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ICPC: Freeing Hidden Funds By MDAs For Nigeria’s Development

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CUSTOMSGATE: $3 BILLION PROJECT RUNS INTO DISPUTE
 
 **Stopped N189bn Personnel Cost Diversion* 
In the past few years, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other-Related Offences Commission, as part of its statutory mandate, has been conducting systems study and review of ministries and organisations in the federal public service.
The overall objective of a system review is reform of the systems and procedures of public agencies with a view to identifying and eliminating, preventing, blocking and obstructing opportunities for corruption.
To achieve this, the exercise targets detecting areas of vulnerabilities, actual weaknesses, leakages and corruption risks and to recommend ways of strengthening these systems and removing the discretionary gaps and such opportunities for both individual and institutional malfeasance on public resources.
In addition, the review also targets shoring up public resources for government and make them available for utilisation in delivering good governance and the dividends of the country’s democratic processes.
Often time, these system study review leads to full blown investigation of egregious anomalies or enforcement measures like asset recovery and prosecution.
For instance, in 2019, the ICPC reviewed 208 agencies of government that are funded from the Federal Treasury and came up with outstanding results which included discovery of N31.8bn personnel cost surpluses for 2017 and 2018, and misapplication of N19.8bn and N9.2bn from Personnel Cost and Capital Fund respectively.
Consequent on these findings, N42bn unspent surplus allocations for Personnel Cost for 2019 alone was blocked from possible abuse and pilfering mostly from health and some educational institutions.
In 2020, the ICPC flagged N147bn personnel costs that would have been diverted by government agencies.
Similarly, between 2018 and 2020, the Commission flagged the sum of N220m that some MDAs had diverted from tax and other third party deductions such as union dues.
The implication of this is that if the ICPC had covered the entire civil service structure of all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government, the figures would be staggering.
In 2020 the ICPC extended the review with more focus on Health and Education sectors which touched the lives of ordinary citizens and are critical to meeting any of the internationally recognized development goals but is a major headache to budget execution.
In addition, it commenced a review of Educational Institutions indicted in the 2017 Auditor-General’s Annual Audit Report for a wider range of financial infractions.
In December 2019 the Federal Government launched the Open Treasury Portal onto which all payments from N5m and above by MDAs are uploaded for the purpose of transparency and public scrutiny.
Following this launch, the ICPC immediately began studying payment data on the Portal again with focus on educational and health institutions.
While at it, the issue of payments of feeding allowance to federal unity secondary schools was thrown up and it had to carry out further investigations on expenditure on meal subsidy releases that remained constant despite the lockdown during which schools were closed and students away at home.
In response to its findings, The Federal Government decided to set up the Transparency Portal Quality Assurance and Compliance Committee with ICPC as a member.
The Committee scrutinized payments on the portal and periodically sends lists of agencies with serious infraction for further review and sometimes investigation and enforcement action.
In the spirit of collaboration it reported back its findings on cases of fraud but despite confronting erring ministries and MDAs with federal circulars prohibiting these activities, the infractions continue.
This development had made it compelling for stronger measures to be put in place on the part of government and anticorruption agencies.
Speaking on the development, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other-Related Offences Commission, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN) said so far, the Commission has uncovered massive financial irregularities in the operations of 51 Federal Government health institutions in the country.
Owasanoye was appointed as the ICPC Chairman in 2017. Before then, he was a member/Executive Secretary of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption.
He was appointed into PACAC by President Muhammadu Buhari to promote the reform agenda of the government on the anti-corruption effort as well as advise the government on the prosecution of the war against corruption and the implementation of required reforms in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
Bringing with him a lot of expertise in the fight against corruption, the ICPC Boss told Directors of Finance and Accounts and Directors of Internal Audit during an interactive forum that the irregularities in these government agencies with more focus on Health and Education sectors.
He said the need to focus on health and education sectors was because the sectors touched the lives of ordinary citizens and are critical to meeting any of the internationally recognized development goals.
Based on the review, he said these agencies have become a major headache to budget execution as the ICPC discovered padding of nominal rolls including inclusion of outsourced staff; warrant releases in excess of actual personnel cost needs; inadequate budgetary overhead allocation; and inadequate or non-budgetary allocation for outsourced services.
Owasanoye also said there was widespread misuse of personnel cost allocation on non-personnel related expenditure especially on outsourced services (N4.5bn); unspent excess balances despite abuses and misuse (N4.86bn); fraudulent diversion by role players of funds through manipulation of account numbers of beneficiaries on the GIFMIS Platform.
The ICPC Boss also said there were also the issues of REMITA payment system not allowing for the matching of account numbers with account names and thus making fraud easy; inordinate balance staffing levels between Teaching Hospitals and Federal Medical Centres.
He said the ICPC discovered the payment of advances beyond approved limit of N200,000 to individuals’ accounts; advances for projects paid into project accountants’ personal accounts with commercial banks; and payments to individual staff/accountants for disbursement to ad-hoc employees/outsourced services and other employees
The ICPC Boss explained that there was payment to project officers/accountants to pay casual/onsite employees who are employed for short periods and cannot be registered on the platform; while cash was made for staff Duty Tour Allowance, Transport, collation of results and the like for personnel of paramilitary services under the Ministry of Interior for promotion exercise.
To address these challenges, he called on the Federal Government to stop the late release of budgetary allocation especially at the end of the year to check fraud and corrupt practices by Ministries Departments and Agencies of government.
He said that the practice where funds are released at the end of the year for execution of projects raises opportunity for frenzied expenditure, circumvention of procedure, fraud and corruption.
Over the years, the Federal Government due to the delay in passing the budget had always resorted to late release of fund to MDAs as a measure to increase the rate of budget implementation.
For instance, in the 2020 budget, the Federal Government had extended the timeline for the execution of capital project till March 31, 2021 as opposed to the December 31 budget cycle.
The extension was done after the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed had written to the parliament, seeking extension of the timeline.
But speaking on the development, the ICPC Boss said the appropriated funds should be released in time to allow for strict compliance with procurement procedure, adding that when this cannot be achieved, the fund should be deferred till the following fiscal year as government is a continuum.
He said, “MDAs should be advised to issue financial reports on time to enable completion of annual audit and publishing of result on time. Sanctions should be introduced for inordinate delays.
“Government should avoid late releases of budget allocation, especially at the end of the year as the practice raises opportunity for frenzied expenditure, circumvention of procedure, fraud and corruption.
“Appropriated funds should be released in time to allow for strict compliance with procurement procedure, otherwise deferred till following fiscal year as government is a continuum.”
He also recommended that unspent balances should be blocked and restrained/reversed immediately salaries are paid to prevent misuse.
The ICPC Boss also said there is need to prevent unauthorised editing of payroll information data on the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System platform for MDAs until after payment has been concluded by granting them view-only status.
He added that prevention of inflation of nominal rolls by MDAs for the 2021 Budget and beyond was vital to eliminate surplus allocation and releases, and other resultant infractions.
He called on the Federal Government to withdraw MDAs’ access to non-regular, pension and National Housing Insurance Scheme lines on GIFMIS and restrict same to IPPIS staff.
To eliminate fraudulent payments, Owasanoye called on the Federal Government to direct the application of the Bank Verification Number as a requirement in populating the Personnel Cost Budget Template and IPPIS data
He also urged the government to carry out a reform of the REMITA payment system to provide matching of account name with number for all payments.
He said banks should be directed to ensure that account names and numbers match before completing payment.
In the area of personnel, he advised that a staff audit should be conducted especially for educational and health institutions in order to establish actual staffing and staffing needs based on volume of work and appropriately right-size for cost efficiency.
He added that MDAs should be advised to issue financial reports on time to enable completion of annual audit and publishing of result on time, noting that sanctions should be introduced for inordinate delays.
He said, “The infractions established constitute the risks and building blocks for the inefficient public expenditure and pervasive corruption that bedevil our public finance.
“The continuity of these infractions challenges our professed political will to deal with impunity characterised by disobedience of laws and regulations.
“This is an existential threat to the nation and it has already negatively impacted stability and development because funds appropriated for major infrastructure and development projects are simply diverted or mismanaged the same way thus diminishing the hope of the people and the plans and programs of government.
“It starts with those of us in this room. This impunity cannot continue ad-infinitum. Nigeria cannot and will not survive it.
“We are at a turning point with a global pandemic whose end is uncertain, reduced public revenue but escalating citizen expectation, youth restiveness, insecurity and lack of or decaying critical infrastructure.
“In all of this government is striving to put money in the right place for the benefit of the people. The least we can do is to ensure that the expectations of the government and the people are met and we get value for money.
“We believe that infractions can no longer be ignored or excused on the pedestal of everyone is doing it.”
He said the ICPC is already investigating and prosecuting a number of egregious cases.
He added, “We have got to the point where we will prosecute without discrimination public officers found with any, including the simplest of infractions, so that we entrench zero tolerance for budget execution inefficiency which breeds corruption.
“The country should no longer slide into poverty if only you will be firm and refuse to tolerate culpability from anyone starting with yourselves.”
He stated that the ICPC will continue to collaborate with all critical stakeholders towards entrenching integrity in the polity and in public finance management.

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Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police

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Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police

…Seeks investigation of AIG Moshood time in Lagos

 

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in collaboration with the Centre for Citizens’ Rights has urged the Inspector General of Police to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, the President of the Coalition, Adeyemi Olorunsogo and its Secretary, Kolawole Abe Emmanuel, said Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.

The Coalition expressed concern over consistent and clear repeated interference of the Lagos police command in matters that are purely civil in nature, and actions that suggest a troubling pattern of bias in the handling of sensitive disputes.

It said: “Over the past few weeks, our coalition has repeatedly drawn the attention of the public to the disturbing conduct of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State, particularly under the leadership of the immediate past Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olorundare Jimoh Moshood.

“We, therefore, call on the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police to exercise utmost caution in the deployment and assignment of senior officers, particularly in situations where their previous conduct has generated serious public concern.

“We note that Mr. Moshood has now been posted away from Lagos. We also acknowledge the appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Tunji Disu, whose professional reputation in intelligence-led policing, crime management and strategic leadership has earned him public respect.

“In view of this new leadership and in the hope that professionalism and accountability will define the next phase of policing in Nigeria, this coalition has resolved to suspend its earlier planned protest until further notice.

“In situations where the police ought to remain neutral and professional, the conduct of the former Commissioner appeared to tilt the scale in favour of certain interests, thereby undermining public confidence in the impartiality of law enforcement.

“In February 2026, without a valid court order, without a formal invitation, and without a lawful warrant of arrest, the former Commissioner reportedly declared Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi wanted for murder.

“This declaration arose in the context of a family and community land dispute involving factions within the Ajiran community. Allegations bordering on murder is a very sensitive one as it does not only speak to law but sanctity of life and one accused of such if not cleared carries a life time burden.

“Following that declaration, the property of Alhaji Akanbi was reportedly destroyed by individuals who allegedly operated under the protection and watch of officers of the Lagos State Police Command.

“The Nigeria Police Force must never be seen as taking sides in private civil disputes. The integrity of law enforcement depends on neutrality, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.

“Declaring a citizen wanted without a lawful warrant, proper investigation, or court order raises serious concerns about abuse of police authority and must never become a precedent in a democratic society.

“While promotions within the Police Force fall under the authority of the Police Service Commission, we believe that officers whose actions have generated significant public concern should be carefully scrutinized before being entrusted with greater responsibility.

“The appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police presents an opportunity to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force. Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.

“Civil society exists to hold power accountable. Our intervention is not political; it is a duty to protect the rule of law and defend the rights of citizens. We wish the new Inspector-General of Police success in his assignment and urge him to live up to the expectations of millions of Nigerians who desire a police force that is professional, impartial, and accountable.”

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Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

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Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

 

A governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has unveiled a comprehensive 17-point agenda outlining his policy direction ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.

Ajadi, who described leadership as a “relay race,” said his proposed administration would focus on continuity, consolidation, and innovation, building on existing development initiatives while introducing fresh ideas aimed at strengthening public trust and delivering measurable impact under what he termed the “Omituntun 3.0” framework.

The PDP chieftain said his manifesto prioritises industrial growth, agricultural expansion, security enhancement, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners, among other key sectors.

According to him, the agenda is designed to reposition Oyo State for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life for residents, while deepening grassroots democracy and inclusive governance.

He added that his vision centres on proactive governance that anticipates challenges and leverages strategic partnerships, technology, and policy stability to drive long-term development across the state.

Ajadi also pledged to strengthen public service delivery and ensure transparent, participatory governance that reflects the aspirations of the people of Oyo State.

Below is the full statement of the agenda released by Amb. Ajadi.

Oyo State 2027 Governorship Aspirant Ambassador Ajadi Unveils 17-Point Agenda

…Ajadi Reveals His Manifesto for the Good People of Oyo State

If I become the governor of Oyo State, my approach will be guided by continuity, consolidation, and innovation. Leadership is a relay race, and my commitment is to carry the baton forward—building on good works and introducing fresh ideas that deepen public trust and deliver measurable impact under the Omituntun 3.0 initiative.

My Core Priorities Include:

ENSURE CONTINUITY OF PROGRESS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

I will strengthen existing development frameworks, promote policy stability, and introduce innovative solutions where gaps exist. Governance is a continuum, and sustainable progress requires building on tested foundations rather than dismantling them.

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION AND ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

To reduce overdependence on federal allocation, my administration will pursue a deliberate industrial revolution through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). We will revive and expand industrial zones, attract local and foreign investors, and provide incentives such as tax holidays, infrastructure support, and land access. This will stimulate local production, job creation, and economic resilience.

AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SECURITY

We will reposition agriculture as one of the major economic drivers by supporting farmers with inputs, mechanisation, credit facilities, and market access. Large-scale farming of cassava, rice, cocoa, cotton, maize, and other crops will be encouraged, alongside agro-processing and export. Our goal is to make Oyo State food-secure within our first term.

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

Rural development will be prioritised through road construction, ultramodern markets, water supply, electrification, and healthcare.

ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION

We will implement Operation “No Single Pothole” policy on our major roads and some inner roads to ensure consistent road maintenance across urban and rural areas. Strategic partnerships with construction firms will be explored for major industrial and border roads, with mutually beneficial tolling arrangements where necessary.

STRENGTHENING SECURITY ARCHITECTURE

Security of lives and property remains fundamental. My administration will strengthen community policing, energise community watch structures, deploy technology for crime monitoring, and improve coordination among security agencies. Increased support for the Security Trust Fund and collaboration with private security operators will ensure safer communities.

Oyo State will continue to develop a modern, safe, and sustainable urban transportation system by introducing electric and hybrid cars and buses equipped with smart technologies such as GPS tracking, digital displays, CCTV, collision-avoidance systems, and cashless payments to reduce congestion, emissions, and operating costs.

The transport system will be inclusive and people-centred, featuring low-floor buses, ramps, wheelchair spaces, and audio-visual announcements to ensure safe and comfortable mobility for all residents, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children.

Through sleek modern designs based on the existing built terminals, strong safety standards, and transparent governance, urban transportation will drive economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life across Oyo State.

This initiative will be achieved in partnership with the existing transport management body in Oyo State.

PUBLIC UTILITIES, WATER, AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

Provision of public waterworks through proper funding, infrastructure maintenance, and effective management. On waste management, modern legislation, private sector participation, recycling initiatives, and environmental sanitation will be pursued to create jobs and improve public health.

PARTY UNITY AND GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY

Party unity, internal democracy, and grassroots engagement will be strengthened. A united PDP is essential for peace, cohesion, and collective progress.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue the trust in leadership by delivering a government that truly serves the people—one that listens, acts, and remains accountable. I am ready to carry the baton forward with loyalty, competence, and renewed energy for a better and more prosperous Oyo State.

EDUCATION: BUILDING A FUTURE-READY GENERATION

Education will be the backbone of Oyo State’s development, modelled after systems in developed countries where education drives innovation and economic growth.

Key Reforms:

Free and compulsory basic education with strong enforcement and incentives for school attendance.

Teacher retraining and continuous welfare upgrades, including continuous professional development, competitive salaries, and performance-based rewards.

Digital classrooms and smart schools, equipped with broadband internet, tablets, and a conducive environment for students across the state.

Technical and vocational education (TVET) aligned with industry needs, which will fall under the dual education system.

University–industry partnerships to promote research, innovation, and job placement for graduates.

Education loans and scholarship schemes for indigent but brilliant students.

Outcome:
A globally competitive workforce equipped with practical skills, innovation capacity, and strong civic values.

YOUTH, SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH TALENTS

As part of my commitment to youth development, my administration will prioritise youth participation in sports as a strategic tool for building a healthy, disciplined, and productive generation. We will invest in grassroots sports to improve physical and mental well-being, nurture talent, and instil values such as discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect for fair play. Through sports, we will keep our youths positively engaged, reduce crime and social vices, and open pathways to education, employment, and professional careers. This agenda will also strengthen social inclusion, community cohesion, and collective pride, positioning sports as a pillar of sustainable development.

Drawing inspiration from developed countries that value talent, sports and entertainment will be positioned as part of projecting our talents who are looking for international sports participation and scouting.

Through a strengthened Ministry of Sports and Entertainment:

Grassroots sports development in schools and local communities to discover and nurture talent early.

World-class sports infrastructure, including mini stadiums in all schools, training academies, and community sports centres.

Sports scholarships and talent scouting programmes, connecting Oyo athletes to international clubs and competitions.

Creative industry hubs for music, film, fashion, and digital content creation.

Entertainment grants and low-interest loans for young creatives.

Annual international festivals to attract tourism, investors, and global attention.

Outcome:
Thousands of jobs created, global recognition for Oyo State talents.

EMPOWER YOUTHS AND WOMEN

Youth and women empowerment will be central to our agenda through skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship support, provision of access to soft loans, and funding for micro, small, and medium enterprises through partnership with financial institutions. Empowering these groups is key to reducing unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.

HEALTHCARE: A MODERN, ACCESSIBLE, AND PEOPLE-CENTRED SYSTEM

Healthcare will be built on multiple levels to ensure access, affordability, and quality.

Key Initiatives:

Universal health insurance coverage for all residents, especially the vulnerable.

Upgrading primary healthcare centres to operate 24/7 with modern equipment and trained personnel.

Specialist hospitals and diagnostic centres across the zones of the state.

Medical tourism within Oyo State, reducing the need for foreign treatment.

Public-private partnerships (PPP) in healthcare delivery.

Incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses, including housing and career development opportunities.

Outcome:
A healthier population, reduced medical expenses abroad, and increased life expectancy.

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT: MODERN CITIES, DECENT LIVING

Inspired by urban planning models in developed countries, Oyo State will undergo a visible transformation.

Key Policies:

Development of high-rise and low-cost modern housing estates in Oyo State.

Affordable housing schemes for civil servants, artisans, business owners, and low-income earners.

Smart city planning, including green spaces, reliable power, water supply, and efficient waste management.

Urban renewal programmes to redevelop slums and ageing neighbourhoods.

Mortgage and rent-to-home-ownership schemes in partnership with financial institutions.

Existing home ownership will be censored and integrated into the existing Oyo State map planning.

Outcome:
A cleaner, modern, and visually attractive Oyo State that supports economic growth and improved quality of life.

SECURITY: SAFE COMMUNITIES, STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Security will be approached using global best practices from community policing models in some developed countries.

Security Strategy:

Technology-driven security, including CCTV cameras, drones, and smart surveillance systems, will be integrated into the existing security system.

Strengthened community policing, working closely with traditional rulers and local leaders.

Rapid response units across all the local government areas of Oyo State.

Youth engagement and employment programmes to address the root causes of crime.

Improved welfare and training for security personnel.

Outcome:
Safer communities, protected investments, and renewed confidence among residents and investors.

RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ELECTRICITY:

We will deliver reliable and affordable electricity by investing in independent power projects, renewable energy, and modern distribution systems to guarantee steady power for homes, industries, hospitals, schools, and investors. This will attract foreign investors to choose Oyo State as their investment base and also eradicate dark environments.

Dedicated power supply will be provided to industrial clusters, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions to boost productivity and service delivery. Stable electricity will reduce dependence on generators, lower business costs, strengthen security infrastructure, and accelerate sustainable economic growth in Oyo State.

FAIR WAGES AND TIMELY CAREER PROGRESSION FOR SERVING CIVIL SERVANTS

Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges fair wages and entitlements that factor in prevailing economic realities for the workforce.
As a responsible and conscientious government, the Ajadi political ideology has gone ahead to provide a policy hedge for this, prioritising civil servants’ conditions of service.
By this, their salaries will continue to be paid regularly and promptly in line with established civil service rules.
In addition, merit-based promotions will be conducted as and when due, and there will be no issue of administrative delays or bureaucratic bottlenecks denying civil servants merited career progression.

Why will an Ajadi-led government keep faith with regular salary payment and promotion?
First, it is scriptural that a worker is worthy of his wages. In other words, anyone who has laboured to serve the state deserves decent wages for such labour.
Besides, regular payment of salaries is a sure way of sustaining workers’ morale, and my administration will not toy with it, knowing that the service is the engine room of productivity in any state economy.

Through these, therefore, an Ajadi-led government will sustain morale within the civil service, strengthen institutional efficiency, and guarantee that workers retire with dignity.

PENSIONERS AND RETIRED CIVIL SERVANTS: HONOURING SERVICE, SECURING DIGNITY

An Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo-led government would be run on equity and compassion, especially when it comes to pensions for retirees.
From the outset, the administration would put in place a robust pension payment framework that will not allow backlogs, but will instead be calculated upfront and paid as and when due.
This will enable retirees to plan their daily sustenance and also free government from running helter-skelter when it is time to pay.
Pensioners have served with their energy and time and should not be subjected to a beggarly status or have their lives endangered while seeking to receive what is both legally and morally theirs.

In connection with the above, our starting point is to seek to clear all verified outstanding pension and gratuity backlogs.
The modality for a transparent process has already been worked out and would go into operation upon the inauguration of the administration.
One of such modalities is the institution of a sustainable Pension Funding Framework aimed at ensuring uninterrupted and stress-free pension payment on a regular basis.

Digital and Seamless Pension Administration

Knowing very well how bureaucracy can affect genuinely thought-out government policies, the administration of Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has gone ahead to plan for the introduction and expansion of e-payment systems and digital verification platforms.
This will both checkmate fraud and fast-track pension payment for all entitled Oyo retirees.

Health and Social Support for Retirees

Retired civil servants will be integrated into affordable healthcare schemes, while welfare support programmes will be designed to assist elderly pensioners in managing their health conditions.
The policy, already formulated, will, however, accommodate the input of pensioners’ unions in implementation.

Our Watchword

Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges that retirement will not mean rejection and that years of service will never be rewarded with neglect. Pensioners will be treated as partners in development and accorded the same respect and priority as serving workers.

An Ajadi administration will protect earned benefits, preserve dignity, and guarantee peace of mind for every retired civil servant in Oyo State.

TRANSPARENT, INCLUSIVE, AND PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE

I hereby sign an undertaking to be held accountable and prosecuted in a court of law for failing to fulfil the electoral promises that I hereby make to the citizens of Oyo State.
Anti-corruption measures will be institutionalised, public service delivery digitised, and citizen feedback will be encouraged. Women, youths, and marginalised groups will be actively included in political and leadership spaces to ensure equity and shared ownership of governance.

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Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

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Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

“A father’s blessing is tied to your breakthrough and can change life’s patterns.”

Dishonouring one’s father—whether biological or spiritual—can disrupt the source of a person’s blessings and hinder progress in life. According to the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Christopher Okafor, honouring one’s father is a spiritual principle that preserves destiny and unlocks divine favour.

Dr. Okafor made this statement during the Sunday Divine Intervention and Breakthrough Service held on March 15, 2026, at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.

The Power of a Father’s Blessing

In his teaching, the cleric described a father as a spiritual source.
According to him, when individuals respect and honour their source, they create a pathway for blessings, stability, and the fulfillment of their inheritance in life.

“One of the most dangerous practices for a believer is dishonouring a father,” he said.

“When the source is honoured, life flows well and destiny is preserved.”

He warned that when a father releases a negative declaration, it can become difficult for a person to experience lasting success, regardless of their level of hard work or skill.

“You may be hardworking,” he noted, “but if the source is polluted, progress can become difficult.”
Patterns Passed Through Families
Continuing his sermon in the series “Patterns – Part 2,” Dr. Okafor explained that many individuals struggle with recurring challenges within their families.

He suggested that hostility, blackmail, or disrespect toward authority figures may sometimes reflect deeper unresolved patterns within family lineages.

According to him, such patterns can affect a person’s progress until they are consciously addressed.

Breaking Negative Patterns

The preacher emphasized that the blessing of a father can interrupt negative family cycles.

Regardless of the patterns affecting a family, he said, a sincere blessing from a father figure has the spiritual authority to shift circumstances and open new paths for success.

He further advised believers to live responsibly, follow divine instructions, and remain prayerful.
“When you honour your fathers and walk in obedience,” he said, “God releases guidance and answers prayers speedily.”

Service Announcement

Meanwhile, Grace Nation Worldwide has announced that its annual flagship family liberation conference, “Harvest of Babies 2026,” will hold in the last week of March at the church’s international headquarters in Ojodu Berger, Lagos.

According to church officials, the conference is designed for couples and individuals trusting God for the fruit of the womb. The event is expected to attract participants from different parts of the world seeking spiritual support and prayer for miracle children.

Dr. Okafor encouraged expectant parents and families believing for children to participate in the prophetic gathering, expressing faith that God will bring transformation and testimonies to many lives.

 

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

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