Author: Platform Times Newspaper

In a heartwarming display of compassion and generosity, renowned Ogun philanthropist, Modupe Christiana Idowu, hosted the annual Mo Welfare Initiatives at the lepers’ colony in Abeokuta.  The event, dedicated to uplifting the less privileged, saw an enthusiastic gathering of over 200 children amidst a festive atmosphere. Idowu, the driving force behind the initiative, explained the purpose of the program as an opportunity to felicitate with those who often go unnoticed during the joyous Christmas season. Amidst the jubilation and merry celebrations prevalent in society, she recognized the overlooked plight of children facing limited opportunities. Moved by a sense of responsibility,…

 In a decisive legal victory, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld the triumph of Olakunle Oluomo, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, in the 18 March election for Ifo 1, State Constituency.  The ruling on Tuesday saw the dismissal of the petition filed by Okikiola Ogundele, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate who contested the election. The court not only affirmed Oluomo’s victory but also imposed a N500,000 fine on Ogundele, emphasizing the lack of merit in the challenger’s petition. The penalty serves as a stern reminder of the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the integrity of…

In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed a suit filed by activist and lawyer, Olukoya Ogungbeje, seeking to compel the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to investigate and prosecute Mr Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) candidate in the 2023 presidential election. The suit alleged breaches related to asset declaration and was struck out on Tuesday for lack of diligent prosecution. Ogungbeje’s claims included accusations that Peter Obi failed to declare offshore holdings and their associated assets. The lawyer also asserted that the LP Presidential candidate operated a foreign account while holding public office and continued…

Daud Olatunji  In a horrifying incident that underscores the growing security challenges in Taraba State, gunmen stormed Pupuple town in Yorro Local Government Area, abducting no fewer than 20 individuals, including a police officer, a pregnant woman, and a local Chief identified as Umaru Nyala.  The assailants, armed and dangerous, descended upon the community around 2 am on Tuesday, firing shots indiscriminately in different directions. This latest incident has left residents shaken, especially after six people were kidnapped in October, prompting concerns about the escalating wave of abductions in the region. The community’s cry for help intensified, emphasizing the need…

In a bold and determined move, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced its commitment to putting an end to the prevailing insecurity issues in the country by the year 2024. Dr Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, made this announcement during an interview with BBC Hausa, acknowledging the gravity of the security challenges faced by the nation. Matawalle expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the measures taken by the Federal Government, emphasizing that these actions would play a crucial role in addressing the recurring attacks orchestrated by gunmen.  “If God willing, from now until 2024, all other…

In a recent statement, the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has addressed a viral video depicting a confrontation between its officers and smugglers.  According to the Public Relations Officer, Hammed Oloyede, the incident occurred on Saturday, December 16, 2023, around the Lafenwa/Enu Gada axis of Abeokuta. The officers were reportedly evacuating smuggled goods from two faulty vehicles when they came under attack from hoodlums suspected to have been mobilized by the smugglers. The seriousness of the assault, which transpired at approximately 7:15 am, prompted the officers to call for reinforcement.  Despite the challenges, they successfully repelled…

Enoch Oyedibu In a resolute declaration during his speech on Tuesday, Oyo State Governor, Dr Seyi Makinde, affirmed his administration’s determination to confront anyone contesting against the installation of Oba Afolabi Olaoye Ghandi as the Soun of Ogbomoso. Governor Makinde passionately urged those entangled in legal battles to desist for the sake of Ogbomoso’s unity and the overall progress of Oyo State.  “So the people fighting, they should stop forthwith,” asserted the Governor. “But if they don’t stop or keep quiet, I, as the executive governor of Oyo State, am going to commit myself to the fight and I would…

Daud Olatunji In a recent press release, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Lagos Zone, has expressed serious reservations regarding the return of Lanre Fagbohun, the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU).  The union in a press release issued by the Zonal Coordinator of ASUU Lagos Zone, Adelaja Odukoya,on Tuesday,  questions whether Fagbohun’s return is a resumption or assumption of duty. According to ASUU Lagos Zone, Fagbohun’s return as a Professor of Law, “after accumulated leave,” has raised concerns about the adherence to established procedures for appointees on leave of absence.  The union points out…

Daud Olatunji  The 32nd anniversary celebration of Prestige Newspaper, a prominent community newspaper in Ogun state, unfolded on Sunday at the NUJ Hall, Iwe-Iroyin, Okelewo, Abeokuta. Esteemed stakeholders gathered to acknowledge the indispensable role of the media in nation-building and to recognize the publication’s commitment to balanced and unbiased reporting. Former Head Of Service, Mrs. Iyabo Odulate, praised Prestige Newspaper for its reputable standing, noting the absence of crime in its reportage. She emphasized the importance of media organizations considering the needs of the populace while also ensuring profitability. The event featured a lecture titled “The Role of Community Media…

Daud Olatunji In a bid to instill environmental awareness and responsibility in Nigeria’s youth, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has successfully concluded its annual Art and Essay Competition, a cornerstone of its Education and Awareness programme in the formal school system. Mrs. Adedamola Ogutuga, a staff  of the NCF, revealed that the competition, which began in 1988, serves as a national platform for primary and secondary school students to express their understanding of topical environmental issues. She added that the competition, spanning both the Art and Essay categories, aims to foster a positive mindset among students across the 36 states…