The Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is appalled and outraged by the illegal detention of our Union Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun by the Police Area Commander of Zone 2, Abeokuta, ACP Ogundele Olorunwa. This consistent brazen abuse of power and disregard for the rule of law of this supposed senior police officer is unacceptable and demands immediate attention by the higher authorities of the force.

The Council Secretary, while engaging in efforts to restore sanity around our Council Secretariat last night, an area that has unfortunately become overrun by individuals, especially ladies of the night (Olosho), engaging in activities that undermine the dignity of our profession and safety of our community, was detained for hours on Tuesday, October 21st till the wee hours of Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025 by the Area Commander, upon reporting and seeking assistance of the police to arrest a defiant individual, who is equally a lady of low virtue (Olosho), that was continuously causing a nuisance in and around of our Secretariat.

Shockingly, instead of supporting our efforts to maintain law and order, the Area Commander chose to detain our Union Secretary for hours after checking his Facebook account and realized the Secretary used the CDHR story against the Area Commander. He confronted Comrade Adigun, thanking his stars for the opportunity to have his pound of flesh. He immediately ordered his detention, and a written statement, citing an alleged authority that clearly reflects an abuse of power. These actions are a clear example of policing gone wrong, prioritizing personal interests, and aiding and abetting immorality over public safety and the rule of law.

This incident is unacceptable and indicative of a troubling trend within the law enforcement hierarchy. The Nigeria Union of Journalists condemns this act as a blatant violation of the rights of a law-abiding citizen and journalist who was merely fulfilling his duty to uphold the law alongside police officers. While standing firmly against any form of intimidation, harassment, or abuse of authority by law enforcement officials, we discountenance actions that undermine press freedom and the rights of citizens.

Furthermore, we are aware that the Area Commander currently has a pending case before the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, which raises even more alarm about the conduct of individuals in positions of authority. However, this growing number of complaints against the actions of the Area Commander necessitates immediate attention and action to prevent further deterioration of law enforcement’s reputation and conduct within our community.

Though we are reassured by our cordial relationships with other police officers of integrity, especially the State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, as a matter of exigency, we call on the CP himself to take swift action against this errant officer and ensure that justice is served. Ogun NUJ deserves better cooperation from the law enforcement agencies as we strive to sanitize our secretariat.

As a Union, we stand united in solidarity with our Secretary, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, and in advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of our rights as journalists.

We demand immediate investigation into Comrade Adigun’s illegal detention, and a thorough investigation into the Area Commander’s conduct with appropriate attendant actions towards justice.

Equally, we urge the government of Ogun State and other law enforcement agencies to uphold the rights and safety of the media, reaffirm their commitment to press freedom and the safeguarding of journalists’ rights in Ogun State. Any harassment or intimidation against media practitioners must come to an end. We therefore, encourage all media practitioners and members of the public to lend their voices in this crucial matter.

We will not back down until the Area Commander is brought to justice for his abuse of authority.

Signed:

Comrade ‘Wale Olanrewaju,
Chairman, NUJ Ogun State Council.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerian leaders to ensure that youths are included in leadership and national development, stressing that they should be regarded as leaders of today, not just tomorrow.

Obasanjo made the call in Abeokuta on Saturday during the grand reunion and maiden lecture series of the Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS), United Kingdom Alumni Association, Nigerian chapter.

Speaking on the theme, “The Challenges of Youth in a Fractured World,” the former president, represented by the Deputy Director of the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute, Prof. Samuel Daramola, said leaders owe the youth truthful, transparent, transformational, and selfless leadership.

He described youth as a stage of vitality, idealism, hope, and adventure, noting that while the current generation of leaders once experienced such energy and dreams, today’s youth face tougher challenges in a divided and unstable world.

“Some of us were youths immediately after the Second World War. Most of you were youths at the height of the Cold War. The world was not perfect, but there was order and respect for international law,” he said.

Obasanjo observed that global stability and shared prosperity among powerful nations had given developing countries some breathing space in the past, but today’s youth face herculean challenges that must not be left for them to tackle alone.

He urged leaders to invest in the future rather than deplete resources meant for generations to come and emphasised that young people must be integrated into all aspects of family, private, and public life.

“Youth are not leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders today. Let them be part and parcel of leadership today in preparation for tomorrow,” he said.

The association’s president, Maj.-Gen. Oluwaseun Oshinowo (Rtd), said the Nigerian chapter was inaugurated eight years ago and continues to engage in discussions aimed at moving the nation forward.

“Our main aim is to tell the world that we are here and available for whatever they want us to do when it comes to strategic-level discussion and debate,” he said.

In his goodwill message, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama, represented by Mrs Abosede Awolola from the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, described the event as a forum for reflection and renewal among alumni of one of the world’s finest strategic institutions.

Maitama noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to a citizen-focused and economically driven foreign policy.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Olusola Subair, said the breakdown of family values continues to threaten national development and urged stakeholders to help reshape the minds of youths toward productivity.

Top dignitaries join Gov Abiodun to celebrate matriarch of Remoland at 90

It was a day of joy, honour, and thanksgiving in Iperu, Ogun State, as the city came alive to celebrate the 90th birthday of Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Olaitan Abiodun, the beloved mother of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

The occasion drew eminent personalities from all walks of life who gathered to rejoice with the Abiodun family and pay glowing tributes to a woman whose life embodies grace, service, and virtue.

The milestone celebration, held at St. James Anglican Church, Iperu, witnessed an impressive turnout of political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and well-wishers.

Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; and several state governors were also in attendance.

Among the dignitaries present were Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), and Hope Uzodinma (Imo).

Also gracing the occasion were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Senator Ibukunle Amosun, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Chief James Ibori, Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi, Senator Adams Oshiomole, former Speaker Dimeji Bankole. Royal fathers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, led other traditional rulers to honour Mama Abiodun.

As part of the celebrations, the Omoluabi Movement, a socio-political group rooted in good governance and community development hosted a special event in Mama Abiodun’s honour at the expansive Ajadeh Events Centre, Iperu.

The venue filled with over 10,000 members and admirers from across the state, pulsated with joy as renowned gospel-juju maestro, Dr. Yinka Ayefele (OJA), thrilled guests with soul-lifting music.

Convener of the Omoluabi Movement, Mr. Armstrong ’Tope Akintunde, described Mama Victoria Abiodun as a true matriarch, a rare gem, and a blessing to Remoland and Ogun State. Akintunde lauded her decades of nurturing values, faith, and selflessness that have shaped generations.

“It is every parent’s prayer to live long enough to see their children flourish and make them proud. Mama Abiodun has not only witnessed that but has become a living testimony of God’s faithfulness. She is one in a million, a mother to all, whose legacy of kindness and discipline continues to inspire us. We are proud to celebrate her today and always.” – Armstrong said.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Segun Kaka, General Coordinator of the Omoluabi Movement, emphasized that the celebration transcends family ties.

According to him, “This is not just the Abiodun family’s celebration; it is a collective thanksgiving for the life of a woman who represents the very best of our values as a people”.

The atmosphere brimmed with admiration and heartfelt prayers as guests eulogized the nonagenarian for her unwavering faith, community spirit, and commitment to humanity.

Indeed, Mama Victoria Olaitan Abiodun stands tall as a beacon of virtue, her 90 years marked by compassion, courage, and character. Her story remains an inspiration to mothers, leaders, and the younger generation across Ogun State and beyond.

• Oluseun JOSHUA, Abeokuta

The Clementina Legal Aid Philanthropy (CLAP) Foundation is officially set to launch on November 29, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The epoch-making event is expected to attract dignitaries from across the African continent.

CLAP Foundation is poised to bring renewed hope to underprivileged Africans in need of justice. Its mission is to provide free or subsidized legal aid to vulnerable individuals, particularly those who have been wrongfully detained, denied fair representation, or unable to meet bail conditions due to financial hardship.

For many Africans silenced by poverty and trapped in cycles of injustice, CLAP’s inauguration represents the beginning of a new era of hope. The foundation anticipates strong support from local communities, legal practitioners, and international partners as it builds a sustainable movement toward justice and equality across the continent.

Speaking ahead of the event, Solicitor Ayo Modupe, a Trustee and member of the planning committee, said the foundation seeks genuine Africans who are committed to reforming the justice system and championing fairness within society.

He added that the official inauguration would not only transform lives but also create a lasting legacy for those who have contributed to the realization of the initiative.

According to Mr Modupe, the foundation’s ultimate goal is to strengthen the resolve of Africans into doing the right thing, especially within the African justice system.