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  • CPTA Challenges Peter Obi Over Auchi SUG Death Claim, Demands Retraction and Apology

    CPTA Challenges Peter Obi Over Auchi SUG Death Claim, Demands Retraction and Apology

    The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has called on former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi to retract and apologise for his claim that two students died during the Student Union Government (SUG) election at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.

    At a press conference in Abuja, the organisation’s Executive Director, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., described Obi’s statement—made via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on July 5—as “inaccurate, unverified, and capable of inciting public concern.”

    “We believe the statement to be false and misleading,” Ogheneyero said. “It has the potential to cause panic, misinform the public, and tarnish the image of a reputable institution.”

    Citing an official report by the Polytechnic’s Director of Public Relations, Mrs. Angela Egele, the group said no deaths or serious injuries occurred during the election, which was declared inconclusive due to procedural irregularities. The election, they stated, was held peacefully under the supervision of security agencies and independent observers.

    CPTA issued a seven-day ultimatum for Mr. Obi to publicly apologise and correct the record, warning of possible legal action if the demand is not met.

    The group also used the occasion to commend the institution’s Rector, Dr. Salisu Shehu Umar, for his developmental strides since assuming office in February 2022. Listed achievements include the construction of new road networks, modern classroom blocks, a 250-seat lecture theatre for the School of Engineering, and upgrades to the central library and ICT centre.

    “Dr. Umar has demonstrated a strong commitment to institutional development and student welfare. It is crucial that public commentary supports, rather than undermines, such progress,” Ogheneyero added.

    CPTA urged political figures and opinion leaders to verify claims before making public pronouncements, stressing the need for responsible engagement with facts to maintain public trust in educational and national institutions.

  • RE: PDP’s Misguided Allegations on Pension Deductions – A Clarification of Facts

    RE: PDP’s Misguided Allegations on Pension Deductions – A Clarification of Facts

    Our attention has been drawn to a recent statement issued by the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that the Dapo Abiodun-led administration is guilty of “monumental betrayal” of workers’ trust over an alleged ₦82 billion in unremitted pension deductions and the ongoing pension reform process.

    Ordinarily, such political mudslinging, laden with half-truths, historical amnesia, and outright mischief, would not merit a response. However, in the interest of setting the records straight and preventing the further misdirection of public discourse, it is important to clarify the facts for the good people of Ogun State.

    A Misleading Figure and Misplaced Accusation
    The oft-quoted figure of ₦82 billion being parroted by the PDP is not a product of the Dapo Abiodun administration alone. It is, in fact, a cumulative pension liability that spans across multiple administrations, including that of PDP-led governments in Ogun State. It is either deliberate dishonesty or an unfortunate lapse in memory for the PDP to ignore its own role in the historical accumulation of the said obligations.

    The attempt to single out Governor Abiodun’s government as the originator or sole contributor to this backlog is not only intellectually dishonest but morally indefensible. A simple audit of the state’s pension records will clearly reveal that the legacy pension burden is an inherited challenge — one which Governor Abiodun has, in fact, taken concrete steps to address.

    Moreover, the Dapo Abiodun administration has in the last 6yrs paid billions with the view to offsetting backlogs, if they care to check the records.

    Facts Over Fiction
    If the PDP genuinely cared to consult the records, which remain publicly accessible, it would find that the Dapo Abiodun administration has, in the past six years, paid several billions of naira toward offsetting pension arrears and gratuities. While the backlog remains a challenge, it is one this administration inherited and has steadily worked to reduce; not one it created.

    The idea, therefore, that the government has remained “silent” or is guilty of “criminal negligence” is not only unfair and false, but it is also a weak attempt at politicising a sensitive and ongoing reform process.

    Reforming with Responsibility
    Far from the picture of negligence being painted, the framework for pension reform under Governor Abiodun is a well-considered component of the administration’s broader agenda for sustainable governance and workers’ welfare. Rather than continue the trend of reactive and opaque pension practices, this administration is pushing for a Contributory Pension System (CPS) that guarantees long-term transparency, accountability, and dignity for Ogun State’s workforce.

    The CPS reform is not a smokescreen as alleged; it is a necessary and consultative process aimed at building durable structures for the future. The government has engaged labour leaders and continues to work on the institutional frameworks, including the establishment of pension boards, a functional pension database, and a phased plan to address legacy liabilities.

    Sincerity Should Be Reciprocal
    While it is expected that opposition parties will scrutinize government policies, such criticism must be rooted in facts, not fantasy. It is misleading and frankly irresponsible to accuse the Abiodun administration of embezzlement or criminal negligence without providing any verifiable evidence to support such a grave claim.

    The Ogun PDP’s penchant for spinning numbers without context or sincerity of purpose does not only undermine public trust; it betrays the very workers they pretend to defend. Sincerity is not just demanded from government; it is also expected of those who wish to hold government accountable.

    Governor Abiodun’s Record Speaks
    Governor Dapo Abiodun remains committed to responsible governance, with verifiable records of prioritising the welfare of workers and retirees. From prompt salary payments to deliberate pension settlements and inclusive engagement on reform initiatives, this administration has shown a sincerity of purpose and an open-door approach to problem-solving.

    The reformed pension agenda will not be derailed by spurious accusations or politically-motivated distractions. It will proceed carefully, transparently, and in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.

    Conclusion
    The Dapo Abiodun-led administration urges the Ogun State PDP and other political actors to engage in constructive criticism backed by facts, not propaganda. The road to reform is not paved with sentiment but with sincerity, strategy, and service. Ogun State workers deserve clarity, not chaos.

    Signed:
    Akinleye Olu-Phillips
    Media Consultant to Hon. Adekunle Akinlade (Triple A)
    Date: Tuesday, 8th July 2025

  • CSOs, Youth Group Back Oil Sector Reforms, Urge Protesters to Follow Due Process

    CSOs, Youth Group Back Oil Sector Reforms, Urge Protesters to Follow Due Process

    • Says real accountability should start from states and local governments
    • Urges Youths to refrain from being used by selfish shadow parties

    ‎In a show of solidarity with Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the League of Civil Society Groups, in collaboration with the National Youth Council of Nigeria, staged a peaceful gathering in Abuja on Monday, expressing support for ongoing reforms while calling for wider accountability across all levels of governance.

    ‎Speaking at the event, President of the League, Bassa Mohammed, emphasized that the development of the nation is closely tied to the strength and efficiency of the oil and gas industry, noting that while some progress has been made, the institutions managing the sector must continue to receive support as Nigerians monitor their activities to ensure transparency and delivery.

    ‎”We are here to say we see the efforts in the oil sector. If there is a need, we will hold them accountable. But as of today, we have not seen them going astray,” Mohammed stated.

    He, however, expressed concern over some youths being used by selfish actors in the streets of Abuja under the guise of protests, warning that such actions could lead to chaos if not properly handled.

    ‎”There are proper channels for addressing grievances, even the president can be removed by due process if need be. We cannot allow the country to be thrown into disorder just because some people want to push personal agendas,” he said.

    ‎Addressing the public outcry over the high cost of petrol and cooking gas, Mohammed explained that while the hardship is real, Nigerians must understand that the previous subsidy regime largely benefited a few powerful individuals. He said the money saved from subsidy removal should now be invested in sectors like health, education, and agriculture. He challenged Nigerians to begin holding their state and local leaders accountable, stressing that these levels of government are now receiving significantly higher allocations.

    ‎Also speaking at the gathering, Comrade Muktar Akoshile, Vice President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, urged young people to look beyond the temporary pains of subsidy removal and focus on the long-term gains.

    He pointed to various youth-targeted programs by the government and urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be manipulated by self-serving individuals seeking to monopolize the national space. “We are tired of seeing youths on the streets of Abuja. Let the sponsors of these chaotic protests leave young people out of their games,” Akoshile said.

    ‎Both leaders called on Nigerians to engage responsibly and constructively, stressing that nation-building requires patience, accountability at all tiers of government, and a united front against actions that could plunge the country into disorder. They however, reaffirmed their commitment to continue monitoring the oil and gas sector, supporting meaningful reforms, and holding all public officials to account, be it at the federal, state, or local government levels.

  • Human Rights Abuse Allegations: Edede Franklyen Capacity Champions Justice for Kenneth Duni Naftali

    Human Rights Abuse Allegations: Edede Franklyen Capacity Champions Justice for Kenneth Duni Naftali

    Prominent figure Edede Franklyen Capacity has taken a stand against alleged human rights abuses by government agencies, specifically advocating for Mr. Kenneth Duni Naftali, who claims to have faced intimidation, oppression, and dehumanization.

    The matter has garnered significant media attention, with coverage on major platforms like AIT, Arise News, Channels TV, and international blogs and social media outlets.

    Key Issues

    1. Alleged human rights abuses by government agencies (DSS, Nigeria Police Force, Office of the Attorney General)

    2. Intimidation, oppression, and dehumanization of Mr. Naftali

    3. Calls for justice and accountability

    The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, faces scrutiny over his administration’s handling of the matter.

    The case is expected to have far-reaching implications for human rights in Nigeria and beyond, with the international community closely monitoring developments.

    As the case unfolds, Nigerians and the global community await the government’s response, hoping for justice and accountability.

  • CECOE Congratulates CG Bashir Adeniyi on WCO Appointment

    CECOE Congratulates CG Bashir Adeniyi on WCO Appointment

    • Commends President Tinubu, Calls for Tenure Extension

    The Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) has congratulated the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, on his historic emergence as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, describing it as a major milestone that enhances Nigeria’s global image.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, CECOE’s Coordinator, Dr. David Owah, described the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria, noting that it is the first time since the WCO Council was established in 1953 that a Nigerian would lead the global body.

    Dr. Owah applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promoting capable, ethical leadership through the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that CG Adeniyi’s rise reflects the success of the President’s commitment to rewarding excellence and driving meaningful reforms.

    CECOE highlighted CG Adeniyi’s key reforms, including record revenue growth, strengthened anti-smuggling operations, improved border security, and the introduction of modern digital systems that have simplified customs procedures and boosted Nigeria’s competitiveness in global trade.

    The group called on the Presidency to grant CG Adeniyi a tenure extension, stressing that leadership continuity is essential to sustain current reforms and fully harness the benefits of his global influence. CECOE warned that changing leadership now could slow Nigeria’s progress and reduce its international leverage.

    Describing its call as a patriotic appeal, CECOE urged all stakeholders to support CG Adeniyi’s continued leadership, saying his success is proof that Nigeria thrives when merit is prioritized. The group also commended President Tinubu for fostering a system that rewards competence and urged him to consolidate these gains by retaining CG Adeniyi in office.

    CECOE concluded by expressing confidence that with CG Adeniyi’s continued leadership, Nigeria is positioned for even greater achievements in customs administration and global trade.

  • Lagos Jazz Festival to Celebrate Rashid Lombard, Icon of African Culture and Music

    Lagos Jazz Festival to Celebrate Rashid Lombard, Icon of African Culture and Music

    • Rashid Lombard Remembered: Lagos Hosts Special Jazz Tribute for South African Legend
    • Africa Unites in Jazz: Lagos Honors Cape Town Festival Founder Rashid Lombard

    The Lagos International Jazz Festival (LIJF) will this weekend host a powerful tribute in honour of late South African cultural icon, Rashid Lombard, whose legacy shaped African jazz and global cultural activism.

    The Tribute Showcase Jam Session, presented by Inspiro Productions, will hold on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at LIVE Lounge, 15 Idejo Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, beginning at 5:00 PM. The event is free to the public.

    Honouring a Giant of African Jazz

    Rashid Lombard, a revered photojournalist, anti-apartheid activist, and founder of the renowned Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), passed away on June 4, 2025, at the age of 74. Widely known as a chronicler of South Africa’s struggle and a champion of the arts, Lombard’s influence transcended borders.

    His most enduring contribution remains the CTIJF, established in 2000 as a partnership with the Netherlands’ North Sea Jazz Festival. The event has grown into Africa’s largest jazz festival, drawing over 40,000 international visitors annually, and creating a vital platform for African and global jazz talents.

    Global Tributes

    Following his death, tributes have poured in from global leaders, musicians, and cultural institutions.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described Lombard as:

    “A cultural icon who not only documented our history of struggle but made history in his own right. His fearless documentation of apartheid’s cruelty and his creation of Africa’s biggest jazz festival placed South Africa on the global cultural map.”

    Lagos Pays Homage

    In Lagos, the jazz community—led by Ayoola Sadare, CEO of Inspiro Productions and convener of the Lagos International Jazz Festival—joins the international outpouring of love and remembrance.

    “For African jazz, and for me personally, Rashid Lombard was more than a pioneer — he was my mentor, my friend, my father figure,” said Sadare. “He gave so much of himself to nurture others. His vision lit the path for my journey in cultural production. I owe this to him.”

    Sadare, who first met Lombard in 2005 through journalist Nseobong Okon-Ekong, credits the late icon’s mentorship as the spark behind LIJF. “He taught me that you’re never too old to dream again. His impact on my life and work is immeasurable.”

    A Night of Jazz, Joy, and Legacy

    Sunday’s concert promises a dynamic evening of live music, featuring some of Nigeria’s finest jazz and soul performers, including Bright Gain, Victor Ademofe, Gloria Ibru, Wale Adeyemi, Herbert Kunle Ajayi (HKA), Agba Joshu, Jesse Bangz, Samuel Ayunke, Zosu, Mikifa, A Stringz, and more.

    “This is not just a concert — it’s a cultural statement,” said Sadare. “Rashid’s light continues to shine through every note, every rhythm, and every young artist he inspired.”

    Pan-African Solidarity in Song

    Lombard believed deeply in jazz as a unifying force for Africa. The Lagos tribute reflects this spirit, bridging two cities — Lagos and Cape Town — in a shared celebration of creativity, resilience, and African excellence.

    “Admission is free. The memories are priceless,” reads the official LIJF invitation. “Join us as we celebrate the life, music, and legacy of a true son of Africa — Rashid Lombard — forever in our hearts.”

  • Singer GT Da Guitarman and Wife Adedolapo Abiodun Welcome Baby Girl in Massachusetts

    Singer GT Da Guitarman and Wife Adedolapo Abiodun Welcome Baby Girl in Massachusetts

    Nigerian singer and guitarist Olugbemiro Tokunbo, popularly known as GT Da Guitarman, and his wife, Adedolapo Abiodun, are celebrating the arrival of their first child — a beautiful baby girl.

    The couple’s daughter was born at exactly 2:16 PM (14:16 Boston time) on Friday, June 21, 2025, at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Massachusetts.

    GT Da Guitarman rose to fame in the early 2000s with soulful hits like “Dreamer”, “Eko Ile”, and a memorable feature on General Pype’s “Champion Remix.” Known for his heartfelt vocals and skillful guitar work, he remains a beloved figure in Nigeria’s music scene.

    Sharing the good news on social media, the elated father wrote:

    “My heartbeat, Adedolapo, and I welcomed our precious baby girl into the world. Both mother and daughter are doing beautifully, and my heart is full. Thank you all for being part of our journey. Your love, prayers, and support mean the world to me. God bless you always.”

    Adedolapo Abiodun, a software engineer and realtor based in Boston, originally hails from Ekiti State, Nigeria, and is now a U.S. citizen. She also expressed immense gratitude for a safe delivery and the gift of motherhood.

    Following the announcement, fans, fellow artists, and well-wishers took to social media to congratulate the couple and celebrate the new addition to their family.

  • NDYPC Salutes Tinubu, Ribadu, and Otuaro for Driving Human Capital Growth in Niger Delta

    NDYPC Salutes Tinubu, Ribadu, and Otuaro for Driving Human Capital Growth in Niger Delta

    • Lauds Swift PAP Scholarship Disbursement as a Lifeline for Youth Empowerment
    • Says Otuaro’s Leadership Restores Trust, Sparks New Hope Across the Region

    The Niger Delta Youths for Positive Change (NDYPC) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for what it described as a landmark breakthrough in advancing human capital development in the Niger Delta.

    In a statement issued by Comrade Elliot, Global Coordinator of NDYPC on Wednesday, the group expressed deep appreciation for the swift and seamless disbursement of PAP educational scholarships, emphasizing that the move has rekindled hope and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the future of Niger Delta youths.

    “This is more than a payment, it is an investment in minds, a bold step toward sustainable peace, and a lifeline for students who can now continue their education with dignity and confidence,” Comrade Elliot said.

    The NDYPC particularly hailed Chief Dr. Dennis Otuaro for his pragmatic, transparent, and people-centered leadership style, which has restored trust in the scholarship scheme and repositioned the Presidential Amnesty Programme as a true vehicle for peacebuilding, youth development, and reintegration.

    Since assuming office, Otuaro has prioritized the welfare of PAP delegates, focusing keenly on education and skills acquisition as pathways to lasting empowerment and stability in the region.

    The group also acknowledged the strategic roles played by President Tinubu and NSA Ribadu in ensuring that the Presidential Amnesty Programme remains a credible platform for transforming lives, fostering peace, and bridging socio-economic gaps in the post-conflict Niger Delta.

    “We see this as a new dawn for the Niger Delta,” the statement added.

    “Human capital is the true wealth of any society, and with this renewed drive, our youths are no longer left behind in Nigeria’s journey toward prosperity.”

    The NDYPC pledged continued support for the administration’s youth-focused efforts and reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with all stakeholders to promote peace, expand educational opportunities, and create sustainable economic prospects for the region’s vibrant youth population.

  • TGMAN Oyo Governor, Charity Adeniyi Oshiyemi, Mourns Mother at 83

    *TGMAN Oyo Governor, Charity Adeniyi Oshiyemi, Mourns Mother at 83*

    The Nollywood family is extending heartfelt condolences to Charity Adeniyi Oshiyemi, renowned script interpreter and Governor of The Golden Movie Ambassadors of Nigeria (TGMAN), Oyo State Chapter, following the death of her beloved mother, Mama Mary Adebimpe Abake Adeniyi.

    Mama Abake Adeniyi, fondly known as “Iya Ogbomoso”, passed on peacefully after a brief illness at her residence in Inisa, located in the Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State. She was 83 years old.

    Born to the respected families of Oduleye and Olakunbi in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Mama Adebimpe was married to Pa Martins Ademola Adeniyi of Aagba in Boripe Local Government Area, Osun State. Their close-knit companionship earned them the affectionate nickname “Tokotaya or Iya ogbomoso” within their community, symbolizing their unbreakable bond.

    Throughout her life, Mama Mary Adebimpe was revered as a loving wife, nurturing mother, cherished grandmother, and doting great-grandmother. Her legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and motherly wisdom earned her admiration both in her hometown and the wider Inisa community, where she remained a beloved matriarch.

    In an emotional tribute, Charity Adeniyi Oshiyemi described her mother as “a wonderful Abiamo (nurturing mother) who lived a life worthy of emulation. The space she has left behind can never truly be filled.”

    Charity, a prolific Nollywood actress and filmmaker with over 100 film credits to her name—including notable productions like Jagun Afijalo, Timutimu, Irinse Esu, Dilemma, and the much-anticipated Ajeromi—continues to honour her mother’s legacy through her dedication to the arts and mentorship of younger talents.

    Mama Mary Adebimpe Abake Adeniyi is survived by her aged husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

    The family has announced that burial arrangements will be made public in the coming days.

  • PDP/APM Leaders Meet Gov. Dapo Abiodun Ahead of Declaration for APC

    By: Oluwatosin Faleye

    In a significant political development in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun, on Monday, June 23, 2025, received prominent leaders of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The delegation, led by Dr. Sikirulai Ogundele PhD and Hon. Adekunle Abdulkabir Akinlade, met with the Governor in what is seen as a precursor to their formal declaration to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party in the state.

    Other notable figures in attendance included Dr. Ekelojumati PhD, Hon. Olowo Fuja, and several influential grassroots mobilizers across various local government areas of the state.

    The meeting, which held behind closed doors, was described as cordial and strategic, marking a turning point in the state’s political realignment ahead of future elections.

    Governor Abiodun, while welcoming the group, praised their statesmanship and readiness to work towards a more united Ogun State, emphasizing that the APC remains a broad-based party committed to inclusive governance and sustainable development.

    “This is not just a political move, it is a patriotic decision to consolidate progress, foster stability, and build a future of shared prosperity for our people,” the Governor said.

    Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Dr. Sikirulai Ogundele commended the Governor for his open-door leadership and progressive strides across the state, stating that the visit is a step towards formalizing their decision to align with the APC.

    Hon. Akinlade, a former Governorship and Deputy Governorship candidate and respected political figure in the state, affirmed that their group is committed to adding value to the APC’s mission and ensuring continued growth and peace in Ogun State.

    The group is expected to make their formal declaration and integration into the APC in the coming weeks.

    This development signals a major boost for the APC in Ogun State and underscores Governor Abiodun’s rising profile as a unifying force in the political landscape of Nigeria.