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.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general election, Engr. Rabiu Kwankwaso of orchestrating a campaign to undermine the political stature of the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje ahead of the 2027 elections.

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National Legal Adviser of the APC, Abdulkareem Kana, made the allegation during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today where he blamed the NNPP leadership in Kano State of masterminding protests targeted at removing Ganduje from his position.

Kana maintained that the NNPP’s efforts would be unsuccessful in their goal to destabilize the APC, asserting, “These actions are aimed at scratching our surface, but they lack the capability to destabilise us.”

Kana defended Ganduje’s track record, stating, “I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Ganduje, and I’ve witnessed his dedication and inclusive leadership. He’s a seasoned administrator, and his contributions to our party are invaluable.”

In response, the National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP, Ladipo Johnson, dismissed the allegations, characterizing the APC as a “confused party led by a delusional leader.”

Johnson stated that Kwankwaso has no involvement in Ganduje’s internal party issues, arguing that the APC chairman’s difficulties are of his own making and not due to any external interference.

Johnson remarked, “Ganduje’s troubles stem from his own actions, not any external interference. He’s currently embroiled in conflicts with his ward’s party executives and lacks the courage to face the charges against him in court.”

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.