society

Bichi: Celebrating a Champion of Probity By Okanga Agila

Published

2 years ago

June 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Bichi: Celebrating a Champion of Probity

By Okanga Agila

The 10th National Assembly will be etched in the annals of Nigeria’s legislative history as a paradigm of transparency, inclusivity, and fiscal responsibility, and Hon. Kabir Bichi’s stewardship as the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations was the linchpin of this transformative era. His visionary leadership was instrumental in effecting a paradigm shift in the budgetary process, cultivating a culture of public engagement in legislative affairs, and fostering an unprecedented level of accountability and transparency.

Throughout his tenure, Hon. Bichi demonstrated a great commitment to his dual roles as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations and representative of the good people of Bichi Federal Constituency. His dedication to the welfare of his constituents and his unflinching resolve to ensure that the legislative process was transparent, inclusive, and fiscally responsible have been truly exemplary, leaving an indelible mark on the legislative landscape of Nigeria.

The tenure of Hon. Bichi as the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations has fortuitously coincided with a burgeoning national clamour for fiscal responsibility and accountability. Under his visionary stewardship, the Committee has pioneered innovative strategies to ensure that funds are judiciously channelled towards projects that tangibly impact the nation’s development and progress.

Notably, Bichi and his team have successfully implemented a cutting-edge system that leverages the power of technology and data analytics to optimize resource allocation, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of budgetary implementations. This revolutionary approach has departed from the erstwhile opaque and corrupt practices that often shrouded budgetary allocations in secrecy.

One of Bichi’s most significant achievements has been his unwavering commitment to transparency, which has been manifest in the Committee’s encouragement of public debate, inputs, and suggestions on budget proposals. This has entailed a significant increase in public hearings, detailed breakdowns of budgetary allocations, and the utilization of online platforms for public engagement, thereby fostering a more inclusive and participatory budgetary process.

This groundbreaking achievement has had a profound impact on the perception of Nigerians regarding the legislative process, instilling a renewed sense of trust and confidence in the ability of the National Assembly to effectively and responsibly manage the nation’s resources.

Hon. Bichi’s commitment to transparency transcends mere rhetoric, as he has actively cultivated a culture of accountability within the committee. Media reports attest to his unwavering insistence on robust justifications for budgetary requests, ensuring that every allocation serves a legitimate purpose and delivers tangible value for taxpayer money.

This heightened scrutiny has undoubtedly served as a deterrent against profligate spending, promoting a more efficient and responsible approach to national budgeting. Hon. Bichi’s effectiveness extends far beyond the confines of the appropriations committee, as he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving the needs of his constituents in Bichi.

Despite the demanding task of chairing the Appropriations Committee, Bichi has struck a balance between his national responsibilities and his dedication to his constituents, ever available to listen to their concerns and working tirelessly to ensure their needs are reflected in the national budget.

Bichi’s dedication transcends mere funding allocation; he actively engages with his constituents, ensuring their voices are heard and their priorities are reflected in his actions. Town hall meetings and community outreach programs are integral to his approach, fostering a strong sense of trust and accountability between the representative and the people he serves.

This commitment to open communication has created a symbiotic relationship between Hon. Bichi and his constituents, ensuring that their needs are perpetually at the forefront of his legislative endeavours. The capacity to navigate the demands of national representation while remaining rooted in local service is a distinguishing characteristic of a truly exceptional leader, and Rep. Bichi has demonstrated a mastery of this delicate balance.

His national role as Chairman of the Appropriations Committee allows him to shape national spending priorities, thereby ensuring that critical resources are allocated to projects that benefit the entire country, including his constituency. Concurrently, his firm commitment to Bichi ensures that his constituency reaps the benefits of his national influence, as he secures targeted funding for local projects and remains accessible to his constituents, epitomizing the true essence of representative democracy.

Hon. Bichi’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as various groups and organizations have lauded his dexterity, legislative acumen, and commitment to excellence. The passage of the people-oriented 2023 supplementary budget, which was subject to public participation and debate, is a testament to his leadership prowess.

News reports have highlighted his tireless efforts in securing critical infrastructure projects for the constituency, including improvements to road networks and educational facilities, investments in healthcare and agricultural development, and numerous other initiatives that have tangibly impacted the lives of his constituents.

The tenure of Hon. Bichi in the 10th National Assembly serves as a paradigmatic model of responsible and effective leadership, providing a benchmark for his colleagues to emulate. His unwavering commitment to transparency in national budgeting and his dedication to serving the needs of his constituents have set a lofty standard for leadership in Nigeria.

As Nigerians gaze towards the future, Hon. Bichi’s exemplary leadership provides a compelling vision for the type of leadership the nation requires: leaders who are both fiscally responsible and deeply invested in the well-being of their constituents. Leaders who are dedicated to selfless service, prioritizing the growth and development of their country. Leaders who will courageously defy all obstacles to ensure that democracy continues to flourish, anchored on the principles of transparency and accountability.

In conclusion, Hon. Kabir Bichi’s tenure as the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations in the 10th National Assembly was distinguished by numerous significant achievements. His leadership was characterized by an unbeatable level of commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and fiscal responsibility, serving as a beacon for responsible governance in Nigeria.

As we evaluate the remarkable efforts of this distinguished parliamentarian, we can only hope that future leaders will draw inspiration from his exemplary leadership and continue to build upon his enduring legacy. It shall be etched in the annals of the green chamber for generations to come that a remarkable parliamentarian once graced these hallowed halls, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of the people he served with unwavering dedication, integrity, and distinction.

The legacy of this extraordinary leader shall forever be remembered.

*Okanga writes from Abuja.

society

CSO Gives IGP 24-Hour Ultimatum Over Alleged Police Plot Against Hammed Akanbi

Published

2 hours ago

April 19, 2026

Sahara Weekly

CSO gives IGP 24-hour ultimatum to realise Hammed Akanbi

Civil society Organisation has raised concern over a disturbing sequence of events that point to an alleged high-level conspiracy within the Nigeria Police Force led by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare (AIG Zone 2), targeted at Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi.

The CSO in a press conference addressed by its leader Com Kolawole Emmanuel , gave the Inspector General of Police a 24-hour ultimatum, demanding the immediate transfer of Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi to a neutral and independent investigative unit and unrestricted access to his legal representatives and family members.

It said: “Our findings reveal that this matter is not isolated but deeply rooted in the long-standing crisis within the Ojomu Royal Family of Ajiran in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State; a crisis that predates the tenure of Jimoh Moshood Olorundare as Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.

“At the core of this crisis is the control and allocation of vast ancestral lands spanning over 22 communities. This dispute has polarised the community into factions: those aligned with the Kabiesi and those loyal to Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, who serves as Chairman of the Youth Wing of the Ojomu Royal Family.

“A troubling dimension emerged with the alleged ambition of Bashir Fakorede to ascend the Ojomu stool while the current monarch remains alive. Credible allegations indicate that Bashir Fakorede identified Mr. Akanbi as the principal obstacle to this ambition and openly declared his intention to “crush” him.

“It is further alleged that Bashir Fakorede enlisted the support of Muiz Banire (SAN), who purportedly assured him of leveraging institutional connections, including the office of the Attorney General of Lagos State, to ensure the prosecution and conviction of Mr. Akanbi.

“In furtherance of this alleged scheme, Bashir Fakorede reportedly conspired with Jimoh Moshood Olorundare who was then the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, now Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Zone 2.

“It is alleged that inducements, including four plots of land at Chevron Drive valued at about ₦1.2 billion, were offered to Jimoh Moshood to secure cooperation in orchestrating Mr. Akanbi’s arrest and eventual elimination.

“Subsequently, a previously investigated and resolved murder allegation was resurrected under questionable circumstances. Individuals were allegedly arrested at random and coerced into making incriminating statements falsely linking Mr. Akanbi to the death of one Sheriff Salami.

“Despite Mr. Akanbi being outside Nigeria on medical grounds, he was declared wanted on 19th February 2026 by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, a move widely regarded as procedurally defective. This declaration allegedly triggered sponsored acts of violence, including the destruction of his property in Ajiran.

“Legal proceedings initiated by Mr. Akanbi at the Ikeja High Court (Suit No: ID/21447MFHR/2026) challenged this action. Notably, an earlier arrest and remand order obtained through Charge No: Misc/60A/2026 was set aside by the same court due to misrepresentation and concealment of material facts.

“A subsequent application (Charge No: MISC/126/2026) was also refused, with the court directing proper procedure upon his return.

“Following a petition dated 23rd February 2026, the Inspector General of Police directed that the matter be transferred to the X-Squad, FCID, Alagbon. However, in a controversial turn of events, Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, now AIG Zone 2, allegedly insisted on retaining control over the matter.

“Following the clear directive of Court in charge no: MISC/126/2026 that proper procedure be followed by inviting Mr. Akanbi, he was enroute Nigeria from France through Benin Republic when he was eventually arrested in the Benin Republic but the Police on the claim that they have information that he was declared wanted by Jimoh Moshood.

“He was thereafter transferred to Nigeria on 17th April 2026. Since then, he has allegedly been subjected to degrading and inhumane treatment, including:

“Being publicly exposed in handcuffs by associates linked to Bashir Fakorede, particularly one Rukayat Omolara who is alleged to have over the internet with the photographs and video of Akanbi in hand and leg chain, a recording she made while he was in custody of Jimoh Moshood; denial of access to legal counsel and family; interrogation in the presence of individuals allegedly linked to the law firms of Muiz Banire (SAN) and Olumide Fusika (SAN), who are not law enforcement officers; personal supervision of his detention by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, including signing detention orders and placing him in a private cell at SCID Panti; continuous use of hand and leg restraints while in custody.

“Most alarming are intelligence reports suggesting a deliberate plot to poison Mr. Akanbi with substances designed to cause delayed fatal consequences after release.

“These actions, if proven, constitute egregious violations of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and fundamental human rights protections.

“In light of the foregoing, we hereby issue a 24-HOUR ULTIMATUM to the Inspector General of Police demanding: the immediate transfer of Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi to a neutral and independent investigative unit; unrestricted access to his legal representatives, family members, and medical professionals; a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the roles of all officers and individuals implicated, particularly Jimoh Moshood Olorundare; full compliance with subsisting court rulings and strict adherence to due process.

“Failure to comply within 24 hours will compel us to escalate this matter through all lawful protest and institutional mechanisms, including judicial actions, petitions to oversight bodies, and coordinated civil advocacy at both national and international levels.

“This is a defining moment for the rule of law in Nigeria. We call on the Inspector General of Police to act decisively and restore public confidence in the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.”

society

Obasa Hails Hon. Kehinde Joseph’s School Building Donation as Model of Effective Representation

Published

2 hours ago

April 19, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Obasa Hails Hon. Kehinde Joseph’s School Building Donation as Model of Effective Representation

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa has commended Hon. Kehinde Olaide Joseph, the Alimosho Constituency II lawmaker, for building and donating a well-equipped block of classrooms to Abaranje Secondary School in the Ikotun area of the state, describing the gesture as a perfect example of effective representation and commitment to community development.

At the commissioning ceremony on Saturday, April 18, Speaker Obasa said the classroom block will substantially improve teaching and learning, inspire hope, and the pursuit of excellence among students.

He lauded Hon. Joseph for prioritising education and youth development, adding that he had demonstrated what effective representation truly means by going beyond just legislation to deliver tangible infrastructure that directly impacts the lives of the people.

“The commissioning of this state-of-the-art facility today underscores the power of purposeful leadership. You have not just invested in brick and mortar; you have invested in the lives of many young people who will benefit from this invaluable access to quality education in an improved learning environment.

“I commend your thoughtfulness, passion for societal growth, and investment in this generational project, which underscores in no small measure your commitment to the advancement of education and the development of our communities. It also reinforces our collective resolve as a legislature to support initiatives that transform lives and build lasting legacies in every constituency across Lagos State,” he said.

The Speaker noted that the naming of the school after Mrs Tinubu is a fitting tribute to her passion for education, human capacity development, and youth empowerment through the Renewed Hope Initiative. He reaffirmed the Lagos State House of Assembly’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote quality education and grassroots development across all constituencies and urged other public office holders to emulate such selfless service to the people.

In his address, Hon. Joseph said, “This project is a direct extension of Senator (Mrs) Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative, which has consistently prioritised education through scholarships, digital learning centres, and various interventions that are giving Nigerian children renewed hope for a brighter future.”

Hon. Joseph added that he hopes that his modest effort will engender a renewed sense of excellence among the youths and further equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to national development.

society

Adron Homes Powers Ibadan Cultural Festival, Strengthens Cultural Influence

Published

8 hours ago

April 19, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Powers Ibadan Cultural Festival, Strengthens Cultural Influence

Adron Homes and Properties Limited delivered a commanding performance at the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, firmly establishing its dominance as Nigeria’s leading real estate brand. At the iconic Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, the company did not just sponsor the event, it took control of the narrative, transforming the cultural celebration into a powerful showcase of brand strength, innovation, and market authority.

With the presence of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, alongside a distinguished assembly of traditional rulers, high chiefs, and top government dignitaries, Adron Homes leveraged the high-profile platform to reinforce its influence at the intersection of culture, community, and modern development. The royal commendation from the Olubadan, who openly praised the company’s contribution, further cemented Adron’s growing stature as a key driver of cultural and socio-economic advancement.

Speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director, Mrs. Adenike Ajobo, projected a bold and uncompromising vision, emphasizing that Adron Homes is not just building houses but creating ecosystems where heritage, lifestyle, and modern living seamlessly converge. She reaffirmed that the company’s presence in Ibadan is strategically positioned to redefine the city’s residential landscape while embedding the brand deeply within the cultural fabric of its people.

Adron Homes’ activation proved to be one of the most dominant features of the festival. The “Adron Experience” zone became the epicenter of engagement, attracting massive crowds through immersive brand interactions, including the viral 360-degree video booth that drove widespread digital visibility. Simultaneously, the Ibadan Sales Team executed a results-driven engagement strategy, converting high foot traffic into real business opportunities while showcasing Adron’s expanding portfolio of modern, world-class estates transforming the city’s iconic skyline.

By seamlessly integrating its “Home Festival” concept into the cultural celebration, Adron Homes blurred the line between tradition and innovation, delivering an unmatched brand experience that competitors could not rival. As the festival drew to a close, one message was unmistakable, Adron Homes did not just participate; it dominated, setting a new benchmark for corporate cultural investment and reinforcing its position as the brand defining the future of real estate in Nigeria.