to use uncultured words against the country and its leadership.”

    He advised that criticism of government policies and programmes should be done with civility and decorum when “calling attention of the leadership of the country to issues deserving their attention.”

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    ‘’Nigeria’s global image is suffering negative effects due to unguided and unsubstantiated allegations by critics and the opposition against Tinubu’s led administration.

    “No doubt we are going through challenges which the administration is addressing.

    “But making unguarded remarks about our country by Nigerians abroad is affecting the image of the country negatively, and this is not good.

    “Many living in the country are also guilty of this. No matter the challenges, our leaders must be accorded respect and dignity because they are our representatives. The way and manner we portray our country and its leadership is a reflection of how our nationality is being treated in the world.”

    He said: “Those behind such acts should remember Internet will never forget whatever remarks they make…’’

     At the appropriate time, they may be the victim of whatever negative remarks made against the country and her people.

    “We should imbibe the culture of Americans who will always say ‘God Bless America’ no matter the situation they find themselves. We must desist from pulling down our country and its leadership across the globe.

    “Disparaging our country and its leadership will do no one good, but with prayers and positive collective efforts, we will overcome.”

  • First Lady is special guest at college Kingsweek

    First Lady is special guest at college Kingsweek

    First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will be the special guest of honour at King’s College Old Boys’ Association (KCOBA) 116th Founders Day, Kingsweek 2025, in Lagos.

    With the theme: “The King’s College Legacy: Honouring the past, empowering the future,’’ the event holds from September 15 and 21, to celebrate the institution’s legacy and chart a vision for its future.

    Addressing reporters, President, Dr Leke Oshunnuyi, described the theme as apt.

    He noted that the highlight of the week is the 116th annual Founder’s Day Lecture/Annual Dinner, on Saturday, at Metropolitan Club, Lagos.

    “The lecture is a platform for thought leadership, reflection and inspiration. Senator Oluremi Tinubu has been invited to attend as special guest of honour, underscoring importance of this milestone in the life of the college and nation.’’

     He said the week begins September 16, with a virtual conference, where members in diaspora, with local participants, would discuss “Artificial Intelligence and the future of education in Nigeria’’.

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    He said the virtual event, to be moderated by an old student, Moses Nasamu, will feature panellists: Dr Azeez Sanusi, on “Reimaging teaching and learning: The role of AI in Nigeria classrooms”; Mr Zeze Peters, on “Bridging educational inequality through AI-driven tools and access”; and Prof Emmanuel Agu, on “Policy, ethics, and capacity building: Preparing Nigeria’s education sector for an AI-Powered future.”

    On Friday, a Jumat Service will hold at the college annex mosque, Victoria Island, Lagos. The service is an opportunity for Muslim alumni, students and friends to join in prayers for the institution’s growth. Also on Friday, is the KCOBA variety night of thrills at Turaka, Ebony Life Place, Victoria Island.

    He said on Saturday, the Inter-House Soccer competition and fiesta will take place at the main campus sport field. The celebrations close with a thanksgiving service on Sunday at Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina.

    Keynote address will be delivered by Prof Hakeem Belo-Osagie, professor at Harvard Business School, former president of KCOBA. He will reflect on the college’s role in shaping Nigeria’s leadership and the link between education, national development and philanthropy.

    A panel of speakers will follow, including: Ani Charles Bassey-Eyo, on “Historical significance of King’s College in shaping Nigeria’s leadership”; Adeniyi Odejobi, on “The role of alumni in sustaining excellence”; Sir Gbolahan Olayomi, on “Education reform and innovation for future readiness”; and Dr Olusoji Akinyele, on “The King’s College vision for the next century.”.

    The lecture will set the tone for conversations around alumni engagement and the sustainability of the school.

    Speaking on significance of Kingsweek 2025, the president said: “King’s College has been a pillar of excellence for over a century. The 116th anniversary is a reminder of our duty as Old Boys to safeguard its legacy, invest in its future and ensure it continues to produce leaders for Nigeria and beyond. We are honoured by the participation of the First Lady and invite Old Boys, friends and well-wishers to join us in making the Kingsweek  memorable.’’

    Present at the briefing include Simsi Topah-Mayaki (Sports Secretary); Tony Epelle (Ex Officio Member); Moses Nasamu (Assistant General Secretary); Dr. Leke Oshunnuyi (President, King’s College Old Boys’ Association); Wole Eperokun (Social Secretary); Dr. Chukwuemeka Azinge (CEO, KCOBA Secretariat); Ehizogie Iyeomoan (Administrative Officer, KCOBA Secretariat).

  • PWDs ‘should harness talents’ for national development

    PWDs ‘should harness talents’ for national development

    Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) have been urged to focus on their abilities rather than their challenges to contribute to the nation’s development.

    President of Muslim Association of Visually Impaired of Nigeria (MAVIN), Alhaji Abdul Wasi’ Salaudeen, said this while delivering an address at Ability Expo and Talent Hunt Exhibition, organised by Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) in Lagos.

    Speaking on “Disability is Not an Inability”, Salaudeen, represented by Miss Habeebah Abdul-Waheed, stressed that talent alone is not enough for success in life.

    He noted many gifted individuals fail to reach their potential due to lack of exposure, support, and opportunities.

     “Every human being is created for a purpose. Each of us is born with a gift, a skill, or a talen…”he said.

    He urged governments to empower PWDs and foster an inclusive society. Salaudeen lauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his efforts to improve their welfare

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    The MAVIN president appealed to Nigerians to support initiatives promoting affordable education, mentorship, and empowerment for PWDs, thereby enabling them add value and creativity to society.

    Head of Administration at LASODA, Mrs. Sonubi Omolade, said the exhibition was to shift public perception from disability to ability.

    “This initiative is part of Lagos State’s inclusive policies, which ensure persons with disabilities are fully integrated into society,” she explained.

    Director of Social Development and Integration, Kilani Akeem, said the exhibition is evidence of the state’s commitment to inclusion.

    The event featured displays of crafts, artworks, branded bags, soaps, and other products created by PWDs, as well as dance competitions.

  • Sanusi lauds British for tolerance, diversity at mosque fund raiser

    Sanusi lauds British for tolerance, diversity at mosque fund raiser

    Emir of Kano, Dr. Lamido Sanusi II, has lauded the British for their tolerance, maturity, and diversity in allowing people of all faith to live in peace and harmony.

    Dr. Sanusi spoke in London at the fundraising for Old Kent Road Mosque and Islamic Cultural Centre, at East London Mosque, by Muslim Association of Nigeria in Unuted Kingdom, with the theme: “The Mosque as a Beacon of Light: Promoting Positive Integration for a Brighter Future.”

    The emir, who chaired the event, lauded the association for its vision of hope for Muslim Ummah and humanity.

    He said the British have shown that Islam is a religion of peace creating an environment for diversity, tolerance, love, respect, and harmonious co-existence.

    Dr. Sanusi stressed: “We appreciate and congratulate the British for their tolerance. This project stands as a symbol of hope for Muslim Ummah and humanity in the heart of London, inspiring generations.”

    The emir noted that mosques are not only for prayers but also for fostering social values, knowledge, and morals that benefit society where people are reminded of Allah’s words of peace, love, and harmony.

    Read Also: Kano Emirate congratulates Emir Sanusi II on PhD award

    Sanusi noted that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) welcomed Christian brothers and sisters into the mosque. He described the mosque as a place of tolerance and unity where values of Muslims are preserved.

    Special Guest of Honour, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, said: “I greet our Muslim brothers and sisters for this Old Kent Road Mosque project. I must thank the organisers for putting this together.”

    Hamzat stressed that in the last three decades, Old Kent Road Mosque has become not just a place of worship for Nigerians and others in London, but also a beacon of hope, unity, and social interaction.

    He described the event as marking 30 years of an institution embodying the true spirit of Islam, fostering community cohesion, nurturing faith, and serving humanity. He noted that the mosque’s role extends beyond prayers to include counselling, engagement, and educational programmes.

    He noted that rebuilding and expanding the mosque into a six-storey facility creates more space for spiritual growth and development..

    Guest Speaker, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, registrar of JAMB, represented by Dr. Hassan Oloyede, hailed the body for the vision to rebuild the mosque and cultural centre.

    He noted that the mosque is not merely a building of brick and mortar but a symbol of faith, identity and community.

    He said the mosque serves as centre for education and knowledge. In the contemporary era, he said, its educational role is more critical, and mosques must reclaim this through structural educational programmes for all ages.

    He recommended Quranic and Arabic classes for children, study circles (Halaqas) for youth and adults on Islamic jurisprudence, theology and history, and pre-marital and family counseling workshops. By doing so, he said, the mosque would remain the primary source of authentic religious knowledge, protecting the community from ignorance and misinformation.

    Earlier, in his welcome address, the chief host and President of the Muslim Association of Nigeria UK (MAN UK), Alhaji Abdul Jeleel Oladejo, welcomed everyone to the historic gathering.

    Alhaji Oladejo noted that the mosque is not just a structure but a legacy of transformation rebuilding a long-standing center into a modern six-storey multipurpose facility that will serve the community in new and greater ways.

    He emphasized that the Old Kent Road Mosque project is about building a future where children can thrive, youths can find purpose, elders feel honored, and the entire community is spiritually and socially uplifted for the sake of Almighty Allah, with benefits in this life and the hereafter.

    Other notable speakers at the gathering included Prof. Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad, Founder and Dean of the Cambridge Muslim College; Councilor Yasmine Dar, former Lord Mayor of Manchester City Council; Dr. Muhammad Wajid Akhter, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB); Dr. Taofeeq Abdul Salam; Shaykh Yusuf Kamara; and Alhaja Ramatalahi Faruq Onikijipa, who all lent their voices in support of this beacon of hope in the cause of Almighty Allah to see the completion of the Mosque before 2026 Ramadan.

  • Ogun gets approval to establish Court of Appeal, says Abiodun

    Ogun gets approval to establish Court of Appeal, says Abiodun

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has revealed that the Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Court of Appeal in Abeokuta, the capital.

    Prince Abiodun made the revelation at a special church thanksgiving to mark the 2025/2026 legal year, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta.

    He said the establishment of the appellate court would bring justice closer, ensure quick dispensation and help take the load off the Ibadan Division.

    He said: “We have finally received the formal approval for the establishment of the Ogun State division of the Federal Court of Appeal in Abeokuta.

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    “This is indeed a landmark achievement of an initiative proudly and aggressively championed by our administration to bring justice closer to our people and to ease the heavy caseload currently on the Ibadan division.

    “As a government, we recognise that justice is the foundation of every prosperous society, and we appreciate the fact that Ogun State judiciary has not only maintained its independence, but has also taken commendable strides towards improving access to justice, reducing case backlogs and embracing reforms.”

    The governor said justice could not thrive without integrity, impartiality and courage, admonishing the judicial officers to renew their dedication to a system where the scales of justice remained balanced, the most vulnerable voices heard, and where it provided an opportunity for every man, woman and child to be protected by the law.

    Acknowledging that a strong, independent and upright judiciary provides a pathway to good governance, economic development and social stability, Governor Abiodun said as a responsive and responsible administration, it appreciated the place of the judiciary in entrenching the ideals and practices of democracy.

    “Our administration will continue to provide the necessary support and resources to enhance judicial efficiency and uphold the integrity of the legal system in our dear state.

    “We will continue to prioritise the welfare and accommodation of judicial officers by making adequate housing arrangements and providing other essential support for our judges and other judicial workers, who may be posted to serve in Ogun State division of the Court of Appeal,” he said.

    He lauded the state Chief Judge for repositioning the judiciary through impactful reforms and the judicial officers for maintaining the state’s position as the beacon of the legal profession in the country.

    In a sermon, the Bishop of Ijebuland South/West Diocese, the Rt. Rev’d Babatunde Ogunbanwo, described the judiciary as the most powerful arm of government that gives or takes life, dethrones or enthrones kings, as well as sacks elected officers or brings those who lost elections to power.

    He urged judges to always act justly by being fair to all manners of people, irrespective of their social or economic status, noting that society will only thrive when justice reigns.

    The clergyman reminded judicial officers about the place of mercy while dispensing justice, saying it is imperative to be firm with the law but to have a heart of compassion, as justice without mercy could be cruel.

    While calling on the judiciary to be bold and ready to confront the negativities of the system, Bishop Ogunbanwo urged them to make fairness their watchword and allow their conscience to speak louder, knowing that they will give an account of their stewardship to God, the ultimate Judge.

    The Chief Judge of the state, Hon. Justice Mosumola Dipeolu, read the only Bible passage taken from Colossians 3:8-17.

  • Why Carter Bridge must give way, by Federal Controller of Works

    Why Carter Bridge must give way, by Federal Controller of Works

    Federal Controller of Works, Lagos State, Kehinde Olukorode, has given an assessment of Carter Bridge, declaring that the historic structure has outlived its usefulness and can no longer be relied upon for safe transportation.

    Speaking on a television programme, Olukorode, an engineer, said the bridge, one of the three major links between Lagos Island and Mainland, had reached the end of its serviceable life.

    “This bridge is one of the oldest in Lagos. It was built before the independence of Nigeria and for many years, there was no intentional programme of maintenance. The honourable minister has been very clear. Carter Bridge is irredeemable. It has now attained its ultimate serviceability state,” she said.

    She said while visible repairs were being carried out above the water line, the real danger lied beneath.

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    “The government awarded a maintenance contract last year to address what can be seen on the surface. You can see some of the patches already done. But when we went under, we discovered serious structural issues. The honourable minister said it is like a person without legs and you are busy patching the hips. That is the reality with Carter Bridge,” she explained.

    According to her, years of neglect, the activities of illegal dredgers and miners, and the reckless parking of heavy-duty trucks on the bridge have worsened its condition.

    “Bridges are not designed to carry static loads. They are designed for dynamic loads, which means moving traffic. When you turn a bridge into a truck park, you weaken it. This is part of the challenges we are facing today,” she added.

    On the cost of rehabilitation, Olukorode recalled the minister’s position. “The honourable minister has said rehabilitation will cost about three billion naira. If you compare that to the cost of building a new bridge, there is very little difference. This is why government is carefully considering the option of building a new one,” she said.

    She revealed that two independent marine engineers had already submitted reports confirming the poor state of the bridge, while a third consultant had been engaged to provide further assessment.

    “The honourable minister personally went on the water to see things for himself. He spent hours there, but the tide was too high. He promised to return. The reports before us show clearly that this bridge needs urgent attention,” she said.

    Carter Bridge, along with Eko and Third Mainland bridges, has for decades been central to traffic management in Lagos.

    Built in the colonial period, it was the first bridge to connect the Mainland to the Island, making it a vital artery for trade, commuting and the city’s growth.

    Olukorode assured residents that government would not allow Lagos to be cut off.

    “When a new bridge comes, it does not have to follow the same alignment as Carter Bridge. The old structure can still be in use, but at reduced capacity, just as we saw with the Second Niger Bridge. Government is proactive and realistic. The goal is to guarantee safety and also preserve the smooth flow of movement in Lagos,” she said.

    With the bridge now weakened by age and overuse, Lagosians are awaiting Federal Government’s final decision on whether Carter Bridge will be replaced or permanently decommissioned.

  • APC, Oyo Assembly bicker over alleged plot to victimise lawmaker

    APC, Oyo Assembly bicker over alleged plot to victimise lawmaker

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State yesterday engaged the House of Assembly in a war of words over an alleged plan to victimise its (APC’s) lawmaker, Ibrahim Shittu, representing Saki West State Constituency.

    APC in a statement by its spokesman, Olawale Sadare, saluted the people of Saki town, who, it said, demonstrated rare courage by speaking against an alleged fraudulent loan and the condemnation of Shittu by the leadership of the state legislative arm and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The statement said: “We have uncovered a number of plans by some individuals who are close to Governor Seyi Makinde to get back at a member of the State Assembly on an assumption that he blew the whistle over the latest N300billion loan and alerted the public, but the truth of the matter is that the said lawmaker only responded to an inquiry made by his party (APC). It was indeed the leadership of his party who asked about his involvement in the controversial approval given by the legislative arm.

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    “Now that Governor Makinde’s men have found an enemy in the three consistent APC members in the House, they are doing everything possible to frustrate them. Part of the plans is to mobilise thugs to the entrance of the assembly complex on Tuesday (today) with a view to unleashing them on the APC lawmakers, especially Shittu, who has been marked for physical assault and public harassment.

    “Also, plans have been concluded by the leadership of the House to accuse Shittu of breaching some rules upon which he would be made to face a kangaroo panel and handed an indefinite suspension from the assembly complex. These satanic plans and many more are being sponsored by some unscrupulous elements around the governor, who profit from the sharp practices which the current administration has perpetrated since 2019.

    “It is on this note that we call on personalities within and outside the state to prevail on Governor Makinde to halt every plan being put in place by his agents, who are desperate to shut the mouth of the opposition in the state.’’

    Responding to the allegation, the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Media, Public Affairs and ICT, Waheed Akintayo, described the allegations as false and mischievous.

    He said the assembly found it imperative to respond to allegations, not merely to counter the APC’s attempt to blackmail and arm-twist the legislative arm through its defective pre-emptive tactics, but because it owed the people of the state the truth.

    “It is our duty to provide accurate context and facts, and to set the record straight.

    “As a responsible legislative institution with a consistent track record of peaceful and orderly conduct since 2019, we find it both laughable and regrettable that Oyo APC will descend to such depths of desperation. It is characteristic of their political playbook, one that has become commonplace in APC-controlled states to fabricate claims of thuggery and intimidation.

    “Let it be categorically stated that there is no plot, real or imagined, to victimise  Shittu or any other lawmaker. Oyo State House of Assembly remains a bastion of democracy, where all members, regardless of party affiliation, are treated with respect, fairness and afforded the freedom to express their views.’’