Category: Nigerian Tribune

EXACTLY a week ago, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, taking the title Arusa 1, being the first to be so crowned in the Arusa family of Isale Osi, Ibadan. Though a week has passed since Olubadan’s coronation, telltale signs of the ceremony remain conspicuous in the big city. Banners, billboards, lamppost banners, and signposts of different colours and sizes still adorn the streets, thus making the corners and the streets continue to wear the celebratory mood that preceded September 26. They are all signs that the revered monarch, Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the throne was welcomed by the young, the old, the high and the lowly, the indigenes and residents alike. The scenes around his celebration are such that have not been replicated around the coronation of any such top-class monarch in recent years.

But the widespread acceptance of Oba Ladoja’s reign also comes with huge expectations. There is no denying the fact that all of the indigenes, the residents of Ibadan and friends of Ibadan, who supported the coronation events, whether with cash or kind or with their physical presence, have one expectation or the other of the new monarch. Discussions around the streets of Ibadan and in enlightened circles indicate that many are of the view that Ladoja would deliver the goods to the ancient city. There are those who believe that with the Oba, having shown capacity and vision as governor of Oyo State between 2003 and 2007, the assurance is there that he would take Ibadan to greater heights.

Prof Toyin Falola, a renowned professor of African Studies, who currently chairs the Jacob and Sanger Mossiker Chair in Humanities at the University of Texas, Austin, United States, was the guest lecturer at the first coronation lecture organised in honour of Oba Ladoja as the coronation processed flagged off last week. The professor of History, who spoke on the topic: ‘Ibadan History: Issues in Tradition and Modernity,’ told his audience that the personality of Oba Ladoja who had been successful in business and politics would bring development to Ibadan. He further submitted: ‘Though he is not the governor, the expectation of the people of Ibadan and the state is high because he has the power to influence things to be achievable.’

Falola’s message was not lost on anyone in the gathering, and those who picked up copies of the lecture afterwards. The growing trust deficit on democracy and governance among the people has failed to reassure them that the governance model would solve their problems. Many top Africans, former leaders, and scholars have also continued to raise issues about service delivery under the democratic procedures adopted by Africans. Not a few Nigerians have raised issues with service delivery in the country, which turned 65 on Wednesday. The grumblings about democratic growth, service delivery under democracy, and the capacity of the system of government to ensure the growth they need apparently fired the instinct of many in the traditional system bequeathed by their forebears. The Ibadan monarchy, one of the surviving legacies of the Yoruba/African political system, appears to provide the fillip for the people to invest their hope once again, and that should largely account for the zeal, the ceremony, the widespread unity of purpose with which every strata of Ibadanland participated in the coronation process.

The chairman of the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles, Ambassador Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, would also reinforce the people’s belief in Oba Ladoja when she spoke at the reception held in respect of the coronation on Sunday. Speaking at the Civic Reception put together by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigene (CCII) at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Awolowo Dosumu told the monarch to ensure his reign reignites an Ibadan renaissance. Reflecting on the scenes that pervaded the coronation ceremony, she said it was ‘the renewal of the spirit of Ibadan.’

She commended Oba Ladoja for offering to restore Ibadan’s old glory, ensure a crime-free society, and foster a city where leaders act with integrity and make the indigenes and residents feel at home, adding that: ‘These are not just words. They are a manifesto of purpose, a call to action, and a covenant with the people.’

Awolowo Dosumu also directed her message to the monarch, the Mogajis, and the people, urging the chiefs and all stakeholders to work with the Kabiyesi to achieve the lofty tasks ahead. She said: ‘As we honour Kabiyesi, we also rededicate ourselves to that vision. Let this coronation not only be the celebration of a new reign but the beginning of a new renaissance for Ibadan.’

At that same event, a former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, spoke about the huge expectations on the shoulders of Arusa 1. He told the monarch to build on the administrative legacies of Late Oba Akinyele and Oba Oloyede Asanike, adding that the two monarchs made significant impacts in the growth of Ibadan. He specifically praised Oba Akinyele for bringing wisdom and scholarship to bear on the palace during his reign, while, according to him, Oba Asanike’s sense of humour and native intelligence guaranteed the stability of Ibadanland.

He submitted: ‘Oba Ladoja should learn from Olubadan Akinyele, who brought wisdom and scholarship to the palace. Also, he should learn from Olubadan Asanike, who chose humour and native intelligence to bring change and stability.’

The first words of Oba Ladoja upon receiving the staff and instruments of office on September 26 also did not let the people down. He spoke to President Bola Tinubu as a friend and repeated the key demand of the Ibadan people for Ibadan State. He even asked the people to rise and thank the president for accepting the request. Besides that, the monarch has also expressed his readiness to ensure that institutions operating within Ibadanland contribute to the city’s economy by providing jobs for the people. He also said at the Civic reception that he planned to grow the economy of not only Ibadan but Oyo State as a whole, adding that he would ensure an enabling environment for investors.

He said: ‘The major assignment before me as Olubadan of Ibadanland is the growth of Ibadanland. The status of Olubadan is not about the wearing of status but ensuring the all-round growth of the town. To achieve this feat, I will collaborate with the government at all levels to ensure that Ibadan and Oyo State at large maintain their pace-setter status.

‘We are all governing Ibadan. I am just the coordinator. You people are the small Olubadans; I am the big Olubadan. Ibadan will be greater by God’s grace and with your support. I am now the king of all religious groups in Ibadan. We have never had a record of religious crisis in Ibadan because members of the various religious groups are represented in each family in Ibadanland. Ibadan is a fertile land for investment and economic growth. It shall continue to be well with Ibadan.’

With those words coming from the new Olubadan, it is not in doubt that he is well abreast of the tasks ahead. The Olubadan must bring his weight to bear on the growing social vices, which are becoming commonplace not only in Ibadan but in our society across the land. Ibadan is also home to several moribund companies and dying industrial estates. Ogun State is already leveraging on the access provided by the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to site several multi-million industries; Ibadan and Oyo State can take a cue. Not a few residents and indigenes who celebrated the ascension of Oba Ladoja to the throne would be thrilled to see the monarch take efforts in reviving most, if not all, of the dead industries which made Ibadan thick in the days of old.

After directing over 1,000 music videos, Unlimited LA said he was ready for a new challenge, a desire that led him to create ‘Rise Again’, his debut Africa Magic Original.

He disclosed this during a panel session at the Africa Magic Showcase screening in Lagos, where he explained that after years of shaping the visual landscape of Nigerian music, he was determined to take on a bigger storytelling challenge.

‘I’ve shot over 1,000 music videos and I got tired, so I asked myself if I could just transition into filmmaking,’ he said. ‘Everybody on that set happened to be my friend. I reached out to everybody and I got a lot of ‘nos,’ but the ones that told me ‘yes’ are the people who made Rise Again possible.’

His words reflected the philosophy shared at the screening by Victor Sanchez Aghahowa, Head of Production, West Africa, MultiChoice, who said the company prioritises creators with both vision and tenacity.

‘If you are stubborn enough and you believe enough, our job at MultiChoice is to put everything behind you,’ Sanchez said. ‘But it’s to put it behind you because if I find that I have to put it in front of you there’s a problem. So, I tend to look out for people who right from the beginning are dogged. They know what they want to do. They are great at taking notes but they’re also good at giving vision.’

‘Rise Again’ follows the story of a gifted dancer’s journey of resilience and redemption as he battles betrayal, loss and injury in a bid to reclaim his dream. The limited series will premiere on October 19.

The show also boasts a star-studded cast, including reality TV favourites Liquorose, Saskay and Hermes Iyele; media personalities Do2dtun, Dadaboy Ehiz and Koko by Khloe; music star Mr P; and dance icon Kaffy, among others.

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has warned contractors handling Federal Roads across Edo State to expedite action and complete the projects by October 2025 or face contract termination, adding that the only way to get the economy of a state or a nation to move forward is to build roads.

Hon. Umahi, who gave the warning while on an inspection tour of federal roads across Edo Central and Edo South Senatorial Districts at the weekend, particularly ordered CBC, one of the contractors handling the road project, to return to the site on Monday or face the likelihood of contract termination.

The visit was aimed at assessing first-hand the deplorable state of critical road infrastructure and exploring urgent interventions to ease the burden on commuters.

The inspection tour took the delegation to Ujuelen, the Ekpoma stretch of the Benin-Auchi-Lokoja Expressway, and Egbele in Uromi, where the Minister expressed deep displeasure at the condition of the roads.

The Minister, accompanied by the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to helping the people through quality projects that would impact meaningfully on them.

He said: ‘When we came on board about the time of the election of our dear governor, the stakeholders came to see the President and say, look, we need this place (Benin-Auchi road).

‘In September last year, when a truck fell in this location, it took divers to swim to the point to rescue the driver. And it was a sight that nobody should pray to see.

‘And I think the President saw it. So, when they came and mentioned it, the immediate intervention was to use the BUA tax credit to rescue this place. Today, nobody will understand how this place was. So, I commend BUA very highly.’

Continuing, Umahi said: ‘The job quality is excellent, the speed is good, but I am tasking them in the month of October, if this first 10 by 220k is not finished, I will ground all your operations everywhere in the country until this is done.

‘I think there should be an element of madness to right the wrongs of the past, and you can now go and talk anyhow you want to.

‘So, I am directing CBC to get back to the site while commending them because my conscience is before God. I work for God, Mr President and the people.

‘I am very courageous to do the right thing, and this is very important. So, CCECC, by Monday, you are not working effectively in two sections. I know you have not been mobilised, then forget about that job. We will give it to other people.’

He explained that one of the greatest problems being faced by the Federal Government in terms of building roads is that contractors handling the projects have no more than 25 projects each, inherited from the past administration, and have inadequate personnel to execute the projects.

‘So, they don’t have the personnel or equipment to man those jobs. So, they go into economic politics and say Oh, there is rain, traffic and demand for compensation.

‘But I am poised to address such politics. People are suffering, and the President is committed to righting the wrongs of the past.

‘When we came on board, and I challenge anybody, tell me any state outside what the governors are doing that has 100km of road that you can pass without a challenge?

‘There is none. What BUA is doing is what the President is doing. He is building roads, not constructing roads.

‘Because this is part of the NNPC Tax Credit project. And the President has directed that none of these projects should stop. So, if you see any other stopping, it is our responsibility and we owe the public very serious apologies.

‘So, I have directed the Director of Works on what the contractors need to do nationwide. We need to get the right method statement for the execution of road projects.

‘I think that the contractors on this road have a responsibility to assist, because the hold-up you see, you have to hold me responsible because the President has given every assistance to ensure that this road, all the way from Warri down to Abuja, is in very good condition,’ he disclosed.

Governor Okpebholo, on his part, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for prioritising Edo roads, noting that the administration’s renewed focus has inspired confidence among the people.

He described the APC as a progressive party delivering tangible results, adding, ‘This is a federal road, but Edo people use these roads, and we cannot abandon them.

‘President Tinubu has changed the narrative, and our people are grateful. What our administration is doing is visible to everyone. In the past, the State Government put up signs saying ‘please bear with us’.’

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Gift Johnbull, described the project as a direct product of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ adding that communities along the route are already feeling the impact of federal attention.

Speaking earlier for BUA International, Project Manager, Mohammad Rabiu, assured that the new concrete design being used on the 30km Ekpoma section of the road would ensure longevity.

‘This Ekpoma section was once a death trap. Today, people are smiling. In a few weeks, we will return to commission this project,’ he said.

Director of Federal Highways (Construction and Rehabilitation), Engr. Clement Ogbuagu also commended BUA International for the quality of work delivered on the 30km Ekpoma section.

He explained that the previous contractor’s poor performance necessitated termination before President Tinubu re-awarded the contract under a tax credit scheme.

Governor Okpebholo and Engr. Umahi also visited some parts of the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin-Asaba Expressway, recently handed over to a Concession Company.

In a significant development, Umahi formally handed over the completion of one full carriageway from Ewu to Agbor to the Edo State Government.

He explained that while the Federal Ministry of Works will handle the design, execution will be managed locally by the State Government.

The Image Merchant Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, has inaugurated a new hostel for its Young Communication Fellowship in Kano, addressing a key logistical need for participants from the state and beyond.

PRNigeria Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Yushau Shuaib, spoke at the graduation of ten fellows, who completed an intensive training that blended classroom instruction with field experience to connect academic theory and expertise in journalism, public relations, and crisis communication.

While thanking the training partners, Shuaib explained that the hostel was built to accommodate participants from distant locations as the programme forges ahead in its goal to nurture professionals and tackle misinformation.

‘Beyond equipping participants with essential communication skills, this programme prepares them to respond to the challenges of information disorder and positions them to contribute meaningfully to society,’ he noted.

Fellowship Coordinator, Dahiru Lawal, detailed the curriculum, which included digital journalism, fact-checking, social media management, and crisis communication strategies. Fellows undertook visits to media houses, academic institutions, and corporate firms for firsthand experience.

The graduation featured strong endorsements from industry leaders and public officials. IMPR Board Chairman, Associate Prof. Sule Ya’u Sule, praised the initiative’s youth development focus and donated ?250,000 to support the fellows’ corporate project.

Nigeria Customs Service spokesperson, Asst. Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, lauded PRNigeria’s mentorship model for shaping his own career. He advised the graduates to remain disciplined and pledged technical support for their projects.

A grassroots politician and former Kano commissioner, Malam Garba Yusuf, and Kano Command Police spokesperson, SP Haruna Kiyawa, encouraged the graduates to use their new digital capabilities to create positive change in their communities.

Other dignitaries in attendance were the Sarkin Kofar Dukawuya, Alhaji Bello Maitama, Senior Special Assistant to the Kano Governor, Hon. Ramadan Yusuf, and the Publisher of Solace, Abdullatif Jos.

Aliyu Shehu Ingawa, on behalf of his peers, assured that the cohort would apply their skills to solve real-world communication challenges. A fellow, Hadiza Umar, in a project pitch, proposed a platform to combat information disorder and promote media literacy among youths.

Apart from the annual fellowship, PRNigeria Centres in Abuja, Kano, and Ilorin have trained young people in a wide range of skills, including videography, photography, web management, graphic design, and public speaking, among others.

Launched in 2024, the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship is an IMPR initiative designed to promote excellence in journalism and strategic communication by equipping young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in a dynamic media landscape.

Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected hoodlums and recovered a fabricated AK-47 rifle and other dangerous weapons during a routine patrol in Uyo.

The suspects, identified as Joshua Benjamin from Mbiaku, Ikono Local Government Area, and Kingsley Friday Michael from Ikot Ekop, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, were apprehended in the early hours of Thursday, October 2, 2025, along Idoro Road by Abolin Junction.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, operatives on routine patrol spotted the duo loitering suspiciously at a dark spot at about 12:30 a.m. Their conduct drew the attention of the patrol team, leading to their arrest.

A search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of a fabricated revolving AK-47 rifle and a jackknife. The police said the suspects, upon interrogation, failed to provide any credible explanation for their presence at the location or for the possession of the firearm.

‘They falsely claimed to be security guards but could not present uniforms, any means of identification, or credible justification for the weapon in their possession,’ DSP John disclosed.

The suspects, now in custody, are undergoing further interrogation as investigations continue to establish their possible links to criminal activities within the state.

Reassuring members of the public, the Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning that criminal elements will find no hiding place in Akwa Ibom.

The Command also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation for swift action.

Nigerian music legend, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has debunked viral reports claiming he was arrested in London over an alleged altercation with his wife, Natasha Osawaru.

The speculation was fueled by a controversial blogger who alleged that the singer missed his UK tour performance on Thursday because he had been detained on domestic violence charges.

Reacting in a video message, 2Baba clarified that his absence was due to a medical emergency, not an arrest.

He expressed gratitude to fans who showed up for the concert and assured them that plans were underway to make it up to them.

‘First of all, I want to say everyone that came out, I appreciate you. We had a medical emergency, it was tough. To the organizers and everyone that came out, we go regroup and make something beautiful happen. And please, if una no sabi something, make una no talk abeg. This allegedly, I don tire,’ he stated.

The singer, who traditionally married Natasha, an Edo State lawmaker, in July 2025 after ending his marriage with actress Annie Macaulay, has urged fans to disregard the false reports.

The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju (NYCA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Barrister Aminu Junaidu as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

The appointment, effective from September 18, 2025, has been described as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s capital market and boost investor confidence.

Junaidu, a former Attorney-General of Zamfara State, is set to serve a five-year term in this critical role.

The NYCA highlighted that Junaidu’s selection reflects the President’s commitment to appointing highly qualified individuals to sensitive government positions.

As a seasoned technocrat with extensive legal and administrative experience, Junaidu is expected to bring professionalism and integrity to the tribunal.

The organisation believes this appointment will significantly advance the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering economic growth and stability.

The Investment and Securities Tribunal plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes within Nigeria’s capital market, ensuring that investors’ grievances are addressed promptly and fairly.

Junaidu’s leadership is anticipated to enhance the tribunal’s efficiency, further solidifying Nigeria’s position as a safe and attractive destination for investments.

Comrade Usman Usman, President of the NYCA, stated, ‘We wholeheartedly applaud President Tinubu for this well-thought-out appointment.

‘The selection of Barrister Aminu Junaidu is another evidence of the detailed research and diligence of the President’s team in identifying one of the finest minds from Northern Nigeria to lead a sensitive agency like the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘This decision reflects the administration’s dedication to competence and excellence.’

He added, ‘Junaidu is a seasoned technocrat whose expertise will undoubtedly add immense value to the Renewed Hope Agenda. His appointment is a clear signal that the President prioritizes merit in building a prosperous Nigeria.

‘We assure Mr. President of our unwavering support as he continues to make decisions that propel our nation forward.’

The NYCA emphasised that Junaidu’s extensive experience in law and governance makes him uniquely suited for the role.

As a former Attorney-General, the group said he demonstrated a commitment to justice and fairness, qualities that are essential for leading the tribunal.

His appointment is seen as a boost to the confidence of both local and international investors in Nigeria’s capital market.

Junaidu’s five-year tenure is expected to usher in reforms that will streamline dispute resolution processes within the tribunal.

The NYCA believes this appointment aligns with the broader goal of fostering economic resilience.

With Junaidu at the helm, the NYCA is confident that the agency will play a pivotal role in attracting more investments, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.

The organisation urged all stakeholders to support Junaidu in his new role.

Comrade Usman Usman further remarked, ‘Barrister Junaidu’s appointment is a masterstroke by President Tinubu.

‘His impeccable credentials and deep understanding of legal and financial systems make him the right choice to lead the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘We are confident that his leadership will strengthen investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global financial community.’

He continued, ‘The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu’s transformative agenda.

‘We call on all Nigerians to rally behind this administration and its appointees, like Junaidu, who are poised to deliver on the promise of a renewed Nigeria.

‘Our commitment to the President’s vision for 2023 and beyond is unshakable.’

The NYCA also noted that Junaidu’s appointment is a source of pride for Northern Nigeria, as it showcases the region’s pool of talented and capable professionals.

The organisation believes his leadership will inspire young Nigerians to strive for excellence in their respective fields.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, alongside Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has commissioned the newly upgraded Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Kumo.

In Kumo, the First Lady received a rousing welcome as residents, youths, trade groups and students trooped out in their numbers, lining the streets to celebrate the historic commissioning.

In her remarks, Oluremi Tinubu lauded the Gombe State Government for its massive investment in healthcare, which laid the foundation for the hospital’s upgrade from a general hospital into a world-class Federal Medical Centre.

‘This facility is a clear demonstration of what visionary leadership can achieve. It will significantly improve access to quality healthcare services and stands as a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’ the First Lady noted.

She expressed optimism that Gombe would sustain its trajectory of progress and reaffirmed her commitment to amplifying the voices of the people at the national level.

‘I believe Governor Inuwa Yahaya, who has his people at heart, will continue to support our initiatives for the betterment of Nigerians, especially those at the grassroots,’ she said.

The First Lady further stressed the importance of traditional institutions in national development, calling on religious, traditional, and community leaders to partner with government in sustaining peace and driving grassroots growth.

Earlier, Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid homage to the Emir of Akko, Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku, at his palace in Kumo.

In recognition of her contributions to humanity and the developmental strides brought by the Tinubu administration to Akko, Gombe and Nigeria, the Emir conferred on her the revered traditional title of ‘Sarauniyar Yakin Akko.’

The Emir described the commissioning of the FMC as a historic milestone that opens a new chapter in healthcare delivery for the people of Gombe State.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, Member representing Akko Federal Constituency, commended President Tinubu for the numerous interventions in Gombe.

He reiterated the position of Gombe as a stronghold of the APC and pledged continued support for the President’s administration, assuring the people’s readiness to back his re-election bid in 2027 to consolidate ongoing gains.

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has expressed grave concern over the ongoing action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), warning that the action amounts to self-help and tantamount to economic sabotage capable of derailing the country’s fragile economic recovery.

In a statement issued in Lagos, the Director-General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, emphasised that: ‘conflict is an inevitable feature of the labour ecosystem, and Nigeria has statutory and institutional frameworks designed to address any disputes, including the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) and the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN). Any action capable of discouraging investment, undermining enterprises sustainability, or harming the workers that the unions claim to protect will be counter productive. While trade unions have the legitimate right to embark on industrial action, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

‘It is unacceptable for any union to conscript or coerce those not interested in its action or disrupt the operations of legitimate businesses not party to the dispute. Treating Institutions of labour administration with disdain and resorting to self-help is not only absurd but also against all known Conventions and Recommendations. When employers or workers are aggrieved, there are Institutions created to adjudicate or arbitrate in such matters. Nigeria’s recovering economy cannot be sacrificed on the altar of actions and pronouncements that are alien to global and local industrial relations practice’, he added.

Speaking further, the DG noted that: ‘uninformed and disruptive actions that could jeopardise the nation’s economic survival are neither envisaged nor acceptable in global labour practice. NECA will not be a passive onlooker as the foundation of Nigeria’s labour ecosystem is trampled upon. While we acknowledge the right to strike, such rights cannot infringe on the rights of others or threaten the survival of enterprises.’

Citing international labour instruments, including ILO Conventions 87 and 98, Mr. Oyerinde reaffirmed NECA’s commitment to upholding global labour standards, decent work and responsible business conduct, while not negotiating employers’ rights to manage their enterprises and investments within the ambit of the law. He stressed that the protection afforded to union officials under international conventions does not extend to sabotage, coercion, or actions that undermine legitimate businesses or threaten national security.

Mr. Oyerinde called on the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment to act decisively by stopping the wanton and wilful denigration of Nigeria’s industrial relations system. He stated that ‘with Nigeria sending one of the highest delegations to the ILO Conference annually, it is curious that basic industrial relations principles, Conventions, and Recommendations remain poorly applied.’ He called for the dispute to be resolved through lawful and constructive channels, warning that failure to act decisively could have far-reaching consequences for economic sustainability, job creation and preservation, investment attraction and promotion and national development.

PDP is confused, members of the public should disregard the claim, says APC spokesperson

THE Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday raised an alarm over an alleged plan by the sacked APC chairmen in the state to illegally pay out almost N13 billion of the state’s local government funds as legal fees.

The party therefore called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe the matter, saying that in a leaked letter trending online, one of the sacked chairmen instructed UBA to pay a law firm (name withheld) 15 percent of the allocation paid into the council’s account last week as legal fees.

PDP chairman in the state, Hon Sunday Bisi, described the directive as illegal, saying that the party even gathered authoritatively that the APC ex-chairmen in all the 30 local government councils gave the same instructions to the bank.

‘The total balance in all LG accounts is about N85 billion. Fifteen percent of that amount translates to N12.75 billion which these APC men wanted to pay out as legal fees. Fortunately, the Oyo State High Court order of last Friday stopped them and their scheme,’ he disclosed.

He alleged that the ex-council chairmen used non-council staff members as treasurers and co-signatories of the letters.

‘There is no officer designated as treasurer in the local government scheme of service across the country. Yet these people used individuals who are not local government staff to fill the nonexistent position of treasurer.

‘One of those so used to sign the letter is a non-teaching staff (member) of a private polytechnic in Boluwaduro Local Government Area.

‘It is shocking,’ the PDP chairman said.

According to him, the letter was written a few days ago, instructing a 15% deduction from the accounts of local governments to be paid to a legal practitioner with a UBA account.

The PDP said the sacked chairmen signed ‘IR- REVOCABLE LETTERS OF DE- DUCTION in favour of the law firm, which were forwarded to a branch of UBA.’

The said deduction was to commence from February 2025 to September 2025.

‘The APC has descended to the lowest level with outright impunity and deliberate trampling on the law and the constitution.

‘Despite a court order and a subsisting case before the Supreme Court, the APC is violating all known laws and public finance rules and regulations,’ Hon Bisi said.

An Oyo State High Court on Friday granted an injunction restraining UBA from allowing any payment out of the accounts opened by the APC ex-chairmen, into which the CBN paid the local governments’ seized seven-month allocations.

‘We call on the Inspector General of Police to open criminal investigations into these letters and their authors. All perpetrators of this illegality must be brought to book,’ the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, the APC spokesperson, Chief Kola Olabisi, described the claim as falsehood, saying it is far from the truth. He charged members of the public to disregard it.

Olabisi said it is a plot to give APC a bad name in the face of members of the public, and that PDP is confused and does not know the right direction to take any longer.