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Real Reason Why Local Government Autonomy Will Remain Unattainable – Former Oyo Justice Commissioner, Oluseun Abimbola
The Former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Oyo State, Mr. Oluseun Abimbola, (SAN) was Olayinka Agboola’s guest on Splash 105.5FM’s Radio Show, Parrot Xtra/Ayekooto on Radio recently. During the interaction, he alluded to why local governments in Nigeria may never be truly independent.
Excerpts
You once served as the Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice during the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s administration, are you still into politics today?
There is no one without a political spirit in them, one thing leads to the other, both the one that occupies a position and the other that does not occupy any political position. The issue of politics in Nigeria is such that it continues to metamorphose. When I left office as the Attorney General, I returned to legal practice. Presently, I am not an active politician in the field though I have my sympathy for the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
Are you still interested in contesting for any elective post?
I can also contest to become a Governor, even though it is not everyone who aspires for political office that will eventually get it. God knows each of our aspirations.
There are controversies surrounding the emergence of the gubernatorial candidate of the APC, how will you advise the party to sort out the issue of his em, ‘legitimacy’?
I do not know what you mean by ‘legitimacy’.
Recently, your senior colleague, Chief Adeniyi Akintola went on air and attacked the leadership of the party in the state on the issue. What is your reaction to this?
Like I said earlier, there are active players on the political field and there are people who may have an understanding of what might have transpired between them.
I cannot speak to that because I do not know what transpired between them and I was not privileged to be part of their discussions. On the other hand, all political parties have their challenges. It is the same way in APC, PDP, and in other parties too.
I think the problem is that our political culture is still underdeveloped. Many times, because of our aspirations, we do not want any person to have a lead way or leverage.
I understand that if I do not become what I aspire to be today, tomorrow is always there for me but the political culture in this part of the world is that we want it now, now, without waiting for the appointed time. It is important to recognize that you are not the only one interested in it; the most important thing is building a nation.
During your tenure as the Attorney General in Oyo State, you were responsible for all legal advice to the state government and its agencies; do you remember your most challenging tasks at that time?
Yes, there were several of such because the state is made of hands and legs. When the hands and legs are working in an uncoordinated manner, doing different things without first seeking the opinion of what the law says, then, you have issues.
I was thinking you were going to talk about that time you crowned several kings in Ibadan…
That was the least of the issues because that process followed the process of law. Absolutely, the Court of Appeal validated it and that shows it followed the law. Like I said, we found a political solution to it but one more important thing is that there were many issues that we handled that did not appear on the pages of newspapers.
There was a claim against the government in terms of liability that the previous administration approved the sum of 50 million dollars. We managed to resolve it in a way that God helped us and we eventually won the case.
Furthermore, there are also many other cases, programs, projects that were computerized, one different part of it was that the law was modified particularly for the judiciary at that time.
We set up the multi door-court, the Customary Court of Appeal, Family Court, and the Grade A Customary Court, many of these institutions were built, and legitimized at that time, and they are still running.
What will you say was your major achievement during your tenure?
All those institutions came in while I was serving as the Attorney General and I had the support of Governor Abiola Ajimobi. One of them was the establishment of a judicial process to facilitate access to justice for the common person; any aggrieved person can walk into the Oyo State multi-door court and file a matter that will be resolved amicably without going through litigation. I enhanced the capacity of the center at the Ministry of Justice, even though I met it there. We amended the law to make it enforceable that if someone defaults, justice would be served.
What were the major challenges you encountered during that period?
We never had enough money to do as much as we wanted to do.
Recently in Nigeria, a family secured the validation of a 50-year-old document to recover over 200 plots of land in a well-built area in this state. The family claimed they had a superior title over the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). Is there any superior title to it?
The major problem we have is the lack of support structure to implement some of these laws. On the face of the law, the owner of the C of O is the rightful owner of the property, however in the case of litigation; the judgment of the court overrides the certificate of occupancy.
Furthermore, the court has the right to strike out a case if there is a good reason and not an arbitral reason. When someone comes with a 50-year-old judgment, there is a provision in the law that allows you to validate and enforce the judgment. The law allows for revalidation but this might come alongside certain requirements and procedures.
There is a new trend in Oyo state, in which a family might come up with a narrative claiming that their forefathers are the rightful owner of some particular piece of land. They may further attempt to take legal steps to acquire the land. Many people do this because of idleness and greed. Their ancestors have already sold most of these lands a long time ago.
What are the implications of this kind of development for state wooing potential investors?
The 2016 anti-land grabbing has done justice to that. The issue is that people are unaware of the law and besides, the Nigerian police need to be educated about implementing the law. The law travels far and wide.
This law is not just about land snatching, it further stated that if you claim to have acquired documents for your land, you must go through the legal process, and get the legal backing from the court to enforce the judgment.
However, before the court makes their judgment, they would have specified the exact location of the land (where it begins and ends). This is what we refer to as the dispute survey plan.
What is your take on the issue of local government autonomy in Nigeria?
There is an amendment process recently assented to by the National Assembly and forwarded to states’ assemblies to be rectified… only 10 states have reportedly passed the law. How do you view this?
It is desirable to have that constitutional amendment but it should be known, that it is not the only proposed amendment before the States’ Houses of Assembly- there are about 23 or more amendments that will follow the same process. If some states are having issues with few of the proposed amendments of the constitution but they have no problem with supporting local government autonomy, automatically local government autonomy law will suffer for it.
It is just that some States’ Houses of Assembly are not focusing on doing the needful, which they are aware that it is right. Some laws included in the constitutional amendment do not sit well with some states that are in support of local government autonomy and this is the reason they are against pushing the bill. This means that our local governments may not become independent soon.
Is the present constitution a major problem for the country?
Undoubtedly, the constitution is a problem but the people are the bigger problem. Even if the law is weak and faulty, what we need are elected representatives with good intentions to change such obnoxious laws; however, failure to do it will make the constitution look incapable.
If we can find lasting solutions to the present challenges facing the constitution, it will settle many issues affecting the progress of the country.
In addition, if our people do not desist from doing evil, changing the constitution will be fruitless. Many of our elected representatives need to be humane and committed to governance. Usually, the process of constitutional amendment will come with constitutional amendment acts.
That act will contain all the clauses to be amended concerning different material issues.
Furthermore, the local government amendment autonomy is one of the issues pushed forward among others while the case of the Value Added Tax (VAT) did not sail through although the Supreme Court is yet to give its judgment.
Others include the issue of redefining indigene-ship to allow residents who have lived in a place for a period to become an automatic indigene of that place. However, in the context of Nigeria’s cultural situation, it is almost impracticable because it might not be fully implemented.
There should be a reworking of the structures on ground before such a proposal is made to reduce the problem of preferential treatment some regions of the country are enjoying. Some States’ Assembly will not pass the bill of local government autonomy until many issues are addressed.
Is restructuring part of the constitutional amendment?
The proposed amendment is not part of the restructuring. These are some of the reasons why some states have developed cold feet on the issue of local government autonomy when the most pressing issues affecting the country are not addressed.
What admonition do you have for President Buhari and our politicians?
I feel the most critical thing affecting the unity of the country is that everyone is suspicious of the other. In every region, groups are suspicious of one another. The head unites the body; I feel no region should be given preferential treatment because trust is earned and not conferred.
The president needs to unite the county irrespective of the sacrifices and be ready to move away from entitlement to equity.
This same principle applies to the president and also goes to every political office holder. It is a demonstrable action and it must be seen as such. The law says justice must not only be done but must also prevail.
How did Nigerians find themselves in this mess they are today?
It was a gradual slide into decay starting from the corruption that has grown over time. People have substituted values for benefit and merit for preference. Amnesty today is also a problem since everyone claims it as a political tool, militants, Boko haram elements got amnesty and some are proposing that bandits should also get amnesty. I am a die-hard believer in Nigeria and I know those who have left Nigeria will eventually return.
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The Quest For Royalty: Apunren-Ijebu’s Journey To Crown Its Own Oba – Adenaike Oluwaseun Adebanjo
In the heart of Ijebuland in Ogun State, Nigeria, the intertwined histories of the Apunren and Isonyin communities have long been marked by shared aspirations and simmering tensions.
The Apunren, a collective of sixteen vibrant communities, perculiarly surrounded by fifteen other communities, and the Isonyin community have coexisted with a complex dynamic, one that has recently come to a head over the contentious issue of royal leadership.
As Apunren prepares to crown its own Oba, Chief Jimson Owode Oyelaja from Okelapenni Apunren, on May 22, 2025, the journey to this historic moment reveals a tale of resilience, betrayal, and unyielding determination.
A Shared Dream, A Shattered Trust
The story begins with a shared ambition: the desire for a king to unify and elevate both communities. Isonyin, leveraging its educational advantage, convinced Apunren to join forces in petitioning for an Oba. Apunren, with its larger population across sixteen communities, provided the numerical strength needed to justify the establishment of a royal stool. Together, they envisioned a leadership that would represent both communities.
However, on the day of the coronation, a bitter truth emerged. The crown was placed not on a unifying figure but on the Saderinren of Isonyin, a title exclusive to the Isonyin community. For the people of Apunren, this was a profound betrayal. The coronation, meant to symbolize unity, instead sowed division.
Disappointed and angered, many from Apunren left the ceremony feeling sidelined and excluded. The realization that the kingship was not a shared honor, but an Isonyin monopoly sparked a resolve among Apunren’s leaders and youths to chart their own path.
The Struggle For An Oba
The aftermath of the coronation saw the rise of influential figures from Apunren who refused to accept the status quo. Chief M.A. Adenaike from Eriwu Apunren, the late J.O. Olorunkoya and Ade Olorunkoya Senior from Okefudubi Apunren, and the late J.O. Oduntan from Odolewunren Apunren became the vanguard of a movement to secure an independent kingship for Apunren.
More individuals including Adeoluwa Ọpẹ. Adenaike – the Secretary-General of the Apunren Community from Eriwu Apunren, Abiodun Oyelaja from Okelapenni Apunren and Lt. Col Olufemi Oduyemi from Odole Apunren joined the elders to fight for the rights of Apunren land.
Their rallying cry was clear: Apunren as an ancient and independent community would have its own Oba, no matter the obstacles.
This resolve was tested repeatedly. Over the years, successive Saderinren of Isonyin allegedly employed various tactics to undermine Apunren’s aspirations.
From enticing Apunren baálés with promises of favor to using intimidation to maintain dominance, Isonyin’s leadership sought to preserve its exclusive claim to royalty.
The current Saderinren, in particular, Oba Cossy Salami, is said to have deployed every means at his disposal to frustrate Apunren’s efforts, viewing the establishment of an Apunren Oba as a direct challenge to his authority though Apunren-Ijebu is historically an independent Community.
Despite these challenges, Apunren’s efforts have been marked by resilience and strategic patience.
Community leaders have rallied their people, fostering unity and mobilizing resources to navigate the complex socio-political landscape.
The support of Apunren’s youths, who see the establishment of their own Oba as a matter of pride and legacy, has been instrumental in keeping the dream alive.
The Path To Resolution
The turning point in Apunren’s quest came through the intervention of the Awujale, HRH Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whose wisdom and authority have been pivotal in resolving the longstanding dispute.
Recognizing the mischief and undue interference from Isonyin, the Awujale stepped in to ensure that Apunren’s rightful aspirations were not thwarted.
He formed a factfinding committee including two prominent obas in Ijebuland – the Dagburewe of Idowa and the Orimolusi of Ijebu Igbo, to look into the Apunren and Isonyin struggle.
Following extensive investigations, meetings, and presentations, the committee established the independence of Apunren and concluded that the Apunren people’s request for an Oba is thoroughly justified.
The Awujale’ decisive action has paved the way for Apunren to finally achieve its goal.
On May 22, 2025, Apunren at a traditional coronation will crown its own Oba, Chief Jimson Owode Oyelaja from Okelapenni Apunren-Ijebu, marking a historic milestone.
This event is not merely a ceremonial occasion but a powerful statement of Apunren’s sovereignty and its refusal to be subsumed under Isonyin’s shadow.
All well-meaning sons and daughters of Apunren are invited to join in the celebration, as the community stands on the cusp of a new era.
As Apunren prepares to celebrate this landmark achievement, there is an opportunity for reflection and reconciliation.
The tensions between Apunren and Isonyin need not define their future. Both communities, bound by geography and history, can find ways to coexist as dignified equals, each with its own royal leadership.
The establishment of an Apunren Oba should be seen not as a threat but as a step toward mutual respect and cooperation.
For now, the people of Apunren look forward to May 22, 2025, with pride and anticipation.
Their journey, marked by courage and perseverance, serves as an inspiration to individuals and communities everywhere fighting for their rightful place in history.
As the drums beat and the crown is placed, Apunren will not only crown a king but also affirm its unyielding spirit. Apunren means the tenacious people.
The Apunren community extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Awujale, HRH Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, for his unwavering support and for seeing through the challenges faced by Apunren.
His intervention has been a beacon of hope and justice, ensuring that the will of the people prevails.
Dubai is renowned for its glitz and glamour, with holidaymakers flocking to enjoy its five-star hotels, swanky restaurants and infinity pools. But there’s a darker side – ultra-strict laws.
This was something that 18-year-old Londoner, Marcus Fakana, discovered when he was jailed for one year for having a consensual sexual relationship with a 17-year-old fellow tourist.
Photography
The UK Government explains on its UAE travel advice page that it’s illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations as well as to photograph people without their permission in the UAE.
Simon Hood, Executive Director at shipping company John Mason International, tells MailOnline: “Over there, snapping a quick photo of someone without their permission is a serious no-go and can land you in trouble – even if it’s just in the background. It’s not just about courtesy – it’s the law.”
Virtual private networks (VPNs)
Simon explains: “There’s a big issue with VPNs. In the UK, plenty of people use them to access restricted sites or simply for security, but in Dubai, using a VPN to bypass blocks is illegal.
‘Many travellers forget they’ve got these running on their devices and inadvertently find themselves breaking the law.”
All the strict rules tourists must follow or risk
Social media
The UK Government explains: “It is illegal to post material, including videos and photographs, online that is critical of the government, companies or individuals, or which relates to incidents in the UAE.”
Think you could get away with it? Think again. An Irish man, for example, is facing ‘several years’ in a Dubai jail for sending a ninja emoji to an acquaintance who is alleged to have stolen his belongings.
Simon added: “Sharing anything that could be seen as defamatory, offensive, or invasive – like posting photos of strangers or sharing videos of an accident – is not only frowned upon, but can also lead to hefty fines or worse.”
Poppy seeds
Poppy seeds, even in bakery products, are on the UAE’s list of ‘controlled substances’, warns the US Government. That’s because they can be contaminated with opiates.
Some medications – including codeine
“Medication can be tricky,” explains Simon, adding: “Common UK medications, like codeine, are controlled substances. If you’re carrying them without a prescription or proper documentation, you could find yourself in hot water.”
S3xual relationships
While a consensual relationship outside marriage, including extra-marital relationships, between a man and woman over the age of 18 is generally legal in Dubai, the UK Government warns that there are exceptions. In an extramarital relationship, if the other person’s spouse or parent files a complaint, both people involved in the relationship can get a prison sentence of six months or more.
If a person aged 18 has a relationship with someone 17 or under, they will be prosecuted for a sexual relationship with a minor. If both people are under 18, they will be prosecuted but punishment is unlikely to involve a prison sentence.
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE and same-sex marriages are not recognised.
Showing affection in public
Showing affection in public, such as kissing, is frowned upon. Tourists could be arrested for doing so, warns the UK Government.
Banned items
Simon explained: “Items like drones, e-cigarettes, or hoverboards often need special permits. And some things you wouldn’t think twice about at home – like books with themes of magic or witchcraft (Harry Potter comes to mind) – can attract extra scrutiny at customs.
“I remember one case where a client insisted on packing their own shipment and used UK red-top newspapers to wrap everything. Customs flagged the shipment because of the provocative images and headlines on the paper, which delayed everything by weeks and led to extra costs.”
Swearing
The UK Government explains: “It is illegal to swear and make rude gestures, including online, as they are considered obscene acts. You could be jailed or deported.”
Alcohol
It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place in the UAE, warns the UK Government.
Tourists can buy and drink alcohol at licensed hotels, restaurants and bars but a licence is required to consume alcohol in a private residence.
Illegal drugs
The UK Government warns that there is ‘zero tolerance’ for drug-related offences in the UAE.
Possession of a small amount of illegal drugs can lead to a three-month prison sentence, while a drug trafficking offence could lead to the death penalty.
Driving etiquette
“Offensive gestures and bad language directed at other drivers can lead to fines, a jail sentence and possibly deportation,” warns the UK Government.
Cross-dressing
The UK Government explains that cross-dressing is illegal in the UAE. It adds that “women should cover shoulders and knees, and underwear should not be visible” – and swimwear should only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools.
Ramadan rules
World Nomads Insurance explains: “During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is forbidden between sunrise and sunset, and non-Muslims are expected to follow this principle in public as well.”
Simon adds: “Even away from this time of year, it is illegal to eat and drink on public transport.”
Source: Daily Mail of UK
The Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is now a crucial component for individuals and businesses looking to operate seamlessly in Nigeria, JomogNews Nigeria reports.
This Nigeria news platform understands that TIN serves as a unique identifier that streamlines tax payments and ensures compliance with Nigeria’s tax regulations. It is issued by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
Whether you are a small business owner, entrepreneur, or company, securing a TIN is mandatory for tasks like opening a business bank account, applying for government loans, or obtaining an import/export license
A new bill introduced in Nigeria aims to mandate the provision of a Tax Identification Number (TIN) as a precondition for individuals and businesses to open new bank accounts or continue operating existing ones.
The proposed legislation, titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Assessment, Collection of, and Accounting for Revenue Accruing to the Federation, Federal, States, and Local Governments,” was made available by the National Assembly and highlights the role of tax authorities in tightening oversight in financial sectors.
Under the new bill, individuals engaged in banking, insurance, stockbroking, or other financial services will need to present a TIN to access these services. The goal is to ensure that all financial activities are accounted for within the tax system, helping to improve revenue collection.
Required documents for TIN application
When applying for a TIN, whether as an individual or a business, having the correct documentation is crucial. Here is a list of documents required:
For individuals: A valid ID (such as a driver’s license, national ID card, or passport), a utility bill, and a completed TIN application form.
For registered businesses: A business name registration certificate, a utility bill, and a completed TIN application form.
For incorporated companies: Memorandum & Articles of Association (MEMART), certificate of incorporation, particulars of directors, and share capital statement.
Applying for a TIN in Nigeria is a free process. No payments are required, and applicants must ensure that their contact details, including phone numbers and addresses, are accurate.
Additionally, it is important to note that while obtaining a TIN does not necessarily make individuals liable for taxes, it is essential for proper tax accounting and accessing government incentives.
TIN application for individuals
For individuals, the process of obtaining a TIN is now more streamlined than ever. Thanks to online platforms, it is easy to apply for a TIN using a Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN). Here is a breakdown of the steps involved:
Individuals can apply for a TIN online by linking their BVN or NIN. To begin, visit the Joint Tax Board (JTB) website and fill out the online form.
Ensure that all mandatory fields marked with an asterisk (*) are completed correctly.
You’ll need to upload a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, international passport, or national ID card, alongside a recent utility bill.
After completing the form and uploading the necessary documents, submit the application.
Upon successful review, you will be notified when your TIN is issued. This typically takes a few business days.
Individuals who already have a BVN or NIN can also verify if they’ve automatically been assigned a TIN by visiting the JTB verification portal.
TIN application for businesses
For companies, partnerships, and other registered non-individual entities, the TIN application process is also conducted online.
The steps are slightly different from those for individuals:
Visit the website and fill in the required fields with your company’s business information, including the company name, registration number, and address.
For businesses, the key documents needed include a business registration certificate, memorandum & articles of association, particulars of directors, and a recent utility bill.
Once the form is complete and documents are uploaded, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) will review your application.
While the process typically takes around 10 business days, it can take longer in certain circumstances, up to two months.
Verifying your TIN
Once you’ve completed the application process, to validate your TIN on the FIRS Trade Portal, enter your TIN and email address, then enter the security word and click “Validate.”
If successful, a confirmation message will appear and an email with registration instructions will be sent to your email address. After completing the registration process, a second email will confirm successful validation.
This ensures that your tax identification is properly documented and can be used for all necessary transactions.
Why obtain a TIN?
A TIN is essential for a wide range of business-related activities in Nigeria. Without one, it’s nearly impossible to conduct formal business operations in the country. Here’s why securing a TIN is so important:
A TIN is required to open a business bank account, an essential step in managing your company’s financial transactions.
You must have a TIN when applying for government loans, making it vital for businesses seeking financial support from the state.
It is essential for obtaining trade licenses, such as those for import and export operations.
Tax clearance certificates, tax waivers, and other incentives also require a valid TIN.
As Nigeria seeks to enhance tax compliance, securing a TIN ensures that businesses and individuals can take advantage of government services, incentives, and benefits.
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