Infrastructure

Abiodun Commissions Siun-Owode Road, Promises More Development

By Web News 556

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun says his government will continue with its infrastructural drive, especially in the area of road construction as a catalyst for economic growth and development.

Governor Abiodun spoke at the commissioning of the six-kilometre (first phase) of the Siun-Owode-Ofada Road in the Obafemi Owode Local Government of the state.

Speaking at the event, which was attended by the Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulrahman AbdulRasak, Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of road construction in the overall development of the state. 

The governor described the newly rehabilitated road as an alternative to the ever-busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, adding that it would also impact positively on the socio-economic development of communities along the road.

He said the construction of the road was a testimony to the dedication to strategic and methodical development of infrastructure across the state to enhance the socio-economic landscape as enshrined in the “Building our Future Together” agenda of his administration.

“The road represents a vital link between communities to boost local economies and connect all those coming from Abeokuta to Siun, Owode up to Mowe. This local government is where people work in Lagos but reside and commute daily”.

“The road is an alternative for people from Abeokuta to Lagos. It will significantly impact the socio-economy development of the state,” the governor noted.

He added that the road is the first to be commissioned this year, just as the Mowe-Ofada Road has been completed, adding that his administration would soon commission more roads including the Ilaro-Owode Road and the Gateway International Cargo Airport at Ilisan.

Governor Abiodun listed Obantoko, Gbonogun, Ikorita Meje-Aderinde-Olokotutu, Olomore-Sanni, Somorin- Kemta-Idi-Aba, Panseke-Adigbe as well as the Olusegun Osoba-Toyin-Agbado as some of the roads that have been attended to in Ogun Central Senatorial District, even as he pledged that more roads would be put in good shape soon. 

He spoke on why some road projects were delayed, blaming the development on the high price of construction materials.

He said: “We have had a slowdown on construction due to the situation of things in the country in the last few months which has not allowed for objective pricing of construction materials”.

“But for us, construction represents a lot. Besides the fact that road construction allows for the movement of goods, services, and people, the construction industry is the largest employer of labour. So, we will continue to prioritize construction.”

He called on the people to take ownership of the road and other infrastructure provided by the government by protecting them as they were commonwealth and taxes were used in providing them.

In a remark, the Kwara State governor, who is also the Chairman, Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrasak, praised Governor Abiodun for the infrastructural revolution going on in the state.

According to him, the Abiodun-led administration has judiciously invested in the commonwealth of the people.

Governor Abdulrasak said he has visited other states in the country but was impressed with the level of development in Ogun State.

He called on his colleagues from other parts of the country to take a cue from Ogun State by providing their people with the needed infrastructure to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

The Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Shuaib Afolabi Salis, recalled that the road was pencilled down for reconstruction in 2022 and expressed appreciation to the governor, for not abandoning the road like his predecessors.

Senator Salis called on the people to make good use of the road as it belongs to them.

The Ogun State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Yemi Sanusi, described the road as historic to the Egba people because of its interconnectivity with various communities and its importance to the commercial activities of the communities along the road.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, Mr Adesina Ogunsola appreciated the state government for reconstructing the road and for providing a 7.5 KVA transformer to Owode to restore power to the town.

In his welcome address, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engineer Ade Akinsanya said the road, which was in bad shape for many years, was reconstructed with a standard drainage system to conform to the federal government’s specification for highways.

The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele, former deputy governors, members of the National and State Assemblies, traditional rulers, and party stalwarts, among others.

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Politics

Idahosa Emerges as Edo APC’s  Deputy Gov Candidate

By Web News 719

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has selected Hon. Dennis Idahosa as its deputy governorship candidate in the September 21 Edo governorship election.

Idahosa will serve as a running mate for the APC candidate in the state, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

Recall that Idahosa was one of the aspirants who vied for the APC ticket for the Edo governorship election during the party primaries but lost to Okpebholo, who eventually emerged as the party’s flag bearer for the November 21, 2024 election.

At a meeting on Sunday night, Idahosa was unveiled in the presence of the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, Okpebholo himself, and several other party chieftains.

Ganduje, along with the party’s National Secretary, Sen. Ajibola Bashiru, is scheduled to present Okpebholo and Idahosa to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the villa today.

Idahosa is slated to take the place of Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, who was named by the governorship candidate last week as his running mate.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Lifestyle

Segun Oni Commiserate with Ekiti APC over Chairman’s Demise

By Web News 399

By Kazeem Ayodeji

In a heartfelt expression of solidarity, former governor of Ekiti State, Chief Segun Oni has conveyed his profound sorrow over the passing of the APC Chairman, Mr Paul Omotosho, describing it as a monumental loss to the state. 

Chief Oni who stated this during a condolence visit to Governor Biodun Oyebanji in his office in Ado Ekiti, said the development requires the sympathy of everyone, irrespective of political differences.

He extended his deepest condolences, saying that he had already paid respects to the bereaved family in Imesi Ekiti while offering prayers for solace and strength for them.

Responding, governor Oyebanji commended Chief Oni’s gesture, recognizing him as a statesman whose considerations transcend political divides.

Mr Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the state’s former governor’s empathetic presence during this time of mourning.

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Politics

Work for APC’s interest, Ganduje Tells Idahosa

By Web News 409

National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress APC, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has congratulated the winner of the Edo State governorship primary election, Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
Ganduje in a statement issued Saturday night by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, urged Idahosa to carry all aspirants along so as to deliver the party at the fourth governorship election in the State.

He equally commended Governor Hope Uzodinma’s Election Committee, noting that its transparency in the conduct of the election is highly commendable.

“I want to congratulate the winner of the Edo State governorship election, I want to equally commend and appreciate Governor Hope Uzodinma’s election committee for their hard work and the transparent manner in which the primary election was conducted.
At this point, I want to call on all the aspirants to bury the hatchet and work for the interest of the party so that our party will emerge victorious”, he said.

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Politics

Saki West Rerun: Oyo APC Thumbs up INEC, Security Agencies

By Web News 359

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The All Progressives Congress, APC in Oyo state has expressed its satisfaction at the conduct of the Saturday re-run election which returned its candidate, Ibrahim Shittu, to the State House of Assembly as the lawmaker representing Saki West State Constituency.

The court-ordered election took place in Unit 07, Ward 06 and Unit 19, Ward 11 of Saki West State Constituency on Saturday amidst tension as both the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP)! and the opposition APC engaged themselves in a battle of attrition to win the seat and increase their membership at the State House of Assembly.

In a statement issued at the weekend and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC attributed the successful conduct of the isolated election to the uncommon impartiality, great sense of patriotism and high level of professionalism demonstrated by the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as well as officers and men of all the security agencies mobilized for the exercise.

“The Saturday election was unnecessary because our candidate won a pure mandate in March 2023 when the gubernatorial and House of Assembly polls were conducted but as democrats, we accepted the verdict of the court. As we embarked on another round of electioneering, the good people of Saki kept assuring us that the mandate would be restored and they kept their promise even in the face of intimidation and harassment in the hands of some anti-democratic elements.

“The ruling PDP came out for the isolated election in their true colour as desperados and this did not surprise the people. At a time the effects of the explosion ravaged the Bodija community in Ibadan and when cases of fire incidents were being recorded in many parts of the state capital in addition to the harrowing experience of the residents of the state on account of inflation, the best which Gov. Makinde can do was to move the entire government machinery to Saki for election in just two Polling Units.

“But for the determination of the INEC personnel and the bravery of officers and men of the Nigeria Army, Police, DSS, EFCC, NSCDC among others, the exercise would have been compromised by those who believe in vote buying and employment of thugs to win elections. PDP shared between N20,000 and N30,000 to individuals who were registered as voters in the affected Polling Units but security men did not allow them to coerce voters as they were casting their ballots.

“With the fresh mandate given to our party at the rerun poll against all odds, it is evident that Nigeria still keep faith with the Tinubu administration and we are assuring them that all the current challenges facing the country will be fixed soonest and the citizenry will be better for it. We are, indeed, grateful to the good people of Saki for standing by their resolve to remain patriotic progressives. We also assure them that President Bola Tinubu, Senator Abdufatai Buhari, Mr Tajudeen  Kareem and Ibrahim Shittu whom they voted for in the last general election on the platform of our great Party (APC) will continue to justify the confidence reposed in them”. Sadare added.

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Politics

Osun Govt Behind Prolonged Judicial Strike – APC Alleges

By Web News 455

By Adenitan Akinola

The Osun State main opposition party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, has alleged the state government of complicity in the continued closure of courts in the state for about two months due to workers’ strikes.

At a Press Conference at its presidential campaign office in Osogbo, the APC alleged that the state executive was secretly behind the plot to prolong the strike because of the failure of its plan to remove the state Chief Judge.

The State Chairman of the party who addressed the Press, Alhaji Tajudeen Lawal described the continued closure of the courts as inhumane and a threat to the security of lives and property.

He said the police cells had become congested while citizens who desired justice and the protection of their rights have become helpless, warning that such a trend could force people to resort to self-help.

Alhaji Lawal also alleged that the ruling PDP government in the state had been unable to account for the huge resources accruing to the state coffers since the removal of the fuel subsidy.

The APC argued that the government white paper removing three traditional rulers in the state from their throne was a mere political tool to witch-hunt the concerned Obas, as it maintained that such action by the Governor was an illegality as the matter subsists in court.

The opposition party however called on the Inspector General of Police to protect its members from the purported assault of the state government.

In a reaction, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Chief Kolapo Alimi described the claim of the APC as noise by the opposition meant to distract the government of Senator Ademola Adeleke.

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Lifestyle

Bodija Explosion: Alli Mourns Victims, Urges Support for Affected Families

By Web News 381

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The senator representing Oyo South Senatorial Constituency at the National Assembly from the All Progressives Congress, APC, Sharafadeen Alli has expressed his deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims affected by the tragic explosion that occurred in the Bodija area of Ibadan on Tuesday night.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Ibadan.

The statement said that the lawmaker was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the devastation caused by this unfortunate incident.

Senator Alli emphasised the need for urgent support and assistance to the affected families during this difficult time. 

He called on relevant government agencies, emergency responders, and community leaders to collaborate in providing immediate relief as well as necessary resources to the victims and their families.

Senator Alli also urged the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of residents in the area.

He emphasised the importance of implementing stringent safety measures and regulations to prevent such incidents and protect the lives and properties of the people.

The lawmaker encouraged the affected families to stay strong and resilient in the face of this tragedy. 

He assured them that he would work tirelessly with relevant authorities to ensure that justice was served and necessary measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Senator Alli called on the entire community to come together in support of the affected families, offering prayers, comfort, and any possible assistance.

He urged everyone to prioritise safety and remain vigilant to prevent any further tragedies. 

The lawmaker said that together, as a united community, they can overcome this difficult time and rebuild stronger than before.

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Lifestyle

Elder Statesman Identifies Crave for Wealth as Bane of Development

By Web News 315

By Adenitan Akinola

Former governor of Osun State, and pioneer chairman, All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Bisi Akande has identified corruption and the lazy attitude of Nigerians as the bane of the nation’s development.

Addressing journalists at his residence in Ila-Orangun, Chief Akande said a large number of Nigerians want wealth and success without work.

Chief Akande explained that this unbridled desire for wealth accounts for the rise in fraudulent practices among citizens resulting in endemic corruption, a cankerworm that had put the country on its knees.

Cue

The former pioneer chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress added that religious organizations have not helped matters as places of worship focused much on prayers for financial miracles and breakthroughs without work.

He argued that the development was worsened by the about thirty years of military rule in Nigeria which destroyed the moral fabric, political and economic progress of the country.

Chief Akande pointed out that the pain being experienced under the current administration were unavoidable consequences of the previous maladministration, stressing that the country must be made to work for the people.

The elder statesman, however, called for attitudinal change, which according to him is cardinal to any desired socio political and economic progress, as no government can any perform magic without disciplined citizens.

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Politics

APC Drags Adeleke to Court over OSIEC Chairman’s Appointment

By Web News 381

By Adenitan Akinola (Osogbo)

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has dragged Governor Ademola Adeleke before a Federal High Court sitting in Osogbo, for allegedly appointing a card-carrying member of his political party as the Chairman of Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSIEC.

An assistant secretary of the party in Osun State, Mr Waheed Adeniran, in an affidavit in support of the originating summons filed by its lawyer, Mr Ayodele Kusamotu, urged the court to set aside the appointment of Mr Hasim Abioye as the OSIEC Chairman.

The suit marked FHC/OS/CS/2/2024 also has the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice as defendants.

Also joined as defendants were, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the Attorney General of Osun State and Commissioner for Justice, the Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, the Osun State House of Assembly, Mr Hasim Akintunde Abioye and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSIEC.

The APC contended that “the nomination and appointment of a partisan person as the Chairman of the state electoral body offends law and will not guarantee credible local government elections in which other political parties are expected to participate”.

The leading opposition party in the state further claimed that “the new Chairman, having been a Card-carrying member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state will not be neutral and impartial in the local government election processes”.

The party sought “a declaration that the 3rd Defendant cannot validly and legally nominate and forward the name of the 7th Defendant as a bonafide member of his registered political party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the 5th and 6th Defendants for screening and confirmation to be appointed by him as the Chairman of the 8th Defendant, Osun State Independent Electoral Commission”.

“An order of perpetual injunction restraining 7th and 8th Defendants or any of their members or agents or officers or any other person or persons acting on their behalf from conducting local government elections into Osun State Local Government Councils, Osun State Local Development Councils, Osun State Local Council Administrative Offices and Osun State Local Council Area Offices until the 7th Defendant is removed from office as the Chairman of the 8th Defendant reconstituted”.

“An order setting aside or nullifying the appointment of the 7th Defendant or removing the 7th Defendant from office as the Chairman of the 8th Defendant”.

“An order of perpetual injunction restraining the 2nd Defendant or any of its officers or agents or any person or persons acting on behalf of the 2nd Defendant from releasing lists of voters or registers of voters or any electoral materials or electoral electronic gadgets or devices to 7th and 8th Defendants or any members or any officers of the 8th Defendant for the purpose of conducting local government elections in Osun State until the 7th Defendant is removed as the Chairman of the 8th Defendant and 8th Defendant is properly re-constituted by the appropriate authorities”.

“General damages of (5,000,000.00) five million naira jointly or severally against the 3rd-8th Defendants in favour of the plaintiff. Cost of Action at (2,000,000.00) two million naira jointly or severally against the 3rd-8th Defendants in favour of the plaintiff”.

It would be recalled that opposition parties in the state have been tackling Governor Adeleke since he announced Mr Hasim Abioye as the Chairman of the Osun Independent Electoral Commission.

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Politics

Supreme Court Reserves Judgment in PDP, APC’s Appeals against Otti

By Web News 407

The Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the appeals by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, against the election of Alex Otti.

The five-man panel led by John Okoro adjourned the matters for judgments after taking arguments from parties involved in the matter.

The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos had dismissed the petitions by the Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate, Okey Ahiwe, and Ikechi Emenike of the APC.

The APC and PDP are asking the apex court to nullify the election of Otti of the Labour Party as Abia State Governor.

Details later.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Lifestyle

NGF, APC, CAN, Others Mourn Akeredolu

By Web News 289

By Iyabo Adebisi/Oluwakayode Banjo

Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has expressed sadness on the death of Ondo State Governor Olurotimi Akeredolu (SAN), describing him as an exceptional statesman who made indelible marks in public service.

The forum commiserates with the Progressives Governors’ Forum, the government and people of Ondo State, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), as well as the immediate family of the late Governor of the Sunshine State.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye described the loss as painful and urged all to take solace in his fine legacies as a gentleman and statesman and prayed to God to repose his soul and look after his family.”

Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday described the death of his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu, as tragic.

Akeredolu succumbed to leukaemia in Lagos on Wednesday. He was 67.

In his condolence message to the acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the family of the deceased and Ondo people, Prince Abiodun described Akeredolu, who until his death was the chairman of the South West Governors Forum, as a dogged fighter throughout his lifetime.

According to him, Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) stood for equity and fairness in the run-up to the 2023 presidential election when he was the chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum.

Prince Abiodun said Akeredolu was a visionary leader with an unwavering dedication to his people and social justice.

Abiodun said: “Akeredolu made an indelible mark on Nigerian politics. From his tenure as the chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association to his role as the chairman of the South West Governors Forum, he continuously championed the cause of justice and the upliftment of his people.

“Known for his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Ondo citizens, Akeredolu spearheaded major initiatives that brought about positive change. Under his leadership, the state witnessed significant advancements in healthcare, infrastructure, and education. His commitment to sustainable development earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and citizens alike.

“As the nation mourns the loss of a formidable leader, Rotimi Akeredolu’s memory will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. His legacy of compassion, justice, and progress will endure, forever reminding Nigerians of the transformative power of dedicated leadership.

“In this time of immense grief, the people of Ondo State must unite, draw strength from their cherished memories of their late governor and resolve to honour his legacy by building upon the foundations he laid, ensuring that his vision for a better and brighter future for Ondo State lives on.”

Members of the Nigeria Political Project and Legal Profession have been reacting to the death of the governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu SAN who passed on in a German hospital. 

Some notable personalities, who spoke with Radio Nigeria Correspondent, Iyabo Adebisi described the death of Governor Akeredolu as unfortunate especially when the country and the Ondo state need him. 

According to the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial district at the National Assembly, Sharafadeen Alli, Governor Akeredolu was a patriotic Nigerian who was passionate about the progress of the country. 

Senator Alli said the late Akeredolu contributed greatly to the legal profession when he was the president Nigeria Bar Association, NBA. 

Also Speaking, a legal icon, Niyi Akintola, SAN, who noted that the late Akeredolu was his colleague and confidant, described him as an ‘Omoluabi’ in the real sense of the Yoruba mantra. 

Mr Akintola, SAN, stated that the deceased believed in justice saying the role he played in the invasion of herdsmen in the Yoruba land and the Owo massacre of hundreds of people where he hailed from could not be forgotten in a hurry. 

In the same vein, Oyo APC has described Akeredolu as a champion of democracy.

The Party said Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s, SAN, death was unfortunate given his contributions to society as it concerns humanity, democracy and good governance.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC commiserated with Mrs Betty Akeredolu as well President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and the good people of Ondo over the transition of Arakunrin Akeredolu who, according to the party, died at a time his services was still needed by his people.

“Arakunrin Akeredolu made a great impact in many ways as he was a dogged fighter, astute legal practitioner and patriotic democrat who would not spare any effort to promote justice and fairness at all times regardless of the risk involved. There is no doubt that he would be sorely missed by all and sundry. Therefore, we pray God to grant him eternal rest and give his family and the good people of the Sunshine State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.” Oyo APC stated.

Also, the Chairman, Ondo State Christian Association of Nigeria, Very Revd. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa has described the death of Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State as a colossal loss to the state and Nigeria as a whole.

A statement from the director of information and communications of the association, Mr Daisi Ajayi said, Fr. Ologunwa expressed shock to have received the sudden news of the death of the Governor.

Fr. Ologunwa described Governor Akeredolu as a great fighter of democracy, and a dedicated and loving father of all.

According to him, the Governor had exhibited several outstanding qualities during his tenure of administration ranging from the establishment of Amotekun security outfit and his stand on the unity of the country.

The chairman affirmed that Akeredolu is well noted for his firmness in decision-making making is usually called, ” Mr Talk and Do” Governor.

He also identified various infrastructural development his administration embarked upon ranging from roads, buildings and other social development across the state.

Fr. Ologunwa said his death will no doubt bring about a vacuum in the state but however optimistic that with God all things are possible.

The chairman condoled with the people of the state and the immediate family of Akeredolu for the irreparable loss of the Governor and prayed to God to grant him eternal rest.

Gov. Akeredolu reportedly died in Lagos on Wednesday following months of intense battle with leukaemia. Until his death, he was serving his second term in Office having won his election and reelection in 2016 and 2020 respectively.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, aged 67 was serving his second time in office before his death. 

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Politics

Oyo APC NASS Caucus Visits National Chairman, Ganduje

By Web News 380

By Oluwakayode Banjo

As part of efforts to foster cohesion and promote unity among members of APC in Oyo State, the State National Assembly caucus on Wednesday, visited the national leadership of the party in Abuja.

This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Akeem Abas, the Special Adviser on Media to Sen. Sharafadeen Alli and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ibadan.

The delegation, led by the three senators, Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North), Sharafadeen Alli (Oyo South) and Yunus Akintunde (Oyo Central) met with the party’s National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje. 

Also on the delegation were Rep. Tajudeen Abisodun, Rep. Lateef Mohammed, Rep. Olamijuwonlo Alao- Akala, Rep. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, Rep. Akeem Adeyemi and Rep. Olafisoye Akinmoyede.

The statement said that the meeting was a proactive approach by the State National Assembly caucus in addressing the challenges and building a united front. 

“This engagement is a significant step in the right direction, as it provided an opportunity for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas,” it said.

It said that the effort was a great step towards building a virile, stronger, and united APC in the state, noting that unity and cohesion among members are essential for party success and effectiveness. 

The statement described the action as 

a clear demonstration of their commitment to working together and strengthening the party’s structure in the state. 

It expressed hope that the engagements would lead to effective strategies, improved decision-making, and the advancement of the party’s objectives in the state.

“The delegation’s presence and engagement with the national leadership will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the party’s activities and overall progress,” it said.

The statement said that the representatives, during the meeting,  expressed commitment to ensuring good governance within their respective communities. 

It said that they emphasised their dedication to serving their constituents and their collaborative efforts for the party’s advancement. 

 The lawmakers absent at the meeting were Rep. Akin Alabi, Rep. Aderemi Oseni and Rep. Musiliu Akinremi.

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Politics

APC Sweeps Ekiti Local Government Election

By Web News 476

By Busuyi Ogidiolu

Candidates of the All Progressives Congress APC have been declared winners of the just concluded Local Government Election in Ekiti State.

The Party won in all the 16 statutory Local Governments, 22 Local Council Development Areas Chairmanship seats and 177 Councillorship seats.

Chairman of the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission, EKSIEC Retired Justice Cornelius Akintayo received the results from returning officers at the Commission’s situation office in Ado Ekiti where winners were announced.

Retired Justice Akintayo noted that eleven political parties including, the Labour Party, Zenith Labour Party, Action Alliance, Action Democratic Congress, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and Peoples Redemption Party, among others participated in the exercise.

He commended the efforts of security operatives, political parties, ad-hoc staff, Journalists and other stakeholders who demonstrated the spirit of patriotism and sportsmanship by ensuring the smooth conduct of the election.

Retired Justice Akintayo also applauded the people of Ekiti State for their cooperation and peaceful conduct which led to the success of the exercise.

According to EKSIEC Chairman, the date for the collection of Certificates of return by the winners will be announced later.

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Governance

Put Masses Interest First, Tinubu Urges APC Governors  

By Web News 350

President Bola Tinubu has advised APC Governors to put the interest of the people first and work for the good of their states.

Receiving outgoing Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, the re-elected Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, and the Governor-elect of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, in Abuja, the President expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the elections, which he described as “free, fair, and peaceful”.

“You worked hard for this victory. I am very proud of you, but the real challenge has only started, and it will stare you in the face. That is the challenge of good governance. Make sure that everyone is carried along. You are now the servants of the people. To God be all the glory for the victories, and may God guide you,” he told them.

“Once the people of Nigeria and their concerns are the focal point of your plans and actions, not only will governance be easier for you, but you will enhance the value of your states and the masses of the people will have new opportunities to grow and enjoy a new standard of living. This must be your driving focus as governors, but especially as governors elected on the platform of our great party.”

He hailed the APC for winning “Two out of three” governorship contests, saying, “[this] is not a bad way to start”, and urged his guests to “focus not on winning the elections alone but on delivering for the people”.

“They (the people) are sovereign, and when we achieve what we promise, voters will respect us,” the President admonished his guests, adding: “We will work with you at the sub-national levels, and we will uphold the strength and superior excellence that is symbolized by the eagle on our coat of arms.”

Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the APC, who led the Governors-elect and other ruling party stalwarts to meet with the President, said the party’s candidates conducted themselves “with integrity” as directed by the President during the elections, and applauded the APC for conceding victory to the opposition in Bayelsa State.

“We lost the election in Bayelsa, and we have conceded in good faith. You directed that the elections should be free, fair, and peaceful, and it was so,” Dr Ganduje told President Tinubu.

Speaking on behalf of the candidates who contested the elections, Governor Uzodinma thanked the President for “providing strong and purposeful leadership” at the centre, which he said “enabled and energised” their campaigns.

“We won because of the leadership you demonstrated. The country was struggling, but the economy has been responding to the reforms and rapid-response strategy you have put in place,” he said.

Abdullah Bello

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Judiciary

Court Reserves Judgement on Adebutu Appeal Case

By Web News 326

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), have urged the Court of Appeal to dismiss the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Ladi Adebutu against the judgment of the Ogun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which affirmed the victory of Prince Abiodun during the March 18 elections.

At the hearing of the appeal by the Appeal Court, sitting in Lagos, Abiodun, APC, and INEC told the 3-man panel of justices, led by Justice Joseph Shagbaor Ikyegh that the appeal by Adebutu and PDP, lacked merit and was ambitious.

The Tribunal had on September 30, dismissed the petitions by Adebutu and his party and affirmed the re-election of Governor Abiodun.

Leading the charge, counsel to first Respondent (INEC), A.J. Owonikoko SAN urged the Court to dismiss the appeal for lacking in merit.

Reacting to the issue of 49,000 disenfranchised voters, raised by the Appellants’ counsel (Chief Chris Uche SAN), Mr Owonikoko referred to paragraphs 4.37 to 4.40 at pages 18 and 19 of his Brief to point out that Appellants only called 48 witnesses. He explained that in cases of disenfranchisement, all the disenfranchised voters must be called as witnesses but Appellants did not do so. He concluded that the Court cannot amplify 48 witnesses to 49,000 witnesses as Appellants want.

He urged the Court to dismiss the appeal

Counsel to the 2nd Respondent (Prince Abiodun), Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN, also identified and adopted his Brief.

The Court of Appeal reserved judgment to a date to be communicated later.

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Politics

Osun APC Condemns Appointment of Adeleke’s Appointee as OSSIEC Head

By Web News 322

By Folake Oye

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Osun State has asked the state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke to reverse the appointment of Mr Hashim Abioye as the Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, without further delay.

Osun APC chairman, Alhaji Tajudeen Lawal, in a statement in Osogbo, demanded the reversal of the appointment

Alhaji Lawal maintained that with the appointment of one of Governor Adeleke appointees as the OSSIEC chairman, the activities of the commission will not be independent.

Mr Abioye, alleged to be a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, was a special adviser to Governor Adeleke on legal matters before the recent appointment.

The appointment was earlier rejected by the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Osun State chapter.

Osun IPAC, in rejecting the appointment, maintained that it is a desecration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

IPAC also added that with Abioye heading OSSIEC, the body cannot conduct a credible election in the state.

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Judiciary

Supreme Court Verdict: Oyo APC Congratulates Tinubu, Shettima

By Web News 437

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The All Progressives Congress APC in Oyo State has described the Thursday verdict of the Supreme Court which gave final validation to the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the February 25, 2023 poll as the best thing to have happened to the nation’s democracy in recent times calling on the Petitioners to join hands with the APC administration in order to move the country forward.

The Apex Court, on Thursday, threw out the appeals of the former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, and former governor of Anambra state, Mr. Peter Obi, against the judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which had earlier validated the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and thus put paid to all issues generated before, during and after the 2023 presidential election.

In a statement issued on Thursday and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC congratulated President Tinubu and his Vice, Senator Kassim Shettima as well as the APC’s national chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, and others who fought spiritedly at the court to safeguard the wishes and aspirations of the majority of Nigerian electorate who freely chose the APC candidate at the poll

“It was known to the global community, including all well-meaning Nigerians, that the candidates of both the PDP and LP were merely chasing shadows as there was no reason for them to contest the results of a free, fair and transparent election conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission in total compliance with all the laws of the land. 

“Now that both Abubakar Atiku and Peter Obi have exhausted all options to upturn the popular mandate freely given to President Bola Tinubu by Nigerians, we are urging them and their supporters to come to term with the reality on ground and establish contact with Mr. President for possible collaboration on the success of the Nigerian Project. 

“It is our humble opinion that all hands should be on deck to support President Tinubu and his team on the task of fixing the country. Our nation is having her own share of global economic instability in addition to some peculiar security challenges among other things and it is when all citizens join hands together to tackle these problems head long that we can achieve meaningful success within the shortest time possible.” Oyo APC stated.

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Politics

Osun Govt. Clears Air on Palliative Intervention Fund

By Web News 455

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Government has debunked claims in a fake news by the state’s All Progressive Congress (APC), clarifying that only two Billion Naira was so far received from the Federal Government for subsidy palliatives while the Seven Billion Naira Federal refund to the state was specifically designated for infrastructure intervention.

In a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Government slammed what it called “deliberate falsehood and misinformation by APC’s operatives who are in disarray over the wonderful performance and transparency of Mr. Governor at the Ipade Imole which was televised live and live streamed across new media platforms.

At the Ipade Imole, Governor Adeleke told the people of the state that the N2 Billion naira released for subsidy palliatives is being disbursed for food palliatives, transport services and refurbishment of health centers with procurement orders, already placed.

On the N7 billion naira federal refund, the Governor explained that it was designated for infrastructure intervention and constitutes less than 20 percent of the total money Osun State Government is committing to infrastructure upgrade.

The Governor further provided details of the proposed infrastructure projects to include dualisation of roads, building of overhead bridges, mass solar lightning of major roads, upgrades of hospitals, water intervention projects and Imole Housing estates, all across the nine federal constituencies.

“This government is committed to transparency and accountability in the spirit of open government and Freedom of Information. Our people understand, appreciate and support Mr. Governor and the good intentions of his administration.

“Governor Adeleke remains a deeply honest, accountable and responsive leader whose preoccupation is to deliver good governance and democratic dividends to the good people of Osun state.”

Politics

Ogun PDP Poised for Appeal after Tribunal’s Verdict

By Web News 395

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ogun State, has advised members to regard the verdict of the State’s Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal as a temporary setback that would be challenged. 

Deputy Governorship Candidate of the PDP, Mr Adekunle Akinlade, who gave the advice in Abeokuta, said the party would proceed to the Court of Appeal, while exploring and deploying the necessary resources towards getting justice.

Speaking through his Media Aide, Mr Adelani Azeez, the PDP Deputy Governorship candidate urged the members to remain calm and take solace in the fact that the Tribunal was the court of first instance, pointing out that the party was blessed with a resolute leader in its flag bearer, Chief Ladi Adebutu.

The Governorship Elections Petition Tribunal had dismissed the petition filed by Chief Ladi Adebutu and the PDP against the election of Governor Dapo Abiodun for lack of merit.

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Politics

Tribunal Affirms Gov. Abiodun’s Victory

By Web News 385

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has affirmed the election of Prince Dapo Abiodun of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the duly elected Governor of the State.

At the end of the proceeding which lasted about 11 hours, the three – member panel, led by Justice Hamidu Kunaza, dismissed the petition of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Chief Ladi Adebutu, challenging the victory of Dapo Abiodun in the March 18, 2023 governorship election.

The PDP and its candidate, Chief Adebutu had petitioned the Tribunal, accusing the INEC, Governor Abiodun and the APC of non compliance with the Electoral Act and corrupt practices during the election, alleging that the governor did not win the majority of votes cast during the election.  

Justice Kunaza who read the lead judgment at about 8.15pm during the Tribunal sitting at Isabo, Abeokuta, held that the petitioners did not successfully prove the allegations of non compliance with the Electoral Act and had not discharged the burden of proof. 

Justice Kunaza maintained that the petitioners failed to prove beyond reasonable doubts, the allegations of non compliance, over voting, disenfranchisement of voters, non qualification of Prince Dapo Abiodun and corrupt practices during the polls.

In separate reactions, Counsels to the APC, Professor Taiwo Osipitan and that of the INEC, Dr Remi Olarubora said the indepth judgement was a landmark and the best history. 

Counsels to the petitioners declined to speak to newsmen as they made their way out of the venue with many party chieftains and supporters while the state deputy Governor, Mrs Noimot Salako – Oyedele who thanked the people for standing firm with the present administration led those who thronged the court in support of Governor Abiodun and the APC. 

Politics

Parties Await Tribunal’s Verdict on Lagos Governorship Poll Monday

By Web News 464

The Lagos State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal will deliver judgment for Lagos State on Monday, September 25, Punch Online reports.

Via a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday, the governorship flag bearer for the Labour Party, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, said that he has been informed that the judgment of the election petition at the tribunal will be delivered on Monday.

He posted, “We have just been informed that judgment on our election petition at the tribunal will be delivered on Monday, the 25th of September.”

On April 11, the Peoples Democratic Party Candidate, Mr Abdul-Azeez Adediran, known as Jandor, and the Labour Party candidate, Rhodes-Vivour, had separately asked the tribunal to nullify governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s re-election and declare them the winners.

Subsequently, on Wednesday, May 24, the tribunal dismissed the petitions filed by the Allied Peoples’ Movement and the Action Peoples Party against the victory of Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, in the March 18 governorship election.

Sanwo-Olu polled 762,134 votes to defeat his closest rival, Rhodes-Vivour, who polled 312,329.

The candidate of the PDP, Adediran, came third with 62,449 votes while the candidate of APM, Funmilayo Kupoluyi, polled 884 and the candidate of APP, Abiola Adeyemi, garnered 259 votes.

The petitions of the APM and APP were dismissed by the Chairman of the three-man Tribunal, Justice Arum Ashom, after the petitioners withdrew them.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Politics

Tribunal Declares Kano APC Guber Candidate Winner, Sacks Gov.

By Web News 365

The Kano State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, on Wednesday, sacked the State governor, Yusuf Abba, of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP.

The tribunal, therefore, declared the All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate, Nasir Gawuna, winner of the March 18 governorship poll.

The three-man panel, led by Justice Oluyemi Akintan-Osadebay, commenced the proceedings virtually a few minutes before 10:00 am and transmitted from Miller Road, Kano venue of the Election Petition Tribunal.

It further withdrew the Certificate of Return presented to Yusuf by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

INEC had declared that Yusuf polled 1,019,602 votes to defeat Gawuna, who scored 890,705 votes.

Punch/Oluwayemisi owonikoko

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TAGS: Adebola Akin

Politics

Osun Govt. Dismisses Allegation of Hoarding Palliative Fund

By Web News 424

By Funmi Adekoya

The Osun State Government has dismissed the allegation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of hoarding the N2billion fund received from the federal government as a mere rhetoric, urging the people of the state to be wary of scheme by the opposition to pitch them against the performing Adeleke administration.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. Kolapo Alimi, the State Government said it was unfortunate that the APC is counting on sheer misinformation to warm itself back into the heart of the people following its abysmal performance in government that is responsible for the resounding rejections suffered at polls from Osun people.

Mr. Alimi maintained that the Adeleke administration’s resolve to transparency and judiciously administering any resources in its possession unlike the experience with the immediate past APC government, assuring Osun people that the N2bn is safe and will be applied in a transparent manner to their benefits.

“For the APC to begin to peddle outrageous claims that this government is hoarding N2bn fund received from the FG is a clear sign of how low it has sunk. The APC has become consistent in peddling wild theories and cooking tales just to create a false impression about the Adeleke administration in the minds of Osun people.

“Osun people will note that the Osun State Government announced the receipt of the N2bn fund from FG, but to guide against the kind of experience of the abuse that featured prominently in the past, the Adeleke administration is carefully thinking through utilization of the fund especially when it is not a free gift as Osun APC erroneously tried to paint.

The state government, therefore, called on Osun people to reject the antics of the APC as it was never borne out of genuine concern for their welfare, but mere political pandering adding that the Adeleke administration understands the tough situation that the removal of fuel subsidy imposed on them and is working within available resources to cushion the impact.

Politics

Oyo APC, Abiodun  Congratulate  Tinubu on Victory at Tribunal

By Web News 447

By Oluwakayode Banjo/Bolanle Adesida

The All Progressives Congress APC in Oyo State has expressed delight at  Wednesday’s judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which validated the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the poll held on February 25, 2023.

The party described the verdict as an indication that the nation’s democracy was moving in the right direction with a prospect of meeting up with the global standard.

A 5-man panel of judges led by Justice Haruna Tsammani had ruled that various petitions from former vice president and the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and former governor of Anambra State, who was also the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) at the 2023 general election as well as that of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) lacked merit, and thereby affirmed the APC presidential candidate, Tinubu, as validly elected and sworn-in as the President of Nigeria.

Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC posited that the Judiciary arm of government had again proved that it was ready to play its role as a reliable custodian of justice and the rule of law that is always ready to safeguard democracy and also serve justice to all without fear or favour.

“As active contributors to the transparent processes that produced President Bola Tinubu as the candidate of our great and the coulorful electioneering which had issue-based campaigns as its nucleus as well as his electoral victory on February 25, 2023, we had no doubt in our mind that challenging Tinubu’s mandate in court were only chasing shadows. We are indeed glad that the court did justice to the matter in the face of blackmail, propaganda, and threats of harassment.

“While we are using this opportunity to congratulate our dear leader, President Bola Tinubu, and the leadership of our great Party on this hard-won victory yet again, we urge Mr. President to forge ahead in his efforts aimed at uniting Nigeria and also reposition the country to reclaim its pride of place in the global community. The present administration cannot afford to lose focus on the mission to fix all the key sectors of the economy, power, security, health, agriculture, ICT among others and it is on this premise that we call on all patriots, including members of the opposition, to join hands with President Tinubu to move the nation forward.” Oyo APC stated.

In a similar development, Oyo APC has congratulated its National Assembly members who have had their electoral victory upheld by the various tribunals.

“It is a thing of joy that the mandates given Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari and Sen. Sarafadeen Alli as well as Hon. Akin Alabi, Hon. Olaide Akinremi, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi and Hon. Lateef Muhammeda by the good people of their Senatorial districts and constituencies respectively have been affirmed by the courts as this is an eloquent testimony that the Judiciary remains the last hope of the common man,” APC concluded.

Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has congratulated President Bola Tinubu and Vice President, Kashim Shettima on their resounding victory at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

In a statement in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun said the tribunal’s verdict was an affirmation of the trust reposed in the President by Nigerians as shown in the outcome of the presidential election.

The Governor said that the tribunal’s ruling that President Tinubu was duly elected as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission 

was a further testament to the fact that the judiciary is the last hope of the people.

He described the judgment as sound, detailed and comprehensive, noting that the judges displayed 

unmatched courage in the discharge of their duties.

The Tribunal, in a unanimous decision, threw out the petitions filed by the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi and his Peoples Democratic Party PDP counterpart  Atiku Abubakar.

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Politics

Osun APC Expels Eighty-Four Members

By Web News 383

By Adenitan Akinola 

The All Progressives Congress, APC in Osun State has expelled 84 of its members across various local governments of the state for anti party activities.

In a statement by the state Chairman of the party, Chief Tajudeem Lawal, the APC said the step became necessary to ensure discipline among members and to ensure the party’s philosophy was not compromised.

According to Chief Lawal, the disciplinary process was democratic as the affected party members were investigated and invited to defend themselves.

“Following complaints of anti-party activities, the State Executive Committee of the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) constituted a Disciplinary Committee to investigate the allegations against some members.

This disciplinary measure came in response to the allegations of misconduct and actions that embarrassed and brought the party to disrepute.

The Disciplinary Committee undertook a thorough and impartial review of the allegations and the findings were carefully deliberated upon by the State Executive Committee.” The statement reads.

The affected members included Mr Biyi Odunlade who is already serving as a state Commissioner in the present PDP administration in the state, as well as former Secretary of the APC, Chief Rasak Saninsile who was appointed as the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission by the PDP administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke,but rejected it.

The statement however calls on party members to remained united and work in the best interest of the APC.

“As we move forward, we enjoin our members to remain focused on our goals and continue working together to serve the interests of our constituents and our State.

 Our commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to our party’s core values remains unwavering.”

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