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Fuji Star, King Saheed Osupa Announces Fountain Busari Basit Babatunde (Orisun Ayo)’s 2027 Assembly Bid At Oyo Ramadan Lecture

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Fuji Star, King Saheed Osupa Announces Fountain Busari Basit Babatunde (Orisun Ayo)’s 2027 Assembly Bid At Oyo Ramadan Lecture

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)

 

A Ramadan public lecture in Oyo took on added political significance this week after Fuji music icon King (Dr.) Saheed Osupa Akorede (Olufimo I) used the gathering to publicly announce the political ambition of Fountain Busari Basit Babatunde, popularly known as Orisun Ayo, ahead of the 2027 Oyo State House of Assembly elections.

 

The announcement came during the 2026 Ramadan Public Lecture organized by the Orisun Ayo Concerned Movement, held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Atiba Hall in Oyo, Oyo State. Although Osupa—who served as the event’s Chief Host—was unable to attend physically due to his ongoing trip to the United States, he joined the event through a video call that was broadcast to attendees inside the hall.

 

During the call, the Fuji star addressed the audience and formally declared Orisun Ayo’s intention to contest a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly in 2027, drawing applause from participants gathered for the Ramadan program.

 

A Ramadan Lecture With Political Undertones :

The event itself was structured as a faith-based public lecture designed to encourage reflection during the holy month of Ramadan. This year’s theme, *“Youths, Political Participation and Decision Making,”* reflected growing conversations across Nigeria about youth involvement in governance and civic leadership.

 

The lecture was hosted by Fountain Busari Basit Babatunde (Orisun Ayo), who currently serves as the *Personal Assistant to King Saheed Osupa*. Through his Orisun Ayo Concerned Movement, Babatunde has been building a grassroots presence in Oyo, organizing community engagements that blend social advocacy with youth mobilization.

 

While the lecture focused on religious reflection and civic responsibility, Osupa’s remote appearance introduced a political dimension that immediately became the day’s most talked-about moment.

 

Speaking through the live video call, the musician acknowledged the significance of youth participation in politics and used the opportunity to publicly affirm Babatunde’s political ambitions.

 

Scholars Lead Conversations On Youth And Governance :

Beyond the announcement, the lecture featured Islamic scholars and community leaders who addressed the relationship between faith, leadership, and civic duty.

 

The keynote lecture was delivered by Fodilat Sheikh Abdulafeez Sarumi, the Al-Mufty of Oyo Land, who served as the Host Lecturer for the event. His address centered on the responsibilities of young Muslims to engage constructively in political processes while maintaining ethical and moral standards.

 

Another featured speaker was Sheikh Yusfau Ibrahim Adebayo Ebunoluwaapo*, an Al-Hareery scholar, who joined the program as Guest Lecturer. He expanded on the theme by emphasizing the role of education, discipline, and community responsibility in preparing young people for leadership.

 

Together, the speakers framed political participation not simply as an ambition for power, but as a duty tied to community development and responsible governance.

 

A Platform For Community Engagement :

The program was presided over by *His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I*, the Alaafin of Oyo, who served as the Royal Father of the Day. His presence added traditional authority to the gathering and underscored the event’s broader community significance.

 

Also contributing to the program were the event’s masters of ceremony, *Yusuff Olatunji (Teejay)* and *Abd. Rahman Olawale (Joy)*, who guided the proceedings and facilitated interactions between speakers and attendees.

 

The lecture drew a diverse audience of religious leaders, youth groups, community stakeholders, and political observers from across Oyo and neighboring areas.

 

From Community Organizing To Political Ambition :

For Babatunde—widely known in local circles as Orisun Ayo—the event also highlighted a transition from community activism to formal political participation.

 

Through initiatives tied to the Orisun Ayo Concerned Movement, he has increasingly positioned himself within youth mobilization spaces in Oyo. The Ramadan lecture, particularly with its focus on youth participation in governance, appeared to align with the broader narrative surrounding his emerging political aspirations.

 

Osupa’s public endorsement during the program adds another layer to that trajectory. As a highly respected Fuji musician with deep roots in Oyo State, the entertainer’s support may carry cultural and political weight among segments of the electorate.

 

Looking Ahead To 2027 :

With the 2027 election cycle still some distance away, Babatunde’s declaration signals an early start to political positioning in the state. Events like the Ramadan lecture demonstrate how religious and community gatherings can double as platforms for civic dialogue and political signaling.

 

For attendees at Atiba Hall, the program ultimately blended spiritual reflection with conversations about leadership and the future of youth participation in governance.

 

As discussions around the next electoral cycle gradually begin across Oyo State, the moment captured during the Ramadan lecture—Osupa’s remote announcement and Orisun Ayo’s emerging candidacy—may prove to be an early marker in what could become a closely watched political journey.

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Ajadi Visits Ilaji Resort, Commends Sanusi’s Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

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Ajadi Visits Ilaji Resort, Commends Sanusi’s Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has lauded the transformative impact of private-sector investment on the state’s economy, following a courtesy visit to Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort in Akanran, Ibadan.

Ajadi, who was warmly received on Sunday by the resort’s founder, Chief Dr Dotun Sanusi, described the facility as a symbol of what visionary leadership and indigenous enterprise can achieve in driving rural development, job creation, and tourism growth.

Speaking during the visit, Ajadi commended Sanusi’s commitment to Oyo State’s economic advancement, noting that Ilaji Resort stands as a model for sustainable development outside urban centres.

“What I have seen here today is not just a business venture, but a bold statement of belief in Oyo State’s potential,” Ajadi said. “Chief Sanusi has demonstrated that with vision, dedication, and strategic investment, we can transform our rural communities into thriving economic hubs. This aligns perfectly with my agenda to expand opportunities, empower our people, and sustain development across the state.”
[4/13, 6:34 PM] johnsonakinpelu: The PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised that his governorship ambition is rooted in supporting initiatives that promote local enterprise, tourism, and youth employment, adding that partnerships between government and private investors would be a priority if elected.

In his remarks, Sanusi, popularly known as Ilaji, expressed delight at hosting Ajadi and his entourage, describing the visit as encouraging for investors in the state.

“I am honoured to receive Ambassador Ajadi here at Ilaji Resort,” Sanusi said. “This project was born out of a desire to give back to society, create jobs for our youths, and showcase the rich cultural and tourism potential of Oyo State. When leaders recognise and support such efforts, it strengthens our resolve to do more.”

Sanusi further stressed the importance of continuity in governance and policies that encourage investment, noting that consistent support from government actors is crucial for long-term economic growth.

The visit also attracted notable political stakeholders, including the former Ona-Ara Local Government Chairman, Hon. Taiwo Oke, Hon. Bass Oloko, and Ajadi’s personal assistant, Kilamuwaye Badmus, among others.

Observers at the event described the meeting as a convergence of political leadership and entrepreneurial vision, highlighting the growing importance of collaboration in addressing developmental challenges in Oyo State.

Analysts see Ajadi’s visit to Ilaji Resort as part of his broader engagement with key stakeholders across sectors, as he continues to build momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

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FOPCHEN Calls for Dialogue as Court Fixes May 28 for Continuation

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FOPCHEN Calls for Dialogue as Court Fixes May 28 for Continuation

OTA, OGUN STATE — Proceedings in a widely followed legal case resumed on March 24, 2026, at the High Court of Ogun State, Ota Division, ending with a fresh adjournment as the court fixed May 28, 2026, for continuation.

During the session, legal representatives for all parties restated their positions and addressed preliminary matters, laying the groundwork for more substantive arguments at the next hearing. Observers noted that the case continues to attract significant public attention due to its perceived implications for law, culture, and societal values.

The Foundation for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Nigeria (FOPCHEN) used the occasion to reiterate its call for constructive national dialogue. The group emphasized that while the judicial process must be respected, broader societal engagement remains essential.

 

According to the organization, issues relating to values, responsibility, and cultural identity should not be confined solely to courtroom deliberations but should involve active participation from various sectors of society.
Legal analysts present at the proceedings described the matter as one with far-reaching implications, noting that arguments advanced in court could shape future interpretations surrounding sensitive cultural and moral questions.

 

The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the case to May 28, granting all parties time to refine their submissions and respond to issues raised during the hearing.

 

As anticipation builds ahead of the next court date, Nigerians across different sectors continue to monitor developments closely, keen to see how the judiciary navigates the delicate balance between constitutional rights and cultural expectations.

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023 

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023

By: Boye Ola 

 

The Centre for Responsible Governance (CRG) has called on political actors and interest groups to desist from what it described as needless witch-hunting of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, following renewed controversies surrounding his National Youth Service Corps records.

 

The organisation noted that the clarification by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) regarding the matter is not a recent development, as a formal verification letter had already been issued as far back as May 23, 2023.

 

 

The letter, referenced NYSC/CCD/VER/10/5.1/VOL1/02, had already addressed and cleared the questions surrounding the Deputy Speaker’s NYSC records.

Reacting to the renewed debate, the spokesman of the Centre,

 

Obande George, said it was troubling that issues which had already been clarified by a competent national institution were being resurrected for political purposes.

According to him, the time has come for political actors to move away from destructive engagements and concentrate on building the nation.

 

“It is important to note that the NYSC had already issued a verification letter dated May 23, 2023 addressing the matter.

Reopening issues that have already been clarified by a competent authority suggests that some individuals are more interested in political witch-hunting than in national progress,” George said.

 

The CRG stressed that democracy thrives when institutions are respected and their determinations are accepted in good faith rather than constantly questioned for political advantage.

George also commended the Deputy Speaker for demonstrating maturity and composure throughout the controversy, despite what he described as sustained provocations.

 

“Honourable Benjamin Kalu has shown remarkable calm and maturity in the face of intense public scrutiny and political provocation.

 

Instead of engaging in unnecessary public confrontation, he allowed institutions to speak through their records.”

 

The Centre warned that Nigeria’s political culture must evolve beyond constant character attacks and sensational allegations, which often distract public officials from their responsibilities.

 

According to the organisation, the country’s development requires constructive engagement among political actors rather than continuous attempts to discredit opponents.

 

“Nigeria cannot move forward if political energy is constantly spent on digging up allegations and amplifying rumours. Our leaders and political actors must redirect their focus to governance, policy and nation building.”

 

CRG therefore urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from credible institutions and avoid spreading speculative claims that could damage reputations or destabilise public discourse.

 

The organisation reiterated that respect for due process and institutional integrity remains essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

 

@The Centre for Responsible Governance, Email: [email protected], Instagram: crgngo6, Twitter: crgng06, Threads: crgngo6

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