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Mohammed Hayatu-Deen urges opposition unity for 2027 elections to counter Nigeria's challenges
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, a presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress, has called for unity among opposition leaders ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections. Speaking at a national opposition summit in Ibadan, Oyo State, hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde, Hayatu-Deen warned that continued fragmentation among opposition parties could weaken their ability to offer a credible alternative to the ruling party. He emphasized that Nigeria's worsening security, economic hardship, and shrinking democratic space necessitate a coordinated national response. Hayatu-Deen stated that the country is at a critical juncture, requiring collective action rather than isolated efforts. He cautioned that disunity would prolong the suffering of ordinary Nigerians and reinforce the political status quo. He urged political actors to demonstrate real sacrifice, collaboration, and a shared national purpose, prioritizing national interest over personal ambition and party loyalty. Hayatu-Deen reaffirmed his commitment within the ADC to build a broad coalition focused on improving security, stabilizing the economy, and restoring confidence in democratic governance. The summit included prominent figures such as Governor Makinde, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, with Hayatu-Deen also consulting with Professor Jerry Gana and Kashim Imam.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has condemned what he described as coordinated attacks by political thugs in various parts of the state, including Ile-Ife, Ede, and Osogbo. In a statement released on Tuesday, Governor Adeleke called the violence unacceptable, emphasizing that no political ambition justifies the suffering of innocent citizens. He urged President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies to intervene and restore order. The Governor also called on state political leaders, including former Governor Gboyega Oyetola and APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji, to restrain their supporters, warning that continued provocations could destabilize the state. Governor Adeleke stated that he personally visited affected communities and victims receiving treatment at Osun State Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, and Cottage Hospital, Ede, including the Osogbo Accord Party chairman who survived a gunshot attack. He assured residents that his administration would support victims and directed security agencies to conduct a full investigation to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice, regardless of political affiliation. Governor Adeleke stressed that political differences should not lead to violence and urged residents to remain calm, noting that additional security measures have been deployed in vulnerable areas.
Residents of Ile Oluji in Ondo State have invested over N1.3 billion in community development projects without government assistance, according to High Chief Johnson Fagbamiye, the Lisa of Ile Oluji Kingdom. These projects, funded entirely by communal efforts and contributions, include the installation of a 10MVA transformer to enhance electricity supply, which cost approximately N750 million including installation, despite the transformer itself being a N200 million donation. Other initiatives to be inaugurated during the 10th coronation anniversary of Oba Olufadero Adetimehin include two blocks of two-story student hostels with 40 self-contained rooms for the Federal Polytechnic, Ile Oluji, and eight blocks of modern agricultural and livestock market stalls. The community also supports ongoing road projects and an annual scholarship scheme for brilliant and indigent students from 14 public schools. The anniversary celebration will feature various events, including a carnival, youth empowerment programs, cultural exhibitions, and the distribution of cocoa seedlings to farmers.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has refuted claims that federal lawmakers determine their own allowances, stating that the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission RMAFC sets salaries and official vehicle entitlements for members of the National Assembly. Bamidele's comments follow a court ruling that declared the National Assembly's N110 billion spending on SUVs and allowances unlawful. The Federal High Court in Lagos ruled that N40 billion for 465 vehicles and N70 billion in support allowances for new members violated procurement laws, constitutional obligations, and public trust. The court also mandated the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, to ensure future procurements comply with due process. Bamidele defended the allowances, explaining that lawmakers do not set their own remuneration and that public misconceptions arise from a lack of understanding of how these are structured. He added that resources for vehicles and other allowances are primarily for constituency and legislative duties, not personal benefits, and called for greater transparency in public office holders' remunerations to improve public understanding.