society
LAGOS, A VICTIM OF ITS OWN SUCCESS, SAYS SANWO-OLU
LAGOS, A VICTIM OF ITS OWN SUCCESS, SAYS SANWO-OLU
…Adebanjo, Falana, Okei-Odumakin, Adams, others renew agitation for restructuring
…As Governors, Yoruba leaders, activists, journalists celebrate late Afenifere spokesman, Yinka Odumakin
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday said Lagos is a victim of its success, noting that his administration is committed to advancing its course in providing security for lives and property to keep Lagos Safe, quality education among other amenities.
Governor, who expressed his support for true federalism said Lagos State Government has done a lot of things legally to ensure true federalism in Nigeria, adding that the State Government will advance the course by instructing the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to do more.
He made the statement at the first Comrade Yinka Odumakin lecture and book presentation in honour of the late human rights activist and National Publicity Secretary of the Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, who died last year.
Governor Sanwo-Olu who was represented by Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, said Odumakin is being celebrated today as a result of “his loyalty to a course that he believed in; loyalty to freedom, unity and everything that would make the common man have peace and enjoy everything that he is supposed to enjoy in Nigeria.”
He also expressed Lagos State Government support for the Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation set up to immortalise the late National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere.
“Lagos is simply a victim of its success. That everybody is coming to Lagos everyday shows that there is security in Lagos. We have done a lot of things legally to be able to get to where we are in terms of true federalism and whatever we need to do to advance the course, I will take the message to Governor Sanwo-Olu and he will instruct the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to do whatever we can do to advance this course.
“I know we are doing a lot talking about true federalism, State Police and all of that. We are going to push through so that whatever we can do for us to keep Lagos safe for other states to really look at what we are doing in Lagos, we will do,” the Governor said.
In his address, Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Benedict Alabi, said the book titled ‘Comrade’ which was written by the deceased widow, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, would help to preserve the legacy of Yinka Odumakin.
Speaking at the event, leader of Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo; Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams; right activist and lawyer, Chief Femi Falana (SAN), President of Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation and widow of the deceased, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin and others renewed the agitation for restructuring of the country and urged the Federal Government to restructure Nigeria before the 2023 general elections.
They also showered praise on the late Odumakin for his selfless service and passion for Nigeria and the common people during his lifetime, describing the late Afenifere spokesman as a committed, fearless, honest, defender of truth who fought for the future of Nigeria and the enthronement of social justice throughout his lifetime.
Adebanjo, who said he is still mourning the late Yinka Odumakin till date described him as a committed democrat, adding that he is yet to get a replacement for the late Afenifere National Publicity Secretary.
The Afenifere Leader, while speaking on the state of the nation, noted that without constitutional change, elections in the country would continue to be an exercise in futility.
Falana, who was the guest speaker at the occasion, called for the restoration of true federalism to continue the battle for a new Nigeria anchored on justice and fairness as the struggle for restructuring is for freedom.
He also commended Lagos State Government for showing leadership and championing true federalism through legal means by getting laudable judgement against the Federal Government on several issues.
A renowned clergy, Pastor Tunde Bakare noted that the greatest tribute to Odumakin is to continue to fight for the attainment of a society based on equity, fairness and justice which Yinka fought for during his lifetime.
Aare Adams said Nigeria can only get its acts together with restructuring, adding that the current constitutional arrangements was faulty and nothing could change with the 1999 Constitution foisted on Nigeria and Nigerians by the regime of General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
“The struggle for restructuring is the struggle for freedom. The challenge for the people that gathered here today is purely of a new Nigeria anchored on justice and fairness. This is the best way to immortalise Yinka Odumakin,” he said.
He also commended the wife of the deceased, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin for writing the 110 pages book on the life and times of her husband and for establishing the Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation in his memory.
In her remarks, Okei-Odumakin reiterated her pledge and commitment to continue the struggle and ideals of her late husband and urged the government to do a lot more in ensuring the health and security of the people.
She also appreciated people for their love and support since the demise of her husband.
society
HOPE BEYOND THE WALLS 2026: ASSOCIATION OF MODELS SUCCESSFULLY SECURES RELEASE OF AN INMATE, CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT
HOPE BEYOND THE WALLS 2026: ASSOCIATION OF MODELS SUCCESSFULLY SECURES RELEASE OF AN INMATE, CALLS FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT
The Association of Models (AOMNGO) proudly announces the successful completion of the first edition of Hope Beyond the Walls 2026, a humanitarian initiative dedicated to restoring hope and freedom to deserving inmates.
Despite enormous challenges, financial pressure, emotional strain, and operational stress, the organization remained committed to its mission. Through perseverance, faith, and collective support, one inmate has successfully regained freedom a powerful reminder that hope is stronger than circumstance.
This milestone did not come easily.
Behind the scenes were weeks of coordination, advocacy, fundraising, documentation, and intense engagement. There were moments of uncertainty, but the determination to give someone a second chance kept the vision alive.
Today, the Association of Models gives heartfelt appreciation to all partners and sponsors, both locally and internationally, who stood with us mentally, financially, morally, and physically.
Special Recognition and Appreciation To:
Correctional Service Zonal Headquarters Zone A Ikoyi
Esan Dele
Ololade Bakare
Ify
Kweme
Taiwo & Kehinde Solagbade
Segun
Mr David Olayiwola
Mr David Alabi
PPF Zion International
OlasGlam International
Razor
Mr Obinna
Mr Dele Bakare (VOB International)
Tawio Bakare
Kehinde Bakare
Hannah Bakare
Mrs Doyin Adeyemi
Shade Daniel
Mr Seyi United States
Toxan Global Enterprises Prison
Adeleke Otejo
Favour
Yetty Mama
Loko Tobi Jeannette
MOSES OLUWATOSIN OKIKIADE
Moses Okikiade
(Provenience Enterprise)
We also acknowledge the numerous businesses and private supporters whose names may not be individually mentioned but whose contributions were instrumental in achieving this success.
Your generosity made freedom possible.
A CALL TO ACTION
Hope Beyond the Walls is not a one-time event. It is a movement.
There are still many deserving inmates waiting for a second chance individuals who simply need financial assistance, legal support, and advocacy to reunite with their families and rebuild their lives.
The Association of Models is therefore calling on:
Corporate organizations
Local and international sponsors
Philanthropists
Faith-based organizations
Community leaders
Individuals with a heart for impact
to partner with us.
Our vision is clear:
To secure the release of inmates regularly monthly, quarterly, or during special intervention periods through structured support and transparent collaboration.
HOW TO SUPPORT
Interested partners and supporters can reach out via
Social Media: Official Handles Hope In Motion
Donations and sponsorship inquiries are welcome.
Together, we can turn difficult stories into testimonies of restoration.
ABOUT AOMNGO
The Association of Models (AOMNGO) is a humanitarian driven organization committed to advocacy, empowerment, and social impact. Through projects like Hope Beyond the Walls, the organization works tirelessly to restore dignity and create opportunities for individuals seeking a second chance.
“When we come together, walls fall and hope rises.”
For media interviews, partnerships, and sponsorship discussions, please contact the Association of Models directly.
SENATOR ADEOLA YAYI REGISTERS 4000 JAMB CANDIDATES
In continuation of his educational support initiatives and following established tradition, Senator Solomon Adeola (APC,Ogun West) has successfully paid for and enrolled 4000 indigent students for the 2026 Joint Admission Matriculation Board(JAMB) examination.
According to a release e-signed and made available to members of the League of Yewa-Awori Media Practitioners (LOYAMP) by High Chief Kayode Odunaro, Media Adviser to Senator Adeola and shared with (your mediu), the programme financed by the senator under the “SEN YAYI FREE JAMB 2026” ended on Saturday , February 21, 2026, with a total of 4000 candidates successfully enrolled with their PINs provided.
Commenting on the success of the programme, Senator Adeola said the programme is another leg of his personal educational empowerment for indigent but brilliant citizens preparatory to his scholarship and bursary facilitation for tertiary education institutions’ students.
“As far as I can help it, none of our children will miss educational opportunities arising out of adverse economic predicament of their parents or guardians”, he stated.
Successful candidates cut across all the three senatorial districts of Ogun State with 2183 coming from Ogun West, 1358 coming from Ogun Central and 418 from Ogun East.
Some of the candidates that applied and are yet to get their PINs due wrong information supplied in their profiles and being underage as discovered by JAMB and other reasons are being further assisted to see the possibility of getting their PINs.
The Free JAMB programme of the Senator that has been running for years is well received by appreciative beneficiaries and their parents.
Alhaji Suara Adeyemi from Ipokia Local Government whose daughter successfully got her PIN in the programme said the Senator’s gesture was a welcome financial relief for his family at this period after payment of numerous school fees of other siblings of the beneficiary seeking admission to higher institution.
Also posting on the social media handle of the Senator, a beneficiary Mr. Henry Olaitan, from Odeda LGA said that he would have missed doing the entry examination as his guardian cannot afford the fees for himself and two of his children.
House Committee Seeks Stronger Financial Backing for Federal Character Commission
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has reassured the commitment of her new leadership to reposition the Commission and strengthen enforcement of the federal character principle, despite prevailing funding challenges.
Hon. Omidiran made this known during the Commission’s budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Character at the National Assembly on Friday, February 19, 2026.
The Executive Chairman opened up on inadequate funding has continued to constrain the Commission’s statutory activities, including nationwide monitoring, compliance audits and enforcement measures across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“We are focused and determined to do the work that the Constitution and the President have entrusted us with,” Omidiran stated.
The FCC Boss, however, assured lawmakers that the Commission remains resolute in ensuring equity, fairness and balanced representation in line with its constitutional mandate.
“As a Commission, it is our responsibility to engage with relevant government parastatals and ministries to secure the necessary funding we require. We believe that with consultation and collaboration, it will be a successful venture for the Commission.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character, RT. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase, expressed deep concern over what he described as near-zero budgetary allocation to the Commission, stressing that such financial inadequacies severely undermine its operational effectiveness.
The Plateau State lawmaker assured the Commission of the Committee’s firm legislative backing in advocating for improved funding and strengthening the Commission’s capacity to fully exercise its constitutional mandate.
“We cannot reasonably expect the Federal Character Commission to enforce compliance across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies while grappling with insufficient funding,” Hon. Wase remarked.
“If we are genuinely committed to fairness, equity, and national cohesion, then we must be deliberate in adequately funding the institution established to safeguard these principles.
“As a Committee, we shall work closely with the leadership of the Commission to ensure that its budgetary provisions reflect the magnitude of its mandate. The era of skeletal or token funding must give way to realistic and sustainable financial support,” he concluded.
The budget defence session concluded on a note of renewed collaboration between the House of Representatives and the Commission, reflecting a shared determination to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance accountability, and promote equitable representation within Nigeria’s public service.
SIGNED:
Ademola Lawrence
Spokesperson,
Federal Character Commission
February 20, 2026
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