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  • Lagos speaker crisis: Aggrieved APC members kick against Meranda’s election

    Lagos speaker crisis: Aggrieved APC members kick against Meranda’s election

    Members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Lagos West senatorial district have come under criticism following the election of Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

    It would be recalled tht on January 13, 2025, Mudasiru Ajayi Obasa, who represented Agege Constituency 1 in Lagos West, was removed as Speaker by a majority of House members while he was in the United States. 

    His removal was attributed to allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. In his place, Hon. Meranda, representing Apapa Constituency 1 in Lagos Central, was elected as the new Speaker.

    However, some APC members from Lagos West, under the umbrella of the Progressives Alliance, have condemned the decision, labeling it an “injustice” and an “ill-treatment” of party members from their zone.

    In a statement signed by the group’s Secretary, Hon. Segun Banjo, they argued that Lagos West, which holds 20 out of the 40 seats in the Assembly, should have retained the Speakership position in the spirit of justice and fairness.

    “We have no issue with Obasa’s removal. Our concern is that the lawmakers, in electing Meranda, were not well guided,” the statement read.

    The group further expressed its dissatisfaction over the decision to pass over qualified lawmakers from Lagos West, stating that their zone has the largest electoral strength in terms of votes and APC membership.

    Read Also: PHOTOS: Meranda occupies Lagos Speaker’s office

    “It is appalling and disturbing that the Speakership position was handed over to Lagos Central, where Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also hails from. This decision disregards the principles of fair distribution of political offices, which should reflect both religious and sectional interests,” they added.

    The aggrieved members also criticised prominent GAC members from Lagos West, including Alhaji Mutiu Aare, former Deputy Governor Adejoke Adefulire, former Minister of State for Defence Musiliu Obanikoro, APC State Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Prince Rabiu Adio Oluwa, and former State Chairman Chief Henry Oladele Ajomale. 

    They accused them of failing to protect the interests of Lagos West in the House leadership.

    “In any case, we leave them to posterity to judge their actions,” the statement concluded.

  • Aregbesola, supporters working for PDP in Osun – APC alleges

    Aregbesola, supporters working for PDP in Osun – APC alleges

    The Osun state chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has accused the former governor of the state, Rauf Aregbesola, and his Omoluabi Progressives Group of serving as agents of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

    APC spokesman, Kola Olabisi, stated that the Osun APC is not bothered by the exit of Aregbesola’s group from the party, alleging that the former minister had left APC since 2022.

    He said: “The preposterous announcement of the so-called Omoluabi Progressives to quit the APC is a good riddance to bad rubbish. They have either been expelled or suspended from the party. How would any rational human being who has been suspended or expelled announce his resignation to the whole world again?

    “We, in the Osun State APC, shall be happy to miss the political irritants and deviants who had since left the party by way of body and soul before the 2022 governorship election in the state. You are agents of the PDP in Osun State and they are still of service to the ruling party in the state.”

    He added: “Osun APC is waxing stronger by the day. Our message to the frustrated Omoluabi Progressive handlers is that whoever wants to bury his elder brother nakedly should take along his younger brother to show the latter how he too would be buried at the end of his journey of life.”

    The Nation reports that Aregbesola, who served as Osun State governor for eight years, formed a faction within the APC known as The Osun Progressives (TOP)—now renamed Omoluabi Caucus—which opposed the re-election bid of his successor, Adegboyega Oyetola. 

    In response, the APC leadership expelled and suspended Aregbesola’s allies who either accepted appointments from Governor Ademola Adeleke of the PDP or were perceived to have worked against the party during the 2022 and 2023 elections. 

    Read Also: Aregbesola, allies set to quit APC

    Aregbesola cited his reason for leaving the APC as the party’s declining popularity and claimed that its leadership had sidelined him and his supporters. 

    The Omoluabi group led by Aregbesola, in a statement by the group’s spokesperson, Abosede Oluwaseun, on Sunday announced the exit of the group from the APC in Osun State.

    The group stated that their exit from the party was caused by ostracisation and the suspension of the group’s leaders from the APC.

  • APC chieftain congratulates board appointees

    APC chieftain congratulates board appointees

    A prominent  chieftain  of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Dr Akinola Awodeyi-Akinsehinwa, has congratulated several key party members on their recent appointments.

     They are APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje as Chairman of the Federal Airport of Nigeria (FAAN) and Chief D.I Kekemeke as Chairman of the Nigeria Postal Service (NPS).

     Awodeyi-Akinsehinwa also extended warm felicitations to Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, the new Chairman National Sugar Development Council, as well as Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi, who will lead the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion. Also  Senator Magnus Abe was appointed as Chairman National Agency for Great Green Wall.

     In a congratulatory message, he described the appointment of the eminent citizens as well-deserved and worthy of commendation. “Dr.Ganduje’s, who is the chairman of All Progressives Congress, experience as a former Governor of Kano State will undoubtedly serve well in his new role as Chairman of FAAN.

    Read Also: Osun APC hails Tinubu on Ajibola’s appointment

    Similarly, Kekemeke’s expertise will be invaluable in his position as Chairman of NPS.

     He noted that their appointments demonstrate President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to excellence and effective governance.

     He also lauded the appointment of Nze Eze Duru as Chairman, Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja and a former Commissioner for Transport in Lagos, Dr Kayode Opeifa as Chairman, Nigeria Railway Corporation.

     According to him the appointment of these eminently qualified Nigerians are expected to bring about significant impro vements in their respective sectors.

     “With their wealth of experience and expertise, they are well positioned to drive growth, innovation and efficiency in their respective roles,” he said.

  • APC holds primary for Anambra Gov March 29

    APC holds primary for Anambra Gov March 29

    Ahead of the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has fixed the  primary for March 29, 2025

    Three billionaires have indicated interest in the ticket apart from Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who died July 27,2024.

    They are: Sir Paul Chukwuma, former national Auditor of APC; Prof Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) and Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu,who once represented Abuja Municipal in the House of representatives.

    Read Also: APC chieftain Awodeyi-Akinsehinwa congratulates board appointees

    Anambra APC chairman, Sir Basil Ejidike, announced the date to the State Working Committee(SWC). 

    Anambra APC Publicity secretary, Dr Valentine Oliobi, confirmed the date to reporters. 

    ” The decision was taken after the meeting of the National Working Committee held a few days ago at the APC National Secretariat.

    ” The meeting was in line with the meeting held with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) boss Prof. Mahmood Yakubu with the heads of all the political parties few days back.

    “The All Progressives Congress found it imperative to meet and design a program for the Anambra State Gubernatorial primary election and communicate to the INEC within the ambit of the Electoral Law,” he said. 

  • Ned Nwoko: Joining APC in a blaze of honour, dignity, without stain 

    Ned Nwoko: Joining APC in a blaze of honour, dignity, without stain 

    BY NOSIKE OGBUENYI

    Chinedu Munir Nwoko, popularly known as Ned Nwoko, faces a dicey test entering the New Year as he took the decisive plunge to dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC). The PDP which is the ruling party in Delta State is the main opposition party at the centre.

    The undercurrents that culminated in Senator Nwoko’s recent decision to quit the PDP have been smoldering for long shortly after the swearing in of Sheriff Oborevwori as the governor of the state in 2023. Now with his latest action, the fate of PDP in Delta State hangs precariously on a cliff hanger.

    The PDP in the state has been clinging on the crevices of the disparate quartet of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the immediate past governor, Ifeanyi Okowa who is also godfather to Mr Oborevwori, Senator Nwoko the influential Delta North senator and the pioneer governor of the State under the present democratic dispensation, James Ibori. The chess game about the future of PDP in the state has been going on in the courtyards of the foursome. Today, the governor can only be sure of his godfather, Mr Okowa’s support.

    Mr Ibori was the first to be marginalised after his preferred candidate, Mr David Edevbie was literarily shoved aside by then incumbent Governor Okowa to pave way for anointed candidate, Mr Oborevwori’s emergence in the PDP primaries late in 2022. Since then, the first democratically elected governor in this dispensation, between 1999 and 2007, has been left in the cold by Messrs Oborevwori and Okowa.

    Many people are leaving PDP and joining the APC including current elected, appointed and other political office holders too. More significantly, within the Delta North district a large number of people are gravitating towards the APC believing strongly that Anioma State creation can be realized under APC. There are other reasons behind the gale of defections rocking the PDP in the state.

    Late last year, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the daughter of the former governor, who is representing Ethiope East/Ethiope West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives dumped PDP and joined APC citing marginalisation as her main reason for quitting.

    Barely two months after Ibori’s daughter quit the PDP, Senator Nwoko has also announced his intention to leave the party and join the APC. And he is doing so in a blaze of honour and dignity. He is as clean as whistle with no case of corruption to defend. As a self-made multi-billionaire, Senator Nwoko is among the few crop of public officers in the state who have never depended on government contracts and patronage for economic survival.

    Born into the royal family of Idumuje-Ugboko kingdom in Aniocha-North local government area of Delta State, Ned Nwoko, right from childhood, was brought up under strict traditional guidance, ethos and discipline. His journey began in the rusty streets of his ancient hometown, Idumuje-Ugboko where he learned the values of hard work, humility, respect and perseverance. Propelled and guided by sublime vision of prosperous future through hard work and a steadfast commitment to his goals, he rose meteorically through the thick and thins of adolescence and youth to exhibit early signs of success and leadership. Having deciphered the early signs of wisdom, courage and adventure in teenage boy, his family wasted no time in sponsoring him abroad to the United Kingdom in pursuit of golden fleece and the honing of his blooming sartorial attributes.

    In the UK, the young Nwoko grabbed the opportunity for pursuit of academic excellence with both hands. After earning his first degree in Law and History at the University of Keele, UK, he proceeded to Kings College, University of London where he obtained his Masters degree in Law. He was called to the English Bar as a member of the famous Lincolns Inn where the world famous jurist, Lord Denin was. He subsequently requalified as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales. A position he still holds till today. There are less than 500 Africans holding this position globally.

    Senator Nwoko began his legal practice in the UK where he flourished as an international attorney. At the peak of his legal practice, as solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, he had one of the biggest law firms owned by a black man in the UK. Returning to Nigeria, he leveraged his education and variegated experience to build a successful empire that spans various sectors, including real estate, telecommunications, tourism, education, sports, entertainment and agriculture. His efforts have not only enriched his life but also contributed significantly to the advancement of economic landscape of Nigeria.

    Read Also: Unsafe abortions fuel maternal deaths in Nigeria, says LIFE

    As a senator, Nwoko has been a voice for the youth, advocating for policies that foster innovation, education, and entrepreneurship. His philanthropic initiatives focus mainly on empowering the next generation, ensuring they have the tools necessary to navigate an ever-changing world. He can be aptly described as a global citizen and an amazing pro-people leader.

    Before his foray into active politics in Nigeria way back in 1998, he had already established an enviable reputation as a successful international lawyer and businessman.  Senator Nwoko had a successful tenure as an honorable member of the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003. Twenty years after, he returned to National Assembly as the Senator representing Delta North district, otherwise known as Anioma in 2023.

    Senator Nwoko’s independent and uncompromised background places him on moral high grounds to stand straight and speak for the people no matter whose ox is gored. But the non-profitable pro-people lane he is treading is a narrow and hazardous path in a clime like Delta State where speaking truth to power is often deemed as disloyalty to the ruling party and the established system. To the loyalists of the system and their gadflies, he stands condemned for not only breaking loose from the established system but also disrupting the status quo brazenly.   

    But Senator Nwoko seems unfazed by the risks of being on the lonely side. Doing what he perceives as the right thing for his people is his ultimate satisfaction, irrespective of the sacrifices and losses that might go with it. His position aligns with an injunction in the Holy Book which says, “Enter through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and there are many going through it.” This is a popular quote in chapter seven, verses 13 and 14 of the Biblical book of Matthew.  

    Judging by his antecedents, Senator Nwoko would literarily use his bare head to break the coconut for his people of Anioma underscoring why he is fighting for the improvement of their wellbeing. His recent open call on Delta State government to intervene and ameliorate the suffering of his people through provision of essential amenities and infrastructures has put him on collision course with the state governor and his godfather along with their coterie of supporters, praise singers and associates.

    But Senator Nwoko apparently feels happier and at peace traversing the narrow gate and connecting with the people irrespective of social status. His humanness, simplicity, empathy and open door orientation makes him to blend with the high and the low. Though highly rated as one of the most influential and active lawmakers in the present 10th National Assembly, his exalted position has not made him to disconnect with the people. His simple lifestyle and insistence on justice and care for the common man are among the factors that set him apart from the typical upper elite politicians and public officers who follow the broad way that prioritises self interest and aggrandizement. 

    He says he cannot afford to stand akimbo looking the other way while majority of the people wallow in deprivation unleashed by bad governance and systemic corruption. He is immersed in the urgency of now with his binoculars focused on what could be done to better the lives of the people, starting with his Anioma constituents, Delta State and Nigeria at large. 

    It is record that Senator Nwoko has consistently delivered for his constituents through diverse ways such as scholarship programmes for students across Delta State; road construction and rehabilitation; installation of solar street lights and boreholes; establishment of Africa’s first Sports University in Idumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North LGA; securing of federal job placements for Delta North indigenes; promoting of tourism, sponsorship of free medical outreach, surgeries and equipping primary healthcare centres, empowerment of youths, women and vulnerable members of society among others. 

    Senator Nwoko’s affinity with the people made him to bypass the choice locations of Abuja, Lagos, Benin or Enugu to site the pioneer Sports University, which he founded in Idumuje-Ugbo, a small ancient town in Delta State. He rebuffed all entreaties by friends and consultants against building the multi-billion naira institution in a developed city stressing that he was motivated by the need to bring development to his place of birth rather than quick profit and ego. 

    Such rare gestures and traits define the iconic lawmaker’s love for his root which defies the allures and high investment returns of urban centres. They also capture his innate qualities of courage of conviction, transcendental influence and popularity. It is quite evident that milk of human kindness flows naturally in his veins.

    There are other impactful strides of the towering Senator which place him head and shoulders above his peers as a great leader and achiever. These include the championing of malaria eradication campaign in Africa that shifted emphasis from curative to preventive and eradication approach, securing the Paris Club multi-billion dollars refund as well as support for the needy through poverty alleviation projects and empowerment of youths, women and vulnerable members of society.

     Even after leaving the National Assembly in 2003, he remained handy. His dedication to public service has earned him countless accolades and awards. As a senator, he is representing his people with aplomb and distinction, championing the cause of his constituents and working assiduously to promote their welfare. His leadership has been characterised by empathy, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the needs of his people.  The contributions to society by him are a testament to his remarkable character as he has always been there for all irrespective of gender, race, creed, social status or political affiliations. 

    Senator Nwoko has been a dependable pillar for the youths, advocating and championing policies that foster innovation, education, and entrepreneurship. His philanthropic initiatives focus on empowering the next generation, ensuring they have the necessary tools to navigate an ever-changing world.

    His undiluted commitment to good governance is the driving force behind his strident advocacy of Delta North’s development and fair deal from the state government. Yet this disposition is what often puts him on collision course with many gladiators in the state who are driven by contrary considerations.  

    Beyond the confines of Anioma, for long, Senator Nwoko has carved a niche for himself as a leader who consistently demonstrates his commitment to serving others, regardless of status. All through his illustrious career, he has shown a remarkable ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. His exceptional leadership qualities and capacity have been evident at all time, whether on or off the political stage. 

    An attempt was made to coerce him to eat the humble pie when he was suddenly called upon to move a motion for a vote of confidence on the state governor, Mr Oborevwori during a PDP stakeholders meeting. This is the same administration he has accused of underperforming as far infrastructures provision in Delta North is concerned. Senator Nwoko declined to move the motion attracting the ire of the governor who was present at the meeting.

     Senator Nwoko is not an anyhow politician, the type that keeps mute in the face of injustice.  He does not play boardroom politics to the detriment of his constituents, especially where the developmental needs of his people are at stake. He is not disposed to being a follower of a system that denies the people needed infrastructure and real poverty alleviation projects. This may well be the reason why Ned is genuinely loved by the people.

    Again, Senator Nwoko cannot be tamed by the ‘system’ to turn his back on his people and ignore the pains, hardships, and slavery conditions his constituents are subjected to over the years, by successive governments of the party they have supported so long. He would not turn a blind eye to the dehumanizing condition of his people on the altar of party politics. For him, the state has had enough of the dynasty that had deprived it of true dividends of democracy and the APC comes handy as the vehicle to effect the long overdue change in Delta North and the state.
     
    · Nosike Ogbuenyi, an indigene of Abala-Uno, Ndokwa East LGA, Delta State, lives in Abuja.

  • Osun 2026: Uneasy calm in APC over zoning

    Osun 2026: Uneasy calm in APC over zoning

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) lost the last governorship election mainly because it refused to zone its ticket to Osun West Senatorial District. As the countdown to the next election begins, the party is in a quandary and has yet to take a position on the matter. TOBA ADEDEJI reports

    Following the defeat it suffered in the hands of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2022, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is warming up for next year’s off-cycle governorship contest to decide who occupies the Bola Ige House in Osogbo, Osun State.

    However, the uncertainty over the APC’s position on zoning ahead of next year’s election is one factor that is still unsettling some stakeholders; particularly those who have ambitions to contest.

    It is uncertain whether the immediate past governor and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola would contest. There are insinuations in some quarters that he may not contest because of the bigger national assignment that President Bola Tinubu has entrusted in his hands.

    Be that as it may, for the APC to succeed in its bid to dislodge incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke from the Osun State Government House, it must put its house in order by organizing a rancour-free primary ahead of the off-cycle governorship election scheduled for late next year. There is internal wrangling within the fold over who gets its ticket. Based on the party’s convention, the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy and former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola has the right of first refusal, as the APC leader in Osun. However, not all stakeholders are willing to accept Oyetola as the consensus candidate.

    The APC’s influence in Osun State politics began to wane in 2017 when it lost the Osun West bye-election to the then-PDP candidate, Ademola Adeleke. The seat became vacant following the death of the lawmaker who hitherto represented the constituency, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, the elder brother of Governor Adeleke. The PDP, which fielded the incumbent governor as its flag bearer for the Osun West senatorial race, defeated the APC by winning nine local government areas, against the APC’s one.

    The consensus then was that the APC became unpopular because of the anti-people policies of the APC government led by Rauf Aregbesola. Such policies include the half salary syndrome, single uniform, school reclassification, and the state’s high indebtedness. People were determined to protest against the party with their votes during any election.

    This protest vote resulted in APC nearly losing the 2018 governorship election to Adeleke. Though Oyetola corrected most of the anti-people policies when he emerged as governor, following Aregbesola’s exit, he could not convince Osun residents that the party meant well because his government equally faced different challenges, ranging from #EndSAR protest, COVID-19, zero allocation among others.

    This was what led to the APC losing the 2022 election. Besides, the party was divided; a faction led by Aregbesola connived with the PDP, particularly in Osun West Senatorial District where members were aggrieved to dislodge the former ruling party from power.

    The clamour for a governor of Osun West extraction worked against Oyetola’s re-election bid because he is from Osun Central, while his opponent, Adeleke is from Osun West. Indications are that the APC has not learnt lessons from the last governorship election; because it has yet to take a stand on zoning, which was its undoing in the 2022 election.

    That notwithstanding, the party has been working seriously to win more members ahead of next year’s governorship election. Stakeholders have been working assiduously to increase the party’s popularity. Their efforts are yielding positive results. For instance, the party’s decision to expel or suspend members suspected to be Aregbesola loyalists is yielding some good dividends, as some of such loyalists of Aregbesola have opted to return to the APC. Others like the former APC scribe, Rasaq Salinsile have dumped the Aregbesola faction but have refused to return to the APC or even join the PDP.

    Read Also: APC chieftain rallies support for Lagos Speaker Meranda

    In this way, the APC’s numerical strength and popularity are increasing daily. For instance, former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Shuaib Oyedokun has dumped the ruling party for the APC. The APC membership is growing in leaps and bounds. Those who joined the party in recent times include former PDP governorship aspirant, Prince Dotun Babayemi; former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in 2022, Akin Ogunbiyi; former PDP House of Reps candidate, Kayode Oduoye; and former Chief of Staff to Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Peter Babalola among others. They joined the APC with thousands of their supporters.

    Aspirants are beginning to emerge for the APC ticket ahead of next year’s election. For example, supporters of the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru are said to have appealed to the party leadership to give the ticket to the former federal lawmaker because of his popularity. Basiru is from Osogbo, in Osun Central. Osogbo, the state capital, has never produced a governor since the creation of the state. But some party bigwigs have kicked against it.

    A top official close to President Tinubu is also rooting for the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji to secure the ticket. Oyebamiji is from Ikire, Osun West. However, others believe his candidacy would not appeal to the electorate because the Osun West agenda has been in place since 2018 and that the contest would favour the governor because he has only one term left.

    Yet, other party chieftains are advocating for a youth to occupy the governorship seat. In this regard, the Executive Director of Nigeria Port Authority (NPA), Olalekan Badmus, who hails from Osogbo, Osun Central, is being tipped for the party’s ticket.

    Other contenders are Senator Jide Omoworare, Prince Dotun Babayemi, former Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Timothy Owoeye, former Deputy Governor Benedict Alabi, and legal luminary, Kunle Adegoke (SAN) among others. 

    Ajibola Basiru

    Ajibola Basiru is the national secretary of APC. He is a practising lawyer with years of experience. He was also a lecturer for years. He represented Osun Central in the Senate between 2019 and 2023. He lost his re-election to the Ila-Orangun-born candidate of the PDP, Olubiyi Fadeyi.

    He served under Rauf Aregbesola as the Attorney General. He was a trusted ally of Aregbesola before he moved to the Oyetola camp and became the director-general of his campaign council in 2022. He hails from Osogbo and was a student union leader during his days at the university.

    However, Basiru is perceived to be a radical politically, which may not work in his favour during the contest. Some people are opposed to him because he is untamable with his strength and knowledge, hence, he might not win the votes of the elites during the election.

     Bola Oyebamiji

    Bola Oyebamiji is the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). He served as the Commissioner for Finance under Aregbesola and Oyetola. He was initially anointed to succeed Aregbesola because of the agitation for a power shift to Osun West. His campaign had gained popularity throughout the state with the name ‘Dodo Ikire’ before Oyetola got the party’s ticket in 2018. He was a banker before he ventured into politics.

    He was one of the eggheads under the administration of Oyetola who managed the state finance and was instrumental in repayment of about N100bn debt of Osun State within four years. He is believed to be generous as that made his popularity cut across party lines.

    However, he has never been on the ballot before and has never contested for any position before.

     Dotun Babayemi

    Prince Dotun Babayemi was a chieftain of the PDP until the eve of the last governorship election in 2022. He almost clinched the party’s ticket. He was an ally of former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola. Babayemi is from Gbongan. He has been a visible player in Osun West Senatorial District since 2011.

    Prince Babayemi is a strong politician who has created several initiatives to better people’s lives, including a health programme that has benefitted over 350,000 constituents.

    Jide Omoworare

    Senator Jide Omoworare represented the Osun East Senatorial District between 2015 and 2019. He was appointed as Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Omoworare played a pivotal role in the emergence of Aregbesola as the governor in Ile-Ife because the community has the highest number of voters in the state. He is one of the trusted allies of Tinubu and Oyetola and remained loyal during internal wrangling between Aregbesola and his successor, Oyetola.

    Olalekan Badmus

    Olalekan Badmus, an engineer by profession, is one of the trusted mentees of Oyetola from Osogbo. He served as the Commissioner of Regional Integration and Special Duties under the administration of Oyetola.

    Badmus played a pivotal role in the government of Oyetola, as he handled one of the popular initiatives of that government, the Monthly Free Food Scheme that fed about one million households between 2021 and 2022.

    He is appealing to youths because of his large heart. His family is well known for the act of philanthropy. This earned him the sobriquet, ‘Omo Oloore’. He does not appear to have political enemies.

    The father’s influence in Osogbo, particularly in the religious circle as the Asiwaju Musulumi in Yorubaland, would work in his favour.

    Badmus had aspired for the Irepodun/Olorunda/Orolu and Osogbo Federal Constituency seat in 2019. He lost the ticket narrowly because the party leadership had endorsed another aspirant and prevailed on him to step down. He has won the hearts of party members with his humility and generosity.  

    Power rotation among the three senatorial districts, also known as zoning would play a crucial role in deciding the election. A chieftain of the APC Sunday Akere said his party would only zone its governorship ticket to Osun West Senatorial District if Oyetola refuses to run for another term. Akere who served as Commissioner for Information under the administration of Rauf Aregbesola said the district will be the party’s focus once the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who has the right of first refusal, refuses to run for another term.

    The ex-information commissioner, who also served as Special Adviser to Oyetola on Political Affairs, added that the party has credible personalities across the three senatorial districts who will deliver victory in 2026. However, he said the party would zone the ticket to Osun West Senatorial District for fairness. He said all the political bigwigs from the district are eminently qualified to pick the ticket and deliver victory for the party.

    He said: “For fairness, the APC will focus more on Osun West Senatorial District for its candidate. I will not mention names but you are all aware that every major politician in the district is academically, psychologically and morally qualified to wrestle power from Governor Adeleke in 2026.”

    However, a group known as the Osun Progressive Youths has rubbished Akere’s words, adding that he is being undemocratic, and self-serving and does not represent the interest and wishes of APC leaders and members. In a statement, its coordinator, Oladele Oladejo cautioned Akere against causing disunity within APC with his comment on zoning the governorship ticket to Osun West.

    He said: “Such a statement is not expected from someone who is supposed to know better how party politics works. Akere cannot speak for the party. The position of the ex-commissioner also negates the principles of fairness and the ideals of inclusivity on which the APC was formed and thrived. He should stop playing the role of APC spokesman and focus on how to brighten the party’s chances during the election.”

    The APC leadership has also refuted Akere’s statement on zoning, saying the party has not taken any position on the zone that would produce its governorship candidate. A statement by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi urged party members to disregard Akere’s position, adding that he was merely expressing his personal opinion on the matter.

    Olabisi said: “The decision on where the party’s next governorship candidate will come from cannot be taken under the table; it shall be made public to all stakeholders. Therefore, it is needless for our members and supporters to have sleepless nights on the issue as it is a yet-to-be-treated party affair whose process would be as transparent as ever when the time comes.”

    An analysis of the last governorship election shows that votes from Osun West gave Adeleke of the PDP victory over his APC counterpart, Oyetola. The APC polled a total number of 116,860 votes against PDP’s 144,558 during the election. The PDP won the election because of the massive support it got in Osun West Senatorial District where it dwarfed the APC by 27,698 votes. In Osun East, the APC got 121,873 votes, while the PDP had 120,080 votes; hence the APC defeated the PDP with 1,793. Also, in Osun Central, the APC got 136,294 votes, against 138,733 votes secured by the PDP. The latter got 2,439 votes more than the former in the district.

  • Flush out bandits from forests, Ganduje tells Military

    Flush out bandits from forests, Ganduje tells Military

    The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has emphasized the need for more proactive and decisive measures, particularly targeting the criminal elements hiding in forests, to effectively address banditry in the country.

    He said the solution to the menace of armed banditry is to conquer the forest where the criminal elements are now hiding.

    Ganduje made the suggestion when he led the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party on a sympathy visit to the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago over last week’s tanker explosion in Dikko, Gurara Local Government area of the state.

    Advocating an offensive security operations strategy, Ganduje praised the efforts of Governor Bago in maintaining peace within the state despite its vast landmass and numerous forests.

    In a statement issued by chief press secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje, expressed concern about the reactive approach often adopted in addressing the festering banditry attacks in different states of the country.

    Recalling how he was able to tame the bandits in Falgore forest in Kano State during his tenure as governor, Ganduje advocated for military intervention in forests by turning it into a military training ground, eliminating criminal activities in the areas.

    “We are here to pray to our friend, our brother and the good people of Niger State, we sincerely condole with the government and the good people of Niger, the families of the deceased and the injured ones.

    “We appreciate how you keep Niger State safe because Niger State has the largest land mass and with the highest numbers of forest in the country which is a herculean task to keep the peace within its environs”.

    Read Also: Kwankwaso, Ganduje must reconcile in Kano’s interest-Kofa

    “Your Excellency, the solution to this menace is to conquer the forest. The bandits are in the forest, why have we been on the defensive instead of being on the offensive? When I was the governor of Kano State I requested through the federal government that the military take over Falgore Forest and the military built a military training ground there that was how bandits were chased away from that forest and Kano is at peace“

    Ganduje also conveyed condolences to the people of Niger State over the recent tanker explosion that claimed numerous lives, offering prayers and support to the families of the victims.

    In response, Governor Bago appreciated the solidarity of the APC leadership and urged the Federal Government to address critical infrastructure, such as the Suleja-Minna road, to reduce accidents and improve safety in the state.

    “I’m standing before you on behalf of Nigerlites, we appreciate this visit. We are doing a lot to create awareness among our people about the dangers of scooping fuel whenever such an accident occurs.”

  • APC advises new Lagos Assembly Speaker, Meranda

    APC advises new Lagos Assembly Speaker, Meranda

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has advised the new Speaker of the state’s House of Assembly, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, to discharge her duties diligently and conscientiously.

    The APC Spokesman, Mr Seye Oladejo,  gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Tuesday in Lagos.

    Oladejo urged Meranda to do her best to build confidence in the  House and meet  the expectations of the people.

    Oladejo said: “We want to congratulate the new speaker on her well deserved election.

    “She needs no reminder that she’s first among equals, hence the need to remain a team player and maintain the cohesion , confidence, mutual respect and understanding that brought her to office.

    “It is imperative to uphold and remain loyal to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which she swore to.

    “She must remain committed to democratic principles as regards the fulfillment of the social contract with the good people of Lagos State for which our dear party, the APC, is well known.”

    The spokesman, however, said that the party had no doubt that Meranda, the first female speaker of the House, would deliver on this mandate and make the leadership and members of APC proud.

    “As she rightly expressed on a number of occasions, a good working relationship with the executive is a prerequisite for success and in the overall interest of all and sundry,” Oladejo added.

    NAN recalls that the erstwhile speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa (APC-Agege 1), a sixth-term lawmaker, was removed by lawmakers on Jan. 13.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu to Meranda: we will work together

    Thirty-two (32) out of the 40 lawmakers, at an emergency plenary, impeached Obasa via voice votes, over alleged gross misconduct.

    The assembly subsequently elected and swore-in Deputy Speaker, Meranda (APC-Apapa I) to replace Obasa, while Mr Fatai Adebola (APC- Ibeji-Lekki I) was elected as the Deputy Speaker.

    Meanwhile, Meranda, on Monday led her team of new principal officers of the House on a courtesy visit to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Ikeja.

    Meranda said the visit provided an opportunity to reaffirm the Assembly’s commitment to maintaining a harmonious working relationship with the executive arm of government.

    (NAN)

  • Niger explosion: APC chieftain Mumuni warns against mobile phone use near fuel tankers

    Niger explosion: APC chieftain Mumuni warns against mobile phone use near fuel tankers

    …seeks public awareness and literacy in fuel tanker safety

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Nurain Abayomi Mumuni, has cautioned Nigerians against using mobile phones near fuel tankers, warning that such actions could trigger explosions. 

    Mumuni issued the warning while condoling with Governor Umaru Bago and the people of Niger State over the tragic fuel tanker explosion that claimed the lives of 73 people at Dikko Junction along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway on Saturday. 

    In a statement signed by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, and released on Sunday evening, Mumuni emphasized the importance of public awareness and literacy in fuel tanker safety to prevent similar tragedies in the future. 

    He urged Nigerians to promptly report any fuel tanker leaks or unsafe parking to local authorities to avert potential disasters.

    “My condolences go to the executive governor of Niger State Bago and victims of the Fuel tanker explosion.

    “Addressing literacy and awareness regarding fuel tanker safety is crucial to preventing explosions in Nigeria.

    “Understand Emergency Protocols: Familiarize yourself with emergency response procedures in case of a fuel tanker accident. Know who to contact and how to react.

    “Report Unsafe Conditions: If you observe a fuel tanker leaking or parked in an unsafe location, report it to local authorities immediately.

    “Avoid Hot Work Near Tankers: Never conduct welding, cutting, or any activities that produce sparks near fuel tankers to prevent ignition.

    Read Also: Mumuni urges Tinubu to engage UN, AU over state-sponsored terrorism allegation

    “Maintain Distance. Always keep a safe distance from fuel tankers, especially during loading and unloading operations. Educate Children. Teach children about the dangers of fuel tankers. Ensure they know to stay clear of these vehicles and report any issues to an adult.

    “Follow Traffic Rules. Adhere strictly to traffic signs and signals when near fuel tankers. Never attempt to overtake them recklessly. Recognize Warning Signs: Be aware of warning symbols on fuel tankers that signify the presence of hazardous materials.

    “Limit Mobile Phone Use. Avoid using mobile phones near fuel tankers, as they can potentially cause static electricity, leading to explosions. Community Awareness Programs: Participate in local workshops or forums discussing fuel safety and proper handling of hazardous materials.

    “Understand Fuel Properties: Learn about the flammable nature of fuels carried by tankers and the conditions that can lead to accidents. By disseminating these statements, the aim is to foster a culture of safety and awareness that can help mitigate the risks posed by fuel tanker operations in Nigeria”. 

  • APC clears 16 councils in Ondo

    APC clears 16 councils in Ondo

    • Minister hails stakeholders for sportsmanship

    Ondo State  Independent Electoral Commission has declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner in 16 local governments in Saturday’s election held in the state.

    News Agency of Nigeria reports that 12 parties participated in the local government election for positions of chairman, deputy chairman and councillors in the 18 local governments.

    Announcing the result yesterday, Dr Joseph Aremo, chairman of the commission and chief returning officer, said APC also won all the councillorship seats in the 16 local governments.

    Aremo said the results for Owo Council and Ondo West Local Government, which were cancelled and rescheduled for yesterday, due to the wrong logo of one of the parties on the ballot papers, would be announced later.

    Read Also: Niger tanker explosion: First Lady expresses sadness, urges caution

    Interior Minister Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has described the just concluded local government elections in Ondo State as a victory for all and the advancement of democracy.

    The elections were conducted across the 18 local governments at the weekend.

    Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed by his media aide, Alao Babatunde, congratulated the winners of the poll and lauded other contestants for their courage and display of sportsmanship.

    He described the election as a proof of the growing maturity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, as well as the unwavering dedication of Ondo State citizens to grassroots governance.

    “As I reflect on this achievement, I am reminded of the strength of our collective will. When the people embrace peace, uphold fairness and commit to democratic values, progress becomes inevitable. Ondo State has once again demonstrated that unity and maturity are the hallmarks of true democracy,” he said.

    Tunji-Ojo said: “The successful conduct of the local government election in Ondo State is a victory for our people and democracy. I must commend the peaceful conduct of the electorate and the courage of the contestants.”