₦airaland Forum

Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP Denounces Defamatory Report, Affirms Commitment to Legal, Ethical Standards

Lagos, Nigeria – June 12, 2025

Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP has categorically condemned a defamatory article published by Sahara Reporters on June 11, 2025, titled: “Tinubu-Linked Alpha Beta Consulting Pays N400,000 Gratuity After 20 Years Of Service, Hands Millions, Top Contract Jobs To GMD Loyalists.”

In an official statement signed by the Head, Human Capital Management, the firm described the publication as “malicious, unfounded, and grossly misleading,” dismissing the allegations as a “coordinated attempt to distort facts and damage the good reputation built over the years.”

“This is not a whistleblower account,” the statement says. “It is a calculated and deliberate effort to defame individuals, misinform the public, and inflict reputational damage.
The assertions in the report are not only false but constitute a deliberate misrepresentation of facts and a serious infringement on our legal rights.”

The organization firmly rejects all claims of nepotism, underpayment of gratuity, and alleged contract favoritism as baseless and misleading. It reaffirms that all staff exit procedures and benefit disbursements are conducted in strict compliance with internal policy, the Nigerian Labour Act, and global best practices.

“We foster a culture of transparency and open dialogue,” the organization affirms. “Every concern raised is being treated with the seriousness it deserves, and we remain committed to resolving all legitimate matters with fairness and speed.”

The firm reiterates its zero-tolerance stance toward any form of abuse, harassment, or unethical behavior. It further assures stakeholders that any reports of misconduct submitted through appropriate internal channels are addressed confidentially and in line with due process.

“We have commenced consultations with our legal counsel and reserve the right to pursue all appropriate legal remedies—both civil and criminal—against the perpetrators of this orchestrated defamation,” management warns.

The firm urges clients, partners, and the general public to disregard the publication and rely solely on verified communications from Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP.

“This organization is built on principles of integrity, accountability, and excellence,” the Head, Human Capital Management says. “We remain steadfast in upholding these values and will not be derailed by baseless attacks or faceless campaigns.”

Signed,
Mrs. Anjolaoluwa Ige
Head, Human Capital Management
Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP
Dated: June 12, 2025.

*When Culture Met Couture: Dapo Abiodun Dazzles as Chief Host at Ojude Oba 2025*

If Ojude Oba 2025 were a movie, Governor Dapo Abiodun played the lead role—not in competition, but in command. As the undisputed Chief Host, the Governor arrived not just to observe tradition, but to embody it—wrapped head to toe in resplendent Yoruba regalia that could make even the gods pause for a selfie.

No, he wasn’t gunning for best-dressed. And no, he didn’t ride in with a Balogun cavalry. But once he stepped into the Awujale Pavilion, it was clear—this man didn’t come to play, he came to slay… diplomatically.

His agbada? A masterpiece woven in royal tones, kissed by embroidery that shimmered under the Ijebu sun like dew on a silk leaf. His cap? Tilted with precision, announcing presence with presidential poise. From a distance, he looked like heritage personified, a cultural remix of leadership and legacy.

The crowd couldn’t get enough.

As the Regberegbe age grades danced and dazzled, and the Balogun families galloped in on stallions trimmed for television, Governor Abiodun watched like a proud director on a blockbuster film set. He wasn’t on stage, but every camera found him. He was the cultural compass in a carnival of colour.

The festival grounds? An open-air runway of ancestral drip. Beats dropped from talking drums like DJ sets, ululations cut the air like sound effects, and everywhere you turned, it was glamour seasoned with tradition. From gele game tight enough to rival Paris Fashion Week, to horsemen strutting like they just stepped out of a Nollywood epic—Ojude Oba 2025 was, in simple terms, a flex of heritage.

Governor Abiodun’s presence elevated the whole scene. He wasn’t just a political figure; on this day, he was the culture plug, the unofficial hype man of Ijebu identity. No political speeches. No stiff protocol. Just presence—warm, regal, and resonant.

And when he waved to the crowd? A thousand cameras blinked in gratitude.

His role as Chief Host wasn’t ceremonial—it was symbolic. It sent a message: This festival isn’t just about tradition; it’s about ownership, pride, and projecting Yoruba excellence to the world.

In an era where culture is the new cool, Ojude Oba 2025 was the Grammy Awards of Yoruba heritage, and Governor Abiodun came dressed like he already won Album of the Year.

So no, he didn’t come to compete.
He came to complete the picture.


*Tayo Mabeweje*
*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*

*“Culture Is Currency, Festivals the Mint – Abiodun Declares at Ojude Oba”*

At the confluence of heritage and hope—where colour, culture, and community converge in rhythmic harmony—Governor Dapo Abiodun has redefined the Ojude Oba Festival as more than a celebration. To him, it is “a living flame,” preserving the soul of the people while illuminating their collective path toward a more vibrant future.

Describing culture as both compass and catalyst, the governor declared: “Our cultural heritage is a powerful tool for national development.” He noted that festivals like Ojude Oba are no longer just seasonal events—they are “engines of economic motion,” “gateways to global visibility,” and “repositories of our cultural capital.”

Speaking beneath the regal skies of Ijebu-Ode, Governor Abiodun affirmed the festival’s alignment with his administration’s broader vision: “This celebration aligns seamlessly with our ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda. Festivals like Ojude Oba are critical in promoting the local economy, attracting global visibility, and strengthening our cultural capital.”

He likened Ogun’s cultural heritage to “a golden thread woven into the fabric of our state’s development,” with Ojude Oba standing as “a powerful symbol of communal harmony where faith, tradition, and modernity coexist under a single banner of identity.”

Elevating the festival to the status of a living, breathing legacy, he said: “Ojude Oba has grown into a living heritage—a torch lighting the way in an era marked by fragmentation and flux. It is a vibrant fulcrum of a beautiful culture—our pride, our value, and our continuity.”

Reflecting on this year’s theme, ‘Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future’, Abiodun called it “a declaration of intent, a compass pointing us to remain grounded in our values even as we reach for the stars.”

The governor highlighted the festival’s intergenerational appeal and its evolution into a platform for youth inclusion and diaspora engagement: “Ojude Oba has succeeded in capturing the imagination of our youths, both at home and across the seas.” Yet he was also pragmatic: “This festival has outgrown this place, and we must do something about it.”

Describing Ojude Oba as “a dynamic entity of tourism, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship,” he pledged to scale its reach and reimagine its infrastructure for broader international attention. “This is no longer just a gathering,” he asserted. “It is a platform—an emblem of Ogun’s potential and Nigeria’s cultural wealth.”

Concluding with imagery that fused tradition with economic relevance, Governor Abiodun declared: *“Culture is currency, festivals are the mint, and the people are its custodians. Ojude Oba is no longer just a celebration—it is a cultural lighthouse, guiding our people with pride, drawing the eyes of the world with dignity, and illuminating the path to our shared future with the

*Tayo Mabeweje*
*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State**

Ede Poly launches Journal to drive Global Research, innovation

The Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, has once again demonstrated it's commitment towards academic excellence and global research prominence through the recent official launch of REACT Journals.

REACT, is a multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed publication platform aimed at amplifying cutting-edge research across engineering, environmental sciences, humanities, and social disciplines.

The landmark initiative, sanctioned by the institution’s visionary Rector, Engr. Dr. Sani Man Yahya (FNSE), underscores the Polytechnic’s enduring commitment to fostering research that is sustainable, visible, and reproducible (SVR).

According to Ag. Director, Information, Protocol and Public Relations of the institution , Sola Lawal, in a statement said the journal is set to bridge the gap between theory and practice while positioning Federal Polytechnic Ede alongside leading international research publishers.

Meanwhile, at the helm of this groundbreaking development was Dr. Ben Festus (FNIST, FIPMD, MnistP), the Acting Director of the Directorate of Research and Development, whose leadership and foresight laid the foundation for the REACT brand.

"Dr. Festus had conceptualized REACT as a credible scholarly outlet for academics, professionals, and policy advocates seeking innovative and impactful research dissemination.

"REACT is more than just a journal; it is a response – our institution’s response – to the global call for more inclusive, relevant, and practice-oriented research,” said Dr. Festus. “With dedicated editorial teams and a streamlined review process, we are poised to contribute meaningfully to national development and global scientific dialogue.

"Following this official launch, a call for proposals will be issued immediately. All submitted manuscripts will undergo rigorous peer review in line with international standards. Each published article will be assigned a unique DOI via Crossref to ensure traceability, citation, and indexing in major scholarly platforms.

" Our long-term vision is to have REACT journals indexed in databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, while also expanding our portfolio to include additional discipline-specific journals. I am pleased to confirm that REACT has already secured both online and print ISSNs from the National Library of Nigeria", the statement read.

The journal currently hosts two flagship publications:
•REACT Engineering, Environmental and Applied Sciences (REEAS)
.REACT Humanities and Social Sciences (RHASS)

Both journals will be published biannually in print and online formats, ensuring broad access and engagement with the academic community and society at large.

Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency: Pelumi Olajengbesi remains our candidate - Jackson Lekan Ojo

A leading Security Expert in Nigeria and global affairs analyst, High Chief Jackson Lekan Ojo, has declared that the consensus among prominent individuals in Obokun /Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State is on Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi to represent the constituency in the green chamber come 2027.

He said this decision was predicated on the principle of equity , fairness and justice, adding that while Obokun has been producing representative for over twenty years, it is always logical and rational for Oriade to produce representative this time around.

According to Ojo, unlike in other climes where Federal Constituency has only one Local Government, two local governments constitute the constituency.

The Security Expert explained that the age-long dominance of the constituency by Obokun has perpetually placed Oriade in the second fiddle and relegated it's people to the background.

He said ", while the incumbent representative of Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency, Hon. Oluwole Oke has really done well for the people of the constituency, it is always logical to make recourse to equity and fairness in any political consideration.

"Though he has not declared to anybody that he still contesting, moreso when he has defected to APC despite the great opportunities PDP gave him to use their platforms for about two decades, anyway, this is an issue for another day, meanwhile , Hon. Wole Oke is eminently qualified to contest for higher offices in the land, based on his wealth of experience and capacity.

"Going forward , therefore, Barrister Olajengbesi is a moral and social asset to our federal constituency. This is a philanthropist of the highest order.
He will be culturally, socially, and economically valuable to our people. The young man is coming to politics economically - self-made devoid of becoming a man going there for economics self building detrimental to the growth and development of the people he represents.

"Coming also on the platform of the PDP is an added advantage to his victory because of the near magical performance of the governor Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke in the state.

"What I am saying in particular is that our constituency comprises of two local governments, and Hon. Wole Oke from Obokun has been representing us since over twenty years. It is just like what happend in 1999, when there was consensus among the power brokers in Nigeria to allow only candidates from the South West to contest the presidential seat, for the purpose of pacifying the Yoruba over the injustice done to MKO Abiola.

"In the same vein, we demand fairness and equity in this regard, to avert any friction or acrimony. It is on that note that we all throw our weights behind a vibrant, courageous and sophisticated personality like Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi from Oriade to represent the constituency.

"I want to clearly state here that the decision to support Pelumi Olajengbesi is beyond party lines and cultural divide, it is purely based on competence and fairness, both PDP and APC are ready for him and would massively support him".

You 're a leader of immense importance-Gov. Adeleke eulogises Dapo Abiodun on birthday

Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has congratulated his Ogun State counterpart and Chairman of Southern Governors' Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a leader of immense importance.

Honouring Abiodun's exemplary life of service, Adeleke acknowledged his bold vision for growth and enviable sense for excellence, adding that Governor Abiodun's remarkable leadership has engendered unprecedented progress for his state and the citizenry at large.

Adeleke, in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, further commended Prince Abiodun for his political sagacity in conflict management, thereby entrenching sustainable peace and tranquility in the state with resultant advancement in critical sectors of the state's economy.

He added that Governor Abiodun's distinct attributes of inclusive governance and non-violent culture have endeared him to numerous admirers across party lines.

"A hearty cheers to a leader of immense importance, His Excellency Governor Dapo Abiodun. Through Governor Abiodun, I've come to appreciate the worth of true friendship,* Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying in a congratulatory message.

"In six years as Governor, Dapo Abiodun has restored hopes and created a future of possibilities for the people of Ogun State. From the wise investment in bolstering the education sector to revamping public infrastructure for increased accessibility, Governor Abiodun showed his worst critic the power of good governance.

"As he marks a new age, I celebrate him for the visible impacts he has made over the years, and I also honour the creativity he has brought to governance.

"May God Almighty bless Governor Dapo Abiodun with good health and sound mind while also hoping for more years of impactful contributions to Ogun State and the nation as a whole", the statement read.

Egbe Bobagunte Honours Governor Dapo Abiodun on 65th Birthday and Two Years of Second Term

Ijebu Ode, Ogun State – May 29, 2025
Egbe Bobagunte Okunrin Akile-Ijebu has extended warm felicitations to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, as he marks his 65th birthday, which coincides with the second anniversary of his second term in office.

The congratulatory message was conveyed by the Giwa of the Egbe and Bobaseilu of Ijebu, Otunba (Giwa) Adesanya Yusuf, who described the governor—also the Bajipe of Egbe Bobagunte—as “a beacon of purposeful leadership and a symbol of progressive governance whose accomplishments continue to uplift Ogun State.”

Otunba Yusuf lauded Governor Abiodun’s impact in multiple sectors, noting that “our distinguished brother has demonstrated uncommon dedication to the growth and transformation of Ogun State. His achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and the digital economy are not only commendable but a testament to his visionary leadership.”

The Giwa further emphasized that the governor’s conduct exemplifies the values of Egbe Bobagunte, saying, “as the Bajipe of Egbe Bobagunte, Governor Abiodun makes us proud every day. His steady hands, consultative approach, and commitment to inclusive development continue to leave enduring legacies across the state. Indeed, he embodies the ideals and excellence our Egbe stands for.”

Offering prayers on behalf of the Board of Trustees and entire membership of Egbe Bobagunte Okunrin Akile-Ijebu, Otunba Yusuf wished the governor continued good health, strength, and divine wisdom in his service to Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

The Egbe joins the people of Ogun State in celebrating what it described as a significant double milestone, praising Governor Abiodun’s exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to progress.

Prince Dapo Abiodun was first elected Governor of Ogun State in 2019 and began his second term in May 2023. A respected son of Ijebuland, he continues to enjoy the goodwill of many socio-cultural and professional groups across the state.

Ogun State Reports the Lowest Increase in Food Prices - NBS



The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has identified Ogun State with the most modest year-on-year increase in food inflation.

This coincides with the bureau's designation of Benue, Ekiti, and Kebbi as the states facing the highest year-on-year food inflation rates in Nigeria.

According to the NBS's April Consumer Price Index, Ogun State also exhibited a decrease in food inflation on a month-on-month basis.

The report indicates that Benue recorded the steepest year-on-year food inflation rise at 51.76 percent, followed by Ekiti at 34.05 percent, and Kebbi at 33.82 percent.

In contrast, the states with the slowest year-on-year food inflation increases included Ebonyi at 7.19 percent, Adamawa at 9.52 percent, and Ogun at 9.91 percent.

When analyzing month-on-month trends, Benue, Ekiti, and Yobe emerged as the states with the most significant increases in food inflation.

For April, the month-on-month food inflation rates were recorded as 25.59 percent for Benue, 16.73 percent for Ekiti, and 13.92 percent for Yobe.

The surge in food inflation in Benue may be linked to the recent uptick in violence in the state, which has resulted in numerous fatalities and widespread displacement.

Conversely, Ebonyi (-14.43 percent), Kano (-11.37 percent), and Ogun (-7.06 percent) experienced declines in food inflation on a month-on-month basis.

Olumo Rock and the false claims of a revisionist


By Flourish Adeko

Ordinarily, there would have been no need to respond to the latest trash concocted by a lackey of an ex-Governor of Ogun State accusing Governor Dapo Abiodun of shutting down a prime historical monument, Olumo Rock, during the ongoing National Sports Festival (NSF). It is interesting that Ope Banwo, the self-styled Mayor Of Fadeyi and his ilk can talk glibly about the same festival they had dismissed with accustomed arrogance. Ahead of the Ogun 2024 festival which is already enjoying rave reviews in Nigeria and beyond, these agents of doom had declared, as if the public was unaware of the antics of their community of nitwits, that it would be no better than "a local inter house sports" and could not be compared the 2006 edition hosted under their principal. But curiously, the Commissioner for Sports under the Gbenga Daniel administration who was appointed by Governor Abiodun as and the chairman of Ogun 2024 Local Organising Committee, and who is now Director General of the National Sports Commission, had quickly dismissed the claim, saying that it was the 2006 event that would look like inter house sports compared to this year’s edition, which he said would be the best in sub-Saharan Africa. How accurate!!



Looking at the feelers from various quarters, Ogun 2024 is a masterpiece. The Opening Ceremony captured the national and global imagination, and many people are saying that they have never seen that type of opening even in any African event, and that it it can only be compared with the most glamorous and successful FIFA or Olympic events. A caveat, though: many people have come to realize that Ogun State is always first in everything and were therefore not surprised by the exceptionally beautiful ceremony.


The problem with ex-Governor Daniel and his dogs is the haughty belief that no one can surpass them. Yet it is only the Almighty God that cannot be surpassed. When Daniel was in government, he saw himself as a lion, dominating everywhere, and it is beyond evident that he and his lackeys are still living in illusion of grandeur. Perhaps that was why when Daniel came to the opening ceremony and saw the massive event and the creativity and accolades it garnered, he hurriedly left the stadium. He could not control himself, having seen something clearly beyond his mental horizon. He had never seen something so unique and beautiful.


To say the very least, the opening ceremony has been commended all over the world, with many people that they never thought that Nigeria could put up such an incredible ceremony. Besides, the games themselves are enjoying rave reviews, with such big sporting names as Segun Odegbami saying that Gateway 2024 has restored the original vision of the founding fathers of the National Sports Festival (NSF).



So now, in order to cast aspersion on the NSF, the perpetual naysayers cry babies turned attention to Olumo Rock, a facility shut down before the Games to give it and other monuments a massive facelift. Ahead of the NSF, the Ogun State Government struck up a partnership with Nike Art Gallery to establish a new exhibition space at the Olumo Rock Tourist Centre in Abeokuta, a move Governor Dapo Abiodun pointed out is aimed at boosting annual tourist visits from 20,000 to over 100,000. Receiving the founder of the Nike Art Gallery, Chief (Mrs) Nike Davies-Okundaye, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the Governor said: “I went to Olumo Rock about a month ago and I decided that we needed to do something about restoring Olumo Rock to its old glory. From statistics, Olumo Rock hosts about 20,000 people a year in its current state, and I felt that we could increase that to at least ten times." As part of the plan, an events hall within the tourist centre is being repurposed as a permanent gallery operated by Nike Art Gallery. The Governor listed attractions such as the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, the Ransome-Kuti family home, and the Adire market among key heritage spots to be showcased.

It takes utter abdication of moral authority for anyone who claims sanity to equate a temporary shutdown announced weeks before the NSF began and meant to facilitate repairs to a closure of the Olumo Rock to visitors during the NSF. Contrary to the barefaced lies and distortions by the spin doctors, Olumo Rock has not been shutdown to visitors as the NSF gets underway; it is just that the renovations are not complete. No one has been able to counter Governor Abiodun's argument that it is a historic site that must add value to the people of Ogun State and by the time Governor Abiodun is through with Olumo Rock, it will be second to none globally, just like the Ogun Adire industry is second to none. Speaking of adire, thousands of fabrics have been sold in less than a week, and news reports say that the sellers have run out of stock. In his multi-pronged plan, the Governor is also looking at monuments such as Iwe Iroyin, the Kuti residence, Fela's residence and the Obasanjo library, monuments which were placed under renovation because of their pivotal place in touristic architecture.


Of course, the naysayers cannot stop writing out of mischief. They are never-do-wells who thrive in chaos and who are hurt that Dapo Abiodun continues to do a good job, opening up Ogun State to investments through good policies and infrastructure. In the coming weeks, the Governor will be commissioning so many roads. History has positioned him favourably. He cannot be deferred by lunatics and agents of destabilisation.

Flourish Adeko
SA new media
Ogun State

Ogun 2024 Has Restored Original Objective of National Sports Festival—Odegbami



Veteran sports icon and ex-Super Eagles great, Chief Segun Odegbami has lauded the organization and template of the ongoing National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, saying that it has restored the original objectives of the founding fathers, which was initiated in the aftermath of the Nigerian civil war to foster bonding and unity among Nigerians.

Odegbami, a Grand Sports Ambassador for the games, gave this commendation during an interview with TVC.

Lauding the vision of the Dapo Abiodun-led administration for the games, Odegbami said housing of athletes, transport logistics, and the provision of facilities during the 22nd edition of the festival were unique and would enhance the discovery of young talents.

He also lauded the Federal Government for integrating a contingent of young athletes outside of the state contingents to compete at the games.

He said: "The objective really is to compete; we are talking sports, so young people are back. In fact, the Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission, brought in a contingent of young, talented athletes, different from all the other athletes from the states, to come and compete with whatever the states brought together.

"That has brought focus to the discovery of young talents again, and you could see the celebration that this has caused.

"That team has started winning medals; they are not representing any state in the country. In the past, we used to have this shenanigan where states would go and hire athletes from different places, and so on, which diluted the products that we had.

"But now it appears that everything is going back to focus; all the athletes, over 12,000 of them, are housed in a village, so they are together.

"You can imagine what is going on there: true integration. Young people from different parts mingling, eating, and all of that.

"By the time they leave that place, it is eternal friendship, the original objective for which the games were set up.

"So little things like that are happening in the Gateway Games that were not there before, and this is helping us to restore those objectives for which the National Sports Festival was set up."

Odegbami, who recalled that his football career started at the NSF in the 1973 festival, said the festival gave him the opportunity to represent the country, adding that the organizers of Ogun 2024 had done a terrific job in structuring the festival along the same path of talent discovery.

"I was a young student; I was in school in Ibadan, and I was invited to play for the Western State team. I went in there, played my first international match, and realized that I was even good for the first time.

"I went to the festival, and after it, I was invited to the national team in December of 1973. That was the beginning. I was not part of the team that put this together. Whoever did it did a terrific job. I just came in two weeks ago when I was made Grand Sports Ambassador, and I have been looking at what is going on, and I must confess that I am amazed.

"It is like there was a vision, and that vision encapsulates what I had been thinking needed to be done to harness the opportunities that exist in this kind of game.

"The first is this: you see, the sports themselves, the running and jumping, are the least activities in the games.

"The greater activity is putting the festival together—where would they (the athletes) stay, where would they eat, how would they be transported, what kind of security would you need, and so on and so forth.

"That takes up almost 90 percent of this entire project. To put together those things is mind-boggling.

"Once you start focusing on those systems, you create an ecosystem: cultural, economic, and so on. So, for the first time, we are looking at developing an ecosystem out of these games," he added.

*Gateway Games 2024: A Golden Harvest of Economic Revival in Ogun State Under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Progressive Stewardship*

As Ogun State takes center stage in hosting the 22nd National Sports Festival—Gateway Games 2024—the unmistakable hum of economic vitality is resonating across its towns and cities. What began as a sporting event has evolved into a grand economic movement, rippling through the state’s social fabric and igniting a resurgence in trade, enterprise, and local investment. At the helm of this phenomenal success is His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON—whose visionary governance has elevated Ogun from a corridor of potential to a veritable powerhouse of growth and opportunity.

Months before the opening whistle, the gears of the local economy began to turn. In preparation for hosting thousands of athletes, coaches, dignitaries, and spectators, the state witnessed a surge in infrastructural renaissance. Major facilities such as the MKO Abiola International Stadium, the Alake Sports Centre, and the Gateway International Stadium underwent expansive renovations—resurrected into world-class venues by the sheer will of a government determined to build legacies, not just structures.

This surge of development was far from cosmetic. It triggered cascading benefits: civil engineers, bricklayers, electricians, interior decorators, security personnel, transporters, and food vendors all found themselves drawn into a vortex of meaningful work. It was a silent revolution—livelihoods restored, businesses rejuvenated, and families empowered.

Governor Abiodun’s administration was deliberate in ensuring that economic prosperity was not confined to the corridors of construction. By disbursing ₦16.5 million to 33 sports associations, the government breathed life into a dormant ecosystem of athletes, trainers, physiotherapists, nutritionists, sportswear makers, and media content creators. Youth who once looked to sports as mere recreation now see it as a viable pathway to income, respect, and personal advancement.

Ilisan, home to the illustrious Babcock University and the designated Games Village, blossomed into a nerve center of commercial activity. Dormant buildings were transformed into short-term lodges, shops were restocked, and new enterprises—ranging from mobile clinics to tech-enabled food delivery—emerged overnight to meet the influx of visitors. What was once a quiet academic town has, in the last few months, become a thriving commercial district—a phoenix of enterprise rising through the fires of ambition.

Abeokuta, the state capital and epicenter of the Games, has not only served as the arena of sporting excellence but as a glowing canvas upon which economic creativity has flourished. Hoteliers have recorded record occupancy, transport operators have expanded fleets, local eateries have scaled operations, and even informal vendors—roasted corn sellers, water hawkers, vulcanizers—have reported historic daily earnings. This is trickle-down economics in its most authentic form.

But the Gateway Games 2024 is more than a temporary economic uplift—it is a seismic shift in the perception of Ogun State as a destination for investment, tourism, and culture. Visitors to the festival are also exploring the iconic Olumo Rock, the heritage-rich Itoku Market, and the scenic drive through towns and communities that now enjoy renewed prominence. Artisans are selling more Adire fabric than ever before, tour guides are fully booked, and cultural performers are receiving engagements for festivals months ahead.

The government’s meticulous planning ensured that every corner of Ogun tapped into the Games’ promise. From all nooks and crannies of the state, local councils were mobilized to prepare their environments, showcase their culture, and promote local content. This decentralized approach meant that the economic benefits were not hoarded at the center but radiated across the state like beams of prosperity.

Even in the digital space, Ogun youths have capitalized on content creation, social media marketing, and brand partnerships tied to the festival. Influencers, vloggers, and digital entrepreneurs are documenting the Games, advertising local businesses, and monetizing views. The governor’s administration has, in effect, seeded not only physical infrastructure but a digital economy rooted in talent and innovation.

The Gateway Games 2024 is not just a celebration of strength, speed, and spirit—it is a celebration of statecraft and strategic governance. Under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s enlightened watch, Ogun has proven that sports, when positioned rightly, can be a fulcrum for job creation, youth engagement, urban regeneration, and international positioning.

In an era where many see sports merely as entertainment, Ogun State has masterfully wielded it as an instrument of socioeconomic transformation. The energy, visibility, and financial stimulus generated by the Games are not momentary—they are the foundations of a new economic narrative.

Governor Abiodun has redefined what it means to host a national event. Beyond the ceremonies and the medals, he has given the people of Ogun something far greater: opportunity, empowerment, and hope. And for that, history will remember him—not just as a governor, but as a builder of futures.

*Tayo Mabeweje*
*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*

Provision of portable water remains one of our top priorities -Ogun Govt

The Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Water Resources, Hon. Damilola Otubanjo, has said that provision of portable water for the residents of Ogun state is one of the top priorities of the government.

Otunbajo made this known while speaking with newsmen during a statewide technical assessment tour to evaluate the functionality and efficiency of key water supply infrastructures in the state.

She explained that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun has intensified efforts to revitalize water facilities across Ogun State, as part of his strategic intervention towards transforming water accessibility and improve public welfare.

She said", The latest phase of the tour covered several communities in Ogun East Senatorial District, including Ijebu Imusin, Odonopa, Ijebu Ife, Iwopin, Itele, Oni, Ibiade, and Abigi. It follows earlier visits to Ijebu Ode, Ikangba, Yemoji, Ogere, and Ilisan, as well as a prior inspection of major water schemes in Ogun West Senatorial District, encompassing Ilaro, Owode, Ajilete, Iboro, and Ota.

"The overarching objective of the ongoing assessment is to ascertain the operational status of existing water facilities, identify systemic bottlenecks, and develop sustainable, forward-looking solutions for enhancing water delivery to both urban and rural populations".

She further emphasized the unwavering commitment of Governor Abiodun in ensuring universal access to safe and potable water.

Otunbajo continued", Access to clean water is not a privilege, but a fundamental human right, our focus is on impactful service delivery, ensuring we leave no community behind

"Preliminary findings from the tour indicate critical challenges such as deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate power supply, and a shortage of technical personnel across several locations".

On her part, the Consultant to the Governor on Water, Alhaja Muinat Jaji, who had earlier conducted independent assessments of each scheme and provided detailed recommendations noted that while some facilities are either operational or easily restorable, such as Odonopa in Ijebu Imusin, which requires a solar-powered borehole, others demand more intensive intervention.

She cited the Abigi Package Plant, commissioned in 1984 by Brigadier Oladipo Diya, saying the plant requires a new borehole and solar power infrastructure to function optimally.

She however , added that facilities in areas such as Itele, Iwopin, Ogun Waterside, and Ijebu Imusin were found to be in such a state of disrepair that a complete overhaul or reconstruction would be more practical than rehabilitation.

Ogun: As citizens earnestly wait for YAYI

The evergreen narrative of one of the most celebrated Great Thinkers of ancient Athens, Plato, known as 'Republic", unequivocally dissected the concept of leadership as part of the vision of a Just City.

While reeling out what determines appropriateness of responsibilities in relation to location of individual's endowment, Plato explained that He, whose endowment resides in his Chest is good as a Soldier, He whose endowment resides in his stomach is better as a Capitalist, and He who possesses his endowment right there in his Head is qualified as the Real Leader, who has the necessary and required wisdom, understanding and capacity to promptly and consciously respond to the plights and aspirations of his people and accordingly better their lot without blemish.

He called this individual a 'Philosopher King' who is free from personal desires and biases, but work selflessly to make people happy and support them to attain their utmost potentials irrespective of their status and pedigree.

Obviously, the character and leadership disposition of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (YAYI) in the Nigeria's political space and his State of Ogun undoubtedly adjudge him as a philosopher king and a Real Leader of clear sensitivity, compassion and capacity to build a 'A just City '.

A 'Just City' in this contest is the Gateway State. Many have argued that the intensity of zeal for transformation in Senator Solomon Adeola is uncommon and rare to come by in the Nigeria's political arena, while his brilliance in governance and public policy is awesome and inspiring.

Sincerely, the endowment of YAYI, which practically resides in his Head resonates the entire Ogun State in equal proportion; from his home in Ogun West to Ogun East and Ogun Central, every political discussion revolves around YAYI and his political mastery.

This political mastery encompasses his consciousness for people's wants and needs at a particular point in time, his noiseless and direct impacts in homes, villages and towns across the state and among people of diverse backgrounds and political affiliations.

Many have suggested that what gives YAYI prominence in the political space of Ogun State is the unfortunate experience of the people in the hands of insensitive and uncaring leaders in the past. They maintained that the long absence of passionate and committed leaders in the state responsible for the wide acceptability of Senator Solomon Adeola in the entire state and across different divides.

Unarguably, as no time had the State witnessed this level of consensus in thoughts and opinions among the people on any politician, the story of YAYI has added a new chapter to the political history of Ogun State and will definitely remains so.

The Chairman Senate Committee on Appropriation has dwarfed many of his colleagues around the country with his massive and consistent empowerment programmes, not to talk of the South West and Ogun State, he has demonstrated capacity and great compassion for the people.

The level in which Senator Solomon Adeola had gone in supporting the administration in Ogun State in the area of construction of roads and provision of street lights and other amenities in rural areas and urban centres is highly commendable, it has indeed given credence to the popular maxim that", A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way".

Meanwhile, the yardstick of assessment and pattern of feedbacks on Senator Adeola YAYI remain the same in Lagos State where he had served before and presently across the nooks and crannies of Ogun State ditto the National Assembly, as a former member of the House of Representatives and now a ranking Senator in the Red Chamber.

Of course, the voices are very loud, reverberating and convincingly continuous, without recourse to sentiment and predilection of any form, it is clear and simple, and basically calling on Senator Solomon Adeola Olamilekan YAYI to lead them with courage, compassion and consistency comes 2027.

These are voices of no other people than the good people of Ogun State. Though, calm in their posture but ideologically agitated in their stance, as they earnestly wait for YAYI.

'Sina Olamide writes from Igbogila

Gateway Games 2024: Positioning Ogun State as Nigeria’s Gold Standard in National Sports Festival Hosting

By Tayo Mabeweje

The 2024 Gateway Games, slated to hold from May 16 to May 30, 2025, is more than a convergence of athletes—it’s a masterclass in destination branding, strategic planning, and event orchestration. Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Ogun State is not just preparing to host a sporting event; it is activating every element of public relations, advertising, and the full marketing mix to deliver a National Sports Festival of world-class standard.

At the heart of these preparations is the Local Organising Committee (LOC), empowered by the Governor’s clear directive to raise the bar and set a new national benchmark for National Sports Festival hosting. The LOC has worked relentlessly to harmonize all sectors—sports development, hospitality, infrastructure, security, culture, and communications—into one synchronized system aimed at delivering a seamless and memorable experience for all.

Ogun State has redefined the “product” beyond sports. The 2024 Gateway Games will offer a well-curated blend of world-class competition, cultural immersion, digital innovation, and entertainment. Every touchpoint—from the athletes' village to fan zones, opening ceremonies to the award presentations—is being designed to evoke pride, unity, and unforgettable moments. The core of the product is not only the medal chase but the holistic experience: the vibrancy of the ceremonies, the friendliness of the people, the sophistication of logistics, and the sense of order that distinguishes a premium event.

From the central coordination center to the decentralized venues and logistics routes, the entire festival architecture is built around accessibility, convenience, and professionalism. Shuttle systems, entry and exit flows, accommodation layouts, and media zones are all tailored to ensure seamless interaction between event organizers, spectators, and participants. This environment is not a static location—it’s a living, breathing network of readiness, designed to support peak performance and spectator satisfaction.

A multi-tiered promotion campaign is in full swing, leveraging traditional media, digital platforms, influencer partnerships, and experiential activations. Billboards, social media teasers, countdown features, sports journalism tie-ins, and radio jingles are already in circulation—building hype and anticipation. Strategic public relations efforts are highlighting key milestones, such as facility completion, sponsorships, and athlete endorsements, while media engagement protocols are ensuring positive press, effective rumor management, and real-time communication across channels.

From volunteers and athletes to protocol officers and cultural ambassadors, the people behind Gateway Games 2024 are being trained and mobilized to represent the highest standards of professionalism, hospitality, and integrity. Workshops on event etiquette, cross-cultural communication, and customer service have been prioritized. Every point of human interaction during the National Sports Festival is an opportunity to build goodwill and leave a lasting impression.

Ogun State is approaching this festival with the precision of a well-oiled machine. Accreditation processes, emergency response drills, waste management protocols, and data analytics for audience behavior have all been refined. A dedicated command and control structure will monitor real-time activities, ensuring rapid response to any disruptions and guaranteeing an event that flows smoothly from start to finish.

The investments in infrastructure—renovated stadiums, digital scoreboards, lighting systems, athlete accommodation, and branded signages—speak loudly of readiness. From branded merchandise to the aesthetics of the venues, Ogun State is building physical proof of its commitment to excellence and innovation.

By offering an accessible yet high-value experience for participants, sponsors, and spectators, Ogun State is redefining the cost-benefit proposition of National Sports Festival hosting. The pricing model—whether for vendor spaces, sponsorship packages, or fan engagement activities—is structured to deliver optimal returns on experience and exposure.

The 2024 Gateway Games is Ogun State’s bold statement to Nigeria and the world: we are ready, capable, and forward-thinking. With a strategic blend of PR, advertising, and marketing execution—driven by Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to excellence and the LOC’s efficient coordination—this National Sports Festival is not only a celebration of athletic prowess but a demonstration of what visionary leadership and meticulous planning can achieve.

This is not just a festival. It’s a blueprint. A cultural and logistical choreography in motion—crafted for legacy.

*Tayo Mabeweje*
*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*

DA: Defining Action. Delivering Assurance

In a world where leadership is often reduced to loud soundbites and fleeting headlines, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Executive Governor of Ogun State, stands as a steady lighthouse. Amidst the storm of political noise, he offers a beacon of purpose, planning, and quiet efficiency—a calm in the chaos.

From the moment he took office, Abiodun made it clear that his mission was not to chase personal glory but to sow the seeds of progress that would bear fruit for generations. He never needed to be in the limelight; the quiet hum of real work, the consistent rhythm of progress, spoke for him.

“When I signed the Oath of Allegiance and an Oath of Office, I solemnly did so beyond being a requirement for formal assumption of office,” he once said. “I hold it as a tripartite covenant between me and God, on one part, to serve Him and reciprocate His faithfulness through the journey so far by being a tool to bring the greatest good to the greatest number of Ogun State people, regardless of creed, gender, and political affiliation.”

Unlike other leaders who seek to make waves, Dapo Abiodun prefers to make ripples. He understands that governance is not about making noise but about making a difference. His leadership is rooted in careful thought, collaborative decision-making, and an unshakable belief in long-term impact.

His administration is a garden that grows steadily, not a fireworks show that burns bright and fades away. The seed of service, once planted, has blossomed through consistent effort and a strong belief in the power of small, deliberate steps. “It is not even in our character to seek attention,” Abiodun has said. “Coming from the private sector, where one’s performance is what speaks for him, I tell people that those that are benefiting from the people-oriented projects that we are implementing do not need those things advertised on billboards or newspapers. They will feel it, touch it.”

The foundation of Dapo Abiodun’s leadership is a simple but powerful philosophy: real change takes time. His decisions are like puzzle pieces, slowly but surely falling into place, creating a bigger picture of lasting development. Each policy he champions is built on the sturdy pillars of data, dialogue, and discipline. He sees governance not as a race but as a marathon—one that requires steady feet and clear vision.

“Let me assure all our people,” he says, “that our administration remains irrevocably committed to providing focused and qualitative governance that will create an enabling environment for public-private sector partnership which is fundamental to the creation of enduring economic development.”

Under his leadership, Ogun State has learned to listen before it speaks, reflect before it acts. His government has opened doors, welcomed new voices, and made room for collaboration with professionals, community leaders, and the youth. It’s a government where inclusivity is not just a policy but a practice, ensuring that every stakeholder has a seat at the table.

Every conversation with Dapo Abiodun is like a listening ear—attentive, respectful, and mindful. He isn’t just a leader; he’s a guide, someone who knows how to navigate the rough terrain of governance with the wisdom of experience.

Dapo Abiodun knows that true leadership is like a steady river—it carves its own path, regardless of the obstacles in its way. His administration is a testament to the power of consistency, the strength of continuity, and the value of long-term planning. His work doesn’t depend on the fleeting applause of the moment but on the silent, enduring satisfaction of progress made.

This stability has reassured investors, reassured civil society, and reassured the people. It’s like a strong tree whose roots go deep into the ground, creating an environment where innovation can grow, trust can flourish, and prosperity can blossom.

He also understands the importance of security, because without it, there can be no meaningful progress. “It is important that as a region, we share intelligence and see how to better secure our region,” he says. “There can never be any meaningful socio-economic development in an atmosphere of insecurity.”

What truly sets Dapo Abiodun apart is his unwavering sense of responsibility. He treats the office not as a title to be worn, but as a heavy mantle of trust. He has never been interested in grandstanding or showmanship. Instead, he lets his work—the tangible, everyday changes he brings—speak for him.

“I want to pledge to you that I will continue to look for ways and means to improve on your welfare, so that you will continue to be more intellectually and professionally built, so that you can hold your own anywhere you go in the world,” he has promised, showing his deep investment in the future of Ogun’s people.

As Ogun State moves forward, it does so with a leader whose strength lies not in the noise of the moment but in the quiet, steadfast work that builds a solid foundation for tomorrow. Prince Dapo Abiodun has become a symbol of the kind of governance people can count on—responsive, responsible, and resolute.

He may not shout, but he leads. He may not grandstand, but he stands firm. He is, in every sense of the word, defining action and delivering assurance.

*Tayo Mabeweje*
*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*

*Beyond Bricks and Books: Abiodun’s Quiet Revolution in Ogun Classrooms.*

When Prince Dapo Abiodun became the Governor of Ogun State in 2019, one of the first challenges he inherited was the crumbling state of public education. Classrooms across the state bore the scars of long-term neglect — leaking roofs, worn-out furniture, collapsed infrastructure, and a lack of basic teaching materials. For too many children, school was no longer a beacon of hope, but a daily battle with harsh learning conditions.

Determined to reverse this narrative, Governor Abiodun launched a quiet but resolute revolution — one that went beyond restoring structures to rekindling the purpose of education itself. With a clear commitment to reviving the future, he set out to restore learning environments, reenergize the teaching workforce, and reengage communities across the state.

Over 1,000 public schools were either renovated or rebuilt between 2019 and 2025. Once-derelict classrooms were transformed into bright, clean, and inspiring spaces, complete with desks, secure roofs, doors, and hygienic toilets. Rural communities that had long been forgotten began to witness the return of pupils to schools newly equipped with solar-powered lighting and functional facilities. The Governor explained that this was more than just infrastructure; “every school we touch is a promise to our children that they matter,” he said during the commissioning of one of the refurbished schools in the Ijebu axis, emphasizing that these efforts reignite futures as much as they rebuild classrooms.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ogun became a trailblazer with the introduction of the OgunDIGIClass initiative — an innovative e-learning solution that kept students learning during the lockdown through online platforms, television, and radio. It was a bold leap that showed the administration’s commitment not just to access, but to continuity and modernity in education.

Recognizing that classrooms are only as effective as the teachers within them, the Abiodun administration launched a bold teacher recruitment and deployment program. Through the “Teach for Tomorrow” initiative, over 5,000 trained teachers were posted to communities in dire need, bringing a new wave of energy, mentorship, and commitment into the public school system. Governor Abiodun put it plainly: “a great education begins with a great teacher,” reinforcing his belief that investing in people is as crucial as investing in physical structures.

But the Governor’s vision didn’t end with formal education. Realizing that a future-ready youth must also be skilled, his administration invested heavily in technical and vocational education. Skill acquisition centres across the state were revived and expanded, offering training in digital literacy, carpentry, tailoring, welding, mechanical work, and entrepreneurship — equipping thousands of young people with tools for job creation.

Tertiary institutions across Ogun State also saw critical interventions in infrastructure, funding, and governance. From hostels to laboratories, the administration’s reforms helped create a more supportive environment for higher learning, contributing to improved academic performance and pride among students.

One of the most unique aspects of the Governor’s educational approach has been its deeply communal foundation. Projects were designed and executed with the input and participation of local communities. Artisans built the furniture, engineers from within the state drew the designs, and town halls guided the decisions. “We build with the people, not just for them,” Governor Abiodun explained, noting that true and lasting change is made when every child, parent, and teacher feels a sense of ownership in the transformation.

More than a development story, this is a human one. In Ado-Odo, a girl who once studied under a tree now learns in a proper laboratory. In Remo, a young boy who once walked long distances to attend class now studies in a solar-lit classroom in his village. These transformations are not mere anecdotes — they represent lives reclaimed, dreams reignited, and futures redefined.

Governor Dapo Abiodun has quietly reengineered what it means to invest in education — not just as a sector, but as a legacy. His achievements go beyond bricks and books. They have restored confidence in public education, ignited aspirations in young minds, and laid a solid foundation for the future of Ogun State.

*Tayo Mabeweje*
*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*

Osun 2026: Performance not Party will ensure victory for Adeleke- APC's member, Jackson Ojo

A leading security expert in Nigeria and member of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Osun State, High Chief Olalekan Jackson Ojo, has declared that the incumbent, Governor Ademola Adeleke, would emerge victorious come 2026 gubernatorial election.

Ojo added that the sterling performance of Ademola in all sectors of the state economy, especially infrastructure would give him seamless victory over his opponents and not his political party.

Ojo was reacting to the gale of defections from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to the main opposition APC, the recent which was that of Member representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency in the State, Hon. Oluwole Oke.

The security expert said Governor Ademola has performed beyond the expectations of many, including his traducers with unprecedented impacts across the state.

He explained that despite the monumental achievements of the Governor, he has not borrowed a dime from anywhere to fund his numerous projects yet he continues to pay workers and pensioners as and when due.

He, however, described Oluwole Oke's defection as a mere jamboree with no adverse effects on the reelection of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

"The integral consideration by the electorate in any political environment is performance and not political party; and that is exactly what is going to play out in Osun during the governorship poll of 2026.

"Though I am a member of the APC from Imesi-Ile, but this Governor has greatly impressed me with the speed and manner he breaks unprecedented records in all sectors across the state.

"For instance, contrary to the claim of Wole Oke and his co-travellers, the impacts of his government in Obokun is uncommon, there are some areas I didn't expect any Governor to touch even if I become Governor myself but this Governor went ahead and made it happen.

"Obviously, the Governor has written his name in gold in the sand of time and definitely history will not forget him in a jiffy, this is a man that unlike his predecessors has refused to borrow a dime and continues to perform than those that dragged Osun State into humongous debt through dubious borrowing.

"It is my utmost delight that the people of the State recognise and appreciate his great performance, the fact that played out during the Workers' Day Celebration on May 1st, that unanimous endorsement by the state's workforce is unprecedented in the annals of Osun politics and I can assure you that personally beyond party affiliations, I will equally mobilize for the Governor to win his second term bid", Ojo said.

Gov. Abiodun Extols Remo Stars Over Unprecedented Victory

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has extolled the commitment and determination of Remo Stars Football Club on its victory over Niger Tornadoes, describing it as an unprecedented feat in the annals of Ogun State.

It should be recalled that the local football team won the first-ever Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title with a 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes on Sunday, April 27.

The Governor, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade said the team has sustained the inherent capacity Ogun State is known for, adding that their resilience and perseverance have really paid off.

Governor Abiodun added that Remo Stars has consistently pushed for the best with an enviable patriotic tendency since its formation.

He said the level of the team's dexterity and capacity earned it the 2024-2025 Nigerian Premier Football League title as well as its promotion to the elite league four years ago.

The Governor, therefore, implored other local clubs in Nigeria to emulate the degree of resilience and doggedness the team displayed to help promote Nigeria's local league to enviable heights.

"It is my utmost delight that the age-long perseverance and consistency of the Remo Stars Football team have eventually paid off at the national level and to the admiration of every Nigerian, including our amiable President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

"As the first privately-owned NPFL champions since 1996, who ceremoniously secured a place in the CAF Champions League, we commend the undiluted and unwavering determination of the players, the coaching staff, as well as the entire management.

"This is indeed the clear reflection of the profound trait of Ogun State as the first in all areas of success and our all-inclusive policy of transformation as enshrined in our ISEYA mantra," the statement read.

Gov. Abiodun Extols Remo Stars Over Unprecedented Victory

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has extolled the commitment and determination of Remo Stars Football Club on its victory over Niger Tornadoes, describing it as an unprecedented feat in the annals of Ogun State.

It should be recalled that the local football team won the first-ever Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title with a 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes on Sunday, April 27.

The Governor, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade said the team has sustained the inherent capacity Ogun State is known for, adding that their resilience and perseverance have really paid off.

Governor Abiodun added that Remo Stars has consistently pushed for the best with an enviable patriotic tendency since its formation.

He said the level of the team's dexterity and capacity earned it the 2024-2025 Nigerian Premier Football League title as well as its promotion to the elite league four years ago.

The Governor, therefore, implored other local clubs in Nigeria to emulate the degree of resilience and doggedness the team displayed to help promote Nigeria's local league to enviable heights.

"It is my utmost delight that the age-long perseverance and consistency of the Remo Stars Football team have eventually paid off at the national level and to the admiration of every Nigerian, including our amiable President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

"As the first privately-owned NPFL champions since 1996, who ceremoniously secured a place in the CAF Champions League, we commend the undiluted and unwavering determination of the players, the coaching staff, as well as the entire management.

"This is indeed the clear reflection of the profound trait of Ogun State as the first in all areas of success and our all-inclusive policy of transformation as enshrined in our ISEYA mantra," the statement read.

NAMA begins validation of Ogun agro-cargo airport for commercial flights


Officials of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), on Monday, carried out flight checks at the the Gateway International Airport, Ogun State, beginning the process for the commencement of commercial flights.



Speaking after conducting the check, the Manager, Flight Calibration Services, NAMA, Engr. Miri Selzing, said the aim of the check was to ensure that it aligned with the proposed procedures defined for the airport.




He said: "Our purpose for coming here is to check the proposed procedures that have been defined for the airport. This is a significant process and not something that can be concluded in a short time.



"Our visit is the beginning of the validation of the procedure. We have reviewed the procedures that have been drawn up, checked them in the air, and we will analyze them when we get back to our base. From there, we will be able to come up with recommendations and modifications where necessary.



"But physically, the airport looks very good. The runway, about four kilometers long—the longest in the country—is very impressive. The airport has a good terminal building; everything is fine, so it is a great job being done here."



The Manager commended the state government for establishing such an impressive airport in a very short time, calling for the installation of an Instrument Landing System and other navigational instruments to aid flight movements at the airport.



He said the validation of the procedure is to facilitate the arrival of aircraft at the airport, expressing hope that with the level of work done, it would become a destination for airplanes soon.



"The runway is long and large enough to accommodate any type of aircraft. The airport would handle diversions from Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin.


"We commend the Ogun State government for such a laudable project, and we are prepared to assist as more facilities are installed at the airport," the NAMA official concluded.



Also speaking, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, said the NAMA team has carried out the "23 and the 05" checks and identified the "waypoint," adding that once the flight check has been completed, it would be developed and made available on the Internet for easy access to the airport.



"This is one of the last elements we need to address to obtain commercial approval," the Commissioner noted.



Regarding the level of work done at the airport, the Works Commissioner said that while work on any airport around the world is an ongoing process, Gateway International Airport is 97 percent complete, as the control tower, ATC officers, fire fighters, and other necessary facilities have been put in place.

Abiodun Celebrates Christians at Easter

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated Christians in the state and Nigeria as a whole on this year's Easter celebration, even as he reiterated the commitment of his administration to forging ahead with its numerous developmental strides.

The governor, in his Easter message in Abeokuta on Sunday, also called on Nigerians to look forward to a brighter future in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The governor, who acknowledged the sacrifices of Christian faithful and the sanctification and purification they went through during the 40-day Lenten period marked by fasting and abstinence, prayer and reflection, and acts of charity amidst the economic and other challenges facing the country, said that the exercise would greatly assist in transforming the country spiritually and help it achieve great things.

He urged Christians across the country to continue praying for the government and fellow citizens and not allow evil people with diversionary tactics to prevail.

He added that just like Christ prevailed over adversity, Christians must continue to pray for the country to overcome its challenges.

Congratulating Christians and other residents of Ogun State, the governor said Easter represents renewed hope and aspirations, as exemplified by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

"As we celebrate Easter, a time-honored tradition that symbolizes renewal and hope, let us reflect on the profound lessons this holiday imparts. Easter, observed by millions, transcends its religious significance, offering valuable insights into the themes of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings.

"Easter commemorates the resurrection of The Lord Jesus Christ, the ultimate exemplar of sacrifice and submission to divine will. It is a season that invites us to look at the future with hope, enabled by God's boundless grace, and fully equipped with the resources of faith, love, and kindness for one another.

"Easter teaches us the significance of resilience and the promise of transformation. This season encourages us to embrace change and pursue personal growth. It invites us to reconnect with our values and to extend kindness to one another, embodying the very essence of community spirit.

"As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us carry forward the lessons of Easter, promoting unity and goodwill in our country, state, neighborhoods, and beyond.

"On our part, we will continue our developmental trajectory, which has put our state on a firm pedestal of development. We will continue to strive to provide the best for our people to raise their standards of living," he said.


E -Signed
Hon. Kayode Akinmade
Special Adviser
Information and Strategy
Ogun State Government

Hajj 2025: Ogun Govt Appoints Apelogun as Amirul Hajj, Other Welfare Committee Members


Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Board has appointed the Chairman of ACOMORAN in the state, Prince Adebayo Apelogun and thirteen others as welfare board ad-hoc committee members, to facilitate this year's pilgrimage to the Holy Land from the state.

According to a statement on Friday, Apelogun is the Amirul Hajj, while Shaekh Ishaq Olorungbebe will serve as the chairman.

Sheik Lawal Iskeel (Sugar), Sheikh Shile Rufai, Imam Sabeeq Aladi Ibrahim, Sheik Wasiu Raheem Balogun, Imam Abdul-Lateef Ismail Afolabi, TPL. Ogunfowora Kamoru Olayiwola, Alhaji (Imam) Hassan Tijani, Alhaji Hussein Oredipe Mustapha, Alhaji(Imam) Uthman Akewukanwo are members of the committee.

Others are: Alhaja Alarise Korede Fausat, Alhaja Egunjobi Kafilat Aderonke and Alhaja Jinadu Zainab Iyabode.

They were being charged by the board to discharge their obligations diligently with high level of commitment so as to ensure comfort and safety of pilgrims from Ogun State.

E signed.
Hon. Kayode Akinmade
Special Adviser,
Information and Strategy
Ogun State Government.

Wale Onifade’s agbero onslaught on Governor Abiodun

WERE it not for the bare-faced lies, distortions and slanderous statements that the piece titled “Rewriting History With Lies: Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Dangerous Obsession With Altering Facts,” purveys, there would have been no need for a response. For one thing, the piece is so acerbic, so bereft of logic and so painfully illiterate to warrant serious attention. But if experience in this clime is any indication, ignoring drivels such as this can be quite unwise, especially in the terrain of politics where certain individuals readily take advantage of the masses’ general discontent with the state of affairs in the country to launch baseless attacks on their principal’s political opponents with intent to foment public disturbance, incite violence and cripple the climate of peace in which such principals cannot thrive.

In the piece under reference, Wale Onifade, an attack dog of Chief Gbenga Daniel, ex-Ogun governor and senator representing Ogun Central in the National Assembly, purports to address Governor Dapo Abiodun’s alleged revisions of history but apparently because of his intellectual poverty, he does not broach the subject of history but merely rehashes the same old lies that he and his principal spun against the Governor ahead of the 2023 general election. For a writer supposedly writing on historical revisionism, Wale Onifade is astoundingly bereft of substance.

Now let’s cut to the chase. Onifade’s drivel is all about 2027. You see, there is apprehension in the camp of his principal that Governor Abiodun might contest the Ogun East senatorial seat, hence the Bolekaja/agbero pieces. The tactic is simple: de-market Governor Abiodun by raising issues already settled by the courts, including the Supreme Court. When, with Governor Abiodun’s support, Senator Daniel got the senatorial ticket he now enjoys, , Onifade and other attack dogs launched vitriolic attacks on him, but their efforts ended in futility, as the Ogun State electorate rewarded the Governor with a second term. Now, driven to desperation by the Governor’s rising profile, these moral midgets are in town rehearsing their familiar lies with a bold face. Onifade, like other Judases before him, gleefully references Governor Abiodun’s hesitation, during a Channels TV interview, about disclosing the details of his conversation with the then President Muhammadu Buhari and the subject of his academic qualifications, which was before the court at the time. What he and his paymasters would never mention is how they could not prove their case against the Governor’s academic qualifications at the election tribunal, the Appeal Court and the Supreme Court.


Because his intent is vile abuse, Onifade lies like Lucifer. Hear him: “Just days ago..Governor Abiodun, in his now familiar tone of historical distortion, stated that “Chief Olunloyo was a Grade A student during his 200 Level year in the University.” Fellow Nigerians, the statement ascribed to Governor Abiodun here does not occur anywhere in the Governor’s tribute to the late Dr Olunloyo. What the Governor said in his tribute titled “Omololu Olunloyo was highly distinguished even among geniuses”, written in his capacity as chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, is this: “Because of his exceptional brilliance, he succeeded in persuading the university to let him begin his studies at 200 level and graduated with First Class honours at age 26.” However, because he lacks integrity, Onifade crafted a statement and attributed it to Governor Abiodun. Unfortunately for him, even if Governor Abiodun had actually said “Chief Olunloyo was a Grade A student during his 200 Level year in the University,” there would have been nothing wrong with this statement. But hear the incredible claim that the pompous monkey now makes: “Chief Olunloyo graduated with a first-class degree from the University of London before most Nigerian universities were even established. There were no “levels” in his time — only academic years. That Abiodun, a sitting governor, would boldly make such a statement only reinforces the theory: he’s not just bending history — he’s bulldozing it.”

You see, when people make themselves slave of politicians just for a bottle of beer, they cannot fail to advertise their ignorance. The writer is saying that there was nothing like 100 or 200 Level in Nigeria before the 70s, but he is then generalizing this to foreign varsities. Did Olunloyo graduate from a Nigerian varsity? History tells us that as early as 1929, the University of Buffalo had begun using the 100-level designation for introductory courses, and it gradually spread across other universities, both in the United States and in Europe. Just how can anyone claim that UK universities did not know about the phrase, “100 Level” in the 60s? How can anyone be so ignorant?


In any case, even if Onifade’s claim were true, just how is Governor Abiodun, who is addressing a contemporary audience, distorting history by writing “200 Level”, which is the same as the second year in the university? Would a 1970 graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University be “distorting history” if (s)he tells a 2020 graduate, in a conversation, that (s)he is also a graduate of OAU, simply because the university used to be known as the University of Ife? By Onifade’s analogy, a person listing Chiefs of Army Staff in Nigeria who includes those of the 60s would be wrong, because the person called COAS today used to be known as Chief of Staff, Army! To make matters worse for the ignoramus, language, any language, is interpreted in context. That is why such a statement as “You are a big crook!” could be taken as a compliment in certain contexts.

Beyond Onifade and his paymasters’ huffing and puffing lies a tormented psyche. You see, Governor Abiodun’s achievements in various sectors have bruised their ego. Only last week, these political lepers wrote that the National Sports Festival, which is being hosted by Ogun State, will be like inter-house sports. Unfortunately for them, the chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Bukola Olopade, a man who was used to be a commissioner under Gbenga Daniel, now has a new portfolio as the chairman of the National Sports Development Commission, and has vowed to make Ogun 2025 a festival to remember.

The more these political lepers launch acerbic attacks on the people’s Governor, the more the Almighty keeps elevating him. Yes, it can be extremely painful for people long acclimatized to violence to see a Gentleman Governor ruling Ogun State without turning it into a theatre of violence marked by political assassinations. These vile individuals who thrive in chaos, the pestilential category of criminals that the Yoruba call arijenidimodaru, cannot come to terms with the fact that the Iperu-born prince who occupies Oke Mosan is not dancing to their senseless tune, and will never be stampeded into adopting the Machiavellian, totalitarian tactics of their principal who ran Ogun like a pirate and made the state notorious for mindless violence. Ogun people remember the souls cut down in cold blood and the many who escaped death by a whisker. They are happy with the man of peace steadily turning the state into a giant construction site while wailers like Onifade continue to advertise the utter darkness of their mind.

Seyi Bakare
Ogun media team.

Abiodun felicitates Dangote on birthday




Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated Africa's richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, on his birthday, saying he remains the pride of Africa.



The Governor, in a congratulatory message on Thursday, said Dangote has proven the inherent zeal, determination and entrepreneurship in Africa.



He said the business mogul's contributions to Nigeria economy and Africa at large can never be over-emphasized especially in the area of youth employment and corporate social responsibility.



Prince Abiodun, therefore, prayed for more fulfilled years ahead for him and requisite strength to carry on the path economic growth and development.



" I want to heartily congratulate my friend and brother, Alhaji Aliko Dangote on the occasion of his birthday, on behalf of the government and the people of Ogun State, I wish him more fulfilled years in sound health.


"May God Almighty continue to guide and guard him."

$150m Aluminium, Copper Ingots Plant Berth in Ogun, Set to Employ 500

The current influx of investors to Ogun State has yet to abate, as another recycling plant for the production of aluminium and copper ingots has been established in the state.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Neveah Ltd, Mr. Ibidapo Lawal stated this on Monday after a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Lawal noted that the multimillion-dollar recycling plant, when fully operational and at full capacity, would generate over $150 million annually and employ more than 500 people.

He said the plant would recycle aluminium scraps from car engines, cans, and other metals into ADC 12 and export them to car manufacturing companies in Asia, Japan, Indonesia, and a host of others.

He said: "The plant is situated in Mowe, and it will employ more than 500 people, thereby creating jobs locally and also contributing to the development of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole. It will account for about 2.53 per cent of the entire non-oil export for Nigeria.

"Initially, this project was meant to be situated in the north, but we chose Ogun because of its proximity to ports like Tincan, Apapa, and, of course, Lekki.

"Apart from that, you think in terms of capital appreciation. Unlike any other state, you look at the return you are going to get in terms of investment. Ogun is very close to Lagos, and you can see that the price of land and property keeps appreciating."

The Chief Executive Officer maintained that the availability of skilled labor and expatriates, infrastructure like a good road network, as well as an abundance of gas, led to the decision to choose Ogun State for setting up the business.

"Another thing is the availability of gas. If we set up our plant in another state, we would probably have to power our plant using diesel, but in Ogun State, gas is available, so it is cheaper for us," Lawal added.

He said his meeting with the governor was to brief him on the progress of work at the site and to seek his support for the successful takeoff of the plant.

"The governor was very happy and quite supportive. It is interesting to see a governor who is willing and ready to work with the people, promote investment, and care so much about the people. It was a very productive meeting," he said.

Youth Engagement: Governor's aide holds annual football competition in Kebbi

....dedicates tournament to Gov. Nasir Idris


The Special Adviser to Kebbi State Governor on Local Government Matters, Alhaji Lawale Na'Allah-Tola, has dedicated the 2025 annual football competition to Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, in recognition of his commitment to youth development.

The tournament, which was aimed at fostering peaceful co-existence among the youths of the state lasted for seven days of intensive football activities.

Na'Allah-Tola made this known on Monday at the end of the 2025 final match of the football competition held at Nassarawa Primary School near Zabarimauwa area, Birnin Kebbi.

According to a release made available to newsmen by the Chief Press Secretary to Kebbi State Governor, Ahmed Idris, the Special Adviser recalled that the competition was introduced in the year 2003.

He explained that the aim of establishing the football tournament was to entrench sustainable unity amongt the youths of the state by aggregating their diverse interests towards achieving a common goal.

Alhaji Na'Allah-Tola said", I have been sponsoring the tournament since 2003, this implies that the competition is now 22 years. However, this year's edition has been dedicated to the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, our thought leader and exemplary personality.

"This is with a view to streamlining sporting activities as well as redefining the tournament to accommodate more youths within our society".

He further expressed happiness over the performance of the players, saying that since the introduction of the tournament in the state, some players have been promoted to the level of local nation's league.

He then thanked the Governor for his consistent support to the youths, especially in sporting activities and other productive engagements towards building desired egalitarian society in the state.

Presenting a donation of N200,000 to the winners of the tournament, a younger brother to the governor, Alhaji Shehu Idris, commended the organiser for his foresight.

He described the tournament as an avenue of bringing people together irrespective of their differences, while promising to support Alhaji Na'Allah-Tola.

"Henceforth, I will takeover the sponsorship of the tournament", he asserted.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Pilgrims, Alhaji Zayyanu Sanka, applauded Na'Allah-Tola for giving the youth a sense of belonging and for engaging them in a very productive manner.

Sanka also donated N200,000 to the winners of the match.

At the end of the tournament, Arewa Pillars defeated Nasarawa United 3:1 to clinch the cup.

Again, Ogun govt accuses Fibiwoga family, Obatop Properties of land grab, warns them to steer clear of govt land

Ogun State Government, on Sunday, reiterated its warning to two suspected land grabbers, the Fibiwoga family and Obatop Properties, to steer clear of government-acquired land in the Odogbolu Local Government area of the state.

The Ogun State Government, which handed down this warning following the latter's reaction to the Thursday, April 3 statement by the Ogun State Ministry of Justice which it exposed their attempt to obtain government land by fraud, said it would not be stampeded or manipulated into yielding an inch of government land to land grabbers.

In a statement by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade ( SAN), the government pointed out that Ogun State’s vast land, industrial corridors, economic development zoning, and exclusive land proximity to Lagos, which have become a gold mine for the state and a magnet for investors, have also attracted land grabbers who use all sorts of methods to illegally acquire land.

These methods, Ogungbade said, include the manipulation of credible institutions such as the media, law enforcement, and the judiciary, without the full knowledge of those institutions.

Saying that Ogun State Government had not overruled the courts and could not do so, Ogungbade said the state is already taking steps to set aside the judgment of the Customary Court which Fibiwoga Family obtained by suppressing relevant facts in the case, adding that "corruption fighting back will not deter us from staunchly defending the government and refusing to be used as tools in the hands of oppressors or lawbreakers."

Providing a background to the issue, Ogungbade said: "The family brought us into this dispute when they wrote a petition alleging land grabbing against another family - Dada Osisi Family. It was at that meeting that we were first briefed on the issues.

"At the meeting of 3 April 2025 (which was recorded by the press), we made it clear that we were not in a position to decide ownership of the land and were not doing so. But we emphasised that we were notifying the parties that because even the State Government had become a victim of the land grab perpetrated by Fibiwoga Family.

"The public would also recall that in our press statement after that meeting, we advised the public to be wary of dealing with Fibiwoga Family, Obatob Properties Limited *and any other private person* regarding the land. This was because we did not take a side in the dispute. Ogun State Government respects the courts and does not overrule the courts. The judgment of the Customary Court is valid until set aside.

"Because Ogun State Government is directly affected by Fibiwoga Family’s land grab, Ogun State Government is a person aggrieved by the family’s actions. In that regard, Ogun State Government is a party to the dispute but not a party to the judgment of the Customary Court of Appeal.

"By ordinary settled positions of the law, Ogun State Government is not bound by the decision of the Customary Court of Appeal delivered in a case that did not join the Government and making reliefs that were not against the Government.

"The right that we currently assert is the same right that any person, including a private person, would assert if strangers show up on his land claiming that land and presenting a judgment in a suit he never knew of. Ogun State Government is not overruling the court - it is simply refusing to be harassed out of land it properly occupies, on account of a judgment that Fibiwoga obtained in a manifestly improper way.

"Fibiwoga continues to misstate facts. The Customary Court of Appeal never affirmed the judgment of the Customary Court. Rather, the Customary Court of Appeal declined to hear the appeal filed by the Dada Osisi Family because the appeal was filed out of time, which was expected considering that the people who appealed were never served with the suit or judgment. Again, Ogun State was not a party to that appeal anyway.

" Fibiwoga Family has presented a document from the Bureau of Lands and Survey which it uses to buttress its position that some portions of the land in question are free of contrary interest. This, if true, begs the question - why did the Family then draw a survey plan to claim land beyond the free areas? Except with fraudulent intent, how can a family continue to present a survey plan claiming 350 acres of land even after knowing that about 100 acres belong to someone else?"

Ogungbade added that the document Fibiwoga Family presented shows that since September 2024, it had known that it encroached on Ogun State Government land, but it still wrote its petition to the government suppressing this fact and claiming the entire land.

The commissioner added that a criminal charge is pending against Fibiwoga Family and Mr Oluwatobi Obabi, the promoter of Obatob Properties Limited, relating to the same land.

" The charge - MOD/59C/2024 IGP v. Tunde Aderibigbe, Oluwatobi Obabi, and Moshood Lawal - is pending before the Magistrates Court, Odogbolu and was filed by the Police, without involvement of the Ministry of Justice.

"In fact, the Attorney-General became aware of that charge when Fibiwoga presented the charge to him at the meeting of February 2025, with a request for him to intervene on their behalf. The charges pending against them are for conspiracy, forgery and assault causing grievous bodily harm. Since Fibiwoga Family is now all about judicial proceedings, it should announce its pending criminal trial too."

He added that the steps taken by the Ministry of Justice to combat land grabbing are designed to preserve the confidence of investors who summon scarce resources in the challenging global economic climate to do business in Ogun State.

Ogun Ready for National Sports Festiva-Abiodun


...says MKO Abiola International Stadium to host Africa Under-20 Athletics Competition in 2026


All is now set for the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State as Governor Dapo Abiodun on Thursday embarked on another tour of the facilities meant to host the event.

The Governor, during an assessment of the work done on the facilities being prepared for athletes participating in the sports festival, including the MKO Abiola International Stadium, the Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, and handball court behind the main bowl, as well as the Alake Sports Centre, all in Abeokuta, said Ogun State is ready for the festival.

According to the Governor, the facilities put in place will not only be used for the upcoming festival but also other competitions, national and international.

Abiodun added that the MKO Abiola International Stadium, which is being renovated in preparation for the National Sports Festival has already been picked by the African Athletics Federation to host the Under-20 athletics competition in 2026.


The stadium, when completed in preparation for the festival, will no longer be available for non-sporting events in the state, the governor said.


He said: "The track that we installed here has already begun to reap benefits. The African Athletics Federation, because of the quality of our tracks, has chosen Ogun State to host the athletics competition in 2026 for the Under-20.



"So, you find that based on what we have done, Ogun State will now become home to other world-class competitions across the country, across Sub-Saharan Africa, and even internationally.



"For us, we are already excited that this investment has begun to yield dividends. This will be one of the legacies of our administration," he said.



Governor Abiodun also disclosed that his administration has chosen to construct a pavilion behind the MKO Abiola Stadium to cater to other non-sporting events, with the main bowl of the stadium dedicated only to sporting events.


He said: "Let me assure you that the stadium will only be used for sporting activities. To that extent, we've chosen to construct a pavilion somewhere behind the stadium, and that pavilion will now be used for rallies, parties, march pasts, October 1 celebrations, Labour Day celebrations, community days, and Democracy Day.


"All those events will cease to happen in the stadium; the stadium will be made available only for sporting activities."


Abiodun said that plans are underway to rename the stadium as the MKO Abiola Sporting Complex.

"Our MKO Abiola International Stadium has now gone beyond being just an MKO Abiola International Stadium; it is now an MKO Abiola Sporting Complex. We will soon be holding the renaming ceremony," he said.

The governor noted that 15,000 people are expected to attend the National Sports Festival, adding that his administration is working to get the Olumo Rock Tourist Center and other adjoining tourist centers ready for the games.

"The festival itself will allow us to host maybe 15,000 people in the city of Abeokuta. You can imagine that those people will be eating and drinking; they will be transported back and forth. They will be buying recharge cards and water.

"Where am I going? They will be visiting our tourist sites. We are getting Olumo Rock and other adjoining tourist centers ready for the games. There will be a lot of visitors sleeping in hotels.

"The economic impact of this festival on the economy of this state can best be imagined; the multiplier effect will be felt more after the games," he said.

He added that the National Sports Festival creates an opportunity for new talents to be discovered for both national and international sporting meets, noting that what his administration has done with the investment in sporting facilities in the state is the best across the country.

Ogun Ministry of Justice warns prospective buyers against buying of government land from land grabbers





Ogun State Ministry of Justice has warned members of public against the activities of land grabbers on Government Acquired land in the Odogbolu Local Government area of the state.



The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice ,Oluwasina Ogungbade ( SAN), in a statement on Thursday, stated that the Ministry of Justice had uncovered a " fraudulent and Improperly - obtained Customary Court judgement" ,with which the land grabbers intend to use in deceiving members of the public .


Ogungbade said: " The Ogun State Ministry of Justice is impelled by recent developments to issue this urgent notice.

"A few months ago, the Ministry received a petition from persons representing lineages and descendants of one Oba Alli Ogunnaike Fibiwoga ("Fibiwoga Family".


The ministry added that " They claimed that they were properly adjudged owners of a family land within Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State but were being disturbed in possession of that land by violent trespassers. They also presented a survey plan showing their 350-acre land."

According to the Ogun Attorney General, "Further investigation of the complaints and scrutiny of the documents provided by these complainants showed that the land in question is government land.


"Also, two large Ogun State University properties are located on separate parts of the land, while other allottees of the State Government are on other parts.


"The entirety of the land claimed by Fibiwoga Family falls within government acquisition and encroaches on government occupied land."


The Ogun ministry further stressed that "The judgment obtained at the Customary Court was both fraudulently and improperly obtained, because the complainants who approached that court as plaintiffs knew that the land did not belong to them but proceeded nonetheless to obtain same, while excluding the State Government who had obvious interest on the land.


It added that none of the named defendants was served with notice of the suit while trial and judgment curiously occurred on the same day, again without notice to the named defendants.


The ministry also stated that " The judgment that Fibiwoga Family obtained never described the land awarded to Fibiwoga Family and the plaintiffs in that case never presented a survey plan to the Customary Court.

"Fibiwoga Family did not even mention the size of their land in all documents filed in court. It was only after the judgment had been delivered that Fibiwoga Family commissioned the drawing of its current survey plan thereby creating an extra-judicial description of a land that was never judicially described."


According to the statement by the Ogun Attorney General " Fibiwoga family is currently, acting through a self-styled developer Obatob Properties Limited, now advertising this fraudulently occupied land as available to the public for use as a residential estate."

The ministry stressed that " For the reasons stated above, the Ministry of Justice is taking steps to set aside the judgment that Fibiwoga Family (and Obatob Properties Limited) is fraudulently laying claim to. "

It pointed out that " Even without the judgment being set aside, members of the public should be discerning enough to examine the judgment and ask these strange vendors where in the judgment the land was described as the one being sold or presented for sale today.


"Thus, the public is hereby put on notice that the claims of the Fibiwoga Family to 350 acres of land along Lagos Road, Apere Oba via Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State are fictitious, fraudulent, and baseless.


"In the same vein, Obatob Properties Limited has no land to develop, assign, allot, or administer in the described area. Any person who deals with either entity or any other private person regarding the land does so at their own peril, and at the risk of a firm government response."

Eid-il-Fitri: Abiodun felicitates Muslims


Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has felicitated Muslim faithful on the conclusion of this year's Ramadan, saying that the period has enriched the country spiritually.


Abiodun, who commended Muslim faithful for committing the country into the hands of Almighty Allah (SWT) in prayers and supplications while undertaking acts of charity during the period, said that the benefits to the country have been massive.


In particular, the Governor commended Muslim faithful in Ogun State for their unwavering support of his administration and commitment to the growth and development of Ogun State, saying that he would never take such support for granted.



The Governor, who acknowledged the challenges posed to Muslim faithful and other Nigerians by the economy and the security situation in the country, expressed hope that there will be positive changes with their prayers and renewed commitment to national development on the part of the political leadership.


He added: "On behalf of myself and the Government of Ogun State, I celebrate all our Muslim brothers and Sisters on this great day of Eid-il-Fitri.


"I acknowledge the fact that your prayers and charitable giving (Sadaqah) in the past one month have been made against the backdrop of various national challenges and, with your continued support, I believe that the challenges will be surmounted. There is no doubt that we shall witness the divine dividends of your prayers going forward.



"Eid-il-Fitri offers us an opportunity to renew our bond of love with one another as a community, state and country.


"As a Government, we remain committed to creating a society that all citizens will be proud of and I am extremely grateful that I can count on your support, wise counsel and contributions going forward."