Opening the record…
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MY ADDRESS TO MARK THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE 2027 PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CAMPAIGNS
21 August 2026
Dear Compatriots,
Members of the Press,
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen,
Wednesday, 19 August 2026,… Full textMY ADDRESS TO MARK THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE 2027 PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CAMPAIGNS 21 August 2026 Dear Compatriots, Members of the Press, Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, Wednesday, 19 August 2026, marked the official start of the campaign period for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections. There is no doubt that this is a defining moment for our democracy. This moment gives Nigerians the opportunity to assess the records, ideas, and plans of those seeking their mandate to lead their country at a time of grave uncertainty in our rapidly changing world. I consider myself quite privileged to be one of those seeking your mandate to deal with these challenges facing our country. I enter this contest with one firm conviction: Nigeria can work, and Nigeria must work. Nigeria faces several serious challenges. Some of them are indeed of existential proportions. According to the IMF, 63%, or over 140 million Nigerians, live at or below the national poverty line, while humanitarian agencies estimate that 35 million people will need food assistance during the 2026 lean season. About 3.6 million Nigerians remain internally displaced, largely because of conflict and insecurity. Each year, millions of young people enter the labour market, yet too many struggle to find productive opportunities. Weak infrastructure, unreliable power, insecurity, and the excessive cost of doing business continue to burden households and constrain enterprise. These are more than statistics. They reflect the daily realities of Nigerian families, farmers, workers, students, and businesses. Yet I do not believe Nigeria lacks the ability to overcome these challenges. We have the people, resources, market, talent, and enterprise. What we must do now is turn these strengths into security, productivity, and shared prosperity. LEADERSHIP MUST DELIVER RESULTS My successful private-sector experience, studies in institutions of repute on policy and business matters, and my service as Governor of Anambra State have shaped my understanding of public leadership. Government must manage resources responsibly, set clear priorities, and measure the outcomes of its decisions. Public office is not a reward; it is a responsibility to the people. In Anambra, I prioritised the foundations of long-term development: education, healthcare, infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and institutional capacity. I do not present that record as perfect, but as an experience from which Nigerians can draw their own conclusions. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso brings a different but complementary governing experience. As Governor of Kano State, he focused strongly on education, technical training, scholarships, infrastructure, and human-capital development. His administration’s investments in education and skills showed an understanding that the people are a state’s most important long-term resource. Our experiences are different, but our conclusion is the same: Nigeria must invest in its people and manage public resources with discipline. BUILDING AN ECONOMY THAT WORKS Nigeria needs more than reactive reforms. We must focus on the questions that matter: Are Nigerians better off than they were four years ago? Can they afford food, education, and healthcare? Can businesses produce, expand, and create jobs? Can young people find productive work? Can farmers work safely and get their produce to market? | 21 Aug 2026 | 1,152 | 574 | |
Those Seeking to be Addressed as “His Excellency” Must Behave Excellently
Yesterday, I joined other presidential candidates to sign the first National Peace Accord for the 2027 Presidential Elections.
My signing of… Full textThose Seeking to be Addressed as “His Excellency” Must Behave Excellently Yesterday, I joined other presidential candidates to sign the first National Peace Accord for the 2027 Presidential Elections. My signing of the accord is a reinforcement of my continued commitment to insisting that we, as candidates, must conduct ourselves in a way that reflects the office we aspire to. Leaders must eschew all forms of violent rhetoric and rein in their followers to do the same. The next elections must be strictly based on the issues that matter to Nigerians: unity, insecurity, pulling people out of poverty, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and restoring hope to the long-suffering people of our country. Our supporters must see that we have all committed to free, fair, and credible elections based on issues and devoid of rancour. Those of us wishing to be addressed as “His Excellency” must behave excellently, and, more importantly, the process of attaining public office must be excellent. We take very seriously the commitment of INEC to free, fair, and credible elections, as well as the pledge by law enforcement agencies to remain unbiased throughout the electioneering process. I call on my supporters to remain firm, determined, and peaceful. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 19 Aug 2026 | 897 | 235 | |
Junior D’Tigress: Silver in Africa, World Cup Bound
I congratulate Nigeria’s U18 women’s basketball team, the Junior D’Tigress, on their impressive performance at the FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket Championship in… Full textJunior D’Tigress: Silver in Africa, World Cup Bound I congratulate Nigeria’s U18 women’s basketball team, the Junior D’Tigress, on their impressive performance at the FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket Championship in Abidjan, where they emerged as African silver medallists and secured qualification for the 2027 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup in China. Although they lost the final 77–68 to Mali, the defending champions, their achievement deserves to be celebrated. These young Nigerians fought through the championship, reached the continental final, and earned the right to represent our country and Africa on the world stage next year. I am particularly concerned, however, by what I have learned about the circumstances of their preparation. I understand that the complete team had only a few days together before the tournament, despite an earlier preparation programme that had envisaged a longer camping and integration period for the home-based and foreign-based players. For a team assembled under such circumstances to reach an African final is a remarkable testimony to the talent, resilience, and determination of the girls, as well as to the commitment of their coaches, officials, and families who worked to make the best of a difficult situation. But their success should not make us comfortable with the shortcomings that surrounded their preparation. Nigeria has never lacked talented young people. From sports to science, technology, education, entrepreneurship, and the arts, our children continue to demonstrate that they can compete with the best anywhere in the world. Our challenge has always been whether we are prepared to build the systems that discover their talents early, develop them deliberately, and give them the support required to succeed. We cannot continue to depend on individual brilliance and extraordinary sacrifice to compensate for institutional weaknesses. Our young people deserve better. These girls have now earned a place at the World Cup. The lesson from Abidjan must therefore be that preparation for China should begin early. They should be kept together, properly trained, adequately supported, and given every opportunity to develop into a stronger and more cohesive team. I commend the players, the coaching and technical crew, the basketball officials, and the parents whose sacrifices helped make this achievement possible. Their effort reminds us once again that committed Nigerians are everywhere; what we need are institutions that enable their commitment to produce even greater results. To the girls, I say: hold your heads high. The silver medal is not the end of your journey. You have earned the opportunity to compete against the world, and I look forward to seeing you represent Nigeria with even greater distinction in China. Congratulations, Junior D’Tigress. Nigeria is proud of you. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 18 Aug 2026 | 82 | 14 | |
Let's end this cycle of killings.
The killings in Ungushi, Sokoto, where 32 Nigerians reportedly lost their lives, and the recent attacks in Ukum, Benue, where more lives have been lost and several others injured, are… Full textLet's end this cycle of killings. The killings in Ungushi, Sokoto, where 32 Nigerians reportedly lost their lives, and the recent attacks in Ukum, Benue, where more lives have been lost and several others injured, are deeply painful. These are not just numbers. They are parents, children, farmers, and breadwinners whose lives have been cut short, leaving families devastated and communities in fear. We cannot continue with a cycle of killings, condolences, promises, and inaction. The government at all levels must prioritise addressing insecurity. We need better intelligence, proactive security, swift responses, protection for vulnerable communities, and the diligent prosecution of perpetrators. The government must endeavour to protect the lives and property of its citizens. Nigerians should be able to sleep peacefully in their homes, travel safely on our roads, and go to their farms without fear. I extend my condolences to the families and communities affected by these senseless killings. May God comfort the bereaved, may Almighty Allah forgive the departed, and may our nation find lasting peace. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 18 Aug 2026 | 190 | 38 | |
Your Excellency, Mr President, Our Leader, & Our Dear Father,
On behalf of my family, I join numerous well-wishers across the nation to most sincerely congratulate you today on your 85th birthday anniversary.
As an… Full textYour Excellency, Mr President, Our Leader, & Our Dear Father, On behalf of my family, I join numerous well-wishers across the nation to most sincerely congratulate you today on your 85th birthday anniversary. As an elder respected statesman and a significant figure in our nation's political history, your enduring insights, commitment to national unity, and wisdom remain invaluable as we collectively strive to build a more secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria. May Almighty God grant you continued good health, joy, peace of mind, and many more years of fruitful life. Happy birthday, Mr President. -PO | 17 Aug 2026 | 382 | 101 | |
Osun: While celebrating, let us also remember those who paid the ultimate price for democracy
Once again, I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke and the good people of Osun State on the outcome of the election and,… Full textOsun: While celebrating, let us also remember those who paid the ultimate price for democracy Once again, I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke and the good people of Osun State on the outcome of the election and, more importantly, on safeguarding the democratic process. The people have spoken through the ballot, reaffirming the fundamental principle that power belongs to the people. As we celebrate this success, let's not forget those who made the supreme sacrifice for our democracy during the Osun election. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives under different circumstances during the electoral period. I believe these families deserve our collective compassion, solidarity, and support. I therefore hope that the families of those who lost their loved ones will be identified and reached through visits, condolences, and appropriate compensation, irrespective of the political side to which they belonged. Elections should be about the people, their choices, and their aspirations — not about the loss of precious lives. No political victory is worth the blood of a Nigerian. My prayer is that our democracy will continue to mature to a point where elections no longer come at the cost of human lives, and where political differences can always be settled through issue-based campaigns and the rule of law. May God comfort all the families who have lost loved ones and grant the departed eternal rest. With the right conduct of elections, a New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 17 Aug 2026 | 502 | 137 | |
Yesterday, I continued my trip to Kogi State. I travelled to Onugba Ukoh in Olomaboro Local Government Area. There, I visited Mater Spei Model Nursery and Primary School, a facility made possible by the generous support… Full textYesterday, I continued my trip to Kogi State. I travelled to Onugba Ukoh in Olomaboro Local Government Area. There, I visited Mater Spei Model Nursery and Primary School, a facility made possible by the generous support of international donors. It was a privilege to lay the foundation stone for the planned Mater Spei Secondary, Technical, and Vocational School. This significant undertaking is designed to enable young people from the local and surrounding communities to pursue their education while simultaneously gaining the technical and vocational expertise necessary for them to become self-sufficient and contributing members of society. I extend my sincere appreciation to the proprietor and management for their visionary leadership, foresight, and dedication to investing in the education of our youth. I also conveyed my commitment to supporting this commendable initiative. The imperative for continuous and strategic investment in education across our nation cannot be stressed enough. In a context where approximately 20 million Nigerian children are not enrolled in school, every endeavour to broaden educational access warrants encouragement and backing. Education serves as the bedrock upon which we can construct a nation characterised by productivity, innovation, and prosperity. It is the platform from which an individual from humble beginnings can achieve prominence, irrespective of personal connections. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 17 Aug 2026 | 269 | 70 | |
Yesterday Saturday 15th August morning, I visited Grimard College of Nursing Sciences, Ayingba in Dekina LGA of Kogi State. A few years ago, the institution faced a threat to its accreditation due to the lack of a bus… Full textYesterday Saturday 15th August morning, I visited Grimard College of Nursing Sciences, Ayingba in Dekina LGA of Kogi State. A few years ago, the institution faced a threat to its accreditation due to the lack of a bus for student clinical placements. It gives me great satisfaction to note that, thanks to my intervention and the subsequent provision of a school bus, the school has successfully retained its accreditation and continues to play a vital role in educating nurses and other healthcare professionals. My visit today was a continuation of this commitment. I contributed ₦10 million towards establishing a Skills Laboratory Centre for the school. I reaffirmed my ongoing support to the institution’s management, staff, and students. Specifically, I urged the students to dedicate themselves to their studies. A career in nursing offers extensive opportunities and equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel and make significant contributions globally. Every nation striving for sustainable development and an improved quality of life for its citizens must deliberately invest in two crucial sectors: education and healthcare. These are not areas to be overlooked. Governments have a responsibility to prioritise them, and it is equally important for conscientious individuals and organisations to support these efforts. A renewed Nigeria is achievable. -PO | 16 Aug 2026 | 267 | 74 | |
Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins
I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory. They - Osun people - have spoken… Full textOsun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory. They - Osun people - have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people. Through his commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and the strength of his work and achievements in office, Governor @AAdeleke_01 has earned their renewed confidence and been entrusted once again with their mandate. I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate. Their vigilance and determination demonstrate that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness. The lesson from Osun is clear: democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, conscious of their civic responsibility, and determined to ensure that their votes count. Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected. This is also a clarion call as we approach 2027. Nigerians must remain informed, participate actively, vote, and protect their votes. The Nigerian people are the ones experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity, and hardship; therefore, they are also the ones with the power, through their votes, to bring about the change that will end these conditions. I urge all political actors to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations and to embrace peace, unity, and the rule of law. Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service. May the Osun experience strengthen our confidence in the democratic process and inspire Nigerians everywhere to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous, and truly people-centred nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 16 Aug 2026 | 1,951 | 538 | |
A New Nigeria is About Investment in People
Today, I visited the College of Nursing Sciences and College of Medical Sciences at Bishop Shanahan Hospital, Nsukka, an institution I remain committed to supporting.
I made… Full textA New Nigeria is About Investment in People Today, I visited the College of Nursing Sciences and College of Medical Sciences at Bishop Shanahan Hospital, Nsukka, an institution I remain committed to supporting. I made an additional donation of ₦10 million to strengthen its growth, development, and capacity to provide quality medical education and training. I reminded the students that education goes beyond certificates; it is about gaining the knowledge, skills, discipline and character to make a meaningful difference. Their training also prepares them to become competent, compassionate healthcare professionals who can serve humanity anywhere in the world. My belief remains that sustained investment in education and healthcare, alongside deliberate efforts to lift people out of poverty, is one of the most effective and responsible ways to build a better, more productive and prosperous society. When we invest in people, we invest in the future of our nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 15 Aug 2026 | 295 | 71 | |
Standing with the Victims of Insecurity in Benue
Yesterday, I travelled to Otukpo-Nobi in Benue State, one of the communities recently attacked by non-state actors, where over 10 persons were either killed or went… Full textStanding with the Victims of Insecurity in Benue Yesterday, I travelled to Otukpo-Nobi in Benue State, one of the communities recently attacked by non-state actors, where over 10 persons were either killed or went missing. In contrast, several others were injured and are currently hospitalised. Alongside Otukpo-Nobi was another community, Efeyi-Ugboju, where over 13 persons were reportedly killed and several others injured. While we were there, we were also informed that earlier in the morning, 14 persons had been kidnapped along Ankpechi Road. I joined the community in praying for the repose of the souls of the departed at the site of the mass burial of the victims. We also visited the hospital to empathise with the injured, show our support, and pray for their quick recovery. Having visited, seen, and spoken with those affected, I urge the Federal Government to demonstrate a greater commitment to securing the lives and property of citizens and to closing the ungoverned spaces that have become breeding grounds for insecurity. The primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of its citizens. When government fails in this responsibility, as it has with the people of Otukpo-Nobi, Efeyi-Ugboju, and other troubled communities, it must be reminded of that sacred obligation. May the souls of the departed continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen. -PO | 15 Aug 2026 | 307 | 89 | |
Depressing visit to helpless citizens of a country of plenty.
Yesterday, after the funeral mass of Most Rev Obiora Akubeze in Benin City, I travelled to Enugu to meet nearly 1,000 kidney patients. It was one of the… Full textDepressing visit to helpless citizens of a country of plenty. Yesterday, after the funeral mass of Most Rev Obiora Akubeze in Benin City, I travelled to Enugu to meet nearly 1,000 kidney patients. It was one of the most disheartening visits I have had. I encountered people facing the most difficult moments of their lives, helplessly, in a country of abundance, among them children. Nigeria has over 25 million people with kidney disease. We have fewer than 200 kidney centres and barely 500 functioning dialysis machines, when we ideally need about 5,000 functioning dialysis machines. This is completely unacceptable. I must commend the organiser of the charity project, Emmanuel Onyeka Okoh (Okwuluora), for his selfless humanitarian service to Nigerians who cannot help themselves. I assured him of my ongoing support, starting today with my initial donation to his work with the kidney patients. The Federal Government, and Government at all levels must take the lead in actively investing in health to guarantee a healthier population for all. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 14 Aug 2026 | 724 | 192 | |
In Honour of the Late Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze
I arrived in Benin City yesterday to attend the Vigil Mass for the repose of the soul of His Grace, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, at the Holy Cross… Full textIn Honour of the Late Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze I arrived in Benin City yesterday to attend the Vigil Mass for the repose of the soul of His Grace, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, at the Holy Cross Catholic Cathedral, Benin City. Today, I also participated in the Funeral Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport Road, Benin City, as we gathered to honour a shepherd who sincerely dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity, with a deep concern for building a better society and improving the lives of the people he served. We celebrate the life of service of our Lord Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze, his commitment to the Church, his pastoral leadership, and his strong dedication to the people. His life reminds us that true service is rooted in faith, compassion, sacrifice, and a genuine desire to make society better. May his life of faith and service continue to inspire us, and may the good Lord grant him eternal rest in perfect peace. Amen. -PO | 13 Aug 2026 | 175 | 20 | |
OSUN STATE: LET THE PEOPLE CHOOSE, LET PEACE PREVAIL
As we approach the upcoming election in Osun State, I wish to draw the attention of Nigerians, our institutions, political actors, the diplomatic community,… Full textOSUN STATE: LET THE PEOPLE CHOOSE, LET PEACE PREVAIL As we approach the upcoming election in Osun State, I wish to draw the attention of Nigerians, our institutions, political actors, the diplomatic community, international observers, and all friends of Nigeria across the world to the solemn responsibility before us. Osun belongs to its people. Therefore, I call on the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, political parties, candidates, government institutions, civil society organisations, religious and traditional leaders, the media, and every stakeholder to act with the highest degree of neutrality, professionalism, and restraint. The people of Osun must be allowed to vote freely, safely, and without intimidation. Their votes must be counted transparently, protected faithfully, and announced according to the genuine will of the electorate. To those within Osun State, I appeal for peace. Do not allow politicians to turn your neighbours, friends, and communities against each other. Do not destroy your state in the name of winning an election. Nigeria is bigger than any candidate, and Osun is greater than any political party. To those outside Osun- politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers- I urge you to exercise restraint. Do not import violence, intimidation, or desperation into a state whose people have the constitutional right to choose their leaders peacefully. To our security agencies, your loyalty must be to Nigeria and the Constitution, not to any political party or individual. Your duty is to protect every voter equally. To INEC, the credibility of this election must be safeguarded from the preparatory stages to accreditation, voting, collation, and declaration. Every irregularity must be addressed seriously, and every legitimate vote must count. And to the international community, diplomatic missions, and election observers: please monitor Osun closely. Your presence, vigilance, and principled observation can bolster confidence in our democratic process. Nigeria welcomes genuine partnerships in the protection of democracy, peace, and the rule of law. Let us remember that democracy is not merely about who wins. Democracy is about whether the people are truly allowed to choose. Let Osun demonstrate to Nigeria, and indeed the world, that political competition can be intense without degenerating into violence; that disagreement can exist without hatred; and that power can change hands through ballots rather than blood. Let every vote count. Let every voter be protected. Let every legitimate result be respected. And above all, let peace reign in Osun State. Nigeria is watching. Africa is watching. The world is watching. Let us provide them with a democratic process worthy of the Nigerian people. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 13 Aug 2026 | 659 | 176 | |
My Salute to the young on International Youth Day.
Today, as we celebrate International Youth Day, I salute the courage, creativity, energy, and enormous potential of our young people. They are not merely the leaders… Full textMy Salute to the young on International Youth Day. Today, as we celebrate International Youth Day, I salute the courage, creativity, energy, and enormous potential of our young people. They are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are the greatest asset of our country today. Yesterday, while travelling to Bauchi, I was reminded once again of what our youths are capable of. The two captains who flew us were young men of 20 and 28 years respectively, while the crew members were also in their 20s. Their competence, confidence, and professionalism were a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to excellence when young people are allowed to learn, work, and lead. Across football, technology, medicine, aviation, entrepreneurship, academia, the creative industries, and countless other fields, our young people continue to demonstrate that Nigeria has no shortage of talent. What we lack is the deliberate investment and enabling environment to help that talent flourish. We must therefore invest more in quality education, skills, healthcare, technology, sports, and decent employment. We must create a country where a young Nigerian does not have to leave Nigeria to fulfil his or her potential. Our youths are not a burden to be managed. They are our greatest national asset and the builders of the Nigeria we desire. On this International Youth Day, I celebrate our young people and reaffirm my commitment to a Nigeria where every young person has the opportunity to learn, work, create, lead, and prosper. With the support and active participation of the youth, a new Nigeria is possible. Happy International Youth Day! -PO | 12 Aug 2026 | 169 | 30 | |
Yesterday, I was in Bauchi to honour, for the fifth time, the invitation of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation to its dialogue themed: “Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?”
I… Full textYesterday, I was in Bauchi to honour, for the fifth time, the invitation of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation to its dialogue themed: “Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?” I thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his selfless sacrifice and unwavering commitment to building a better Nigeria and a better Africa. I also commend the Chairman, President Olusegun Obasanjo, for his enduring contributions to peace, unity and justice across Africa. My appreciation also goes to the host, the Governor of Bauchi State, for his good work and for providing the platform for this important conversation. My modest contribution at the event was to highlight my concern that African democracy, using Nigeria as a case study, has deteriorated to such an extent that we are approaching a point where we may no longer be able to meaningfully say that democracy exists. I recalled how I approached the courts when I believed my mandate had been stolen in Anambra. At that time, the judiciary demonstrated the independence expected of an arm of government. It upheld the law and restored the will of the people, without any relationship whatsoever between me and the judges who handled the matter. That was democracy at work. Today, however, those who break the law are often the first to tell you to “go to court.” Our electoral management body, staffed by highly educated Nigerians, including many professors, is increasingly accused of enabling electoral malpractice and the emergence of people who are not qualified or do not possess the mandate of the people. Our lawmakers have removed forgery as an electoral offence, while some senior advocates appear to defend or normalise actions that should ordinarily attract condemnation. Our religious leaders sometimes pray for blessings upon political actors accused of misappropriating the commonwealth. And, most troubling of all, we now hear allegations of judges chanting, “On your mandate we shall stand.” When the very institutions established to protect democracy begin to accommodate its destruction, we must stop pretending that everything is normal. I earnestly call for sober reflection and honest thinking. Socrates said that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” A nation, too, must examine itself if it intends to survive. We must halt this drift towards institutional decay and redirect our attention towards building a country that we and the generations that come after us, can be proud of. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 12 Aug 2026 | 327 | 74 | |
SENATOR FRANCIS FADAHUNSI’S INCENDIARY RHETORIC AHEAD OF THE OSUN ELECTION
I wish to express my deep regret, and profound concern regarding the recent inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric attributed to… Full textSENATOR FRANCIS FADAHUNSI’S INCENDIARY RHETORIC AHEAD OF THE OSUN ELECTION I wish to express my deep regret, and profound concern regarding the recent inflammatory comments and threat-laden rhetoric attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi in the lead-up to the Osun State election on Saturday. As a high-ranking lawmaker representing the people in the National Assembly, Senator Fadahunsi carries a solemn constitutional and moral responsibility to promote peace, uphold democratic norms, and foster unity. It is therefore alarming and unacceptable that a distinguished senator would deploy intimidation, incendiary remarks, or political threats capable of heightening tensions, instilling fear in voters, and potentially inciting electoral violence in Osun State. Elections are meant to be a celebration of democratic franchise - a peaceful exercise through which citizens freely choose their leaders without intimidation, harassment, or coercion. Resorting to threats of force or disruption undermines the integrity of our electoral process, disrespects the electorate, and threatens the fragile peace of the state. I therefore respectfully demand that Senator Fadahunsi retract these harmful statements and tender an apology to the peaceful people of Osun State. All political leaders, stakeholders, and party loyalists across party lines must exercise the utmost restraint, moderate their language, and recommit themselves to peace and democratic decorum. The relevant security agencies must closely monitor inflammatory statements and ensure equal protection for all citizens, election officials, and voters before, during, and after the polls. The democratic mandate belongs to the people, and no individual, regardless of status or political office, should attempt to subvert the will of the people through fear or coercion. I urge the good people of Osun State to remain calm, peaceful, and resolute as they exercise their constitutional civic duty at the polls. Getting elections right is a necessary step towards a New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO | 11 Aug 2026 | 516 | 153 | |
By Making Excuses for Unverified Certificates, We Are Planting Poison in the Soul of Our Society
A nation that tolerates unverified academic credentials at any level of leadership, regardless of who is involved, risks… Full textBy Making Excuses for Unverified Certificates, We Are Planting Poison in the Soul of Our Society A nation that tolerates unverified academic credentials at any level of leadership, regardless of who is involved, risks destroying the very standards upon which a society is built. The issue is not about an individual. It is about standards, accountability, and the values we choose to pass on to the next generation. We cannot continue to excuse blurred, missing, questionable, or unverified credentials simply because they belong to someone we support. The process through which people attain positions of responsibility matters greatly. How we get into leadership is as important as what we do with leadership. If we normalise the abandonment of basic verification today, tomorrow we may have professors who never attended a university, doctors who never studied medicine, and judges who never studied law. That is the dangerous precedent we must never allow. Nigeria cannot sacrifice its future on the altar of today's transactional politics. We must build a society where truth is not partisan, standards are not negotiable, and accountability applies equally to everyone. History will judge us not only by those we defended, but by the principles we were willing to defend. We must choose truth over convenience, standards over sentiments, and the future over political expediency. A New Nigeria is possible, but only if we are willing to do the right thing, even when it is inconvenient. -PO | 11 Aug 2026 | 757 | 293 | |
'I Never Said Military Should Reject Salary Increase'.
I wish to address a recent
report that falsely attributes a statement to me, suggesting that Nigerian soldiers should refuse any salary increments until after… Full text'I Never Said Military Should Reject Salary Increase'. I wish to address a recent report that falsely attributes a statement to me, suggesting that Nigerian soldiers should refuse any salary increments until after the elections. This assertion is entirely untrue. My profound respect for our security forces, particularly the Nigerian Army personnel who diligently serve and protect our nation under challenging conditions, is unwavering. I have consistently advocated for the adequate provision of equipment, motivation, and protection for our security personnel. My concern was palpable when soldiers were lost to insurgents due to a delayed rescue effort, prompting me to question how those defending us could be left vulnerable in their time of need. Should I be elected President, the well-being, resources, safety, and honour of our soldiers will be a paramount priority. Those who ensure Nigeria's security must never be relegated to a secondary concern. Our soldiers are deserving of our utmost respect, unwavering support, and a government that will unequivocally stand by them. Under my leadership, scenarios where our servicemen and women are left unprotected in the face of peril will be eradicated. I implore the Nigerian populace to dismiss this misleading report. I remain committed to articulating a clear and consistent vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria. The realisation of a new and secure Nigeria is indeed POssible. -PO | 11 Aug 2026 | 699 | 147 | |
I am in a very sombre mood today as the burial church service of my beloved brother and friend, Chief Mike Okaka, is taking place in the United States.
I was scheduled to attend the service in person but couldn't due… Full textI am in a very sombre mood today as the burial church service of my beloved brother and friend, Chief Mike Okaka, is taking place in the United States. I was scheduled to attend the service in person but couldn't due to pressing exigencies at home; however, I was fortunate to participate virtually from the Church to the cemetery for the final interment. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are entirely with the family and friends. Mike was an eternally optimistic and passionate friend who was an unapologetic Obidient. His passing has left a vast void and a deep sense of loss. May God comfort the family, friends, and colleagues, and grant them strength during this difficult time, and give Mike peaceful rest. Amen. -PO | 8 Aug 2026 | 255 | 12 |