Category: Politics and Governance

Oyo State Farmers Reap Big from Agric Initiatives – Olaleye

By Adewale Owoade.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olasunkanmi Olaleye, has announced that the state’s agricultural programs have positively impacted tens of thousands of farmers.

Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing, Olaleye attributed the state’s agricultural success to Governor Seyi Makinde’s visionary leadership.

He said that Oyo State is the largest producer of cassava and poultry products in Nigeria, and that has attracted significant investments, including from the African Development Bank (AFDB).

“Our massive distribution of 65,000 bundles of cassava stems to 1,269 farmers, demonstrates our commitment to food security, with projections showing potential production of 214,143.75 tons of cassava tubers from 47,587.5 acres of newly planted farmland.

“The statistics we received from Ibarapa zone is that between 1st of December and 30th of May, people across Nigeria have moved out more than 11,000 tons of Cassava tuber out of Oyo State, that is about 450 trucks of Cassava taken out of Oyo State within the period of 6 months.

“These achievements represent a comprehensive approach to agricultural development that addresses every aspect of the value chain – from input supply and production support to processing, marketing, and capacity building.

“Our programs have directly impacted tens of thousands of farmers while building the infrastructure and institutional capacity needed for sustainable agricultural growth in Oyo State.

“The combination of technical services, infrastructure development, and human capital investment positions our state as a leader in agricultural innovation and food security in Nigeria, this is how far we have gone” Olaleye stated.
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‎Earlier in her opening remark, Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, encouraged newsmen to be objective and fair in their reportage.

Also in his welcome address, Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said that Gov. Makinde promised the People of Oyo State to take them from poverty to prosperity and he was elected because the people believed not just in the promises but also in his capacity to deliver on those promises.

“When a leader casts a vision, his team members catch the mission, the vision of taking the People of Oyo State from Poverty to Prosperity is implemented by the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) through their various interventions.

“In other words, the MDAs are the channels through which the promises made by His Excellency are actualized. So, it is apposite that the MDAs give an account of their stewardship.

“These engagements will afford the Honourable Commissioners and Heads of Government Agencies and Departments the opportunity to give an account of their service to the people of Oyo State and explain how the administration’s activities are improving the lives of citizens. (NAN)

Makinde has shown quality of a good leader—Rep. Peller

 

By Adewale Owoade

 

A former Member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Shina Peller, says Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has shown the quality of a good leader.

 

Peller, who represented Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency, said this at a lecture in honour of Makinde.

 

The lecture, themed “Pacesetting in Changing Times: The Dynamics of Quality Governance,” was organised by the Federation of Oyo State Students’ Union (FOSSU) at Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan.

 

He said effective governance should prioritise youth leadership, mobilisation and citizenship to meet the demands of a progressive society.

 

“The best governor in the history of Oyo State, one of the performing governors in Nigeria—using him as a case study at this event is very important because he has demonstrated the quality of a good leader who is giving us quality governance in Oyo State.

 

“I let people understand that change is the most constant thing. We are not in heaven where everything is perfect. In this world, we will continue to face challenges and it is not enough for us to merely survive.

 

“We need leaders that are innovative, inspirational and transformative—leaders who understand our challenges and opportunities, empower us, and create a better system,” Peller said.

Earlier, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Administration, Kunle Sanni, attributed Makinde’s achievements to his dynamic leadership.

 

“By every standard, our governor is a dynamic leader, as he has continued to impact positively on the lives of the people of Oyo State.

 

“His dynamism is recognised beyond the shores of Oyo State. Nigeria has recognised him. His colleagues in the Governors’ Forum have acknowledged it and made him the Vice Chairman of the Forum.

 

“People are even beckoning on him that it is time for him to come to Abuja and continue his good work—probably after completing his tenure in Oyo State.”

Also in his welcome address, the President of FOSSU, Comrade Ibrahim Alarape, commended Makinde for supporting students’ welfare.

 

He urged the governor to build institutions that would sustain his projects over time.

 

“Let us use this platform to appreciate the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Oyo State.

 

“We are grateful for his visionary leadership, his dedication to empowering youths, and for promoting development in our great state.”(NAN)

Speakers’ conference seek urgent, coordinated action to end renewed terrorists attacks

By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (CSSLN)has called for urgent and coordinated action by Federal and State Governments to end the renewed terrorist attacks across the country.

The CSSLN made the call in a statement issued by its Chairman, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin.

The CSSLN strongly condemned the recent wave of brutal terrorist attacks and killings across several states in the country.

The conference specifically mentioned the killings in Plateau, Borno, Benue, Niger and most recently, Kwara .

“These gruesome acts have led to tragic loss of lives, widespread displacement, and unimaginable trauma for thousands of Nigerians.

“We are alarmed by the escalating insecurity in the land and the seeming helplessness with which these attacks are met.

“The time for mere condemnation and rhetoric has passed; urgent and coordinated action is now required at all levels of government to end these bloodbaths and restore peace and order,’ they said .

The conference acknowledged that defence and national security fall within the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal government.

“We must stress that every level of government bears responsibility for the security and welfare of the people.

“State governors, in particular, must rise to the occasion and fully understand that governance is not limited to road construction and ceremonial functions.

“True governance is rooted in the protection of lives, the preservation of order, and the alleviation of suffering,” the statement said.

The speakers also called on the state governments to complement the efforts of the federal government by making and enforcing an enabling laws for community policing and other grassroots-driven security models.

“States must develop proactive frameworks that integrate local intelligence, social support systems, and youth engagement in the fight against insecurity.

“ Furthermore, we urge the federal government to meaningfully engage the citizenry and introduce bold, practical measures to cushion the hardship caused by its current economic policies.

“Millions of Nigerians are groaning under the weight of inflation, unemployment, and a cost-of-living crisis.

“It is imperative that relief initiatives targeted, transparent, and impactful are rolled out without delay. Dialogue, not distance, must define the relationship between the government and its people at this critical time,” it said.

The speakers affirmed their commitment to support all legislative actions necessary to restore security, promote justice, and foster inclusive governance across the country.

“The killings in Benue, Niger, Plateau, Borno, Kwara, and any part of Nigeria must not be allowed to continue unchecked. Justice must prevail, and peace must be restored.

“Let it be known that the safety, dignity, and well-being of every Nigerian must remain the top priority of all arms and levels of government,” he said.

 

By Flowerbudnews
The Managing Director of Enugu State Housing Development Corporation (ESHDC), Dr Gerald Asogwa, has felicitated with Christians as they mark Easter, while urging reflection on love.

Asogwa, in an Easter Goodwill Message issued in Enugu on Sunday, also rejoiced with Gov. Peter Mbah for his practical developmental strides and prayed for his continued success in steering the affairs of Enugu State.

The managing director, who recalled the huge sacrifice made by God through His Son, Jesus Christ, for the redemption of mankind, urged Christians to reflect on its significance in their lives.

“The occasion of Easter always presents us with an opportunity to reflect on the love and magnanimity of God in redeeming mankind through the death and resurrection of his only begotten Son.

“Importantly, it is a time to also reflect on the oneness of mind of God the Father and God the Son, for Christ freely offered Himself to be sent and be given as that Sacrificial Lamb at Calvary to fulfill the purpose of the Father.

“As Christians and the worldover celebrate this Easter, My family, the management and staff of Enugu State Housing Development Corporation, heartily felicitate with His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah, in commemoration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“May the event leading to the resurrection of Christ, strengthen and direct you more on piloting the affairs of our dear state,” he said.

Asogwa also appealed to the entire residents to keep giving their undivided support to Gov. Mbah “as he is focused on people-centred projects and development targeted to make Enugu State the best place to live and do business.”

 

By Danladi Ahmed
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje has condoled with his adviser on Strategy and Planning, Dr Niyi Akinsiju, on the death of his mother Deaconess Alice Oluwalola Akinsiju.

In a personally signed condolence message, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje described the late matriarch of the Akinsiju family as a pillar of support for the family.

He said: “Mama lived a notable life while on earth, as a pillar of support to her family and hope to her community, but the reality is that, nothing on earth can sufficiently prepare one to assimilate the shock and despair occasioned by the death of a loved one.

“I truly know that she was an indispensable and inseparable part of you and her passing has no doubt created a wide void in your life. She will be fondly remembered for her remarkable life and contributions which she expressed through love, compassion and selfless acts of servitude.

“We therefore join your friends and associates to express our heartfelt condolences and urge you and your entire family to draw solace and strength in the fact that the Almighty God is always with us through the good and difficult moments of life and will always grant His blessings in every misfortune and loss.

“While praying for the comfort and peace of Allah to enfold you and your family and help you heal with the passage of time, please accept the assurances of my esteemed regards to you and all members of your immediate and extended family,”he said.

 

PDP Governors Confirm National Convention Dates, Rule Out Party Mergers.

 

By Adewale Owoade

The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF), has ruled out the speculations on joining any coalition or merger with any party.

However, the party said it will welcome any party, persons or groups that are willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027.

The governor elected under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) including members of National Executive Committee, NEC, converged in Ibadan to discuss critical issues affecting the party

The forum which was hosted by the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, had in attendance Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Peter Mbah of Enugu and Agbu Kefas of Taraba.

Others include Dauda Lawal (Zamfara); Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun) and Douye Diri of Bayelsa.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Gov Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom were represented by their deputies, while the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara was absent at the meeting.

 

The governors later went for a close door session which lasted for about two hours, after which a communique was issued and read by Chairman PDP Govs Forum, Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State.

“The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) held its Meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State, and resolved the following:

“Noting the nationwide speculations about possible merger of parties, groups and/or associations, the Forum resolved that they will not join any coalition or merger.

“However, the PDP as a major opposition party welcomes any party, persons or groups that are willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027.

“The Forum reiterates its position taken in Asaba on the issue of National Secretary of the party, but in the wake of the Supreme Court judgment, the Forum resolved to recommend that the Deputy Secretary acts as National Secretary, pending the nomination/ ratification of a Substantive National Secretary from the South East Zone at NEC’s next meeting.

“The Forum reasserts our collective determination to avert a rap constitutional democracy hence the decision of approach Supreme Court to give a clear cut verdict on the interpretation of the provisions of the court on the declaration of State of Emergency in any State of the Federation.

“The Forum therefore restates its solidarity with His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on the ordeal into which his state and people are being plunge into by the declaration of a state of emergency. And we reiterate our commitment to stand with him till the end.

“The Forum finds alarming the worsening security situation in the country, as evidenced in parts of the country as evidence in parts of the country, especially Borno, Plateau, Katsina and Edo States.

“The Forum calls for review and reordering of priorities and strategies including adopting a bottom up template that guarantees the sub-nationals to constitute an effective line of defence against security breaches.

“While raising the concerns above, we condemn the recent attacks in Plateau State, and commiserate with the government and people of the state especially those who lost their lives and properties during this unfortunate mishap.

“The Forum resolved in conjunction with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other relevant organs of the party, to hold the NEC Meeting on the 27th of May, 2025.

“Constitute a Zoning Committee that will address all issues relating to zoning of party offices and hold an early convention in August 2025, precisely on the 28th, 29th and 30th in the ancient city of Kano.

“The Forum equally recommends the constitution of the Zoning and National Convention Committees for ratification by the NWC and NEC as follows.

“Zoning Committee: Gov. Douye Diri Chairman; Gov. Dauda Lawal – Vice Chairman and Gov. Caleb Mutfwang- Secretary, while the National Convention Committee has Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri as Chairman; Gov. Ademola Adeleke as Vice Chairman and Gov. Peter Mbah as Secretary.

“The Forum expressed its gratitude to the host Governor, His Excellency. Engr. Seyi Makinde, the government and good people of Oyo state for their unusual and good hospitality to all of us.” (NAN)

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that he left office with the same physical assets he had when he assumed the presidency on May 29, 2015.

 

In a statement on Wednesday, Buhari’s media aide, Garba Shehu, revealed that the former president made the remark during a meeting with members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) at his residence in Kaduna.

 

According to Shehu, Buhari advised the members of the Progressive Governors Forum to adopt a citizen-centric approach, saying that “leadership presents both a challenge and opportunity, and that balancing the two would significantly advance national progress.”

 

 

 

He added that the former president expressed confidence in the progress being made by the governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and reiterated his call for continued dedication to the nation’s progress.

 

Buhari thanked the Tinubu administration for renovating his home in Kaduna, explaining that while the building looked very much the same externally, so much improvement was made inside.

 

He thanked the governors for the visit, saying that while he had worked with several of them, some others were new to him.

 

The Chairman of the PGF, Imo state Governor Hope Uzodinma said that their visit was to greet the former president on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitr, and “convey our heart-felt expression of gratitude and enduring respect for your immense contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and strengthening our party.

 

“Many of us recall with pride the principled role you played in the founding of the APC. That legacy continues to shape our party’s identity direction.

 

We are especially gratified, only a few weeks ago, to hear your public affirmation that the APC remains your party of choice. That declaration could not have come at a better time. It reaffirmed your place as a pillar of our movement and provided reassurance to members of our party. Mr President, you are pan-Nigerian.

 

“Your Excellency, your legacy in Nigerian history is secure. You remain the only opposition candidate in our nation’s history to have defeated an incumbent. You did not only win power, you governed with calm resolve and handed over, with honor, to another APC president. For this, we are extremely grateful.

 

“Your administration gave expression to our party’s core principles through your focus on security, economic recovery, and anti-corruption. Your efforts reclaimed territory from insurgents, extended social investment programs like the Conditional Cash Transfer and School Feeding Program, and ushered in road and rail revolution that is still bearing fruit. Programs such as the Anchor Borrowers Scheme directly impacted food security. You taught us to produce what we eat and eat what we produce. You brought dignity to governance and deepened the progressive ethos of our party.

 

“Today, APC is being renewed and repositioned under your worthy successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. His leadership is bold, reform -driven, and unshakably committed to progress. Your public endorsement of him in your recent birthday message was a powerful symbol of continuity and humility.

 

Your Excellency, today we honor you, not just for your past service but for the enduring values you represent. We ask you to continue to support and guide us as we take the next steps to deepen progressive politics across the nation, and ensure that APC continues to be in power for a more prosperous Nigeria.”

By Flowerbud News

Sen. Sunday Karimi, Chairman, Senate Services Committee, has urged his counterpart from Borno South, Senator Ali Ndume to focus more on pressing issues such as insecurity rather than “play to the gallery”.

Nudeme had accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of making lopsided political appointments favouring his Yoruba ethnic group, when he appeared as a guest on Arise TV’s ‘Prime Time’ on Monday.

Ndume alleged that Tinubu had been unfair to other parts of the country in the appointments he made so far.

However, Karimi, in a statement on Tuesday in Lokoja, expressed surprise at Ndume’s claims, advising him to focus on more pressing issues like the nation’s insecurity.

Karimi expressed surprise that Ndume, a former Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, often chose to “play to the gallery” by leaving “real developmental challenges like the insecurity confronting Nigeria, to promote sentiments.”

The Kogi-West Senator cited the devastation caused to Nigeria’s existence by Boko Haram insurgency for over a decade.

According to him, it cost the nation “over 50 per cent of its earnings” in recent years in counter-terrorism spending.

Karimi urged Ndume to redirect his energy towards finding local solutions to the insurgency, rather than criticizing the government.

“Over 50 per cent of Nigeria’s earnings in the last few years is being spent on fighting insurgency.

“Rather than playing to the gallery and criticising the government, Senator Ndume as a leader of his people should go back home, liaise with his people on solving Boko Haram problems.

“Insecurity has a local solution,” he said.

Karimi highlighted his efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes in Kogi-West by citing a notable example.

He said he facilitated the construction of a Military Base in Egbe Town, Yagba West Local Government, and provided additional logistics to support security initiatives.

Karimi stressed that the proactive approach demonstrated his commitment to addressing the region’s security challenges.

“The country has lost a lot of his soldiers and trillions of Naira fighting insurgents in Senator Ndume’s Senatorial district in the last decades.

“In fact, I lost one of the young officers, a captain in the Nigerian Army from my Senatorial District serving in his community three weeks ago.

“Lots of young Nigerians had lost their lives fighting to defend the territorial integrity of our country.

“Those are more serious and compelling issues threatening our collective existence,” he added.

NAN

By Flowerbud News

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi and Gov. Alex Otti of Abia have fixed the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting for April 9 in Abuja.

Spokesman of Peter Obi Media Reach, Mr Ibrahim Umar, made this known in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Umar said that the meeting would be closely followed by an interactive session with major stakeholders and other organs of the party.

The stakeholders expected at the meeting, according to him, include: Obi’s running mate in the 2023 election, Datti Baba-Ahmed, serving and former senators as well as all the senatorial candidates in the 2023 election.

Others are: serving and former House of Representatives members and candidates in the 2023 election as well as all members of the National Caretaker Committee and National Transition Committee.

Also expected at the meeting are former governorship candidates who are still in the party, representatives of NLC/TUC Political Commission and all members of the former National Working Committee.

The spokesman said that the meeting called by the two party leaders had become necessary in order to clarify the recent Supreme Court judgment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the apex court had, on Friday, ruled that the Appeal Court had no jurisdiction over internal affairs of the party.