Oriontimes

Counter-Opinion by Concerned Grassroots Stakeholders on the Politically-Colored Petition Filed by Abuja-Based Legal Practitioner In response to the recent petition filed by Mr. Pelumi—an Abuja-based legal practitioner—alleging financial misconduct during the tenure of former Osun State Governor, His Excellency Gboyega Oyetola, we, the Concerned Grassroots Stakeholders, deem it necessary to present a measured and objective counter-opinion. While we uphold the constitutional role of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a vital institution in the fight against corruption, we find Mr. Pelumi’s intervention to be marked by timing, tone, and substance that call into question its impartiality and motivation. Upon reviewing Mr. Pelumi’s article titled “Oyetola Ongoing Corruption Investigation: We Must Continue to Commend the EFCC as It Stands Tall in This Defining Moment”, one is left with the impression of a narrative crafted more for political theatre than legal scrutiny. T...

Vice President JD Vance embarked upon four-days trip to India yesterday and met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a time when the country hopes to dodge steep U.S. tariffs. Senior Indian officials and some analysts took Vance’s visit as a sign that the U.S. intended to continue working toward a trade deal. Before President Trump paused his reciprocal tariffs this month, Indian exports were facing levies of 27 percent. Beijing warned that   if countries curbed trade with China to curry favor with the U.S., they would revenge.

The cloud of blackmail in Osun PDP is not heartwarming, and the flood that could come with such a torrent must be avoided at all costs. When what used to be a peaceful home is gradually descending to a toxic abode, a mass exodus of players might be too costly to experience for a party that has a powerful opposition with federal might to contend with. But as the months roll by, whispers of discontent should be stopped from rippling through the PDP political family—the very foundation upon which Adeleke's reelection stands. He needs real friends, not those cloaked in feigned rob! Within the People's Democratic Party (PDP), a dangerous undercurrent has been brewing. Some members, supposedly bedroom allies of Governor Ademola Adeleke, began sowing seeds of falsehood and discord, questioning the loyalty and competence of key figures in Osun PDP. The recent allegation targeting Hon. Oluwole Oke, a prominent figure within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, appears ...

The Honourable representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, Wole Oke, has reacted to the growing conversations around the Osun East Senate seat—clarifying that he is not distracted by the speculation or rising interest surrounding the position. Yes, Osun East Senate is becoming an interesting space. People are talking, speculating, even projecting—but let me make one thing clear: I will not be a distraction to the current occupier. I won’t insult him. I won’t throw shades or wage any war of words. That’s not my politics. I’ve spent over two decades in public service, and in all my victories, I’ve never needed to step on anyone to rise. I believe in respect, maturity, and the dignity of leadership. Consultations are ongoing. The people are speaking. Stakeholders are watching. But above all, I remain loyal to the platform that gave me expression—my party. Whatever I do next will reflect not just personal ambition, but collective wisdom and direction. This is not about desperation. It...

  In Nigeria, religion—especially Christianity—is far more than a private matter of faith. It is a formidable cultural and political force that has shaped generations, steered social movements, and at times, dominated national discourse. From colonial rule through independence, military dictatorships, and now democratic governance, the church has remained a central institution. But amid deepening insecurity, economic hardship, and political disillusionment, a pressing question echoes among Nigeria’s youth: Has the church propelled progress—or quietly permitted decline? From Mission to Influence: A Legacy of Impact In the colonial and immediate post-independence era, the church played a pivotal role in nation-building. Missionary institutions established schools, hospitals, and leadership pipelines that produced titans like Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo. Churches in Southern Nigeria were more than places of worship. They were bastions of education, social reform, and resistance...

......articles and political content often gets buried  In today’s digital age, the line between what is popular and what is important grows ever thinner. Scroll through any social media platform and you’ll quickly notice a pattern: photos of people looking stylish, captions full of praise, and comment sections flooded with heart emojis.  Meanwhile, posts sharing crucial information—about governance, economy, or social issues—often get overlooked. Looking good has become a social currency. It draws likes, shares, and instant validation. People are more inclined to engage with visually appealing content because it's quick, easy, and entertaining.  It fits the fast-paced nature of social media, where attention spans are shrinking and appearance often outweighs substance. Serious content demands more from its audience. It requires attention, thought, and sometimes uncomfortable reflection. It doesn't offer the instant gratification many users seek online, which is why import...

......In a legal limit, it could fund 240 presidential campaigns  In recent days, the CBEX investment scheme has come under intense scrutiny following revelations that it allegedly defrauded vulnerable Nigerians of an estimated ₦1.2 trillion.  While the human cost of this scam is staggering—wiping out life savings, pensions, and livelihoods—there's another critical dimension that deserves attention: the sheer scale of this money and what it represents in Nigeria’s political economy. To put it plainly, ₦1.2 trillion could bankroll a presidential campaign in Nigeria—and then some. The Real Cost of Winning the Presidency While the Electoral Act of 2022 legally caps campaign spending for presidential candidates at ₦5 billion, the reality on ground is far more complex. In 2022, respected economist Bismarck Rewane projected that the true cost of running a successful presidential campaign in Nigeria—when factoring in campaign operations, vote-buying, party logistics, litigation, and ...

...behind the apathy lies a dangerous surrender—one with far-reaching consequences. In churches across Nigeria, a familiar refrain echoes among the youth: “Nothing concern me with politics.” It's said with ease—like a shield against the grime of a corrupt system. But beneath that apathy lies a quiet surrender. One with dangerous consequences. Many young believers view politics as dirty, worldly, or simply not their responsibility. They embrace a version of spirituality that emphasizes personal salvation while ignoring social transformation. But both scripture and history challenge that mindset. Think of Daniel, Joseph, Esther—these weren’t just visionaries or prophets. They were leaders in government, shaping the destiny of nations under God's guidance. Even Jesus engaged with political authorities, spoke truth to power, and condemned injustice. Authentic faith does not retreat from the world’s mess—it redeems and transforms it. When faith is stripped of civic responsibility, i...

In recent years, Nigeria has experienced a growing wave of youth activism and political consciousness, highlighted by increased demands for more inclusive and youth-driven leadership. This momentum is fueled by a strong belief that younger leaders bring fresh perspectives, innovative thinking, and the energy required to address the complex challenges facing the nation. The Youth Majority, the Leadership Minority Nigeria is a young nation—with over 60% of its population under the age of 35. Yet, this youthful majority is starkly underrepresented in government. The average Nigerian senator or governor is between 55 and 60 years old, creating a generational disconnect between those who govern and those being governed. This disparity has intensified frustration among young people and inspired a growing movement for change. Legislative Progress: The “Not Too Young To Run” Act A major milestone in bridging this gap came in 2018 with the signing of the Not Too Young To Run bill. This landmark...

Dozens of people have been killed after days of torrential rains flooded Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The river running through the megacity of 17 million people — one of the largest in Africa — burst its banks and submerged major roads.  Hundreds of homes have been destroyed, and thousands of people have been displaced. The death toll was likely to rise, officials said. The country was already reeling from a rebel offensive in the east. An ever-present danger: African countries frequently face deadly floods and droughts, which scientists attribute to climate change. Floods in Congo kill hundreds nearly every year.