Category: News

Ilorin, Kwara State — Governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Engr. Femi Sanni Araba, has commiserated with the family, associates and community of Chief Joseph Tejumola Adeyemi, who passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the age of 76.

Araba described the death of the respected legal practitioner, community leader and progressive politician as a painful loss to his family, Iludun-Oro and the wider Kwara community.

The APC governorship aspirant said Chief Adeyemi’s years of service as Executive Chairman of Irepodun Local Government Area and former State Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) reflected his commitment to public service, community development and the ideals of progressive politics.

“Chief Tejumola and I go way back to our days in the Alliance for Democracy. I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his commitment to the progressive cause and his unwavering belief in politics as an instrument for service and development.

“His contribution to the progressives’ family was invaluable. He was a man of conviction, integrity and forthrightness who remained committed to the principles he believed in. Beyond politics, he was a respected legal practitioner, community leader and elder whose counsel and presence commanded considerable respect.

“His death is therefore not only a loss to his immediate family and Iludun-Oro, but also to the progressive political family and Kwara State as a whole. We have lost a man whose life was defined by service, principle and concern for the advancement of his people.”

Araba particularly commended the late elder statesman’s contributions to human and community development, noting that his legacy of service, principled leadership and commitment to the progressive cause would continue to inspire generations.

He urged the family to take solace in the enduring impact of Chief Adeyemi’s life and the many people he influenced through his professional, political and community engagements.

Araba prayed God Almighty to grant Chief Adeyemi eternal rest and give his family, friends, associates and the people of Iludun-Oro the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

A chieftain and governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Engineer Femi Sanni (Araba), has described United States President Donald Trump’s commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts against terrorism as a strong endorsement of Nigeria’s evolving security reforms.

In a statement on Thursday, Sanni said the recognition should spur Nigeria to deepen security reforms through stronger collaboration between the Federal Government, states and international partners.

While commending President Tinubu’s leadership and expanding defence cooperation with the United States, Sanni stressed the need for constitutional reforms that would empower subnational governments, including the establishment of state police, to complement federal security efforts.

“The fight against insecurity requires stronger subnational institutions, improved intelligence gathering, community-based policing and closer collaboration among all tiers of government,” he said.

Sanni noted that his long-standing advocacy for state police and stronger subnational governance is rooted in the belief that security is most effective when it is closer to the people, adding that empowering states would enhance both internal security and socio-economic development.

He urged Nigerians to support the Tinubu administration’s security initiatives while calling for sustained reforms, stronger institutions and deeper federal-state cooperation to defeat terrorism, protect lives and promote lasting peace and national development.

Kwara State APC governorship aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni (ARABA), has paid tribute to Nigeria’s democracy heroes, including President Bola Tinubu, the late Chief MKO Abiola, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Bola Ige, Ndubuisi Kanu, Sen Shehu Sani, Air Commodore Dan Suleiman, Pa Alfred Rewane, and other pro-democracy leaders whose sacrifices contributed significantly to the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria.

In a Democracy Day message, Sanni described the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of Nigerians who resisted military rule and championed the restoration of democratic freedoms.

He acknowledged the critical contributions of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), civil society organisations, journalists, and ordinary Nigerians who stood firmly against authoritarianism, noting that their commitment and sacrifice provided the foundation for the democracy the nation enjoys today.

Sanni, who participated in the NADECO movement in Canada during the pro-democracy struggle, was recognised by key APC stakeholders during the party’s governorship primaries for his contributions to the democratic movement.

He also acknowledged the role of President Tinubu and other pro-democracy advocates, describing their efforts in the struggle against military rule as part of the collective contributions that facilitated Nigeria’s transition to the Fourth Republic.

According to him, democracy must continue to advance through stronger institutions, improved accountability, and governance systems that effectively address the aspirations and needs of citizens.

The APC aspirant commended recent developments under President Tinubu’s administration, particularly the Supreme Court judgment affirming financial autonomy for local governments, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening democratic governance at the grassroots level.

He also welcomed ongoing constitutional reforms aimed at establishing state police, following the passage of the State Police Bill by the House of Representatives, noting that decentralising policing would contribute to the development of a more effective and responsive security framework.

Sanni stated that the progress achieved so far underscores the fact that democracy remains an evolving process that requires the sustained commitment of both leaders and citizens.

He called on Nigerians to remain united and dedicated to democratic principles, emphasising that the sacrifices of democracy heroes, from MKO Abiola and other pro-democracy icons to present-day democratic stakeholders, should continue to inspire collective efforts towards building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Nigeria.

Governorship aspirant and frontline politician, Engr. Femi Sanni ARABA, has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating children across Kwara State on the occasion of this year’s Children’s Day celebration.

In a statement released to commemorate the special day, Engr. Sanni described children as the future leaders, hope, and strength of every society, stressing the need for greater investment in education, moral upbringing, healthcare, and a conducive environment that will allow them to thrive and achieve their full potential.

He noted that every child deserves access to quality education, proper guidance, security, and equal opportunities irrespective of background, religion, or social status, adding that a brighter future for Kwara and Nigeria can only be achieved through deliberate commitment to the growth and welfare of children.

Engr. Sanni also commended parents, teachers, guardians, and caregivers for their sacrifices and dedication towards nurturing responsible and productive children despite prevailing economic challenges.

According to him, leadership must prioritize policies and programs that empower young people, protect children’s rights, and create opportunities that will prepare them for future responsibilities.

“As we celebrate Children’s Day, let us all renew our commitment towards building a society where every child can dream, grow, and succeed without limitations. Our children remain the foundation of tomorrow, and we must continue to support and guide them towards greatness,” he stated.

Engr. Femi Sanni ARABA prayed for wisdom, protection, and a brighter future for all children in Kwara State and Nigeria at large, while wishing them a joyful and memorable Children’s Day celebration.

On behalf of my family, myself and the Omu Aran community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Lateef Olaniyan at this difficult time.

I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Dr. Lateef Olaniyan, an influential member of the KSANG family in Seattle, United States, and a distinguished son of Omu Aran whose life touched many across Kwara State and beyond.

Dr. Lateef Olaniyan was widely respected as a bridge builder, community mobiliser and passionate advocate for unity, peace and development. His contributions to the Kwara diaspora community, particularly among Kwarans in Seattle, as well as his unwavering commitment to the progress of Igbomina land and Kwara State, remain enduring legacies.

His demise is indeed a painful loss not only to his immediate family and associates, but also to the wider Omu Aran community, KSANG Seattle family and all who benefitted from his generosity, wisdom and support.

I pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, grants him Al-jannah Firdaus and gives strength and comfort to everyone mourning this great loss.

Engr. Femi Sanni (Araba), APC Governorship Aspirant, Kwara State.

Frontline politician and governorship aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni, has felicitated with Muslim faithful across Kwara State and beyond on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In his goodwill message, Engr. Sanni described Eid-el-Kabir as a season of sacrifice, obedience, love, and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, urging Muslims to uphold the virtues of patience, compassion, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence which the festival represents.

He called on the people of Kwara State to continue praying for the peace, unity, and sustainable development of the state, stressing that collective efforts and sincere leadership remain essential to building a more prosperous future for all citizens.

Engr. Sanni further appreciated the unwavering support, encouragement, and solidarity he has continued to receive from party faithful, supporters, youths, women, and stakeholders across the sixteen local government areas of the state, assuring them of his commitment to people oriented leadership, inclusive governance, and sustainable development.

According to him, Kwara possesses enormous potential that can be harnessed through visionary leadership, unity of purpose, and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.

“As we celebrate this sacred festival, I urge all Kwarans to continue to embrace peace, unity, and love for one another irrespective of political, ethnic, or religious differences. Together, we can build the Kwara of our dreams,” he stated.

Engr. Sanni prayed that Almighty God accepts the sacrifices and prayers of all Muslim faithful and blesses every home with happiness, divine favour, and abundant blessings.

He wished all Muslims in Kwara State a peaceful, joyful, and memorable Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

… says Baba’s life is a masterclass in principled leadership

Araba Femi Sanni has joined millions of Nigerians and admirers across the world to celebrate the centenary birthday of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the acclaimed leader of Afenifere and one of Nigeria’s last surviving founding fathers of progressive politics.

In a heartfelt message released from his media office, Araba described Baba Fasoranti as a living monument whose 100 years on earth have been dedicated to service, sacrifice, and the defence of democratic values.

Araba noted that Pa Fasoranti’s life offers a rare example of consistency in an era of shifting loyalties. From his early days as a teacher and school administrator to his tenure as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State, Baba demonstrated that public office is a trust, not a trophy. His reputation for financial prudence and incorruptible conduct remains a standard that today’s politicians, including Araba himself, aspire to emulate. Beyond the records of service, it is Baba’s character the discipline, the Spartan lifestyle, the refusal to compromise on principle that sets him apart.

The gubernatorial hopeful also reflected on Pa Fasoranti’s courageous role during the military era, when speaking truth to power came at a heavy cost.

The assassination attempt on Baba by agents of the late General Sani Abacha regime did not silence him. Instead, it steeled his resolve. Araba said that kind of bravery is what Nigeria needs to remember and celebrate, especially as the country continues to build its democracy. He added that Baba’s voice in Afenifere has been a consistent advocate for Yoruba unity, federal fairness, and national dialogue, issues that remain relevant today.

Araba further acknowledged the personal pains that Pa Fasoranti has endured, including the death of his beloved wife in 1991 and the tragic killing of his daughter, Mrs Funke Olakunrin, in 2019. Yet through every storm, Baba has soldiered on with grace and faith. That resilience, Araba said, is a lesson to all young leaders that setbacks do not define a person; rather, it is the ability to rise and continue the work.

The Kwara APC gubernatorial hopeful also recalled Baba’s prophetic role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s journey to Aso Rock. When Tinubu visited Pa Fasoranti in Akure at the start of his campaign, Baba prayed not only for victory but also declared that he would live to see his son become President. God honoured that prayer. Araba noted that such spiritual backing from a centenarian statesman carries weight beyond politics. It speaks to the alignment of destiny, faith, and purpose.

As Pa Fasoranti turns 100 on May 11, Araba Femi Sanni prays for many more years in good health, sound mind, and divine protection. He urged all Nigerians, particularly the younger generation of politicians, to study Baba’s life and draw lessons in humility, honesty, and unshakable commitment to the common good. Araba concluded by reaffirming that leaders like Pa Fasoranti are rare gifts to the nation, and their legacies must be preserved and taught in schools and public discourse.

Happy 100th birthday to Baba Reuben Fasoranti. May your days continue to be a blessing to Nigeria.