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Ekiti CP defends Farotimi’s arrest in Lagos

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Ekiti CP defends Farotimi’s arrest in Lagos

Ekiti CP defends Farotimi’s arrest in Lagos

 

The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adeniran Akinwale, has defended the arrest of the Lagos-based human rights activist, Dele Farotimi for alleged cyberbullying and defamation.

In an interview with our correspondent on Tuesday, Akinwale said the alleged offences committed by Farotimi included “defamation of character, cyberstalking and other things” noting that those two allegations were “fully established.”

He said, “We are investigating him (Farotimi). If the suspect is arrested, we will bring him for investigation. We will conduct our investigation and will be able to know his level of culpability or otherwise.”

Reacting to the arrest in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Tuesday, the Director General of the Labour Party presidential campaign council, Akin Osuntokun, condemned how the lawyer was arrested.

 

 

He expressed concerns about the alleged involvement of Chief Afe Babalola whom he described as an illustrious personality.

Osuntokun said, “I know Dele Farotimi as a junior I was a bit disturbed about the fact that the police commissioner in Ekiti state would come to Lagos to come and arrest someone about cybercrime which is always a euphemism for whatever grouse the police has. Chief Afe Babalola is an illustrious citizen of Nigeria, his name being attached to what has happened.

“I am sure that Babalola will not get involved in something like this. Something is missing somewhere. The method with which he was apprehended, I won’t know how that is consistent with due process.”

 

 

Meanwhile, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress in the 2023 elections, Omoyele Sowore, condemned the arrest of Farotimi stressing that the process was undemocratic.

Sowore in a tweet on Tuesday demanded the release of the lawyer while noting that the police should avoid being used to settle personal scores.

He tweeted, “I just spoke with Kunle Akinwale, the Commissioner of @PoliceNG Ekiti State Command. He admits that they arrested @DeleFarotimi and that he’s being driven from Lagos to Ekiti by road.

“I told him categorically that this constituted an abuse of @PoliceNG’s powers and that this was a civil case that ought not to have warranted police intervention. When he admitted to me that they were driving him from Lagos, I asked him repeatedly, “Did he kill someone?”

“He even said he was still under investigation for “cybercrime.” This illegal arrest was staged by one of Nigeria’s most senior lawyers, Afe Babalola SAN. This is just despicable.’

Recall that Farotimi had in a press statement on Monday accused some police operatives suspected to be from Ekiti of planning to arrest him over an issue regarding the content of a book he published.

 

He also alleged that the police deployed several antics that suggested an attempt to abduct him rather than invite him for questioning on any matter.

 

The statement read in part, “I must reiterate that I am a law-abiding citizen. I have consistently honoured every lawful invitation by the Nigeria Police Force. However, these recent developments – targeting my associates, tracking my phone, and harassing innocent individuals-are deeply concerning.

“It has therefore become clear, and it is no longer hidden, that there are policemen from the Ekiti State Police Command who are currently working out of Zone 2 Police Station on a mission to abduct me. Now, this leads me to ask a question: if I faithfully attended the police station as invited, why not invite me in the same manner again?

“Assuming there is even a charge, it does not take a lawyer to point out that law enforcement officers going around arresting people connected to me and intimidating them is not the proper way to carry out a lawful arrest. So, I have good reason to be fearful for my life, my liberty, and even the well-being of those around me.”

PUNCH Online reported on Tuesday that Sowore had in a post on his X handle announced the arrest of Farotimi.

Sowore, who disclosed that Elumelu filed a petition accusing Farotimi of defamation, called for the lawyer’s immediate release, emphasising that the police should not be used to settle personal disputes.

Sowore wrote, “I just learned that Dele Farotimi was arrested by the Nigerian Police over a petition by Tony Elumelu of UBA Group alleging Dele defamed him.

“It is pertinent that the Nigerian police are notified that the institution cannot continue to be used to settle personal scores, and we, the citizens of Nigeria, would no longer tolerate such a situation.

 

Therefore, the police at Zone 2 in Lagos are advised to release Barrister Dele Farotimi immediately.”

Meanwhile, the Zone 2 Public Relations Officer, Umma Ayuba, in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Tuesday, disclosed that contrary to claims that Farotimi was arrested by operatives of the Zone, the human rights lawyer was not in their custody.

She however confirmed that Farotimi was invited about two weeks ago over an allegation and that he honoured the invitation and was since released.

“I have checked our records, he is not in our custody. He was invited about two weeks ago and was released after honouring our invitation,” Ayuba said.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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