Open Grazing Ban Still in Force: Offenders Face Three-Year Jail Term In Ogun
The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to cattle owners and herders, reminding them that the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law—passed in 2021—is still fully in effect, with violators facing a minimum of three years behind bars without the option of a fine.
This reminder was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, amid rising concerns over continued incidents of open grazing across parts of the state.
Akinmade decried the persistent obstruction of traffic and destruction of farmlands caused by some herders, stressing that such actions directly contravene the state’s anti-grazing law.
“The government of Ogun State has observed cases of obstruction of traffic, invasion of people’s farmlands, and destruction of crops across the state. This is a violation of existing law and will not be tolerated a minute longer,” the statement said.
He emphasized that the law was enacted to curb violent clashes between farmers and herders and to promote modern livestock management practices.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law prescribes a jail term of not less than three years without the option of fine. It also mandates the forfeiture of the herds of cattle or livestock under the control of any violator to the state government,” Akinmade stated.
He added that the law prohibits anyone from rearing, herding, or grazing livestock in any part of the state except within government-approved ranches.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the safety of lives, property, and food security, Akinmade concluded: “The law will continue to be enforced with vigour, and offenders will be made to face the full wrath of the law, regardless of their status or background.”
The statement serves as a clear signal that Ogun State will no longer condone illegal grazing activities and is fully prepared to deploy the necessary legal and security frameworks to ensure compliance. Read More
The federal government’s reaction comes amid calls for clarity and calm
“We Are Not Criminals!” — FG Slams Anti-Nigerian Protest in Ghana, Urges Calm Amid Rising Tensions
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned a recent protest by some Ghanaian citizens calling for the deportation of Nigerians from Ghana, describing the action as inflammatory and unjustified.
According to reports, hundreds of Ghanaians staged a demonstration accusing Nigerians of being responsible for a spike in criminal activities such as prostitution, ritual killings, kidnapping, and armed robbery. In viral footage of the protest, demonstrators held placards with provocative messages like “Armed robbery and violent attacks must stop,” “Our health at stake due to mass prostitution,” and “Our kids are getting missing because of Igbos.”
Responding to the development, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) released a statement on Tuesday through its Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun. The statement quoted NIDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, as calling for restraint and urging against generalizing criminal behavior.
“Nigerians are not criminals. They are good ambassadors wherever they find themselves while those bad ones should be fished out and face the necessary sanctions,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She stressed the longstanding relationship between both nations, calling Ghana and Nigeria “Siamese twins” who must continue to foster peace under the principles of ECOWAS and regional cooperation.
In her appeal to Nigerians living in Ghana, Dabiri-Erewa urged them not to be provoked or resort to violence in response to the protests. She assured that the matter is being addressed diplomatically.
“Anyone using inciteful words should desist henceforth, both Nigerians and Ghanaians, as that is capable of escalating the matter,” she warned.
Addressing concerns about alleged attacks on Nigerian-owned properties in Ghana, Dabiri-Erewa stated: “There is no evidence to that and we must at all cost prevent any reprisal attacks.”
She commended both the Nigerian and Ghanaian High Commissions for working together to de-escalate tensions, and revealed that Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs has been in contact with Ghanaian authorities to take proactive steps in resolving the issue.
The federal government’s reaction comes amid calls for clarity and calm, with stakeholders urging both sides to avoid stoking further division between the two West African neighbors. Read More
Dangote Foundation feeds 10,000 households in Cross River
As part of efforts to ameliorate the pangs of hunger in the society, the Aliko Dangote Foundation last week began the distribution of 10,000 bags of rice, each weighing ten kilograms, to vulnerable households, people living with disabilities and the less privileged in Cross State.
Secretary to the Cross River State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, represented the State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, at the event. Prof Owan-Enoh described the donation as a true example of what public private partnership can do to reduce level of suffering in the society. He said “this impactful gesture, part of a nationwide food intervention effort, is a testament to the power of collaboration between government and private organizations in improving the lives of citizens.
On behalf of the Governor, we extend our sincere gratitude to the Aliko Dangote Foundation. This kind of support uplifts our people and aligns perfectly with the ‘People First’ agenda of the Cross River State Government. Cross River State remains committed to partnerships that bring relief, hope, and development to our communities.”
Speaking during distribution exercise, the Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Edero Victor Ejiro, said the initiative is part of the foundation’s annual National Food Intervention Project, which aims to support over one million disadvantaged Nigerians across the country.
He stated that the foundation will be distributing 10,000 bags of 10kg rice to the vulnerable population in the state.
He pointed that the Foundation’s distribution is across the 774 local government areas in the country and is intended to cushion the effects of the hardship currently being experienced in the country.
His words: “We are here to present 10,000 bags of 10kg rice to the people of Bayelsa. The Aliko Dangote Foundation has been in existence for over 30 years and has been helpful in the areas of empowerment, nutrition and education.
“This distribution of rice is to support and complement the food security initiative that is been put in place by the various state governments and the rice distribution is across the 774 local government areas in the country. Our target beneficiaries are market women, the vulnerable, physically challenged people, widows and artisans.
“We have seen the template that the state government wants to use to distribute the rice and we are impressed with what we saw, and we believe that they are going to do a thorough job by distributing the rice to the needy and vulnerable in our midst.
“This programme is to support families, support people in the grassroots to alleviate and back up synergy with the state government.”
There was a large turnout of beneficiaries at the event, who after receiving the bags of rice commended the Chairman of Aliko Dangote Foundation for his large heart in caring for the vulnerable in the society. A widow, Victoria Edem Ekpenyong, one of the beneficiaries lauded the Chairman of the ADF for his kind gesture and prayed for God’s continuous protection for him.
Distribution has also kicked off at the local government level, with hundreds of beneficiaries collecting the bags of rice with joy and praising the founder of Aliko Dangote Foundation. Read More
Obanikoro ‘Jacuzzi’ Congratulates Taiwo Oyekan on Resumption as Lagos Island LG Executive Chairman
…Hails Ogunfowora, Omoibuowo’s Appointments as Key Aides
Lagos-based entrepreneur and grassroots politician, Prince Sanni Damilola Obanikoro, popularly known as Jacuzzi, has congratulated Hon. Prince Taiwo Ajibade Oyekan on his formal assumption of office as the Executive Chairman of Lagos Island Local Government.
Hon. Oyekan resumed office on Monday, July 28, 2025, amid high expectations from residents and stakeholders in the local government.
In a congratulatory statement made available to the press, Prince Obanikoro described Hon. Oyekan as “the best choice for the chairmanship seat,” citing his “leadership acumen and unprecedented achievements as a council legislator.”
“Hon. Oyekan is a vibrant and target-result-oriented politician. He is passionate about the well-being of the people and community development. I am very confident that he would perform beyond people’s expectations,” Obanikoro said.
He further lauded the council chairman’s prompt move to inspect critical community infrastructure such as the Olowogbowo Community Area Office, Health Centre, and Olowogbowo Methodist Primary School—steps he described as a signal of Oyekan’s proactive leadership style.
In the same message, Prince Obanikoro extended warm congratulations to Mr. Lateef Ogunfowora on his appointment as Chief of Staff and Mr. Taofeeq Omoibuowo as Deputy Chief of Staff to the chairman.
“Mr. Ogunfowora is a technocrat and grassroots politician whose inputs to the success of Team PTO are immeasurable, while Mr. Omoibuowo is an experienced local government legislator. Both of them are partners in progress,” he stated.
Obanikoro expressed optimism that the leadership team under Hon. Oyekan would deliver inclusive governance and people-oriented development for the residents of Lagos Island. Read More
Transcorp Group Posts N279.7bn Revenue Growth, N4.064B Interim Dividend To Shareholders
Transnational Corporation Plc (Transcorp Group), Nigeria’s leading conglomerate with investments across power, hospitality and energy, has posted strong financial results for the first half of 2025, marked by a 59 per cent increase in revenue and the declaration of an interim dividend of N4.064 billion.
According to its unaudited financial results for the period ended June 30, 2025, the Group’s revenue rose sharply from N175.4 billion recorded in the same period last year to N279.7 billion.
The performance also saw profit before tax grow by 21 per cent, closing at N85.7 billion compared to N70.9 billion in H1 2024, reflecting sustained momentum in its diversified operations despite challenging economic conditions.
A significant feature of the performance was the improvement in gross profit margin, which stood at 47 per cent.
In line with its commitment to shareholder value, the Board of the Group approved an interim dividend of 40 kobo per ordinary share, amounting to N4.064 billion, subject to applicable withholding tax.
Chairman of Transnational Corporation Plc, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, described the results as evidence of the company’s consistent delivery on its mission to create impact and value across Nigeria’s key economic sectors.
He highlighted continued innovation in the power sector through Transcorp Power and Transafam Power, and major strides in hospitality, notably the launch of the Transcorp Centre in Abuja—a state-of-the-art events venue that has already attracted international dignitaries and hosted landmark gatherings, including the 2025 AFREXIM Annual Meetings.
“Our growth demonstrates the resilience and strength of our diversified business model,” Elumelu stated. “We remain dedicated to achieving our strategic vision, rewarding our valued shareholders, and driving the sustainable transformation of Nigeria’s economy.”
President and Group Chief Executive Officer, Owen Omogiafo, OON, noted that the Group’s ability to deliver robust results amidst economic volatility reflects its deep operational resilience and focus on execution.
She said the new 5,000-seat Transcorp Centre positions Nigeria as a hub for major regional and international conferences, while underscoring the Group’s ambition to lead in scale, service and infrastructure.
“The Q2 2025 financial performance reflects our firm commitment to operational excellence and the resilience inherent in our corporate strategy,” Omogiafo said. And added, “We continuously explore innovative ways to further accelerate our growth trajectory while strengthening our leadership in Nigeria’s power, hospitality, and energy sectors.”
Transcorp Group, through its power subsidiaries, supplies over 20 per cent of Nigeria’s installed electricity capacity and is expanding domestic energy development through investments in OPL281.
Its hospitality subsidiary, Transcorp Hotels Plc, owns the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja and also operates the lifestyle and travel tech platform Aura by Transcorp Hotels, further entrenching its presence in the digital space.Read More
Tragedy struck in Ogun State on Monday as a farmer lost his life after being attacked by a stray elephant that reportedly escaped from a government forest reserve.
The fatal encounter occurred in Imobi, located in Ijebu East Local Government Area. The victim, identified as Musa Kalamu, was reportedly attacked while working on farmland and later died en route to the hospital.
Confirming the incident, the Ogun State Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, told Punch, “Yes, we are aware and we are already on our way to the community.”
Further details were provided by the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, who said the animal attack was reported to the Ogbere Divisional Police Office on July 28, 2025, at about 4:20 pm.
“The DPO Ogbere received information from the Itasin community that elephants escaped from the government reserve and attacked one Musa Kalamu, who died on the way to the hospital,” Ogunlowo said. “Officers of Ogun State Forestry were contacted to curtail the animals from further damage. Calm has returned to the community.”
“Tinubu Has Delivered—North Will Back Him Again in 2027,” Says Gombe Governor Yahaya
KADUNA, Nigeria – Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum, Inuwa Yahaya, has pledged unwavering support from the North for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing the president’s track record of fulfilled promises and visible infrastructure development across the region.
Speaking on Tuesday at the opening of a two-day interactive session organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation at Arewa House in Kaduna, Yahaya said the North is poised to reward President Tinubu’s performance with a second term.
The forum, themed “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizen Engagement for National Unity,” brought together stakeholders from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory. Present at the event were notable representatives of the presidency, including Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
“When candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu stood before us, he made specific commitments to Northern Nigeria. The North, believing in his vision, gave him over 60 percent of the total votes. Today, those promises are becoming reality,” Yahaya declared.
The governor cited a series of ongoing federal projects in the North as proof of Tinubu’s commitment, listing the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano expressway, the Kano–Katsina–Maradi rail line, the rehabilitation of the Kaduna refinery, the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline, and operations at the Kolmani oilfields.
“These projects promise industrial growth and energy security in Northern Nigeria. We must reward performance in 2027—and by that standard, President Tinubu has earned our support,” Yahaya affirmed.
He praised the president’s “Renewed Hope” agenda for transforming age-old regional aspirations into concrete progress, despite persistent national challenges.
Highlighting the enduring alliance between the North and the Southwest, Yahaya referenced the legacy of the late Premier of the Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello: “The North’s strength lies in its unity with all Nigeria.”
Yahaya’s declaration comes at a time when opposition voices in the North are becoming more vocal. A coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been gaining support among some Northern groups and has vowed to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election.
But Governor Yahaya remains confident. “The North rewards results—and President Tinubu is delivering. That is what will matter in 2027,” he said. Read More
“This is not a demand for patronage, but a call for fairness and political equity. Our people are watching, and they deserve to be seen, heard, and represented.”
‘Ado-Odo/Ota LG Deserves Recognition’ – Segun Ojolowo-Ojuko Writes President Tinubu
A leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and grassroots mobilizer in Ogun State, Hon. Olusegun Ojolowo-Ojuko, has written an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, appealing for urgent federal recognition and appointments for the Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency, which he described as the “number one performing APC local government in the South-West” during the 2023 presidential election.
Ojolowo-Ojuko, a former Senior Special Assistant on Housing to Governor Dapo Abiodun, expressed his deep respect for the President while reminding him of the extraordinary electoral support Ado-Odo/Ota delivered during the last elections.
“Despite our unwavering loyalty, our federal constituency has yet to receive any form of federal appointment—no Special Advisers, no Board Chairmen, no Directors-General, not even Senior or Special Assistants to the President,” Ojolowo-Ojuko lamented.
In his heartfelt message, Ojolowo-Ojuko recalled his active involvement in APC’s successful campaigns at both the local and senatorial levels, noting that his letter was a continuation of earlier communications where he had extended congratulations on the President’s Supreme Court victory.
Citing election figures, he pointed out that Ado-Odo/Ota ranked fifth among the top 137 local governments in the South-West based on APC presidential votes—with 46,558 votes. However, unlike others on the list, Ado-Odo/Ota was the only top-performing LGA actually won by the APC, making it the most effective local government base for the party in the region.
“This distinction makes Ado-Odo/Ota the number one performing APC local government across the entire South-West. Such a monumental achievement deserves recognition and federal inclusion,” he argued.
The letter also emphasized the strategic political weight of the constituency, highlighting its over 400,000 registered voters and the potential to deliver more than 100,000 votes in future elections if fully mobilized through federal inclusion.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-In-Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Quoting a Yoruba proverb, Ojolowo-Ojuko added poignantly, “As the Yoruba adage goes: Omo eleran ko gbodo je eegun — the child of a meat seller should not be left to gnaw on bones. We gave our all and deserve more than silence.”
He appealed for the nomination of qualified indigenes of Ado-Odo/Ota into key federal positions to reward loyalty, reinforce grassroots mobilization, and strengthen support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This is not a demand for patronage, but a call for fairness and political equity. Our people are watching, and they deserve to be seen, heard, and represented.”
Ojolowo-Ojuko concluded the letter with prayers for the President’s continued wisdom and health as he leads Nigeria into a new chapter of growth and stability.
Read the full letter below;
Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency: Olusegun Ojolowo-Ojuko Writes President Tinubu
Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Your Excellency,
Permit me to humbly reach out through this open letter, as it appears the most direct and effective means of communication in these times. I do so with deep respect and unwavering commitment to the ideals of service and patriotism that you so passionately uphold.
I am one of the many loyal foot soldiers who worked tirelessly during the last general elections to ensure victory for our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), across multiple levels. I served as Director of Campaigns both at the local level in Ado-Odo/Ota and at the senatorial level in Ogun West. I also had the honour of leading the advance team for the Governor during the campaign period.
Sir,I had earlier written to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your well-deserved affirmation by the Supreme Court. That landmark judgment not only reaffirmed the mandate freely given to you by the Nigerian people but also reinforced our collective confidence in your vision to lead our great nation through 2027 — and, by the grace of God, potentially until 2031.
In that same letter, I respectfully noted that the people of Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency remain steadfastly loyal to your leadership — a loyalty that was clearly reflected in the outcome of the 2023 general elections, which you won convincingly. I also pointed out that, despite our unwavering support, we are yet to be considered for a federal appointment.
Once again, I write to respectfully bring this matter to your attention. It is both urgent and deeply symbolic.
The people of Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency — proudly the ancestral home of the Awori people — played a pivotal role in the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 Presidential Election. Our performance was not only exceptional within Ogun State, but also stood out among 137 local governments across the entire South-West geopolitical zone.
To illustrate this, allow me to share the electoral performance figures:
Top Results from the 137 local governments in the South-West in the 2023 Presidential Election
Rank
Local Government
State
Votes for APC
1
Alimosho
Lagos
71,326
2
Amuwo-Odofin
Lagos
55,547
3
Oshodi-Isolo
Lagos
51,020
4
Ikorodu
Lagos
50,353
5
Ado-Odo/Ota
Ogun
46,558
6
Akure South
Ondo
45,694
7
Ado-Ekiti
Ekiti
28,751
8
Osogbo
Osun
27,474
9
Ibadan North
Oyo
28,416
While Ado-Odo/Ota came fifth overall in votes cast for the APC, it is important to note that the four LGAs ahead of us—though with marginally higher numbers—were won by opposition parties. This distinction makes Ado-Odo/Ota the number one performing APC local government across the entire South-West. Such a monumental achievement deserves recognition and federal inclusion.
Regrettably, despite our contributions and unwavering loyalty, our Federal Constituency and local government has yet to receive any form of federal appointment—no Special Advisers, no Board Chairmen, no Directors-General, not even Senior or Special Assistants to the President.
Your Excellency, this is disheartening for a community that gave so much and asked for so little. As the Yoruba adage goes: “Omo eleran ko gbodo je eegun”, meaning “the child of a meat seller should not be left to gnaw on bones.” We, the people of Ado-Odo/Ota, humbly seek what is due to us—not as a favour, but as a recognition of merit and loyalty.
With a current registered voter strength of over 400,000, Ado-Odo/Ota holds significant strategic electoral importance. If properly mobilized and engaged through federal presence and appointments, this local government alone has the potential to deliver over 100,000 votes in future elections.
In view of the above, we respectfully appeal to Your Excellency to consider qualified sons and daughters of Ado-Odo/Ota for federal appointments in your administration. We believe this will not only honour our contributions but will also serve as a motivation for continued grassroots support for your Renewed Hope Agenda.
May the Almighty God continue to strengthen you with wisdom and good health as you lead our great nation to greater heights.
God bless the President. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Respectfully, Hon. Olusegun Ojolowo-Ojuko Former SSA on Housing to His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR (Governor, Ogun State)
Neither the APC State secretariat nor Pastor Ojelabi had issued an official response to the protest
Lagos APC Members Storm Assembly, Demand Removal of Party Chairman Ojelabi
IKEJA, LAGOS — Scores of All Progressives Congress (APC) members took to the streets of Lagos on Monday, staging a protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly in Alausa, demanding the immediate removal of the party’s state chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi.
Protesters, reportedly mobilized from all 57 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across the state, converged at the Assembly complex with placards bearing bold inscriptions such as “Ojelabi Must Go,” and “We Need New Leadership Now.”
Lagos APC members’ protest
Chanting solidarity songs and voicing deep dissatisfaction with the current party structure, the demonstrators said the APC in Lagos needs a new direction and more inclusive leadership ahead of critical political events.
“We are tired of a leadership that does not carry the grassroots along. The party belongs to all of us, not just a few. We need change now, or the APC will suffer for it in 2027,” one of the protesters said.
There was a strong police presence at the protest venue to maintain order, with security operatives ensuring the demonstration remained peaceful and did not obstruct public activities in the area.
As at press time, neither the APC state secretariat nor Pastor Ojelabi had issued an official response to the protest.
The demonstration marks a significant escalation of internal dissent within the Lagos APC, signaling possible cracks ahead of future elections. Read More
WAFCON Triumph: Tinubu Gives Each Super Falcon $100,000, 3-Bedroom Flat in Abuja, OON National Honours
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been handsomely rewarded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following their stunning triumph at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
In a celebratory event held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu announced a remarkable package for each member of the victorious team: the naira equivalent of $100,000, a three-bedroom apartment in the Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Abuja, and the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) national honour.
The announcement came just days after the Falcons clinched their 10th WAFCON title, defeating host nation Morocco 3-2 in a dramatic final in Rabat—a victory that further cemented Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football.
“Your victory has brought immense pride to our nation,” President Tinubu said while addressing the jubilant squad. “You have shown the world the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Nigerian women. This is more than a win in football—it is a national achievement worthy of celebration and recognition.”
Reward Breakdown for Each Player:
$100,000 (in naira equivalent)
Three-bedroom apartment in Abuja
OON national honour
In addition to the players’ rewards, each member of the technical crew will receive a $50,000 cash bonus, as approved by the President.
Further adding to the celebrations, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum announced an additional ₦10 million gift for every player and crew member, underscoring the nationwide appreciation for the team’s achievement.
The ceremony was filled with dancing, cheers, and the proud presentation of the WAFCON trophy to President Tinubu. It was attended by senior government officials, sports administrators, and stakeholders from Nigeria’s football community.
Prior to the final match, President Tinubu had also approved the immediate release of all owed allowances and match bonuses, ensuring that the team went into the final with full backing from the federal government.
The resounding recognition has not only celebrated the Falcons’ brilliance on the pitch but has also ignited renewed calls for greater investment in women’s sports, gender equity in Nigerian athletics, and long-term support for grassroots female football development.
As the country basks in the Falcons’ continental success, many see this moment as a turning point—one that could reshape the narrative around women’s football in Nigeria for generations to come. Read More
