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This year’s World Teacher’s Day offered stakeholders in the education sector in Nigeria an opportunity to reflect on the state of one of the most critical professions for the development of any society as well as proffer suggestions to address the challenges confronting this category of workers. Teacher’s Day is commemorated annually on October 5.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) seized the occasion to draw attention to the chronic deficit of teachers at the basic education level relative to the number of children at this foundational stage of learning.

The union attributed the severe shortage in the requisite number of teachers to deliver qualitative education, which it estimates at 194,876 personnel, to poor welfare, unattractive working conditions, weak motivation and low status.

Decrying what it described as the alarming crisis of manpower in primary and secondary schools nationwide, the NUT stressed the need to decisively tackle this problem as a necessary condition for ‘Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession’, which is the theme of the 2025 commemoration.

A consideration of the teacher-to-pupil ratio at the primary school level offers a graphic insight into the seriousness of the scarcity of qualified teachers at the basic level in Nigeria. While data for 2021 from the World Bank indicate that there were 30.4 million primary school pupils in the country, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) estimated that there were over 45 million children in primary schools as at 2023.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) estimates that there are at least 10.5 million children between the ages of five and 14 out of school, with the northern states being the worst affected in this regard.

To cater for an estimated population of 31.7 million primary school pupils, there are approximately 915,913 teachers bringing the primary school teacher-to- pupil ratio to about 1:35. However, the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recommends a ratio of 1:25 teachers to pupils at the primary school level for effective learning.

In reality, experts believe that many classrooms are overcrowded with actual ratios in significant numbers of areas going beyond 1:70 teacher-pupil proportions. It is thus obvious, for instance, that without considerably increasing the number of qualified teachers, it will be impossible to address the conundrum of out-of-school children which is a critical impediment to literacy levels in Nigeria.

It has become imperative for decisive steps to be taken to make teaching more attractive as a profession through competitive and fulfilling salary structures, as well as complementary supportive welfare packages.

This is particularly important in order to motivate the best brains to teach at the basic level where it is necessary to lay a firm, qualitative foundation for young minds to be built on at higher stages of the education hierarchy.

The immediate past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari had in 2020 announced such initiatives as a special salary scale for teachers in basic and secondary schools, harmonised retirement age of 65 years and 49 years of service for teachers, reintroduction of bursary awards for students studying education in higher institutions and provision of loan facilities for agriculture, housing, cars, motorcycles, among others, to augment teachers’ income.

Unfortunately, most of these incentives have reportedly not been implemented, thus necessitating the urgent intervention of the current administrations at all levels to ensure their actualisation.

The near tripling of revenue earnings by the three tiers of government as a result of the economic reform policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration should be utilised to decisively improve the welfare and motivation of teachers, enhance the quality of manpower, bridge the deficit of personnel at the basic level of the country’s educational system and frontally tackle the challenge of out-of-school children.

We also urge the education authorities to heed the plea by the NUT for a reversal of the decision to remove the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) from benefitting from budgetary allocation. The TRCN is critical to the quality and performance of the teaching profession.

When disasters strike-whether floods, wars, epidemics, or accidents-the damage often goes beyond what we can see. Beyond broken homes and disrupted livelihoods lie broken hearts, silent grief, and unseen trauma. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, the World Health Organization reported a 25% global rise in anxiety and depression in just one year. This shows that when crises happen, mental health suffers deeply too.

Yet, the emotional toll of emergencies often goes unnoticed. These events tear families apart, heighten fear, and shake people’s sense of safety and stability. That is why this year’s World Mental Health Day theme, ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,’ could not have come at a better time. It reminds us that mental health support is not something we wait for calm times to provide; it is a necessity even in chaos.

However, access to mental health care remains a privilege for many, especially in developing nations. Take Nigeria, for instance. With a population of over 200 million people, there are fewer than 1,000 mental health professionals in the entire country. This means millions are left without help, and during emergencies, the gap widens even more.

In times of crisis, already fragile health systems struggle to cope. Clinics close, health workers are displaced, and people who urgently need psychological support are often left to face their pain alone. Meanwhile, humanitarian responses, though well-intentioned, are frequently uncoordinated, and many responders lack the training to provide emotional or psychological first aid. As a result, countless individuals remain unsupported during their most vulnerable moments.

At Mental Drive Africa (MDA), we have seen this reality up close. Through our school programs, community outreaches, and wellness initiatives, we have learned that access begins with integration. Mental health must be treated as a vital part of overall health and emergency response, not as an afterthought. When mental health care is included within primary healthcare systems, people can seek help in the same places they receive physical care-without shame or delay.

In addition, community-based care is key. When disasters happen, it is the community that responds first. By training local health workers, teachers, and volunteers in basic psychological first aid, we make help more immediate, trusted, and accessible. Community-led initiatives, like MDA’s Exhale Community, show how peer support and safe conversations can help people heal, grow, and regain resilience even in the toughest times.

Moreover, investing in capacity building remains one of the most sustainable ways to strengthen access. When frontline workers and everyday citizens are equipped to recognize signs of distress and offer support, the ripple effect is powerful. Healing becomes a shared responsibility, and communities are empowered to help themselves.

Preparedness also plays a critical role. Including mental health in emergency response plans ensures no one is left behind. This could mean setting up mobile clinics, ensuring access to medication, creating emergency helplines, or embedding mental health professionals within rapid response teams. These measures help communities recover not just physically, but emotionally too.

Of course, no sustainable change can happen without strong policies and proper funding. Unfortunately, mental health often receives less than 2% of health budgets in many countries, leaving services underfunded and out of reach. Governments, organizations, and donors must begin to treat mental health with the same urgency as physical health. Investing in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation saves lives and strengthens the overall resilience of societies.

And now, more than ever, technology is helping bridge the gap. Digital tools like teletherapy, mobile apps, and online counseling platforms have made it possible for people to receive help even in areas where stigma, distance, or limited professionals once stood in the way. When combined with community outreach, these innovations create safe and flexible ways for people to seek support wherever they are.

As the world marks World Mental Health Day, we at Mental Drive Africa echo the global call for stronger access to mental health care, especially in times of crisis. Every person deserves a chance to heal, to be heard, and to find hope again-no matter what storms they face.

Through our ongoing programs, from mental health education in schools to market outreaches and community-based therapy support, we are committed to bringing wellness closer to the people who need it most. But we cannot do it alone. We call on governments, organizations, and individuals to join hands in building systems that prioritize mental well-being in every emergency response.

Because mental health is not a privilege.

It is a right-for everyone, everywhere, and even in the most catastrophic times.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted presidential pardon to 175 persons, including Nigeria’s foremost nationalist, Herbert Macaulay, and one-time Federal Capital Territory Minister, the late Maj.-Gen. Mamman Vatsa (rtd).

Ogoni leaders, including the slain playwright Ken Saro-Wiwa, were also pardoned.

The decision followed the approval of the Council of State at its meeting in Abuja yesterday.

The move, initiated by the President on the recommendation of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM), was presented by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).

The Council ratified the appointment of Dr Aminu Yusuf as Chairman National Population Commission (NPC). It also approved the conferment of national honours on 959 Nigerians and friends of the country.

Maj.-Gen. Vatsa, sentenced to death in 1986 for treason, received a posthumous pardon, while Macaulay, founder of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), was pardoned posthumously for his 1913 conviction by British colonial authorities.

Also pardoned were a former member of the House of Representatives, Farouk Lawan, convicted of bribery collection; Mrs Anastasia Nwaobia, a lawyer; Hussaini Umar and Ayinla Alanamu.

Also listed were Nweke Chibueze, serving a life term for cocaine possession, and Dr Nwogu Peters, who had served 12 out of a 17-year sentence for fraud.

The Ogoni Nine – Ken Saro-Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine – were also pardoned.

The Ogoni Four-Chief Albert Badey, Chief Edward Kobani, Chief Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage – received national honours.

President Tinubu granted clemency to 82 inmates, reduced the prison terms of 65 others, and commuted seven death sentences to life imprisonment.

The PACPM , chaired by the Attorney-General, has Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi(SAN); Prof. Alkasum Abba; Prof. (Mrs.) Nike Y. Sidikat Ijaiya; Justice Augustine B. Utsaha; and Dr Onwusoro Maduka (Secretary) as members.

It also has representatives of the Police, Nigerian Correctional Service, National Human Rights Commission, NSCIA, and CAN.

According to the committee’s report, 175 inmates were interviewed and 62 applications were received on behalf of 119 others, bringing the total to 294 cases considered.

Of these, 82 were recommended for clemency, two for pardon, 65 for sentence reduction, and seven death sentences for commutation.

Fifteen ex-convicts were also recommended for presidential pardon – 11 of them posthumously, including the Ogoni Nine.

The committee said it considered factors such as old age (60 years and above), terminal illness, youth (16 years and below), long-term incarceration with good conduct, remorse, vocational skills training, and recommendations from correctional officers, including Nigerian prisoners deported from abroad.

The PACPM was inaugurated on January 15, 2025, by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to promote justice, rehabilitation, and human rights.

Briefing reporters after the Council of State and Police Council meetings, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani said the approvals underscored President Tinubu’s commitment to justice reform and humane governance.

According to him, the gesture aims to decongest correctional facilities and promote restorative justice, in line with Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the President to grant pardons, reprieves, or commute sentences.

Alhaji Tonge Bularafa was approved as Federal Commissioner representing Yobe State at the NPC.

Gates, Yakubu, Amuka-Pemu, 956 get national honours

In another major decision, the Council approved President Tinubu’s proposal to confer national honours on 959 eminent individuals for the 2024-2025 cycle.

Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs Office, Dr Emanso Umobong, said the awards included 824 successful applications and 135 special recognitions.

She explained that the reconstituted National Honours Award Committee, chaired by the Emir of Lafia, Justice Mohammed Bage, screened over 5,000 applications before submitting its final recommendations.

Among those to be honoured are philanthropist Bill Gates, veteran journalist and publisher Sam Amuka-Pemu, and immediate past INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

Super Falcons and D’Tigresses received recognition for excellence in sports.

Police Council approves funding proposals

Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam, stated that the Police Council approved proposals to strengthen the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF), including the repeal and re-enactment of its Establishment Act 2025 to remove the six-year sunset clause and render it a permanent agency.

He proposed raising the statutory deduction from the Federation Account from 0.5 per cent to two per cent to expand funding for police training, welfare, logistics, and technology.

The Council, however, approved an increment of one per cent.

‘All our prayers were approved without omission,’ the minister said, noting that the Attorney-General has been directed to incorporate the approvals into a proposed Executive Bill.

Nickelodeon viewers are ready for endless fun, adventure and excitement in a series of shows billed for October.

Already, family time just got better with the Halloween season as Nickelodeon is bringing all the fun with fan favourites making a return and brand-new adventures to keep the whole family laughing and excited.

From spooky specials to classic characters, viewers are to get ready for favourite shows.

Under the Nickelodeon Global is the Wylde Pak (New Series), where half-siblings Jack and Lily adjust to living together while helping at their family’s pet business.

Viewers will also be able to watch new episodes on weekdays till Friday, October 24, 2025.

SpongeBob SquarePants returns to bring even more laughter and fun to your family time from October 13, 2025 to October 24, 2025.

The Haha Halloween special will include the premiere of The Patrick Star Show, from October 27, 2025 to October 31, 2025.

On NickJr., Tim Rex in Space returns with T-Rex Tim, his big brother Tommy, little sister Tia and Triceratops bestie Kai tackle kid-shaped problems with dinosized solutions in space.

Also to rock the October specials include Rubble and Crew, Trick or treat!, Dora, Blaze and the Monster Machines, and The Tiny Chef Show.

NickToons will air The Patrick Star Show, SpongeBob SquarePants, and SONIC Prime which returns by popular demand.

The certificates’ (degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificates forgery allegation against the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has again exposed the systemic dysfunction that bedevils the country. The former minister had allegedly claimed that he earned a B.Sc. in Microbiology/Biochemistry from Nigeria’s premier indigenous university, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in July 1985. He had equally claimed to have taken part in the one-year NYSC and had attached certificates which an online newspaper, Premium Times, alleges are forged.

Premium Times claims their lead came from a whistle blower about two years ago. Their investigations show correspondences from both the vice chancellor of the university, Prof. U.S Ortuanya, and registrar, Dr Ngozi Nnebedu, claiming that the former minister was never awarded a degree certificate because he did not fulfill the academic requirements as required by the university.

The NYSC management equally disclaimed the certificate he had submitted to the Directorate of Security Services (DSS), the National Assembly and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It was equally observed that the signature on the NYSC discharge certificate was not signed by the right Director-General of the NYSC in 1985.

We are appalled at the cocktail of scandals trailing the alleged forgeries by the ex-minister. Universities, especially reputable ones like the UNN should not be involved in the type of double-speak that has unravelled in this instance.

About two years ago too, another online newspaper was alleged to have reported a contrary information about the authenticity of the ex-minister’s certificate.

The issue is not whether Mr. Nnaji attended the university. The records show he was admitted, enrolled but did not graduate with his mates.

Contradictorily, there is allegedly a letter circulating which he had written to the university years later to be allowed to retake the exam but what is not clear is what he did afterwards. The fact is that the university had written that they never issued Mr. Nnaji a certificate.

He has resigned his appointment in what he claimed was his decision to ‘step aside as a personal choice not an admission of guilt but rather, a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court’.

It is instructive that he had attempted to legally stop the university from giving information about his records.

We are shocked that the messy scandal is being dubbed ‘a political witch-hunt’ and the ex-minister had his supposed media aides trying to defend their principal in what often appeared very laughable and puerile style of feigning ignorance of issues under review.

Two questions are on the lips of every educated observer, ‘Was Mr. Nnaji awarded a degree from the UNN? How did he acquire an NYSC (even with the wrong signatory) discharge certificate with alleged conflicting dates of failed course retake dates and resumption of service year?

The whole messy scandal points a torch to what is wrong with institutions in the country. We would have thought that the sad Salisu Buhari University of Toronto and age falsification scandals of 1999 would have made Nigerians, especially the political class and security agencies more thorough and painstaking in their investigations.

Mr. Nnaji, if found guilty of the allegations would be seen as lacking in integrity. Public service is not for saints but like Caesar’s wife, they are expected to be above reproach.

To have presented certificates he knew to be tainted for clearance as a ministerial nominee, if true, raises questions of character.

The security agencies that are paid with tax payers’ money have over the years often done very shoddy jobs of investigating political nominees. The case of Kemi Adeosun, a former Minister of Finance comes to the fore as her NYSC exemption certificate was found to be fake. She resigned.

Today, a former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology is embroiled in multiple scandals. The Nigerian Senate that prides itself on screening of nominees has again been exposed as either unpatriotic ircincompetent ‘screeners’, or both.

More often than not, the screening processes are shoddily and childishly handled. In fact, many nominees are often bantered with and jokingly advised to, ‘bow and go’ for the most ridiculous reasons. Today the scandal is like palm oil on one finger that soils the rest.

If proven, Mr Nnaji runs the risk of perjury and forgery charges.

Aremu Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-soldier, ex-military Head of State, ex-President, letterman, the most popular Baba Iyabo in this universe and public speaker, is one of the luckiest human beings on earth. Born of a very humbling background, his decision to join the Army changed his story. Opportunities just usually find a way to perch at his doors. If in doubt of my assertion, consider his role in the civil war, his ascension to the seat of Head of State, and his return to power after years in prison where the late General Sani Abacha dumped him. Even when it is not his will, he has gotten power without breaking much sweat.

Each time I listen to this erudite former President talk about leadership, I am always marveled. He comes across as an activist, a fire-spitting one for that matter. Femi Falana and others seem like his colleagues. But, I have repeatedly told myself: Wait a minute, this man is no activist. He is part of what he is complaining about.

From Nigeria to Europe to America and Asia, anytime he is given the opportunity to talk, he talks as though he is not an African leader who has contributed immensely to the challenges of the continent; he talks like a Messiah who is waiting for the opportunity to change the world; and he talks like an analyst with the best of intentions. But he is not. We all know he is not. Except we want to deceive ourselves.

A few years ago, I saw a video of his in a church and he was complaining about the leadership the country has had. He spoke about security challenges and his fears that churches might soon become dangerous to attend because kidnappers could just walk in and abduct congregants. He sounded convincing like an average activist.

The truth is: He is not far from the truth, but my problem is that he talks as though he is not part of the problem. He keeps hammering on his era as though we didn’t witness it.

He ruled us for some years as military Head of State after General Murtala Mohammed was killed, and he came back as civilian president in 1999. After his first term in 2003, he secured a second term and led us till 2007 before foisting ailing Umaru Musa Yar’Adua on us. He only chose Yar’Adua because his attempt to amend the constitution and seek a third term failed. Spectacularly. At every given opportunity, he denies this fact, whose witnesses are in tens and have repeatedly spoken about it and some, including Condeleza Rice, have included in their memoirs. He can deny it from now till tomorrow, but we are no fools. Those who played one role or the other in it are still here.

As President, Obasanjo carried out a privatisation programme. The idea was for government-owned businesses to be sold to the private sector so that they would be well-run. We are all witnesses to how bad that turned out. He also invested chunk of money on the power sector and, till today, we are in need of light to determine where the funds went.

Under his watch, the education sector didn’t witness any major turnaround. Under his watch, the health sector didn’t get the lift it deserved. Under his watch, housing was not improved significantly. Under his watch, respect for the rule of law was near zero. He seized the funds meant for local governments in Lagos and ignored the law. Under his watch, the National Assembly was unstable because he kept getting the leaders impeached because of his disagreement with them.

Under his watch, fewer roads got the attention they deserved. Under his watch, we crawled when we were supposed to be running a marathon.

Becaue of the way he is always talking down every other leader who has led the country, the tendency of seeing activism and noisemaking as the same is high. But, we must remember that because of Baba Iyabo, rich individuals and state governors ‘donated’ billions for the construction of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library. The library is complete with a standard hotel and other money-spinning facilities, including a cinema. As I write, it is also his home having left the sprawling mansion he retired to after his tenure.

At the height of their quarrel, former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose asked him to return Ekiti’s donation to the library. For me, there is no justification for him as a sitting president to raise money the way he did for a private project. For want of a better word, it is gross abuse of office. Yet, he speaks against this when others do it. He is unable to remove the speck in his eyes, but he is seeing the one in others. What a wonderful man!

Because of Baba Iyabo, the new Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, was illegally impeached as Oyo governor. It was brazen; he acted like God. I am waiting for the day he will meet Ladoja and see if he will not prostrate to the Oba as an Omoluabi!

We must remember that because of Baba Iyabo, Nigeria is still crawling when it should be running. He cannot divorce himself from the leadership problem Nigeria has. As a matter of fact, he is an integral part of it. So, he should spare us the pontificating about our leadership deficiency. He is part and parcel of why we don’t have electricity, good roads, good schools, standard hospitals and many other good things of life.

I must add that this intervention does not imply that Obasanjo is a failure or has nothing to show for his years in office. It is just to say he is not a saint and he should stop dressing as one.

My final take: Can Baba Iyabo do us a favour and keep shut about his attempt for a third term? We have heard his denials, including his claim that he would have gotten it if he had wanted, but the truth is: even if he shouts it from Mount Everest, we will not believe him.

The media aide to former Benue state governor, Senator Gabriel Suswam, Bede Bartholomew, has debunked rumours circulating on social media that his principal has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.

In a statement made available to The Nation on Friday, Bartholomew dismissed the reports as false and misleading, insisting that Senator Suswam remains committed to his current political alignment.

He, however, confirmed that Governor Hyacinth Alia had, two days earlier, invited Senator Suswam and other stakeholders to a state banquet at the Government House, Makurdi.

‘Moments ago, I received calls from well-meaning Benuelites and leaders alerting me to trending news on Benue social media platforms claiming that the former governor, His Excellency Senator Gabriel Torwua Suswam, is set to defect to the APC today and would be received by Governor Hyacinth Alia this evening at the Banquet Hall,’ the statement read.

‘I debunk this unholy rumour with all vehemence as it does not represent the current interests of Senator Gabriel Suswam or those of his supporters across the state. It should be treated as nothing but baseless rumour.’

Bartholomew clarified that the governor’s invitation to Suswam was purely for a state event and not a political or defection ceremony.

‘As a former governor, Senator Suswam remains a stakeholder in the Benue project, hence his acceptance of the governor’s invitation. There was no indication that the event was political in nature,’ he added.

He urged supporters and well-wishers to disregard the speculation, describing it as ‘a lie from the deepest pit of hell,’ while appreciating those who reached out to confirm the truth.

Senator Suswam, according to the statement, extended his gratitude to his supporters and wished them a pleasant weekend.

President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ITTF Africa), Wahid Enitan Oshodi, has expressed high expectations for this year’s ITTF-Africa Championships, citing the impressive form and quality of players set to compete.

Oshodi commended the Tunisian Table Tennis Federation (FTTT) for stepping in to host the tournament following Rwanda’s late withdrawal, praising their dedication to the sport and their experience in organizing top-tier events.

He also expressed excitement over the strong presence of young talent at the tournament, which will take place in Tunis between October 12 and 19. The event serves as a qualifying competition for the 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships in London.

‘There’s no doubt this year’s tournament will be fiercely contested, especially given the current form of our players and the emergence of talented youth athletes,’ Oshodi said. ‘We’re particularly thrilled that many junior players who featured at the recent Youth Tournaments in Lagos have earned spots on their national teams for Tunis. This shows they’re maturing and ready to challenge the veterans. This will give us a chance to see the levels of improvement in their play over the last year. I expect upsets in Tunis and look forward to seeing some of these young stars rise to the top.’

He added: ‘We must also acknowledge the experience of our established players, which will make the tournament even more exciting. The atmosphere in Tunis will rival any global event. Tunisia is a seasoned host with a strong track record, and we’re eager for the tournament to kick off on October 12. The highlight for many teams will be the team event, which doubles as a qualifier for the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships in London.’

The 2026 edition will celebrate the centenary of the sport, returning to the city where both the International Table Tennis Federation and the first World Championships were founded in 1926.

This year’s continental showcase promises high-stakes action as Africa’s finest athletes compete across seven categories: men’s team, women’s team, men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. The Rades’ Multisports Hall will host eight thrilling days of elite competition.

Afrobeats singer Tiwa Savage has stated she feels underappreciated in the music industry despite her significant contributions.

In an interview on the Off Air Show, she stated that Nigerians and the industry don’t give her enough accolades, despite being one of the most-awarded female artists in Africa.

When asked if she felt she had received her flowers from the industry, Tiwa replied, ‘No. I’m sorry, I don’t’.

This sentiment comes after she praised colleagues, including Ayra Starr, Tems, and Diamond Platnumz, for their talents and contributions to the industry.

Fresh details have emerged on why the Inspector General of Police (IGP)’s team sealed the operational base and Ife Central office of the Amotekun Corps in Osun State following the violent killings in Akinlalu community, Ife North Local Government Area.

The Nation reports that Amotekun operatives allegedly invaded Akinlalu Market Square, killing three members of a family and another individual, while several others sustained gunshot injuries. Amotekun Commandant Isaac Omoyele later claimed he escaped an assassination attempt – a claim the police dismissed.

In response, the IGP’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) arrested 25 Amotekun officers on Wednesday night and sealed their operational base at Oke-Fia, Osogbo, as well as the Ife Central office.

Over the weekend, The Nation accompanied the IRT team led by SP Rotimi Ogunmuyiwa and the Deputy Commissioner of CID, Bayonle Suliaman, on an inspection of the Amotekun Headquarters at Powerline, Osogbo. Although Omoyele was absent, the Chairman of the Amotekun Board, Wale Abbas, received the team.

During the inspection, the team discovered that Amotekun had created several units, including Anti-Cultism, Narcotics, Kidnapping, and Homicide departments, and demanded that all unit heads report to the Osun State Police Command.

The IRT also uncovered five detention cells and underground holding areas used by Amotekun to keep suspects. The facilities were poorly maintained, and four detainees were found to have been held for over six weeks. One detainee claimed, ‘They are demanding ?150,000 bail for selling Indian hemp.’

The police team ordered that all detainees be handed over to the nearest divisional headquarters, stressing that it was unlawful to hold suspects for more than 24 hours.

Following the police action, Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, condemned the sealing of Amotekun offices, describing it as unconstitutional. He insisted that the outfit was established by law to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies.

Egbedun said, ‘It is deeply troubling that an agency created by law and funded by the state government could be summarily shut down without consultation. If any security breach occurs in Osun as a result, the Police Force will be held accountable.’

He further alleged that the move might have been politically motivated, linking it to Senator Francis Fadahunsi and former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

However, Senator Fadahunsi dismissed the Assembly’s claims, insisting that the Amotekun office had become ‘a home of murderers, not protectors of the community,’ and accused the outfit of disturbing the peace of the state.

According to him, ‘I am the Senator of Ife/Ijesa senatorial district, and this is not about the APC or PDP. From February to date, I’ve lost 12 people to Amotekun’s killing. I don’t know if Governor Oyetola is involved. He is the leader of the APC, but as for me, I was the one who invited the police, as I can’t continue to let them kill my people. During the crisis that occurred at the local government election, I lost four people. Many are still roaming about with bullets in their body. Nobody has been arrested.

‘There was another case of shooting in Esa-Oke caused by this careless Governor and the Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. After causing trouble for Ijesa South and Ijesa North, they now went to Ife to kill people in Akinlalu. Do they expect me to keep quiet as the Senator representing the district? I will not keep quiet. They would not kill a single goat in my area again. If they send them to go and destabilize my own Senatorial District, I will not allow it.’

Meanwhile, Osun Civil Societies Coalition demanded justice for the slain victims of Amotekun killings in the state, blaming the Police and Department of State Service (DSS) for failing to stop killings and brutality by the outfit.

The CSOs through its Chairman, Comrade Waheed Lawal in a statement on Friday demanded for immediate suspension of Amotekun operations in the state, prosecution of all those involved in the killings, in accordance with Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution, establishment of a Judicial Panel of Inquiry under the Tribunals of Inquiry Law, Cap 138, Laws of Osun State 2002 and adequate compensation for families of the deceased and victims of the attack.

However, Governor Ademola Adeleke, in a release by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, commended the IGP over the ongoing investigation of Amotekun killings in Akinlalu, calling for the observance of the rule of law in the process.

Amid the development, Akinlalu, through its spokesperson, Olamide Babarinde, raised an alarm that some aggrieved corps of Amotekun are still threatening to invade the community again if they continue to demand justice for slain residents.