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Nigeria’s 63rd Year: Olugbon Rallies Behind Tinubu, Advocates for Monarchs’ Constitutional Empowerment
The revered Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, has extended a call for unwavering support towards President Bola Tinubu’s tireless efforts in the pursuit of a better Nigeria for all.
The Deputy Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Alao used his position to advocate for a pivotal role for traditional rulers in the nation’s constitution.
He underscored their unique position as leaders intimately connected with the grassroots, emphasizing their potential to bring about positive change in their communities.
This impassioned appeal was conveyed through a press statement released on Independence Day, a momentous occasion marking Nigeria’s 63rd anniversary. Oba Alao took this opportunity to extend his warm congratulations to President Tinubu and all Nigerians.
Oba Alao emphasised that the Nigeria of our dreams could only become a reality when every citizen joined hands in unity to reshape the destiny of the nation.
It was a poignant reminder that, as a collective, the Nigerian people hold the power to bring about the transformative change needed to build a brighter future for their beloved country.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we must reflect on the legacies of our past heroes and their sacrifice for the country. It is more important than ever to work together to reposition the county to reclaim its lost glory. We all have a role to play in this, from traditional rulers to government at all levels and citizens.
“I urge Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s led administration and his ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda including the developmental agendas of states and local government. It might be challenging today but in the long run, Nigerians will enjoy the dividends of democracy, considering the effort of the government”, the statement read in part.
It continued, “However, to accelerate the new and better Nigeria that we all want, we must strengthen our traditional institutions. Our advisory role is not enough, President Bola Tinubu should as a matter of importance assign an active role to the traditional institution in his government. As a strategic stakeholder, we are closer to the people and we know their concerns. For example, the British government did not relegate their monarchical institution to their constitution.
“On another note, we also need to promote our cultural heritage and made-in-Nigeria products. We are great people and blessed as a nation across different ethnic groups with cultural, human, and natural resources. To actualize some of our great potential, we need to continue to live in unity, seek dialogue, and chart a new course for the country.
“I pray for prosperity and peaceful coexistence for our dear country, by the special grace of God.”
The Kano State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and breach of public trust.
The notice was presented yesterday during plenary by the Majority Leader, Lawan Hussaini Dala, who said the action follows Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Dala said the allegations stem from Abdussalam’s tenure as Commissioner for Local Government (2023–2024) and his current role as deputy governor. He accused the deputy governor of diverting funds meant for the 44 local government councils.
According to the majority leader, Abdussalam allegedly received N1.5 million monthly from each council between June 2023 and January 2024, totaling N462 million. Between February and July 2024, he allegedly collected N3.255 million monthly from each council under the guise of special assignments, amounting to N726 million.
Dala also accused the deputy governor of abuse of office, claiming he facilitated payments of N10 million from each council to NovoMed Pharmaceuticals Limited, totaling N440 million, in violation of state procurement laws.
“The misuse of official capacity to confer undue advantage constitutes abuse of power and undermines public trust,” Dala told lawmakers, adding that the allegations amount to gross misconduct under the Constitution.
The impeachment notice was reportedly endorsed by 38 lawmakers, meeting the constitutional threshold to proceed. The Speaker has acknowledged receipt, and the House is expected to serve the allegations on the deputy governor.
If approved, a panel may be constituted by the state Chief Judge to investigate the claims.
As of filing, Abdussalam had yet to respond publicly to the allegations.
The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, on Wednesday inaugurated a seven-member committee on the establishment of state police, giving it four weeks to submit its report.
The inauguration was held during his maiden conference with senior police officers at the Peacekeeping Conference Centre, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
Charging members of the panel to discharge their duties with professionalism and objectivity, Disu described the assignment as “both significant and timely,” noting that it would shape the framework through which state policing may operate in Nigeria.
“In carrying out this assignment, your deliberations must be guided by professionalism, objectivity, and a clear appreciation of the unique complexities of policing a diverse nation such as our own,” the IGP said.
He stated that if properly designed and effectively implemented, state policing holds significant potential benefits for the country.
“By bringing law enforcement closer to communities, state police institutions can deepen local knowledge of security dynamics and enable quicker and more targeted responses to emerging threats,” he added.
The committee is expected to review existing policing models within and outside Nigeria, assess community security needs and emerging risks, and propose an operational framework for the establishment and coordination of state police structures.
It will also address issues relating to recruitment, training, standards and resource allocation, as well as develop accountability and oversight mechanisms to ensure professionalism and public trust.
The panel is chaired by Olu Ogunsakin, with Bode Ojajuni as secretary. Other members are Emmanuel Ojukwu, Okebechi Agora, Suleyman Gulma, Ikechukwu Okafor and Tolulope Ipinmisho.
Disu said the committee had about four weeks to conclude its assignment and submit a comprehensive report.
The move marks one of the first major steps taken by the new police chief since his appointment and confirmation a few days ago.
The development comes amid rising security concerns across the country, with several stakeholders advocating state policing as part of measures to tackle insecurity.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier asked the National Assembly to commence the process of amending relevant laws to pave the way for the creation of state police.
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday swore in Olatunji Disu as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Disu took the oath of office at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, shortly before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.
The President also administered the oath of office to six commissioners of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) and two commissioners of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC).
The ceremonies were witnessed by ministers, senior government officials and family members of the appointees.
The council meeting began shortly after the swearing-in.
In attendance were Vice President Kashim Shettima; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs EsthMrs.Walson-Jack.
Disu was appointed acting IGP on February 25, 2026, by President Tinubu, following the resignation of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
His appointment was subsequently endorsed by the Nigeria Police Council (NPC).
The former Assistant Inspector-General of Police assumed office last Wednesday.
He previously served as Assistant Inspector-General in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos, after his promotion to the rank last year.
A former head of the Lagos Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Disu has pledged to deliver accountable, modern and professional policing.
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