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Alleged Unprofessional Misconduct: LPDC Rejects Afe Babalola’s Bid To Derobe Dele Farotimi

December 24, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Citing jurisdictional limitations, the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has rejected request by Chief Afe Babalola SAN’s law firm, Emmanuel Chambers, to revoke the law practicing license of controversial lawyer and author, Tomilola Titus Farotimi, also known as Dele Farotimi, over allegations of criminal defamation and professional misconduct.

Farotimi was brought before the LPDC based on a petition authored by Mr. Ola Faro, a lawyer in Emmanuel Chambers.

The petition had alleged that Farotimi, in his book Nigeria and Criminal Justice System, made defamatory statements against the Supreme Court and the legal profession.

The book reportedly referenced suit number SC/146/2006 between Major Muritala Gbadamosi Eletu and HRH Oba Tijani Akinloye and others, claiming corruption, bribery, and other unethical practices involving judicial officers and the legal community.

The petition accused Farotimi of distorting case facts, disrespecting fellow lawyers, and engaging in actions that obstructed justice for personal gain.

Specific grievances included references to a Supreme Court judgment that affected multiple residential estates and subsequent legal proceedings undermining the apex court’s decision.

Emmanuel Chambers claimed that Farotimi’s book violated several sections of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023 and requested that his name be struck off the Roll of Legal Practitioners.

However, in its report (B8B/LPDC/1571/2024), the LPDC determined that the alleged offences occurred in Farotimi’s capacity as an author, not during his practice as a legal professional.

The LPDC concluded that it lacked jurisdiction to address complaints about publications and advised aggrieved parties to seek redress in regular courts.

The LPDC’s report stated: “The publication is an intellectual property and not a conduct or action committed while practicing as a Legal Practitioner.

“All aggrieved parties who find the publication ‘defamatory’ should ventilate their grievances through the regular courts.”

LPDC Chairman, Justice Isaq Usman Bello, affirmed that the petition could not be granted due to jurisdictional limitations.

President Tinubu Gives Hope Of Brighter Future At Christmas

Ayodele Oni

December 24, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has again reassured Nigerians of brighter future as he expressed felicitations to all at Christmas.

A statement personally signed by the president reads “On this joyous Christmas Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Christians across Nigeria and worldwide as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy Scriptures.

“Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity. It is a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths. Indeed, God is with us.

“Recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply sadden us, and our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heartbreaking incidents.

“We earnestly pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities and that the lives of innocents are never again cut short.

“I offer my deepest sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fires, or accidents.

“May we all find comfort and solace in our faith, the support of loved ones, and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ. Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the brokenhearted, and the sick.

“As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms.

“Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement.

“We must also honour our brave troops, who risk their lives to safeguard our nation. They deserve our prayers and steadfast support.

“Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity.

“Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria.

“For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient.

“We also provide free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year.”

BREAKING: Farotimi Finally Regains Freedom

Akinwale Kasali

December 24, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

Dele Farotimi, Human Rights Activist and Lawyer, has finally regained freedom after meeting bail conditions slammed on him by the Ekiti High Court and Magistrate court over alleged cybercrime and defamation of the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Aare Afe Babalola.

Farotimi had been remanded in Ekiti Correctional Centre and was granted bail in the sum of N30 million last week, but had not been able to perfect his Bail.

It would be recalled that Farotimi was initially remanded by the Federal High Court in Ado Ekiti for alleged Cybercrime and Defamation, but was also, granted Bail in the sum of N50 million.

Since tho legal face off with Babalola, the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, had stood behind Farotimi, lashing the Court for remanding the activist.

In a bid to resolve this legal tussle, the Afenifere had waded into the issue, likewise Labour Party, LP, Presidential Candidate at the 2023 Election, Peter Obi, and other prominent Nigerians.

Details Later…..

APC, PDP Trade Words Over Recent Deaths Caused By Stampede

Akinwale Kasali

December 24, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

The recent deaths recorded due to stampedes at palliatives distribution sites has led to the Trading of words between the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, and the opposition, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

The PDP had lamented the pathetic state of the economy under the watch of the APC, saying it has led to the numerous death recorded over palliatives distribution in Abuja, Oyo and Anambra State.

The PDP had bemoaned the sufferings, poverty and impoverishment meted on Nigerians by the APC which it said, resulted to the numerous deaths recorded, dubbing the APC a disappointment and a shame.

Reacting to this, APC spokesman, Felix Morka, in a statement, said Nigerians have not forgotten the ill-fated 2014 recruitment exercise into the Nigeria Immigration Service NIS which led to the death of some desperate job seekers.

He said at a time of national grief over stampedes in Oyo, Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory that resulted in the death of citizens, the PDP seized the moment to engage in callous political chicanery.

“Rather than genuinely commiserate with the victims and their families, the PDP chose to politicize the grief of the victims by blaming the stampedes on the All Progressives Congress APC-led administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The tragedies have brought together all well meaning Nigerians in mourning and sober reflection on how the incidents might have been avoided through better planning and organization by all involved. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victims and their families.

“It is grossly indecent, insensitive and despicable for the PDP to exploit these tragic incidents in a senseless attack against the administration that has devoted itself to fixing the ruins of nearly two decades of PDP administration.

“Nigerians have not forgotten the tragic stampede at the ill-fated Nigerian Immigration Service recruitment exercise in 2014 at the Abuja stadium, under the watch of the PDP administration, that left many desperate job seekers dead and scores injured. The PDP’s allegations only remind us of its sordid record of maladministration and utter incompetence”, Morka added.

Yoruba Youths Reject Sharia Law In South West

Akinwale Kasali

December 24, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

Yoruba Youths under the aegis of Yoruba Nation Youths, has condemned in strong terms, the plans to introduce Sharia law or establish Sharia courts in the South-West.

Reacting to the purported plans, the Group, in a statement by its leader (Diaspora) and Home-based Leader, Ayodele Ologunloluwa and Oyegunle Omotoyole, stated that the move will be rejected in its entirety.

The Group said they are prepared to defend their ancestral land against any form of destabilization, including attempts to impose Sharia law.

The rejection became necessary following reports that the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (Oyo State Chapter) has scheduled January 11, 2025, for the inauguration of a Sharia Court in Oyo town.

The event is set to take place at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje area, Agbogangan, Oyo.

However, reacting to the development, the youths described the proposal as “laughable” and vowed to mobilize resistance if the plan proceeds.

The statement reads: “We will resist any move to impose Sharia law or courts in Yorubaland.

“Yoruba culture and traditions are distinct, and any attempt to introduce alien laws will be met with fierce opposition.

“We warn the Federal Government not to create divisions in Yorubaland. Our focus is on Yoruba Nation self-determination, and we will not allow external influence to derail our struggle.

“Instead of a Yoruba man prostrating for a Hausa-Fulani, it is better to take courage and die.

“Sharia law is incompatible with our values, culture, and way of life. We will not allow any attempt to disrupt the peace of Yorubaland under the guise of religious imposition.”

“We reject any effort to entrench practices that undermine our faith, values, and identity. We will resist this agenda with all our might.

“No force on earth or in hell can stop the rise of a sovereign Yoruba state.”

NIMASA Bags Servicom Award

Tosin Olatokunbo

December 24, 2024

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) recently received the SERVICOM Award for excellent service delivery. This recognition highlights NIMASA’s commitment to enhancing service standards, improving transparency, and ensuring efficiency in its operations.

The SERVICOM Award, typically given to government agencies that demonstrate outstanding public service, acknowledges NIMASA’s strides in providing quality services to the maritime industry, including the facilitation of maritime safety, regulation, and the promotion of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Agency, who was represented by the Head, SERVICOM Unit of the Agency Hajia Rakiya Lamai, expressed gratitude to the Presidency through the SERVICOM Office for recognizing the Agency’s efforts. He assured that the Agency will not rest on its oars, but will instead double its efforts.

“We are spurred by this award, and we will continue to embrace best practices in the delivery of our services in the Agency. Let me also use this opportunity to appreciate our indefatigable staff who have consistently shown consistency to the core values of the Agency, while also internalizing the vision and mission of the Agency. We will continue to work together to sustain the tempo”, the DG representative said.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of SERVICOM, Mrs. Nnenna Akajemeli, commended the Agency in a letter for its unwavering interest and commitment to improving service delivery.

“We are indeed encouraged by your inspiring strive to ensure that Nigerians receive quality and timely service from the Nigerian State. We shall continue to count on your support and cooperation as a key stakeholder in the provision of satisfactory services to all citizens in the realization of the essence of governance”, Akajemeli said.

The award was presented at the annual end-of-year awards/meeting of the National Council of Nodal Officers with the SERVICOM Office, held in Abuja.

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA is the regulatory authority for Nigeria’s maritime industry, established by the NIMASA Act of 2007. Its key responsibilities include ensuring maritime safety, protecting the marine environment from pollution, enforcing compliance with maritime laws, promoting local shipping, and supporting the training of maritime professionals, amongst other responsibilities.

Uncle Joe, Reno: Between Fame and Infamy

The Source

December 24, 2024

By Valentine Obienyem

The likes of Mr. Joe Igbokwe are enthusiastically re-posting what Reno proudly shared as an “achievement” – being named the No. 23 most talked-about African on social media. Some of those named with him are not even aware. But before we applaud, we must ask: what truly qualifies one for such a title? What are the criteria for being named?

Who does not know that many of the most talked-about individuals include controversial figures such as Daisy Melanin, the Ghanaian woman infamous for her public scandal involving six men, or Baltasar Ebang Enogonga, the Equatorial Guinean internet sensation whose notoriety stems from nothing admirable? What about the legion of content creators who thrive on risqué tales and crude sensationalism? Being “talked about” is not inherently a virtue; often, infamy commands just as much – if not more – attention than merit. Indeed, this reminds me that even Bobrisky ranked No. 7 on that roster, where popularity is indistinguishably mixed with notoriety.

I say this because the list conflates genuine popularity with the disgusting notoriety that offends decency. Consider this absurdity: Mr. Peter Obi, who was once ranked No. 1, is listed as No. 9 this year, lumped together with characters like Bobrisky, Reno, Daisy, and Baltasar. This is why I urge the organisers to create two distinct categories: “The Most Popular Africans” and “The Most Notorious Africans.” It is disgraceful for figures like Peter Obi, Dangote, Ruto, Odunuga, and Okonjo-Iweala to be categorised alongside individuals whose conduct is a stain on society.

Joe Igbokwe, not content with merely sharing the list, went a step further, commending Reno for his so-called “deep thoughts,” as if such recognition requires an intellect like Uncle Joe’s to decipher. Is this not, perhaps, a classic case of “birds of a feather flocking together”?

It is worth noting that the award Reno celebrates did not describe him as “most popular” but rather as “most talked-about.” This distinction is significant. Is Reno among the most talked-about? The answer is a resounding yes—but the more pertinent question is, how and why? Today, Reno holds the dubious distinction of being Nigeria’s foremost master of chameleonic tendencies – a man whose shifting allegiances and moral elasticity have turned him into the subject of ridicule, an icon of inconsistency. If Plutarch were alive today to write parallel lives, it would be easy to pair Reno with Alcibiades!

How does one switch loyalties from person to person so effortlessly, leaving behind a trail of broken alliances, that their unsteady character becomes a butt of dinner jollity? Yet, amidst this chaos, Reno remains oblivious to the nature of his so-called “fame.” He fails to distinguish between notoriety and popularity. Instead, he inhabits a realm of notoriety – a place far removed from the dignity of genuine influence.

Take, for instance, Reno’s pattern of showering individuals with praise, only to later hurl scorn and obloquies upon them with the hatred aid enemies meet face to face in war. Consider what he once said about President Tinubu:

“Let us remember that Tinubu is a gangster, a known drug lord. He is vulnerable. He has his Achilles heel. And Tinubu’s sword of Damocles is the fear that he uses, like Satan, to control his kingdom.”

What do we call this behaviour? Opportunism? Betrayal? Or is it simply a lack of principle? Today, the same Reno, now Tinubu’s staunch defender, perhaps deserves a fitting Latin sobriquet: “Defensor Tinubenses” (Defender of Tinubu). And would you believe this? He eagerly anticipates an appointment from the very man he once vilified. This is why I describe him as a “characteres”—a person with no moral grounding. What Reno does on social media is the easiest task anyone without scruples can undertake.

Reflecting on my relationship with Mr. Peter Obi, if I were to announce publicly that I no longer support him, I have no doubt that the current administration would fall over itself to reward me with a prestigious appointment – perhaps as Secretary to the Government of the Federation or an equally esteemed post. But how could I, with a clear conscience, trade my principles for political gain and remain happy and at peace with myself? This is where I differ from characters like Reno. Whatever the game may be, even if it is”pankration” (a no-holds-barred ancient Greek contest), it must have rules.

I reject the notion that politics should strip men of their morals or turn them into nihilists – believing in nothing and anchored to nothing. As Gabriel Marcel rightly observed: “A man who depends on nothing and believes in nothing is a man without connection.” Principles are the bedrock of integrity. Without them, a man is adrift, like a leaf tossed about by every gust of opportunity. Epicurus captured this truth succinctly: “A man who has no firm beliefs is a leaf tossed by every wind.” Reno embodies this perfectly, though in the imagination of his admirers, he is celebrated as “smart.”

Ironically, when someone like Reno is hailed as the “most talked-about,” even on other planets, he mistakes the attention for honour. This reminds me of Anini, the infamous criminal of the 1980s, who dominated conversations – not because of virtue but because of vice. Reno’s celebration of this recognition, cheered on by his like-minded admirers, underscores a profound misunderstanding: notoriety, no matter how loud, can never equate to true popularity or respectability.

Obienyem, a Lawyer writes from Awka, Anambra State

Imo Set For Economic Expansion As Uzodimma Presents N755.6bn Budget

The Source

December 24, 2024

The economic opportunities awaiting Imo State in 2025 appear limitless as Governor Hope Uzodimma, on Monday, presented a budget estimate of seven hundred and fifty-five billion, five hundred and eighty-eight million, forty-one thousand, two hundred and twenty Naira only (N755, 588, 041, 220) to the State’s House of Assembly.

Tagged the ‘Budget of Expanded Economic Opportunities,’ the Governor was emphatic that the budget will present limitless economic opportunities as his government continues its deliberate policies on the realisation of the electricity project,

Orashi Energy Free Trade zone, boasting of tourism, enhanced agricultural investments and massive revitalisation of moribund industries, and of course, a continuation of road revolution.

Making the presentation at the Imo State House of Assembly Complex, New Owerri, the Governor said the budget’s title is “quite befitting and sits well with the credo of the 3R Government which is Shared Prosperity encapsulated in Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Recovery,” noting that his government has kept faith in the Mission Statement.

Of the total N755, 588, 041, 220 2025 budget estimate, a whopping Six Hundred and forty-three billion, three hundred and eighty-six million, forty- one thousand, two hundred and twenty (N643, 386, 041, 220) representing 85.1% was allocated as capital expenditure while one hundred and twelve billion, three hundred and two million, (N112, 302, 000, 000), representing 14.9% was mapped out as recurrent expenditure.

The Governor recalled how the State Government, by demonstrating a strong commitment to the initiative of NG-CARES by injecting over $2 million into the programme, and through strategic implementation, earned approximately $10 million from the first phase of the programme.

He said the government hopes to reinvest into a more robust Phase 2 (NG-CARES 2.0) Programme by 2025 for expanded economic benefits.

Reviewing the 2024 budget summary of N592.2billion, the Governor said that through prudent management despite tough economic and financial year, his government was able to do its best to faithfully implement the 2024 budget.

“So many laudable projects were achieved which include ongoing flyover at Assumpta roundabout, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre (EIICC), dualization of Owerri/Umuahia projects etc.”

The Governor noted that the 2024 was a successful year, given that it witnessed the rejigging of 3R administration in terms of introduction of technocrats among the crop of appointees manning the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

The Governor specifically highlighted achievements in the Ministry of Digital Economy, upgrade and renovation of the State Public Health in both the State and Federal Institutions, and provision of CAT2 Airfield Lighting system for the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport to enable night flights into and out of the Airport.

Other areas of achievements highlighted by the Governor in the 2024 budget are in the health sector, Imo State Public Service, Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Power sector, education, Petroleum, Oil and Gas. Others include Water Resources, Trade, Commerce and Investment, Digital Economy, Justice, Lands, Survey and Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Renewal, Industry Mines and Solid Mineral, justice, agriculture and livestock, works and infrastructure, loan repayment, information and strategy, environment and sanitation and security and vigilante affairs.

He informed that in the 2025 budget, all the jobs started in the sectors above will be completed and expanded to enable Imo people reap the full dividends of democracy.

Particular attention will be paid in 2025 in actualizing the proposed Hope Uzodimma Exclusive Estate at Avu, the former zoo land as well as other Estates and layouts that will be receiving urgent attention.

Furthermore, the Governor promised to invest more in the protection and cleanliness of our environment at Onitsha road Industrial Layouts, New Naze Industrial Layout as well as Orlu and Okigwe Industrial Clusters, all of which he said, shall receive a facelift to attract investors.

Governor Uzodimma said huge investments, based on the 2025 budget estimate will be made in the area of works and infrastructure, agriculture, livestock development, transportation, power and electricity, Tourism and hospitality, health, environment and sanitation, education, housing, youths and Sports, among others.

He harped on the need to ensure food security in Imo State and consequently, agriculture and food security, and Livestock development will get N30 billion and N20 billion respectively, alongside “other minimum incentives to the Local Government Councils so that they can make the pursuit of food security a priority.”

The emphasis on Works and Infrastructure is based on the need to complete the ongoing World Class Control Post Flyover in 2025, the continuation of the dredging of Orashi to the Atlantic as well as Inter-connectivity roads going on across the three senatorial zones of the State, all geared towards smooth transportation of goods and people, and enhancement of security among others.

A major key achievement of the 3R Government as highlighted by the Governor is the loan repayment to the tone of Seventy Two Billion, Six Hundred Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty-Six Thousand, One Hundred and Ten naira, Eighty Nine Kobo (N72,600,766,110.89), being debt his government inherited in 2020 on assumption of office from the previous administrations.

To enhance better information dissemination in Imo State, the Governor promised strengthen the Information paraphernalia to deliver the right message to Imo Citizens at all times. “The Government owned agencies like IBC-TV, IBC-Radio and Imo Newspapers Limited publishers of the Nigerian Statesman, will be duly subverted to continue to deliver their quality services,” promising that the IBC will be completely digitalised “to meet with the demands of the 21st Century Broadcasting.”

The Governor had emphasised the essence of Environment and Sanitation, noting that the Government intended to restore the glory of the State Capital as the Cleanest city in the Federation, informing of the already procured PPP agreement “between the Government and the Eastern Waste Management Company to handle Waste Management, produce organic fertilizer, generate power under the State Waste to Wealth Programme.”

“This is aimed at creating jobs, increase IGR and save millions of naira that Government is spending on Waste Management.”

Governor Uzodimma thanked the Speaker and the Honourable Members for their unflinching support to his administration since their inauguration.

He said the relationship between the different aims of government is like the relationship between the “tongue and the mouth,” saying “none can do without the other and the two must conduct themselves carefully to coexist in harmony.”

He then charged the lawmakers to enact bills and motions that will make the lives of Imo people better. He acknowledge that so far, they have done well and urged them to keep it up.

He used the opportunity to reassure Imo people of his commitment to an accountable and transparent government and never to renege on his covenant to God to serve honestly and faithfully.

The Governor used the occasion to call on the sponsors of insecurity in Imo State to repent and turn a new leaf, saying they may not have any hiding place in future.

In his welcome address, the Speaker Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe commended the Governor for remaining true to the tenets of separation of power as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) by coming to present the 2025 budget.

He said the budget presentation before the Legislature is to ensure that the income and the expenditure of government are considered while giving a financial guide in the business of the year.

He eulogised the Governor and his administration for having achieved a lot in the first tenure and hoped that his second tenure will be better than the first tenure.

The Speaker highlighted various achievements which include the Imo State House of Assembly Complex, road rehabilitation and reconstruction, rehabilitation of health centres, upgrade of IMSUTH, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri and many others.

He made mention of the funds attractions from SFTAS, reconstruction of IICC, the new Control Post Flyover, road infrastructure and approval of N70,000 minimum wage for Imo workers, describing the achievements as enumerable.

He assured the Governor that the 10th House of Assembly which he leads will support Government’s Policies and Programmes targeted at alleviating poverty, economic restructuring and diversification as well as general social sector, reforms and development, and promised that they will “expeditiously pass the 2025 budget estimate led before the House.”

Members of the House who reacted to the budget presentation include Deputy Speaker, the Majority Leader, representatives of Onuimo, Oru East, Ngor Okpala, Owerri Municipal and Nkwerre State Constituencies.

They all attested to the dexterity and good consciences and focused administration of the Governor that has made Imo better, and promised to contribute their quota towards speedy passage of the budget to enable the Governor continue with his good works for Imo people.

Adamawa: Fintiri Carves Out New Emirates, Chiefdoms

Suleiman Anyalewechi

December 24, 2024

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State — Governor Ahmadu Fintiri

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, on Monday December 23, 2024, announced the creation of two Emirate Councils.

In a state-wide broadcast, the Governor also informed that five Chiefdoms have equally been established.

The Source reports that the announcement of the creation of the new traditional institutions is coming on the heels of speculations and apprehensions concerning the status of the Lamido of Adamawa in the state.

About three weeks ago, the social media was inundated with speculations that the State House of Assembly had enacted a legislation stripping the Lamido of Adamawa of his age long status as the permanent chairman of the Adamawa State Council of Traditional Rulers.

The rumour was thick enough to draw a response from the legislators who dismissed the news as not only fake, but misleading.

In a statement issued on Friday December 13, 2024, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon Musa Mahmud, noted that what was actually passed was a bill establishing three Zonal traditional Councils.

According to him, the Heads of the newly established Zonal Traditional Council will be reporting to the Lamido who will retain his position as the permanent Chairman of the State Traditional Ruler Council.

The two new Emirates as announced by the Governor are Fufore and Maiha.

While Maiha with headquarters in Maiha town is of third class status, that of Fugore, with its headquarters in Fufore, is of 2nd class status.

Similarly the newly created Chiefdoms include Hoba with headquarters in Hong, Madagali, to be headquartered in Gulak, and Miohika, with its headquarters in Michika.

Others are Gombi and Yungur with headquarters in Gombi and Dumne respectively.

All the new Chiefdoms according to Governor Fintiri are 2nd class in status.

The state Governor explained that part of the reason for the establishment of the new traditional institutions ,is for security enhancement.

The Source further reports that Adamawa is one of the states in the North East region ,being ravaged by insurgency ,particularly Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists for the past years.

He noted that although ,there have been remarkable improvement in the security situation in the state ,the creation of the traditional enclaves will make for more security supervision.

Particularly, Governor Fintiri expressed the optimism that the issue of farmers/ herders clashes will be mitigated if not completely eradicated.

The traditional institutions, he insisted, are better placed to assist security agencies in maintaining peace and order in the communities.

Osun House Of Assembly Jerks Up, Passes 2025 Budget

Ayodele Oni

December 23, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The Osun State 2025 budget is now N427,746,925,170 as passed on Monday by the State House of Assembly.

The Assembly increased the 2025 Appropriation Bill, from N390,028,277,740 as presented by Governor Ademola Adeleke to N427,746,925,170.

A statement issued on Monday by Olamide Tiamiyu, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, confirmed the passage of the budget after the presentation of a detailed report by Mr Olumide Fatunmise, Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation.

Commenting on the development, Speaker Adewale Egbedun commended the Finance and Appropriation Committee and the entire Assembly for dedication to a thorough review and swift passage of the bill.

Egbedun highlighted key sectors prioritised in the revised budget, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, tourism, and security.

He noted that the focus is to ensure the bill, once signed into law, delivers tangible benefits to Osun residents.

“The Osun State House of Assembly on Monday officially passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill of the state, amounting to N427,746,925,170 into law.

“The approval followed the presentation of a report by the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, led by its Chairman, Hon. Olumide Fatunmise.

“Governor Adeleke initially presented the budget proposal of N390,028,277,740 for the 2025 fiscal year to the Assembly on Wednesday, November 13.

“Breaking down the figures, the budget projected a total revenue of N390,028,277,740, comprising an opening balance of N30,001,125,120, recurrent revenue—including FAAC allocations—of N306,649,908,010, and capital receipts amounting to N53,377,244,610.

“The total expenditure mirrored the proposed revenue at N390,028,277,740. Recurrent expenditure was set at N245,797,093,940, covering personnel costs of N102,895,821,010 and other recurrent expenses totalling N142,901,272,930. Capital expenditure stood at N144,231,183,800.”

During his budget presentation, Adeleke underscored his administration’s progress in road infrastructure, revealing that 80 percent of existing gaps have been addressed, substantially reducing deficits.

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