Bodija Explosion: N30bn FG Intervention Fund Remains Untouched- Oyo Govt

By

-

January 1, 2026

The Governor Seyi Makinde administration in Oyo state has disclosed that the N30 billion Federal Government Intervention Fund for the Bodija Explosion remains intact.

The state government made the disclosure amid the reaction that trailed last week’s revelation by a former Governor of Ekiti state, Ayodele Fayose, to the effect that the state government has mismanaged the fund.

The former governor had also alleged that the state received N50 billion from the federal government, saying Governor Makinde was being economical with the truth concerning the matter.

According to Fayose, Governor Makinde only shared over N4billion to victims of the explosion, despite the huge amount it received from the federal government.

He has threatened to open more can of worms on the issue, calling on the state government to come clean over the issue.

But, in a statement on Thursday, signed

by the state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the government said the N30 billion it received from the federal government had been kept in dedicated account with the First Bank.

The Makinde administration said it deliberately did so in case controversy arose on the matter, saying the balance of N20 billion was yet to be redeemed from the N50 approved as intervention by the federal government on the explosion that his the state in December 2024.

Part of the statement:

“Following the unfortunate explosion that occurred on January 16, 2024, in the Bodija area of Ibadan, and being aware that intervention funds exist at the federal level for states facing emergencies, His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, Engr ‘Seyi Makinde, formally wrote to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requesting approval for financial support to assist the state in managing the disaster.

“In the letter dated January 19, 2024, Governor Makinde outlined the immediate steps already taken by the Oyo State Government to mitigate the impact of the explosion.

“These measures included the deployment of earth-moving equipment to aid search-and-rescue efforts; the hospitalisation of injured victims with all medical bills fully covered by the state government; the deployment of ambulances and medical personnel to the scene; and the provision of accommodation for displaced victims in hotels at the expense of the state government.

“The governor then highlighted additional areas where federal assistance was required. These included: clearing of rubble and debris as part of continued search and rescue operations; immediate integrity tests on buildings within the affected axis and demolition of unsafe structures; compensation for owners of affected properties; reconstruction of Old Bodija and its environs; expansion of the emergency response hub; environmental impact assessment; logistics support and reimbursement; and infrastructural development required to restore normalcy to Bodija and surrounding communities after the massive destruction.

“To address these needs, the Oyo State Government estimated the cost of intervention at N100 billion and requested the President’s approval for that amount. The president, however, approved N50 billion— half of the requested sum. The purpose of the approved fund was clearly stated by the Federal Government as ‘Support for the reconstruction of Old Bodija and environs after the Bodija explosion.” (See memo dated 29 August, 2024, from the Accountant General of the Federation to the Minister of Finance, released by the political agent of the Federal Government, Mr. Ayo Fayose).”

“Following the approval, an Oyo State Government Infrastructure Support Account (No. 2045199879) was opened with FirstBank of Nigeria for the intervention fund. Out of the approved N50 billion, the Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria, released N30 billion to Oyo State on

“As of Thursday, December 31, 2025, the N30 billion remained untouched in the Oyo State infrastructure account with the First Bank. Interested members of the public may verify this information with the bank.

“The Oyo State Government has deliberately refrained from utilising the N30 billion already released in recognition of the fact that the remaining N20 billion has remained withheld by the relevant federal agencies for reasons that have not been communicated to the state.

“Given the disgraceful drama of the last couple of days from the Federal Government on the approval, the government of Oyo State is convinced of the wisdom of its decision to ‘wait and see’ before deciding what to do with the money. Almost two years after the disaster, the Federal Government has yet to release the outstanding balance of N20 billion from the approved sum of N50 billion.

“The Oyo State Government remains committed to securing the balance of the approved funds to comprehensively address the damage caused by the explosion to both public and private properties. This is particularly important given the scale of the challenges faced by the state and the victims, many of whom have already been supported within the financial capacity of the state government.

“Following the explosion, Nigerians are aware of the swift and sustained efforts of the Oyo State government, which significantly mitigated the effects of the disaster. The state government did not wait for federal intervention, which came in November 2024, almost a year after the incident.

“As of today, January 1, 2026, the Oyo State government has spent N24.6 billion from its own resources on Bodija and its environs in direct response to the explosion and its consequences. This includes N20.141 billion spent on the reconstruction of infrastructure in Bodija and surrounding areas, as well as N4.085 billion paid as support and compensation to victims of the explosion. These expenditures were fully borne by the Oyo State Government.

“Documents released by the Federal Government through its agent, Mr Ayo Fayose, indicate that a total of N915.5 billion was approved as intervention funds for states across the country. The list of beneficiary states shows that one South-West state received N150 billion, while another received N50 billion. Oyo State, despite experiencing one of the most devastating incidents, received one of the lowest allocations among beneficiary states. Interested members of the public may consult the list for verification.

“Special intervention funds, when released, are received as capital grants. In line with standard practice and legal requirements, such funds are subjected to the budgeting process before expenditure and are duly reflected in the financial statements of the state. They do not require special public announcements upon receipt. This explains why other states that received significantly larger amounts did not publicly advertise the receipt of such funds.

“The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Engr ‘Seyi Makinde, appreciates the continued support and understanding of the people of the state. The government particularly thanks the people for their discernment in seeing through attempts by desperate political actors to exploit the 2024 tragic events of Bodija to gain an undeserved foothold in our state for personal and political gains.

“The Oyo State Government has nothing to hide and will continue to engage the public transparently on all issues, including this one. Governor Makinde remains committed to serving the people of Oyo State faithfully, truthfully, and with utmost respect for the social contract that binds government to the governed. He has never denied anyone what is legally due to them and will not do so. The Governor and the Government of Oyo State wish the people a happy, peaceful, and prosperous 2026,” the state government said.

Meanwhile, the question not a few Nigerians are asking is why the state government had remained quiet on the issue until Fayose opened the lid on it.

We Ended 2025 On A Strong Note – President Tinubu (Full Speech of New Year Message)

By

The Source

-

January 1, 2026

0

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — President Tinubu

Fellow Compatriots,

I welcome you all to 2026, with gratitude to God and confidence in our collective resolve that this new year will be a more prosperous one for our nation, our citizens, and all who call Nigeria home.

During 2025, we sustained the momentum on our major reforms. We had a fiscal reset and also recorded steady economic progress. Despite persistent global economic headwinds, we recorded tangible and measurable gains, particularly in the economy. These achievements reaffirm our belief that the difficult but necessary reforms we embarked upon are moving us in the right direction with more concrete results on the horizon for the ordinary Nigerian.

Economic progress and outlook

As we enter 2026, our focus is on consolidating these gains and continuing to build a resilient, sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy.

We closed 2025 on a strong note. Despite the policies to fight inflation, Nigeria recorded a robust GDP growth each quarter, with annualised growth expected to exceed 4 per cent for the year. We maintained trade surpluses and achieved greater exchange rate stability. Inflation declined steadily and reached below 15 per cent, in line with our target. In 2026, we are determined to reduce inflation further and ensure that the benefits of reform reach every Nigerian household. In 2025, the Nigerian Stock Exchange outperformed its peers, posting a robust 48.12 per cent gain and consolidating its bullish run that began in the second half of 2023.

Supported by sound monetary policy management, our foreign reserves stood at $45.4 billion as of December 29, 2025, providing a substantial buffer against external shocks for the Naira. We expect this position to strengthen further in the new year.

Foreign direct investment is also responding positively. In the third quarter of 2025, FDI rose to $720 million, up from $90 million in the preceding quarter, reflecting renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction, which global credit rating agencies, including Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, have consistently affirmed and applauded.

Fiscal discipline and tax reform

A few days ago, I presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly. In that address, I emphasised that our administration has implemented critical reforms that are laying a solid foundation for long-term stability and prosperity. With patience, fiscal discipline, and unity of purpose, Nigeria will emerge in 2026 stronger and better positioned for sustained growth.

As inflation and interest rates moderate, we expect increased fiscal space for productive investment in infrastructure and human capital development. We are also confronting the challenge of multiple taxation across all tiers of government. I commend states that have aligned with the national tax harmonisation agenda by adopting harmonised tax laws to reduce the excessive burden of taxes, levies, and fees on our people and on basic consumption.

The new year marks a critical phase in implementing our tax reforms, designed to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria. By harmonising our tax system, we aim to raise revenue sustainably, address fiscal distortions and strengthen our capacity to finance infrastructure and social investments that will deliver shared prosperity.

Security and national stability

My fellow Nigerians, the path of reform is never easy, but it is necessary. We remain mindful that economic progress must be accompanied by security and peace.

Our nation continues to confront security threats from criminal and terrorist elements determined to disrupt our way of life. In collaboration with international partners, including the United States, decisive actions were taken against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest on December 24. Our Armed Forces have since sustained operations against terror networks and criminal strongholds across the Northwest and Northeast.

In 2026, our security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security. We remain committed to protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of our country. I continue to believe that a decentralised policing system with appropriate safeguards, complemented by properly regulated forest guards, all anchored on accountability, is critical to effectively addressing terrorism, banditry, and related security challenges.

Inclusive and social development

The new year marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in the lives of our people. We will accelerate the implementation of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aiming to bring at least 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity by empowering at least 1,000 people in each of the 8,809 wards across the country.

Through agriculture, trade, food processing, and mining, we will stimulate local economies and expand grassroots opportunities. We will also continue to invest in modernising Nigeria’s infrastructure – roads, power, ports, railways, airports, pipelines, healthcare, education, and agriculture to strengthen food security and improve quality of life. All ongoing projects will continue without interruption.

A call to unity responsibility

To achieve our objectives in 2026, we must all play our part. Nation-building is a shared responsibility. We must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honour and integrity in our respective roles. Let us resolve to be better citizens, better neighbours, and better stewards of our nation.

Fellow Nigerians, I wish you all a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year. May God continue to bless and protect our beloved country, keep our troops safe and destroy the enemies bent on disrupting our national peace, security and stability.

Happy New Year to you all.

BOLA AHMED TINUBU

PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

JANUARY 1, 2026

New Tax Law: Coalition Of Northern Groups Accuse President Tinubu Of Hidden Agenda

By

Ayodele Oni

-

January 1, 2026

0

By Ayodele Oni

As the new Tax Law takes effect from Thursday, January 1, a Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has accused the presidency, working alongside the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, of pursuing an ulterior agenda that could worsen the hardship faced by Nigerians through what it termed the reckless enforcement of flawed and legally questionable tax reforms.

The coalition condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s insistence on implementing the newly enacted tax reform laws from 1st January, 2026, describing the move as an assault on democracy amid unresolved allegations that the laws were materially altered after passage by the National Assembly.

The CNG unequivocally condemned the posture, which it stated represented an assault on democracy and democratic values.

This, according to the group, was ironically coming from an individual who claims to be a beneficiary and product of democratic struggle.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG expressed concern over what it described as credible discrepancies between the versions of the tax laws debated and passed by lawmakers and those eventually transmitted for gazetting.

According to the groups, a review of verified facts, expert legal opinions, and submissions by lawmakers and independent observers indicated that the gazetted versions do not reflect what was approved by the National Assembly.

Charanchi said: “These discrepancies are not minor drafting errors; they are substantive alterations that strike at the heart of legislative authority, constitutional order, and the rule of law.

“This desperate push, despite glaring procedural breaches and widespread public opposition, betrays a governing mindset increasingly detached from democratic accountability, constitutional restraint, and social responsibility.”

Charanchi faulted Tinubu for what it described as a contradiction between his pro-democracy credentials and his current posture, accusing him of ignoring widespread public calls for the suspension and review of the tax laws.

He added, “Rather than heed the legitimate and widespread calls by Nigerians for the suspension and review of these bills, the Presidency has chosen arrogance over dialogue and coercion over consensus.

This contradiction between professed democratic credentials and present authoritarian conduct exposes a dangerous erosion of the very values the President once claimed to defend.

“Contrary to the Presidency’s claim that ‘no substantial issue has been established,’ the controversy surrounding the alleged post-passage alteration of the tax laws remains serious, unresolved, and constitutionally significant.

“Any law altered after legislative approval, without fresh debate and re-passage by the National Assembly, cannot be considered valid under Nigeria’s constitutional framework. To insist on enforcing such laws amounts to executive overreach and a direct assault on democratic governance.

“No amount of rhetoric about ‘structural reset’ or ‘once-in-a-generation reforms’ can justify bypassing due process or imposing legislation of questionable legitimacy on Nigerians.

“This posture only reinforces the suspicion that there is an ulterior motive behind the so-called tax reforms.

“The CNG is equally alarmed by the disgraceful conduct of the National Assembly, which has increasingly abandoned its constitutional role as a coequal arm of government.

“The spectacle of lawmakers openly chanting ‘on your mandate we stand’ during President Tinubu’s appearance in the legislative chamber was not merely embarrassing; it was a public declaration of legislative surrender.

“A legislature that cannot defend the integrity of laws it claims to have passed has forfeited its independence and betrayed the trust of the Nigerian people.

“By failing to assert its authority in the face of alleged alterations to duly passed legislation, the National Assembly has reduced itself to an appendage of the Executive, undermined the doctrine of separation of powers, and weakened democratic accountability.

“This conduct erodes public confidence and sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the foundations of constitutional governance in Nigeria.

“If, as the Presidency insists, these tax reforms are people-centred and designed to strengthen the social contract, one must ask: why the desperate rush to implement them on January 1, 2026, amid unresolved disputes, public skepticism, and open disagreement even among lawmakers?

“Why the obsession with speed when Nigerians are already grappling with severe economic hardship, poverty, insecurity, and unemployment? Responsible governance demands caution, transparency, and consensus, not intimidation and executive fiat.

“Millions of Nigerians are already overstretched by economic distress. Any tax reform imposed through questionable processes will only deepen public resentment, weaken state–citizen relations, and reinforce perceptions of injustice, exclusion, and elite insensitivity.

“The CNG rejects any attempt to railroad Nigerians into compliance with laws whose legitimacy is in doubt.”

Questioning the urgency behind the January 1, 2026, implementation date, the CNG asked why the government was rushing reforms amid unresolved disputes, economic hardship, insecurity, poverty, and unemployment.

Ondo New Year Eve Attack: Gov. Aiyedatiwa Places Security Agents On Alert

By

Ayodele Oni

-

January 1, 2026

0

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed that all security formations across the state be placed on red alert to forestall any further security breach.

The governor’s action followed the invasion of a police station at Ipele in Owo local government on New Year Eve by suspected Bandits who burnt down the building.

In a statement on Thursday, by Allen Sowore, Special Adviser to the Ondo state Governor (Communication & Strategy), confirmed that no church was attacked and no life lost during the incident.

“In the early hours of Wednesday, 1st January 2026, while residents of Ondo State were in the celebratory mood to usher in the New Year, suspected bandits riding on motorcycles attacked and vandalised the Divisional Police Station at Ipele, in Owo Local Government Area of the state.

“Security agencies in the state swiftly swung into action, forcing the assailants to flee. The proactive and coordinated response of the security agencies have since brought the security situation under firm control while significantly reducing the supposed extent of the damage.

“Following a thorough assessment, the Ondo State Government can confirm that only the police facility was affected. No church was attacked and no life was lost during the incident.

“Calm has since returned to the community, as security agencies have taken charge of the area and are currently on the trail of the fleeing assailants.

“The Ondo State Government reassures residents of Ipele and the entire state of their safety and urges them to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, while security agencies intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.”

Suspected Bandits Abduct Kwara Monarch, Son, Shoot Wife

By

Ayodele Oni

-

January 1, 2026

0

By Ayodele Oni

Kwara state police command has confirmed the abduction of another traditional ruler and one of his children by gunmen, while one of the wives sustained injuries from gunshots.

The Gunmen abducted the Aniwo 1 of Aafin community in the Ile-Ire District of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun, and one of his sons, Olaolu, during a late-night attack on the monarch’s palace.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night, New Year’s Eve, when about eight armed men reportedly stormed the palace around 8 p.m., firing sporadically and demanding to see the traditional ruler and his wife.

A family source, that was inside the palace during the attack told reporters that panic broke out as residents attempted to secure the building after noticing unusual movements outside.

The assailants allegedly responded by opening fire and forcibly breaking into the palace.

According to the source, the gunmen gained entry after smashing the doors and demanded the presence of the monarch.

Oba Olaonipekun reportedly came out to meet them, while the attackers also insisted on seeing his wife. During the invasion, the queen was said to have sustained a gunshot injury to her arm.

The attackers also seized one of the monarch’s sons, who reportedly came out from hiding alongside the queen in an effort to prevent further violence. At the time of the incident, about 10 family members were said to be in the palace to spend the holiday with the monarch.

The source added that the leader of the assailants spoke fluent English and appeared to be specifically targeting the monarch and his wife. After the gunmen left with the abducted victims, the injured queen was rushed to a hospital for treatment.

Local vigilantes were reportedly unable to repel the attackers due to limited manpower, with only two members on duty at the time of the incident. The abduction was subsequently reported to nearby police divisions and local security outfits on the same night.

When contacted, the Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed awareness of the incident but said full details were still being gathered.

In a similar incident in November, the Ojibara of Bayagan-Ile, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, was abducted from his farm in the same local government area and later released after weeks in captivity.

New Year: Ondo Gov Aiyedatiwa Grants Clemency To 77 Inmates

By

Ayodele Oni

-

January 1, 2026

0

By Ayodele Oni

77 inmates across correctional facilities in Ondo state are lucky beneficiaries of clemency from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as part of activities to mark the January 1, 2026 New Year celebration.

The approval followed recommendations by the Ondo State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, who chairs the council, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Akure.

Ajulo said the beneficiaries were carefully selected after a thorough review of their cases by the council.

“In commemoration of the January 1, 2026 New Year Day celebration, the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy recommended a total of 77 convicts for the mercy of Mr Governor

“In making the recommendations, the council considered the nature of offences, length of time served, conduct and behaviour in custody, age, health condition, rehabilitation efforts, prospects of reintegration, as well as reports from correctional and legal authorities,” he said.

He noted that after due consideration, Governor Aiyedatiwa approved the recommendations in line with his commitment to justice, rehabilitation, and humane governance.

A breakdown of the approved clemency shows that 12 inmates were granted outright release, while death sentences of 22 condemned inmates were commuted to life imprisonment or fixed jail terms.

The governor also approved the reduction of life sentences to 25 years for four inmates, 20 years for 14 inmates, 15 years for 15 inmates, and 10 years for six inmates.

In addition, four inmates had their sentences commuted to lesser terms of imprisonment.

Ajulo commended the governor for what he described as a compassionate and forward-looking decision, noting that the gesture would help decongest correctional centers and give deserving inmates a second chance.

According to him, the exercise reflects the governor’s dedication to justice sector reforms and the reintegration of reformed inmates into society.

Gunmen Attack, Burn Down Police Station In Ondo On New Year Eve

By

Ayodele Oni

-

January 1, 2026

0

By Ayodele Oni

As people were preparing for the crossover night vigil to the new year, some gunmen, numbering 30 invaded a police station in Ondo state and set it ablaze.

The action, which caught the state police command unaware, caused pandemonium at Ipele community forcing people to take cover and boycotted the crossover vigil.

The state police command has already deployed more reinforcement to the community forcing the attackers to retreat.

The Command, in a statement, condemned the attack on the Ipele Divisional Police Headquarters in Ondo State, which occurred on 31st December, 2025.

The Command clarified that, contrary to reports circulating on social media, no church was attacked during the incident.

A statement by the spokesman, Jimoh Abayomi, explained that based on “preliminary reports, at about 9:41 p.m., a group of armed men numbering between 20 and 30 invaded the police station, firing assault rifles and deploying dynamite.

“The attackers set the station ablaze, leading to the destruction of the building and several exhibits. However, no life was lost in the attack as of the time of this report.

“Upon receipt of the report, a joint patrol comprising the Police, Military, Civil Defence, and other non-state actors promptly mobilized to the scene; however, the attackers had already carried out the act before their arrival.”

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a tragic and reprehensible act against the peace and security of Ondo State.

He urged members of the public to remain calm, assuring them that the situation is firmly under control.

Consequently, the CP has ordered the immediate deployment of additional operational assets, including Tactical Teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) units, and Police Mobile Force personnel to the area while the situation is under control.

A coordinated manhunt for the attackers is currently underway.

It Is Time For National Unity and Prosperity

By

The Source

-

January 1, 2026

0

Remarks by H.E. Peter Obi, Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party Presidential Candidate in Nigeria 2023 Presidential Election At Enugu on 31st December 2025 on formally dumping LP for ADC, and declaring interest in the 2027 Presidential seat.

Yes, the year 2025 ends today, we stand on the threshold of a new year, which we hope will mark the beginning of Nigeria’s long-awaited socio economic transformation. For every nation, and people, moments of profound national challenge demand clarity of purpose, courage, and decisive action, for Nigeria, that moment is now!

Many have said that Nigeria is an independent country in name, yet today we must begin a new struggle: the struggle for true independence based on self-determination, human equality, and national reunification. We must reclaim our country from a small group of opportunists who have captured the corridors of power and return it to its rightful owners – the Nigerian people!

What is most painful is that many of those who once benefited from democratic governance have now become accessories to a stolen mandate, shamelessly celebrating electoral injustice in public, and working hard to destroy democracy through coercion, manipulation and outright gangsterism particularly on opposition parties. Let me assure Nigerians that we will defend our fragile democracy and make it resilient. We will decisively defeat any attempt by the ruling party and its agents to manipulate or rig future elections. The will of the Nigerian people is sacrosanct, non-negotiable and those plotting to subvert it in 2027 should rethink their actions. Nigerians have endured enough and will resist any assault on their mandate through all lawful and legitimate means.

Because weak national institutions, particularlythe Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), contributed significantly to our present crisis, we most strongly demand urgent reforms of the entire electoral process.We demand credible and transparent elections that are free and fair and based on strict adherence to electoral laws, starting with prescribed educational qualification for eligibility for election and transmission of results as voted. At the heart of our coming national transformationis electoral integrity which will promote responsive governance. We can no longer toy with electoral integrity especially as we see the tragedies of truncated democracies across West Africa. Nigeria is too big and important to the black race and the global economy to remain a failure. We must protect democracy in Nigeria by ensuring credible elections in 2027.

Rethinking Nigeria: The Need for Unity:

It is public knowledge that Nigeria is in grave distress. Our democracy is under threat. Our nation is adrift. Our people are in persistent agony. Today, Nigeria is widely described as a failing and disgraced nation. This is not the destiny that Almighty God bequeathed to over 220 million Nigerians. It was not always so and should not remain so. Across all recognized indicators of good governance – accountability, political stability, rule of law, control of corruption, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, and separation of powers – Nigeria records negative marks.

With over 130 million Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty, more than 80 million youths unemployed, worsening insecurity, fiscal recklessness, disunity and the absence of inclusive governance, like many patriotic Nigerians, I am deeply disturbed by the state of our nation. The question on everyone’s lips is whether there is still hope for Nigeria. Despite the gravity of our situation, I remain firmly optimistic! Given our immense human and natural resources, I am convinced that a new Nigeria is possible—a functional, productive and inclusive nation.

Motivated by my desperation for a New Nigeria That Is Possible, I am in constant search for possible solutions to make Nigeria work for all Nigerians, to make Nigeria an inclusive and progressively sustainable nation. While we are faced with litany of socio-economic problems, the absence of unity caused by dishonest, corrupt and ineffective leadership is at the heartof our problems.

In addition to my various leadership training in many renowned institutions including Lagos Business School; Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge universities; INSEAD; IMD and LSE, my desire to see a better and functional Nigeria has sustained my search for knowledge on leadership and nation building. All my readings and travels over many years have been primarily focused on understanding what promotes national unity and national transformation, and how to embed deep rooted unity and effective leadership in our dear nation, Nigeria. Let me mention few insights that are still very fresh in my mind.

Having observed and read extensively on conflict, disunity, reconciliation, unity, and development, I travelled and met with one of the best authors, Professor Nicole Fox of California State University, who wrote on conflict, reconciliation, and the transformation of Rwanda. Her writings inspired in me a confidence that Nigeria can move from conflict and instability to consensus and rapid socio-economic transformation. To have a first-hand experience of how Rwanda was transformed, I travelled to Rwanda and had the opportunity of having a valuable time with President Paul Kagame to further learn from his experiences in the leadership of Rwanda. It has remained one of my most treasured learning experiences.

In discussing and learning from President Kagame, I saw a leader deeply committed to the unity and socio-economic transformation of his country, evident in the growth of GDP per capita from about $200 in 1995 to over $1,000 in 2025—a phenomenal 500% increase. In comparison, Nigeria’s GDP per capita in 1995 was $1,225 and has lamentably declined to below $1,000 in 2025, a decline after 30 years of supposed nation-building in a country proudly called the “Giant of Africa.”

Shocked by the gap in GDP per capita and other development indices between Nigeria and other emerging economies, I got curious to find out the reason for this divergence. This led me to read the book Growing Apart: Politics and Economic Change in Indonesia and Nigeria by Professor Peter Lewis of JohnsHopkins University. In this fascinating and deeply revealing book, Professor Lewis most convincingly showed how policy choices, state institutions, national unity, and leadership shape sustainable economic development or under development. While Nigeria and Indonesia had similar characteristics of high population, cultural heterogeneity, and agrarian economies, the current gap observable in almost all key socio-economic indicators can be attributed to the power of leadership and unity, and their utilisation for effective nation-building and socio-economic transformation.

Disturbed by the insights from the book, I travelled to JohnsHopkins University and met Professor Peter Lewis. The meeting and learning were even more shocking than the revelations from the book. Following that, I travelled to Indonesia and had meetings with Ministers of Education, Planning, Health, Small Villages, Small Businesses, the Vice President, and one of their most popular leaders, President Joko Widodo, to learn more about how they achieved such significant success.

While Indonesia has significantly transformed into a commendable success, with a GDP of above $1.4 trillion, the first in South-East Asia to cross the 1 trillion mark, and a per capita of about $5300, it is the largest economy in South-East Asia. On the contrary, with the GDP of $240 Billion and Per Capita of below $1000 our dear country Nigeria is experiencing socio-economic confusion, de-industrialisation, pervasive corruption, conflict, and increased poverty.

In conclusion, Professor Lewis maintains that Indonesia achieved commendable progress largely due to how its leaders and government managed their resources, while Nigeria became more underdeveloped, fragmented, and poorer due to how we consumed and squandered our resources.

It is the same state of sadness, shock and hope that you get when you read other books like From Third World to the First by Lee KuanYew; How Asia Works: Success and Failures in the World’s Most Dynamic Region by Joe Studwell and Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity and Poverty by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson.

Fascinated by the insights from these readings and disturbed by the comments of one of the winners of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Economics, Prof. James Robinson, that nations like Nigeria know what to do to prosper but refuse to do so, I travelled to the University of Chicago to meet and further learn from him. A key outcome is that our problem in Nigeria is one of leadership and lack of unity. Our dear nation cannot grow and develop without unity and competent leadership as against the current political leadership adept at exploiting our differences. Their expertise lies in creating more divisions to sustain themselves in power, with little or no interest in unity and the inclusive development of Nigeria.

It is the same desire to learn that informs myintensive engagements in Nigeria, with regular visits and robust relationships across our states, local governments, villages, and communities. What we urgently need is leadership and a government that can deeply appreciate our potential and resiliently unify our diversity for rapid socio-economic transformation and inclusive development.

Nigeria’s problem is not a lack of potential. We are endowed with enormous human and natural resources. Our prevailing tragedy is the result of deliberate sabotage of our potential by a political class that cultivates disunity and feeds fat on our dysfunctionalism. As a nation, we are not poor; we are looted into poverty. As a nation, we are not broken; we are severely betrayed.

The average Nigerian is not lazy, not corrupt, and not incompetent. But the system is rigged against him or her. The system is rigged to reward mediocrity, punish merit, and recycle failure. Nigeria is not collapsing under the weight of its people. Nigeria is suffocating under the weight of impunity and greed of her leadership. This government excels at rewarding illegalities and corrupt practices, and until we confront this truth, no amount of reform will save us. We want a genuine and patriotic political change, not a cosmetic makeover.

To my fellow Nigerians at home and abroad, this is not the time for despair, detachment, diplomatic silence, or ethnic chauvinism. It is a time for us to unite as Nigerians to salvage our dear country. The choice is between despair that leads to the continuity of the decay of power or the courage to disrupt the prevailing decadence, state capture, and formalised criminality in the name of governance.

I have visited every nook and cranny of this country. I have gone to IDP camps, which those in government fear to visit or even refuse topublicly acknowledge their existence. From North to South and West to East, Nigerians have never felt so insecure and so divided; this should not be our fate or our common heritage. For the sake of God and country, for the sake of the hungry, the poor, and out-of-school children, and for the sake of those yet unborn, we must unite and collectively dismantle the criminal enterprise that is destroying Nigeria. A New Nigeria is Indeed Possible!

With unity and effective leadership, we will strategically support agriculture and manufacturing to become the highest contributors to our GDP. To achieve this, special attention must be paid to developing the agricultural potential of Northern Nigeria. With unity, we will move Nigeria from consumption to production. With unity and effective leadership, we will defeat insecurity, corruption, unemployment, inflation, illiteracy, and many other socio-economic problems confronting us. With unity and effective leadership, a new Nigeria—a productive and inclusive Nigeria is Possible!

Let me say something more about national unity. As I travel across the world and listen to leaders who have transformed their nations, I observe that one of the critical ingredients for economic and socio-economic transformation is national consensus. Leaders who build transformative consensus have one common characteristic. They are honest and truthful. They love their people and tell them the truth all the time. This is the reason George Orwell described government as the art of telling the people the truth. Government should be transparent and honest because the people deserve the truth from their leaders. Transformative leaders tell their people the truth; they do not exploit the people to enrich themselves and few cronies.

In the context of the foregoing, it is good to reflect on the current tax fraud saga. I have always said that the goal of a good fiscal policy is to make the people and the country rich. There is no value in boasting of increase in public revenue while the people starve. Tax is a form of social contract. When the people are richer because government supports them with good policies, the people pay more taxes to government. It is bad fiscal policy for the government to make the people poorer and still tax them more. Taxing poverty will not create wealth. It will lead to more poverty. Our new, planned tax regime fails the fundamental principle of good fiscal policy. It does not create wealth for the people; it makes the people poorer.

Today, for the first time in our history, a tax law is reported to be forged. The National Assembly now admits that the tax law on the gazette is not what it passed as law. Government wantsNigerian citizens to pay more taxes based on forged tax laws, with no benefits. Forgery and manipulation are increasingly penetrating government policies and most regrettably defining the foundation of our fiscal policy. We must change this dishonest social order. A forged tax regime cannot create wealth and sustain national unity. Leaders who delight in hurting the people with exploitative taxes are not nation builders. Leaders who delight in telling lies and hiding the ball from the people cannot mobilise the people for transformative work.

To build lasting unity and inclusive prosperity,we need honest, transparent, and responsive leadership. As the great revolutionary, Franz Fanon, once noted, “Every generation, must out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfil it or betray it.” This generation of leaders gathered here today must achieve our mission to courageously lead Nigeria away from its entrapment in poverty and disunity. We are a generation charged with disrupting the structure of criminal governance and recreating a new structure of unity and prosperity for all Nigerians. We can do it and we must do it!Many countries have done it under great leaders. I have studied and conversed with these leaders. If we do what they did, we will achieve even greater success.

In the past months, I have consulted broadly. The message has been consistent. Those who grab power by any means have mismanaged it. They have not led. They have not served. They wished they turned our plural society and democracy into a convenient one-party state. No way. That will not happen. They want to create a false narrative that the Nigerian people are weak and tired. It is not true! Nigerian voters are ready to vote them out. They want to create a false sense of invincibility. That is false. They have built a house of cards with lies and errors. It will collapse as we unite to fight. Democracy offers us the opportunity to reject them at the polls. Our job next time, in 2027, is to vote them out and keep vigil until they are out.

The Declaration

Fellow Nigerians, this is the time for unity and prosperity. The signs are clear, and the mission is settled. Having been part of the coalition from inception, I now respectfully call on my political leaders, associates, supporters, the Obidient Movement, political leaders and members of the opposition parties across the country to join this broad national coalition under the African Democratic Congress led by Sen. David Mark. This decision is guided solely by patriotism and national interest. We are working with leaders across political divides who share a common commitment to rescuing Nigeria. The task ahead is enormous, but it is not insurmountable. History may forgive wrong decisions, but it will not forgive silence in moments of national peril.

Do we deserve a government that thrives on division, propaganda and indifference to the suffering of its people? I do not believe so. Nigeria deserves patriotic leadership that unites and governs with empathy. Let history record that Nigeria’s turning point began here and now.

Together, let us move forward with courage, unity and resolve. A new, united, productive and inclusive Nigeria is possible.

God bless you all, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Ekiti Govt. Wades Into Monarch’s Deposition

By

Ayodele Oni

-

December 31, 2025

0

Monisade Afuye - Ekiti state deputy Governor

By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti state deputy governor, Monisola Afuye has appealed to the people of Epe, in Ijero local government to reopen the community’s palace to allow the monarch access to the place.

The people had chased Oba Williams Adesoye out of the palace and banished him from the community for being high handed and tyrannic.

Oba Adesoye was also accused of withholding monthly entitlements of some of his Chiefs.

While mediating in a case of deposition and banishment of Oba Adesoye from the throne by his subjects, the deputy governor appealed to the irate community members to forgive and offer the monarch a second chance to amend his perceived shortcomings.

It would be recalled that some youth backed by elite of the town, had a couple weeks ago staged consistent violent protest and forcefully banished the monarch from the town over alleged high-handedness, unruly actions and display of behaviours that were antithetical to traditional norms.

Mrs Afuye, in a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, appealed to the town to accept the apologies tendered by the embattled monarch.

To nip the crisis in the bud expeditiously, Mrs Afuye, directed the two warring factions to within seven days meet at the palace of Ajero of Ijero Ekiti and the Paramount ruler of Ijero kingdom, Oba Joseph Adewole and settle the crisis wholesomely.

Mrs Afuye also appealed to the town to reopen the shut palace at the appointed time stipulated by the tradition for the monarch to have access and administer over his town, but with a warning that he should be ready to accommodate all his opponents.

The Deputy Governor, said any town without substantive monarch can’t witness meaningful development, which makes it instructive for the subjects to have a change of heart and give the monarch a second chance.

As part of the terms of reference to wriggle the monarch out of crisis, Mrs Afuye, urged the traditional ruler to release the farmland that has caused problem between him and a faction of the ruling house to the rightful owner and should be ready to accept all the chiefs opposed to him.

“The governor didn’t want to hear that our communities are experiencing violence and instability. All over the country, Ekiti is rated as the most peaceful and we are maintaining that status.

“The ways we handle our chieftaincy and land matters have become a template in this country.

“I appeal to you, let us forgive and forget. But Kabiyesi, you have to change your ways. The Epe Day that you have abandoned, I want you to work with the elites and chiefs to achieve this. Your people loved you. Please, don’t misbehave to them.

“From today, be accommodating and anytime you are angry with your people, try and consult those who can intervene.

“This is the more reason why you have Ajero as your guide. You can’t afford to misbehave to those who enthroned you because the ultimate power belongs to them.”

The Ejemoye of Epe Ekiti and second in command, Chief Olajide Dada, lamented that the monarch had problems with the kingmakers, youth, elite and virtually all the women groups in the town.

Chief Dada accused the monarch of arbitrarily suspending the kingmakers and chiefs that were opposed to him without deferring to higher authorities, saying “we can’t work with him again. He had defiled our town by his actions and on that deposition we stand.”

But Chief Dada thanked the state government and Ajero for their swift interventions, saying the people may have a second thought about their position, if the monarch exhibits enough penitence.

In his defence, the embattled Oba Adesoye, who apologized to his subjects, including chiefs, youth and women groups, denied involvement in the withholding of stipends to some suspended chiefs, saying he had long given the chiefs the leeway to direct their own affairs in this regard.

Oba Adesoye assured the state government and the concerned stakeholders that he would amend his ways and unite with all the subjects for rapid development of Epe community.

The monarch pledged to liaise with all relevant authorities for prompt release of those that were detained and charged to court in relation to the crisis on his prompting .

The Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole, appealed to the community to forgive the monarch and allow the matter to be resolved amicably in the spirit of peace , unity and stability, warning that deposing the king may derail the development of the town.

Oba Adewole, who is the Paramount ruler of Ijero kingdom, disclosed that the king has just understood that ultimate power belongs to the people, saying it was wrong and flies in the face of tradition for monarch to be dictatorial and tyrannic.

“If you remove him, there will be a setback. He has apologized, I beg you, kindly accept his apologies , for your own good and for the sake of your generations yet unborn.”

For Allegedly Assaulting Magistrate, Court Orders Arrest, Detention Of Ondo Commissioner

By

Ayodele Oni

-

December 31, 2025

0

By Ayodele Oni

A Magistrate Court sitting in Akure, the Ondo State capital, has ordered the arrest of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Seun Osamaye.

The commissioner is being accused of an alleged assault of a Chief Magistrate, Mrs Temitope Alphonso, during an official visit to her office.

The court order followed allegations that the commissioner verbally and physically assaulted Magistrate Alphonso at the Ministry of Women Affairs during an official visit by the judicial officer to the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, in the presence of staff.

According to court documents, the incident was said to have stemmed from a judgment earlier delivered by Magistrate Alphonso, which was reportedly unfavourable to the commissioner.

In an affidavit attached to the charge, the magistrate alleged that the commissioner subjected her to verbal abuse and threats, including claims of political influence and intimidation.

The affidavit stated that when the magistrate asked the commissioner to stop cursing, she was allegedly told to “shut up” and was described as “a mere magistrate,” with further claims that even the Chief Judge of Ondo State could not challenge her authority.

It was further alleged that the commissioner warned the magistrate to “watch her back,” boasting that she had the means to make her “go missing,” while beating her chest during the threat.

She was also accused of saying that neither the Governor nor the Chief Judge would be able to save the magistrate.

At the hearing, the commissioner failed to appear in court. Her counsel, Mr Adewusi, told the court that she was receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Ilara-Mokin and requested a stand-down to allow time to present proof of her condition.

The presiding magistrate, Mr Damilola Sekoni, granted a one-and-a-half-hour stand-down. Upon resumption, the defence presented a medical report, which was immediately challenged by the prosecuting counsel over its authenticity.

In his ruling, Magistrate Sekoni rejected the medical report, describing it as inadequate and lacking critical details such as the date and time of admission or confirmation that the commissioner was unfit to attend court. He held that the document failed to justify her absence.

Citing what he described as a clear disregard for the authority of the court, the magistrate ordered the arrest of Mrs Osamaye and directed that she be remanded in prison custody. The case was adjourned to January 12 for further hearing.