Politics
NLC Tasks Legislators On Genuine Checks And Balances
The Ondo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has called on the newly inaugurated 9th Assembly of the state legislature to fully exercise its duties as enshrined in the 1999 constitution in order to checkmate the executive arm for the benefits of their constituents.
In a statement issued yesterday by the State Chairman of NLC, Comrade Sunday Oluwole-Adeleye who reeled out expectations of the masses stated that as direct representatives of the people, the lawmakers should work harder to give quality representation through passage of laws that would impact positively on the state.
Comrade Adeleye, who congratulated the lawmakers on their inauguration emphasised that the re-election of the Speaker, Rt Hon Bamidele Oleyelogun and his deputy, Rt Hon Iroju Ogundeji as Presiding Officers of the Assembly is a clear indication that they should lead the state parliament to bridge the gap between the government and the people.
The congress, which also advised the lawmakers to avoid losing connection with their constituents urged that regular visit and constant interaction would acquaint them to know their challenges and how government can address such.
“The state 9th Assembly should regularly interface with other critical stakeholders including the organised labour unions to give useful suggestions on how to move the state forward.
“Ondo NLC appeals to the new lawmakers to take labour friendly decisions that would motivate and enhance the productivities of the state workforce.
“The Assembly should give maximum support to Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to implement the new minimum wage of N30,000 in the State.
“The workers union reminds the new 9th Assembly on the need to have smooth working relationship with Governor Akeredolu and should not forget the principle of checks and balances in government,” the statement read.
Politics
Alleged Coup: Protests Rock N’Assembly As Detained Officers’ Children, Wives Demand Justice
Scores of children and wives of military officers detained over an alleged coup plot yesterday staged a peaceful protest at the National Assembly, demanding a speedy trial and the release of the accused officials.
The protesters who gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly complex, moved in a slow procession while clutching placards with inscriptions such as “Don’t Kill Our Daddies,” “Detention Without Trial is Injustice,” and “Six Months of Torture: Enough Is Enough.”
Amid tears and trembling voices, the children appealed for justice and access to their detained fathers, many of whom they said they had not seen for months.
The appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja attended by no fewer than 20 wives and several children of the detained officers, including a two-month-old baby.
The families were accompanied by human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju and activist Omoyele Sowore.
At the briefing, the families lamented that the officers had been held for over 160 days without trial or contact with their relatives, describing the situation as a violation of their fundamental rights.
Speaking on behalf of the families, Memuna Bashiru said the prolonged detention had thrown their households into uncertainty and emotional distress, noting that while allegations had been widely publicised, families remained in the dark about the fate of their loved ones.
The arrest of the indicted officers was first announced on October 4, 2025, by the then Director of Defense Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who disclosed that 16 officers were taken into custody for alleged breaches of military regulations and acts of indiscipline.
However, an interim investigation later suggested the existence of a clandestine network of officers, allegedly coordinated by a senior Army officer, which had begun preliminary planning for a coup.
According to the report, the alleged plot involved surveillance of key national assets, including the Presidential Villa, Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and major international airports, with October 25, 2025, cited as the planned date for the operation.
Those reportedly in custody include Brig Gen M. A. Sadiq, Col M. A. Maaji, Lt Col S. Bappah, Lt Col A. A. Hayatu, Lt Col P. Dangnap, Lt Col M. Almakura, Maj A. J. Ibrahim, Maj M. M. Jiddah, Maj M. A. Usman, Maj D. Yusuf, Capt I. Bello, Capt A. A. Yusuf, Lt S. S. Felix, Lt Cdr D. B. Abdullahi, Sqn Ldr S. B. Adamu and Maj I. Dauda.
The alleged plot, according to findings, targeted senior government officials, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a statement issued yesterday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Felix Morka, said the exercise would take place in all wards and designated centres nationwide.
He called on existing members to update their records, while encouraging new entrants to join the party through the digital platform.
“As the electronic membership registration exercise resumes in all wards and designated locations nationwide, we urge existing members to validate their membership while new members are encouraged to register and join the progressive family,” Mr Morka said.
According to him, eligibility for registration is limited to individuals aged 18 and above who possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
The party said the initiative is part of efforts to modernise its operations by transitioning to a digital database that would enhance record accuracy and accessibility.
Mr Morka noted that the e-registration would “digitise the party’s membership register, ensure the integrity of records, and enhance efficient access to membership data for planning and management decisions.”
He added that the move is also aimed at promoting internal democracy within the party and strengthening its commitment to democratic innovation.
The APC had previously introduced electronic registration as part of broader reforms to streamline its membership system and improve organisational efficiency.
