Category: Politics and Governance

Oseni mobilises for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election

By Akeem Abas

Mr Aderemi Oseni, House of Representatives member representing Ido/Ibarapa-East, has initiated strategic mobilisation efforts in Oyo State for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election.

Oseni inaugurated the leaders of the Remi Oseni Committee of Friends (ROCOF) across the 33 local government areas of the state in Ibadan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oseni declared ROCOF as non-political and non-religious, but a movement of change agents.

He said the group’s six-point agenda includes delivering Oyo State to President Tinubu.

“Our first agenda is delivering Oyo State for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. A new Nigeria is possible, and it is unfolding through President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

“We must rally round the President. We must support and partner with Mr President in this transformative journey.”

The lawmaker and governorship aspirant urged ROCOF members to mobilise grassroots support to restore APC’s leadership in Oyo by 2027.

“A new Oyo State that works for all must emerge, and the next governor of Oyo State must be of the APC. Oyo State can not afford to remain in the opposition in 2027.

“As we approach 2027, we can not afford to repeat the mistake of 2023. Our souls have seen the consequences of being on a political sideline.

“Instead, we must harness the collective strength of ROCOF Assembly to ensure that we are not only supporting the right, credible,  and most generally acceptable candidate.

“But also actively engage with our communities to vote massively for all the APC candidates at all levels.”

ROCOF Director-General, Asiwaju Yemi Aderibigbe encouraged leaders to form council-level structures for easier coordination and massive grassroots support.

Aderibigbe said ROCOF was formed to realise the six-point agenda and support Remi Oseni’s political aspiration.

“ROCOF is for genuity; ROCOF is people-friendly; ROCOF is focus; ROCOF is here to liberate the people of Oyo State.

“If you are with us, please stay with us. If you don’t want to stay with us  please after today’s programme, tell us you don’t want to stay with us. All we want is 100 per cent loyalty.”

NAN reports that the event was attended by  notable political leaders, APC members, and supporters of the lawmaker from the 33 local governments in the state. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President

On a day Vice President Kashim Shettima began by attending the 2025 World Cassava Day ceremony in Abuja, where he declared the potential of cassava as a key driver of Nigeria’s industrial development and import substitution following the diversification drive of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, before returning to the office to inaugurate the board of the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC) constituted by Mr President before heading to Kano State on a condolence visit to the family of the late Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Peter Obi’s running mate in the 2023 Presidential Election, Sen. Datti-Baba Ahmed found his way to Arise Television making a case for the Coalition of political parties. At the end, he found a way to, as usual, throw aspersions on the person and office of the Vice President of Nigeria.

In the said interview, Baba-Ahmed expressed his frustrations on why the President had yet to remove the VP from office for not a single reason or offence he evidently linked the Vice President with, but merely to soothe his ego and wish. Well, the bad news for him is that his frustration is just beginning.

We would have allowed Datti’s vituperations to slide away and defenestrate his ill thoughts like we have done in the past, but on second thought, it is wise to reply to Datti Ahmed and put him in his right place in history especially since his graduation with a Poor Pass Degree (Not even a Third Class!) from the University of Maiduguri. This is even as he had lost the 2023 elections and openly fell short of calling for a military coup.

For the record, unlike the picture of a desperado that Datti attempted to paint of VP Shettima, this VP, a gentleman, is a perfect story of democratic credentials that are not only untainted but have also never been involved in rigging elections. I must also add that this democrat and leader have never lost an election. In case Datti has forgotten, let him be reminded that this Vice President landed at the Presidential Villa by the mercy of the Almighty God and through the destined hand and will of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after starting life upon graduation from the university as lecturer 2 ( for 2years), banker ( 6years), Commissioner across several ministries in Borno State, (4years), Governor (8 years) and Senator (4 years). If God, in His infinite mercy, has elevated Senator Shettima to become the Vice President of Nigeria, is it unmeritorious?

Like him, hate him or continue to disparage him on all fronts, a major attribute of VP Shettima that cannot be contested is his loyalty to his boss, President Tinubu, and his total belief and devotion to the Renewed Hope Agenda. Unfortunately for the likes of Datti, who would rather expect the President to find fault with his deputy, all President Tinubu sees in him is a loyal and dependable ally, administrative and political asset, intellectual powerhouse, experienced private and public servant, a trojan horse, a reliable confidante, as well as a trustworthy and truly molded cosmopolitan Nigerian.

Unfortunately for the likes of Datti, the President is way above their “petty egos and small thoughts”. This President has seen it all, with his massive wealth of experience in private and public life. Datti can therefore take his small beer parlour gossip elsewhere. The ears are sealed up here; no space for armchair criticism. It is always work mode for Mr President and his Vice President.

And talking more about political desperation, was it Kashim Shettima’s fault that while he delivered Borno State to his party as Vice Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Datti Baba-Ahmed left the Labour Party comfortably and unperturbed at a distant third position in the same election in Kaduna State in the 2023 general election?

The real definition of political desperation and desire to capture power can only be situated in Datti’s political trajectory when the Courts sent him packing from the Senate for rigging elections. In other words, he committed electoral fraud, which is forever captured in our crime records. Need I remind Datti Baba-Ahmed how he was removed from the Senate due to a court ruling after the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Kaduna discovered that the election was rigged in his favour? Here’s a breakdown of what happened.

After the April 28, 2011, election, Baba-Ahmed, then a member of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), was declared winner for the Kaduna North Senatorial District. However, his opponent, Ahmed Makarfi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), petitioned the tribunal, alleging election rigging. Makarfi, in the petition, accused Datti of gross rigging, praying the tribunal to recount the ballot papers.

The court granted the request, and a recount was carried out. After the final count, Makarfi polled 364,801 while Datti of CPC polled 356,579 votes. Consequently, the tribunal removed Baba-Ahmed from the Senate and replaced him with Senator Makarfi in November 2011. Datti appealed the decision of the tribunal, but the Appeal Court dismissed his case, upholding Makarfi’s victory. The courts thus sent him embarrassingly packing from the upper chamber of the National Assembly sending a clear message that impostors are not welcomed here!

See why talk is cheap?

Let me conclude by saying this Vice President has continued to carry out his duties with integrity, decency and patriotism. The office of the Vice President requires total loyalty, which Shettima embodies. He has, without equivocation, continued to market the programmes of this administration with unbridled gusto and conviction both in Nigeria and all over the world.

As a consummate salesman and believer in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, the Vice President continues to traverse the world, marketing and showcasing the economic viability of the present administration, geared towards the unfurling of the great Nigerian possibility. It is this kind of loyalty and commitment that the Dattis of this world, acting in cahoots with implacable enemies of the President, want to scuttle. History will bear witness to Shettima as an effective Vice President, who has continued to work on a daily basis for the good governance of a country he is so proud of. The delusion of VP Shettima being removed by Datti and his gang of jealous, malicious and conspiratorial manipulators will not succeed.

This Vice President’s media team and image handlers are very calm, gentle and respectable professionals, choosing to support their principal in the most effective way possible. For us, the overall goal and prize is the success of President Tinubu, as always emphasised by the Vice President. This, from the Vice President to everyone in his office and home, is solemn in priority and task. Undue and unprovoked attacks like this would henceforth not go without a response from us.

We might not have the power to stop Datti Baba-Ahmed’s obsession with a fellow politician and fellow Northerner’s charismatic persona, especially one who has attained a position he so relishes but might never attain, however, in seeking the Vice President’s fall, he must defer to the Almighty Allah, who gives power to whom He pleases. A million and one hate comments will never change the will of the Almighty.

Flowerbud News/ The Labour Party held a well attended general assembly today at its LGA secretariat located at 13 Odofin Street, Olodi Apapa, in what has been described as a major show of strength and grassroots mobilization ahead of the forthcoming Local Government Area (LGA) elections scheduled for July 12, 2025.

The gathering witnessed a massive turnout of party members, leaders, supporters, and key community stakeholders, including six traditional chiefs (Baales), in a demonstration of growing public support and renewed party momentum in the Apapa region.

Traditional Rulers Lend Support

In a significant boost to the party’s grassroots appeal, six esteemed Baales attended the event, underscoring traditional institutional backing for the Labour Party’s local agenda. Present at the assembly were:

Chief Akeem Oseni Bale Amukoko
Chief Abdulateef Ojora Bale Alaba
Chief Jide Ojora Bale Alafia
Bale Taiwo Okere
Bale Balogun Abukekere
Bale Idris Ojora

Their presence was warmly acknowledged by the crowd, as they received special commendation for aligning with the party’s community focused platform and development goals.

Unity and Mobilization

The assembly opened with prayers, followed by the rendition of the national and Labour Party anthems, setting a solemn yet determined tone for the proceedings. In his opening address, the Party Chairman welcomed members and emphasized the significance of the gathering as a morale booster and rallying point ahead of the elections. He called on all party members to stay committed to the cause, noting that six Labour Party candidates are set to contest councillorship positions in the upcoming polls.

Hon. Charles Chidiebere Ejimadu, the LGA Chairman of the Labour Party, spoke on the urgent need for effective campaign strategies and community engagement to ensure victory at the grassroots

OmoBarca Fires Up the Crowd

A high point of the assembly was the address delivered by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, whose speech electrified the audience. Speaking with passion and conviction, OmoBarca encouraged the councillorship candidates to remain optimistic and focused, declaring that electoral success is within reach.

In a strong show of support, he pledged to fully cover the cost of agent fees for all six candidates during the election. This announcement was met with resounding applause and chants of solidarity from attendees. He further called on all executive members to intensify grassroots mobilization and expand party membership in the run up to the elections.

OmoBarca also expressed appreciation to the visiting Baales for their consistent backing of the OMOBARCA Movement and their contributions to community development. He prayed for their safety and long life.

Official Campaign Kickoff

In a symbolic and spirited ceremony, each of the six councillorship candidates was presented with the official Labour Party flag, handed over personally by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima. The flag presentation marked the formal launch of their campaign efforts across their respective wards.

The event transitioned into a celebration with music, dancing, and enthusiastic displays of party unity. Attendees were served refreshments, including food, water, and soft drinks, in an atmosphere that blended festivity with political determination.

In a gesture of empowerment and inclusiveness, every member in attendance received a transportation token of ₦3,000, also provided by Hon. Francis Chima reaffirmed his commitment to supporting and uplifting the party’s base.

A Party Prepared for the Polls

The general assembly concluded on an energetic note, with party members expressing confidence in the Labour Party’s prospects at the July 12 elections. With visible community support, active traditional leadership engagement, and strong grassroots organization, the party appears poised for a robust performance at the polls.

Report by: Maduabum Obinna Francis
LGA Publicity Secretary
Media/Publicity Director, Team OmoBarca

Gov Makinde Launches Oyo State Performance Delivery Compact, Seeks Ministerial Collaboration

By Adewale Owoade.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has launched the State Performance Delivery Compact, a initiative aimed at building a lasting legacy by enhancing governance and service delivery in the state.

The governor made this known during his address at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), venue of the 2025 Mid-Term Leadership Retreat organised by the Oyo State Government, for the top government officials.

This initiative demonstrates Gov Makinde’s commitment to building a lasting legacy in Oyo State, prioritizing effective governance, economic growth and citizens’ well-being.

Makinde emphasised the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration that will guarantee good governance well beyond the tenure of this administration, stating that no single entity can build a legacy alone.

“We began this journey not merely with promises but with vision to shift from accelerated development of Oyo state, to sustainable transformation.

“A vision that says we do not only build for applause; we are building for impact.

“Finishing strong requires inter Ministerial collaboration, no single ministry, department or agency, can build a legacy. I don’t want to be remembered for constructing roads, but the institution that we are creating, that would guarantee good governance well beyond the tenure of this administration.

“Oyo state can set its own growth standard, one grounded in coordination not competition, so let us cooperate with ourselves, coordinate and deliver for our people.

“So, to formalize this, am announcing today, the launch of the legacy compact, Oyo state performance delivery compact.

“Using our commitment to measurable result, not activity. Under this system, each ministry, department and agency will identify 3 to 5 legacy deliverables they can realistically complete before 2027.

“The Oyo state legacy compact is not a slogan, it is a component, a path between us and the people we serve. to build a legacy that last, we must do few things.

“Prioritise completion, institutionalised what works, protect effective policies through legal framework and performance need budgeting.

“To build legacy we have to empower successors not sabotage them, because a true legacy is the one that outlived its architect.

“We are at a redefining point the foundation is solid, the vision is clear, the next 2 years must be about intentional delivery, inter Ministerial synergy and generational impact.

“Let us remember the legacy is not what you start it is what you finished and finished well, that is what a legacy is, so let posterity say of this government of this season that we came, we set the gaps and we closed those gaps,” Makinde said.

Speaking earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, said the mid-term retreat was organised for stakeholders in the government to assess its interventions in the areas of manpower development, infrastructural development, education, healthcare, agribusiness development and institutional legacies. (NAN)

Makinde Determined to Position Oyo as West Africa’s Investment Hub

By Adewale Owoade

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reiterated his government’s commitment to making Oyo State the premier investment destination in West Africa.

‎Gov Makinde stated this during his state of the state address at a special plenary in commemoration of 2nd anniversary of the 10th Oyo Assembly, held at the Secretariat, Ibadan.

He noted that intensive production, skill and knowledge are needed to attain economy prosperity, adding that relying on natural resources alone cannot guarantee prosperity.
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‎He added that first phase of the ongoing upgrading of Ladoke Akintola Airport to international standard would be completed in October to grow economy of the state through airlifting and cargo operations.

“The heart of our economic agenda is our determination to position Oyo State as the premier investment destination in West Africa.

“Over the last year, we achieved several landmarks milestone that underscore the situation, we deepen our commitment to agriculture as a business not just a development activity.

“We did this through local and international partnership with the private sector, other sub nationals, development organisations, and even other countries.

On the security situation, Makinde revealed that the government had concluded plans to procure two aircraft for aerial surveillance and security operations.

In his address, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt Hon Adebo Ogundoyin, declared that the 10th Assembly has firmly established itself as a dynamic and people-focused institution.
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‎He noted that the house being proactive passed 32 bills which span through education, health, economy, security, environment, infrastructure, social welfare and governance.

“Today, we stand not merely to celebrate the passage of time, but to reflect on our journey, our trials, triumphs, and testimony as a truly people-driven legislative Institution.

“As we pause to reflect on our journey so far, we do so with pride and humility, acknowledging our shared commitment to the ideals of democracy, transparency, and good governance.

“In the last two years, this Assembly has remained proactive, people-driven and result-oriented. We have passed thirty-two (32) out of 34 bills, with the remaining two at Committee stage undergoing critical scrutiny.

“These bills span essential sectors including education, health, economy, security, environment. Infrastructure, social welfare, and governance

“Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, governance is only as effective as the well-being of those who serve within its corridors.

“In the past two years, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, we have witnessed significant welfare improvements for staff within the Oyo State House of Assembly and the House Commission,” Ogundoyin said.

The event had in attendance former deputy governor and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former deputy governors, Engr Hamid Gbadamosi and Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi; wife of a former Governor, Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; and Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni.

Others were Commissioners, Chairmen of Boards and Agencies, Chairmen of local governments councils, traditional rulers, PDP leaders and religious leaders, among other dignitaries. (NAN)

Oyo Assembly is a people focused institution, says speaker

By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin on Friday said that the 10th Assembly has firmly established itself as a dynamic and people-focused institution.

Ogundoyin said this while addressing the audience, which included governor Seyi Makinde during the second Anniversary of the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly.

Ogundoyin said that in the last two years, this Assembly has remained proactive, people-driven, and result-oriented.

“We have passed 32 out of 34 bills, with the remaining two at the committee stage undergoing critical scrutiny.

“ These bills span essential sectors including education, health, economy, security, environment, infrastructure, social welfare, and governance,” he said.

He added that the House Committees have presented no fewer than 102 Committee reports, setting a record for policy analysis and institutional reforms.

“We have moved 106 motions and considered 41 Matters of Urgent Public Importance, responding swiftly to the voice of the people while adopting over 400 resolutions, further amplifying our responsiveness to governance challenges,” he said.

The speaker said that they established the Post-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Unit, a first among State Assemblies in Nigeria.

“Beyond lawmaking, we have taken bold steps to ensure effective governance through legislative innovation.

“ One of our historic achievements is the establishment of the Post-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Unit, making Oyo State House of Assembly the pioneer among State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria to institute a mechanism for evaluating the implementation and impact of laws passed by the legislature.

“This groundbreaking initiative underscores our commitment to ensuring that every law enacted truly serves its intended purpose and contributes meaningfully to the development of our state.

“We also recognize that a strong legislature must be an informed one.

“ To this end, we have facilitated capacity-building training at home and abroad for all Honorable Members covering areas such as appropriation oversight, constituency representation, and legislative impact assessment,” he said.

He added that under governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State House of Assembly has witnessed significant welfare improvements for staff within the Assembly and the House Commission.

“Timely salary payments and regular allowances, 30 percent CONLESS implementation for legislative staff, promotions and career advancement opportunities, and monthly release of operational funds for administrative efficiency,” he said.

The speaker said that the state government has approved the recruitment of 181 new staff into the assembly, adding that the exercise would be strictly merit-based.

He , however, commended the synergy between the legislature and executive arm, crediting Makinde’s open-door approach.

“We have chosen partnership over partisanship, and the dividends are clear in the policies we have helped shape and the laws we’ve enacted.

“ Let me reiterate that our relationship and collaboration remain exemplary, and it is one of the key reasons we have recorded so much progress,” he said.

The speaker, however, called on his colleagues to rededicate themselves to the task ahead.

“We are unwavering in our commitment to delivering quality legislation, robust oversight, and responsive representation.

“We will continue upholding our constitutional duty with sincerity, diligence, and accountability.

“Let me remind us all that the next two years present even greater challenges, and we must rise to them with a stronger sense of duty and resolve.

“This House belongs to the people of Oyo State. Their hopes and voices shape our debates, and their future drives our resolve,” he said.