•Proposes law to criminalise persecution, independent commission to probe attacks, compensate victims

ABUJA, Nigeria

Accord Party presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has told the United States Congress and the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) that protecting every Nigerian’s right to worship freely must become a central pillar of the country’s security and conflict prevention strategy.

In a policy brief submitted ahead of a US House Hearing on Nigeria, Hashim acknowledged the persecution of Christians in parts of the country, including attacks on churches, killings of pastors and destruction of communities. He, however, cautioned against presenting Nigeria’s religious crisis solely as a conflict between Christians and Muslims.

“Christians in northern and central Nigeria face persecution. Churches have been burned, villages destroyed, and pastors killed. This is real.

“But Shia Muslims, minority sects, and Hausa Muslim communities also face persecution and discrimination. Framing Nigeria as Christians versus Muslims divides Nigeria. Framing it as all victims versus violent extremism unites Nigeria,” he said.

Hashim argued that religious freedom should be treated not only as a human rights issue but also as an instrument of conflict prevention and national security.

“When people cannot worship freely, they feel excluded. When killers are not punished, impunity grows. When impunity grows, communities form militias. When militias grow, extremists recruit from them,” he said.

“Protecting a church in Plateau, a Shia mosque in Kaduna and a Hausa cultural centre in Kebbi is how we stop extremism before it takes root.”

Hashim said that, if elected, his administration would develop and implement a National Policy Framework on Religious Freedom for Conflict Prevention and Countering Violent Extremism.

Within its first 90 days, he proposed convening a National Summit involving victims, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Shia leaders, Hausa cultural representatives, women, young people and internally displaced persons.

He also pledged to pursue a National Religious Freedom for Conflict Prevention and Countering Violent Extremism Act within 180 days of assuming office. The proposed legislation, he said, would criminalise religious persecution, hate incitement and forced displacement.

Another proposal is an Independent National Commission, with offices in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, reporting to the National Assembly. Under the proposed arrangement, attacks would be investigated within 30 days, findings made public and victims compensated.

Hashim also proposed establishing a National Guard to protect vulnerable villages, farms, schools and places of worship.

He added that the broader security programme would support the return of displaced people and the rebuilding of destroyed communities, including those in Shanga, Plateau, Benue, Kaduna and Borno.

“This is a Nigerian solution for Nigeria and a model for West Africa and Africa,” he said.

The Accord candidate called on the United States to partner with Nigeria in convening an International Conference on Security in Nigeria and the Sahel within the first 100 days of his presidency, if elected.

The proposed conference would bring together ECOWAS, the African Union, the United States and other international partners to develop a coordinated strategy covering religious freedom, conflict prevention, intelligence sharing, border security and countering violent extremism.

“Nigeria should lead, with the United States as partner. If Nigeria gets this right, West Africa and Africa will follow,” he said.

Hashim linked religious freedom and national security to the credibility of the 2027 general elections, warning that political intimidation, incitement and electoral malpractice could deepen existing divisions.

“Free, fair, transparent and credible elections mean no religious violence, no intimidation, no incitement and no rigging,” he said.

Citing the recent attack on activist and political figure Omoyele Sowore in Ekiti, he warned against allowing political violence to compound the country’s insecurity.

“Election rigging is itself a threat to religious freedom, conflict prevention and human rights. A rigged election does not just steal votes; it steals peace.”

He urged the United States to support Nigeria’s electoral process through sustained engagement, international observation, technical assistance to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and support for civil society.

“This is not a request for America to choose Nigeria’s leader. It is a request for America to help Nigerians choose their own leader, free from religious and political violence, intimidation and rigging,” he said.

Hashim maintained that Nigeria must lead efforts to demonstrate that religious freedom is not a foreign concept but an African value.

“Religious freedom cannot be protected while Boko Haram, ISWAP, Ansaru and bandit terror networks operate with impunity. Countering violent extremism is religious freedom protection,” he concluded.

The Mogaji of Ile Oloro Royal Compound, Oja’gbo, Ibadan, Oloye (Dr.) Victor Oluwatunmise Adeagbo Arole Abodunrin Orowole, heartily congratulates the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North East Local Government, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo, on the joyous occasion of his birthday.

Oloye (Dr.) Oluwatunmise, Adeagbo, a Medical Doctor and a former Medical Officer of Health (MOH) for Lagelu Local Government, describes the celebrant as a distinguished administrator, accomplished personality, visionary leader, and an individual whose commitment to public service and community development continues to make a remarkable impact.

The Mogaji particularly acknowledges the Chairman’s giant strides in the development of Ibadan North East Local Government, noting his dedication to grassroots governance, infrastructural advancement, improved service delivery, and the overall well-being of the people. He observes that his leadership disposition, wealth of experience, and vast knowledge of governance have continued to distinguish him as a leader who understands the demands of effective public administration.

He further commends Hon. Akintayo’s contributions to the health sector, even with the fact that he’s not trained as a medical doctor or health practitioner.

According to him, the Chairman’s vast knowledge and experience provide a valuable perspective to leadership, particularly in understanding the importance of accessible healthcare, quality medical services, preventive healthcare, and the general welfare of the people.

Speaking during the birthday celebration organised in honour of the Chairman at the Local Government Secretariat, the Mogaji eulogised him for his leadership qualities, humility, accessibility, and commitment to the advancement of his constituency. He described his combination of professional expertise and administrative responsibilities as a commendable attribute that deserves recognition and encouragement.

Aare Dr. Adeagbo also emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between traditional institutions, political leaders, and other stakeholders in driving meaningful development at the grassroots level. He expressed confidence that the Chairman would in other capacities continue to build on his achievements as the chairman and contribute positively to the growth and prosperity of Ibadan North East Local Government and Oyo State at large.

While wishing him many more fruitful years in good health, wisdom, strength, and renewed accomplishments, the Mogaji prays that Almighty God will continue to guide his steps, enlarge his capacity for service, and grant him the grace to achieve even greater milestones in life and leadership.

Happy Birthday, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo!

May the years ahead bring greater accomplishments, fulfilment, and more opportunities to serve humanity.

Signed:

Aare Dr. Victor Oluwatunmise Adekunle Adeagbo (Arole Abodunrin Orowole)
Mogaji, Olórò Royal Compound, Oja’gbo, Ibadan.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has confirmed the suspension of four local government chairmen over allegations bordering on gross misconduct and financial impropriety.

The confirmation was disclosed to ODUDUWA NEWS on Wednesday by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin.

According to him, the Assembly has confirmed the suspension of the chairmen of Ogbomoso South, Oriire, Surulere and Iwajowa Local Government Areas.

It would be recalled that this medium had earlier reported the suspension of the affected chairmen by the executive arm following petitions alleging mismanagement of council funds and abuse of office.

He noted that the House will act in line with its constitutional oversight responsibility to ensure accountability and transparency in local government administration.

Adedoyin, representing Ogbomoso South, explained that the suspended chairmen are to be replaced by their respective vice chairmen in acting capacity, pending the outcome of investigations and the final determination of the House through its committee report.

According to him, the relevant House Committee has been mandated to investigate the allegations thoroughly and submit its findings for further legislative action.

As at the time of filing this report, efforts to get reactions from the affected chairmen were unsuccessful.

The Ogun State Government has approved major road construction and rehabilitation projects across the state, alongside the procurement of an advanced Siemens 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine for the Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence.

The approvals were reached during the State Executive Council meeting, according to a statement by the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade.

Among the approved projects are the construction of RCCG New Auditorium Road to One Million Junction in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area and the rehabilitation of sections of Old Ondo Road in Ijebu Ode.

The government also approved the construction of Saje Junction to Elega Road and the reconstruction of the Ajitadun Roundabout–Mokola Underbridge–Elega Junction corridor in Abeokuta North.

In the health sector, the new MRI equipment is expected to improve diagnostic services, facilitate early detection of medical conditions and reduce the need for residents to travel outside the state for advanced medical investigations.

The government said the interventions were aimed at improving transportation, economic activities and access to quality healthcare.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has presented a proposed budget of N1.12 trillion for the 2027 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, with infrastructure receiving the largest allocation of N236.15 billion.

The budget, christened “Sustained Progress,” was presented on Tuesday in Ibadan. Makinde said it was designed to consolidate the achievements of his administration and sustain ongoing development projects across the state.

According to the governor, N670 billion, representing 61 per cent of the proposed expenditure, is earmarked for capital projects, while N444 billion is allocated to recurrent expenditure.

The education sector received the second-highest allocation of N190.6 billion, followed by the health sector with N93.01 billion.

Makinde also disclosed that the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) had increased from N26.95 billion in 2019, when his administration assumed office, to N103.25 billion in 2026.

He further revealed that his administration had facilitated the return of more than 65,000 out-of-school children to the classroom.

The governor defended his administration’s tractorisation policy, including the decision to privatise tractor services, describing it as part of efforts to improve agricultural productivity across the state.

On the recent wave of resignations by political appointees and other officials in his administration, Makinde said he was counting those who had left but maintained that their decisions would not affect his government.

He also disclosed that one of the female officials who resigned had approached him with what he described as an impossible request, adding that she tendered her resignation after he declined the request.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, described the budget presentation as significant, noting that it was the final budget of the Makinde administration.

Ogundoyin said the budget provided an opportunity to consolidate the achievements of the past seven and a half years, sustain ongoing development programmes and strengthen the foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity in Oyo State.

Posters appear across Iwo, Ilesha, Okuku, Ede, Ile-Ife, Osogbo etc

Campaign posters of Accord Party presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, are gaining visibility across Osun State, with displays reported in Iwo, Ilesha, Okuku, Ede, Ile-Ife, the state capital, Osogbo amongstothers.

The growing visibility comes amid increasing online conversations and radio discussions promoting Hashim’s 2027 ambition.

Recent reports identified supporters making the case for his candidacy on Diamond FM, Unique FM and King FM, while social media commentators have also urged Osun residents to support the Accord candidate.

In one widely circulated video, an online commentator, Almaruf, declared: “We rejected APC by voting for Accord, and we won’t return to our vomit.”

Other content creators, including Doki Dorcas, The God and Unusual Challenges, have also featured in online campaigns promoting Hashim.

The development points to an expanding grassroots campaign in Osun, where supporters are seeking to build momentum for Hashim beyond party structures and into communities, radio conversations and digital platforms.

CALLS FOR RELEASE OF HAUSA CULTURAL ACTIVIST, MAISANGO; HIGH LIGHTS REPORTED BURNING OF 11 VILLAGES IN SHANGA, KEBBI STATE

Accord Party presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has drawn international attention to the plight of approximately 3.68 million internally displaced Nigerians, calling for a broader response to religious persecution, ethnic discrimination and insecurity during an engagement with the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).

Hashim, who is the first major opposition political leader to be engaged by the Commission, also called for the release of Hausa cultural activist, Maisango, whom he said was being unlawfully detained. He further highlighted reports of attacks and the burning of 11 villages in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, urging the international community to pay closer attention to the suffering of affected communities.

Speaking during the engagement on Friday, Hashim acknowledged that Christians in Northern Nigeria face persecution but argued that religious persecution in the country extends beyond Christians. He pointed to the persecution of Muslim minorities, including Shia Muslims, Minority Sects even in the broader Shiite group, and argued that Hausa Muslim communities also face discrimination, exclusion and persecution.

He said Nigeria’s religious freedom crisis extends beyond the conventional Christian-Muslim divide, pointing to discrimination within Muslim communities in which ethnic identity and cultural affiliation can influence religious and social acceptance.

Hashim particularly highlighted what he described as the marginalisation of Hausa Muslims in parts of Northern Nigeria.

According to him, some Hausa communities experience unequal treatment despite sharing the same Islamic faith

The Accord candidate also raised the case of Hausa cultural activist, Maisango, whom he said remains in detention without trial despite reportedly having been dismissed from his employment with the Department of State Services (DSS).

He called for Maisango’s immediate release, stressing the importance of due process and respect for fundamental rights.

Hashim also drew attention to Nigeria’s displacement crisis, citing approximately 3.68 million internally displaced persons, based on UNHCR figures as of October 2026.

He argued that the humanitarian crisis cuts across religious and ethnic boundaries and that the experiences of displaced Hausa communities deserve greater international recognition.

He specifically cited attacks on communities in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, including Kalkami, Tungar Bori and Kawara. Reports of the April 2026 attacks indicated that suspected bandits killed residents, set buildings ablaze and forced people to flee their homes.

Hashim said the reported burning of 11 villages in the area deserved sustained international attention. He alleged that some armed groups operating in the region are not primarily interested in religious conversion but in killing residents, destroying settlements and taking control of territory.

A major concern raised by Hashim was what he described as the government’s failure to protect vulnerable communities and decisively confront armed groups.

He warned that Nigeria must not allow the security and religious freedom situation to deteriorate further as the country approaches another political transition.

Hashim further criticised what he described as insufficient accountability under the present administration, alleging that political interests have weakened the government’s response to terrorism and other forms of armed violence.

The United States designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern in October 2025, following earlier recommendations by USCIRF, which also called for the designation in its 2026 recommendations.

Hashim argued that international attention must recognise all victims of religious and ethnic persecution rather than focus on one religious community alone.

He called for a comprehensive approach that recognises the experiences of Christians, Shia Muslims, Hausa communities and other vulnerable populations, while addressing the responsibility of State institutions to protect constitutional rights.

The Accord Party Presidential candidate commended the commission for its work on religious freedom in Nigeria and President’s Trump’s interest in the subject, stating that “religious freedom is an intrinsic part of democratic right”.

The Auditor-General for Local Governments in Osun State, Isiaq Awotunde, has raised concerns over his inability to access bank statements needed to audit local government allocations, amid growing questions about the management of public funds in the state.

Awotunde disclosed that the lack of access to the relevant financial records had prevented him from carrying out a comprehensive examination of local government accounts and establishing how the funds had been utilised.

The development comes amid controversy surrounding the N238.4 billion reportedly allocated to the 30 local government areas in Osun State between January 2025 and June 2026.

The situation has been further complicated by prolonged political and administrative disagreements over control of the local government councils, with rival factions presenting different accounts of access to and management of the funds.

The inability of the state auditor to obtain the necessary bank statements has raised fresh questions about financial transparency, institutional oversight and accountability at the grassroots level.

Stakeholders have consequently renewed calls for improved monitoring of local government finances and greater transparency in the management of public allocations to ensure that funds meant for grassroots development translate into visible projects and improved public services.

The controversy has also highlighted the importance of strengthening audit institutions and ensuring that relevant authorities have unrestricted access to financial records necessary for the discharge of their statutory responsibilities.

The Lagos State Police Command has reportedly detained a police officer following a shooting incident that claimed the life of a young girl and left another person injured in the state.

The incident has sparked concerns among residents over the conduct of security personnel and the need for greater professionalism and restraint in the discharge of policing duties.

The detained officer is expected to face investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the events that led to the discharge of the firearm and the extent of the officer’s involvement.

The incident has also renewed calls for accountability within the Nigeria Police Force, particularly regarding compliance with established rules governing the use of firearms by security operatives.

Residents and concerned stakeholders are expected to look to the police authorities for a transparent investigation and appropriate action should any wrongdoing be established.

The Lagos State Police Command has yet to provide further details on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has declared himself the number one traditional ruler in Yorubaland, insisting that his position is rooted in history and the contributions of the old Oyo Empire to Yoruba civilisation.

The monarch made the declaration during an interview with broadcaster Edmund Obilo on his State Affairs programme, where he dismissed suggestions that he was engaged in a supremacy contest with other prominent Yoruba traditional rulers, particularly the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

Speaking during the interview, Oba Owoade maintained that historical records and the influence of the old Oyo Empire supported the Alaafin’s position as the foremost traditional institution in Yorubaland.

“I don’t fight for supremacy or whatever with anybody. But all I know is that historically, if you want to go by history and the contribution of Yoruba civilisation, then I would say that Alaafin is number one,” he said.

His remarks come amid previous disagreements between the Alaafin and the Ooni of Ife over the conferment of the title of Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Ibadan businessman, Chief Dotun Sanusi, by the Ooni in August 2025. The Alaafin had challenged the authority behind the conferment, insisting that no other monarch had the right to award a title covering the entire Yorubaland.

The Alaafin also spoke about the historical significance of the Oyo Empire, arguing that its influence declined over time rather than completely disappearing. He disclosed plans for the maiden Oyo Empire Day celebration, scheduled for December 17–19, 2026, to bring together communities historically connected to the empire, preserve Yoruba heritage and promote cultural unity.

The monarch further declined to comment on the appointment of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as chairman of the reconstituted Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

He said the proposed Oyo Empire Day would also provide an opportunity for descendants of the empire, including those in the diaspora, to reconnect with their ancestral roots and celebrate their shared heritage.