Friday, 2 May 2025

Oyo Youth Summit 2025: Yusuf Adebisi Empower Participant With Cash Gift To Support Her Education Career

The International Conference Center, University of Ibadan, was filled to capacity as thousands of youths from across Oyo State gathered for the grand finale of the 2025 Oyo Youth Summit, themed “Unlocking Youth Potential: Addressing Needs, Fulfilling Dreams.”

The two-day summit, organized by the Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, ended with lectures from resource people and entrepreneurs within and outside the state, various entertainment activities, showcasing of talents, award presentation to celebrate outstanding individuals across various fields and reaffirming the government’s commitment to youth advancement.

The climax was the keynote address by His Excellency, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde who declared that his administration would continue to provide platforms that empower young people, noting that education, entrepreneurship, and productivity are the cornerstones of national development.

“You are not a generation seeking handouts. You are the key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic prosperity,” Governor Makinde said. “At 29, I was already paying salaries. If we get our structure and leadership right, there’s no limit to what our youth can achieve.”

Also at the event one Aremu Alaba Ayomide who showed interest to further harness her interest in information technology was given a laptop system by Lagos State commissioner for Sports development while Honourable Yusuf Adebisi representing Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1 in his usual magnanimity support the young lady with cash support of #200, 000 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira) to pursue her dream.

Chairman House Committee on Youth and Sports, Hon. Adebisi emphasized that education support for young adults is essential for development of skills, talents in special field of study. He advised other well to do in the society to emulate this and invest in education as their is no alternative to education in any sane society.

The summit also featured high-level panel discussions moderated by Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kie Kie) and Mariam Oni, with speakers including Adekunbi Omotosho, Adejoke Lasisi, popular actors Yomi Fash-Lanso, Dr. Hafiz Ayetoro, and Mr. Iskil Mustapha Arojinle, among others.

The summit began on April 29 with a statewide sensitization walk against drug abuse across the five zones of the state which Honourable Adebisi led the main Ibadan city , drawing massive youth participation and setting the tone for a transformative experience.


Wednesday, 30 April 2025

Youth Summit 2025: Thousands Shun Heavy Rain As Oyo Lawmaker Adebisi Yusuf Join in Pre-Summit Drug Awareness Walk Across Ibadan

In huge display of commitment to youth development and social change, Chairman House Committee on Youth and Sports including thousands of youths across Ibadan yesterday defied the heavy rainfall to participate in a large-scale drug awareness walk, setting the tone for the highly anticipated Oyo Youth Summit 2025 today.


The pre-summit sensitization campaign, organized to highlight the dangers of drug abuse among youth, saw a strong turnout across strategic locations in the Ibadan metropolis. The awareness walk was led by Prince Falana Adebowale Adebayo, Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, alongside Hon. Michael Ogunsina, Oyo State PDP Youth Leader and Acting Publicity Secretary, Chairman House Committee on Youth and Sports and deputy chief whip, Honourable Yusuf Adebisi of Ibadan Southwest constituency 1.

Youth advocates and stakeholders gathered in their numbers at Ijokodo Junction, moving through the streets with banners, placards, and chants echoing strong anti-drug messages. The walk continued to the University of Ibadan, where students and youths listened attentively to calls to avoid drug abuse and embrace productive paths.

The campaign also reached Oje, Beere , Molete , Challenge while Agbowo community further amplifying its message to youths in neighborhoods often vulnerable to substance abuse.

Others Present at the sensitization walk include the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Political Matters, Hon. Deji Ola; Comrade Ibekwe;  party local government and Wards Youth Leaders who mobilized other grassroots youths across Ibadan.

The awareness walk also served as a build-up to the Oyo Youth Summit, scheduled to hold today Tuesday, April 30th, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan (Second Gate). The summit will be hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde and will feature a keynote address from Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Onaolapo, Managing Director of BOVAS Group.

The summit, themed “Unlocking Youth Potential: Addressing Needs, Fulfilling Dreams,” will include a youth-focused panel session, capacity-building engagements, and a special awards and dinner night celebrating excellence and innovation among Oyo youths.

In a joint call Hon Yusuf Adebisi, Prince Falana Adebowale and Hon. Michael Ogunsina encouraged all youths between the ages of 18 and 45 to be present at the summit, emphasizing the transformative opportunities it offers and emphasize the need to shun drugs peddling, usage and addiction.

With expectations running high, the Oyo Youth Summit promises to be a defining moment in advancing the Makinde-led administration’s youth-centric agenda—ushering in a future where Oyo youths are not just seen, but heard and empowered.


Tuesday, 29 April 2025

ARE WE LEADERS OR LOOTERS? POLITICIANS OR POLITHIEFIANS? BY: BARRISTER OLAWALE OJOGE-DANIEL


 PRESIDENT TINUBU AND ALL THE GOVERNORS MUST SEND AN EXECUTIVE BILL TO MAKE CORRUPTION A CAPITAL OFFENCE — ANYTHING LESS IS SUPPORT FOR CORRUPTION AND BAD GOVERNANCE.

"Stealing from the people is stealing their future. Tolerating corruption is betraying the unborn." — Chief Olawale Ojoge-Daniel

Corruption remains the most devastating affliction eating deep into the very soul of Nigeria. It is the cankerworm that has denied the Nigerian people good governance, quality healthcare, functional education, critical infrastructure, national security, and ultimately, human dignity.

If President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and all State Governors genuinely intend to lead Nigeria toward a rebirth of hope, prosperity, and justice, there is no nobler starting point than to urgently push for legislation that makes corruption: especially grand corruption, a capital offence.

To pretend otherwise is to inadvertently endorse the very evil that has crippled our nation for decades.

Nations that have achieved meaningful progress understood early that corruption is not just a moral failing , it is treason against the people.

China, for instance, treats high-level corruption with the severest punishment, often the death penalty, recognizing that corruption leads to societal decay and mass suffering. 

Vietnam and North Korea have taken similar stances, enacting strict measures, including capital punishment, against corrupt public officials. 

Even Singapore, though not prescribing capital punishment, dealt so ruthlessly with corruption that it became a global model of clean governance.

Nigeria, sadly, continues to caress corruption with weak laws and indulgent institutions. Trials drag for decades, convictions are rare, and even when achieved, the corrupt often negotiate plea bargains that allow them to retain much of their loot.

Meanwhile, ordinary citizens wallow in hunger, disease, joblessness, and insecurity.

The time for cosmetic reforms is over. We need a strong, unambiguous signal that corruption is an unforgivable betrayal of trust.

An Executive Bill that makes corruption, particularly involving public resources meant for health, education, security, or infrastructure: a capital offence would shake the conscience of the political class and send a clear message that Nigeria is finally serious about governance and justice.

Moreover, making corruption a capital offence would serve as a powerful deterrent. Fear of severe punishment has always been a formidable weapon against crime. 

Those entrusted with public funds must realize that stealing from the people is akin to stealing lives, and it must attract the highest punishment under the law.

If President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Governors fail to act decisively, Nigerians will have every reason to conclude that the current leadership is merely paying lip service to the fight against corruption.

To support half-measures is to support corruption itself. And to support corruption is to sabotage the future of millions of unborn Nigerians.

"A nation that pampers corruption mortgages its destiny. Nigeria must choose: Justice or Decay." — Chief Olawale Ojoge-Daniel

Furthermore, all patriotic politicians must rise in unison to support this historic and moral imperative. Governors, in particular, must champion this move within their respective states, enacting similar laws to make grand corruption a capital offence at the sub-national level.

Let it be known anyone who refuses to support this move is not a politician, but a thief in disguise, a polithiefian parading as a patriot.

History beckons. Posterity will be harsh on those who had the power to act but chose silence or cowardice. 

The moment is now. The decision is theirs.

Written by: ⏭️ Chief Olawale Ojoge-Daniel Legal Practitioner, Public Affairs Analyst, and Advocate for Good Governance

Monday, 28 April 2025

YOUTH SUMMIT 2025: ADEBISI YUSUF SAYS YOUTH VOICES WILL SHAPE THE POLICIES, POLITICS OF TODAY, TOMORROW AND THE VALUES OF OUR SOCIETY.

Chairman House Community on Youth and Sports, Honourable Yusuf Adebisi have expressed optimism towards the 2025 Youth Summit holding in Ibadan between 29th and 30th of April, 2025 with the aim to connecting the youths of the state together. With passion, driven, and eager to make a difference in their communities and the state.


He described the youths as leaders, dreamers, and innovators who hold the key to a brighter future, saying youths have unique stories, talents, and experiences; embody the spirit of a generation that refuses to be silenced, that cares deeply about social justice, climate change, education, and equality. 

“We live in a world that is rapidly changing. New technologies, shifting social norms, and the urgent challenges posed by climate change demand innovative solutions and fresh perspectives. You, as the youth of today, are more than just a demographic; you are a force for change. When you engage in your communities, advocate for the issues you care about, and take action, you inspire others to do the same”.

Youths must prioritize education and skills which are the two foundations we build our dreams. “It is crucial that you prioritize your learning—whether in the classroom, through mentorship, or via hands-on experiences. Seek out opportunities to develop your skills, explore your passions, and expand your knowledge. Remember, education is not just a stepping stone; it is a powerful tool that can elevate you and your community”. Adebisi said.

He charged the youths to be prompt and imbibed attentiveness as resources persons are coming for the program. 

Adebisi commend the ministry of youth and sports for the initiatives and other affiliate bodies of the youth across the state.

Oyo Youth summit is a two-day event which comprises of all zones in oyo state aimed at developing the mental skills of the attendees

Zamfara: The Time For State of Emergency Is Now* By Sani Aminu Aliyu

In Zamfara State, a sense of desperation hangs in the air like a thick fog. Bandits roam freely, kidnapping and killing with impunity,


while Governor Dauda Lawal sits at the center of the chaos, his administration embroiled in corruption and mismanagement. The state's economy lies in shambles, and citizens live in constant fear, wondering if their leader is more interested in exploiting the state's resources for personal gain than protecting its people. With lives lost and livelihoods destroyed, the people are crying out for drastic action - a state of emergency that would bring much-needed relief and restore order to their troubled state.

Zamfara State is currently navigating a tumultuous landscape of socio-political upheavals, marked by a near-total collapse of governance and economic activities that have hit rock bottom. Given the state's dire economic situation, security challenges, and the evident ineptitude of Governor Dauda Lawal, it's abundantly clear that the time for a state of emergency has arrived. Fundamentally, the governor has failed in his duties, succeeding only in polarizing the state and dismantling the institutions of democracy. The existence of two State Houses of Assembly is a direct result of the governor's attempt to expel lawmakers he perceives as unfriendly unless they pledge allegiance to him.


Lawal has effectively introduced a regime of violent extremism, quashing any counter-voices within the state. Through bribery and financial inducements, Governor Lawal has created an autocratic, totalitarian, and effectively tyrannical environment, bringing governance to a grinding halt. State institutions are now perceived as the governor's personal property, and he has exploited the state's resources, leveraging the ignorance and poverty of the people to fuel disunity and divisiveness among the various social groups. The breakdown of law and order is evident, with the apparatus of government being utilized for self-interest, territorial acquisition, and self-perpetuation.

The governor's reliance on unconventional strategies has transformed governance into a transactional game, where he outbids others to further his interests. This approach has corrupted the very essence of statehood, with sycophancy and oppression becoming the norm, and internal conflicts taking center stage. Rather than addressing the state's security and infrastructure challenges, Governor Dauda Lawal has opted for a regime of violence and unchecked killings. There are growing concerns that he is embroiled in malfeasance and military proxies, utilizing quasi-private military actors to consolidate power and facilitate illegal mining of solid minerals. This alleged complicity renders him incapable of resolving the state's insecurity issues. His denials appear to be mere attempts to deflect criticism, as the violence and exploitation persist. 

Under Governor Dauda Lawal's leadership, Zamfara State's institutions have been crippled, unable to implement policies, enforce laws, or provide essential services to its citizens. The state is hemorrhaging, with Governor Lawal's lack of capacity fueling instability, corruption, and a failure to meet the people's needs, resulting in widespread poverty. His administration's deficiencies, compounded by a weak legislative arm, have hindered economic development and led to a lack of accountability and transparency.

The reality on the ground starkly contrasts with the governor's paid media narrative, revealing a dire situation marked by neglected public services, inadequate healthcare, education, and security, and a cycle of poverty. The state's wealth appears to be concentrated in the hands of a few, controlled by Governor Lawal, who seems unable to manage resources for the greater good, instead fostering lawlessness, bad governance, and citizen frustration due to a lack of transparency and accountability.

Governor Dauda Lawal's neglect of the education sector, driven by his relentless pursuit of personal wealth, has relegated Zamfara State to the bottom of the educational ladder in Africa. Schools lack access to quality education, and economic opportunities are scarce, trapping individuals in a cycle of poverty. The governor's administration lacks direction, and his inability to manage the government effectively has exacerbated socioeconomic inequalities, diverted public funds, and eroded public trust.

Zamfara State, already disadvantaged, faces heightened vulnerability and barriers. Instead of fulfilling his social contract, Governor Lawal has delivered poverty, fear, and death to the people. The government's weakness and compromise are evident, marked by a lack of responsibility and accountability. Governor Lawal's inability to address security challenges and utilize resources effectively underscores his failure as a leader, highlighting his lack of experience, knowledge, and expertise to govern the state effectively.

Governor Dauda Lawal's leadership is marked by a lack of accuracy and objectivity, rendering him incapable of effectively managing governance issues or implementing solutions. He is an opportunist unfit for the office of governor, lacking the capacity to appreciate the complexities of governance and mobilize effective responses. His inability to comprehend the principles of separation of power, as outlined in the 1999 Constitution, is evident in his disregard for the independence of the legislature and judiciary.

He has failed to adhere to constitutional guidelines, such as the harmonized standing orders of state Houses of Assembly, which govern processes like suspension and impeachment, budgetary processes, and confirmation of appointments. This has resulted in a situation where the rule of law and checks and balances are no longer upheld, effectively declaring a state of emergency in Zamfara State. His actions pose a significant threat to democracy, and his removal is necessary to prevent further damage.

The people of Zamfara State are gripped by fear and uncertainty, unable to live their lives or conduct legitimate businesses in peace. The state's inability to guarantee security has led to a breakdown in public order, with bandit attacks becoming a daily occurrence. Communities are subjected to relentless assaults, resulting in loss of life, destruction of property, and mass abductions. The Community Protection Guards, tasked with protecting their communities, are also bearing the brunt of these attacks, with several members losing their lives in brutal and inhuman assaults.

Recent incidents, such as the killing of Murtala Fachi and two others on the Anka-Gusau road, and the deaths of seven more in separate attacks on villages in Zurmi Local Government Area, are stark reminders of the state's security crisis. The governor, as the chief security officer, appears incapable of protecting citizens or respecting their fundamental human rights, leaving the people of Zamfara State to fend for themselves in a desperate bid for survival.

Zamfara is trapped in a cycle of violence and terror, with armed bandits wreaking havoc on communities, killing, abducting, and extorting citizens. Recent attacks in various local government areas, including Bungudu, Maradun, Talata-Mafara, and others, have left scores dead and many more abducted. The attacks are not limited to loss of life and property but also include extortion, with bandits demanding huge sums from communities in exchange for sparing their lives or not attacking them.

The state governor's response to these attacks has been inadequate, with many believing he is out of touch with the reality on the ground. As the people of Zamfara State continue to suffer, there is a growing sense of desperation and frustration, with many calling for urgent action to address the security crisis and restore peace to the state. The governor's inaction in the face of these atrocities has led to widespread criticism, with many wondering if he is more interested in holding onto power than protecting the lives and livelihoods of his people.

The 1999 Nigerian Constitution grants the President the authority to declare a state of emergency in any state where public order and safety are compromised, posing a threat to the nation's stability. The situation in Zamfara State exemplifies such a scenario, with widespread insecurity and a breakdown of law and order exacerbated by the governor's actions. It appears that governance decisions in the state are driven by subjective and parochial interests, rather than objective considerations. Allegations of the governor's involvement in illegal gold mining further underscore the need for intervention. Given the dire circumstances, declaring a state of emergency in Zamfara State may be a necessary step to restore order and ensure the well-being of its citizens.

As the sun sets over the vast savannah of Zamfara, the people huddle in fear, their homes and livelihoods threatened by the shadows of bandits and corruption. A young girl, Fatima, sits by the window, her eyes fixed on the distant horizon, dreaming of a future where she can walk to school without fear of abduction, where her parents can farm without worrying about bandit attacks, and where her community can live in peace. The fate of Fatima and countless others hangs in the balance, as the state teeters on the brink of collapse. Will the authorities listen to their pleas and take decisive action, or will the darkness of despair consume the land?

Sani Aminu Aliyu, an indigene of Zamfara State, writes from Gusau.

Friday, 25 April 2025

North West Group Passes Vote of No Confidence on Defence Minister Over Rising Insecurity*

The North West Development Vanguard (NWDV) has criticised the Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, over the rising insecurity in the country, particularly in Benue and Plateau states where dozens have been killed in multiple attacks. 



The group is also calling for his immediate dismissal over what it describes as gross incompetence and political opportunism amid escalating security crises in Benue and Plateau states.


In a statement jointly signed by its President, Comrade Aminu Sani, and Secretary, Alhaji Bala Mohammed, the group condemned the minister’s handling of the deteriorating security situation in the country. 


“The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has failed in his primary responsibility to safeguard the lives and properties of Nigerians. His continued stay in office is a threat to national security and a betrayal of the trust reposed in him by the Nigerian people,” the statement reads.


The group highlighted recent attacks in Benue and Plateau states, where armed assailants have wreaked havoc on local communities. 


The statement noted that in Benue State, at least 50 persons were killed in separate attacks on Kastina-Ala and Logo Local Government Areas, with reports indicating that over 300 armed men, suspected to be militia from outside Nigeria, were involved in the assaults. Similarly, in Plateau State, over 100 people were killed in multiple attacks across Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas.


“These attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of insecurity that the Minister of Defence has consistently failed to address. His lack of proactive measures and failure to coordinate an effective response have emboldened these criminal elements,” the statement added. 


The group accused the minister of prioritizing personal political ambitions over national security concerns. 


“Instead of focusing on his duties, the Minister is busy engaging in political activities aimed at positioning himself for the 2027 presidential elections. This is a clear indication that he is more interested in power than in the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” the group said. 


The NWDV called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action by relieving Badaru of his duties. 


“The President must act decisively to restore public confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens. Sacking the Minister of Defence is a necessary step towards demonstrating that incompetence and negligence will not be tolerated under his watch,” the statement added.


In addition to the call for dismissal, the NWDV demanded a comprehensive review of the country’s security architecture. 


“There is an urgent need to reassess and restructure our security apparatus to ensure a more effective response to the challenges we face. This includes better intelligence gathering, increased funding for security agencies, and enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders.”


The group also appealed to civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the international community to join in advocating for improved security measures in Nigeria. 


“The fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility. We must all work together to ensure that our communities are safe and that those responsible for protecting us are held accountable.”


The group warned that unless those overseeing national security are held accountable, the bloodshed will persist and public trust in government will continue to deteriorate.

Zamfara: Group Calls for Emergency Rule Over Gov's Role in Assembly Crisis, Insecurity, Others

A group known as the Guardians of Justice and Democratic Leadership has strongly condemned the escalating crisis in Zamfara State, calling for a state of emergency to be declared due to Governor Dauda Lawal's alleged disregard for the rule of law and inaction on insecurity.


The group cited the ongoing power tussle between the governor and the Zamfara State House of Assembly, which has resulted in two parallel leaderships and a breakdown in governance.

The group's executive director, Patriot Abel Adams, expressed deep concern over the state's worsening security situation, with 14 local government councils experiencing rampant insecurity, killings, and destruction of properties.

Adams accused Governor Lawal of being one of the worst-performing governors in the country, lacking the capacity to govern and engaging in frivolous spending while the people suffered.

According to Adams, the governor's actions have emboldened bandits and kidnappers, who have sacked whole communities and made life unbearable for the people of the state.

"Rather than strenuously work at eliminating the hydra-headed challenges of poverty, kidnapping, and banditry, the governor would rather engage in frivolous spending, make hypocritical sympathy visits to victims of the almost daily attacks and the families of the dead," Adams said.

The group also criticised Lawal for presenting the state's 2025 budget to an illegitimate assembly leadership, further exacerbating the crisis.

They pointed out that the governor's actions are a clear disregard for the rule of law and the principles of separation of powers, which are fundamental to democracy.

"The governor should know that the same election that brought him to office and grants legitimacy to him as the governor is the same election that guarantees constitutional powers to the members of the State House of Assembly to act and represent their constituencies," Adams said.

"No authority confers on him a more deserving priority order than that he is the governor of the State and must act within the constitutional allowance of his office.

"He is required to observe the principles of the rule of law, the principles of separation of powers and the observance of Checks and Balance, tenets without which democracy is no longer democracy but authoritarianism.

"The governor in failing to truly understand the tenets of democracy and uphold same, has also failed to take a cursory look at the House Standing Rules, but instead has gone on a miserable sightseeing, thinking that as a governor he has total tyrannical control and that the State Legislators are stooges and thus intends to turn them to effective rubber stamps.

"He failed woefully and has mis-constructed and misconstrued our democracy and the separation of powers, undermining it and insulting our collective sensibilities. He also underestimated the resilience of the 24 gallant patriots of democracy.

"Unfortunately, he is left with no option but must obey the new leadership of the House of Assembly or face the wrath of the people in an escalating crisis, which will make the State completely ungovernable for him and directly compel a declaration of the State of Emergency. 

"We believe that the governor's actions are a recipe for chaos and anarchy, and it's only a matter of time before the situation becomes ungovernable. We call on the authorities to intervene and restore order in Zamfara State, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens."

The Guardians of Justice and Democratic Leadership also commended the 10 lawmakers who have been fighting for their rights and the rights of their constituents, despite facing intimidation and harassment from the governor's camp.

"These lawmakers have shown courage and conviction in standing up for what is right, and we urge them to continue to defend the interests of their constituents," Adams said.

The group's call for a state of emergency in Zamfara State is based on Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as Amended), which empowers the president to declare a state of emergency in a state where the structure of government has broken down.

"We believe that the situation in Zamfara State meets this criteria, and it's imperative that the authorities take swift action to restore order and stability," Adams said.

The group warned that if the situation is not addressed, it could lead to further escalation of violence, displacement of people, and humanitarian crisis.

They urged the authorities to take immediate action to address the security challenges and ensure that the government is accountable to the people.

The Guardians of Justice and Democratic Leadership urged the authorities to take immediate action to restore order and stability in Zamfara State, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.