Former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Dr Oluyinka Ogundimu has sent a message of congratulations to the newly appointed Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr Kayode Opeifa.

Dr Opeifa, former Lagos State Commissioner for Transport was on Tuesday, 21 January, 2025, appointed the MD of NRC by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ogundimu described the appointment of Opeifa as a great honour from President Tinubu not only for Agege people but also to Lagos State in general.

“We are very grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This is a great honour for us, not only in Agege but also to the entire state.

“With his vast experience and knowledge, there is no gain saying that the appointment of Opeifa confirms the President’s commitment to always putting round pegs in round holes in his bid to move the country to greater heights,” Ogundimu said.

He also expressed confidence in the ability and capacity of Opeifa to deliver at the highest level. “He has excel in this sector before. He was Commissioner for Transport in Lagos, he didn’t disappoint and has held other high profile assignments in the transport excelling in all of them. I have implicit confidence in him that he won’t disappoint on this one also,” Ogundimu said.

In a poignant act of compassion commemorating his 60th birthday, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has extended the hand of mercy to 40 convicts, a decision that reflects a profound commitment to rehabilitation and the transformative power of second chances.

This noble initiative emerged from recommendations put forth by the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, underscoring the governor’s dedication to fostering a justice system that prioritises reform over retribution.
Among the fortunate beneficiaries, 15 convicts will experience the profound relief of outright release effective from January 12, 2025.

In a further demonstration of mercy, several death sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment, while others will see their terms of incarceration reduced, thereby nurturing renewed hope for reintegration into society.
The announcement was made by Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who also chairs the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

The signing of the release orders coincides with the governor’s 60th birthday, marking a significant occasion with an act of grace.
It is noteworthy that Governor Aiyedatiwa chose to forgo his birthday celebrations in honour of the late Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), who died last weekend.

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s actions are in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
Dr. Ajulo remarked, “The Council’s deliberations were enriched by insights from correctional authorities, legal experts, and esteemed community members, focusing on the nature of the offenses, duration of incarceration, age, health, and behaviour of the inmates.”

He further emphasized that “this compassionate gesture underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering commitment to extend Grace and Mercy undo the said convicts which represented  a vital component of his administration’s ongoing Justice Sector Reforms.

Former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole, on the passing of his beloved mother, Alhaja Atinuke Bankole.

In a statement issued by his media office, Otunba Daniel described Alhaja Atinuke Bankole as a loving and dedicated matriarch who devoted her life to the service of her family and community.

“Alhaja Atinuke Bankole was a woman of virtue, strength, and compassion who left a legacy of love, dedication, and service. Her passing is not only a great loss to the Bankole family but also to the larger Ogun State community, where her impact was deeply felt,” Otunba Daniel stated.

He further acknowledged her contributions to society as a role model and a source of inspiration to many. He urged Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole and the entire family to find solace in the wonderful memories they shared with her and the enduring values she instilled.

“On behalf of my family, I extend my deepest sympathies to Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole and the entire Bankole family. May Almighty Allah grant Alhaja Atinuke Bankole eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus and give you the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

Otunba Daniel concluded his statement by praying for peace and comfort for the family during this difficult time.