2027: Itsekiri Group Pushes Alliance With Urhobo, Ijaw For Common Interest

 The Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition has called for a united political front among Itsekiri people across Delta and Edo states, stressing that collective action is critical to their political survival and relevance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group said the political challenges confronting the Itsekiri ethnic nationality since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 have largely stemmed from structural imbalances, including ward delineation, minority status in several local government areas, and contested electoral arrangements in the Warri axis.

Addressing journalists, National Coordinator of the group, Prince Collins Edema, noted that despite the widespread presence of Itsekiri communities beyond Warri, their political strength has been weakened by fragmentation and lack of coordinated engagement across Delta Central, Delta South, and Edo State.

He explained that the coalition was formed to bridge this gap by bringing all Itsekiri communities under one umbrella, ensuring that their collective interests are represented in political negotiations and electoral processes across the affected regions.

Edema said, “Our people are spread across multiple local governments where we exist as minorities. Without a united front, our voices will continue to be drowned. This coalition is about political survival, equity, and ensuring that our presence translates into real representation.”

On inter-ethnic relations, the group extended a hand of fellowship to neighbouring ethnic nationalities, particularly the Urhobo and Ijaw, insisting that cooperation, rather than conflict, would yield better outcomes for all parties involved.

“We want to make it clear that we have more in common with the Urhobo and Ijaw than what divides us. It is time to move away from suspicion and rivalry and embrace fairness, mutual respect, and genuine brotherhood in the interest of sustainable development.”

While reaffirming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ahead of 2027, the coalition maintained that it is still consulting on candidates for key legislative positions, vowing to back individuals who align with the broader interests and unity of the Itsekiri people.

Poll projects Imole boss, Adeyanju as winner of Ondo North 2027

A General Election Perception Survey for Ondo North Senatorial District 2027, has projected the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Imole Progressive Network (IPN), Engr. Michael Abayomi Adeyanju, as the most popular candidate in the area.

The survey was conducted by the Research and Public Opinion Unit of PenPlus Online Media Publishers (PenPlus Stat Index).

The public opinion poll which was conducted in the month of February, was to assess voters’ awareness of their elected representatives, perception of their performance, and early political preferences ahead of the 2027 general elections, across the three Senatorial Districts (Ondo North, Ondo Central and Ondo South) of Ondo state.

The outcome of the survey conducted in Ondo North Senatorial District revealed that Adeyanju remains the people's choice in the area. 

According to the survey, a total of 12,024 respondents participated in the exercise, representing a cross-section of residents including farmers, traders, civil servants, artisans, youths and community stakeholders.

The result of the survey partly reads: “The survey covered all six Local Government Areas and seventy-two political wards in the district. A total of 12,024 respondents participated in the exercise, representing a cross-section of residents including farmers, traders, civil servants, artisans, youths and community stakeholders.

“The findings reveal a very high level of political awareness among voters across the district. All respondents indicated that they are aware of their current representatives at the National Assembly, including the incumbent senator and the three members of the House of Representatives representing the district’s federal constituencies.

However, the survey results show contrasting public perceptions regarding the performance of these representatives.

“A significant 85 percent of respondents rated the performance and impact of the current senator as “very poor.” Respondents cited limited visibility and insufficient constituency-level interventions as key concerns influencing this perception.

In contrast, 45 percent of respondents rated the performance of their members of the House of Representatives as “average.” Across the six LGAs, many respondents pointed to constituency development projects, accessibility of representatives, and grassroots engagement as the major factors shaping their positive evaluation.

“In line with this assessment, 85 percent of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the current senatorial representation and indicated a preference for a change in leadership at the Senate level ahead of the next election cycle.

“The poll also examined early voter preferences regarding potential aspirants for the 2027 Ondo North senatorial contest. 

Among the aspirants mentioned in the survey, 90 percent of respondents indicated that they currently favour Engineer Michael Abayomi Adeyanju (a.k.a. Imole) as their preferred candidate for the senatorial seat.

For the House of Representatives elections, the survey found an average approval rating for the incumbents, in other words, the respondents rated the members’ performances as average.

Overall, the poll highlights that constituency visibility, grassroots engagement, and tangible development initiatives remain key determinants of voter approval in Ondo North Senatorial District.

“The findings provide valuable insights into the current political climate in the district and emerging voter expectations ahead of the 2027 general election.”

The survey captured the number of wards in each local government area like 13 wards in Akoko North-East, 10 wards in Akoko North-West and 11 wards in Akoko South-East. Similarly, it captured 15 wards in Akoko South-West, 12 wards in Ose, and 11 wards in Owo.

“Performance Assessment

Respondents rated the performance of the current Senator as 85% poor, while Members of the House of Representatives received average ratings from 45% of respondents.”

On the satisfaction levels, it says, “The survey found average satisfaction with House of Representatives members but strong dissatisfaction with the Senator representing the district.”

Survey scores Adeyanju high

As for the 2027 election preferences, the survey said, “90 per cent of the respondent’s indicated preference for Engineer Michael Abayomi Adeyanju (a.k.a. Imole) as their preferred candidate for the Ondo North senatorial seat.”

It highlighted its seven key findings to be: High political awareness across all wards, strong dissatisfaction with the current Senator, average-level perception of House of Representatives members, constituency projects strongly influence voter approval and strong early preference for Michael Abayomi Adeyanju for Senate.

In conclusion, the poll result said, “The poll suggests that voters in Ondo North place strong emphasis on visible development projects, accessibility, and grassroots engagement when evaluating elected officials.

A structured questionnaire was administered through face-to-face interviews.”

29 Trending Nigerian Celebrity News Today: Davido, Portable, Regina Daniels, Peter Obi, Police & NDLEA Make Headlines

 DAILY NIGERIAN CELEBRITY NEWS ROUNDUP

Top 29 Trending Stories today in Entertainment, Politics and Crime

Nigeria’s celebrity ecosystem continues to dominate national conversations as musicians, actors, influencers, and politicians make headlines across the country. From viral social media moments to serious legal battles and police operations, today’s news cycle reflects the growing influence of public figures in shaping public discourse.

The intersection of entertainment, politics, and security has become increasingly visible, with celebrities frequently finding themselves involved in national debates, legal controversies, and social media storms.

Below are the 29 biggest celebrity and public figure stories trending across Nigeria today.

1. Abba Kyari Discharged in Asset Declaration Case

Former police intelligence chief Abba Kyari has been discharged by a Federal High Court in Abuja following allegations related to false asset declaration.

The case had drawn national attention because Kyari was once considered one of Nigeria’s most celebrated crime-fighting police officers. However, the prosecution reportedly failed to present sufficient evidence to sustain the charges.

The ruling has sparked mixed reactions across the country. Supporters of the officer say the decision confirms his innocence, while critics argue that the verdict highlights the difficulties Nigeria faces in prosecuting corruption cases involving powerful individuals.

The development has reignited discussions about accountability and transparency within Nigeria’s security institutions.

2. Prince Eke Sparks Political Debate Online

Nollywood actor Prince Eke has triggered intense debate after criticizing supporters of Nigeria’s ruling party on social media.

The actor revealed that he received abusive messages after expressing his political views. He shared screenshots of some of the messages and called for greater political tolerance among Nigerians.

Many fans praised the actor for speaking openly about political intimidation, while critics accused him of fueling unnecessary political tension.

The incident reflects a growing trend where Nigerian celebrities are becoming more vocal about politics and governance issues.

3. Portable and Carter Efe Clash, Police Intervene

Controversial street singer Portable and comedian Carter Efe made headlines after a heated confrontation reportedly occurred at a bar in Ogun State.

Witnesses said the argument escalated quickly, forcing police officers to intervene and invite the parties involved to a nearby police station.

After hours of discussions, the entertainers reportedly settled their differences and agreed to move forward peacefully.

Fans online followed the drama closely, with many questioning whether the dispute was genuine or simply another publicity stunt in Nigeria’s competitive entertainment industry.

 Ned Nwoko Responds to Arrest of Regina Daniels’ Friend

Nigerian senator Ned Nwoko has addressed the arrest of a woman alleged to be a close friend of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels.

According to the senator, the arrest followed allegations that the woman spread false accusations online claiming he assaulted his wife.

Nwoko strongly denied the claims and described them as malicious attempts to damage his family’s reputation.

The case has sparked debate about the growing problem of misinformation and defamatory content circulating on social media platforms.

5. NDLEA Arrests Drug Kingpin Wanted for 15 Years

Nigeria’s anti-drug agency recently announced the arrest of a suspected international drug trafficker who had allegedly been on the run for over a decade.

Officials say the suspect was linked to major drug distribution networks operating across several countries.

The arrest followed a coordinated intelligence operation involving Nigerian authorities and international partners.

Security analysts say the breakthrough demonstrates Nigeria’s increasing cooperation with global law enforcement agencies in tackling organized crime.

6. NDLEA Seizes 1,499 Bottles of Codeine in Kano

In another major operation, the NDLEA intercepted nearly 1,500 bottles of codeine syrup in Kano State.

Authorities say the substance was intended for illegal distribution among young people.

Codeine abuse has become a serious public health problem in Nigeria, with many addiction cases linked to the misuse of pharmaceutical drugs.

Officials say the agency will continue to crack down on networks involved in the illegal drug trade.

7. Edo Police Arrest Doctor Over Illegal Firearm

Police in Edo State have arrested a medical doctor accused of possessing an unauthorized firearm.

Officers reportedly recovered a pistol during an intelligence-driven operation.

Authorities say the arrest highlights the growing concern about illegal weapons circulation among civilians.

Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect may face prosecution if found guilty.

8. Violence Disrupts APC Political Meeting in Ondo

Police have arrested a suspect following violence at a political meeting involving members of the ruling party in Ondo State.

Witnesses said the meeting descended into chaos after rival supporters clashed.

Several individuals were reportedly injured before security officials restored order.

Authorities say investigations are continuing and additional arrests may follow.

9. EFCC Arrests Man for Alleged Naira Abuse

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested a man accused of abusing the Nigerian currency during a birthday celebration.

According to investigators, the suspect sprayed large amounts of naira notes during the event, violating financial regulations.

The EFCC has repeatedly warned Nigerians that mutilating or mishandling the national currency is a punishable offense.

Officials say the crackdown is intended to preserve the dignity of the naira.

10. Peter Obi Criticizes Culture of Celebrating Corruption

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has sparked conversation after stating that Nigeria often celebrates individuals accused of corruption.

Obi argued that societal attitudes toward leadership contribute significantly to the country’s economic challenges.

His comments have generated both praise and criticism across political circles.

Supporters say his remarks reflect the need for accountability, while critics believe the issue is more complex.

11–29 QUICK CELEBRITY HEADLINES

Davido trends online after romantic moment with wife Chioma.

Adekunle Gold and Simi spark debate after viral prophecy.

Fuji musician Malaika linked to actress Sikirat Sindodo in dating rumors.

Chizzy Alichi opens up about motherhood struggles.

Lizzy Anjorin sparks debate with relationship advice.

Actor IK Ogbonna’s alleged sister claims she left music industry due to exploitation.

Kenneth Okonkwo and Rufai Oseni clash during live television debate.

Afrobeats dance challenge reportedly sets global record.

Gospel singer Tope Alabi trends after husband’s romantic gesture.

Fashion designer Veekee James reveals baby’s gender at luxury Dubai event.

Influencer Queen Asoka sparks discussion on cosmetic surgery risks.

Frank Edoho faces backlash over comments on sports betting culture.

Rotimi Salami attends Nollywood premiere with daughter.

TikTok star Peller announces transition into Nollywood acting.

Streaming industry changes may affect Nigerian viewers.

Celebrity tailor Seyi Vodi reacts to political fashion controversy.

Ozonna Soludo trends online after hairstyle transformation.

Social media influencers increasingly speak on politics.

Analysts say celebrity activism could influence future elections.

Awujale’s Timeless Warning to Ijebu Kingmakers — Choose Character Over Cash!

 If royalty had a screenplay, this one would open with regal drums, flowing agbadas, and a monarch whose wisdom echoed louder than any palace gong. As Ijebuland prepares for the sequel — the selection of its next Awujale and Paramount Ruler — the spotlight swings back to the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the legendary ruler whose words still roll like a powerful dialogue from a classic epic.

In a scene straight out of a grand cultural spectacle — the 2019 Ojude-Oba Festival — Oba Adetona, who ruled the ancient Ijebu kingdom for over six decades, delivered a message that could well be the tagline of his reign: “Do not crown wealth; crown wisdom.”

Dressed in royal splendor and surrounded by a sea of color, the Awujale warned his kingmakers not to be swayed by moneybags or political heavyweights in choosing his successor. For him, the throne of Ijebuland was never meant for the highest bidder, but for the most capable leader — one with heart, vision, and a true sense of purpose.

“The Awujale’s throne,” he declared, “is not for politicians, not for the rich, not for the flashy. It is for the one who can serve.” Those words, powerful and prophetic, now resonate with renewed emotion as the kingdom stands on the edge of a new chapter.

Installed in 1960, Oba Adetona reigned for more than 65 years — an era of transformation, diplomacy, and cultural pride. He modernized traditional governance without losing the essence of Ijebu identity. His leadership, like a long-running blockbuster, had it all — grace, grit, and a legacy of wisdom.

Now, as the search begins for the next custodian of Ijebuland’s throne, his timeless advice feels like a royal script for those who will decide the future. “Seek divine direction,” he urged the kingmakers, reminding them that Ijebu’s heritage is too sacred to be auctioned to the wealthy or the politically ambitious.

The Ojude-Oba Festival, always a grand fusion of fashion, faith, and festivity, was his favorite stage for truth-telling. Each year, his words would weave through the chants and cheers like a well-written monologue — sharp, soulful, and sincere.

Today, as Ijebuland braces for its next act, many wonder: will the kingmakers follow the late monarch’s direction or be tempted by the glitter of gold?

One thing is certain — Oba Adetona’s message remains as evergreen as any Bollywood epic’s moral: true leadership is not about riches, but about responsibility.

As the curtain rises on a new reign, the kingdom stands at a crossroads — between tradition and temptation, between legacy and luxury. The kingmakers now hold the script. Whether they choose a hero or a hollow crown will determine the next chapter in Ijebuland’s royal saga.

And somewhere, in the echoes of the palace courtyard, the Awujale’s words still linger — a timeless warning, a royal truth.

“ENOUGH IS ENOUGH: Sujimoto to Petition and Sue Over $556K Fraud Smear — ‘Delay Is Not Deceit.”

Accuses Detractors of False and Malicious Publications

“There is no fraud, nor any falsehood. What exists is a delay and nothing more. Yet from this delay, some have chosen to fabricate lies, weaponize rumors, and maliciously mislead the public. Let it be clear: those responsible for instigating and spreading these defamatory claims will be held fully accountable, legally, morally, and shall pay for every damage they have caused.”

When an entrepreneur dares to build what has never been done before, he must first make peace with the storms that come to test his conviction. But to mistake delay for deceit is not only false — it is dangerous to truth itself. For twelve unbroken years, Sujimoto has chosen the harder path: rejecting shortcuts, defying cynicism, and building brick by brick through sleepless nights, sacrifice, and an unyielding faith that Africa deserves architecture that inspires.

The Leonardo by Sujimoto remains one of the continent’s most daring and technically sophisticated luxury developments. Ambition that vast cannot be rushed; its clock is governed not only by concrete and cranes, but by bureaucracy, tedious approvals, and an economy that shifts and strains with every policy change. No one was duped. No one was misled. Our client acted in good faith, approvals were secured last year, and though the project slowed, it was never denied, abandoned, or defrauded.

Unfortunately, some of our most honest and hard-working customers have requested refunds. Some have been patient, others aggressive — and we have honored them all.

We have never compromised. We have faced countless challenges, yet our commitment to integrity remains absolute. Beyond fulfilling contracts, we have helped our customers maximize profits through off-take agreements. Take Giuliano, for example: the first buyer purchased at ₦285 million. Today, less than six years later, the project is worth ₦2.5 billion. Rent now commands ₦100 million, fully booked and fully sold out.

When cement skyrocketed from ₦2,000 to ₦10,000, who absorbs the cost? We do. The buyer does not want to hear this, yet it is reality. During construction, steel surged from ₦500,000 to ₦1.3 million and we did not compromise. A single 40-foot container cost ₦4 million and later ₦24 million. Still, we refused shortcuts. Every brick, every beam, every detail has been delivered with integrity, despite the market’s relentless squeeze.

Every investor has been engaged directly, and those requesting refunds are being settled through a transparent, structured, and verifiable process. Meanwhile, the Lucrezia — once slowed by the same economic headwinds that rattled an entire industry — now stands on the brink of completion, set for delivery in December 2025, with every fully paid homeowner poised to receive their keys. 

It is deeply concerning that public institutions are now being misused to settle civil disputes and punish enterprises. What should have remained a private contractual matter has been paraded as crime, turning law enforcement into debt collectors. Sujimoto is pursuing firm legal redress against those behind these malicious falsehoods, and those responsible shall pay for the damages they have caused.

Sujimoto is not merely a company; it is a creed — a fellowship of architects, artisans, and engineers bound by a shared pursuit of excellence. We have empowered thousands, paid over ₦7 billion in wages in the past 12 years, and built monuments that speak where falsehood falls silent.

In a nation where haste is mistaken for progress and ambition for arrogance, it has become easy to weaponize delay. Yet progress, like justice, is slow only to those who lack patience. Our only “crime” is daring to dream beyond the comfort zone of ordinary builders — and for that, we shall never apologise.

Some may not like Sujimoto — his relentless ambition, his boldness, his refusal to follow the ordinary. Some may call him loud, too forward, even audacious. Yet no one can deny his work. His projects speak for themselves — unmatched in vision, execution, and impact. To question the man is human; to question the monument he builds is impossible. 

Sujimoto does not build for applause. We build for permanence. And when The Leonardo finally rises — not if, but when — it will stand as a monument to truth: proof that audacious vision outlives the noise, and that gold is forged only through fire.

Dr. Sijibomi Ogundele is the Group Managing Director of Sujimoto Holdings, the Czar of Luxury RealEstate Development, and the mastermind developer behind the renowned Giuliano. Our other audacious projects, such as the most sophisticated building in Banana Island, LucreziaBySujimoto, the grandiose Sujimoto Twin Tower, the tallest twin towers in Africa; the regal Queen Amina by Sujimoto, a monument to royal affluence; the magnificent high-rise LeonardoBySujimoto; the Sujimoto Farm; an advanced farm estate system that incorporates housing, farm hospitals, hotels, and markets within an ecosystem, creating opportunities for agro-tourism and affordable housing., among other projects that have etched an indelible imprint on Nigeria’s skylines, a testament to Sujimoto’s unrivalled mastery of modern-day engineering.

PINL's Security Strategy Fuels Gas Production Surge to 7.59 Bscf

 Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has revealed that its community-focused security model has directly employed over 35,000 youths from the Niger Delta. This initiative is being credited as a key factor behind a significant rise in national gas production, which reached 7.59 billion standard cubic feet per day (Bscf) in July 2025.

The production figure, confirmed by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), marks an 8.58% increase from the 6.99 Bscf recorded in 2024. The NUPRC also reported a simultaneous decline in gas flaring, underscoring a drive towards increased efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager of Community Relations and Stakeholders Engagement at PINL, announced the employment milestone during a monthly stakeholders meeting in Port Harcourt. He stated that by expanding its surveillance mandate beyond the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) to include other critical assets and gas lines in the Eastern Corridor, the company has created thousands of jobs.

"With the recent deployment of additional workers due to the expanded scope, PINL provides direct employment to over 35,000 youths across the Niger Delta," Dr. Mezeh said. He applauded the Federal Government's commitment to mitigating unemployment through such initiatives and urged other tiers of government to provide more opportunities for youths in the region.

Dr. Mezeh reported a successful operational scorecard for the past month, including zero infractions on the TNP, uninterrupted operations, and a drop in crude oil losses to a 16-year low. He attributed this success to collaboration with host communities, despite foiling attempted breaches in Bonny and Eleme and prosecuting suspects in other areas.

Stakeholders from host communities praised PINL's impact. Engr. Orr Sunday Orr, Eleme Coordinator of the Ogoni Oil and Gas Host Communities Youths Forum, stated that vandalism and oil theft have drastically reduced since PINL's involvement.

"We hereby pass a vote of confidence on PINL as the company with the right strategy," Orr said.

Echoing this sentiment, Comrade Emeni Ibe, President-General of Orashi People's Congress, commended PINL for changing the narrative on unemployment. "If other companies had done what PINL is doing, cases of pipeline vandalism would have been a thing of the past," Ibe stated.

Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo Should Face Investigation Before Pursuing Ondo Political Ambitions in 2027/2029 By ABANIKANDA OLUMORO (UK)

In the today's life of Nigeria, what has become the bane of public confidence in rising up to demand and fight for justice is the fear of powers that be or orders from the above. These and others of these are usually synonymous to what was generally described as corruption as it affects "politics, governance, probity, religion and corrupt behaviour in Nigeria".

Moving forward from that description, which is the major takeaway from an international conference on anti-corruption organised by University of Lagos' Faculty of Social Sciences in collaboration with Pan-Africana Strategic Group (PANAFSTRAG) and Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), held on Thursday September 18, 2025 in UNILAG, LAGOS, one can conveniently tag the problem of Nigeria or any of the 36 federating units and federal capital territory that form the amalgamated entity to failure and conspiracy of silence on the part of those who know what, why, where, when, who and how (the Five Ws and H) about why the country is drifting further and eagerly down to the pit of disaster.

Because some of the citizens have continued and will continue to insist on what is right, they have been coming up and around sensitizing both the nation and the international community tv on how 2027 of Nigeria's democratic politics, if well articulated and sincerely managed, has embedded in it the turnaround mechanism that is wired to change things for good. Otherwise, like the academic and civil society speakers at that UNILAG's conference posited, the nation will pass that general elections moving around the same circle and will still be unable to achieve anything.

Moving forward, the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is currently the political party for the ruling class in the country, should not go into that period of 2027 general elections or 2029 solo (governorship) election in any state particularly Ondo State with backlog of unaddressed corruption allegations hanging against the neck of any politician. Failure to heed this true-but-bitter point of order will not only cost the party its electoral success but also push it into extinction unable to recover.

Ondo State is particularly on mind in this article because it is one of two states that some of us the concerned diasporans are traditionally attached and emotionally committed to, with Ekiti being the other. If we the Nigerians in the Diaspora really mean anything to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as seen in his passionate call for us to return home and join him to build Nigeria, he should as a matter of commitment with all its required urgency look into these issues being raised in this write-up.

This is for him to ensure that his Minister of the Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, much as it is within his right to aspire to elective offices as a citizen, should not be allowed anywhere near contesting for either of the two important political offices he seeks in 2027 (Senate) and 2029 (governorship) let alone the political strategism he is alleged to be using the institutions of state to map currently without answering - in an open investigation by independent people of tested and impeccable character - all the known questions bothering on allegations of corruption and abuse of powers and privileges against him.

Nigerians home and here in the Diaspora, especially we from Ondo/Ekiti axis living abroad, have been inundated with some of these unaddressed allegations from his role as Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) through the Beta Edu saga and now what remains circulating as remours about how comptroller or controller and commandant generals of Nigeria Immigration (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NoS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) under the purview of him as Minister of the Interior have been irrelevant in the process for the screening, assessment and recruitment of freshers into the services.

The questions about "Honourable Minister Please Off Your Mic" remain with Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, fondly called BTO, as to why should Honourable Minister of Niger Delta, who had come to expose how some Nigerians in political offices and the National Assembly crippled the NDDC with unholy contracts and undue privileges they enjoyed and the NDDC committee he headed had nothing to say than to shut down the Minister by switching off his microphone.

Although the same minister in Buhari Administration, highly respectable then, has himself become entangled - the way it seems - in the captivating "demons of power corridor" (to borrow from the words of Dr. Reuben Abati) now as senate president under the Tinubu's Federal Government, why he was asked to "off" his microphone at that time should make aspiration for higher political offices impossible right for BTO to enjoy untill the undoubtful answer is duly provided to those questions, through public investigative process.

Again, much as it is nauseating how some prolific writers among columnists and journalists in the Nigerian media as well as some civil society organisations (known or unknown) have written and issues press releases to shield BTO from being investigated on allegations against him in the Beta Edu saga implicating him for awarding contract to himself in matter of humanitarian funds, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo should be made to forget his ambition of becoming Ondo North senatorial candidate in 2027 talk less that he will be going further from that to becoming the APC governorship candidate in 2029. All the political influences that determine who emerge as candidates (and this is also shameful as emergence of candidates should be through open-ended free, fair and credible primary election) should beware of antics of this Tinubu's minister mingles his way through them to emerge.

He can seek such opportunity to contest only when he submits himself to transparent investigation answering questions on why his company he formerly owned - but now his wife is part of - should accept money running into hundreds of million naira in contract from the same government he serves. This done, leaving out all the media noise blocking his investigation and even some calling for arrest of anyone so alleging.

He should also answer to why Nigerians would only be seen to apply to be recruited into Immigration, Prisons Service and Civil Defence but running into over one year, nothing is heard, yet rumour keeps flying around that the minister is the one handling recruitments, promotions and even postings in these services with their heads now having their hearts and livers tied to the political whims and caprices of the politician.

Let it be clear: this article is not an outright conviction of Mr. Tunji-Ojo. Rather, it is a serious demand — that until he submits himself to transparent, credible investigation and clears his name, he should have no place in the race for Senate or governorship in Ondo State come 2027 and 2029, respectively.

If the APC fails to enforce this standard of integrity, the consequences will be grave, unpredictable, and damaging — not only for the party but for Nigeria’s fragile democracy.