The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Adeleke brokers peace between deputy, PDP leaders after vote of no confidence

    Adeleke brokers peace between deputy, PDP leaders after vote of no confidence

    Governor Ademola Adeleke has resolved the feud between his deputy, Kola Adewusi after leaders of his party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) passed vote of no confidence in him for alleged anti-party activities. 

    The Nation recalls that party leaders from Ife Federal Constituency, led by the state Financial Secretary, Prince Adesoji Adegoke, former Deputy Speaker Ropo Oyewole, two serving commissioners, Dipo Eluwole and Biyi Odunlade, along with 35 others, had taken the decision at a meeting last week Monday.

    However, in a statement by the Governor’s spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke confirmed that the matter had been resolved, urging all stakeholders to resist attempts by the opposition to create division within the PDP.

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    The reconciliation was sealed at a high-powered meeting attended by Deputy Governor Adewusi, Deputy Senate Minority Leader Senator Lere Oyewumi, State PDP Chairman Hon. Sunday Bisi, Secretary to the State Government Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, Chief of Staff Hon. Kazeem Akinleye, Chairman of the Commissioners’ Forum Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa, and other party stalwarts.

    Governor Adeleke described the disagreement as a product of communication gaps and external influences, praising party leaders for their openness and commitment to unity ahead of next year’s elections.

    “Throughout this meeting today, I see Ile Ife PDP very truly 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 roots of the matter, I charge us to get back to work. Our administration has done so much for Ifeland 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 of the party” the Governor told the party chiefs.

    Earlier, the party chairman, Hon Sunday Bisi described the incident leading to a vote of no confidence as a family affair, adding that “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 decisively frown at any act capable of misinterpretation as anti-party activity”, the party chairman told the meeting.

  • Oba Ladoja charges Yoruba traditional rulers on unity, peaceful coexistence 

    Oba Ladoja charges Yoruba traditional rulers on unity, peaceful coexistence 

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

    He urged them to also ensure that unity, promoting and preservation of the Yoruba culture and traditions remains their collective watch word. 

    He gave the charge while playing host to 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. 

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

    Speaking on the import of the visit, he said the unity and promotion of peaceful togetherness is a collective responsibility of all Yoruba traditional rulers, and which just be pursued.

    According to him, Yoruba has rich cultural values that the whole world cherish and respect, as such, nothing should be done to tanish tjem, which he described as great Yoruba cultural heritages.

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    Earlier in his remarks, the Elerinmo of Erinmo said the emergence of Oba Ladoja as the Olubadan is a testimony of divine providence, wisdom and the collective trust of the great people of Ibadanland, adding, “with great joy and heartfelt delight, I extend my warm congratulations on your ascension to the revered throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland.” 

    Oba Ajayi prayed that as the Olubadan-designate steps into the the exalted office, his reign will usher in greater peace, unity and development for Ibadanland and indeed for Yoruba land as whole.

    According to the Elerinmo, the stool of Olubadan is of historical significance, praying further that Oba Ladoja reign be marked with wisdom, long life, prosperity and countless achievements that will further uplift the heritage and dignity of the Yoruba race in entirety.

  • Ekiti residents laud Oyebanji’s strides in infrastructure, health, others

    Ekiti residents laud Oyebanji’s strides in infrastructure, health, others

    Residents of Ekiti state have given the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji a pass mark in all sectors of the economy, saying the state is better off in the last three years.

    The residents lauded the administration for its impactful initiatives in education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, job creation, and human capital development.

    They spoke at the weekend during a media tour and on-the-spot assessment of projects completed by the Oyebanji administration in the last three years, by journalists in the state.

    A community leader in Ikole-Ekiti, Chief Samuel Awotayo, said that the governor had surpassed the expectations of Ekiti people, noting that Oyebanji has brought unprecedented socio-economic growth and development to the state.

    He added that the governor, within three years, has overwhelmingly convinced the people that a greater Ekiti is achievable through massive investment in critical infrastructures, the health sector, education, and agriculture.

    Chief Awotayo said that the result of the laudable performance of Oyebanji was evident as all nooks and crannies of the state have been positively touched with his transformation agenda and inclusive governance approach.

    A resident of Igbemo Ekiti, Gboyega Ojo, said that the completion of the Iworoko-Are-Afao-Ado-Ekiti Ring Road has improved commercial activities for his community, known for rice production.

    According to Ojo, as far as the residents of Iworoko, Afao, Are, and Igbemo are concerned, the ring road stands out as one of the most visible achievements under the first phase of the Ekiti Ring Road project.

    Other residents confirmed that the route, which connects Iworoko through Are, Afao, Araromi Obo, the Ekiti Cargo Airport, and terminates at Aso Ayegunle on Ijan Road, has already begun to boost commerce, attract visitors, and ease movement across communities.

    Speaking on the renovation of the General Hospital Ilupeju, a resident of the area, Mrs Ajoke Aderemi, said people now have access to better medical care because of the new medical facilities and medical officers posted to the facility.

    “I delivered my two children in a private hospital, but the one on my back was delivered here in this hospital. We thank the government for improving this place and making pregnant women get free health care,” she said.

    A parent, Mr Olusegun Ajayi, who spoke with journalists at Egbeoba High School, Ikole, said, “Before, the buildings in this school were dilapidated. Parents preferred private schools, but today, the facilities have improved, and enrolment has increased because many parents have withdrawn their children from private schools.” 

    In Aisegba Community Grammar School in Aisegba-Ekiti, Mr Oluwadare Aderibigbe described the school project as a major relief for both teachers and students, saying, “Seven years ago, these buildings were eyesores, but now everywhere is okay. The provision of boreholes has also improved health and hygiene.”

    He also called on the state government to construct perimeter fencing for enhanced security, saying this would further boost the security architecture of the Citadel of Learning.

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    Youths also praised the governor for his Agricultural initiatives, like the Erifun Livestock project and training youths in modern poultry management, Renewed Hope Farms that dotted across the three geopolitical zones.

    Ayomide Oluwale, a livestock farmer, said the project has taught participants how to manage feeds, lighting, and production cycles for up to 3,000 birds per pen.

    He appealed for solar street lights and more pens to reduce security risks and expand youth participation.

    At the Renewed Hope Farm at Eporo-Ekiti, Emure Local Government, established in partnership with YSJ Farm Settlement, Farm Manager, Solomon Adediran, described it as one of the best farm projects in the state, saying, “Last year, participants were trained and the government cleared 201 hectares for YSJ.

    “We now have 126 participants grouped into six teams. The government provides bulldozers, seeds, fertilisers, and chemicals free of charge. We planted maize this year, and in two to three weeks, we will harvest. Offtakers are ready to buy, and participants will earn after selling.”

    A participant, Seyi Olootu, commended the empowerment programme, noting that the inclusion of women has made his administration the government of all.

    “We are being empowered and trained for free. We want to appreciate the Governor for this opportunity. Women must be inclusive in governance, and he has tried in that aspect”, he added.

  • Oyo ex-lawmakers seek Police protection for Assembly member over N300b loan saga

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

    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. Ibrahim Shittu, member representing Saki West State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly.

    The forum alleged that some disgruntled politicians are unhappy with Shittu for exposing a purported N300 billion loan said to have been approved by the Assembly for Governor Seyi Makinde.

    At an emergency meeting held over the weekend in Ibadan, the forum’s chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Bolomope, said they were compelled to intervene because of concerns about the implications of the loan on the people of Oyo State and the safety of their colleague.

    The ex-lawmakers argued 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 visible impact on infrastructure and the welfare of citizens.

    Members of the forum include former Speakers Hon. Olagunju Ojo and Hon. Asimiyu Alarape, as well as Hon. Sikiru Akintola Alli, Hon. John Olaleru, Hon. Mogaji Adigun Ahmed Murphy, Hon. Elder Adegboyega Mathew Abioye, Hon. Fatai Salaam, Hon. Afeez Adeleke, Hon. D.A. Lawal, Hon. Dr. Mathew Oyedokun, Hon. Hazmat Ogunsola, Hon. Mrs. Ramata Okemakinde, among others.

    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 facts of the matter, its merit and demerit, and we come to the conclusion 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 have confirmed that with the rate of the allocation his state is receiving monthly, 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.

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    “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.

    “We believe that if this is done, the security agencies would have proven to Nigerians that people who have information that will expose the ills and corruption in society, that will assist the ordinary common man, will have the courage to come out and inform the public.

    “We also have it on good authority that there is a grand plan by the House of Assembly to suspend Hon. Ibrahim Shittu anytime the House resumes and stops his salary and allowance for exposing them to the public. We want to warn the House to jettison such a plan to avoid any form of violence that may erupt thereafter.

    “In conclusion, we once again applaud Hon. Shittu for being a courageous parliamentarian and for a good representation of his people.”

  • APC scribe Basiru rallies Alubarika movement for Osun 2026, Tinubu’s 2027 re-election

    APC scribe Basiru rallies Alubarika movement for Osun 2026, Tinubu’s 2027 re-election

    …says he will abide by the decision of leadership over my gubernatorial ambition

    The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has mobilised the Alubarika Movement, a socio-political group, to secure victory for the party in the 2026 Osun governorship election and ensure the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    Addressing hundreds of members of the group over the weekend in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, Basiru reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, stressing that “winning is key for APC.”

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    On his gubernatorial ambition, he said, “There is no need for desperation. I am a party man to the core, and whoever the party chooses is acceptable to me. What matters now is for us to stay united and continue the great work we are doing to elevate our party in the state to an enviable position.”

    The APC scribe also pledged his commitment to Tinubu’s re-election bid, stating that the President is laying the foundation for a strong economy and that opposition parties are only driven by self-interest.

    In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Alubarika Movement, Alhaji Kehinde Olamolu, assured Basiru of the group’s unwavering loyalty, vowing to intensify grassroots mobilisation to deliver resounding victories for APC in both the 2026 Osun governorship and 2027 presidential elections.

  • Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against terrorism, bandity

    Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against terrorism, bandity

    …pledges justice for victims of Owo massacre 

    Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminal elements, threatening the peace and unity of the nation.

    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 Ayodeji Arogundade, the governor said the country has the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging the 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 bear the scars. 

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

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor stressed that the memories of the victims 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 Sunshine State,” Aiyedatiwa said.

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

    He noted that these measures have earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    Aiyedatiwa also 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, healthcare, and social development.

    In his remarks, Bishop Arogundade applauded 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.

  • 2027: Oyo lawmaker, Oseni to mobilise thousands of ROCOF members for Tinibu’s re-election

    2027: Oyo lawmaker, Oseni to mobilise thousands of ROCOF members for Tinibu’s re-election

    …seeks APC alignment to attract more FG presence in Oyo

    The lawmaker representing Ido/Ibarapa East Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Aderemi Oseni, has declared that the Remi Oseni Committee of Friends (ROCOF) will mobilise massively to secure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 and return the All Progressives Congress (APC) to power in Oyo State.

    Oseni, who is also the President of ROCOF, disclosed that the movement has already registered over 265,000 members across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, just eight weeks after its inauguration in Ibadan. 

    He projected that the figure would rise to 500,000 by December.

    Speaking in Ibadan at the launch of ROCOF’s Ido Local Government Area chapter, Oseni said Nigerians are eager for change and committed to building a new future under Tinubu’s leadership.

    He praised the President’s reforms, including fuel subsidy removal, increased allocations to states, agricultural interventions, financial support for small businesses, and the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which he described as a bold move giving hope to millions of students.

    The lawmaker emphasised the need for APC to reclaim Oyo State in 2027 to align with the Federal Government and attract more development projects. 

    According to him, the PDP-led administration in the state must be shown the “exit door” for residents to enjoy greater dividends of democracy.

    Oseni also announced a ₦50 million intervention fund for traders in Ido/Ibarapa East Federal Constituency to support small businesses and boost grassroots economic activities.

    He said, “Our traders are the heartbeat of local commerce. This support will help them grow and expand their businesses.”

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    The ROCOF leader also unveiled a new scholarship initiative for youths, tagged the “ROCOF University Scholarship Scheme,” under which students who score at least five distinctions in WAEC and gain admission into higher institutions will enjoy free tuition from entry to graduation.

    “Our youths are leaders of tomorrow. Education is the bedrock of progress, and we will continue to invest in them.”

    The assembly, which Oseni described as his “homecoming of destiny,” was attended by traditional rulers, APC chieftains, artisans, women and youth groups, and thousands of grassroots supporters.

  • Osun 2026: APC leaders declare support for Adegoke

    Osun 2026: APC leaders declare support for Adegoke

    Ahead of the primary election of the All Progressive Congress to select the party’s candidate for the 2026 governorship election in Osun State, party leaders have declared their support for Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (SAN), popularly known as K-RAD.

    During his visit to Boripe Local Government Area of the State, the APC Elders’ Caucus commended Adegoke’s loyalty and dedication to the party.

    The Chairman of the Boripe APC Elders’ Caucus, Hon. Osuolale Bello praised Adegoke for his consistent commitment to the party’s unity, membership drive, growth and development.

    The Boripe APC Elders also declared that former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola had not endorsed any aspirant for the 2026 governorship election.

    “Barrister Kunle Adegoke has demonstrated exemplary loyalty to the APC through his legal expertise, grassroots engagement, and steadfast support for the party’s vision. His contributions, including his role in defending the party’s interests in high-profile electoral cases, have been invaluable,” the lawyer said.

    The elders highlighted Adegoke’s efforts in fostering unity among party members and his policy-driven approach to governance, as outlined in his engagements with APC leaders and stakeholders. They described him as a “utility aspirant” whose vision for economic revival, transparent governance, and infrastructure development aligns with the aspirations of Osun residents.

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    Addressing speculations that have been rife in the past few months, Bello emphasized that Oyetola, a key leader of APC in Osun, remains neutral and focused on uniting the party to reclaim power from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2026.

    “Alhaji Oyetola has made it clear that his priority is the APC’s victory, not the endorsement of any individual aspirant.

    “He urged all aspirants to work together, avoid divisive tactics, and prioritize the party’s collective goal,” Bello stated, referencing Oyetola’s remarks at a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Osogbo.

    Responding, Adegoke reaffirmed his support for Oyetola’s leadership and the APC’s mission to deliver good governance in Osun State. He called on all party members to remain united and mobilize for the upcoming Continuous Voters Registration exercise, describing it as a critical step toward ensuring electoral success in 2026.

  • TAMPAN hails longest-reigning Ekiti monarch on 66th anniversary

    TAMPAN hails longest-reigning Ekiti monarch on 66th anniversary

    The Ekiti State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, the Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on the 66th anniversary of his ascension to the throne.

    In a statement, the Governor of the association, Olasunkanmi Dada, hailed the monarch for projecting the heritage of the town in the last 65 years.

    “Since 1959, Kabiyesi has stood as a pillar of culture, tradition, and wisdom, carrying the heritage of one of the country’s richest lands with grace and dignity. His reign remains a testament to the resilience of our heritage, the depth of our history, and the pride of our identity as Yorubas.”

    The highly-revered monarch, who turned 92 in August, 2025 is loved and celebrated by his people for his dedication and preservation of the beautiful heritage and history of the ancient town.

    One of such, according to Dada, is the celebration of the annual Àkè festival, known as Odún Àkè by the people of the community.

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    “Odún Àkè is not just a festival, but who we are. It is celebrated with pomp and pageantry by the good people of Igede-Ekiti. It is one festival that binds every son and daughter of Igede together,” Dada explained.

    As part of the efforts to record the story behind the festival for posterity, Dada disclosed that he is rounding off plans to put Àkè story into a movie.

    Àkè cum Igede Ekiti has a very rich history. And it should equally be noted that the popular Osun River has its source in Igede Ekiti.

    The proposed movie on Àkè will be quite entertaining and educative, especially to the good people of Igede-Ekiti..

  • Akoko youths rebuke Oluboyo over statement on Ondo APC leadership tussle

    Akoko youths rebuke Oluboyo over statement on Ondo APC leadership tussle

    The Akoko Youth Frontiers has expressed strong displeasure over a recent statement credited to Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo, alleging a purported leadership tussle between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    In a statement signed by its Convener, Ologunagba Kayode, the group described Oluboyo’s claims as “baseless, misleading and an attempt to sow discord within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State.”

    Oluboyo had suggested that there was a brewing contest for the leadership of the party between Governor Aiyedatiwa and Dr. Tunji-Ojo, further pointing to the fact that the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and the Minister both hail from Ondo North Senatorial District.

    The group, however, faulted Oluboyo for failing to cite any instance, either in private or in public, where Dr. Tunji-Ojo had questioned the leadership of the APC in the state or attempted to disrupt any zoning arrangement.

    “It is surprising that a man of Oluboyo’s calibre, who should be playing a leadership role for all politicians of Akoko extraction, would instead choose to throw a fellow Akoko man under the bus for personal gain. Meanwhile, it is not as if we do not know that Oluboyo was never recognised in the eyes of the law as Deputy Governor, since Ali Olanusi won against him in court. However, we have all graciously continued to accord him that respect.” he said.

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    The group likened Oluboyo’s position to the biblical ‘voice of Jacob, hands of Esau,’ alleging that the former deputy governor was only acting on behalf of a hidden paymaster.

    The Akoko Youth Frontiers challenged Oluboyo to state clearly if he had ever reached out to the Minister to verify the allegations before making his statement public. “If no such effort was made, then he is not in any position to give unsolicited advice to Dr. Tunji-Ojo.” the group stated.

    The statement further reaffirmed the group’s support for the Minister, describing him as “a man of honour whose current focus is delivering the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians.”

    The group warned against what it described as a “devilish plot of bringing him down at all costs,” which it said has historically hindered the progress of Akokoland.

    “We say enough of this destructive tendency. As Akoko sons and daughters, we will continue to stand by our son, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in his service to the nation.” The statement concluded.