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Dr. Dolapo Badru Commissions State-of-the-Art Automotive Training Centre at LASUSTECH

Education

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August 29, 2025

Hon. Dr. Dolapo Badru has facilitated a new Automotive Training Centre at Lagos State University of Science and Technology, inaugurated by Minister John Owan Enoh, to boost mechanics’ technical skills in Lagos

Dr. Dolapo Badru Commissions State-of-the-Art Automotive Training Centre at LASUSTECH

A landmark Automotive Training Centre facilitated by Hon. Dr. Dolapo Badru has been commissioned at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The facility was officially inaugurated on Monday, August 25, 2025, by the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh.

Speaking during the commissioning, Senator Enoh praised the initiative, describing it as a major boost to Nigeria’s automotive sector. He noted that the state-of-the-art centre would provide auto mechanics with advanced training opportunities to upgrade their skills and knowledge base.

“The Automotive Training Centre will avail mechanics the opportunity to scale up their expertise, expand their knowledge, and handle a greater volume of mechanical works,” the minister said.

Also present at the event, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, lauded Hon. Badru’s intervention, stressing that the facility aligns with the state government’s drive to promote technical education and youth empowerment.

The Automotive Training Centre is expected to serve as a hub for hands-on learning, research, and innovation in automobile engineering, equipping students and local artisans with the capacity to meet global standards in automotive repair and technology.

“This laudable project would boost local production of automobiles and Nigeria’s economy.”

“President Tinubu committed is to reviving the automotive industry, technological transfer and foster youth empowerment in line with his renewed hope agenda, “the minister said.

According to Sen. Enoh,when fully operational, the institute will provide over 1 million new jobs for Nigerian youths.

He hinted that 21 more centres would be constructed across the country.

Speaking further, the minister commended Dr. Badru for facilitating the project.

On his part, the Lagos state governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the executive secretary of Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board, Mrs. Moronke Azeez noted that the centre will accelerate human capital development, technological innovation, and drive economy of the state.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu’s siad the automotive industry is the bedrock of the economy. “My administration will continue to support it.”

He lauded Dr. Badru’s intervention initiative describes it as timely and productive.

The honourable member representing Lagos Island federal constituency 1 at the federal house of representatives and facilitator of the project, Hon. Dr. Enitan Dolapo Badru, represented by the clerk of the house committee on industry, Dr. Usman Ibrahim said the automotive training centre was constructed to accelerate the advancement of the automotive industry, stimulate economic growth by creating jobs, supporting local content, and fostering skills development.

The director general and chief executive officer of National Automotive Design and Development Council(NADDC), Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin said the institute was established to provide a well equipped workshop for maintenance and manufacture. Nigerian made vehicles of international standards at competitive prices using local, human, and material resources.

He stated further that auto mechanics would be able to use modern equipment cum computerised diagnosis system to detect mechanical faults.

The Automotive training centre is equipped with state of the art work tools.

Dignitaries present at the event were the minister of state for industry, trade and investment, sen. John Owan Enoh, representatives of the Lagos state governor, Mrs. Moronke Azeez and Dr. Enitan Dolapo Badru, chairman of NADDC governing board, chief Emma Eneukwu, DG/CEO of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, chairman, senate committee on industry, Sen. Francis Fadahunsi,chairman of NADDC Governing board, chief Emma Eneukwu, LASUTECH VC, Prof. Olumiyiwa Odusanya president of the automotive council of Nigeria: Engr. Best Nnodim, captains of automotive industries and a host of others. Read More

FG Hikes Nigerian Passport Fees —N100,000 for 32 Pages, N200,000 for 64 Pages

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August 28, 2025

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The Nigeria Immigration Service says the hike will fund improved e-passport security and service delivery

FG Hikes Nigerian Passport Fees —N100,000 for 32 Pages, N200,000 for 64 Pages

The Federal Government has approved a significant increase in the cost of obtaining Nigerian passports, with new fees ranging from N100,000 to N200,000 depending on the category.

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), which confirmed the adjustment, said the revised charges will take effect from September 1, 2025, and will apply exclusively to passport applications processed within Nigeria.

Under the new structure, a 32-page passport with five years’ validity will now cost N100,000, while the 64-page passport with a 10-year validity will be issued at N200,000.

Explaining the reason behind the upward review, NIS spokesman A.S. Akinlabi said the adjustment was necessary to maintain the quality and security of the Nigerian travel document as the government prepares to roll out an upgraded e-passport.

“This review was carried out to strengthen service delivery and uphold the standard of the Nigerian passport as we prepare to launch the new version,” Akinlabi stated.

The Immigration Service clarified that the new charges do not affect Nigerians abroad. Passport applications processed in the diaspora will remain at $150 for the 32-page, five-year option and $230 for the 64-page, 10-year option.

The announcement has already sparked concerns among citizens who fear the hike will place an extra financial burden on applicants. However, the NIS assured Nigerians that accessibility and efficiency in passport issuance remain a top priority.

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Deji Adeyanju Mocks Peter Obi Over Defamation Suit Threat…, Says “Can’t Wait to Meet Him in Court”

Politics

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August 28, 2025

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Rights activist Deji Adeyanju has ridiculed former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi after receiving a legal threat demanding a retraction of alleged defamatory remarks

Deji Adeyanju Mocks Peter Obi Over Defamation Suit Threat…, Says “Can’t Wait to Meet Him in Court”

Rights activist and political commentator Deji Adeyanju has mocked former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi after receiving a letter from the ex-governor’s lawyers demanding a retraction of alleged defamatory statements.

The legal threat, issued by Ejesimen & Co. Madiba Chambers on behalf of Obi, accused Adeyanju of making repeated derogatory remarks against the former Anambra governor on social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter).

The notice cited Adeyanju’s long-standing criticisms of Obi, including a claim from a past private meeting. In that account, Adeyanju alleged:

“He tried to give me money and called it thank you for coming, it’s 100% true.”

The lawyers also pointed to a more recent post on August 21, in which Adeyanju accused Obi of investing state funds in a company allegedly linked to his family during his tenure as governor.

Reacting via his social media pages on Wednesday, Adeyanju dismissed Obi’s legal threat as laughable and vowed to face him in court.

“Just got this letter from Peter Obi, the religious bigot demanding a retraction from me. I laughed so hard. I can’t wait to meet him in court finally. A fraud parading himself as a messiah,” he wrote.

Adeyanju further accused Obi of hypocrisy, recalling how the former governor once branded pro-democracy activist Omoyele Sowore as a “blackmailer-in-chief.” He also revealed that his own legal team had served a similar letter to one of Obi’s female supporters, Serah Ibrahim, demanding a retraction of alleged defamatory comments against his wife.

“This same guy called the great Sowore a blackmailer-in-chief. We served his little errand girl Serah a letter to retract all her defamatory publications on Monday against my wife & she ran to the leader of the mob for help. Can’t wait to meet him in court,” Adeyanju added.

The clash adds a new dimension to the ongoing rift between Adeyanju and Obi’s supporters, further fueling tensions in Nigeria’s heated political space. Read More

First Lady Remi Tinubu’s Fondness for Senator Yayi Fuels Ogun 2027 Succession Speculations

Politics

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August 28, 2025

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According to sources, First Lady Remi Tinubu holds Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) in high regard for his conduct and performance, a factor that could shape Ogun’s 2027 governorship race.

First Lady Remi Tinubu’s Fondness for Senator Yayi Fuels Ogun 2027 Succession Speculations

If there is one lawmaker in Aso Rock who enjoys the special fondness of First Lady Remi Tinubu, sources insist it is Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi), the representative of Ogun East Senatorial District.

Insiders reveal that the President’s wife regards Yayi as a “thoroughbred Omoluabi”—a man of impeccable character and respect. They pointed out that he has consistently accorded her courtesy long before Asiwaju Bola Tinubu assumed the presidency, and she believes he extends the same regard to others.

Beyond personal rapport, Mrs. Tinubu is said to be deeply impressed by Yayi’s record as a federal legislator. Having served as a senator herself, she has watched his transition from representing Lagos West to Ogun West—where his project delivery and developmental strides have been described as “unprecedented.”

His performance, especially in infrastructure and empowerment initiatives across Ogun State, has elevated his profile as one of the leading contenders to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun in 2027. Political analysts note that his ability to attract federal attention and resources has distinguished him in the state’s power circles.

While Mrs. Tinubu is not known to openly involve herself in state politics, her quiet approval is seen as a powerful signal within the All Progressives Congress (APC), one that could significantly influence both Abuja power brokers and grassroots structures in Ogun.

“His good conduct over time and his performance, which is helping to boost the image of the current administration, have really endeared him to the First Lady,” a source disclosed. “He is regarded as one of her golden sons in the village.”

With the 2027 race still wide open, political watchers believe Yayi’s mix of performance, loyalty to political elders, and silent endorsements from figures like the First Lady may prove decisive in shaping the battle for Ogun’s top seat. Read More

Rep. Akinosi Prioritises Education, Hands NIBBRI Mandate for Classroom Renovation, Construction in Ado-Odo/Ota

Lukman Omikunle

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August 28, 2025

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Rep. Akinosi Prioritises Education, Hands NIBBRI Mandate for Classroom Renovation, Construction in Ado-Odo/Ota

Hon. Tunji Akinosi has commissioned NIBBRI to renovate and construct classrooms across Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency. Assessment visits to schools have commenced

Rep. Akinosi Prioritises Education, Hands NIBBRI Mandate for Classroom Renovation, Construction in Ado-Odo/Ota

...NIBBRI Begins Assessment of Schools for Renovation and Construction

The National Building and Road Research Institute (NIBBRI) has commenced an extensive assessment of schools across Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency, as part of efforts by Hon. Tunji Akinosi to improve the learning environment for students.

Akinosi, who represents the constituency at the House of Representatives, has reportedly allocated a significant portion of his 2025 constituency projects to NIBBRI for the renovation and construction of classrooms in various communities.

Leading the inspection team, Engr. Jamiu Lukman said the mandate given to the agency was clear—identify schools urgently in need of renovation and determine where new structures must be built.

“We will ensure quality and standard work while carrying out these projects,” Lukman assured.

Schools visited during the exercise include Ansarudeen Comprehensive School, Koro Otun; Ilogbo-Ashowo Community High School, Ilogbo-Ota; Iyesi High School, Iyesi-Ota; St. Stephen Secondary School, Ado-Odo; Odan-Abuja High School, Odan-Abuja; and Igboko Community School, Igboko, among others.

The project is expected to significantly boost educational infrastructure within the constituency, addressing long-standing concerns over dilapidated classrooms and poor facilities. Read More

FCT-IRS Drags Dino Melaye to Court Over Alleged ₦509m Tax Evasion

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August 28, 2025

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An Abuja Magistrate Court has summoned former Senator Dino Melaye over alleged tax evasion exceeding ₦509 million. The FCT-IRS accuses him of defaulting on personal income tax for 2023 and 2024

FCT-IRS Drags Dino Melaye to Court Over Alleged ₦509m Tax Evasion

Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, is once again making headlines—this time for a serious allegation of tax evasion amounting to more than ₦509 million.

A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Magistrate Court has ordered Melaye to appear before it on September 5, following a suit filed by the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS). The case is being presided over by Magistrate Chiemena Nonye-Okoronkwo.

According to filings, Melaye allegedly failed to pay his personal income taxes for 2023 and 2024, while also under-declaring his income in previous years. The FCT-IRS claims his tax payments have been “grossly inadequate” compared to his declared earnings.

Records presented by the agency show that Melaye paid ₦85,000.08 in 2019, ₦100,000.08 in 2020, ₦120,000 in 2021, and ₦1 million in 2022. Yet, in 2022, he reportedly declared over ₦6.5 million in income, far above what his tax remittance suggested.

Matters escalated in May 2025, when the FCT-IRS issued an administrative assessment for 2023 and 2024. After Melaye allegedly failed to respond, the agency issued a Best of Judgment (BOJ) assessment in June—slamming him with ₦234.9 million for 2023 and ₦274.7 million for 2024, bringing his total liability to ₦509.6 million.

In its formal notice, the tax authority stated:

“Despite reminders and ample time provided, your non-compliance with Section 41 of the Act constitutes a breach of your obligations.”

The summons is seen as part of Abuja’s wider push to enforce tax compliance among Nigeria’s political and business elite—a drive that has often been criticized for selective enforcement.

Whether Melaye’s flamboyant style will shield him or sink him in court remains a question only September 5 will answer. Read More

Ondo Police Expose Shocking Case of Self-Kidnapping by Couple in Ondo Town

Lukman Omikunle

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August 28, 2025

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Ondo Police Expose Shocking Case of Self-Kidnapping by Couple in Ondo Town

Ondo Police uncover self-kidnapping plot in Ondo City involving a couple who staged an abduction to extort ₦10m from relatives. Both suspects confess as police vow tougher security operations

Ondo Police Expose Shocking Case of Self-Kidnapping by Couple in Ondo Town

The Ondo State Police Command has uncovered a case of self-kidnapping involving a couple in Ondo City, exposing a plot designed to extort money from relatives abroad

Police identified the suspects as Mrs. Sanmori Taiwo, 42, and her husband, Pastor Sanmori Olubumi Joshua, 62, both residents of Road 5, Power Line, Ondo City. According to the command, Mrs. Taiwo deliberately secluded herself in a room within their residence on August 23, 2025, while her husband placed calls to relatives, claiming she had been kidnapped by gunmen demanding a ransom of ₦10 million.

The scheme began to unravel when a suspicious relative, Mr. Fasegha O. Joseph, petitioned the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal. Acting on the petition, the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad (SAKS), in collaboration with Enu-Owa Division in Ondo City, stormed the couple’s residence. There, Mrs. Taiwo was found and initially claimed she had just been released by kidnappers after a ransom of ₦5 million was allegedly paid.

Upon interrogation, however, she confessed that the abduction had been staged in collaboration with her husband. According to the police, Mrs. Taiwo admitted the plan was aimed at extorting relatives abroad to settle debts and cover personal expenses. Both suspects are now under investigation, and legal proceedings are expected to follow.

“This case once again demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Ondo State Police Command to unravel all forms of criminality, whether real or staged, in order to preserve peace and safeguard communities,” the command said in a statement signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the Police Public Relations Officer.

The statement credited the success of the operation to the proactive leadership of CP Adebowale Lawal and the policing vision of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM. “The IGP’s emphasis on intelligence-led operations and community engagement has provided the framework upon which the Ondo State Command continues to build its crime-fighting strategies,” the command noted.

The police also acknowledged the role of local forest hunters and the cooperation of residents, urging the public to remain vigilant and law-abiding. “We appreciate the good people of Ondo State who continue to volunteer credible information that has guided police operations. All information shared will be treated with utmost confidentiality,” the statement added.

CP Lawal assured residents that the command would sustain its efforts until Ondo State is free of criminal elements. Read More

Toke Makinwa Welcomes Baby Girl, Shares Emotional Message, Reveals Baby’s Name

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August 28, 2025

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Toke Makinwa Welcomes Baby Girl, Shares Emotional Message, Reveals Baby’s Name

Media personality and actress Toke Makinwa has welcomed a baby girl in the UK, revealing her daughter’s name and expressing heartfelt joy on Instagram

Toke Makinwa Welcomes Baby Girl, Shares Emotional Message, Reveals Baby’s Name

Media personality and actress Toke Makinwa has officially joined the league of celebrity moms as she welcomed a baby girl.

Makinwa, who recently confirmed her pregnancy, shared the exciting news with fans on Thursday via her Instagram page. In a pink-themed gift unboxing video, she creatively revealed the baby’s gender before announcing her daughter’s arrival.

The proud new mother disclosed her baby girl’s full name as Yakira Eliana Olakitan Iyanuoluwa Ikeoluwa Adunola—a name already earning admiration online for its rich cultural and spiritual depth.

In her emotional caption, Makinwa expressed overwhelming joy:

“I’m a mommy, this is the happiest I’ve ever been. My precious daughter, the love I never knew existed. My heart in another human being, my love.”

Reports indicate that the actress gave birth in the United Kingdom, marking a new and exciting chapter in her life.

Since the announcement, her social media pages have been flooded with congratulatory messages from fans, friends, and colleagues, many of whom praised her radiant glow as she embraces motherhood.

See her post

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Ado-Odo/Ota Chairman Felicitates Olota of Ota on His Birthday, Praises Monarch’s Visionary Leadership

Lukman Omikunle

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August 28, 2025

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Ado-Odo/Ota Chairman Felicitates Olota of Ota on His Birthday, Praises Monarch’s Visionary Leadership

Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, celebrates the Olota of Ota Awori, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, on his birthday, praising his visionary leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to Aworiland’s growth and unity

Olota of Ota Awori Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Professor) Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, (Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode, Olofin Apesin Olode)

Ado-Odo/Ota Chairman Felicitates Olota of Ota on His Birthday, Praises Monarch’s Visionary Leadership

The Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, FCA, has congratulated the Olota of Ota Awori Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Professor) Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, (Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode, Olofin Apesin Olode), on the celebration of his birthday.

In a goodwill message signed and issued on Thursday by the Council’s Chief Information and Public Relations Officer, Alabi Sheriff, Hon. Wasiu lauded the monarch’s reign, describing it as one defined by wisdom, peace, and progress.

“The Olota’s reign has been a beacon of development and cultural pride for Ota and Aworiland. His leadership has brought peace, honor, and prosperity to our people,” Hon. Wasiu said.

The council boss further highlighted the monarch’s academic excellence and advocacy for unity across Yorubaland. “Kabiyesi is not only a custodian of tradition but also a renowned scholar whose contributions to Mass Communication and Yoruba unity continue to inspire generations,” he added.

Hon. Wasiu also commended the Olota’s efforts in strengthening cultural heritage and promoting intellectual discourse within and beyond Ota.

He prayed for continued divine blessings upon the monarch, saying: “May God Almighty grant His Royal Majesty long life, sound health, and a reign that continues to usher in success, peace, and prosperity for Ota and Aworiland.”

Read the full statement below

ADO-ODO/OTA LG BOSS FELICITATES OLOTA OF OTA AWORI KINGDOM ON HIS BIRTHDAY

The Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, FCA, extends warm felicitations to His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, PhD, MCIPR, MPRII, FHEA Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode, Olofin Apesin Olode, the Olota of Ota Awori Kingdom, on the occasion of his birthday today, August 28, 2025.

Hon. Adewale Wasiu commended the monarch’s reign, marked by wisdom, peace, and progress, and his commitment to the growth and development of Ota, Aworiland, and the local government area. He praised the monarch’s leadership and vision, which have brought honor and prosperity to Awori land.

The Council Boss also acknowledged the monarch’s distinguished academic career as a professor of Mass Communication, his liberal-minded intellectualism, and his advocacy for Yoruba unity. He noted that the monarch’s efforts have strengthened Ota’s cultural fabric and inspired other communities.

He prayed that, God Almighty grants Kabiyesi good health, long life and his reign to bring more success, peace and prosperity to Ota Awori land and the Local Government area as a whole.

Signed:
Alabi Sheriff
Chief Information And Public Relations officer AOLG.

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Inside Ogun’s Land Crisis: Court Blocks Ilara Seizure as Dapo Abiodun Faces “Land-Grabbing” Allegations

News

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August 27, 2025

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A court order has halted the Ogun State Government’s bid to seize Ilara land, fueling claims that Governor Dapo Abiodun is fronting a shadowy “land-grabbing” agenda through proxy companies

Inside Ogun’s Land Crisis: Court Blocks Ilara Seizure as Dapo Abiodun Faces “Land-Grabbing” Allegations

A fresh storm has engulfed the Ogun State Government after a court injunction stopped the administration from acquiring land in Ilara, a Remo community — a move critics say exposes the Dapo Abiodun-led government’s relentless push to strip indigenes of their ancestral property.

The ruling, handed down on August 26, 2025, has intensified allegations that Abiodun is running a “land-grabbing administration” that operates through opaque networks of proxy companies and backroom deals.

Community heads and monarchs across Remo are raising alarm over what they describe as an orchestrated campaign to erode their traditional authority. “There is no land to rule over anymore,” a palace insider revealed, echoing the mounting frustrations of royal institutions left powerless by government-backed land seizures.

In Irolu, another Remo community, residents accused the government of supporting aggressive land takeovers disguised as legitimate purchases. Locals insist that companies involved in these transactions are mere fronts for political elites shielding their identities.

Observers point to a disturbing pattern: land acquisition deals shrouded in secrecy, contracts signed without community consultation, and a government seemingly determined to expand its control at all costs. “Something fishy is going on,” one critic remarked, questioning why the Abiodun administration treats land procurement like classified intelligence rather than public policy.

Civil society groups and opposition leaders have been unsparing in their criticism. They accuse Governor Abiodun of weaponizing land for political and economic gain. “Instead of building a legacy of development, this government is treating communal land as political currency,” one activist charged.

Analysts argue that the Ilara ruling is more than a legal setback — it’s a political warning shot. It calls into question the governor’s respect for due process, traditional institutions, and the very people who entrusted him with power.

For many Ogun indigenes, the battle is no longer about land alone. It has become a fight against what they see as Gov. Abiodun’s stubbornness, his disregard for cultural heritage, and his failure to safeguard the economic backbone of his people.

With the judiciary finally stepping in, more communities may now be emboldened to resist the state’s controversial land grabs through the courts. The real question is whether this legal blockade will curb Abiodun’s ambitions — or whether the governor will double down, proving once again that his administration serves powerful insiders rather than the people of Ogun State. Read More