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Reclaiming the Spirit of Public Service: The POHAN Example

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By: Rademene Asonye

In a nation where cynicism toward public office has hardened into habit, the emergence of the Public Office Holders Association of Nigeria (POHAN) offers a welcome ray of hope — a reminder that public service, when rightly understood, remains the highest form of patriotism.

Founded in February 2020 by Bashorun MD Eseyin, POHAN was conceived as the umbrella organization for all public office holders across Nigeria. In just five years, the Association has grown into a credible and reform-minded body, promoting integrity, patriotism, and efficiency in the Nigerian public sector. Its founding vision is bold: to rebuild a public service anchored on ethical values, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.

A Vision Rooted in Patriotism

The idea behind POHAN is not bureaucratic convenience but moral necessity. For decades, Nigeria’s public institutions have suffered from a deficit of trust. The civil service, once the pride of the nation, has in many respects become synonymous with inefficiency and neglect. Against this backdrop, Bashorun Eseyin’s initiative stands out as a deliberate effort to restore dignity and discipline to governance.

Eseyin, who serves as the founding President, envisioned POHAN as both a unifying and reformative platform — one that brings together office holders from all tiers of government under a shared ethos of service. His mission is clear: to rekindle the flame of patriotism in those who carry the burden of public responsibility and to remind them that leadership, at its core, is stewardship.

Partnerships that Empower and Reform

POHAN’s growing influence can be measured not only by its vision but by its partnerships. In collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), the Association has organized capacity-building and ethical reorientation programs designed to instill patriotism and efficiency in public servants.

Similarly, its partnership with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) reflects a recognition that reform must begin at the grassroots. By promoting ethical standards and accountability among local government leaders, POHAN is ensuring that good governance is not confined to the corridors of Abuja but reaches the communities where citizens live and work.

Through these alliances, POHAN has demonstrated that systemic change is achievable when institutions cooperate on shared values rather than political convenience.

A Platform of Credibility and Influence

POHAN’s activities have continued to attract an impressive array of national and international dignitaries. From Senator George Akume, Nigeria’s Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to global figures such as Sir Clyde Rivers and leadership advocate Dr. Sam Adeyemi, POHAN’s programs have drawn attention from leaders across sectors.

Federal Ministers, Governors, Senators, and Members of the House of Representatives have all participated in its events, lending both political and moral validation to its mission. This diversity of support speaks to a growing consensus that Nigeria’s governance challenges cannot be solved by legislation alone — they require a moral and institutional renewal within the public service itself.

Institutionalizing Integrity through Public Service Day

In furtherance of its reform agenda, POHAN has resolved to commemorate the United Nations Public Service Day annually — a symbolic but significant commitment. This global observance, which celebrates the value and virtue of public service, aligns perfectly with POHAN’s goal of recognizing and rewarding excellence in governance.

By observing this day, POHAN is institutionalizing a culture of reflection and accountability — reminding office holders that their ultimate measure is not tenure or title, but impact and integrity.

The Case for National Support

POHAN’s progress so far is commendable, but its success should not be left to the vision of a few. Reforming the Nigerian public service requires collective will — from policymakers, institutions, and the citizenry alike. Ministries, departments, and agencies must align with POHAN’s training and ethical programs, while civil society organizations and citizens must engage constructively in holding public officials accountable.

Public trust is not rebuilt overnight; it is earned through consistent, transparent, and selfless service. POHAN is laying the foundation for that transformation, but its work must be sustained through national support and institutional collaboration.

A Model for Ethical Leadership

In a country often accused of lacking role models in governance, POHAN is quietly producing them. Its emphasis on continuous learning, ethical reform, and patriotic leadership provides a replicable model for other professional associations. Bashorun Eseyin’s brand of leadership — disciplined, visionary, and inclusive — reminds Nigeria that transformation does not begin with policy pronouncements but with personal conviction and institutional courage.

Restoring Dignity to Public Office

The true test of governance is not in grand rhetoric but in service that transforms lives. By promoting accountability, ethical conduct, and professionalism, POHAN is helping to redefine what it means to hold public office in Nigeria.

Its message is as clear as it is urgent: public service must once again become a noble calling — one rooted in sacrifice, patriotism, and genuine concern for the people.

Nigeria’s journey toward reform may be long, but with institutions like POHAN leading the charge, there is hope that the public sector can regain its lost integrity and purpose. Bashorun MD Eseyin and his team deserve commendation for daring to believe that a public service that works for all Nigerians is not a dream — it is a duty.

Dr. Rademene Asonye, MNIPR
President, Female Journalist Network, Nigeria

2027 : We are ready to work with Peter Obi, others if….

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Former Kano State governor and 2023 presidential flag bearer of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabi’u Kwankwaso, says the 2027 general elections will be highly competitive, adding that his party is open to collaborations with key political figures, including President Bola Tinubu and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso, who recently turned 69, said the NNPP is willing to align with any political group or leader that shares its commitment to improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

“If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain. We have gubernatorial candidates in all the states and full structures nationwide. What will you offer them if we join?” Kwankwaso said while hosting Buhari Bakwana, a former political adviser to ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, along with APC members from all 44 local government areas of Kano State, at his residence on Miller Road.

Kwankwaso had earlier, in September, hinted that the NNPP could consider an alliance with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), provided such a move would offer clear advantages to his party.

President Tinubu, who is said to have held a series of discussions with the opposition leader in recent years, has previously referred to Kwankwaso as a “friend within the progressive fold.”

Reaffirming his openness to political partnerships, Kwankwaso told the BBC that any cooperation would depend on shared values and integrity.

He said, “We’re ready for anyone, whether it is the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If we are satisfied with their competence, we will join forces to achieve success. What we are looking for are competent leaders with integrity. The key thing is that whoever we ally with, be it the APC or another party, must be committed to the needs of Nigerians. If they fail to meet our expectations, we would not continue with them.

“What we are asking for is that the common people should benefit, that the masses should be free, the youth educated and security improved. Our people are being killed in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, parts of Kaduna, and other states. The victims are ordinary citizens, because the elites have fled to Abuja, where they are living in luxury. Some of them, like members of the House of Representatives, senators and ministers, have no concern other than enriching themselves, buying big houses, and flaunting expensive cars. They are appointed to positions and act as if they are untouchable, but I am confident that Allah will judge them accordingly.”

The NNPP leader predicted that voter awareness and participation will make the 2027 elections tougher than previous ones.

“I believe the 2027 elections will be much tougher. Unlike before, people are now more involved and more concerned. Everyone is looking for a way out because of the country’s situation. Thanks to radio and social media, the masses are now informed. Everyone is trying to secure a better future for themselves, their families and their loved ones.

“This time, nobody would come on election day asking for money to cast their votes. You may probably see new things unfold; things that have never happened before in Nigeria’s electoral history.”

Davido holds talks with French President, Emmanuel Macron

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Nigerian singer, David Adeleke , popularly known as Davido, has met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss cultural exchange and ways to foster a more connected global community.

The Nigerian superstar shared news of the meeting on Thursday through his X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he expressed gratitude for the experience.

“It was an honor meeting @EmmanuelMacron and sharing our visions for a better world,” he wrote.

Photos posted online captured Davido with President Macron, accompanied by entertainment entrepreneur Cubana Chief Priest and his manager.

The meeting marks another major international engagement for Davido, underlining his expanding impact on global culture beyond the music industry.

Christian genocide: Groups fault Daniel Bwala’s comments on killings in Nigeria

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A coalition of Christian youth organizations has strongly condemned recent comments by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, on the ‘Christian genocide’ in Nigeria.

On Monday, Bwala visited the leadership of CAN at the association’s national secretariat in Abuja, the country’s capital, amid the outcry of Christian genocide in Nigeria and the move by some United States lawmakers to protect “persecuted” Christians.

In a statement released after the visit, Bwala said he told the CAN officials that Western media and US lawmakers are “responsible for painting an inaccurate picture” of the situation in Nigeria.

However, addressing a joint press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, representatives of the Concerned Christian Youth Forum, Odua Youth Democratic Congress, Middle Belt Youth Vanguard and Progressives Congress, and the Southeast Congress for National Development, accused Bwala of “misrepresenting” the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) after a meeting with its leadership.

According to the coalition, Bwala’s public claim that there is no genocide against Christians in Nigeria directly contradicts the position of CAN and undermines the documented experiences of victims across several states.

“It is unstatesmanly, unethical, and misleading for Daniel Bwala to attribute to CAN what was never said in their private meeting,” Adama James Paul, leader of the colation said.

“His comments amount to a deliberate misrepresentation and a gross distortion of the truth.”

The coalition alleged that the denial of targeted attacks on Christian communities, particularly in the North and Middle Belt regions, amounts to an attempt to erase years of documented atrocities.

They cited persistent killings, displacement, and destruction of communities in Benue, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, Taraba, and other Christian-dominated areas, which they described as “a sustained campaign of extermination and ethnic cleansing.”

Adama said, “It is unfortunate that Mr Bwala, who hails from Borno State, one of the worst-hit regions by Boko Haram’s insurgency, would deny the suffering and deaths of his own people. His comments are not only insensitive but an insult to the memory of thousands who have lost their lives.”

The coalition further accused the presidential aide of seeking political relevance “at the expense of truth and justice,” adding that his actions have caused additional pain to survivors and displaced persons.

The groups called on all Christian leaders and Nigerians of goodwill to stand for truth and justice, urging political leaders to avoid statements that downplay or deny the realities of insecurity and targeted violence.

They, however, commended Nigeria’s security forces for their ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and restore peace across the country, while calling for sincerity and unity in addressing the root causes of violence.

“It is time for our nation to heal and move forward, but healing can only begin when truth is acknowledged, not denied,” the groups added.

How Public Policy Can Fix Nigeria — Insights from DIG Oyebade’s Leadership Course 56 Lecture at NIPSS

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Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police and National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Directing Staff, DIG Adeleye Olusola Oyebade mni, has called for a renaissance in Nigeria’s governance architecture through policy-driven leadership anchored on evidence, accountability, and inclusiveness.

Delivering a paper titled “Concepts, Theories and Features of Public Policy” to participants of the Policy, Strategy and Leadership Course 56, Oyebade asserted that effective public policy is the antidote to Nigeria’s governance failures, providing the framework for national stability, growth, and social justice.

DIG Leye Oyebade delivering the Leadership Course 56 Lecture at NIPSS, Kuru, Plateau State.

 

Oyebade described public policy as the “foundation of good governance and public administration,” stressing that it translates political vision into tangible programmes that impact citizens’ lives.

“Public policy is not just about government decisions,” he said, “it is a reflection of how power, values, and resources are managed to achieve collective goals.”

According to him, the complexity of modern governance, from poverty and inequality to technological disruptions and climate change, demands strategic policymaking rooted in research, consultation, and adaptability.

The former police chief, who now mentors senior leaders in strategy and policy development, emphasized that Nigeria’s progress hinges on its leaders’ ability to understand and apply the principles of public policy.
He dissected key theories shaping public policy, including Institutional, Group, Elite, Rational Choice, and Incremental Theories, explaining how each influences decision-making and governance outcomes.

Retired DIG Leye Oyebade with the participants after the Leadership Course 56 lecture delivered at NIPSS, Kuru, Plateau State on October 21, 2025.

 

“Leaders must see policy as a living system – dynamic, interconnected, and value-laden,” Oyebade said. “Without sound policy, even good intentions fail. But with coherent, goal-driven policies, nations thrive.”

Highlighting the features of effective public policy, Oyebade noted that legitimacy, goal orientation, accountability, and adaptability remain crucial for success. He urged participants to ensure every policy they design or implement serves the public interest and reflects inclusivity, transparency, and ethical governance.

He outlined four policy categories – distributive, regulatory, redistributive, and constituent, stressing that each must align with Nigeria’s broader developmental goals.

 

Oyebade further warned against policy inconsistency, bureaucratic inertia, and political manipulation, which he described as chronic weaknesses undermining Nigeria’s institutional progress.

In his closing remarks, Oyebade encouraged participants to use their NIPSS experience to champion reform and innovation in governance.

“Leadership without policy is like navigating without a compass,” he said. “Nigeria needs leaders who can think strategically, act ethically, and make evidence-based decisions for the common good.”He added that a clear understanding of the policy process, from formulation to evaluation, will empower leaders to translate vision into action and build public trust.The lecture concluded with a call for policy coherence across Nigeria’s public institutions, urging that reforms should not be reactionary but deliberate, data-driven, and adaptive to changing realities. Oyebade maintained that public policy is the bridge between leadership vision and societal transformation, and mastering it is the hallmark of strategic leadership.

Anambra Gubernatorial Election: CP Orutugu Visits Nnewi Area Command To Evaluate Personnel Readiness, Interacts With Stakeholders For Peaceful Polls

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

In furtherance of strategic preparations ahead of the forthcoming Anambra Gubernatorial Election scheduled for 8th November 2025, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, minps PhD visited Nnewi Area Command on 22nd October 2025. The visit, according to the Command’s spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, was a part of his ongoing tour to assess the readiness of personnel and formations for effective election security operations across the State.

During the visit, the Commissioner of Police charged officers under the Area Command to remain professional, vigilant, and impartial in the discharge of their duties before, during, and after the election. He reminded them of the Inspector-General of Police’s directive on maintaining the highest standards of conduct and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains a neutral arbiter in the electoral process.

 

 

CP Orutugu also held an interactive session with critical stakeholders in the Nnewi area, where he reiterated the IGP’s directive on land-related matters, emphasizing that individuals should always seek justice through competent courts of law. He further appealed to Ndi Nnewi to show greater interest in joining the Nigeria Police Force, noting that such participation enhances representation at the Federal level and strengthens patriotism within the community.

In their separate remarks, the stakeholders appreciated the visit and commended the proactive measures being taken by the Anambra State Police Command to ensure a safe and peaceful election across the State.

 

 

The Area Commander, Nnewi, ACP Augustine Oyamiele, also thanked the Commissioner of Police for the visit, assuring him of the Area Command’s full commitment to upholding professionalism and ensuring a hitch-free election.

 

 

In attendance were representatives of the Local Government Chairman, representatives of traditional rulers, Presidents-General of various communities, members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), and other security stakeholders in the area.

Mrs.Uwala Esther: Celebrating Nigeria’s iconic agric. researcher

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By Ayo Oyoze Baje

 

One of the most under reported subsectors of the nation’s economic landscape is that of the research institutes and the brilliant minds behind their ground- breaking innovations and inventions. Hardly does the public get to know about the challenges they face, how they overcome such, the benefis of their research findings and the applications thereof . But this is contrary to what plays out in countries such as India, Germany,the United States, the United Kingdom, China,Japan and Cuba.

So, in the bold bid to change the narrative we shall be bringing to the public sphere, some of our researchers who are making the difference. And all that is because we can longer afford to hide the good things happening to us and. It has to be in the push by the clarion call by yours truly,over the decades that we have to make the best use of our best brains.

Interestingly, one of such is Mrs. Uwala Olufunmilayo Esther who was appointed the Head of Station, National Cereals Research Institute (,NCRI),Moore Plantation,Apata,Ibadan. back in October,2024.
A seasoned Rice Breeder and Principal Research Officer, Mrs. Uwala possesses wealth of experience, academic excellence, and exemplary leadership qualities. Her passion for agriculture, which was ignited at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi (now Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi), where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, specializing in Crop Production and Soil Science, between 1998 and 2003. This has furthermore, been aptly exhibited in her quest for advanced knowledge,which led her to the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, where she obtained a Master’s degree in Agriculture with a focus on Plant Breeding and Seed Technology from 2015 to 2017. These have become manifest with her appointment,where she has continued to prove her mettle in handling human and material resources excellently.

Since she joined the NCRI in 2010 as a Rice Breeder, she has been recognized for her stellar performance and outstanding leadership in every assignment given to her. In fact, her dedication and innovative approach have significantly contributed to the institute’s research advancements. Mrs. Uwala therefore, exemplifies the qualities of a transformational leader which include integrity, empathy, vision, and the ability to inspire and motivate others.

Standing her out; head and shouldes amongst her peers is her servant-leadership approach which has continued to foster an environment where every staff member feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.

So, to get insight into how her duties have been playing out she was asked a few questions for her to respond to. For instance, what have been her challenges, experience and the impact made as the Head of Station,National Cereals Research Institute ( NCRI ) over the past one year?

In response, she explained that: “The challenges have been how to reposition the Research Institute back to the real status to carry out appropriate research on grains and cereals food here in Nigeria The aim is to work towards the real essence, goals and objectives of establishment On her experience, she stated that: “
Leading the Outstation has been mixed experience, having to put the institute in functional mood ,as well as making the staff motivated to deliver on the assigned responsibilities.

 

“The need to source for funds within to meet the daily needs to run the institute with meagre funds available posed serious issues,which are tackled from time to time.”

 

From that financial challenge she was asked what the federal government and the private sector should be doing to assist research institutes in Nigeria? In response, she expressed her opinion that: “The federal government should readily fund the research institutes appropriately to engage in productive research work ,that will give the nation profitable yields.

“A collaborative work and synergy should be developed between the institute and the private sector ,for smooth working relationships,towards functional edifice /establishment.The private sector will argument the gaps in smooth running and effective management ,with contributions in lacking areas ” What a brilliant position from her.

As a role model, having achieved so much even at her young age what is her piece of advice to the younger generation of Nigerians? Responding she stated that: “The younger generation of Nigerians should pay better attention to developing the agricultural sector ,towards increasing the GDP of the country , through revenue from exports . The need for the younger generation to divert attention from oil to agriculture ,which can serve as the mainstay of the economy has become an imperative “.That is apt!

In the light of the above- stated it has become pertinent to know who are her heroes and what has she gained from them? Beaming with a beautiful smile she had this tovsay: “My hero is my father, Dr Ayodele Uwala and Professor D.K Ojo,who have made significant contributions to the growth of agriculture in Nigeria.
My father has made impacts through outstanding contributions in Soybean production , currently the NSA president in Nigeria,while Professor Ojo has track records of impacts in agricultural sector in Nigeria and in theglobal arena”. A chip of the old block, one would admit.

Her background

Born on 21st May,1979 to the family of Mr and Mrs Ayodele Christopher Uwala who hail from Ose LG Area of Ondo state, she commenced her primary education at Sacred Heart Primary School,Ibadan in 1984 and passed out in 1990. Funmi proceeded to Queens school, Ibadan in 1990 and passed out in 1996 with secondary school Certificate.

A brilliant, young girl then gained admission into University of Agriculture,Makurdi,Benue State in 1998 and graduated in 2003.She bagged her first Degree in Agronomy in 2003 and on completion went for the mandatory one year National Youth Service Scheme(NYSC).

Funmi ‘s quest for higher educational advancement led to her enrollment for Masters Degree at the Federal University of Agriculture,Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in 2015.
In 2020,Funmi bagged M.Agric in Plant Breeding and Seed Technology in addition to her earlier obtained Bachelor of Science in Crop Production and Soil Science.

Mrs Uwala Olufunmi Esther Alabi is currently undergoing her Ph.D Programme on Plant Breeding at the FUNAAB

Mrs UWALA Olufunmi
,a scholar of international repute and a breeder with the NCRI, has attended wide range of Seminars and Trainings .Some of which are “Training on Developments of Core Agricultural Researcher for Promotion of Rice production in Sub Sahara Africa by JICA.
Also a Seminar at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) themed : IITA Gender ,Youth and Social Inclusion (GYSI).
At different times ,trainings and Seminars
organized by Nigerian Soybean Association (NSA)

Seminars organized by Association of Seed Scientists of Nigeria)ASSN).

Mrs UWALA Olufunmi, a top notch breeder has also attended Annual Symposium of the International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows(IARSAF) at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan.

A pure bred scientist ,Mrs UWALA has also attended Workshop on ” Biotechnological Applications for Food Security and Wealth Creation at National Centre for Genetic Resources &,Biotechnology (NACGRAB) in Nov 2014.
She attended Training Course on Hybrid Rice and Seed Production in June 2013 and another training course on “Hybrid Rice and Seed Production “, at Saint Louis,Senegal in Nov 2013.

She attended seminar put together by “Nestle Foods” on “Nutrition, Productivity and Nation Building in 2000.
Mrs Uwala Olufunmi Esther,a seasoned agricultural scientist,breeder of academic standard and an administrator of note, is a member of many recoganized organizations.
The General Secretary of Nigerian Soybean Association (NSA), A Member of Agricultural Society of Nigeria (ASN), A Member of Plant Breeders Association of Nigeria ( PBAN), A Member of Association of Seed Scientists of Nigeria (ASSN), A Member of Genetic Society of Nigeria ( GSN) and a member of Plant Breeders Association of Nigeria(PBAN).
Mrs UWALA Olufunmi Esther Alabi is an administrator with skills and outstanding leadership virtues.She served as the Desk Officer for Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit of ICPC,ACTU,Ibadan Station.
She awesomely shown dedication as the General Secretary of the Nigerian Soybean Association (NSA) South West Region.
Since her first working experience at Ireti Olu Model College,Ido,Ogun State,during her NYSC year in 2003,she has displayed sterling vision and vigour ,which have continued to manifest till date.

Briefly afterward before her gainful employment into the federal government service UWALA Olufunmi Esther worked briefly at the Casava Breeding Unit , Industrial Training at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture,(IITA),Ibadan in 2001.

She sometimes supervised a Project Work titled : Effect of frequent Weed Control in two Upland Rice Varieties in Ibadan South West 2016 at the Federal College of Agriculture,IAR&T,Moore Plantation,Apata, Ibadan.
Mrs UWALA Esther has good number of papers published in international Journals and related associations publications ,both academic and proffessional. She is happily married with children.

All said, she has so far distinguished herself as a great ambassador of both her family and the academia.
We need many more of her type to be a brilliant beacon for her generation and others to come for a Better Nigeria.

Alleged forgery: Presidency under pressure to probe Interior Minister’s NYSC certificate saga

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The Presidency has confirmed receipt of a formal petition calling for the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to step aside pending a thorough investigation into allegations concerning his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate, reportedly issued in 2023.

According to reports, the petition was submitted on Tuesday by a coalition of civil society organizations and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Chief of Staff. A copy of the petition was also forwarded to the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).

The coalition described the case as “a constitutional and ethical matter that strikes at the very heart of integrity, justice, and public accountability,” insisting that no government official should be shielded from scrutiny.

According to the petition, Tunji-Ojo was first mobilised for the NYSC scheme in 2006 at the age of 24 but allegedly absconded from service.

The NYSC, the petitioners claimed, officially confirmed that the minister did not complete his one-year mandatory service.

Thirteen years later, in 2019, Tunji-Ojo was said to have been re-mobilised to complete his service year.

However, during that same period, he was serving as a member of the House of Representatives, representing Akoko North-East/North-West Federal Constituency of Ondo State — a dual role that, according to the coalition, violated constitutional provisions prohibiting public officers from holding two remunerated positions simultaneously.

Despite reportedly completing the service in 2020, no discharge certificate was issued at the time.

The groups alleged that a new certificate mysteriously surfaced in 2023, signed by an NYSC Director-General who was not in office during the purported service year.

The NYSC’s explanation — that Tunji-Ojo’s name was “omitted during printing” — was dismissed by the petitioners as “suspicious, irregular, and inconsistent with established NYSC administrative procedures.”

The coalition cited several laws that may have been breached, including: Sections 2 and 13 of the NYSC Act, which criminalize absconding from service or using forged NYSC certificates; Paragraph 2, Part I of the Fifth Schedule to the 1999 Constitution, which prohibits public officers from receiving salaries from more than one public office; and Sections 19 and 25 of the ICPC Act, which prescribe up to seven years’ imprisonment for any public officer who receives double remuneration or acts corruptly.

They argued that if Tunji-Ojo indeed participated in the NYSC programme while serving as a federal lawmaker, it would constitute “an abuse of office, conflict of interest, and violation of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.”

The petitioners also accused the Tinubu administration of selective justice, referencing the resignation of a minister from the South-East over certificate irregularities.

“Just as a minister from the eastern part of Nigeria was asked to resign pending investigation over certificate irregularities, the same standard of accountability must apply to Minister Bunmi Tunji-Ojo,” the coalition wrote. “Justice must not wear ethnic or political colours.”

The coalition outlined four major demands: That Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo step down immediately to allow for an independent investigation; That the Presidency direct the NYSC, ICPC, and Code of Conduct Bureau to investigate the authenticity of the 2023 certificate; That the National Assembly open an inquiry into possible double remuneration between 2019 and 2020; That the issue be treated as a matter of national integrity, not political affiliation.

The coalition urged President Tinubu to act “decisively for history, for justice, and for Nigeria.”

“This is not merely about Bunmi Tunji-Ojo — it is about whether the rule of law still governs our democracy,” the petition stated.

“If selective justice is allowed to stand, it will erode public confidence in government institutions and deepen cynicism.”

Osimhen makes 10-man shortlist for 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year Award

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Super Eagles star striker, Victor Osimhen, has once again earned recognition on the continental stage after being shortlisted for the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year Award.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the 10-man shortlist on Wednesday, featuring some of Africa’s most outstanding football talents who have made remarkable contributions for both club and country over the past year.

Alongside Osimhen, the list includes Mohamed Salah of Egypt; Achraf Hakimi and Oussama Lamlioui of Morocco; Seydou Guirassy of Guinea; Fiston Mayele of Congo; Frank Anguissa of Cameroon; Denis Bouanga of Gabon; and Senegalese stars Ilimane Ndiaye and Pape Sarr.

Osimhen, who won the prestigious award in 2023, enjoyed another impressive season, leading Galatasaray to the Turkish Super Lig title with 26 league goals. His remarkable form earned him a record €75 million permanent transfer from Napoli to the Turkish champions.

In other categories, Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali has been nominated for the Goalkeeper of the Year award, where he will face competition from Yassine Bounou, Ronwen Williams, and Andre Onana.

Also on the honours list is Daniel Bameyi, captain of Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, who is among the contenders for the Men’s Young Player of the Year award.

CAF is expected to announce the winners at its annual awards ceremony later in the year.

PSC To Look Into Allegations Of Bribery Against AIG Aina

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

The Police Service Commission, according to a press statement signed by its spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, says it will look into the bribery allegations against AIG Emmanuel Aina by a group of protesters who stormed it’s Corporate Headquarters in Jabi Abuja.

The protesters carrying placards and operating under the umbrella body of centre for Human Rights and Advocacy in Africa Network (CHRAAN) demanded a probe of the AIG whom they accused of abuse of Office.

The Commission wishes to state that it will look into the complaints and ensure that justice is served to both parties. The Commission insists that it will continue to hold the Police accountable for its actions and inactions but enjoins Nigerians to also give the Police the required support and Cooperation to give off its best.

He said the Commission has since launched a whistle blowing Policy and called on Nigerians to feel free to blow the whistle on official corruption in its activities and on the institutions it has oversight control.