The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • SWAGA denies calling for Edun’s resignation

    SWAGA denies calling for Edun’s resignation

    ‘We endorse Tinubu’s economic reforms’

    The Southwest Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) has denied calling for the resignation of the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun.

    The group said in a statement by its National Secretary, Bosun Oladele, that those asking the minister to resign are mischievous and devilish opposition elements shopping for credible platform to use in attacking him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said they are making a futile attempt to rubbish the giant strides of the President and his economic and finance team.

    Oladele said the administration has stabilized the economy in record time, despite odious national challenges. 

    He said, “The statement by an unknown and faceless Otunba Adedayo Adewole who claimed to be President of SWAGA circulating on social media is a poorly executed attempt to paint SWAGA black and portray the group as engaging in destructive criticism of a government, which SWAGA helped to install since 2020 while naysayers were clueless and busy sleeping.  

    “Let is be on record that SWAGA has no president in its organization’s structure and we are not ready to start appointing a “president” to lead our group. 

    READ ALSO: TUC threatens nationwide strike over 5% petroleum tax

    “There is only one SWAGA and it is headed by Sen. Dayo Adeyeye, the current Chairman of Governing Board of Nigerian Ports Authority. We challenge the Otunba Adewole and his own group to be bold enough to identify themselves and come out in public if they belong to SWAGA at all.”

    Oladele added, “We, as a group, are in full support of the reforms that President Tinubu has introduced in our taxation, economy, finance and fiscal policies and we stand proud to say that these were the qualities we identified in his leadership and started preaching to Nigerians and we remain proud that we were right.

    “It is only a fool that will not recognize that our Naira is now stable, the percentage of revenue in debt servicing has reduced to 50% from 90%, foreign reserve has climbed up to $41 Billion, the revenue target in 2025 budget has been met in August, diplomacy and foreign relations policy of Nigeria is redirected already and yielding investment inflows. 

    “We, in SWAGA are convinced that Nigeria, its finances and economy are in safe hands and we have been emboldened to start the Second round of our mobilization for Mr. President in SWAGA 2.0.

    “We encourage the President to lead his team and put Nigeria on the path of growth and development in line with his renewed hope agenda”.

  • N300bn loan: Oyo ex-lawmakers call for protection of whistle-blower

    N300bn loan: Oyo ex-lawmakers call for protection of whistle-blower

    The Forum of former lawmakers in Oyo State, under the aegis of Oyo State Progressives ex-parliamentarians, has called on the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies to protect Hon. Ibraheem Shittu, the lawmaker representing Saki West constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly.

    The forum said the call became necessary following threats allegedly directed at Shittu by disgruntled politicians angered by his revelation that the Assembly approved a ₦300 billion loan for Governor Seyi Makinde.

    Similarly, the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) staged a peaceful protest, condemning what it described as the victimisation of Shittu.

    Speaking after an emergency meeting in Ibadan, Chairman of the forum, Hon. Ibrahim Bolomope, said they were compelled to intervene because of the implications of the loan on the people of Oyo State and the safety of their colleague.

    The forum further alleged that despite increased federal allocations under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Governor Makinde has continued to rely heavily on loans since 2019, with little impact on infrastructure or the welfare of citizens.

    Bolomope said, “We members of Oyo State Progressives ex-Parliamentarians, consisting of former Honourable members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, have met and deliberated upon the revelation made by Hon. Shittu Ibrahim from Saki West State constituency.

    “We looked into the fact of the matter, its merit and demerit, and we conclude that we have to applaud Hon. Shittu for representing the state very well, not just his own constituency.

    “As former lawmakers, we know that the House of Assembly could approve loans for the executive, but when they are doing that, they must follow the rules of the game.

    “In this instance, the House cannot sit and approve a loan for the Governor without having a two-thirds majority of members of the House at the sitting for fiscal matters, or in some instances, at least they must have a simple majority of the members of the House.

    “From the available records, this is not the first loan that the House has approved for the Seyi Makinde-led government. The Oyo State government has taken various loans, which include 100 billion naira in 2020, in 2021-2022 additional 50 Billion Loan, in 2023, 150 billion naira in a recent report of plan for another humongous 300 billion naira loan.

    “If we take the increase in the allocations accrued to the State Governments into consideration, we will discover that it is not right for the Oyo State government under Engr. Seyi Makinde is to take a loan again.

    “Similarly, Governor Seyi Makinde’s colleague Governors like Hope Uzodinma has confirmed that has confirmed that with the rate of the allocation his state is receiving every month, he has been able to clear the backlog of debts inherited from the previous administrations and was able to increase the minimum wage of workers in his state to 104,000 naira.

    “Now, our concern and from our experiences as former lawmakers, when somebody comes out to reveal the truth, especially in our environment where truth is difficult to get by, anybody who says the truth is prone to danger.

    “This is the reason why we call on the Inspector General of Police and other sister security agencies in the country to provide adequate security for our own brother and colleague, Hon. Ibrahim Shittu, and others who share a similar view with him in the assembly.

    But the APC protest, which started in the early hours of Monday at the APC secretariat located in the Oke Ado area of Ibadan, had in attendance the chairman of the party, Alhaji Olayide Abas, and other members of the party.

    Read Also: Oyo ex-lawmakers seek Police protection for Assembly member over N300b loan saga

    APC noted that the lawmaker has been receiving threat messages as a result of the alarm he raised.

    The party noted that it organised the rally to ensure that nothing happens to the lawmaker.

    Oyo APC chairman, Alhaji Olayide Abas, while addressing journalists, noted that the protest was organised to show love to the lawmaker and ensure that he is protected

    He said the party organised the rally to show that it is solidly behind the lawmaker.

    Abas said, “We are here to show our support to him for taking a bold step to stand against the loan. We are behind him.

    “We are here to tell the governor that he should not send Oyo State to a perpetual loan collector. We are not satisfied with what is happening. What has the governor done with the previous loans?

    “I have the protest letter here. He should not be victimised. The process to take over Oyo State has started.”

  • Adeleke settles rift between deputy, PDP leaders 

    Adeleke settles rift between deputy, PDP leaders 

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has resolved the feud between his deputy, Kola Adewusi and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The leaders had passed a vote of no confidence in him for alleged anti-party activities.

    The Nation recalls that PDP leaders and members of the party from Ife Federal Constituency, led by the Financial Secretary, Prince Adesoji Adegoke, ex-Deputy Speaker, Ropo Oyewole, two commissioners, Dipo Eluwole, Biyi Odunlade and 35 others, reached the agreement after their meeting last Monday.

    A statement by the governor’s spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, confirmed that Adeleke had resolved the differences, urging stakeholders to beware of agents of division engineered by the opposition.

    Read Also: FG approves $300 as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold

    The statement said: “At a high powered reconciliation meeting attended by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Deputy Senate Minority Leader Lere Oyewumi, state Chairman of the party, Sunday Bisi; Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Kazeem Akinleye; Chairman of the Commissioners’ Forum, Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa and other party stalwarts, the family feud was declared resolved, with a resolution to forget and forgive for victory next year.’’

    Governor Adeleke, rounding off the meeting, described the recent disagreement as a product of communication gap and deliberate efforts by some external forces to sow seeds of discord within the party.

    He lauded the leaders for their openness and brotherhood.

    “Throughout this meeting today, I see Ile Ife PDP as very united. I listen to all the leaders here and I see clearly a communication gap among the leaders. There is also a strong sign of an outsider plot to divide Ife PDP.

    “Now that we have seen the root of the matter, I urge us to get back to work. Our administration has done so much for Ife land and we are still going to do more.

    “Ile Ife is a PDP territory. Go back and sustain the tempo. I commend the elders and leaders, the senatorial leader, the local party chairmen, the elected party chairmen, party chiefs and operatives. Go back and continue working for victory for the party,” the governor told the party chiefs.

    The Chairman, Bisi, described the incident leading to a vote of no confidence as a family affair, saying “all parties have demonstrated true love for the party.

    “We are glad that all issues have been ironed out. It is the resolution of this meeting that all statutory meetings for party mobilisation should reconvene and all party members and leaders should frown at any act capable of misinterpretation,” the party chairman told the meeting.

  • ‘Hosting IATF shows Lagos’ strength as economic hub’

    ‘Hosting IATF shows Lagos’ strength as economic hub’

    Lagos State will host the 2027 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) – the continent’s premier trade and investment event.

    The nomination was done by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with African Union and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reacting to the nomination in Algiers, Algeria, at the weekend, said the choice of Lagos underscored Nigeria’s pivotal role in Africa’s economic integration and the state’s status as a major commercial and financial hub.

    He said: “We are excited about the choice of Lagos for the 2027 edition of this important fair. But we are not surprised because it reflects our resilience, strength and commitment to the Greater Lagos journey as illustrated by our T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda. We are striving towards making Lagos a global financial hub and this will boost our efforts.

    “We have just successfully hosted GITEX, the global tech expo and, in a few days, we will be hosting the spectacular E1 electric boat race, the first in Africa, which will put us in the company of leading cities such as Monaco, Jeddah and others. We keep making history. It is the Spirit of Lagos at work.”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu also described the nomination as a vivid acknowledgment of the state’s commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which has impacted Nigeria’s economy positively.

    “It is a lot of work. I assure all would-be participants that we will have a great outing here in Africa’s most populous city, the continent’s second largest city economy. Lagos is indeed proud of this honour. On behalf of the government and the great people of Lagos, I thank the organisers for bestowing this honour on us,” he said.

    Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Bada-Ambrose, noted that the IATF, held every two years, was to promote intra-African trade and accelerate the implementation of the AfCFTA. She described the nomination as a proud moment for Lagos and for Nigeria.

    “The opportunity is a strategic milestone for Nigeria and West Africa in boosting continental trade integration.

    “Hosting the IATF 2027 positions us at the forefront of Africa’s trade future, and reaffirms our commitment to fostering regional collaboration, investment and innovation.

    Read Also: FG pledges to strengthen trade integration, expand industrial capacity

    It is particularly in line with the Lagos State Development Plan 2052 being implemented by the Governor Sanwo-Olu administration. We are ready to welcome Africa and the world to our vibrant city.

    “With a population of over 23 million, strategic coastal access, and a diverse, entrepreneurial economy, Lagos offers the ideal setting for trade, dialogue and business partnerships that will shape the future of Africa. The fair is expected to attract over 1,600 exhibitors, 35,000 visitors, and generate billions of dollars in trade and investment deals.”

    The commissioner listed key highlights of Lagos’ nomination to include strategic economic position – Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, with Lagos as its economic nerve centre; gateway to West Africa – the city offers unmatched access to West African markets, with a rapidly modernising infrastructure and international connectivity; and commitment to AfCFTA – hosting the IATF 2027 will accelerate Nigeria’s efforts in deepening intra-African trade and positioning local industries for continental competitiveness.

    Mrs. Bada-Ambrose also affirmed that the choice of Lagos reflected Africa’s confidence in Nigeria’s leadership and Lagos State’s readiness to deliver an impactful event that would leave a legacy beyond 2027.

    “Lagos State Government, in partnership with the Federal Government, Afreximbank, the African Union (AU), and the AfCFTA Secretariat, will begin preparations to deliver a world-class trade fair, with infrastructure development, logistics, security and hospitality among top priorities.

    “As Africa continues to build towards an integrated, borderless trade environment, IATF 2027 in Lagos will serve as a defining platform to unlock new markets, strengthen business ties, and drive sustainable growth across the continent,” she added.

    Mrs. Bada-Ambrose is leading the first delegation of 20 of the 253 SMEs trained under the Lagos State Export Readiness Programme (LASERP), approved by Governor Sanwo-Olu, to this year’s edition of IATF in Algiers.

  • Bishop Okonkwo a national treasure, says Abiodun

    Bishop Okonkwo a national treasure, says Abiodun

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has described the Founder and Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo, as a national treasure worthy of celebration, ‘’because his life has been a blessing far beyond the pulpit.’’

    Prince Abiodun spoke at the thanksgiving service for the 80th birthday celebration of Bishop Okonkwo, held at the TREM national headquarters in Gbagada, Lagos.

    Governor Abiodun, represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, said: ‘’The celebration of this unique milestone in the life of the man of God is a demonstration of the respect that is not only accorded to spiritual fathers in the state, but also to an elder statesman who embodies outstanding personality, courage and impeccable character.’’

    He added: ‘’The celebrant is an icon, a father in faith, a bridge builder and a true servant of God, with proof of a life lived purposefully and faithfully.

    Read Also: FG approves $300 as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold

    “Today, we celebrate his age and the remarkable legacy he has built. Bishop Okonkwo’s contributions to faith and community development echo across generations. Through The Redeemed Evangelical Mission, he has built more than churches; he has built people, raised leaders and fostered hope across generations. His voice has consistently championed integrity, unity and righteousness in a nation in need of such a moral compass.”

    Abiodun said the programmes under the leadership of Bishop Okonkwo had uplifted the underserved, offered hope to the hopeless and provided opportunities for countless individuals to realise their potential.

    He added that his commitment to the spiritual and physical well-being of the communities was a testament to his character and love for humanity.

    He promised continuous support, recognition and identification with notable philanthropists for their contributions to the continued growth and development of humanity and the successful implementation of the “Building Our Future Together” agenda of his administration.

  • Court restrains SSANU from organising UNILAG election 

    Court restrains SSANU from organising UNILAG election 

    A Lagos High Court has restrained Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), management of University of Lagos, Akoka and others over the leadership dispute in the school’s chapter.

    The presiding judge, Justice Ismaila Ijelu, gave the order in a suit between Comrade Gbenga Adenaiya and six others who are the plaintiffs and Comrade Yusuf Rasaq, University of Lagos and six others who are the defenders last Friday.

    The suit arose out of the dispute that erupted between the camps jostling for the leadership of the University of Lagos chapter of the union.

    Read Also: FG pledges to strengthen trade integration, expand industrial capacity

    The order came after the court considered the motions ex-parte, including the affidavits and exhibits in support of the motion as well as oral arguments of the claimants’/applicants’ counsel, human rights lawyer, Chief Ajose Abejoye alongside Oluwaseun Ikumelo, Esq.

    Appraising the submissions of the counsel to the plaintiffs, the court granted the hearing of the motion to be heard during vacation and thereafter ordered that “parties must maintain the status quo and must not do anything or take any step to undermine the authority of the court in one way or the other.”

    In giving the order, the court ordered that further action on the proposed election be put on hold pending the outcome of the suit.

    Justice Ijelu gave the order after the plaintiff asked the court to maintain status quo ante bellum and that “parties (in the suit) must not do any act or take any step to foist a fait accompli on the court or prejudice the decision of the court or undermine its authority in any way as the matter is before the court.

    The case was adjourned till October 24 for hearing of the motion on notice.

  • Blackout in parts of Benin enters two weeks

    Blackout in parts of Benin enters two weeks

    Blackout in parts of Benin City, Edo State capital, has entered the second week.

    Streetlights, government buildings, Edo NUJ secretariat and other subscribers to Ossiomo Power have been in darkness since September 1.

    The blackout was occasioned by the shutdown of Ossiomo Power plant in Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government, due to ownership tussle between Ossiomo Power and its Chinese partners, Jiangsu Communication Clean Energy Technology (CCETC).

    Ossiomo Power Plant is a 95MW power firm that is gas-fired and was completed in 2020.

    Read Also: FG approves $300 as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold

    The ownership tussle began when CCETC attempted to take over ownership of the firm.

    Director General of Edo State Electrification Agency, Omozokpea Egbadon, said the state government had no knowledge or involvement in the decision to shut down Ossiomo Power Plant.

    He said plans were on for the state government to switch back to Benin Electricity Distribution PLC (BEDC).

    But management of Ossiomo Power said CCETC were not co-owners of the power firm, but its contractor engaged to execute a contract in 2018 for the supply and installation of engines for the Independent Power Project (IPP1).

    It said the contract does not transfer or confer ownership of any facility on the Chinese firm.

    Deputy General Manager, Francis Ekwe, an engineer, insisted that Ossiomo Power remained sole owner of the power generating plant, the transmission network, and associated gas infrastructure tied to the project at Ologbo, Edo State.

    Ekwe said Ossiomo Power held exclusive rights to the gas infrastructure and power facilities since 2008 and backed by statutory licences as well as approvals for power generation and transmission within Edo State.

    He noted that recent moves by CCETC to assert ownership might be aimed at influencing state authorities and creating uncertainty around the operations of Ossiomo Power.

    Ekwe warned that any attempt to sideline an indigenous operator in favour of a foreign contractor could undermine Nigeria’s local content policy and pose risks to energy security in Edo State.

    Officials of CCETC could not be reached for comments at press time.

  • Governor Aiyedatiwa seeks united front against terrorism, banditry

    Governor Aiyedatiwa seeks united front against terrorism, banditry

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminals threatening the peace and unity of the country.

    Speaking at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Arogundade, the governor said the country had the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging military’s efforts at ensuring national stability.

    Recounting the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed, Aiyedatiwa noted that survivors of the violent attack still bore the scars.

    Read Also: FG pledges to strengthen trade integration, expand industrial capacity

    He described the tragedy as a major blow to families of the victims and to the state.

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor noted that the memories of the attack would linger.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing justice, while making security a top priority.

    “As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror’s might and other forms of criminalities. In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts and ensure a safer state,” Aiyedatiwa said.

    He highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, disclosing that 75 high-grade Hilux vehicles equipped with modern gadgets were recently procured, alongside monthly logistic support for operatives.

    He said the measures had earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    The governor lauded Bishop Arogundade as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice and human dignity, commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, health care and social development.

    The cleric hailed the state government for returning missionary schools to the church, promising continued delivery of quality education anchored on strong moral values.

    Reflecting on his 35 years of priesthood and 15 years as bishop, he urged newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in devotion to God and service to humanity.

  • Ladoja urges Yoruba monarchs on unity

    Ladoja urges Yoruba monarchs on unity

    The Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on traditional rulers in Yorubaland to embrace peaceful coexistence in the interest of the Yoruba race.

    He urged them to also ensure unity, promote and preserve the Yoruba culture and tradition.

    He spoke while hosting the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesa Kingdom, Oba Michael Ajayi, who paid him a congratulatory visit at his private residence, Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan at the weekend.

    Read Also: FG approves $300 as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold

    Welcoming the visitor and his entourage, Oba Ladoja expressed gratitude to him and the people of Erinmo Ijesa for the gesture and love.

    The Elerinmo of Erinmo said the emergence of Oba Ladoja as the Olubadan-designate was a testimony of divine providence, wisdom and the collective trust of the great people of Ibadanland.

  • Stakeholders seek incentives for French learning 

    Stakeholders seek incentives for French learning 

    Stakeholders have advocated incentives for French learning in Nigeria, to unlock more socio-economic opportunities across the country.

    They include the Director, Alliance Franciase, Ibadan, Mrs Olaide Turner-Moyet, Alliance Franciase French Facilitator and Assistant Lecturer at the Department of European Studies, University of Ibadan, Mr. Shadrack Afolabi Bamidele, and a French learner at the centre, Blessing Ojo, among others.

    Speaking during the out session of the 2024/2025 French Competence Summer held at Alliance Franciase, Iyaganku, Ibadan, Turner-Moyet said French was the second most spoken foreign language in Nigeria, hence the need to create an enabling environment for its learning and socio-interactionalism.

    She said there was need to support visibility and accessibility of French learning in Nigeria, particularly among civil servants, students, social workers, artisans and traders, to ensure global competitiveness.

    Read Also: FG pledges to strengthen trade integration, expand industrial capacity

    Alliance Franciase French facilitator and assistant lecturer at the Department of European Studies, University of Ibadan, Mr. Shadrack  Bamidele, hailed the centre for developing French speaking skills as recognised by the Nigerian government, by making sure learners learnt the rudiments and conversational skills.

    He said learning French had helped learners to fit in into international economy structures.

    French learners at the centre, Blessing Ojo and Oreofe Ayansola, described her French summer class as too experientially and touchy, urging Nigerian government to place premium on learning French competitively as English in Nigeria, to increase citizens’ international participation.

    The duo urged the Federal Government to prioritise French learning, seminars, scholarship and collaboration with foreign organisations, particularly French countries, to encourage local learners break social disparities in Anglophone countries such as Nigeria, and unlock economic challenges towards improving revenues and contributions by local French learners..