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10 Things To Know About Lagos New Victim, Witness Protection And Assistance Bill

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Lagos Assembly

10 Things To Know About Lagos New Victim, Witness Protection And Assistance Bill

Witness Protection

The Lagos State House of Assembly led by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa recently passed a bill to protect and assist victims of crimes and accidents as well as witnesses who have genuine information which could help effective prosecution of cases.

Titled ‘a bill for a law to provide for the rights and entitlements of victims and protection of witnesses and for connected purposes’, the bill which has been described as one that would protect lives and property is geared towards creating a peaceful Lagos society in line with state’s advancement.

 

 

The bill with 71 sections, is the first to be passed by a Nigerian State House of Assembly and creates for the establishment of an agency that would assist to meet its stipulations and goals.

Designed to meet the Megacity, or if you like, Smart City drive of the government, the bill also states how the agency is to be run, the establishment of a Trust Fund and how resources that should make up the fund are to be sourced and utilised. The bill currently awaits the assent by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

 

 

Below are 10 other things to know about the bill and the agency:

1. Provide necessary assistance to victims and witnesses including measures for treatment, reparation, restitution and rehabilitation.

2. Conduct research into ways victims and witnesses can be effectively treated, rehabilitated, assisted, compensated and protected.

3. Create a conducive environment for witnesses to make statements before law enforcement agencies without fear of any repercussions.

 

 

4. Pay compensation to victims or witnesses for any physical or mental harm, loss or damages to property.

5. A victim or witness shall be protected as far as practicable from unnecessary contact with the alleged offender and defence witnesses during trial and proceedings.

6. A victim or witness who suspects that harm may be inflicted on him due to his participation in any investigation can seek protection.

 

 

7. A victim or witness can be provided with security, temporary accommodation, permanent relocation, temporary or permanent employment or change of identity.

8. Victims of accident or crime must be assisted by the public or security agents and taken to the nearest hospital for treatment.

9. A hospital or facility that fails to treat a victim can face a N1m fine. If victim dies, the hospital or doctor faces prosecution.

 

 

10. A private hospital that receives an accident victim with severe wound must inform the agency within 48 hours for reimbursement of medical expenses where family members are not known or where the victim is indigent.

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Politics

2027 Assembly Race: ‘School Boy’ Sparks Fresh Hope for Surulere Constituency II

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2027 Assembly Race: ‘School Boy’ Sparks Fresh Hope for Surulere Constituency II

 

LAGOS – As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, growing support is emerging in Surulere Constituency II for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Assembly aspirant, Hon. Kayode Oloyede, popularly known as “School Boy.”

 

Running on the campaign theme, “Rebuild 2027,” Oloyede is positioning himself as an alternative voice for residents seeking a new direction in legislative representation and grassroots development.

 

A Vision Anchored on Four Pillars

The aspirant has built his campaign around a four-point agenda designed to address the concerns of constituents:

People First: Prioritising the welfare and everyday needs of residents above partisan considerations.

Transparent Leadership: Promoting accountability in legislative activities, constituency projects, and public resource management.

 

Inclusive Governance: Encouraging broad participation in decision-making by ensuring every segment of the constituency has a voice.

 

Sustainable Development: Advocating long-term investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, and human capital development.

Growing Grassroots Appeal

Political observers say Oloyede’s grassroots engagement strategy and community-focused messaging have resonated with many residents who desire more accessible and responsive representation.

 

His campaign consistently emphasises the need to bridge the gap between elected representatives and the people, with a promise to build “a better, stronger, and more prosperous Surulere Constituency II.”

 

A community leader, who requested anonymity, said many residents are looking beyond political rhetoric and seeking leadership that understands their daily challenges.

 

“We need someone who genuinely understands the struggles of ordinary people and is prepared to serve the community. For many of us, the call to rebuild is not just a campaign slogan but a reflection of our aspirations for meaningful development,” the source said.

 

A Competitive Political Landscape

As the countdown to the 2027 elections continues, Oloyede has urged constituents to embrace a vision centred on progress, accountability, and community-driven governance.

 

While Surulere remains a politically competitive constituency with established structures and influential stakeholders, analysts believe the increasing visibility of the “School Boy” movement could make the contest one of the closely watched legislative races in Lagos State.

 

 

Ultimately, political observers note that while grassroots mobilisation is a significant factor, electoral outcomes will likely depend on a combination of candidate credibility, party strength, voter turnout, campaign organisation, and the prevailing political climate as the 2027 elections approach.

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AMBO and the Osun Governorship Race: Assessing the Man, the Politics and the Vision

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of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji,

AMBO and the Osun Governorship Race: Assessing the Man, the Politics and the Vision

 

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election, a public affairs commentator, Oluseyi Olonade, has described the emergence of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, as a significant development in the state’s political landscape.

In an article titled “Oyebamiji: The Man, The Politics and The Aspiration,” Olonade argued that the All Progressives Congress governorship hopeful possesses the character, experience and vision needed to reposition Osun State for sustainable growth.

According to the writer, Oyebamiji’s appeal stems from his extensive background in the banking sector, where he spent nearly three decades working with institutions including Wema Bank, Trans International Bank, Spring Bank and Enterprise Bank.

A native of Ikire in Irewole Local Government Area, Oyebamiji was described as a technocrat whose experience in corporate governance, finance and risk management has shaped his approach to public administration.

The article noted that his public service journey gained prominence in 2012 when he was appointed to oversee the then Osun State Investment Company Limited. Under his leadership, the organisation was reportedly restructured and transformed into Omoluabi Holdings Limited.

The writer further highlighted Oyebamiji’s tenure as Commissioner for Finance under successive APC administrations, where he was credited with managing the state’s finances during challenging economic periods.

Olonade also referenced Oyebamiji’s appointment as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, describing it as further evidence of his administrative and leadership capabilities.

The article contrasted Oyebamiji’s governance philosophy with that of the current administration in Osun State, arguing that the APC aspirant favours institutional reforms, economic diversification and fiscal discipline.

of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji,

According to the writer, Oyebamiji’s proposed agenda includes strengthening transparency in government spending, expanding internally generated revenue, attracting private-sector investments and promoting industrial and agricultural development.

The article also highlighted youth empowerment, entrepreneurship development and digital skills acquisition as key components of his vision for the state.

Olonade concluded that the forthcoming governorship election would present voters with a choice between different approaches to governance, expressing confidence that Oyebamiji’s experience and developmental agenda make him a strong contender in the race.

 

 

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Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship

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*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship* A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state. The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State. According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens. “Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read. Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process. The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State. “We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added. The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members. While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election. Signed: Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, Secretary.

*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship*

 

A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

 

The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State.

*Oselu Tiwa nTiwa Endorses Oriyomi Hamzat for Oyo Governorship* A sociopolitical support group in Oyo State, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa, has declared its support for Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat as the authentic governorship candidate of the Accord Party ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state. The group made its position known in a statement jointly signed by its President, Mr. Adewale Oluwaseyi and Secretary, Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, on Thursday, describing Hamzat as a grassroots figure with strong connection to the people and a track record of humanitarian interventions across Oyo State. According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens. “Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read. Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process. The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State. “We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added. The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members. While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election. Signed: Alh. Adebayo Oyewole, Secretary.

According to the group, the endorsement followed what it described as careful observation of Hamzat’s leadership qualities, compassion and dedication to the welfare of ordinary citizens.

 

“Oriyomi Hamzat has consistently demonstrated empathy, courage and selfless commitment to humanity. Through his numerous interventions in the lives of ordinary citizens, he has become a symbol of hope to many families and communities,” the statement read.

 

Oselu Tiwa nTiwa also appealed to the national leadership of the Accord Party to prioritise the long-term future and electoral growth of the party in its decision-making process.

 

The group noted that Hamzat’s candidacy presents an opportunity for the party to strengthen its grassroots support base and expand its political relevance across Oyo State.

 

“We respectfully appeal to the National Leadership of the Accord Party to look beyond immediate political calculations and consider the bigger picture, the future growth, stability and electoral success of the party in Oyo State and beyond,” the statement added.

 

The group further expressed confidence in the leadership of the party, saying it believes the party’s national officers and stakeholders would take decisions that reflect fairness, inclusiveness and the collective interest of members.

 

While calling on party loyalists to remain calm and united, Oselu Tiwa nTiwa said continued consultations among stakeholders would help strengthen the Accord Party ahead of the election.

 

Signed:

 

Alh. Adebayo Oyewole,

Secretary.

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