The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a narrow but vital 1-0 victory over Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. The match-winning moment came in the 51st minute when Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare came off the bench to score the decisive goal. His strike lifted Nigeria to third place in Group C of the African qualifying zone, keeping their hopes of qualifying for the next World Cup in the United States alive. Nigeria, three-time African champions, will now face Group C leaders South Africa in a crucial encounter on Tuesday. That clash will likely determine whether the Super Eagles stay on track for the 2026 World Cup. Below are three major lessons we learned from Nigeria’s hard-fought win against Rwanda. 1. South Africa Will Be a Tougher Test Despite the victory, Nigeria’s performance against Rwanda was far from convincing. Much of the struggle stemmed from coach Eric Chelle’s tactical setup, which lacked a natural presence on the right wing. This imbalance left the team vulnerable and limited their attacking options. Facing South Africa will be a different challenge altogether. The Bafana Bafana are in fine form and currently top Group C. Nigeria’s players will need to raise their game, show more creativity, and demonstrate better tactical awareness if they hope to secure all three points in that decisive fixture. 2. Tolu Arokodare Proves to Be a Reliable Deputy for Victor Osimhen With Victor Osimhen battling fitness concerns, Nigeria needed someone to step up in attack. Arokodare answered that call. The young striker, fresh from signing for English Premier League side Wolves, delivered once again by coming off the bench to score the winner. This was not his first impactful substitution, as he has now scored twice after being introduced from the bench. Given Osimhen’s possible absence for the clash against South Africa, it would be reasonable for Chelle to consider giving Arokodare a starting role. His composure in front of goal makes him a reliable option in Nigeria’s frontline. 3. Lack of VAR Remains a Major Concern For the second time in this qualifying campaign, Nigeria was denied what appeared to be a legitimate goal due to the absence of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). In the first half, Osimhen found the back of the net, but the assistant referee flagged him offside. Replays clearly showed that the Napoli striker was onside, yet no VAR review was possible. This incident highlights a growing problem in African football. The absence of VAR not only undermines fair play but also risks denying teams vital goals in important matches. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) needs to urgently address this issue to ensure credibility in the qualifying series. Conclusion The 1-0 win over Rwanda gave Nigeria a much-needed lifeline in their 2026 World Cup qualifying journey. While Arokodare’s goal provided relief, the match exposed tactical flaws, reliance on new talents, and the recurring issue of missing VAR technology. The real test now lies ahead against South Africa, where the Super Eagles must show resilience, creativity, and determination. With the group standings finely balanced, every game counts as Nigeria pushes for another World Cup appearance.
Former Super Eagles legends, Samson Siasia and Victor Ikpeba, have shared their scoreline predictions and expectations ahead of the World Cup qualifier clash between Nigeria and Rwanda. The crucial encounter will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, this Saturday. Nigerian fans are anticipating a strong performance from the Super Eagles as they continue their quest for qualification. Siasia and Ikpeba Share Their Predictions During a pre-match session on Super Sports, both Siasia and Ikpeba gave their forecasts for the highly anticipated encounter. Siasia, a former Super Eagles coach, confidently predicted a 2-0 victory for Nigeria, highlighting the team’s attacking strength and determination. Supporting his colleague’s outlook, Ikpeba, an ex-international forward, also went with the same prediction, backing Nigeria to secure a two-goal margin win against the Rwandan side. Nigeria’s Must-Win Situation This match is more than just a qualifier — it is a decisive battle for Nigeria’s World Cup dream. The Super Eagles must secure maximum points to keep their hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States alive. “I’ll say 2-0,” Siasia confidently remarked on Super Sports. Ikpeba echoed the same sentiment, adding, “Yeah, I’ll go for 2-0 for Nigeria.” A win against Rwanda will not only lift the team’s morale but also strengthen their position in the qualification table, ensuring that Nigerian football fans continue to dream of seeing their team shine on the global stage. The Stakes for Nigeria For a country with a rich football heritage, failing to qualify would be a major setback. The Super Eagles are three-time African champions, and expectations are always high when they step onto the pitch. Saturday’s showdown is, therefore, not just about points but also about pride and legacy. If the predicted scoreline comes true, Nigeria will remain firmly in the race to secure a World Cup ticket, keeping fans hopeful for a return to glory.
Nigerian fashion entrepreneur and actress, Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, has officially adopted her husband’s surname following her wedding to Nigerian music star Mr Eazi. Recent checks on Temi’s verified Instagram account reveal that she has now updated her profile name, replacing “Otedola” with Ajibade — her husband’s surname. This move comes shortly after the couple’s highly talked-about wedding ceremonies, which drew attention both in Nigeria and internationally. Temi Otedola Becomes Temi Ajibade Mr Eazi, whose full name is Oluwatosin Ajibade, tied the knot with Temi Otedola in 2025. Their union was marked by a series of glamorous wedding celebrations across multiple global destinations. The couple first held their traditional marriage at the Otedola family’s luxury residence in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This private yet extravagant ceremony brought together close relatives and influential personalities from Nigeria’s elite social and entertainment circles. Following the traditional rites, the lovebirds hosted their white wedding in Iceland, where family members and close friends gathered for a breathtaking ceremony. The choice of Iceland, known for its picturesque landscapes, gave the wedding an unforgettable fairytale atmosphere. Adding to the opulence, another leg of the celebrations was reportedly held in Monaco, one of Europe’s most luxurious destinations, solidifying the wedding as one of the most high-profile events of the year. Social Media Reacts to Temi’s New Name By officially adopting the Ajibade surname, Temi has publicly demonstrated her deep commitment to her husband, Mr Eazi. This change has quickly sparked discussions on social media platforms, with many Nigerians debating cultural expectations, personal choices, and the significance of name changes after marriage. While some fans praised Temi for embracing her husband’s surname, others highlighted the symbolic weight of letting go of her billionaire father’s popular name, “Otedola.” Nevertheless, the move reflects Temi’s decision to embrace her new chapter as Mrs. Ajibade.
Popular Nigerian actress Temi Otedola, the daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, has left fans in awe after unveiling her stunning wedding photos with Afrobeats sensation Oluwatosin Ajibade, famously known as Mr Eazi. The couple, who secretly tied the knot in the breathtaking snowy landscapes of Iceland back in August, had managed to keep every detail of their ceremony under wraps until recently. Their choice of a private, intimate wedding has now become one of the most talked-about celebrity moments of the year. On Friday, Temi pleasantly surprised her followers when she updated her Instagram profile name from Otedola to Ajibade. Alongside the update, she posted a carousel of enchanting wedding pictures with the caption: “Mr and Mrs Ajibade.” A Private Yet Glamorous Wedding in Iceland The wedding, which has now been spotlighted in Vogue Magazine, beautifully captured the serenity of Iceland’s snowy mountains and icy landscapes. Temi and Eazi exchanged their vows in the presence of only close family and a select group of friends, reflecting their desire for a ceremony filled with love, simplicity, and intimacy rather than extravagance. The photos showcased a blend of elegance and minimalism, highlighting Temi’s graceful bridal look and Mr Eazi’s stylish groom attire. Their ceremony has since sparked conversations among fans and fellow celebrities, many of whom admire their decision to prioritize privacy over publicity. From Engagement to Wedding Bliss Fans of the couple will recall that Temi Otedola and Mr Eazi first announced their engagement in April 2022, when Temi shared a heartwarming video of Mr Eazi’s proposal. The news of their engagement immediately went viral across social media, with many speculating that they would eventually choose a quiet wedding instead of a grand celebrity affair. Their latest reveal proves those speculations right. By opting for an exclusive and low-key ceremony, Temi and Mr Eazi have been praised for staying true to their personalities while keeping one of life’s most important moments sacred. Fans Celebrate the Couple’s New Journey Following the release of the wedding photos, both Temi and Mr Eazi’s social media pages have been flooded with congratulatory messages, admiration, and heartfelt wishes from fans, friends, and fellow celebrities. Many expressed joy at witnessing the union of two highly respected figures in Nigerian entertainment and business. The marriage of Temi Otedola and Mr Eazi marks not only the union of two lovebirds but also the blending of two powerful worlds—entertainment and business. Their story continues to inspire young people who value love, privacy, and authenticity in today’s celebrity-driven world.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fully embrace electronic voting and real-time transmission of results ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking in Owerri, Imo State, on September 5, 2025, during an interactive session titled “Moving Forward Together,” El-Rufai emphasized that Nigeria could no longer justify the use of outdated systems vulnerable to human interference and manipulation. The former governor referenced Kaduna State’s successful local government elections held in 2018 and 2021, where electronic voting was used effectively. According to him, this experience proves that the process is both practical and achievable nationwide if INEC commits to it. He stressed that the electoral body has more than enough time to deploy the required infrastructure before the 2027 polls. Quoting El-Rufai: “Why can’t we, as a nation, finally say goodbye to electoral malpractice by adopting electronic voting and real-time transmission of results directly to collation centers without interference? There is no compelling argument or barrier that should prevent Nigeria from implementing this system for the 2027 elections.” El-Rufai further explained that electronic voting machines could be designed to: He argued that such technology would not only strengthen democracy but also significantly reduce electoral malpractice, thereby restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process. Recalling his tenure as governor, El-Rufai noted that his party lost control of certain local councils through electronic voting but still respected the outcome. This, he said, shows that political will is the only major obstacle standing in the way of national adoption. In his words, adopting full electronic voting and transmission of results by 2027 would signal a decisive step toward transparent, credible, and democratic elections in Nigeria.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has openly criticized Nigerian politicians for consistently abandoning the principles of federalism once they assume office, despite heavily campaigning on it beforehand. Speaking on Friday during an interactive session in Owerri, Imo State, El-Rufai stressed that Nigeria was historically established as a federation but has since drifted away from that foundation. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu built much of his political career on the advocacy for restructuring and true federalism. Similarly, the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), made several campaign promises to restructure the country and return Nigeria to genuine federalist practices. El-Rufai expressed disappointment that successive administrations continue to embrace a centralized, unitary system, which, according to him, stifles growth and undermines national development. “This country was founded as a federation, but it appears that there are very few genuine federalists in Nigeria. Recent political experiences suggest that federalism is usually promoted by those seeking power, only to be discarded once they achieve their ambitions,” El-Rufai remarked in his presentation titled ‘Moving Forward Together’. He emphasized that during Nigeria’s First Republic, federalism was instrumental in fostering inter-ethnic harmony, strengthening democratic stability, and driving socio-economic development. However, he blamed the shift towards centralization in the 1970s for weakening these achievements and creating long-term challenges. According to El-Rufai, the Federal Government has accumulated excessive powers and resources, yet struggles to perform effectively. He insisted that more responsibilities must be devolved to state governments, particularly in sensitive areas such as policing and security. While acknowledging the progress made through the 2023 constitutional amendment, which moved electricity generation and railway operations to the concurrent legislative list—thereby granting states authority to establish and regulate entities in those sectors—El-Rufai stressed that more reforms are urgently needed. He pointed to the 2018 APC Committee on True Federalism, which he chaired, as a roadmap for deeper constitutional changes that would restore balance between the federal and state governments. “As we move forward together, we should aim to be a nation driven by merit, always putting our best forward to meet the urgent demand for economic growth and sustainable development,” El-Rufai concluded.
Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, former Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria and current Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, has criticized Nigeria’s fight against corruption, stating that many countries without specialized anti-graft bodies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) are doing far better than Nigeria on the global corruption perception index. Cleric’s Position on Leadership and Corruption Speaking in Abuja at the 23rd Bi-annual Leadership Lecture organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD/KAS) and during the graduation ceremony of its Leadership School, Rev. Fr. Ehusani noted that Nigeria’s problem goes beyond the existence of anti-corruption agencies. According to him, the real challenge lies in the leadership recruitment process, which consistently produces political figures with questionable integrity. He emphasized that the system frequently throws up “crooked and devious characters,” including ethnic bigots, religious extremists, and opportunists who exploit Nigeria’s divisions for personal gain. The cleric stated: “Until we address this fundamental error and correct the perception of political leadership and recruitment processes, no matter how many anti-corruption agencies or crusaders we create, they will not transform Nigeria’s fortunes.” Nigeria’s Systemic Crisis and Political Failures Fr. Ehusani further described Nigeria as a nation in a state of paralysis and warned that the country is on the brink of disintegration. He attributed this decline to decades of misrule by what he called a “thoughtlessly corrupt, nepotistic, lawless, and incompetent elite class” since independence and especially after the first military coup in 1966. He criticized leaders who deliberately exploit ethnic rivalries and religious sentiments for political gain while habitually looting public funds at the expense of ordinary citizens. According to him, these behaviors render the masses impoverished and hopeless, undermining national unity and stability. Comparing Nigeria With Other Nations Without EFCC or ICPC The cleric highlighted that several nations without multiple anti-graft institutions perform better in curbing corruption. In these countries, the regular police and judicial systems are enough to investigate, prosecute, and conclude corruption cases swiftly. He contrasted this with Nigeria, which has created multiple agencies—Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), ICPC, EFCC, Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Public Complaints Commission, and the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation—yet still lags behind in effectively reducing corruption. Fr. Ehusani stressed that multiplying agencies without addressing leadership failure and governance culture will continue to hinder Nigeria’s development.
The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of eight personnel of the Corps by heavily armed gunmen suspected to be kidnappers in Edo State on Friday. In an official statement released by the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Afolabi Babawale, the Commandant General directed the Edo State Commandant and senior management officers to immediately visit the grieving families of the fallen operatives to deliver condolences on behalf of the Corps. Prof. Audi expressed his deepest sympathy to the bereaved families and emphasized that their loved ones, who paid the supreme price in the line of duty, would be laid to rest with full ceremonial honour and befitting burial rites befitting national heroes. Recognition of Sacrifice and Commitment The NSCDC leader noted that the sacrifice, loyalty, and patriotism demonstrated by the slain personnel will never be forgotten, stressing that their legacy will remain a source of inspiration for their colleagues. He further assured that the Corps would shoulder the medical expenses of officers currently undergoing intensive care treatment, ensuring that they receive the best medical attention to aid quick recovery. While acknowledging the tragic loss, Prof. Audi maintained that the incident would not weaken the Corps’ resolve to carry out its statutory duty of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure across the country. Warning Against False Reports The Commandant General urged the Nigerian public to disregard fabricated and exaggerated reports being circulated in some quarters about the incident. He reiterated his full commitment to the welfare, safety, and morale of NSCDC officers and men, assuring them that their dedication and sacrifices are highly valued. Collaboration with Security Agencies Prof. Audi commended the collaboration of other security agencies that have been working closely with the Corps in combing the forests where the kidnappers are believed to be hiding. He explained that these joint operations are aimed at securing the release of the abducted expatriate and ensuring that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are apprehended and brought to justice. What Transpired on September 5, 2025 Providing clarity on the events, Audi explained that on Friday, September 5, 2025, a heavily armed gang of kidnappers launched a deadly ambush on NSCDC operatives attached to BUA Cement Company, Okpella, in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. The operatives, who were deployed to safeguard expatriates working at the company, came under a surprise attack during a routine security patrol. The ambush tragically claimed the lives of eight gallant NSCDC officers, left four personnel critically injured, one expatriate missing, while four other expatriates were successfully rescued. He emphasized that the Corps remains unshaken in its resolve to defend Nigeria’s critical infrastructure and condemned in the strongest terms the act of violence that led to the death of the officers. Prof. Audi concluded by reassuring Nigerians that the NSCDC will continue to intensify efforts, in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, to root out kidnappers and restore peace and security in Edo State and beyond.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has declared that once the November 8 governorship election is concluded, his administration will shift focus to tackling the menace of certificate forgery in the state. The governor made this known in Awka during the weekend while speaking at the official inauguration of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Governorship Campaign Council. He stressed that Anambra cannot afford to allow fraudulent practices such as forged academic qualifications to continue unchecked. According to Soludo, a running mate to a governorship candidate from a major political party is allegedly parading a fake PhD certificate, an act he described as deceitful and damaging to society. He warned that such fraudulent claims mislead the youth into believing that academic success can be bought rather than earned through genuine hard work and dedication. Although he refrained from mentioning the name of the individual or political party involved, the governor maintained that such acts undermine the values of education and morality. He linked the issue of fake certificates to the same moral decay that drove him to launch a campaign against fake native doctors in Anambra State. “We cannot continue to allow this kind of deception in our society. If you want a degree or a PhD, you must work for it. Buying certificates from unrecognized institutions confuses our young people and sets a terrible example,” Soludo stated. He explained further that during the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) form submission process, candidates are required to list their qualifications. However, this particular running mate only declared a school certificate and a PhD—without evidence of a diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in between. Investigations, according to Soludo, revealed that the so-called doctorate degree was obtained from a non-accredited foreign institution that sells certificates for as low as $60. He emphasized that such an institution lacks recognition from both the United States accrediting bodies and Nigeria’s National Universities Commission (NUC). Soludo argued that honesty would have been better:“If the running mate had simply declared a school certificate and backed it up with a court affidavit, it would have been acceptable. But jumping from a school certificate to a PhD from nowhere is unacceptable.” The governor reiterated his commitment to sanitizing the system, noting that his administration had already declared war on fake native doctors who defraud people with false promises of wealth. After the election, he said, a similar decisive action would be taken against certificate forgers across the state. “After the November 8 election, we will extend the fight to those parading fake academic qualifications. The work of rebuilding Anambra requires truth, morality, and discipline. We will not shy away from this responsibility,” Soludo concluded.
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, is currently facing mounting public criticism and growing political tension after a viral video surfaced in which he openly admitted to knowing the hideouts of bandits terrorizing the state but expressed helplessness in confronting them. The governor’s comments have not only ignited outrage among Nigerians but also triggered calls for his resignation. Governor Dauda Lawal’s Viral Admission In the undated video clip, the governor, speaking in Hausa language, lamented that despite purchasing 150 operational vehicles for security agencies across Zamfara, he lacked the constitutional authority to direct their deployment. According to him, all security directives come exclusively from Abuja. The governor further disclosed that he possesses advanced tracking devices capable of monitoring the daily movements of the armed bandits. He went on to insist that if he had direct control over the security operatives, the crisis could be resolved within just two months. Analysts and Critics React Strongly Governor Lawal’s comments have been widely described as reckless, self-indicting, and deeply troubling, particularly given that Zamfara receives billions of naira in monthly security votes. Security analysts and political observers argue that with such financial resources and constitutional backing, a sitting governor cannot credibly claim helplessness in protecting his citizens from mass killings and abductions. A source close to security agencies described the governor’s remarks as “not only irresponsible but also a slap in the face of both Nigerians and the security forces risking their lives.” The source added that Governor Lawal’s confession highlighted a disturbing failure of leadership. Accusations of Negligence in Zamfara Critics allege that if the governor truly has intelligence on the whereabouts of criminal elements but has failed to formally provide such details to the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), or the military, then he bears responsibility for the bloodshed. They argue that it is unacceptable for a governor who enjoys a well-funded security vote and moves with a heavily armed convoy to tell citizens he knows where their killers are but can do nothing. This, they said, is not only an indictment on his leadership but also an insult to victims who live in fear daily. Zamfara: Epicenter of Banditry in Nigeria Zamfara State has become the epicenter of banditry in Nigeria, with rural communities suffering constant attacks. Government records confirm repeated raids and mass kidnappings by armed groups across the region. On August 23, gunmen launched an assault on Gamdum Mallam and Ruwan Rana villages in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, killing two residents and abducting more than 100 people. Earlier in the same month, heavily armed assailants invaded Kauran Namoda, leaving behind 24 corpses, 16 wounded villagers, and over 140 kidnapped victims. These relentless attacks have left communities traumatized, pleading for help and protection, as many fear they are now at the mercy of ruthless killers. Expert Opinion on the Viral Remarks Dr. Usman Shehu, a Kaduna-based conflict researcher, strongly condemned the governor’s statement. He described it as “reckless at best and complicit at worst.” According to him, when a governor admits to knowing the locations of bandits yet declares himself powerless, he not only undermines the constitution but also demoralizes security operatives already working under dangerous conditions. The viral video has therefore deepened distrust in governance while fueling debates over accountability, the misuse of security votes, and the urgent need for effective leadership in addressing banditry in Northern Nigeria.
Tension engulfed Garko Local Government Area of Kano State on Friday, September 5th, 2025, after a violent mob stormed the Garko Police Division, leaving one person dead and several others injured. According to an official statement issued on Saturday by the Kano State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, the unrest was triggered by the alleged killing of a resident in Wudil area. The police confirmed that three suspects linked to the killing had earlier been arrested by operatives of the Wudil Area Command and taken to the Garko Police Division for interrogation. How the Mob Attack Unfolded The statement explained that while officers were interrogating the three suspects in custody, a large crowd of youths armed with sticks, stones, and other dangerous objects gathered at the station. They were protesting the death of the victim and attempted to forcibly gain access to the suspects with the intent of lynching them. The crowd, however, turned violent, disrupting police operations and causing extensive destruction within the station. Among the damages recorded were: Injuries and Casualties Recorded The violent confrontation led to the injury of three police officers who were immediately rushed to Wudil General Hospital for medical treatment. Reports confirmed that they are responding positively to treatment. Unfortunately, during the chaos, tragedy struck when a burning tyre exploded and hit one of the front-line attackers. The individual died instantly, while three other members of the mob sustained serious injuries. Police Response and Arrests The Commissioner of Police for Kano State swiftly mobilized reinforcements and ordered immediate containment measures. These included community stakeholder engagements and rapid response deployments that successfully restored calm and prevented further escalation. In the aftermath of the unrest, security operatives arrested nine suspects in connection with the mob action. The Police Command also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to track down other individuals who played active roles in the violent protest. The Kano State Police Command urged residents to remain law-abiding and assured the public that justice will be served regarding the killing that initially sparked the protest.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has fulfilled a remarkable promise by appointing Oluwatosin Adejumo, a well-known puff-puff vendor in Osogbo, as one of the official chefs at the Government House. The announcement was made by the governor on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he described Adejumo as “the puff-puff seller turned Government House chef.” The gesture has since sparked widespread conversations online, with many describing it as an inspiring example of how dedication and resilience can lead to unexpected opportunities. Adejumo is not just an ordinary street vendor. She holds a Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) and has also undergone professional catering training. Her journey to this appointment began during a recent labour rally in Osogbo, where organised labour unions declared their support for Governor Adeleke’s administration and endorsed his re-election bid. At the rally, the governor noticed Adejumo selling puff-puff among the crowd. In a show of support, Adeleke purchased her entire tray of puff-puff for ₦50,000 and requested his aides to take her details. This chance encounter marked the turning point that would later secure her a place in the Government House kitchen staff. Governor Adeleke explained that the decision to appoint Adejumo was in fulfillment of the promise he made during the rally. In his words: “A few days ago, I met Ms. Oluwatosin Adejumo during the rally where organised labour, in collaboration with other unions, endorsed the work we are doing and declared support for my re-election. Today, I fulfilled that promise by officially presenting her appointment letter as one of our Government House chefs.” The governor further revealed that beyond the job appointment, he has also granted Adejumo a scholarship up to the Master’s degree level should she choose to continue her education. He described her story as a strong reminder that “hard work and dedication never go unnoticed.” The video shared on the governor’s official page captured the entire moment — from when he bought Adejumo’s puff-puff to their conversation about her catering skills, which eventually led to her employment. The development has since been praised by citizens as an uplifting story of hope, recognition, and empowerment. Governor Adeleke emphasized that his administration is determined to continue identifying and promoting talent wherever it exists. Adejumo’s story now stands as a motivational example to many youths across Osun State and beyond, proving that opportunities can come from unexpected places.
A well-known civil rights advocacy body, the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNRO), has appealed to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently implement measures aimed at decongesting correctional facilities across the state. The call was made by the group’s lead activist, Comrade Victor Ojei, popularly known as Wong Box, through a statement issued in Warri and made available to journalists. According to Ojei, the Delta State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 2022 provides a legal framework that encourages a shift in the justice system from being largely punitive to more reformative and rehabilitative. This law empowers judges and magistrates to apply non-custodial sentencing options, ensuring that individuals convicted of minor offences are not unnecessarily sent to prison. He explained further that alternatives such as community service and probation are effective mechanisms to reduce the burden on prisons, while also enabling offenders to reform positively outside correctional facilities. Ojei emphasized that such alternatives prevent minor offenders from being exposed to hardened criminals, a situation that often worsens crime rates and increases repeat offending. The activist highlighted another key provision of the law, which is the Prerogative of Mercy—also known as clemency, state pardon, or amnesty. He stated that this constitutional tool remains an important instrument for governors to decongest overcrowded custodial centres by granting pardon to deserving inmates, particularly those convicted of minor or first-time offences. Ojei urged Governor Oborevwori to demonstrate political will by activating the following steps without delay: He stressed that such actions would not only reduce overcrowding but also align with the broader objectives of the criminal justice reform agenda—promoting fairness, rehabilitation, and efficiency. According to the YNRO, these measures will help restore justice and humanity to the penal system in Delta State, ensuring that correctional facilities serve their true purpose of reformation rather than becoming overcrowded punitive centres.

