In a historic move, the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed a bill for the first reading that is seeking to create Ijebu State from the existing Ogun State. The bill, titled “Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (Creation of Ijebu State),” was sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District.

During the plenary session, Senate Majority Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, introduced the bill as the “fourth order of the day,” with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding over the proceedings. The bill successfully passed its first reading, setting the stage for further legislative deliberations.

The push for Ijebu State creation is part of a broader national discussion on state creation aimed at fostering local governance, improving political representation, and boosting regional development. Proponents believe that Ijebu State would bring about greater administrative efficiency and promote economic growth in the region.

The legislative journey for state creation involves multiple stages, including further readings, committee reviews, and constitutional amendments. Approval requires a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly and endorsement by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly.

If successful, Ijebu State would become Nigeria’s 37th state, underscoring ongoing efforts to address regional demands for administrative autonomy and improved governance.

Musliu Akinsaya, widely known as MC Oluomo, has been elected as the National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Oluomo, a staunch ally of President Bola Tinubu, previously served as the Lagos State Chairman of the union and has now ascended to the national leadership.

The election took place during the Southwest Zone’s Quadrennial Delegate Conference held at the Zonal Secretariat in Osogbo, Osun State, where delegates from Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Ekiti states participated.

The conference, which was observed by Aliyu Issa-Ore, the acting National President of NURTW, followed the union’s constitutional stipulation, which mandates that the zone in rotation produces the president. As a result, the Southwest zone has now taken its turn in filling the national presidency.

In addition to the national presidency, the conference also saw the election of Tajudeen Agbede as Vice President for the Southwest zone, and Akeem Adeosun as a trustee from the region.

After taking the oath of office, MC Oluomo appealed for unity within the union, calling on all members to maintain peace and harmony. He emphasized his commitment to preserving the union, noting that any personal grievances should be put aside for the greater good. “I have forgiven everyone that offended me, and I wish those I offended would forgive me as well,” Oluomo said, stressing the importance of solidarity in ensuring the survival of the union’s mission and livelihood.

His election marks a significant development within the NURTW, with MC Oluomo pledging to lead the organization with a focus on unity, stability, and the continued welfare of its members.

The ancient city of Asaba was filled with joy on Saturday as prominent figures gathered to witness the historic coronation of Professor Epiphany Chibuogu Azinge, SAN, as the 14th Asagba of Asaba.
Among the distinguished guests was Mr. Peter Obi, who expressed his delight at being part of the momentous occasion, which he described as significant not just for Asaba, but for all who value tradition and leadership.

Professor Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and respected academic, took the throne following a distinguished career in Nigeria’s legal and academic sectors.
His coronation signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Asaba Kingdom, a community rich in history and cultural heritage.

The grand event attracted well-wishers from across Nigeria, including traditional rulers, government officials, and prominent legal figures.
In a statement signed by the Peter Obi Media Reach Spokesperson, Ibrahim Umar quoted Obi in his speech, Mr. Obi praised Prof. Azinge’s lifetime contributions to law and education, stating, “His elevation to this revered position reflects his exceptional service in both academia and law. His coronation opens a new era for the Asaba Kingdom.”

As the 14th Asagba, Prof. Azinge is expected to lead Asaba with peace, progress, and prosperity, upholding the values that have shaped the kingdom for generations. Many attendees, including Mr. Obi, voiced their confidence in his leadership abilities, applauding his proven track record.

In conclusion, Mr. Obi stated, “It was an honor to witness such a historic event and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Asaba, along with the exceptional leadership of Prof. Azinge. I wish him a successful and prosperous reign, filled with peace and progress for his people.”