₦airaland Forum

PRA Congratulates Abdulaziz Yari on Appointment as APC Presidential Campaign DG, Pledges Grassroots Support for Renewed Hope





The Progressive Redemption Alliance (PRA) has warmly congratulated Distinguished Senator Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari on his well-deserved appointment as Director-General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general elections.



In a statement issued by its Convener, Comrade Olajide Wolimoh, the Alliance described the appointment as a strategic masterstroke that reflects the APC leadership’s clear understanding of the demands of a high-stakes national campaign.



Wolimoh noted that Senator Yari brings to the role a rare combination of executive experience, legislative exposure and deep grassroots political understanding. As a former Governor of Zamfara State and a serving Senator, Yari has demonstrated the capacity to mobilise diverse stakeholders, manage complex political structures and deliver results under pressure.



“The choice of Senator Abdulaziz Yari as Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council is both timely and inspiring,” Wolimoh stated. “He is a tested mobiliser, a bridge-builder and a politician who understands the pulse of the Nigerian electorate across regions. His appointment sends a strong signal that the APC is assembling a competent, experienced and results-oriented team to prosecute the 2027 campaign.”



The PRA Convener also extended warm congratulations to other members of the newly constituted Presidential Campaign Council, describing them as capable hands whose collective experience will enrich the campaign architecture.



Positioning the Progressive Redemption Alliance, Wolimoh emphasised that the PRA is a socio-political movement rooted in the grassroots and driven by organic members who remain committed to progressive and people-centred values. The Alliance, he explained, draws from the redeeming ideals of social justice and mass empowerment historically associated with progressive politics, while fully embracing the practical opportunities offered by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.



“The PRA is not a gathering of political spectators. We are a formation with real structures and loyal followership across several states. Our members believe in politics that serves the ordinary people. We therefore look forward to working closely with the Presidential Campaign Council under the leadership of Senator Yari to deepen grassroots mobilisation, expand the reach of the Renewed Hope message, and contribute meaningfully to the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and victory for the APC at all levels in 2027,” Wolimoh declared.



He expressed confidence that with disciplined coordination, inclusive engagement and effective communication of the administration’s achievements and vision, the campaign would successfully connect with Nigerians and secure a decisive mandate for continuity and progress.



The Progressive Redemption Alliance wished Senator Yari and the entire campaign team wisdom, strength and resounding success in the important national assignment.

'Don't Wipe Us Off the Map' — Libegun Aregbe Community Calls on Ogun Government to Halt Alleged Illegal Land Takeover





By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo





Residents and indigenous people of Libegun Aregbe community in Ogun State have called on the state Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, to urgently intervene over what they described as an alleged illegal encroachment on their ancestral land by the Ogun State Ministry of Housing.

The residents raised the alarm on Sunday, August 23, 2026, alleging that the Ministry of Housing had commenced moves to take over the remaining portion of land left for the survival and expansion of the more than 400-year-old community.

According to the community leaders, the fresh development comes after the state government allegedly took over more than 100 hectares of Libegun Aregbe land in 2020 for a housing development project.

The residents claimed that, although the land taken in 2020 was used for the construction of estates which are now being sold to interested buyers, the community had accepted the acquisition because of its support for development under the administration of Governor Abiodun.

However, the community is now expressing concern over what it described as a fresh attempt to extend the takeover into the remaining land available to the indigenous people.

Speaking with our correspondent, the Baale of Libegun Aregbe, Chief John Akinsola, said the state government allegedly entered the community's land in 2020 without prior dialogue with him or the people of the village.

According to him, over 100 hectares of land were taken over by the government on the grounds that the land had been acquired for development.


Chief Akinsola said the community did not resist the process because its people believed in the development agenda of the Ogun State Government.

He explained that the community's land has existed for more than 400 years and urged the state government to protect the interests and survival of the indigenous people.

The traditional leader therefore appealed to Governor Abiodun to intervene in the matter and call the Commissioner for Housing and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry to order over the alleged fresh encroachment.

«








“In the year 2020, the state government came into our land without any dialogue with the Baale and the people of the village. They took over more than 100 hectares of our land, claiming it was an acquisition.»

«“We accepted the process because we support development in Ogun State under the administration of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON. But this land has been in existence for over 400 years.»

«“We are now appealing to the state government to intervene and call the Commissioner for Housing and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry to order. The people of Libegun Aregbe also deserve to survive,” the Baale said.»

Also speaking, the President of the Indigenous People of Libegun Aregbe, Engr. Olawale Julius Olumuyiwa, described the alleged fresh invasion as unacceptable and called for an immediate intervention by the state government.

Olawale said that after the alleged takeover of 100 hectares of the community's land in 2020, a fence was erected to mark the boundary of the acquired area, while the remaining land was left for the expansion and survival of the village.

He said the community was therefore surprised when a bulldozer was allegedly brought into the area on the night of Saturday, August 22, 2026, raising fears among residents that a fresh land-clearing operation would commence on Sunday.

The community leader alleged that the new development was aimed at taking over the remaining land of the village.

«“We are asking, in a civilised country like Nigeria, how can government invade a village land without any dialogue with the Baale and the indigenous people?»

«“In 2020, they took over 100 hectares and erected a fence as the boundary. The remaining land was left as an extension for our village to survive., They invaded our lands without adequate compensation, they erected boreholes and refused to give the village water, they brought transformers to their estate but refused to give the village electricity, no streetlights, nothing....»

«“To our surprise, a bulldozer was brought in last night, August 22, and we believe the invasion was meant to commence today, Sunday, August 23, 2026.»

«“We, the indigenous people of Libegun Aregbe, condemn this development and call on the Ogun State Government, under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, to urgently intervene in what we consider an illegal invasion of our remaining land,” Olumuyiwa stated.»

Another resident and indigenous stakeholder, Mr. Haruna Ali Adele, warned that the alleged encroachment could lead to the eventual extinction of the community if the remaining portion of land was taken over.

According to him, the extension which the government is allegedly seeking to acquire is the only remaining land available for the future growth and survival of Libegun Aregbe village.

He therefore called for a quick and decisive intervention from Governor Abiodun to prevent further escalation of the crisis.

«“If the remaining extension of our land is taken away, it could mean the permanent end of Libegun Aregbe village. The land they now want to encroach upon is what remains for our people to live and expand.»

«“We need urgent intervention from the state government to stop this alleged illegal invasion before it becomes too late,” Adele said.»

The residents collectively appealed to Governor Abiodun, whom they described as a leader committed to peace and development, to personally look into the matter and ensure that the concerns of the indigenous people are addressed.

They maintained that while the community supports infrastructural and housing development across Ogun State, such development should not come at the expense of the continued existence and survival of Libegun Aregbe and its indigenous people.

As of the time of filing this report, the Ogun State Ministry of Housing had not issued a public response to the allegations by the community.

The residents are therefore calling for an urgent dialogue between the Ogun State Government, the Ministry of Housing, the Baale and the indigenous people of Libegun Aregbe to prevent further tension and find a peaceful resolution to the land dispute.

PBAT, SOUTH-WEST IS DEVELOPING CRACKS BECAUSE HOME IS WHERE THE BATTLE MAY BEGIN — SOUTH-WEST IS SLIPPING! — FIX HOME BEFORE 2027!







President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may need to urgently look inward. His political grip on the South-West appears to be facing serious pressure, especially in APC-controlled states. The unresolved fallout from the party’s internal electoral processes is creating cracks that could become costly if not addressed quickly.



ONDO: The state appears divided between two major political camps — the Governor’s structure, which feels disadvantaged by the Abuja list, and the camp associated with the Honourable Minister of Interior. A divided APC cannot afford to underestimate a determined opposition.



OYO: APC is already dealing with three strong political tendencies — Adelabu, Teslim Folarin and the party’s candidate structure. Meanwhile, Governor Makinde is projecting the APM, adding another dimension to the contest. Then comes Senator Rilwan Adesoji Akanbi, the force behind SWAGA and a political institution in his own right, whose grievances over how his structure has been treated cannot simply be ignored. With all these interests, how can a divided house comfortably confront a sitting opposition governor determined to produce his successor?



EKITI: The wounds from the last primaries remain largely unhealed. Strong internal grievances persist, with no convincing reconciliation mechanism capable of bringing the different camps together. The danger is allowing yesterday’s primary battles to become tomorrow’s electoral losses.



OGUN: Leadership interests and the perception of political monopoly continue to create internal divisions. APC needs unity, not competing power centres.



LAGOS: The choice of a preferred governorship candidate over other political gladiators, without sufficient consultation with all stakeholders, has the potential to create another fault line. Lagos may be APC’s strongest political fortress, but even fortresses require careful management.



OSUN: The warning here is already loud. The opposition has taken the state, and APC’s presidential performance there has previously exposed the party’s vulnerability. Add an aggrieved Iyiola Omisore and his political structure to the equation, and the situation deserves serious attention.



THE MESSAGE TO PBAT IS SIMPLE: ACT NOW!



The South-West should not be treated as automatic territory. Political loyalty must be managed, stakeholders must be respected, and grievances must be resolved before they become electoral weapons.



Sir, the house is beginning to smell smoke. 🔥



You may still have the opportunity to put out the fire — but waiting until 2027 may be waiting too late.



Secure the HOME FRONT before facing the battlefield. 2027 will not be won by Abuja calculations alone.

Ojaekomo Family again Raises Alarm Over Alleged Attacks on Lagos-Allocated Land, by thugs led by Aare Bashir Fakorede, Calls for Police Intervention.









The Center for Public Accountability and Social Well-Being (CPASW) has called on security agencies and the Lagos State Government to urgently intervene in what it described as escalating violence and alleged attacks on the Ojaekomo Family and its development partner, Shaffykay & Co. Property Limited, over land allocated by the Lagos State Government in Sapata Village, Eti-Osa Local Government Area.



The group, which spoke on behalf of the Ojaekomo Family, alleged that the disputed property had been repeatedly attacked in the past week by persons allegedly acting on the instructions of Bashiru Fakorede.



According to the organisation, members of the Ojaekomo Family and Shaffykay & Co. had also been arrested and detained on what it described as “trumped-up” allegations involving firearms.



The group alleged that on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, individuals it identified as Fakorede’s associates invaded the property alongside some police officers from the Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) of the Lagos State Police Command and arrested members of the family.



It further alleged that firearms were subsequently produced at the police command and attributed to the arrested persons, but said the allegation was challenged following the intervention of a senior police officer familiar with Fakorede’s alleged antecedents.



The organisation also alleged that on Saturday, August 15, Fakorede’s associates attacked the property and demolished buildings belonging to the Ojaekomo Family.



“These acts targeted at the security of lives and property, and the disregard for governmental authority, are condemnable,” the group said, urging the police and Lagos State Government to take immediate steps to restore law and order.



The CPASW also raised concerns over what it described as alleged attempts to use police intervention to undermine existing governmental decisions concerning the property.



It disputed claims in a purported statement that the land allocated to the Ojaekomo Family by the Lagos State Government had been vacated by a judgment of the Lagos State High Court.



The organisation argued that the court proceedings cited did not invalidate the original Lagos State allocation, adding that the Ojaekomo Family had appealed a ruling affecting the parties' interests and had filed an application for a stay of execution.



Citing previous judicial decisions, including Ezenwo v. Festus (No. 1) and Ezegbu v. F.A.T.B., the group maintained that parties involved in litigation should not take actions capable of frustrating the court's jurisdiction while applications relating to the execution of judgments are pending.



The organisation said it had also received information suggesting that violence around the property could escalate further, potentially resulting in loss of lives.



“Because of the seriousness of this information, the Ojaekomo Family are crying for help,” it said, adding that the information had been forwarded to relevant security authorities.



The CPASW called on the Inspector-General of Police, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Lagos State Governor, Attorney-General of Lagos State and other relevant agencies to act immediately.



It specifically demanded adequate security around the disputed property to protect lives and prevent further destruction of property.



The group also called for an investigation into the alleged forcible entry, destruction of buildings, intimidation and mobilisation of persons onto the property.



It further demanded an investigation into the alleged withdrawal of security personnel previously deployed to maintain peace in the area and the circumstances surrounding their subsequent deployment.



The organisation also urged security agencies to investigate the activities and alleged role of Fakorede and other individuals involved in the dispute, particularly where their actions could threaten public peace.



The group stressed that the Ojaekomo Family was not opposed to litigation and would continue to pursue its rights through lawful channels.



“The Ojaekomo Family is not afraid of litigation. It is already participating in litigation. It will obey lawful orders of the courts,” the organisation said.



It added that the family was prepared to submit its documents to government agencies and present evidence to the police where necessary.



“What it will not quietly accept is any attempt to replace the rule of law with intimidation or force,” it said.



The organisation maintained that the Lagos State Government had made documented decisions concerning the land and that the affected interests had also been involved in proceedings before the Lagos State House of Assembly.



It argued that anyone challenging the government's actions should use the legal mechanisms available under Nigerian law rather than resort to force.



“What Nigerian law does not provide is a private right to seize land by force,” the group said.



The organisation urged the security agencies to take preventive action before the situation deteriorates further.



“The time for preventive action is now,” it said, calling for immediate steps to prevent further violence and ensure that the dispute is resolved within the framework of the law.

YAYI Moves to End Decades of Neglect as Ode-Lemo Road Gets Major Reconstruction

For decades, residents and communities along the Ode-Lemo axis of Ogun State have endured the consequences of a road infrastructure that had remained neglected, deteriorating and increasingly difficult to navigate.

The situation, according to residents of the area, affected commercial activities, transportation and the general quality of life of people living and doing business within the community.

That narrative has, however, begun to change with the construction of the Ode-Lemo Road by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Senator Adeola Olamilekan Solomon, popularly known as YAYI.

The intervention has attracted attention across the community, particularly because of the long-standing demand for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the road.

The road project is being presented as part of YAYI's commitment to addressing infrastructure deficits and improving connectivity across communities in Ogun State.

For residents who have had to contend with the consequences of the road's poor condition for years, the construction represents more than an infrastructure project. It is seen as a development capable of opening up the area to greater economic activities and easing the movement of people and goods.
























A Road With Deep Community Importance
The Ode-Lemo Road is important to the residents and businesses that depend on it for daily movement. Like many roads serving rapidly developing communities, its condition has implications beyond transportation.

Poor road infrastructure can increase travel time, raise vehicle maintenance costs, discourage investment and make it more difficult for traders, farmers, artisans and other residents to move their goods and services.

The renewed attention to the road has therefore generated excitement among members of the community, who have long looked forward to a lasting solution.

Residents are particularly interested in the quality and durability of the project, hoping that the new road will provide a sustainable solution rather than a temporary intervention.

YAYI's Infrastructure Agenda
The project also adds to the growing conversation around infrastructure and development as Ogun State gradually expands its urban and industrial footprint.

Ogun, with its strategic proximity to Lagos and its growing industrial and residential communities, has witnessed increased demand for roads capable of supporting economic expansion.

Against this backdrop, advocates of the Ode-Lemo intervention argue that fixing neglected roads at the grassroots level is just as important as major highway projects because local roads serve as the direct link between residents, markets, schools, workplaces and major transportation corridors.

YAYI, who is seeking to lead Ogun State under the APC platform, has continued to position infrastructure development as an important component of his political message.

The Ode-Lemo project therefore carries both developmental and political significance, coming at a time when attention is increasingly focused on the performance records and development plans of politicians preparing for the next electoral cycle.

Residents Expect More
While the construction has been welcomed by residents, expectations are also high.

Community members want the project completed to a standard that will withstand heavy usage and changing weather conditions. They also expect complementary infrastructure, including proper drainage and maintenance, to be given adequate attention so that the road can continue to serve the community for many years.

For many residents, the real test will ultimately be the long-term impact of the project on their daily lives.

A functional Ode-Lemo Road could improve mobility, reduce transportation difficulties, stimulate businesses and make the community more attractive to investors and property developers.

It could also strengthen connections between neighbouring communities and improve access to major commercial centres.

From Neglect to Development
The story of the Ode-Lemo Road is, in many ways, a reflection of the broader infrastructure challenges confronting fast-growing communities across Ogun State.

As population increases and new residential and commercial developments emerge, roads that were once adequate for small communities can quickly become overwhelmed.

The reconstruction of the Ode-Lemo Road is consequently being viewed by supporters of the project as an opportunity to reverse years of infrastructural neglect and give residents a road capable of supporting the area's present and future needs.

For YAYI, the project provides another platform to demonstrate his stated commitment to grassroots development.

For the people of Ode-Lemo, however, the significance is much more immediate: a road they have waited years to see improved is finally receiving attention.

And as construction progresses, residents will be watching closely, hoping that the project will mark the beginning of a new chapter—one in which neglected community infrastructure receives the attention required to support economic growth and improve the lives of ordinary people.

From a road associated with years of neglect to a project offering renewed hope, the Ode-Lemo intervention has become a significant talking point in the community and another test of YAYI's promise of development-driven leadership.

Judge Slams “Wanted” Tag on Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi as Unlawful, Orders Police Retraction and Public Apology





The High Court of Lagos has delivered a scathing judgment against the Nigeria Police, declaring the “wanted” declaration issued against Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi by Jimoh Moshood unlawful and a violation of established legal procedures.



In a judgment delivered on Friday, August 7, 2026, in Suit No. ID/21447MFHR/2026, Justice Lawal Alebiosu condemned the police action as a clear affront to extant laws governing criminal justice administration. The court held that the issuance of a public summons or “wanted” declaration without prior leave of court is illegal and constitutes a breach of due process.



Justice Alebiosu further criticized the conduct of the police, describing it as a blatant disregard for the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice framework. The court consequently ordered the immediate retraction of the “wanted” notice and directed the police to issue a public apology to the Applicant.



In addition to nullifying the declaration, the court granted several consequential reliefs, including a declaration that the allegation—made during a press conference—that Akanbi sponsored multiple murders amounted to an unlawful media trial. The court also issued an order restraining the police from further parading, portraying, or publishing the Applicant as a criminal suspect in relation to the alleged offences.



Furthermore, a perpetual injunction was granted, barring the police from any further harassment or intimidation of Akanbi.



The ruling comes amid heightened public interest and controversy surrounding the case, particularly on social media, where widespread speculation has trailed the allegations. Many commentators have suggested the possibility of a broader conspiracy linked to an underlying land dispute—claims that have further fueled debate over the conduct of law enforcement authorities.



The judgment is expected to have significant implications for police procedure and the protection of fundamental rights, especially in relation to public declarations and media engagement in criminal matters.

Aare Bashir Fakorede again finger in a land-grabbing plot against people of Ojaekomo despite Court orders



The Ojaekomo Family of Sapata Village, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, has raised the alarm over an alleged attempt to forcibly take over land allocated to it by the Lagos State Government.



The family, through the Centre for Accountability and Social Well Being (CASW), also called on the Inspector-General of Police, Lagos State Government, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies to prevent possible violence and investigate the activities of Bashiru Fakorede and others allegedly acting in connection with competing interests in the disputed property.



Addressing journalists at press briefing, Mariam Adekoya and Bolaji Arokoyo, who spoke on behalf of CASW, the group said the dispute had gone beyond an ordinary land disagreement and had become a matter concerning public safety, respect for government decisions and the rule of law.



According to the group, Fakorede had been repeatedly sighted on the disputed property in circumstances connected with the ongoing dispute, adding that it was in possession of evidence which, in its view, suggested that he was acting in furtherance of the interests of the Ojomu Family.



It, however, stressed that it was not asking the public or the media to convict Fakorede of any criminal offence, but urged the relevant authorities to investigate his activities and the interests he allegedly represents.



The group said its concerns were heightened by information suggesting that some persons might exploit the recent withdrawal of security personnel from the property to interfere with the Ojaekomo Family's possession.











It warned that no individual, family, traditional institution or political actor had the right to use force or intimidation to determine ownership of land outside the processes established by law.



Giving the history of the disputed property, CASW said the Ojaekomo people had occupied the Sapata Ojuokun area for generations and that the Lagos State Government, on November 13, 2015, granted the Ojaekomo Community an excision covering 60 hectares of wetland under Survey Plan No. LS/D/LA/3834.



It said subsequent disagreements involving the Ojomu Family led to the matter being presented before the Lagos State House of Assembly, where relevant interests, including representatives of the Ojomu Family, participated in the process.



The group said the House of Assembly subsequently passed a resolution dated August 3, 2023, referenced LSHA/LM/C/50/VOL.II/93, apportioning the 60 hectares between the two families.



Under the resolution, 32.42 hectares, representing 54 per cent, were allocated to the Ojomu Royal Family, while 27.65 hectares, representing 46 per cent, were allocated to the Ojaekomo Family.



CASW said the Lagos State Government subsequently implemented the decision and caused separate survey plans to be prepared for the respective portions.



It identified Survey Plan No. LS/D/LA8451/B as covering approximately 27.65 hectares allocated to the Ojaekomo Family.



On the ongoing litigation, the group said aspects of the dispute had been before the courts, noting that a consent judgment previously obtained had subsequently been set aside following an application by persons who were not parties to the original proceedings.



It added that the decision was currently being challenged through the appropriate appellate process.



CASW said it would not attempt to determine the merits of the appeal through the media, stressing that the Court of Appeal remained the appropriate forum to resolve the legal issues.



However, it maintained that the existence of litigation could not be used as a justification for invading the property, mobilising people onto the land, destroying property, threatening occupants or attempting to create possession through force.



The group urged anybody who believed that the government's allocation or subsequent actions concerning the property were unlawful to seek redress through the courts.



It also expressed concern over the withdrawal of Police and NSCDC personnel previously deployed around the property, saying the security presence had become necessary following reported incidents and threats.



CASW called on the relevant authorities to investigate who requested the withdrawal of the security personnel, the representations made before the decision and the security assessment that preceded it.



It also asked the authorities to establish whether persons asserting competing interests in the property were directly or indirectly involved in representations concerning the withdrawal.



The group further disclosed that it had received information suggesting that attempts could be made to provoke violence on or around the property and subsequently manipulate the circumstances against those protecting or occupying the land.



It said the information would be submitted to the appropriate security authorities, stressing that its decision to make the warning public was aimed at preventing violence rather than attributing criminal acts to any individual without investigation.



CASW consequently called on the Inspector-General of Police, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, NSCDC Commandant-General, Lagos State Governor, Attorney-General of Lagos State and other relevant agencies to take immediate preventive measures.



Among its demands were adequate security around the disputed property, investigation of any planned forcible entry, destruction or intimidation, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of security personnel.



It also urged the authorities to investigate the activities and role of Fakorede and others allegedly acting in furtherance of competing interests, particularly where such activities could threaten public peace.



The group further called on the authorities to warn all parties, including the Ojaekomo and Ojomu families, their agents, supporters and representatives, against resorting to self-help while legal and administrative remedies remained available.



CASW said the Ojaekomo Family was prepared to participate in litigation, obey lawful court orders and submit relevant documents and evidence to government agencies and security authorities.



It said the family would, however, not accept any attempt to replace the rule of law with intimidation or force.



“This is not a declaration of war. It is a demand for the rule of law,” the group said, urging security agencies to act before violence occurs rather than after lives may have been lost. The time for preventive action is now.”

Ajiran Murder Trial: Group Defends Calls for Independent Scrutiny, Rejects Claims of Media Interference






The Centre for Citizens Right Protection (CCRP) has defended its calls for an independent review of the investigation into the Ajiran murder case, insisting that demands for transparency and accountability should not be misconstrued as an attempt to interfere with judicial proceedings.

The group was reacting to a statement by the Coalition of Civil Rights Organisations for Good Governance, which backed the Nigeria Police Force's handling of the case and cautioned against what it described as media interference.

In a statement signed by its Convener, Abe Emmanuel Kolawole, the CCRP said it respects the constitutional right of individuals and organisations to express opinions on matters of public interest but rejected suggestions that those seeking greater scrutiny of the investigation were attempting to influence the courts.

According to the organisation, it has never advocated a media trial or encouraged the public to usurp the role of the judiciary.

"Our consistent position has been that allegations surrounding the investigation deserve independent scrutiny because justice must not only be done but must also be seen to have been done," the statement said.

The CCRP argued that demanding transparency, accountability and an impartial investigation does not amount to an attack on the Nigeria Police Force but is instead a constitutional right and a key component of democratic governance.

It also maintained that portraying legitimate public concerns as media interference ignores the role civil society has played in promoting reforms within Nigeria's criminal justice system.

The organisation stressed that while every suspect, including police officers, is entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court, citizens also have the right to seek accountability from public institutions and request independent reviews where necessary.

"It is therefore misleading to suggest that calls for an independent review of investigative procedures amount to an attempt to influence judicial proceedings," the statement added, noting that courts determine guilt or innocence based on evidence presented before them, while citizens are entitled to question whether investigations have been conducted fairly and transparently.

The CCRP further stated that its previous interventions had focused solely on strengthening public confidence in the outcome of the case through an impartial assessment of concerns surrounding the investigation, rather than prejudicing either the prosecution or the defence.

On the issue of leaked investigative materials, the organisation said it supports lawful efforts to determine how confidential documents entered the public domain but cautioned against allowing the controversy over the leaks to overshadow broader concerns about the investigation itself.

The group called on the Inspector-General of Police and relevant oversight institutions to demonstrate fairness, professionalism and institutional independence by addressing all concerns objectively and in accordance with the law.

Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional advocacy, the CCRP said it would continue to pursue justice through lawful and peaceful means while promoting a criminal justice system anchored on transparency, fairness and accountability.

CSO, people of Ajiran Petitions Lagos Chief Judge, Seeks Reassignment of Akanbi's Case Over Fair Trial Concerns









The Centre for Citizens Right's Protection (CCRP) and the people of Ajiran has petitioned the Chief Judge of the High Court of Lagos State, urging the reassignment of the criminal case involving Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi from the court of Justice A.T. Muyideen, citing concerns over the conduct of the proceedings and the need to preserve public confidence in the administration of justice.



In a petition dated August 3, 2026, and signed by the group's President and Executive Director, Abe Emmanuel Kolawole, the civil society organisation said its intervention was aimed at safeguarding constitutional guarantees of fair hearing, due process and judicial impartiality rather than interfering with the independence of the judiciary.



The petition follows an earlier complaint submitted on June 29, 2026, in which the organisation had raised concerns about the handling of the case. According to the group, the Chief Judge's office had responded by informing it that the matter had been investigated, Justice Muyideen was exonerated, and assurances were given that the defendant would receive a fair and impartial trial.



However, the organisation said subsequent developments had prompted it to return with fresh concerns.

















The CCRP questioned the circumstances surrounding the remand of Akanbi on June 25, 2026, arguing that the defendant was ordered into the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service before the court had formally assumed jurisdiction by taking his plea.



The group also expressed concern over proceedings on July 3, 2026, when the defendant, whom it said was brought to court in a wheelchair due to an alleged critical medical condition, was formally arraigned.



According to the petition, rather than determine the pending bail application or give it accelerated consideration in view of the defendant's health, the court adjourned the matter until November 2026 for trial and hearing of all pending applications while directing that the defendant be returned to hospital.



The organisation and Ajiran people further stated that an attempt to secure an accelerated hearing before the Lagos State Vacation Court was unsuccessful because Justice O.O. Martins reportedly declined to entertain the application after noting that all pending applications had already been adjourned until November by Justice Muyideen.



It argued that the sequence of events had generated public concern over whether the defendant's constitutional rights to liberty, fair hearing and timely determination of his bail application were receiving adequate judicial consideration.



While stressing that it was not seeking to influence the outcome of the criminal proceedings, the group maintained that justice must not only be done but also be seen to be done, especially in matters attracting public attention.



Among its requests, the CCRP asked the Chief Judge to reassign the case to another judge of the Lagos State High Court, review the circumstances that led to the Vacation Court's refusal to entertain the bail application, and ensure the expeditious hearing of the pending bail application, particularly in view of the defendant's reported medical condition.



The organisation also called for an independent administrative review of the proceedings to determine whether they had consistently reflected the constitutional guarantees of fair hearing, judicial impartiality and due process.



The petition urged the Chief Judge to treat the matter with urgency in the interest of justice, the integrity of the judiciary and public confidence in the judicial system.

Group Asks Police to Declare Fakorede, Babajide Akinloye Wanted Over Ajiran Killings









The Centre for Citizens Right Protection (CCRP) has called on the Nigeria Police Force to declare Bashir Fakorede and Babajide Akinloye wanted over their alleged roles in the Ajiran community killings in Lagos State, while demanding an independent review of the police investigation into the case.



The group made the demand during a press briefing in Lagos, where its representatives, Abe Emmanuel Kolawole and Isijola Samuel, urged the Inspector-General of Police to constitute an independent panel to re-examine the investigation, alleging that critical aspects of the case had not been thoroughly investigated.



The CCRP also criticised what it described as a media campaign organised by individuals defending the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Moshood Jimoh, over his role in the prosecution of Alhaji Tajudeen Akanbi.



According to the organisation, the press conference held in support of the senior police officer failed to address the substantive concerns raised by civil society organisations regarding the conduct of the investigation and prosecution.



The group said its concerns were not about the sequence of police postings or which officer served as Commissioner of Police during earlier investigations, but about what it described as unanswered questions surrounding the handling of the Ajiran killings case.



It questioned why, in its view, police investigators had focused on prosecuting Akanbi while other individuals whose names had allegedly surfaced in connection with the case had not been subjected to similar scrutiny.











The organisation specifically called for transparent investigations into allegations involving Bashir Fakorede and Babajide Akinloye, as well as other persons whose names it claimed had repeatedly featured in discussions surrounding the incident.



"The Nigerian public deserves factual answers, not sponsored press conferences or attempts to intimidate citizens demanding accountability," the group said.



The CCRP argued that public confidence in criminal investigations could only be strengthened through transparency, impartiality and the equal application of the law.



It maintained that if Alhaji Tajudeen Akanbi has a case to answer, the courts should determine his culpability based on credible evidence, but insisted that the same standard should apply to every other individual whose alleged involvement has been brought to the attention of investigators.



The group called on the Inspector-General of Police to order a comprehensive and independent review of the entire investigation into the Ajiran killings to ensure that all credible allegations are examined without bias.



It also urged the Lagos State Police Command to declare Fakorede and Akinloye wanted over their alleged roles in the killings, warning that it would stage a protest at the Force Headquarters within 48 hours if no action was taken.



Reaffirming its commitment to justice, the CCRP said it would continue to monitor developments in the case while advocating fairness, accountability and equal justice under the law.



The allegations contained in the statement are claims made by the CCRP. At the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force and the individuals named had not publicly responded to the allegations.

2027: FOGGN Endorses Tinubu for Second Term, Kicks Off Nationwide Grassroots Mobilization

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo





​ABUJA — A political advocacy group, Face of Good Governance Nigeria (FOGGN), has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 presidential elections, pledging to launch an aggressive grassroots mobilization drive across the nation’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).


​Speaking at the official inauguration and public declaration of FOGGN FOR TINUBU 2027 in Abuja, the Director-General of the movement, Ambassador Sonia Joy Okochichi, declared the group's "total and unconditional support" for the President, describing his administration’s policy direction as bold, courageous, and essential for long-term growth.

​Highlighting key economic and social interventions by the current administration, Okochichi cited the removal of the petrol subsidy, the launch of the national student loan scheme, extensive infrastructure expansion in roads, rail, and ports, and ongoing efforts to stabilize the Naira as critical milestones of the "Renewed Hope" agenda.

​"Leadership is not about occupying a seat. Leadership is about making a seat meaningful for the people," Okochichi remarked during her address. "These are not easy decisions. But leadership is about making hard choices today for a better tomorrow. President Tinubu is laying the foundation for a Nigeria that truly works."

​Addressing concerns over the socio-economic challenges stemming from ongoing fiscal reforms, the FOGGN leader acknowledged the burden on citizens while urging the President to maintain his trajectory. She called on the administration to prioritize youth empowerment, national security, and the completion of critical infrastructure projects.

​Okochichi further clarified that FOGGN is far from a localized political organ, pointing to established grassroots networks designed to mobilize voters across urban and rural communities nationwide.

​"Let it be clear: we are not an Abuja-only group," she emphasized. "From Lagos to Maiduguri, from Sokoto to Port Harcourt, from the cities to the villages — our coordinators are on the ground. When FOGGN speaks, the grassroots hear."

​During her speech, Ambassador Okochichi expressed gratitude to Barrister Seyi Tinubu for his support and commitment to youth inclusion and development, acknowledging his role in championing governance initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation.

​Concluding her declaration with the popular African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together," Okochichi announced that the group’s nation-wide sensitization and structural deployment begin immediately, setting the stage for an early operational footprint ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.

Names and states of coordunators Inaugurated by the Director General of FACE OF GOOD GOVERNANCE, NIGERIA, HON. AMB. SONIA JOY OKOCHICHI

Video below 👇





Names of the inaugural:

Lagos: Comr. Emmanuel Enitan AJIBOLA

Ondo: Comr. Peter OGUNDEJI

Ekiti: Comr. Ayokunle OLAIFA

Oyo: Engr. Ayobami DAGILOGBA

Osun: Comr. pius Friday EZEKIEL

Ogun: Amb. Oluwakayode Akinlawon AKINPELU

Southwest Coordinator: Hon. Comr. Temitope Olayinka TAIWO

MEDIA ICON IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Amebo Newspaper NG Publisher Celebrates Alhaja Yemi Kolapo-Showunmi



ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE — The Publisher and Managing Editor of Amebo Newspaper NG, Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo, has showered praises on renowned media tycoon and political trailblazer, Alhaja Yemi Kolapo-Showunmi, describing her as an extraordinary leader, a selfless mentor, and an exceptionally warm family figure.

The tribute comes as political momentum builds in Ogun State, where Alhaja Kolapo-Showunmi stands out as the Deputy Governorship flagbearer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A Trailblazer in Media and Politics

In a goodwill message released to the press, Mr. Solanke highlighted Alhaja Kolapo-Showunmi’s remarkable contributions to the media landscape and her unwavering commitment to public service.

He lauded her dedication to excellence, noting that her transition into front-line politics is a natural extension of her lifelong passion for community development and social justice.

"Alhaja Yemi Kolapo-Showunmi is a woman of rare distinction. She embodies dedication, resilience, and compassion. Beyond her outstanding accomplishments in the media industry, she is an accommodating in-law and a unifying force who genuinely loves and uplifts everyone around her," Solanke stated.







Prayers for Continued Success

Reflecting on her journey, the Amebo Newspaper NG boss offered heartfelt prayers for the PDP Deputy Governorship candidate, wishing her continuous divine protection, robust health, and greater milestones as she prepares for the upcoming political contest.

> "As she continues her journey toward serving the good people of Ogun State, we pray that Almighty God grants her many more years filled with His boundless love, wisdom, and remarkable achievements," he added.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Alhaja Yemi Kolapo-Showunmi’s political emergence has continued to gather strong support across Ogun State, particularly among women, youth groups, and the media constituency, who view her candidacy as a significant step toward inclusive governance.

With endorsement messages pouring in from media professionals and political allies alike, her standing as a formidable force in the state's political landscape remains firmly established.

Ibile: the Anti-Land Grabbing Campaign Convener Urges Lagos AG to Review Murder Prosecution, Seek Independent Investigation









The Convener of the Anti-Land Grabbing Campaign, Hon. Dr. Audullahi Saheed Mosadoluwa popularly known as Ibile, has called on the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to undertake an independent review of an ongoing criminal prosecution and, where legally justified, temporarily discontinue the case pending the outcome of further investigations.



In a petition dated July 24, 2026, and addressed to the Attorney General, Mosadoluwa said his request was driven by the need to uphold justice, institutional integrity and public confidence in the criminal justice system.



Copies of the petition were also sent to the Chief Judge of Lagos State, the Inspector-General of Police, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission and the Director of Public Prosecutions.



Mosadoluwa, who identified himself as a concerned citizen, property rights advocate, Convener of the Anti-Land Grabbing Campaign, and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Harmony Gardens & Estate Development Limited, said his advocacy had consistently focused on protecting legitimate property rights, promoting the rule of law and ensuring institutional accountability.







According to him, the Office of the Attorney General occupies a constitutional position as the guardian of justice and the public interest, with the responsibility not only to prosecute criminal cases but also to ensure that justice is administered fairly and independently.



He urged the ministry to independently determine whether all relevant evidence, including both inculpatory and exculpatory materials, had been fully considered before the prosecution proceeds further.



Mosadoluwa further requested that if an independent review uncovers material inconsistencies, unresolved evidential issues or investigative deficiencies, the Attorney General should consider temporarily discontinuing the prosecution until a comprehensive investigation is concluded, where permitted by law.



He listed several issues he believes deserve independent examination, including whether all relevant evidence was objectively evaluated, whether investigative reports contained inconsistencies, whether procedural irregularities occurred during the investigation, and whether any material facts were omitted from the investigative or prosecutorial process.



The petition also called for a review of whether any individual improperly sought to influence investigators, witnesses, prosecutors or public opinion, and whether any police officers, public officials or private individuals acted outside their lawful authority during the investigation.



Mosadoluwa also requested a review of whether prosecutorial advice was based on a complete assessment of the available evidence and whether any additional criminal conduct uncovered during further investigations should be referred to the appropriate authorities.



He stated that his overriding concern was ensuring justice in the case involving the late Prince Ademola Akinloye, adding that the deceased's family deserved the truth while the public deserved confidence that every aspect of the investigation had been conducted professionally, impartially and without improper influence.



"If the evidence ultimately establishes criminal responsibility against any individual, the law should take its full course. Equally, if further investigation reveals material deficiencies or additional evidence, those matters should be fully addressed before justice reaches its final conclusion," he said.



Mosadoluwa maintained that he had no personal relationship with the accused person and no personal interest in the outcome of the case, stressing that his intervention was solely motivated by a desire to ensure a fair and transparent judicial process.



He also stated that, subject to the orders of the court and applicable law, he would be willing to stand as a surety if bail were granted, explaining that his position was based on the constitutional principle that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.



The petitioner urged the Attorney General to give the request careful consideration in the interest of justice, the rule of law and public confidence in the administration of criminal justice in Lagos State.

Remo Reps Member Revives Ijebu-Remo State Creation Bill, Pushes New LGAs and Federal Agriculture College

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo




Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, the member representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has renewed her legislative drive for constitutional and institutional reforms with the re-introduction of three strategic bills aimed at accelerating development across Remoland and Ogun State.

The lawmaker, who has consistently projected a people-centred legislative agenda since assuming office, said the bills are designed to strengthen governance, improve grassroots administration, promote agricultural development, and advance the long-standing aspiration for the creation of Ijebu-Remo State.

The three bills, which have now been read for the first time on the floor of the House of Representatives, mark the beginning of the legislative process and are expected to proceed through subsequent stages of parliamentary consideration.

At the centre of the proposals is the Bill for the Creation of Ijebu-Remo State, a constitutional initiative seeking to carve out a new state from the present Ogun State.

According to the lawmaker, the proposal reflects decades of agitation by the people of the old Ijebu Province for equitable representation, balanced resource distribution, and improved administrative efficiency. She maintained that the creation of the proposed state would provide a stronger framework for accelerated socio-economic development and better governance.

Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji has also continued to advocate for consensus among stakeholders on issues relating to the proposed state's name and capital, with Sagamu frequently identified as a strong contender because of its strategic location, population, and existing infrastructure.

The second proposal is a Constitutional Alteration Bill seeking the creation of additional Local Government Areas in Ogun State, particularly within the Remo Federal Constituency.

The proposed councils include Orile-Oko, Sagamu West, Sagamu South, Ikenne South, and other new administrative units intended to bring government closer to the people.

The lawmaker explained that increasing the number of local government areas would enhance service delivery, improve administrative effectiveness, deepen democratic participation at the grassroots, and stimulate local economic development.

Also included in the legislative package is a bill seeking an amendment to the Agricultural Research Council Act to establish the Federal College of Agriculture, Orile-Oko Remo.

If passed into law, the institution is expected to serve as a centre for agricultural education, research, innovation, youth empowerment, and skills development while contributing significantly to food security and rural economic growth.

The proposed college is also envisioned as a catalyst for modern agricultural practices and a platform for equipping young people with practical knowledge capable of driving agricultural transformation within Ogun State and beyond.

Speaking on the significance of the bills, Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji described the initiatives as part of her commitment to delivering purposeful and people-focused representation.

She stressed that sustainable development requires bold legislative action capable of addressing governance challenges while creating opportunities for economic growth and institutional expansion.

The federal lawmaker also reaffirmed her commitment to engaging traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, professional associations, and other critical stakeholders to build broad-based support for the proposals.

According to her, unity of purpose among the people of Remoland and the wider Ijebu axis remains essential to achieving the long-standing dream of state creation and stronger grassroots governance.

Political observers note that although constitutional amendments and state creation require extensive legislative procedures and broad national support before becoming law, the re-introduction of the bills has once again brought the issues of state creation, local government expansion, and regional development into national discourse.

The bills will now undergo further legislative scrutiny, including committee consideration, public hearings where applicable, and subsequent readings before any final decision by the National Assembly.

Remo Reps Seat: Ayoola-Elegbeji Condemns 'Misleading' Campaign Banner, Insists She Remains Lawful Lawmaker

By Our Correspondent






The Media Office of the Member representing Ikenne, Sagamu and Remo North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, has condemned the circulation of what it described as a misleading campaign banner allegedly portraying an All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant, Hon. Funmilayo Efuwape, as the current representative of the constituency in the National Assembly.

In a statement issued in Sagamu, Ogun State, the Media Office described the banner as false, deceptive and capable of creating confusion among members of the public regarding the constitutional occupant of the federal legislative seat.

The statement clarified that Hon. Funmilayo Efuwape remains an aspirant within the APC and has neither been elected nor sworn in as a member of the House of Representatives.

It reaffirmed that Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji remains the duly elected and constitutionally recognised representative of Ikenne, Sagamu and Remo North Federal Constituency, stressing that she will continue to discharge the mandate freely given to her by the electorate until the expiration of her tenure in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to the statement, the use of campaign materials portraying a political aspirant as the incumbent lawmaker undermines democratic principles and has the potential to mislead the public.

"The deliberate or negligent use of campaign materials that portray a candidate as the incumbent Member of the House of Representatives is misleading, capable of creating public confusion, and inconsistent with the principles of democratic accountability and responsible political communication. Political ambition must never be pursued at the expense of truth or constitutional order," the statement read.

The Media Office called on those responsible for producing and circulating the banner to immediately withdraw all such materials, issue appropriate corrections and desist from further publications capable of misrepresenting the status of the office.

It also urged party members, supporters, political stakeholders and residents of the constituency to distinguish between a party's consensus candidate or aspirant and the constitutionally recognised occupant of an elective office.

The statement emphasised that, under Nigeria's democratic system, no individual can assume public office without first being duly elected by the people and subsequently sworn into office in accordance with the law.

The office further advised residents of Ikenne, Sagamu and Remo North Federal Constituency to disregard the controversial banner and rely only on official communication channels of Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji for authentic information concerning her office and legislative activities.

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the Media Office stressed that respect for constitutional governance, the sanctity of the electoral process and the integrity of public institutions must remain paramount as political activities ahead of future elections gather momentum.

The statement concluded by urging all political actors to conduct their campaigns responsibly, truthfully and within the bounds of the law in order to preserve public confidence in Nigeria's democratic process.

2027: Can the Adebutu, Amuzu Alliance Rewrite Ogun's Political History? — Analyst



As Ogun State gradually moves towards the 2027 general elections, political discussions have begun to centre on one major question: can the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reclaim power in the state after years in opposition? At the heart of this debate are the party's governorship candidate, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, and its House of Representatives candidate for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, Chief Toyin Amuzu, two politicians whose political identities have been shaped by years of philanthropy, grassroots engagement and sustained interaction with local communities.



While elections are ultimately decided by the electorate, political analysts believe that both men possess attributes capable of making them formidable contenders if effectively translated into votes.



The Adebutu Factor

Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu remains one of the most recognised opposition politicians in Ogun State. Having served in both the National Assembly and the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission, he has built extensive political structures across the state over several decades.



His emergence as the PDP's consensus governorship candidate reflects considerable confidence within the party. Beyond party politics, Adebutu has consistently maintained visibility through his investments in agriculture, youth empowerment, healthcare interventions and educational support.



Through the Ladi Adebutu Foundation, thousands of Ogun residents have benefited from various empowerment initiatives ranging from agricultural support to educational assistance, healthcare projects and rural infrastructure. His donations of electricity transformers, school renovations and hospital support have further strengthened his image as a politician with an established record of community intervention.







Many observers believe these humanitarian efforts have helped him retain relevance despite electoral setbacks.



Chief Toyin Amuzu: Grassroots Politics Beyond Election Seasons

In Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, Chief Toyin Amuzu has steadily emerged as one of the PDP's strongest political figures.



Widely known as a successful real estate developer, humanitarian and holder of the traditional title of Asiwaju-Leragun Egba, Amuzu has built much of his public profile around direct community service.



Unlike many politicians whose visibility increases only during election periods, Amuzu has consistently undertaken community projects through the Toyin Amuzu Foundation (TAF).



His interventions include the construction of more than 24 community boreholes, installation of solar-powered streetlights, business registration support through the Corporate Affairs Commission, distribution of Point of Sale (POS) machines, kiosks and business grants to women and youths.



His sponsorship of grassroots football through Toyin Amuzu FC has also endeared him to young people across Abeokuta South.



Political observers argue that such sustained engagement may provide him with an electoral advantage because many beneficiaries have witnessed his interventions firsthand.



Why Analysts Believe They Stand a Strong Chance

Several political developments could work in favour of the PDP candidates in 2027.



First is growing public concern over economic hardship. Rising inflation, unemployment and increasing living costs have made economic issues central to political campaigns nationwide. The PDP intends to campaign on improving livelihoods and expanding opportunities for ordinary citizens.



Secondly, both Adebutu and Amuzu possess strong grassroots recognition. Their frequent interactions with residents, community organisations, traditional institutions and youth groups have given them visibility beyond conventional political rallies.



Thirdly, philanthropy has become an important political asset. While charitable activities alone do not guarantee electoral victory, consistent community interventions often strengthen public perception of accessibility and compassion.



Another advantage lies in the organisational structures of the PDP across many local communities. Should the party maintain internal unity and mobilise effectively, analysts believe it could improve its electoral competitiveness.



Challenges Ahead

Despite these strengths, both candidates face significant obstacles.



The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) remains firmly established in Ogun State with extensive political structures and incumbency advantages.



Electoral outcomes are also influenced by multiple factors, including voter turnout, party cohesion, campaign organisation, public sentiment, candidate debates and the credibility of the electoral process.



Furthermore, opposition parties often face the challenge of converting public goodwill into actual votes on election day.



The Importance of Issue-Based Campaigns

Chief Toyin Amuzu has repeatedly emphasised community-driven representation, promising to allow constituents identify projects that directly address their needs rather than imposing priorities from above.



Similarly, Adebutu has consistently advocated policies aimed at economic recovery, job creation, agricultural development and improved social welfare.



Should both candidates sustain issue-based campaigns while strengthening grassroots mobilisation, they could significantly influence the political landscape in Ogun State.



Looking Towards 2027

The 2027 elections promise to be among the most competitive in Ogun State's recent political history.



For Oladipupo Adebutu, the election represents another opportunity to convince voters that his long-standing investments in people and communities deserve the mandate to govern the state.



For Chief Toyin Amuzu, it presents the chance to transform years of humanitarian service into legislative representation for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency.



Ultimately, whether the Adebutu–Amuzu ticket succeeds will depend on the choices made by voters, the effectiveness of their campaigns, the unity of their party and the broader political climate as election day approaches.



What remains clear is that both men have established themselves as significant political actors whose activities will continue to shape political conversations in Ogun State throughout the journey to the 2027 general elections.

Good Governance Advocates Gather in Ogun State as FOGGN South West Prepares to Inaugurate Zonal and State Executives





ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA — Expectations are high as the Face of Good Governance Nigeria (FOGGN) South West Zone prepares to host its highly anticipated Zonal and State Executives Inauguration & Inaugural Lecture.

The epoch-making event, centered around the theme "Community Inclusion: A Panacea of Good Governance," will gather prominent political leaders, traditional rulers, key stakeholders, and community advocates to set a new benchmark for inclusive leadership and grassroots development across the South West region.

Key Event Details

Date: Wednesday, 29th July, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Peter Akintola Auditorium, Obada Oko, Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Ogun State

Dignitaries & Key Figures

The event features a distinguished lineup of national figures, guest speakers, and royal fathers:
Grand Patron: Barr. Seyi Tinubu (Grand Patron, FOGGN)

Director General Hon. Amb. Sonia Joy Okochichi (Director General, FOGGN)

Royal Father of the Day: His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi CFR (Ooni of Ife)

Guest Speakers:

Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola FCA (Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District)
Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (Managing Director/CEO, National Inland Waterways Authority - NIWA)
Dr. Hamzat Obafemi Kadri** (Deputy Governor of Lagos State)

Hosts:
Chief Host: Hon. Comr. Taiwo Temitope Olayinka (FOGGN South West Coordinator)
Host: Amb. Comr'd Oluwakayode Akinlawon Akinpelu (Ogun State Coordinator)

Focus of the Event

The inaugural lecture aims to address critical pathways to achieving sustainable development by putting local communities at the center of governance processes. Discussions will focus on how community engagement, active citizenship, and inclusive policy-making serve as essential tools for national growth and effective leadership.

Organizers have assured attendees and media partners of a seamless and highly impactful program aimed at inspiring public accountability and active civic participation across the South West state chapters.

The Joseph Model of Mergers & Acquisitions: Why Organizational Health Matters More Than Organizational Size



A Practical Framework for Sustainable Corporate Integration





The history of corporate mergers and acquisitions demonstrates a simple reality: financial strength alone does not guarantee a successful integration. While some acquisitions create extraordinary shareholder values, others destroy them despite the impressive size, market capitalization, or brand recognition of the organizations involved.



The biblical account of Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dream presents a profound leadership framework for modeling and understanding successful organizational integration - take over. The dreams of the cows must, however, be seen and approached in the light of what caused the first seven cows to be "fatfleshed and well favoured" and the other seven lean in the first place - the healthiness and otherwise of the cows, instead of the sheer size of the cows - to be able to give meaningful predictions of the outcomes of merger or take over of an organization by another.



*Pharaoh's Dream Through the Lens of Corporate Strategy*



Consider Pharaoh's dream #

Seven healthy, well-nourished cows were consumed by seven lean and unhealthy cows. Surprisingly, after the takeover, the lean cows remained just as unhealthy as before. The healthy cows had disappeared, yet no visible strength had been transferred to the surviving animals.



Viewed from a corporate perspective, this represents a merger or acquisition in which an unhealthy organization absorbs a healthier one, probably because of shear size, economic emergencies or regulatory requirements. Rather than creating value, the transaction destroys the strengths of the acquired organization, leaving the combined enterprise weaker than expected.



*Joseph's response, however, provides an alternative model.*



##Joseph proposed preserving one-fifth (20%) of the abundance generated during the years of plenty to sustain the nation during the years of famine.



From a corporate perspective, this principle suggests that a healthy organization should intentionally transfer a carefully managed portion of its resources, systems, capabilities, and operational excellence into the weaker organization during the integration process. This deliberate transfer acts as a strategic safeguard, enabling the acquired organization to regain strength without compromising the health of the acquiring enterprise. This is like a transfusing portion of "healthy blood" of the healthier organization that actually makes the organization healthy in the first place into the less healthy organization, no matter the sizes of the organizations involved.



The lesson is clear:



Successful mergers are determined less by the size of the organizations (the outward parameters - the financials) involved than by the organizational health (the inward parameters - the blood of the organization) of the acquiring institution.



*Beyond Financial Due Diligence*



Many mergers are evaluated primarily through a "bird's-eye view" using conventional financial indicators, including:



- Balance sheet strength

- Market capitalization

- Asset portfolio

- Brand equity

- Market share

- Ownership structure

- Regulatory compliance

- Legal liabilities



While these metrics remain important, they provide only a partial picture - the quantitative side.



Joseph's model encourages leaders to complement this perspective with a "worm's-eye view"—a deeper examination of the internal health, resilience, and long-term sustainability of the organizations involved - the qualitative side.



This level of due diligence seeks to answer a more fundamental question:



Is this organization truly healthy enough to create long-term value after integration?



*Indicators of Organizational Health*



Before pursuing any merger or acquisition, executive leadership should evaluate the following strategic indicators:



- Sustainable growth rates and trajectory rather than absolute organizational size.

- Modernity and scalability of operational processes and infrastructure.

- Quality of corporate governance.

- Strength and adaptability of corporate culture the organizations involved.

- Technological maturity and digital capability.

- Distinctiveness and competitiveness of products and services.

- Long-term relevance of the organization's offerings.

- Effectiveness of internal control systems.

- Internally generated research, innovation, and continuous improvement capability.

- Strategic agility—the ability to anticipate change and respond effectively.

- Business continuity, succession planning, and exit readiness.

- Business model compatibility of the organizations involved and capacity for strategic pivoting.

- Turnaround capability, including the availability of leadership, expertise, and resources to do so.

- Market potential and future demand.

- Long-term sustainability of the industry sector.

- Profitability and financial resilience.

- Exposure to changing economic conditions.

- Strength of the supporting business ecosystem, particularly for Tech Startups where no Tech organizations can succeed without collaborations with other organizations in the ecosystem.



When all or most of the above listed are in the affirmative, we can conclude that the organization is healthy and can be able to take over another organizations successfully otherwise the organization is unhealthy and such organization being the principal in a merger or acquisition will add no values and can even lead to the death of all the organization combined together.



*The Joseph Matrix for Mergers & Acquisitions*



Joseph's framework may be summarized in four strategic outcomes:



1. A Healthy Organization Acquiring a Healthy Organization



When two healthy organizations combine, the result is typically a stronger, more resilient enterprise capable of generating greater values than the combined values the organizations could have achieved independently.



2. A Healthy Organization Acquiring an Unhealthy Organization



Provided that the healthier organization possesses sufficient leadership capacity, governance, operational discipline, and strategic resources, the combined organization can be restored to long-term health regardless of the relative size of the acquired company.



3. An Unhealthy Organization Acquiring a Healthy Organization



When organizational weakness becomes the dominant influence during integration, the strengths of the healthier organization are gradually eroded. The result is a combined enterprise that increasingly reflects the weaknesses of the acquirer rather than the strengths of the acquired organization, which can lead to the collapse of the combination.



4. An Unhealthy Organization Acquiring Another Unhealthy Organization



Combining two unhealthy organizations rarely produces a healthy enterprise. Without fundamental transformation, the merger simply consolidates existing weaknesses and magnifies operational, cultural, and financial challenges.



*Executive Insight*



Joseph's counsel to Pharaoh extends far beyond economic planning. It provides timeless wisdom for today's corporate leaders navigating mergers, acquisitions, and organizational transformation.



The most successful transactions are not necessarily executed by the largest organizations. They are executed by the healthiest organizations—those with disciplined leadership, strong governance, resilient culture, operational excellence, and the capacity to transfer these strengths throughout the newly integrated enterprise.



For boards, investors, founders, CEOs, and corporate executives, the enduring lesson is clear:



In mergers and acquisitions, organizational health is a more reliable predictor of long-term success than organizational size.



This explains why a relatively small and healthy organization can take over a bigger one and successfully turn around the integrated organization with impressive and undebatable successful outcomes while a bigger organization can take over a smaller one or of equal size without any detectable additional beneficial outcomes.



#Genesis 41:18–21. ##Genesis 41:34–36,



— Foluso Gade

Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Business Advisor & Startup Development Consultant

08031541770

Lagos Lawyer Petitions Police Service Commission over Alleged Misconduct by AIG Jimoh Moshood



A Lagos-based legal practitioner, Mr. Adedotun Ajulo, has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC), calling for an investigation into the conduct of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, Commissioner of Police (INTERPOL) Fidelis Ogarabe Ndubuisi, and ACP Mohammed Usman over their handling of the criminal investigation involving businessman Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi.

In the petition addressed to the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Ajulo, who said he was acting on behalf of his client, alleged that the officers engaged in gross abuse of office, criminal defamation, media trial, conduct unbecoming of senior police officers, and violations of the constitutional presumption of innocence guaranteed under Nigerian law.

According to the petition, Akanbi, described as a businessman, estate developer and community leader from Ajiran Community in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, had previously honoured several police invitations concerning investigations into communal disturbances and the deaths of Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye. The petition maintained that despite multiple investigations by different police formations, no credible evidence had linked him to the alleged offences.

The lawyers alleged that while Akanbi was abroad receiving medical treatment, he was publicly declared wanted by then Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Jimoh Moshood, on February 19, 2026, without prior invitation or an opportunity to respond to the allegations.

The petition argued that the declaration was made without exhausting investigative procedures or obtaining any judicial pronouncement establishing criminal liability, adding that it violated the constitutional presumption of innocence. It further claimed that the wanted declaration led to attacks on the client's business interests, destruction of landed properties allegedly worth billions of naira, and significant reputational damage.

Ajulo stated that following a complaint to the Inspector-General of Police on February 23, 2026, the investigation was transferred from the Lagos State Command to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) X-Squad, Alagbon, after the Inspector-General found merit in the request for an independent investigation.

The petition also disclosed that Akanbi instituted a fundamental rights enforcement suit before the Lagos State High Court challenging the legality of the wanted declaration and the publication of his image, while also contesting the absence of any prior invitation before he was declared wanted.

The lawyers further alleged that despite the pending court proceedings, ex parte orders were obtained for Akanbi's arrest and remand, one of which was later set aside by a Magistrate Court on the grounds of alleged fraud, material non-disclosure and misrepresentation. They claimed that a subsequent application seeking similar relief was also declined, with the court directing that Akanbi be invited to appear before investigators upon his return to Nigeria.

According to the petition, Akanbi voluntarily returned from medical treatment abroad after notifying investigators of his intention to honour police invitations. However, he was arrested in the Republic of Benin by local authorities at the request of the Nigeria Police Force before being handed over to INTERPOL Nigeria for transfer to Lagos.

The legal team alleged that while in police custody, Akanbi was compelled to wear a shirt bearing the inscription "WANTED," photographed in handcuffs and leg chains, and that the images were later circulated on social media, amounting to public humiliation and a violation of his constitutional rights. It further claimed that he was held in solitary confinement under degrading conditions until the intervention of the Inspector-General of Police.

The petition also accused AIG Moshood of continuing to hold media briefings after the investigation had reportedly been transferred from his control, alleging that comments made during press conferences portrayed Akanbi as guilty before the conclusion of investigations and before any judicial determination of the allegations.

Ajulo argued that the public statements made during the press briefings amounted to media trial, criminal defamation and prejudice to the administration of justice, contending that they undermined the constitutional rights of the accused to fair hearing and the presumption of innocence.

The petition further alleged that the officers' actions demonstrated bias, citing the declaration of Akanbi as wanted without prior invitation, repeated media commentary while court proceedings were pending, circulation of photographs depicting him in chains, and public appeals for additional complaints against him.

Among other reliefs, the petitioner urged the Police Service Commission to investigate the roles played by AIG Moshood, CP Fidelis Ogarabe Ndubuisi and ACP Mohammed Usman; constitute an independent disciplinary panel; determine whether their actions violated the Constitution, the Police Act and police regulations; and impose appropriate disciplinary sanctions if found culpable.

The petition also requested directives compelling the officers to retract the allegedly defamatory statements, issue public apologies, remove publications and photographs portraying Akanbi as a convicted criminal from official platforms, and introduce institutional guidelines prohibiting media trials and prejudicial public comments on criminal suspects.

In conclusion, the lawyers maintained that the petition was not intended to obstruct criminal investigations but to ensure that police powers are exercised within constitutional limits and in accordance with the rule of law, urging the Police Service Commission to investigate the allegations and take steps to preserve public confidence in the integrity and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force.

Akanbi Family Seeks Probe of AIG Moshood, Akinloye, Fakorede Over Alleged Murder Cover-Up







The family of Hammed Akanbi Tajudeen has submitted a petition to the Inspector General of Police seeking an independent investigation into the roles allegedly played by Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Jimoh Moshood, Hon. Prince Babajide Akinloye and Aare Bashir Fakorede in connection with the investigations into the deaths of Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye.



The petition, written by Damian N. Ukpa, Esq., through Ikechukwu Godswill, Esq., on behalf of their client, called for a comprehensive and impartial probe into allegations of criminal conspiracy, false accusation, obstruction of justice, and possible complicity in the investigations surrounding the two killings.



According to the petition, Waheed Fadipe,, who is identified as the Head of the Eejo Family, one of the ruling houses within the Ojomu Royal Family in Ajiran Community, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, raised concerns over the manner in which the investigations into the murders were conducted.



The petition stated that long-running disagreements over the management and sale of community lands had created divisions within the Ojomu Royal Family, adding that Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, a youth leader within the family, had consistently advocated transparency and accountability in the management of communal assets.



It alleged that following the deaths of Sheriff Ishola Salami in 2023 and Prince Ademola Akinloye in 2024, Akanbi became the focus of police investigations and was publicly accused of masterminding both killings despite what the petition described as the absence of credible evidence linking him to the crimes.











The lawyers further stated that Akanbi, who was reportedly outside Nigeria receiving medical treatment during part of the investigation, was declared wanted while AIG Jimoh served as Commissioner of Police in Lagos State.



According to the petition, Akanbi was arrested upon his return to Nigeria in April 2026, publicly paraded before the media and is currently standing trial before the Lagos State High Court over the death of Sheriff Ishola Salami.



The petition questioned why the eventual criminal charge filed against Akanbi related only to the death of Salami despite earlier public allegations linking him to both murders.



It also alleged that requests by the defence team for certified copies of investigation reports and witness statements were denied, while materials said to be from the police investigation later appeared on social media.



The petition further referred to videos and documents circulated online by Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, which suggested that two suspects, identified as "Fabo" and "Bariga," initially confessed to responsibility for Salami's death before later implicating Akanbi.



It also alleged that subsequent video statements by the same suspects claimed they had been subjected to torture and coercion to implicate him by the police in the presence of Aare Bashir Fakorede, who insisted that they must implicate Akanbi. The suspects claimed that Fakorede was the one who insisted that they must change their statements.



The petition also referenced publicly available materials and online publications alleging that Hon. Prince Babajide Akinloye had been among the last persons to communicate with Prince Ademola Akinloye before his death. It further alleged that documents in the public domain raised questions about the release of the deceased's remains without an autopsy, the release of his mobile phone before forensic examination, and the subsequent sale of property associated with the deceased.



In addition, the petition called for an investigation into allegations that another detainee identified as David died in police custody during the same investigative period.



Fadipe, through his solicitors, argued that the cumulative circumstances warranted an independent review to determine whether investigative processes were improperly influenced, whether evidence was obtained through coercion, and whether relevant investigative leads were overlooked.



Among other requests, the petition urged the authorities to investigate allegations of torture, examine the handling of forensic evidence, determine how confidential police documents entered the public domain, subject electronic evidence to independent forensic analysis, and prosecute anyone found culpable of criminal conspiracy, obstruction of justice, false accusation, torture, aiding and abetting murder, or any other offence disclosed by the investigation.



The petitioner said he is willing to cooperate with investigators and provide any materials in his possession that may assist an independent inquiry.

Lagos Assembly Hails Ojokoro LCDA Chair Rosiji as 'Mrs. Project,' 'Superwoman' After Landmark Project Inspection






The Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development has applauded the Executive Chairman of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. (Barr.) Oluyemisi Adenike Rosiji, for what it described as an outstanding performance in grassroots governance, conferring on her the titles of "Mrs. Project" and "Superwoman" following an extensive inspection of developmental projects across the council area.


The commendation came during the committee's official oversight visit to Ojokoro LCDA on Wednesday, where lawmakers undertook a comprehensive tour of completed and ongoing projects before reviewing the administration's performance through a detailed multimedia presentation of its achievements within just 11 months in office.


The delegation, led by the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Ganiyu Sanni Okanlawon, assessed projects spanning infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth development, social welfare and economic empowerment.
Infrastructure Drives Grassroots Transformation
One of the major highlights of the inspection was the administration's ambitious infrastructure programme, which has delivered 12 strategic road projects, seven major drainage projects and 36 solar-powered street lights across different communities within Ojokoro LCDA.


The lawmakers noted that the newly constructed and rehabilitated roads have significantly improved accessibility and eased movement for residents and businesses, while the drainage projects are helping to tackle persistent flooding challenges in several parts of the council area.


They also praised the installation of solar-powered street lights, describing the initiative as a major boost to public safety, security and economic activities by improving visibility and mobility at night.


₦100 Million Empowerment Initiative Impresses Lawmakers
The Assembly Committee also commended the council's phased ₦100 million palliative and empowerment programme, which has provided financial support and economic opportunities for artisans, youths, widows, elderly citizens and other vulnerable residents.


According to the lawmakers, the intervention demonstrates the administration's commitment to cushioning the effects of economic hardship while promoting self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
Agriculture, Healthcare Receive Attention
Another initiative that attracted commendation was the acquisition and preparation of 100 hectares of farmland in Iboro, designed to strengthen food security, encourage agricultural production and create employment opportunities.


In the health sector, the committee applauded the council's collaboration with Lions Clubs International to provide free medical services to 1,000 residents, describing the outreach as a significant contribution to improving access to quality healthcare at the grassroots.
The enrolment of 1,000 families into the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme was equally recognised as a people-centred intervention capable of expanding healthcare access for low-income households.


Youth Development and Social Inclusion
Lawmakers further praised the administration's investment in free ICT and vocational training programmes, which are equipping young people with practical digital and technical skills needed for employment, entrepreneurship and economic independence.


They also acknowledged various empowerment initiatives targeting widows, senior citizens and other vulnerable groups as evidence of an inclusive governance approach.
Special commendation was reserved for the innovative "One Day Chairman" and "One Day Leader of the House" programmes, which allow selected residents to experience leadership at the local government level while receiving cash gifts.


The committee described the initiative as a creative platform for nurturing leadership, encouraging civic participation and strengthening the bond between government and the people.

"Mrs. Project" and "Superwoman"
Speaking after the inspection, members of the committee expressed satisfaction with the scale and quality of projects executed within a relatively short period, praising Hon. Rosiji for combining physical infrastructure with human capital development, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment and social welfare programmes.


They described the Executive Chairman as "Mrs. Project" and a "Superwoman," noting that her administration has demonstrated vision, commitment and effective leadership in delivering impactful projects that directly improve the lives of residents.


The lawmakers encouraged her to sustain the pace of development and continue implementing programmes that promote inclusive growth and grassroots prosperity.
Setting a Benchmark in Local Governance
The oversight visit ended on a highly positive note, with the committee expressing confidence that the administration has laid a solid foundation for sustainable development in Ojokoro LCDA.


Within less than one year in office, Hon. (Barr.) Oluyemisi Adenike Rosiji's administration has delivered a broad range of impactful initiatives, including 12 road projects, seven drainage projects, 36 solar-powered street lights, a ₦100 million phased palliative and empowerment programme, 100 hectares of agricultural land, free healthcare for 1,000 residents, health insurance coverage for another 1,000 families, youth skills development programmes, social welfare interventions and innovative civic engagement initiatives.


Observers say the achievements have not only transformed communities across Ojokoro LCDA but have also positioned the council as a leading example of purposeful, inclusive and people-focused grassroots governance in Lagos State.

Ajayi Hails Abiodun's Babcock Good Governance Award, Describes Governor as Beacon of Visionary Leadership

...Says Honour Reflects Governor's Commitment to Transforming Ogun State



Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo





ABEOKUTA – The Honourable Councillor representing Owode Constituency, Ward 03, Hon. Adekunle Ajayi, has congratulated Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, on the conferment of the Award of Good Governance by Babcock University, Ilisan-Remo, describing the honour as a well-deserved recognition of the governor's exemplary leadership and remarkable developmental strides across the state.



In a congratulatory message made available to journalists, Hon. Ajayi said the prestigious award, presented during the university's convocation ceremony, is a testament to Governor Abiodun's unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, people-centred governance, and sustainable development.



According to the councillor, the governor has consistently demonstrated that good governance is measured by tangible improvements in the lives of the people through quality infrastructure, educational reforms, healthcare delivery, economic growth, youth empowerment, and improved social welfare.



He noted that under Governor Abiodun's administration, Ogun State has witnessed significant progress in road construction, education, agriculture, industrial development, digital innovation, and investment promotion, earning the state national recognition as one of Nigeria's fastest-growing investment destinations.



Hon. Ajayi also commended the governor's passion for education, describing his decision to reward outstanding graduating students during the Babcock University convocation as another demonstration of his administration's commitment to encouraging academic excellence and human capital development.



He said the governor's emphasis on producing graduates who are solution providers rather than mere certificate holders reflects the visionary leadership required to prepare young Nigerians for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.



"The Award of Good Governance conferred on His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, is a fitting recognition of his outstanding leadership and selfless service to the people of Ogun State. His administration has continued to deliver purposeful governance through impactful policies and projects that have transformed lives and communities across the state," Ajayi stated.



The councillor expressed confidence that the recognition would further inspire Governor Abiodun to sustain the momentum of development and continue implementing policies that promote inclusive growth and prosperity.



He also applauded Babcock University for recognising excellence in public service, saying the institution's decision to honour Governor Abiodun underscores the growing national appreciation for leaders who prioritize accountability, innovation, and sustainable development.



Hon. Ajayi prayed for greater wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for the governor as he continues to lead Ogun State toward greater socio-economic progress.



He reaffirmed his loyalty and support for the administration, urging residents of Ogun State to continue partnering with the government in its efforts to build a more prosperous, peaceful, and economically vibrant state for present and future generations.



The councillor concluded by congratulating Governor Abiodun once again on the prestigious recognition, describing the award as not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for the people of Ogun State, whose collective aspirations continue to be advanced through purposeful and responsive governance.

Osun 2026: Coalition Alleges Plot to Destabilise State, Warns Against Emergency Rule





A Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance has alleged that there are plans to trigger insecurity in Osun State ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in a bid to justify the declaration of a state of emergency.



Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the National Coordinator of the Coalition, Comrade Declan Ihekiare, and Secretary, Olalekan Johnson, claimed that credible intelligence suggested a coordinated plan to create unrest that could lead to the suspension of democratic governance in the state.



According to the coalition, the alleged objective of the plot is to remove the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke and influence the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election.



The group also alleged that politically sponsored violence had already begun in parts of the state, claiming that thugs had attacked motor parks, disrupted commercial activities and created fear among residents.







It further alleged that some police officers had failed to act impartially by allegedly protecting political thugs instead of preventing violence.



The coalition accused the Osun State Police Command of failing to respond adequately to reports of political violence, urging security agencies to remain neutral and ensure the protection of lives and property throughout the election period.



The group, however, did not provide evidence to substantiate its allegations during the press conference.



Calling on the Federal Government, the coalition urged authorities to ensure that security agencies remained professional and impartial in the discharge of their duties and to resist any attempt to undermine constitutional governance.



It also appealed to political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and avoid actions capable of inciting violence.



The coalition further called on the international community, including the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, European Union, the United States and the United Kingdom, to closely monitor developments in Osun State ahead of the election and support efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.



The group said it was prepared to mobilise Nigerians through peaceful and lawful means against any attempt to subvert democracy or impose emergency rule in the state.



It also warned that individuals found to be involved in sponsoring or carrying out political violence should be held accountable under the law.



The coalition maintained that the people of Osun State should be allowed to freely elect their governor without intimidation, violence or unconstitutional interference.

THE MAN IN ROTIMI MAKINDE’S SHOES By Pastor Tobi Lazarus, B’OMODE O Ku Vanguard



There are shoes in politics that no ordinary man can wear and still breathe. Rotimi Makinde from Ile-Ife has been wearing that shoe since 2015. Through 2019, through 2023, and now into 2026, he has walked through betrayal, discrimination, embarrassment, and a draining of fortune inside the same house he helped to build. Many remain complacent in comfort, but he sat on the mat while those he commissioned into politics were seated on chairs. He served as board member while sons of his lieutenants were made directors. The same structure that injured his heart with a kidnapped experience and almost cost him his life, and never spared his brother’s life, never looked at his side. A lesser man would have broken, or worse, become bitter.

But bitterness was never an option for Makinde. He stayed because this was never about him. It was about the market woman in Osogbo who needs someone to speak for her. It was about the Ife youth looking for opportunity. It was about the belief that APC can still be a vehicle for service in Osun. While the wind of rejection blew, he kept his eyes on the people. “Igi giga ni afẹfẹ n fẹ julọ” — the tallest tree faces the strongest wind. He was pushed to the background in rooms where his voice once mattered, yet he did not return evil for evil. He was denied, yet he kept showing up for the grassroots. That is not weakness. That is a discipline that politics has almost forgotten.

The irony of his story cuts deep. The same hands he raised now look away. The same structure he watered now gives shade to others while he stands in the sun. Pain upon pain, loss upon loss, and yet he remains focused. He did not defect in anger. He did not go silent. He chose loyalty over convenience and service over self. In a time when principle is expensive and defection is cheap, Makinde picked the harder road. He decided that his name would not be written in the book of those who abandoned ship when the sea got rough.

Now in 2026, nothing much has changed on the surface. He is still on the field. Still knocking doors. Still campaigning for APC. To some it looks like stubbornness. To those who know his heart, it is faith. Faith that loyalty tested by fire is the kind of loyalty a state can trust. Faith that a man who can be denied, injured, and still serve is a man who will not betray the people when power comes. That kind of character is rare, and Osun needs it now more than ever.

History will judge this season with clear eyes. The question before APC and before the people is simple. Will we continue to waste men who have paid with blood, pain, and patience, or will we honor those who refused to break? Not many can wear Rotimi Makinde’s shoe and remain calm. Not many can sit on the mat, carry that weight of memory, and still smile for the people. He does. And that, more than any title, is what leadership looks like.

_Pastor Tobi Lazarus
B’OMODE O Ku Vanguard_

Ajiran Community Protests at SCID Panti, Demands Release of Akanbi’s Lexus 600 and Case Documents





LAGOS — Members of the Ajiran Community in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Panti, calling for the immediate release of a Lexus 600 SUV belonging to Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, as well as Certified True Copies of the investigation report and case file.



The protesters said they were at the command to meet the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge, Dayo Akinbisehin, over what they described as the unjust withholding of their kinsman’s vehicle and official documents after investigations had been concluded.



According to the protesters, counsel to Mr. Akanbi, Adedotun Ajulo, Esq., had informed them that the police were refusing to release the Lexus 600 despite the fact that the vehicle was not connected to the allegation against Akanbi.















They also expressed dissatisfaction that the CTC of the investigation report and the case file had not been released. The community alleged that Mr. Akinbisehin appeared to be working with “interested parties” to suppress evidence against Akanbi.



“Mr. Akanbi is constitutionally entitled to the CTC of the case file to enable him prepare for his defence,” one of the protesters said.



During the protest, the community presented a letter to the DC giving him a 7-day ultimatum to release the vehicle and the requested documents.



Officers of the command addressed the protesters and assured them that their demands would be looked into and met.



The protest ended peacefully with no breakdown of law and order.

Coalition Alleges Frame-Up Against Akanbi in Ajiran Murder Probe, Seeks Independent Investigation



A coalition of civil society organisations has called for an independent judicial review of the investigation into the killings of Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye in Ajiran, Lagos State, alleging that the prosecution of Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi is based on a fabricated case.

Addressing journalists in a statement, Ayodeji ologun, Kolawole Emmanuel, Samuel isijola, who spoke on behalf of the coalition alleged that the police investigation was manipulated to implicate Akanbi while shielding the actual perpetrators of the crimes. It also accused some civil society groups of attempting to influence public opinion in support of the ongoing prosecution.

According to the coalition, video-recorded interrogations of two suspects, identified as Yusuf Ismaila, also known as "Bariga," and Safiu Fatai, alias "Fabo," indicated that the killing of Sheriff Salami stemmed from an alleged cult rivalry.

The group claimed the suspects, during their initial interrogations, did not mention Akanbi or link him to the murder. It further alleged that both suspects denied involvement in the killing of Prince Ademola Akinloye.

The coalition also argued that travel records showed Akanbi was outside Nigeria during the periods when the two killings occurred, raising questions over allegations that he sponsored the attacks.

It further alleged that subsequent interrogations conducted in February 2026 were aimed at compelling the suspects to implicate Akanbi, describing the exercise as an attempt to build a case against him.

The group linked the development to an alleged dispute over community land in Ajiran, claiming Akanbi became a target after local youths opposed the sale of communal land.

The coalition also questioned aspects of the investigation into the death of Prince Ademola Akinloye, including the absence of an autopsy, the handling of the deceased's mobile phone and the subsequent sale of his farm.

On reports that Akanbi was missing from custody, the coalition dismissed the claim, insisting that he remains at a medical facility in compliance with a court order placing him under police supervision due to his health condition.

The coalition urged the Inspector-General of Police to establish an independent panel to review the entire investigation, particularly the handling of evidence and the circumstances surrounding the prosecution of Akanbi.

It also called for an investigation into what it described as alleged land-related interests connected to the case and requested that the Police Service Commission investigate the conduct of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Moshood Jimoh in relation to the investigation.

In addition, the coalition appealed for Akanbi's release on bail, citing his health condition, and urged the judiciary to ensure that his trial is conducted fairly and without external influence.

The coalition maintained that justice for the victims should be pursued through a transparent and impartial investigation, while calling on relevant authorities to address the issues it raised.

The Nigeria Police Force has previously maintained that its investigation into the Ajiran killings followed due process. The allegations made by the coalition have not been independently verified, and those mentioned in the statement had not publicly responded to the latest claims at the time of filing this report.

APC Leaders Unite in Yewa North, Vow Landslide Wins in 2027 Elections

By Our Correspondent



JOGA ORILE, OGUN STATE — Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yewa North Local Government have intensified preparations for the 2027 general elections, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring decisive victories for the party across all elective positions through sustained grassroots mobilisation, unity, and strategic engagement.

The renewed resolve emerged at a strategic meeting of political associates and supporters of the Ogun State Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi, held in Joga Orile. The gathering was jointly convened by former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Suraju Ishola Adekunbi, and Engr. Tope Kuyebi.

The meeting drew a large turnout of party leaders and stakeholders, including the Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, Dr. Samuel Akinbode; Member representing Yewa North II State Constituency, Hon. Wahab Haruna; APC candidate for Yewa North I State Constituency, Hon. Awayeti Sarafadeen; Yewa North APC Chairman, Chief Gabriel Adeosun; Elder S.M.A. Akinyemi, as well as women leaders, youth representatives, ward executives, grassroots mobilisers, and other party faithful.

















Addressing the gathering, Omoniyi urged members of the party to remain united, disciplined, and committed to the ideals of the APC, stressing that the success of the party in the 2027 elections would depend largely on effective grassroots mobilisation and collective responsibility.

He noted that the APC had continued to strengthen its structures across Ogun State and expressed confidence that the party's candidates would enjoy widespread acceptance among the electorate because of their capacity and commitment to good governance.

According to him, "Victory is achieved through unity, hard work, and sustained engagement with the people. We must continue to strengthen our structures at the grassroots, remain focused on our common goals, and work together to ensure that the APC records overwhelming victories in the coming elections."

Omoniyi pledged to mobilise massive support in Yewa North and beyond for the re-election of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the election of the APC governorship candidate in Ogun State, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), Senatorial candidate Hon. Jimoh Ojugbele, House of Representatives candidate for Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency, Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI), as well as the party's House of Assembly candidates for Yewa North I and II State Constituencies, Hon. Awayeti Sarafadeen and Hon. Wahab Haruna.

In his remarks, former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adekunbi, described the meeting as one of several strategic consultations aimed at consolidating unity within the party and reinforcing its grassroots structures ahead of the polls.

He said the APC remained focused not only on winning elections but also on promoting its progressive ideology and development agenda among the people while strengthening internal cohesion across all wards in the local government.

"The objective is to keep our members united, deepen political participation at the grassroots, and ensure that every stakeholder is actively involved in the party's journey towards another successful election," he said.

Also speaking, the Yewa North APC Chairman, Chief Gabriel Adeosun, and the Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, Dr. Samuel Akinbode, called on party members to intensify mobilisation efforts, particularly by encouraging eligible voters to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

They stressed that the party must surpass its previous electoral performance by expanding its support base and sustaining active engagement with communities across the local government.

The leaders maintained that the APC had fulfilled its electoral promises through people-oriented programmes and infrastructural development, adding that such achievements would further strengthen public confidence in the party.

Several other party leaders who addressed the meeting assured members that consultations and strategic engagements would continue in the coming months to consolidate party structures, attract more supporters, and enhance participation among women, youths, and grassroots stakeholders.

The meeting ended with a unanimous commitment by party leaders and supporters to work collectively towards securing comprehensive victories for the APC in Yewa North, Ogun State, and at the national level during the 2027 general elections.

Ajiran Community Residents Protest, Demand Investigation of Babajide Akinloye Over Prince Ademola’s Death

Ajiran, Lagos – July 18, 2026 – Residents of the Ajiran Community on Saturday staged a peaceful protest, calling on the Nigeria Police Force to investigate allegations surrounding the death of Prince Ademola Akinloye, who was killed in August 2024.

The protesters marched through Ajiran and neighboring communities carrying placards and chanting slogans demanding justice for the late prince. They urged law enforcement authorities to investigate Babajide Akinloye over his alleged connection to the circumstances surrounding the death of his younger brother.

The demonstration follows recent claims made by social media activist Martins Ose, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), who alleged that Babajide Akinloye was the last known person to contact the deceased on the day of the incident. According to the activist, Babajide allegedly summoned Prince Ademola to the palace, and the deceased was reportedly attacked and killed while on his way there.

The protesters also referenced allegations that, two days after the incident, Babajide Akinloye swore to an affidavit to facilitate the release of the deceased’s body without an autopsy being conducted. They further claimed that about seven days after the death, he allegedly applied for the release of the deceased’s mobile phone from the police, a move they believe hindered further investigation into the case.

Another issue raised during the protest was the alleged sale of farmland previously operated by the late Prince Ademola. According to the protesters, the property was sold approximately two months after his death by Babajide Akinloye, which they argued should form part of any comprehensive police investigation.

Many of the demonstrators wore shirts and caps displaying photographs of Babajide Akinloye and Aare Bashiru Fakorede, accompanied by inscriptions calling for both men to be investigated.

The protesters also alleged that Aare Bashiru Fakorede has used his influence to shield Babajide Akinloye from investigation through the office of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Lagos. These allegations have not been independently verified, and no official response had been issued by the individuals named at the time of filing this report.

In addition to demanding justice for Prince Ademola, the protesters called for the release of Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, whom they described as innocent and allegedly being victimized in connection with a land dispute.

Placards displayed during the protest bore messages such as: “Justice for Ademola,” “Bloodshed in the Palace,” “Cleanse Ajiran of Bloodshed Now,” “No Prince is Bigger Than Another,” “Prince Ademola Deserves Justice,” and “Babajide Must Be Investigated.”

As of the time of this report, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued an official statement regarding the protest or the allegations raised by the demonstrators. Likewise, Babajide Akinloye, Aare Bashiru Fakorede, and the office of the AIG Zone 2 had not publicly responded to the claims.

Lawyer Seeks Mandatory Legal Training for SCID DCP, Denies Leaking Police Investigation File







A legal practitioner, Adedotun Ajulo, counsel to Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, has called for mandatory legal training for officers appointed to head the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, arguing that the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the unit should only be occupied by officers with a sound understanding of constitutional and criminal law.



Ajulo made the call in a statement issued in response to a publication allegedly released on behalf of the Lagos State Police Command, which accused him of leaking what it described as a "classified" investigation file relating to his client.



Rejecting the allegation, the lawyer described the publication as "spurious" and "baseless," saying he was compelled to respond because the issues raised extend beyond his person and affect the administration of criminal justice in Nigeria.



According to him, the controversy underscores the need for senior police officers heading investigative formations to undergo compulsory legal training in criminal procedure, constitutional law, the law of evidence, disclosure obligations and fair hearing before assuming office.



Ajulo argued that the office of the DCP, SCID, Panti, is not merely administrative but serves as the nerve centre of criminal investigations in Lagos, with decisions that directly affect the liberty and constitutional rights of citizens.



"The occupant must possess not only investigative experience but also a sound appreciation of the constitutional and statutory safeguards governing criminal investigations and prosecutions," he said.



The lawyer maintained that he had discharged his duties as counsel to Akanbi in accordance with the Constitution, the Administration of Criminal Justice Law and the Rules of Professional Conduct for legal practitioners.



He also alleged that his client had been subjected to degrading treatment while in police custody following his arrest on April 17, 2026, including prolonged restraint with hand and leg chains and detention under poor conditions until the reported intervention of the Inspector-General of Police.



Ajulo said the allegations warrant an independent investigation by the Police Service Commission.



He disclosed that after police concluded their investigation and forwarded the duplicate case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the defence formally requested Certified True Copies of the investigation file, witness statements, investigation reports and other relevant documents to prepare for trial, as well as the release of his client's Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle.



According to him, the requests were denied.



He, however, claimed that substantial portions of the investigation report later appeared on various media platforms, creating what he described as a contradiction in the police's position.



Ajulo dismissed claims that he leaked a classified file by attaching documents to an application before the High Court, insisting that the documents relied upon had already been circulating on social media.



"There is nothing 'classified' about an investigation file relating to an accused person whose trial has commenced before a court of competent jurisdiction," he stated.



He argued that Section 36 of the Constitution guarantees every accused person adequate facilities to prepare a defence, including access to materials the prosecution intends to rely upon.



The lawyer described as troubling what he called the refusal of the investigating authorities to provide certified copies of the documents to the defence while the same materials allegedly became available to third parties.



He said his legal team would invite judicial and oversight authorities to examine how portions of the investigation file allegedly found their way into the public domain during the pendency of the investigation.



Ajulo further maintained that the matter raises broader concerns about the understanding of constitutional safeguards by senior police officers overseeing criminal investigations.



He said mandatory legal education for senior investigators would strengthen criminal investigations, improve prosecutions, reduce civil liability against the Nigeria Police Force and enhance public confidence in the justice system.



The lawyer reaffirmed his commitment to defending his client within the bounds of the law, adding that appropriate judicial processes would be initiated to challenge any action considered to undermine constitutional guarantees or the fair administration of justice.



The Lagos State Police Command had reportedly accused Ajulo of leaking a classified investigation file, an allegation he firmly denied in the statement.

Ogun Forestry Commissioner, Oludotun Distributes Free LNG to Over 100 Residents to Cushion Economic Hardship



By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo









In a renewed demonstration of his commitment to improving the welfare of the people, the Ogun State Commissioner for Forestry, Engr. Taiwo Oludotun, has distributed Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) valued at ₦3,600 each to more than 100 beneficiaries free of charge as part of efforts to ease the economic burden facing residents.



The empowerment initiative, which attracted beneficiaries from different communities, was designed to provide immediate relief to households grappling with the rising cost of living while encouraging the adoption of cleaner and more efficient cooking energy.



Speaking during the distribution exercise, Engr. Oludotun said the intervention was borne out of compassion and the need to support vulnerable members of society during challenging economic times. According to him, the gesture reflects the government's people-centered approach to improving the standard of living of residents through practical and impactful initiatives.



He noted that access to clean cooking energy remains essential to household well-being and environmental sustainability, adding that the free distribution of LNG would not only reduce the financial burden on families but also promote safer and cleaner domestic energy use.




"This initiative is our modest contribution towards reducing the hardship being experienced by many families. We understand the challenges people are facing, and we believe that every little support can make a meaningful difference," he said.



The commissioner further encouraged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the gas while adhering to all necessary safety precautions in handling and storing LPG/LNG cylinders. He reiterated his commitment to supporting programmes that directly impact the lives of the people and contribute to sustainable development.



Many of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as timely and thoughtful. They noted that the cost of cooking gas has become increasingly difficult for many households to afford, making the free supply a welcome relief.



One of the beneficiaries said the intervention would enable families to redirect scarce financial resources to other pressing needs, while another described the commissioner as a leader who has demonstrated concern for the welfare of ordinary citizens.



Community leaders and stakeholders who witnessed the exercise also commended Engr. Oludotun for the humanitarian initiative, urging other public office holders and well-meaning individuals to emulate such acts of generosity aimed at supporting the less privileged.



The distribution exercise concluded with beneficiaries receiving their allocations in an orderly manner, amid expressions of appreciation and goodwill. The initiative has been widely described as a practical intervention that not only addresses immediate household needs but also reinforces the importance of responsive and compassionate leadership.



Observers believe that such community-focused programmes will continue to strengthen public confidence in governance while providing much-needed relief to citizens navigating the prevailing economic challenges.