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Parents of unity colleges to Education minister: present proof of admission racketeering

The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of Federal Unity Schools has challenged Education Minister Tunji Alausa to produce evidence backing his allegations that PTA officials were engaged in admission racketeering.

The association said the ‘sweeping allegation” should not be made without identifying the particular school, the officials, dates of alleged transactions, bank accounts, admission documents and beneficiaries connected with the N20 million mentioned by Alausa.

It also faulted the minister’s claim that parents paid between N100 million and N150 million in legal fees over the controversial concession of King’s College in Lagos.

The parents’ body said it was saddening that the Education Ministry had failed to acknowledge its financial and operational support to the unity schools across the country.

Alausa had while shedding light on the concession of the 117-year-old college to its old boys association(KCOBA), claimed that the PTA sought the N20 million from admission seekers. He did not state when, the period, the names and number of unity colleges where the racket took place.

But the minister insisted that the King’s College concession arrangement was designed to enable KCOBA to finance, rehabilitate, operate and maintain the school while the Federal Government retains regulatory, oversight power and 100 percent ownership of the college.

Alausa also dismissed allegations by the PTA that the government was mulling the sale of unity schools across the country.

Referring to the allegation of admission racketeering, the PTA asked: ‘When did PTA chairmen become admission officers of the Federal Ministry of Education?’

The PTA said in a statement jointly signed by its representatives, including King’s College PTA Chairman, Peter Oluwaseye, if any of its officials engaged in admission racketeering , such a person should be identified, investigated and prosecuted rather than casting aspersion on the wider PTA structure.

The association insisted that its opposition to the concession policy was not against development but what it described as inadequate transparency and stakeholder consultation.

On the N100 million to N150 million in legal fees alleged to have been paid in relation to the King’s College concession, the PTA asked Alausa to disclose the court, suit number, parties to the case and evidence of the payment.

‘If such payment was made, let the evidence be produced. If no such payment was made, then the allegation should be withdrawn,’ it said.

The PTA also rejected any suggestion that its members and workers protesting the concession were ‘rented protesters,’ insisting that parents have legitimate concerns about the future of their children and public education.

ýThe association argued that disagreement with government policy should not automatically be interpreted as sabotage.

ýThe controversy has already affected the wider Federal Unity School system, with workers’ unions protesting the concession and the government subsequently agreeing to a two-week suspension of its implementation and setting up a seven-member committee to review the arrangement.

ýThe PTA chairmen said their central demand is for transparency over the concession agreement, insisting that King’s College remained a national public institution regardless of its management arrangement.

They called on the government to publish the complete concession agreement, including its duration, financial commitments, performance indicators, termination provisions and safeguards for students, teachers and parents.

ýThe chairmen also questioned what the reported 35-year arrangement would transfer to the concessionaire and what responsibilities would remain directly with the Federal Government.

ýThe PTA said it was not opposed to KCOBA contributing financially to the development of the college.

ýRather, it argued that alumni contributions should not be interpreted as ownership of a public institution.

ýThe government had maintained that admission into King’s College would continue under Unity College policies, including national representation and the prescribed entry process.

An alumnus of King’s College and former Nigerian Bar Association(NBA) President Olumide Akpata, yesterday backed the concession of the institution.

Akpata said on a television programme that KCOBA indicated interest in running the college, which described as the old boys’ ‘mother’ to save it.

ý He said: ”We have not bought the school. The school has not been offered to us, and we are not interested in buying our school.

”KCOBA could not watch it deteriorate after decades of contributing to its development.

‘The expression Alma Mater is a Latin expression which literally translates to ‘nourishing mother.’ You must understand that that school is our mother, and no son will sit idly by and watch his mother deteriorate in such a dastardly manner.’

Akpata recalled that the old boys had spent billions of naira over the years renovating buildings, upgrading sports facilities, installing generators, establishing an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory and providing a library equipped for visually impaired students.

‘We have renovated every building standing in that school at one point in time or another. We have redone the sports pitch, put tartan tracks, put drainage under the football pitch. What have we not done?’ the former NBA president said.

Akpata explained that the old boys initially played a complementary role in the school’s development but decided to seek a formalised partnership because of the competing demands on government.

‘ We went to government, we said, ‘We know you have a lot on your plate. We are ready to help. We have been helping, and we have demonstrated capacity. Going forward, can we formalise this engagement?’

‘We are going to raise money to make sure that we upgrade infrastructure. We are going to raise money to make sure that the learning experience of our boys will be top-notch, world-class.’

On concerns over consultation with stakeholders, Akpata said the Federal Ministry had engaged unions during the process, adding that KCOB remained willing to meet teachers, parents and other stakeholders.

‘I don’t think the door has been shut on conversations and engagement. As we have said from time to time, we are ready to continue the conversation,’ he said.

Addressing allegations of admission racketeering and excessive levies at the school, Akpata said he had not personally witnessed such practices but acknowledged that he had heard the allegations.

‘I cannot put hand to heart and tell you that I have witnessed anything of the sort, but we have heard these stories so many times,’ he said.

Foreign investors buy Vietnam stocks ahead of FTSE market upgrade

HANOI – Foreign interest ?in Vietnamese ?stocks has picked up this week ahead of the country’s expected reclassification on Monday to secondary emerging market status by index provider FTSE Russell, a move expected to boost inflows.

FTSE previously estimated the upgrade could redirect as much as $6 billion into Vietnamese equities as funds tracking its indexes gradually adjust their portfolios.

The transition will be implemented in four stages through 2027. Brokerage SSI ?Research estimates passive funds tracking FTSE indexes will buy about $240 million worth of Vietnamese shares in the first tranche on Sept 18, before the index changes take effect.

Anticipation of the upgrade has helped revive foreign interest in Vietnamese equities, with overseas investors buying a net 1.42 trillion dong ($54.63 million) worth of shares so far this week, although they ?remain net sellers by over $3.6 billion this year.

FTSE identified 27 Vietnamese stocks in August eligible for its FTSE Global All Cap Index, including heavyweight names such as conglomerate Vingroup, technology firm FPT and steelmaker Hoa Phat Group.

SSI Research estimates the biggest first-round ETF inflows will target private bank VPBank, developer Vinhomes , FPT and Hoa Phat. Vingroup, however, could see net outflows of $28 million as selling by existing ETFs outweighs upgrade-related buying, the brokerage added.

“The FTSE upgrade is a signpost on the journey to greater awareness and involvement by foreign investors,” said Craig Martin, chairman ?of Dynam Capital, a Vietnam-focused equity fund. “The market remains relatively cheap and earnings growth is still strong,” he said.

Despite the ?optimism over the upgrade, Vietnam’s benchmark VN-Index has risen only about 1.4% this year, lagging gains of roughly 24% in Thailand and 21% in Singapore, LSEG data showed. Last year, however, Vietnam was ?Southeast Asia’s best-performing stock market as investors positioned for the expected FTSE reclassification.

Some concerns remain, including foreign ownership limits and free-float constraints for some companies.

The milestone has also revived expectations of a future upgrade by MSCI. Investors say the introduction of a central counterparty clearing mechanism, expected as early ?as 2027, could help Vietnam move closer to meeting MSCI’s market-access requirements.

TRENDING: Soludo hails Peter Obi’s record in resurfaced video

An old video of Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo speaking about the record of his predecessor, Peter Obi, has resurfaced online, drawing fresh attention amid the renewed political debate surrounding the two politicians.

The footage, which was recorded during the 2021 Anambra governorship campaign, shows Soludo, then the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), discussing Obi’s administration and citing economic and infrastructure-related data.

In the video, Soludo said Obi ‘did relatively well as an APGA governor’ and specifically mentioned road construction during his tenure.

He also referred to poverty and unemployment figures in the state, saying, ‘Anambra State had poverty rate decline from 53% to 14.8% under Peter Obi. Anambra State had the lowest unemployment in Nigeria at 13%.’

The clip has resurfaced amid renewed online discussions about Obi’s record as governor and Soludo’s subsequent public comments about his predecessor.

The figures and their attribution have, however, been the subject of competing interpretations. In a subsequent explanation reported in 2022, Soludo said he had been citing National Bureau of Statistics data and that poverty in Anambra had risen from below 25 per cent in 2005 to about 53 per cent in 2010/2011, before falling to 14.78 per cent in 2020 under Willie Obiano.

Soludo also later criticised some aspects of Obi’s administration, including his assessment of investments allegedly left behind by his predecessor. In a November 2022 interview, he said the purported investments were ‘worth next to nothing’.

The resurfaced video has nevertheless generated renewed reactions online, with supporters of Obi drawing attention to Soludo’s earlier comments, while others have pointed to the broader context in which the figures were presented.

The development comes as political discussions around Obi, Soludo and the record of successive administrations in Anambra continue to attract attention ahead of the 2027 political cycle.

Alaafin’s 420-year-old palace tortoise dies

The ancient town of Oyo is mourning the loss of its oldest and most famous animal resident.

‘Baba’, a giant tortoise, who lived for 420 years inside the royal palace, died on Monday after falling ill.

Known across the region as the oldest living animal in Yorubaland, ‘Baba’ was a central figure in the palace of the Alaafin, the paramount ruler of Oyo Kingdom.

His long life made him a living bridge to the past, connecting generations of Yoruba culture and history.

It was gathered that, for centuries, ‘Baba’ was cared for by a line of kings, who passed down the responsibility of taking care of him. Royal caretakers served him his favourite food, including watermelon, leafy grass and corn pap wrapped in leaves.

Two dedicated palace officials were assigned full-time to monitor his health and daily routine.

‘In Oyo, ‘Baba’ was regarded as the oldest indigene,’ said Bode Durojaiye, Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin.

He added: ‘It was the Alaafin’s most besotted pet. The incumbent paramount ruler met it in the palace, as ‘Baba’ was nourished by a succession of kings, who inherited him as part of the relics of their ancestors.

‘Over the decades, thousands of tourists and local visitors travelled to the ancient palace specifically to see ‘Baba’. His impressive size, friendly personality and unbelievable age made him a major attraction. People were so fond of his fatherly age that no one used a regular name for him; they simply called him ‘Baba’, which means father in Yoruba language.

‘Unlike the belief in Yoruba land that royal animals were expected to die alongside their kings during rituals, ‘Baba’ survived many monarchs. He remained a peaceful constant through changing centuries, outlasting kings and carrying the stories of the old empire into the modern era.’

He said ‘Baba’ suffered a short illness on Monday, stopped eating, and passed away quietly later that day and had since been buried within the palace ground.

‘His passing on marks the end of a unique era for the kingdom and leaves a quiet void in the heart of the palace. ‘Baba’ was more than a turtle in status. He represented a part of the oral history of the Yoruba race. Now, the Alaafin has lost an ageless companion.

‘Even though ‘Baba’ is gone, his legacy remains alive in the town’s history. His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Owoade, plans to preserve the memory of the beloved tortoise so that future generations can continue to learn about his story for another century,’ Durojaiye said.

’It’s not easy being a woman in entertainment space’ – Skales

Afrobeats singer Skales has commended his female colleagues in the entertainment industry, saying it is not easy to thrive as a woman in the Nigerian music scene.

The ‘Shake Body’ crooner gave the remarks on his X handle, amid a viral podcast interview where singer Fave spoke about the challenges faced by female artistes.

‘Big up all the females in the entertainment industry… it ain’t easy being a woman in this industry… big up to y’all for real,’ Skales wrote.

His post came after Fave, on the Afropolitan podcast, claimed that female artistes face more hurdles because they are judged not only by their talent but also by their sex appeal.

Fave also claimed that she, alongside Tems and Ayra Starr, changed the narrative for women in Afrobeats.

‘When Tems, I and Ayra Starr came into the scene, we came with different voices that were different from the very feminine voice people were used to. Before us, female artistes used to sing in a very feminine way,’ she said.

Enter AbdulRazaq, new Sardauna of Ilorin

He entered the ancient palace calmly, with his characteristic simplicity and humility that betrayed his background as the scion of an aristocratic family, successful businessman and governor.

He appeared in a modest dress code, doing away with crude pomposity and vulgarian lifestyle. A man of excellent gait and commanding presence, he accepted the offer of a war chieftaincy title with gratitude and responsibility.

However, there is no tribal war to fight in the emirate again. As the modern defender of the heterogeneous community, what is left is the infrastructure battle, which Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is fighting, and the challenge of setting the pace for the continuous march of civilisation.

Ilorin was aglow with festivities. The weather was benevolent.The ancient town, and indeed, the state, contrary to reports about political division, was united behind the governor during the three events marking his over seven years of diligent service to the people.

The first was the inaugurationof people-oriented projects. The second was the turbaning of the governor as the Sardauna of Ilorin. The third was the carnival-like reception in his honour. It was like a durbar; a blend of culture and religion.

On display was the rich cultural heritage of the ancient town that has now come to terms with modernity. Itinerant drummers and singing train of women, acrobats on land and men on neatly decorated horses trilled the dignitaries who converged on the palace of the Emir, Alhaji Kolapo Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, retired justice-son of Zulkarnaini Muhammadu Gambari Owonikoko, the legendary unifier of the emirate.

Emir Sulu-Gambari, Chairman of Kwara State Council of Chiefs, explained that the prestigious traditional title was conferred on the governor in recognition of his leadership, public service, and investments in the culture and development of the Ilorin Emirate.

Accompanied by the movers and shakers of the society – top party leaders, governors, ministers, National Assembly members, captains of industry and government officials – AbdulRazaq was respledent in his brown costume, with red cap to match, as he walked elegantly, acknowledging cheers from the natives.

He got a staff of war, as it were, as the insignia of his title, apart from traditional weaving of ‘lawani.’ Since tribal war is over, Sardauna Ilorin said he would team up with the Emirate Council to sustain the peace. ‘The title is now a symbolic thing,’ he told reporters.

The title of Sardauna became popular since the great leader, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Premier of Northern Region, was installed by Sultan Sodiq Abubakar of Sokoto. In terms of kinship, there is a link between Ilorin and Sokoto, the household of Alimi having descended from the Caliphate.

Joy was bold on the faces of the multitude in their customised Ankara fabrics, dancing to the peculiar songs and talking drums. According to observers, the public mood underscored the fact that there is no gap or gulf between the government and the people, and that the blood of the indigenes runs in the veins of the administration.

AbdulRazaq came across as a crowd puller; a diligent servant of the people reputed for uncanny humility and excellence. Women chanted the cognomen of his illustrious father, the legendary Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Folorunso AbdulRasaq, first lawyer produced by the entire Northern Region, Legal Adviser of the proscribed Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) and former Federal Minister of State for Transport, who never soiled his name and honour.

There is an AbdulRazaq factor in national peace and stability. As the chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), the Kwara governor has been a partner in progress with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. There is cordial inter-governmental relations between the Federal Government and the sub-national units in an atmosphere of cooperative federalism.

The president hailed the Emir for bestowing the prestigious title on the governor, who also serves as President of the Forum of Regions of Africa.

He described the honour as a fitting recognition of the AbdulRazaq’s leadership, public service and contributions to the development of Kwara State, particularly his efforts in promoting inclusive growth, social cohesion and the well-being of the people.

President Tinubu also applauded the Emir for preserving the important role of traditional institutions in fostering harmony and supporting democratic governance and sustainable development.

He said in a statement by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, that the new honour done to the governor should motivate him to better serve humanity.

‘Governor AbdulRazaq, I urge you to embrace the culturally significant and historic title not only as a mark of honour, but also as a call to greater service and responsibility.

‘I am confident that you will bring your experience, leadership, statesmanship and goodwill to bear in advancing the interests of the people of Kwara State and contributing to the progress and unity of Nigeria.

‘I wish you continued success, wisdom, strength and good health as you assume the responsibilities of the Sardauna of Ilorin. May this honour further inspire you to serve your people and our nation,’ he added.

After inaugurating the legacy projects which confirmed the performance of AbdulRazaq, a silent worker who had served meritorously without making any noise, dignitaries said they had one or two virtues to learn from the amiable style of a consummate politician and successful governor, who has transformed Kwara due to his revolution in education, health and workers’ welfare.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who opened the projects, hailed the governor for his focus, resilience and commitment to the welfare of Kwarans.

The vice president, who represented President Tinubu, who is currently outside the country, was joined at the inauguration by Governors Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Nasir Idris (Kebbi) and Senator Shehu Sani (Kaduna).

Also at the turbaning were Govenors Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti State), Umar Bago (Niger), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum Hope Uzodimma (Imo) and Dikko Radda (Katsina).

Other dignitaries include the Attorney-Gneral of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Lateef Fagbemi,l (SAN), Minister of Industry, Trade and Invesment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Emir of Zauzau Emirate, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, and the Chairman of Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji.

Also there was the Chairman of BUA Group, Alhaji Samad Rabiu. Deputy Governors of Oyo, Jigawa, Sokoto, Borno, Zamfara, Anambra, Ondo, Kano, Nassarawa and Katsina states, as well as Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Afolabi Olaoye also joined the guests at the Emir’s Palace, the venue of the coronation.

One of the projects was the Kwara Garment Factory, a signature project of the administration that will hire at least 4,000 people at full capacity. The factory is one of the biggest and technologically advanced in West Africa.

Another was the state-of-the-art multi-storey Revenue House for the staff members of Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS). The edifice will strengthen the state’s tax administration by centralising operations and improving efficiency.

‘He is a very humble public servant who speaks less and does far more for the people of the state,’ said Shettima, who urged him not to relent in doing good.

The vice president linked the past with the present, saying: ‘As Governor AbdulRazaq receives his turban, we remember those who preceded him and offer prayers for the generations who will encounter this occasion through the stories their elders preserve.’

He added: ‘My presence here today carries the affection of a friend. Governor AbdulRazaq and I have shared conversations and responsibilities beyond ceremonial occasions.

‘There is something sobering about celebrating a friend while both of you remain answerable to the demands of public office. Titles will eventually pass into the record of our lives. The human bonds formed along the way shall endure beyond the appointments through which other people came to know us.’

Shettima paid glowing tribute to the memory of the departed icon from the North, the patriarch of the AbdulRazaq family. He said the conferment of the Sardauna title on his son represented another chapter in the family’s relationship with the emirate.

‘His father, Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Folorunsho AbdulRazaq, SAN, OFR, carried an Ilorin name into history as Northern Nigeria’s first lawyer. Every path begins with someone willing to walk without familiar footprints. Through law and diplomacy, his story became part of Nigeria’s own.

‘The branch may reach towards another horizon, yet it carries within itself the memory of the root. His father was the first Mutawalle of Ilorin, a title that remains in the family in celebration of their bond with the Emirate. Today, another chapter enters the family’s relationship with this palace’, he added.

The Vice President said the continuity of the AbdulRazaq family’s legacy demonstrated that while a surname could be inherited at birth, the responsibilities associated with it had to be undertaken afresh by each generation.

Shettima, who wished AbdulRazaq continuous God’s guidance on the new task, also prayed to Allah to grant the Emir good health, long life and prosperity.

‘I extend the congratulations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the government and people of Nigeria to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, his family and Ilorin Emirate. May Allah grant you health, humility and strength for the responsibilities before you.

‘May Allah preserve our communities in peace, bless the children who will inherit them and grant our departed elders mercy. May this day bring joy to your household and renew in all of us the resolve to serve with conscience. May Allah grant our Emir good health, long life and prosperity.’

To observers, AbdulRazaq made history, following his installation as a chief of the palace. It is a civil-military title that also makes him an adviser to the emir.

It was also befitting atteststion to the AbdulRasaq factor in Kwara life and politics. He succeeded the late billionaire philanthropist, Alhaji Umar Saro, who passed away in 2021. He got the title, not because he is governor, but because he has lived up to expectation by serving his people with all his heart. He earned the title because of his loyalty and patriotism.

A man of honour and integrity, AbdulRazaq has served with the fear of Allah and avoided graft, sleaze and all forms of corruption like poison. Popular down to the grassroots, he appears to be the dominant issue in a state where the trembling and struggling opposition has been left in the cold for over seven years.

In the past, Kwara had the reputation a political entity shaped by poverty, religion and poor literary, AbdulRasaq has tried frantically to promote peaceful coexistence and religious harmony while also investing in education and socio-economic welfare through empowerment and good governance.

Succession and zoning:

Next year, the governor, who chairs the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, is expected to be elected into the Senate on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). According to his succession plan, AbdulRazaq is also expected to handover to House of Assembly Speaker Danladi Yakubu, a politician from Kwara North Senatorial District, whose choice as the governorship candidate has fulfilled the criterion of zoning, rotation and power shift in the spirit of equity, fairness and justice.

To the vice president, AbdulRazaq has done the state and country proud through his scorecard.

He said the investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic development by AbdulRazaq reflected the importance of building projects capable of serving generations beyond the tenure of an administration.

He added that ‘these are chapters in the story of a state as its people encounter it: the lesson a child can attend, the treatment a household can seek, and the market a farmer can reach.’

The vice president also spoke about his personal friendship and working relationship with the governor, saying both regularly engaged on matters of governance beyond ceremonial occasions.

He said their responsibilities frequently converged at the National Economic Council (NEC), where the Federal Government and states deliberate on economic proposals, implementation, financing and the circumstances confronting communities across the country.

Shettima said: ‘At the National Economic Council, our responsibilities meet in discussions concerning the federation and its states. We consider how economic proposals connect with implementation, financing and the circumstances of communities.

‘That work requires listening across different experiences and respecting the obligations each government carries. A federation is sustained through the patient conversation between those who share responsibility for its people. No boundary on an administrative map can divide the dignity Nigerians are entitled to expect’, he said.

Shettima noted that AbdulRazaq, as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, also participates in engagements with the Federal Government and development partners, adding that such institutional responsibilities ultimately centred on meeting the needs of farmers, households and businesses.

The Vice President identified renewed classrooms, expanded medical coverage and roads connecting communities among areas in which the Kwara administration had invested, stressing the need to preserve and build on such interventions.

Shettima was not aloof to the grievances of those who lost out during the primaries. He urged public office seekers and politicians to give peace a chance as they go about their political aspirations.

The vice president said’those in public offices should resolve to serve with conscience, humility and fear of God and also muster the courage to forgive one another for posterity sake.

He urged Kwara APC leaders to give priority to the value of an enduring personal relationship instead of transient political involvement.

Shettima said: ‘As public office holders we spend more of our lives outside public offices than we do in public offices. Let us embrace each other, let us have the courage to serve with humilty.

‘We are in power not because of our pedigree , intellect ability or physical built but by destiny .What brings us together superceeds what seprate us .

‘I call on all of us to unite in this political season and play politics without bitterness. The truth that set us free is also the truth that people don’t want to hear.’

Noting that power is transient and that Allah gives it to whoever He wishes, the vice President, recalled that of the 19 northern governors, only six, including Governor AbdulRazaq, supported the president’s ambition in 2023.

Shettima said the rumour being peddled around then was that ‘Baba (Buhari) Bayan sunshi’ (meaning Baba doesn’t want him (Tinubu) as president) .

He recalled that despite the odds, President Tinubu crossed the hurdles and became the president without hurting anyone.

Urging Kwara APC leaders to emulate the president, he said they should learn to exhibit courage.

Shouts of S-h-e-h-u filled the air as the Sardauna (Defender of the Emirate), entered the Atlantic Event Centre, venue of the reception, accompanied by his wife, Olufolake, daughter of prominent Lagosian, H.O. Davies. As he took his seat, his commissioners, other aides, relations and well wishers paid homage to him.

‘He is our leader, pathfinder, role model and architect of new Kwara,’ said Lateef Alakawa of Lower Niger Basin Development Authority. ‘He has taken a difficult path to set Kwara on the path of progress and transformation,’ he added.

Alakawa said the state has become united under his leadership, adding that as Sardauna, he has become the defender of the honour and integrity of Kwara.

He said Kwara progressive is united under the leadership of AbdulRazaq, adding that the opposition has no root in the state.

Paying tribute, Dr. Awwal Ibrahim prayed for the governor for more grace. ‘The title has gone to the family that has defended the cause of humanity. The name, AbdulRazaq, is synonymous with service in one way or the other,’ he said.

At the ceremony were Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, Speaker Danladi, Ife Oyedele, President of University of Lagos Alumni Association, House of Assembly Leader Oba Mogaji, Rukayat Shittu, Chief Justice Adebayo and his wife, Olufunke, Muftau Yahaya, Aarinola Lawal, Motunrayo Babatunde, Deputy Chief of Staff Adebukola Babalola, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism Fatima Asabe, Muka Ray Eyiwumi, Rasaq Ariwoola, Saliu Gidado, Mahmod Mohammed, APC Deputy Publicity Secretary Duro Meseko, former Deputy Speaker Ojo Oyebode, Dr. Bolajoko Balogun, Bolanle Olukoju, APC Chairman Sunday, SUBEB Chairman Fagbemi Prof. Sheu Adaramaja, Pastor John Dara, Ambassador Eniola Ajayi, Femi White, Isiaka AbdulRazaq, younger brother of the governor, Prof. Lateef Oladimeji, Vice Chancellor of Hikma University, State High Court Registrar Kuburat Yahaya, Ahmed Solagberu, Abosede Buraimoh, Mrs Titilola Adeleke, wife of Osun governor, Hajia Bola Shagaya, Mrs. Bola Oyebode, Dr. Saliu Jimoh.

MC Always mobilises patients, caregivers after wife’s death

Popular skitmaker and social media influencer, MC Always aka Egbon Adugbo, has turned the painful experience of losing his wife to cancer into a campaign for a more functional healthcare system in Nigeria.

The entertainer recently opened about his wife’s battle with cancer and the experience his family encountered while seeking treatment, saying the ordeal exposed him to what he believes are serious challenges within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

Speaking during an appearance on TV, MC Always recounted the painful journey of trying to save his wife and explained why he has decided to use his platform to advocate for a healthcare system that works for Nigerians.

According to him, his wife’s experience made him realise that many Nigerian families are quietly going through similar struggles without having the platform to tell their stories.

MC Always said his decision to begin the campaign was not simply driven by anger over the loss of his wife, rather, he said, the experience opened his eyes to the difficulties faced by people dealing with serious illnesses, particularly cancer patients and the families caring for them.

He has raised concerns about access to treatment, the cost of healthcare, medical facilities and the challenges patients encounter while navigating the healthcare system.

His campaign has particularly drawn attention to the healthcare situation in Lagos and his family’s experience within the state’s healthcare system.

But according to Egbon Adugbo, something happened after he began speaking publicly about his wife’s experience that convinced him the issue was much bigger than his own story.

The skitmaker said cancer patients and family members caring for loved ones battling the disease began reaching out to him after hearing his story.

He said many of them have been calling to share their own experiences with the healthcare system, recounting the difficulties they have encountered while trying to obtain treatment for themselves or their relatives.

The calls, according to MC Always, have changed his perception of the campaign.

What initially began as his personal decision to speak about his wife’s experience has, in his view, developed into a wider responsibility to give voice to other Nigerians experiencing similar situations.

Osun ex-council boss Jooda sues IG, others for N500m over arrest threat

Former Chairman of Irewole Local Government, Osun State, Babajide Jooda, has filed N500million suit against the Inspector-General of Police (IG), Tunji Disu, a former Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin and five others for allegedly declaring him wanted based on a forged court order.

Jooda, in the fundamental rights enforcement suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CV/511/2026, filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, also listed as respondents, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Police Service Commission (PSC), Commissioner of Police, Osun State Command, Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team, Abuja, former Chief Magistrate, Karu, Ahmed Ndajiwo, the Registrar, Chief Magistrate Court, Karu, Muktar Yusuf, Abass Oladipupo and 11 police officers.

It is his contention that the arrest warrant and the advertorials allegedly signed by Hundeyin and published in major national newspapers, declaring him wanted in February 2026 for terrorism, illegal possession of firearms and culpable homicide, were illegal.

Jooda, who was arrested by the police alongside some suspects over the alleged murder of reinstated chairman of Irewole Local Government Area, Remi Abass, and later released, claimed that the court order which purportedly authorised the publications was forged.

He stated, in a supporting affidavit, that the police, on three occasions, filed separate criminal charges against him, which were subsequently withdrawn.

Jooda further stated that his names were struck out from the charges, following which he was released from custody, adding that the criminal charges previously filed against him at a Magistrate’s Court in Osun State were equally abandoned by the police’s prosecutors.

The applicant, who claimed that the actions of the police were politically motivated, said he was shocked to learn that the police declared him wanted after withdrawing the multiple charges against him.

Jooda, who said he was oppressed, embarrassed, intimidated and dehumanised by the police, is praying the court for among other reliefs, general damages of N250million in addition to exemplary damage of N250million.

Before filing the suit, Jooda had petitioned the Minister of Police Affairs about the advertorials, accusing the police authorities of maligning his character with the defamatory publications.

In the petition written by his lawyer, Chiemeka Okereke, Jooda demanded a public apology to be published within seven days and N50million compensation.

Part of the petition reads: ”It is our brief that sometimes on 26th February, 2025, you went to one Chief Magistrate in FCT and obtained a warrant of arrest for an offence allegedly committed in Ikire township, Osun State, to arrest our client. The said warrant of arrest turned out to be forged and fake. Furthermore, you proceeded with the forged/fake document and published in your Special Police Gazette Bulletin.”

SJB-UNP alliance to counter NPP’s ‘one-party rule’: Sajith

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa yesterday declared that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the United National Party (UNP) would unite against President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s administration, framing the move as a response to what he called the Government’s attempt to establish one-party rule and erode democratic institutions.

Speaking at a discussion titled ‘J.R., Governance and the Middle Path’ at the National Library and Documentation Services Board auditorium in Colombo, Premadasa said the SJB-UNP cooperation was intended to offer the country a policy-driven alternative rather than a vehicle for political positions or personal gain.

The event, organised by the SJB-affiliated Alumni Association of the D.S. Senanayake Political Academy, was also attended by former President and UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Premadasa said the coming together of the two parties would be anchored in a ‘progressive, people-oriented’ policy framework built around the economic philosophy of former President J.R. Jayewardene, blending a market economy with social welfare and social democracy. He argued the approach would allow the country to pursue growth while protecting vulnerable groups.

The Opposition Leader pointed to what he described as widespread economic hardship to make his case for unity, claiming between 30% and 40% of the population was living in poverty and that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) were struggling.

He said Sri Lanka had reached a ‘critical turning point’ and that the SJB and UNP needed a common program to confront it.

Concern over arrest, movement of lecturer from Ilorin to Kogi

A controversy has erupted over the alleged movement of a University of Ilorin lecturer from Kwara State to Kogi State following claims that about 17 police officers travelled to Ilorin to arrest him in connection with a politically related complaint.

The circumstances surrounding the reported incident remain unclear, with the alleged deployment and the reason for the lecturer’s reported movement yet to be independently established.

It was learnt the development may be connected to political disagreements within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi West.

Sources familiar alleged that the don was targeted because of his perceived political association and views on issues involving a senator and the administration of Kogi State, including discussions surrounding the Kabba-Olle-Iluke Road project.

The sources further alleged that the police team travelled from Kogi to Ilorin with the intention of taking the lecturer to Kogi State.

However, there was no independent confirmation that about 17 officers were involved, nor was it established whether the reported movement was carried out pursuant to a warrant, invitation, or other lawful authority.

The development has raised concerns because the lecturer is based in Kwara State, while the alleged police operation was said to have originated from the Kogi State Command.

Sources also alleged that the operation followed an instruction purportedly linked to a senior security official in Kogi State.

The allegation could not be independently verified.

The reported incident comes amid political disagreements within the Kogi West APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The disagreements have reportedly centred on the political future of a serving senator representing the district and the emergence of candidates for the next elections.

The senator recently held a town hall meeting with constituents and party stakeholders from Kabba/Bunu and Ijumu at an event centre in Kabba.

The meeting was attended by APC leaders, former lawmakers, traditional representatives, women and youth leaders and other party stakeholders.

Some participants expressed support for the senator’s continued representation of the district, while there were also calls for support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other APC candidates.

Sources alleged that the political activity had heightened tensions among some party members, with claims that individuals perceived to be aligned with the senator or the President had subsequently faced pressure or threats.

There were also allegations that some APC ward chairmen in Kabba/Bunu and Lokoja local government areas had been suspended, while some political appointees and party officials had faced pressure over their perceived political affiliations.

One case cited by sources involved a local government legislative leader who was allegedly threatened with replacement after attending a political programme in Kabba.

The spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command said she was not aware of the alleged development.

Efforts to obtain the response of the senior security official whose name was mentioned in connection with the alleged operation were unsuccessful as of the time of filing the report.

A message sent seeking clarification on the alleged deployment and the circumstances surrounding the lecturer’s reported movement was not answered.

The police authorities and the Kogi State government have therefore not confirmed that a team of 17 officers was deployed to Ilorin or that the alleged operation was authorised by the government.

The lecturer was, however, reportedly taken to Lokoja, while efforts to secure his release on bail were said to be ongoing.

The circumstances surrounding his movement from Ilorin to Lokoja, including the specific complaint against him and the legal basis for his reported detention, could not be independently established.

The development is likely to attract attention as political activities intensify in Kogi West ahead of the 2027 elections.

Any confirmed evidence that security personnel were deployed in connection with an internal political disagreement could raise questions about the circumstances and legal basis of such an operation.

For now, the allegations concerning the deployment, the lecturer’s reported arrest and the alleged political motive remain unconfirmed.