The Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Abayomi Akinruntan has resigned his position, citing the need to align with the conventional arrangement of elective position in the state.


The resignation letter of the former deputy speaker – representing Ilaje Constituency 1, – who is the son of the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan, was read at the floor of the Assembly by the Clerk, Benjamin Jayeiola.

Akinruntan, who was absent during the plenary, was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly in June 2023, a position he occupied until his resignation.


The resignation letter read: “I hereby tender my resignation from the office of the Deputy Speaker effective from today, 2nd June, 2025. Recall the House was inaugurated June, 2023 and I was unanimously elected as Deputy Speaker by members as stipulated in our standing order.

“My resignation is borne out of the need to align with the conventional arrangement in power sharing of elective positions in the state. I want to appreciate all members and staff for their contributions and support.”

Following Akinruntan’s resignation, the lawmaker representing Okitipupa Constituency 2, Ololade Gbegude was subsequently nominated by Oluwatoyin Japheth (Akoko North East Constituency) and seconded by Chris Ayebusiwa (Okitipupa Constituency 1) as the new Deputy Speaker.


Following the nomination of Gbegudu, which was not contested, he was subsequently sworn in as the Deputy Speaker with the pledge that he will serve in his new role with due diligence.

Similarly, the Majority Leader of the Assembly, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, also stepped down from his position, with the lawmaker representing Ose Constituency, Olatunji Oshati, announced as the new Majority Leader.

Also, Muritala Sulaiman, representing Akoko South East, was announced as the new Chief Whip, while Fabiyi Olatunji, Odigbo Constituency 1, becomes the Whip of the Assembly.


The Speaker, Olamide Oladiji, commended the former deputy speaker and the erstwhile majority leader for their maturity.

He said: “He (Akinruntan) has been a peaceful ally. He has support the house. I want to appreciate him for the maturity displayed for ensuring a peaceful transition.

“The same thing goes to the former majority leader. He has been a stabilizer in the House and also a good and dependable ally.”


It was gathered that the change of the positions of the principal officers became imperative in order to balance the unwritten elective political arrangements in the state.

Akinruntan and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa hail from the same Ilaje Local Council Area of the state, while the erstwhile Majority Leader, Ogunmolasuyi is from
Owo Local Council, where the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami hails from.




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“Political Class Behind Boko Haram” – Senator Orji Uzor Kalu Alleges Plot to Destabilize Tinubu’s Government

In a startling revelation, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has accused certain members of Nigeria’s political elite of sponsoring Boko Haram insurgents to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Speaking on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program, Kalu asserted that terrorism is being used as a political tool to destabilize the current government, similar to tactics employed against previous administrations.  

Kalu elaborated that the insecurity plaguing Nigeria is politically induced, driven by individuals seeking to hijack political power. He identified politicians, wealthy businesspeople, and senior civil servants as those fueling Boko Haram, not for financial gain but to gain control. 

The senator’s allegations come amid renewed concerns over Boko Haram’s activities, including recent attacks in Borno State. Kalu called for unity and patriotism among Nigerians, urging citizens to prioritize national interest over selfish political agendas. 

⸻

#OrjiUzorKalu #BokoHaram #TinubuAdministration #PoliticalInstability

“Stop Calling Her Duduke!” – Simi Sets Boundaries Over Daughter’s Nickname

Nigerian singer Simi has addressed a personal concern that’s been lingering since the release of her hit song “Duduke.” The track, which she wrote as a heartfelt tribute during her pregnancy, became so iconic that fans began referring to her daughter by the song’s title.

However, Simi recently took to social media to express discomfort with this. She urged fans to respect her child’s individuality and emphasized that her daughter has her own name and identity, separate from the music.

“Please stop calling my child Duduke. That’s not her name. Let her grow into her own person,” she stated.

Her message struck a chord with many, reminding the public of the importance of boundaries and personal respect, even for public figures’ families.

⸻

#Simi #Duduke #RespectBoundaries #CelebrityParenting #SimiDaughter #NaijaCelebs #NigerianMusic

"People call my daughter 'Duduke', which I don't like. That's not her name" - Singer Simi.

“No Sin in Borrowing”: Presidency Defends Nigeria’s Debt Strategy

In a recent statement, the Nigerian Presidency has asserted that borrowing is a necessary instrument for driving economic development. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that when loans are utilized responsibly, borrowing should not be viewed negatively. He stated, “It is not a sin to borrow. Even developed nations like the United States of America and the United Kingdom borrow beyond their GDP. The issue is not borrowing; it is what you do with the borrowed funds.” 

This clarification comes amid discussions surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s recent request to the National Assembly for approval of fresh external and domestic loans amounting to ₦34.15 trillion. The administration maintains that such borrowing is essential for funding large-scale development projects, such as highways and infrastructure, which are pivotal for economic growth. 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has previously echoed similar sentiments, stating that borrowing is part of fiscal responsibility. CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele noted, “Debt is never a crime or a sin. The private entity also borrows to survive. What matters most is the debt’s quantum and the debt usage.” 

However, concerns persist regarding Nigeria’s rising debt profile and the nation’s ability to service these debts. Critics argue that while borrowing can be a tool for development, it must be managed prudently to avoid long-term economic challenges. 


#NigeriaEconomy
#GovernmentBorrowing
#DebtManagement
#EconomicDevelopment
#InfrastructureFunding

Understanding the Difference Between Constituency Allocation and Allowance in Nigerian Politics

By Adebonojo Moyosore

In the ongoing discourse about governance, public trust, and legislative accountability, two often misunderstood concepts are constituency allocation and constituency allowance.Though they sound similar, their functions, implications, and sources of controversy are quite distinct. For a fair and informed opinion on political performance especially at the state or federal legislative level these terms must be properly unpacked.

1. Constituency Allocation: Developmental in Nature

Definition: Constituency allocation (often called constituency project fund) refers to public funds set aside in the national or state budget specifically for development projects within a lawmaker’s constituency. These could include boreholes, classroom blocks, health centres, road grading, and other public services.

Purpose: It is intended to bridge the gap between the federal/state government and rural or underrepresented communities. Lawmakers usually nominate or facilitate these projects through relevant MDAs (ministries, departments, and agencies), but do not directly manage or disburse the funds themselves.

Implications: These projects are not personal donations by the lawmakers.

Their execution is funded by taxpayer money, not private generosity.

Success or failure often depends on implementation by government agencies or contractors.


Controversy: Many constituents, unaware of this distinction, wrongly attribute the projects either directly to the lawmaker or blame them entirely for failed or poorly executed projects. It fuels false narratives of “generosity” or “non-performance”.


2. Constituency Allowance: Personal but Official

Definition: Constituency allowance, on the other hand, is part of a legislator’s official remuneration package monthly or annual financial provisions to support their operational cost of staying in touch with and servicing their constituents.

Purpose: This allowance covers logistics such as constituency office maintenance, staffing, community outreach, consultations, travel, and sometimes personal interventions (e.g., donations at burials, festivals, or emergencies).

Implications: It is personal spending with public funds, requiring judicious use.

Unlike allocations, this is not tied to infrastructure development but rather to representation and accessibility.

Misuse of allowance (e.g., pocketing the funds without maintaining constituency presence) is a frequent concern.


Controversy: Because it is not publicly tracked like project funds, the allowance often breeds mistrust and opacity. Critics see it as an avenue for “soft looting,” while defenders argue it’s essential for effective grassroots connection.

Conclusion: Clarity Is Accountability

When constituents conflate allocation with allowance, they risk misdirecting their anger or praise. A borehole funded through constituency allocation is a right, not a favour. And a town hall meeting organized from an allowance is part of a lawmaker’s duty, not charity.

For true political accountability, the public must demand transparency on both ends, developmental outcomes from allocations and representational value from allowances. Lawmakers must also educate their constituents and publish clear records, thereby reshaping political expectations from patronage to performance.

JUST IN: Reps Propose ₦5M Fine or 7-Year Jail Term for Bribe Takers — “No More Business as Usual”


In a bold legislative move, the Nigerian House of Representatives is considering a bill that would slam anyone caught collecting bribes with a seven-year jail term or a ₦5 million fine. The proposed law, if passed, would mark one of the most aggressive anti-corruption penalties ever tabled in the country’s National Assembly.

What the Bill Proposes:
• A 7-year prison sentence OR
• A ₦5,000,000 fine (or both in some cases)
…for individuals convicted of soliciting or receiving bribes in any form—cash, gifts, or favors.


The proposal comes amid increasing frustration among Nigerians over the normalization of bribery across all sectors—from police checkpoints and hospitals to courts and public offices.

Many see corruption not as the exception but the rule, with even basic services often requiring “something for the boys.”

According to lawmakers backing the bill, the aim is not just punishment but deterrence.

“We want to send a strong message,” one lawmaker said during plenary. “Bribery is no longer business as usual.”


Reactions online have been swift and divided.

While many citizens welcomed the bill, saying it’s long overdue, others questioned its feasibility in a system where bribery is deeply rooted—and often protected by those in power.

“Nice law, but who go arrest the people collecting the bribe when the arresting officer sef dey collect him own?” a user tweeted.

Others argued that the bill should also aggressively go after those offering bribes—not just those receiving them.

Real Change or Political Posturing?
Analysts are skeptical about the practical enforcement of the bill, noting that similar anti-corruption laws exist but are rarely applied to the powerful. Without a strong and independent judiciary, many fear this new law could end up as another “paper tiger.”

Still, the symbolic weight of the bill sends a message: the National Assembly wants to be seen doing something about Nigeria’s corruption crisis.

⸻According to TrendingEx


#EndCorruption #BribeBill #NigeriaReps #AntiBriberyLaw #NaijaPolitics #7YearsForBribe

Tragedy in Mokwa: Flood Claims Lives and Devastates Farmlands in Niger State

A devastating flood has swept through Mokwa town, the administrative center of Mokwa Local Government Area in Niger State, resulting in the loss of lives and widespread destruction of property. While the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed, reports indicate that several individuals have perished, and numerous others have been displaced.

The flood, believed to have been exacerbated by the release of water from the Jebba hydroelectric dam, has inundated vast areas of farmland, destroying over 10,000 hectares of rice fields that were nearing harvest. This catastrophe has not only affected local farmers but also those who migrated from other states for dry-season farming, leaving many without their primary source of livelihood. 

Abubakar Ndako, a local farmer, described the incident as catastrophic, urging authorities to intervene urgently. “Lives, capital, and hard-earned investments have been lost—most of which cannot be recovered,” he lamented. The communities had resorted to dry-season irrigation farming after suffering similar flooding during the last rainy season. 

The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed the incident and is currently assessing the full extent of the damage. Preliminary reports indicate that the flood has affected multiple communities within the LGA, displacing thousands of residents and destroying critical infrastructure, including homes and schools. 

This tragic event underscores the urgent need for comprehensive flood management strategies and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the impact of such disasters in the future.

#MokwaFlood #NigerStateDisaster #FloodRelief #NigeriaNews #AgriculturalLoss

Atiku, Suswam Criticize Tinubu’s Government on Second Anniversary

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked his second year in office with a speech highlighting economic progress and reform, opposition figures took the opportunity to deliver a sharp rebuke of his administration’s performance.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar did not mince words, labeling Tinubu’s government as “the most incompetent and anti-people administration in Nigeria’s history.” He argued that the president’s policies have worsened the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians rather than improved them.

Similarly, former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam criticized the federal government for failing to respond effectively to the widespread suffering across the country. He noted that, despite the promises of reform and growth, many Nigerians continue to face harsh economic realities including inflation, high unemployment, and rising insecurity.

“What we are witnessing is not the change Nigerians were promised,” Suswam stated. “People are suffering, and there’s no clear indication that this administration understands or feels the urgency.”

The criticisms come amid ongoing debates about the impact of Tinubu’s reform agenda, especially the removal of subsidies and introduction of new tax policies. While the government points to fiscal improvements, critics argue that those gains have come at the expense of the most vulnerable.

—According to Dailypostnigeria

#Nigeria #Atikuabubakar #GabrielSuswam #TinubuAdministration