Civil Rights Group Urges Tinubu to Probe Defence Minister Over Alleged Abuse of Office

The Civil Rights and Anti-Corruption Network (CRACON) has called on President Bola Tinubu to set up a special investigative committee to probe Defence Minister Muhammed Abubakar Badaru over allegations of abuse of office and conflict of interest.

In a statement on Wednesday by CRACON’s coordinator, Folashade Olumiya, the group urged the president to demonstrate consistency in his administration’s fight against corruption by applying the same scrutiny to Badaru as was done in the case of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu.

“The president cannot afford to be selective in the war against corruption. If a committee was set up to investigate Betta Edu over allegations of financial misconduct, then the same must be done in the case of Defence Minister Muhammed Badaru,” the petition reads.

CRACON’s demand follows an earlier petition by the Young Guardians of Accountability (YGA), which accused Badaru of violating federal laws by maintaining active business interests while holding public office. The group alleged that the minister continues to run private companies, including a Bureau de Change, despite clear legal restrictions.

According to CRACON, the allegations against Badaru, if left unaddressed, could erode public trust in the government’s anti-corruption stance.

“This administration has repeatedly assured Nigerians that no one is above the law. However, failure to subject the defence minister to the same level of scrutiny as others accused of corruption will create the impression that the fight against corruption is selective,” the statement added.

“We cannot afford a situation where certain individuals are investigated and prosecuted while others are shielded from accountability.”

The anti-corruption watchdog insists that beyond the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) investigating Badaru, a presidential committee must be constituted to ensure transparency and accountability.

“The Defence Ministry plays a crucial role in national security, and the integrity of its leadership must be beyond reproach. We call on the president to take immediate action, as anything less will send the wrong message to Nigerians about his administration’s commitment to fighting corruption,” Olumiya added.

The group also raised concerns about potential national security risks posed by the minister’s alleged private business dealings.

“It is deeply troubling that the individual responsible for overseeing Nigeria’s defence and security is allegedly involved in financial dealings that could pose a conflict of interest. This is not just about corruption—it is about the safety and security of the nation. If the allegations are true, then Mr Badaru must step aside to allow a full and independent investigation,” the statement read.

CRACON further urged the president to reassure Nigerians that his government remains committed to upholding accountability across all sectors.

“We are calling on the president to act decisively and prove that his administration’s anti-corruption agenda is not just rhetoric. The credibility of this government is at stake, and Nigerians are watching closely.”

ONIROYIN SUPPORT INITIATIVE MOURNS THE PASSING OF ITS CONVENER, OLATUNDE AYINDE OLADUNJOYE

Oniroyin Support Initiative, a not-for-profit, humanitarian and non-governmental organisation dedicated to providing financial support for the families of deceased journalists and those with health challenges in Ogun State, is deeply saddened by the passage of our cherished Convener, Comrade Olatunde Ayinde Oladunjoye.

Comrade Oladunjoye bid the world farewell on Friday, 4th April 2025, following a brief illness. He was aged 58.

His passage was a devastating blow to our young but promising organisation, especially coming barely a month after the successful launch of our first empowerment programme for selected families of deceased journalists and those with health issues at the Basic Trust International, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta. The event, which held specifically on Thursday, 27th February, 2025, also featured free medical screenings, medications, and consultations for beneficiaries and scores of guests.

Today, we mourn the loss of Comrade Oladunjoye, an extraordinary individual, visionary personality, and compassionate advocate whose tireless dedication touched and inspired countless lives. As Convener of Oniroyin Support Initiative, he embodied compassion, resilience, and a fierce commitment to creating positive change. His vision brought succour to those in need, and his indomitable spirit lifted souls in despair.

During his eventful lifetime, Comrade Oladunjoye proved to be a true champion of worthy causes. His selflessness and generosity inspired us to pursue our noble objectives, which essentially border on providing financial support to families left behind by journalists who have passed away.

We reckon that Comrade Olatunde Oladunjoye was many things to many people. He was a philanthropist, journalist, mediapreneur, an impactful politician, loyal friend, dreaded foe, political cum human rights activist, blunt critic, devoted supporter and a committed family man. He was a simple, yet fearless man.

Regarding the Oniroyin Support Initiative, Comrade Oladunjoye birthed the idea in his quest to give back to his primary constituency – journalism! He immersed himself entirely into the project. He generously gave the seed money to kick-start the organisation, piloted the registration and legal processes, and facilitated several donations towards actualising the mission of the organisation.

His tireless dedication to the cause and his selfless service to those in need have left an indelible path for the organisation. Painful was the death of this extra ordinary personality who has come to the end of his poetry and has applied the full stop, never to write again.

However, we take solace in the knowledge that his legacy will not only endure through the numerous lives he impacted on but also the work we shall continue to do in his honour with the continued support of the family and his friends who believe in his cause.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the immediate family, friends, and associates of Comrade Olatunde Ayinde Oladunjoye during this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing to us all, and may we continue to build upon the foundation he laid.

Adieu, respected Comrade!

E-signed
*Olufunke Fadugba*
Chairman

*Adekunle Olayeni*
Secretary

The Gym Love Triangle: Fitness, Fashion, and Flirtation in Lagos

In the age of fitness influencers, athleisure fashion, and Instagram-worthy workouts, Nigeria’s gym culture is booming. But beneath the sculpted abs and protein shakes lies a more complicated narrative: the gym as a new social playground—and sometimes, a romantic battleground.

From Ikeja to Festac and down to the bustling gyms in Ajah, what was once a space solely for sweat and stamina has evolved into something of a social experiment.

“People are using gyms to hook up,” says Folarin Adekoya, a regular gym-goer in Ikeja. “Some women come in wearing provocative outfits, and it’s not just distracting—it raises questions about their intentions.”

While the body goals are still a priority for many, others are raising eyebrows—and smartphones—as selfies, flirtation, and full-blown relationships begin to rival reps and routines.

“I Came to Lift, Not to Love”

Jason Onwuka, who trains regularly in Festac, says he’s seen it all.

“You have people who are here more for the vibe than the workouts. They spend more time talking and laughing than lifting weights,” he told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

He admits, however, that as society grows more individualistic, gyms have emerged as safe, neutral grounds for forming new connections.

“People are lonely. The gym is now a space to find friends, romance, and a sense of belonging,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s on you to stay focused.”

“Indecent Dressing Could Get Girls Banned” – Teddy A Warns

The debate recently went viral when Teddy A, a former Big Brother Naija star, posted a video lamenting what he called “indecent dressing at the gym.”

“We don’t want them to start banning girls from gyms because of indecent dressing,” he said in a video that triggered a flurry of reactions online.

While some praised his candour, others blasted his remarks as misogynistic and controlling, igniting fresh debates over dress codes, freedom of expression, and the sexual politics of the gym floor.

Fitness Centre Managers Respond

A gym manager in Ajah, who requested anonymity, told NAN that they’ve had to lay down the law to maintain order and respect.

“We’ve introduced dress guidelines and behaviour protocols. Still, people come to mingle, and as long as no one’s workout is disrupted, we don’t interfere,” he said.

He admitted that while some gym-goers blur the lines, many—especially professional women—come solely for fitness.

“They wear functional gear. Not everyone’s here for attention,” he added.

A Culture in Transition

As Nigeria’s middle class expands and wellness trends grow, gyms are no longer just places to burn calories—they’re becoming microcosms of urban life, where health, identity, and social dynamics all intersect.

But the question remains: Are gyms still sacred spaces for self-improvement—or just another scene for subtle seduction?

For now, the battle between body goals and “boo goals” continues to play out between the dumbbells and the dance bikes, one rep—and one DM—at a time.