The Nigerian Transparency and Accountability Watch Group, a non-partisan organization dedicated to upholding transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, has issued a fervent call for the immediate release of Amb. Dr. Otunba Adejare Adegbenro, who has been detained by the Nigeria Police under unclear circumstances.

Amb. Dr. Otunba Adegbenro, a distinguished diplomat and grandson of renowned figures in Nigeria’s history, including Pa Alfred Rewane and Alhaji Aloye Dauda Soroye Adegbenro, was taken into custody on 26th April 2024. Despite his significant contributions to social justice and security in Nigeria, the reasons behind his detention remain shrouded in mystery.

In a public statement issued today, Comrade Zakari Hashim, the National Coordinator of the Nigerian Transparency and Accountability Watch Group, condemned the arbitrary his detention as a violation of his fundamental rights.

Hashim emphasized the importance of upholding due process and ensuring fair treatment for all individuals, regardless of their status.

“As an organization dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability within Nigeria, we strongly condemn any actions that undermine the fundamental rights of individuals,” stated Hashim.

“The arbitrary detention of Amb. Dr. Otunba Adejare Adegbenro without clear justification is a blatant violation of his rights and is inconsistent with the principles of democracy and the rule of law.”

The Nigerian Transparency and Accountability Watch Group has called upon the relevant authorities, including the presidency, the Inspector General of Police, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), to intervene and secure the immediate release of Amb. Dr. Otunba Adegbenro.

Additionally, the organization has demanded a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his detention to ensure accountability for those responsible.

Comrade Hashim reiterated the group’s commitment to monitoring the situation closely and advocating for justice and accountability in Nigeria. “We remain steadfast in our pursuit of transparency and accountability,” he affirmed.

Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, the esteemed Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development in Ekiti State, spearheaded a dynamic stakeholders engagement meeting on April 4, 2024, aimed at exploring the vast potential of tourism in the region and fostering collaborative efforts for sustainable growth.

The gathering served as a platform for robust discussions centered on the multifaceted opportunities within Ekiti State’s tourism landscape. Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre emphasized the pivotal role of youth engagement in driving tourism development, recognizing the invaluable contributions that young individuals can make towards shaping the sector’s future trajectory.

A key highlight of the meeting was the exploration of potential youth exchange programs with nations renowned for their tourism prowess, including Kenya and Brazil. This forward-thinking approach underscores Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships to enhance Ekiti State’s tourism offerings and expand its global reach.

Moreover, discussions delved into the significance of geo-tourism and biodiversity in elevating Ekiti State’s tourism profile. Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre eloquently articulated the importance of preserving and showcasing the region’s natural wonders as a means of attracting visitors and fostering sustainable tourism practices.

Following the engaging dialogue, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre led attendees on a captivating tour of Ekiti State’s iconic tourism destinations, providing firsthand insight into the abundant opportunities for development and growth within the sector. From breathtaking landscapes to culturally rich heritage sites, the tour showcased the diverse tapestry of attractions that Ekiti State has to offer.

The meeting culminated in discussions surrounding potential collaborations between the office of Youth Inclusion and the Bureau of Tourism Development, signaling a promising avenue for joint initiatives aimed at empowering youth and driving tourism innovation in the state. Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre’s visionary leadership and strategic insights have set a positive tone for future partnerships and endeavors in the vibrant tourism sector of Ekiti State.

In summary, the stakeholders engagement meeting led by Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre proved to be a testament to his unwavering dedication to advancing tourism development in Ekiti State. Through fostering youth involvement, forging international partnerships, and promoting sustainable practices, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre is poised to lead Ekiti State towards a prosperous future as a premier destination on the global tourism map.

His Imperial Majesty, Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, has described Otunba Biodun Ajiboye’s commitment to re-enacting cultural values in Nigeria as one that is characterized by vision, diligence and steadfast dedication towards advancing the cultural landscape in the country.

In a letter signed by His Imperial Majesty to felicitate with Otunba Ajiboye on his well-deserved appointment as Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), the Ooni of Ife said with Ajiboye’s robust cultural background as a Yoruba High Chief who has invested immensely in the promotion of African culture and traditions, he is confident that the Institute under his watch will reach new heights of significance and impact that will enrich our collective understanding of heritage, tradition and cultural identity.

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The letter reads in part “In the realm of cultural enlightenment and spiritual stewardship, I write on behalf of the Yoruba and entire Oduduwa race globally, to felicitate with you and our race on your appointment as the Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO)”.

“Your journey to this esteemed position is marked not only by your profound dedication but also by your remarkable versatility across diverse domains.

As a distinguished fellow of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), you have consistently demonstrated your acumen in the intricacies of communication and cultural representation. Your contributions to the field of advertising have not only been noteworthy but also transformative, shaping narratives and perceptions with finesse and creativity”.

“Moreover, your affiliation with the Chartered Institute of Administration stands as a testament to your unwavering pursuit of professional mastery. Through your membership, you have not only expanded your knowledge but also exemplified the values of leadership and integrity that are integral to the Institute’s ethos”.

While expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for the honour done to the Yoruba race, the Ooni urged Otunba Ajiboye to remain committed to exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to professional excellence which will make his tenure at NICO to be marked by continued success, innovation and positive transformation.

The new NICO boss holds the traditional title of Otunba Muwagun of Oro Kingdom in Yoruba land.