Kano State: The "Fashola Policy" Invocation & The Underwear Controversy

By Efosa Duro

KANO, NIGERIA  — A wave of public indignation has swept through Kano State and the wider federation following the emergence of viral images showing women displaying undergarments branded with political imagery. 

The incident, linked to alleged distribution drives by political actors within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has triggered a fierce backlash from civic activists, religious leaders, and public commentators. In a scathing rebuke of the current political climate, critics have invoked what they term the "Fashola Policy" a reference to a pattern of transactional politics that many fear will lead to a "bait-and-switch" on the electorate.

Social media platforms have been flooded with photos of female underwear featuring the names and faces of prominent political figures. While ostensibly distributed as "campaign outreach," the gesture has been widely condemned as a new low in political engagement.

Investigators from The Heroes Mind have noted that across various communities, the psychological impact is undeniable: women feel vulnerable, families are alarmed, and trust in leadership is being tested.

"This is not just a lapse in judgment; it is a systematic assault on the dignity of our mothers and sisters. To reduce the needs of a woman to branded underwear is the height oqf insensitivity," one civic activist stated.

Adding fuel to the fire, renowned legal practitioner and activist Dele Farotimi has sounded a historical alarm. Farotimi drew a direct parallel between today’s events and the tenure of former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, reminding the public of a controversial precedent.

Farotimi recalled the era when Fashola distributed safety helmets to *Okada* (motorcycle) riders during an election cycle, only for the state to begin the mass confiscation and crushing of motorcycles once the votes were counted and the political goal was achieved.

"I remember that year," Farotimi remarked, questioning the long-term cost of these "gifts." He pointedly asked: "When elections are over, wetin APC go collect from the people they are gifting pants today?"

Beyond the political optics, our investigation highlights a darker psychological undertone. In a region where narratives surrounding criminal activities and ritual practices involving personal items are rife, the public distribution of intimate apparel has created a crisis of trust. 

Whether these fears are fully verified or not, the "Nothing Must Happen to Our Women" movement emphasizes that dignity and safety must remain non-negotiable.

In the wake of this development, The Heroes Mind joins civil society in calling for immediate and responsible leadership. The following demands have been issued to the Kano State authorities:

1.  Immediate Clarification: The government must provide official transparency on who authorized and funded the branded items.

2.  Strong Protective Measures: Implementation of tangible security protocols to protect women from exploitation and the fear of ritual-related targeting.

3.  Public Enlightenment: A robust campaign to counter misinformation and harmful narratives while restoring community calm.

4.  Accountable Governance: A fundamental shift away from "transactional optics" toward governance that prioritizes the actual safety and dignity of the citizenry.

The message from the streets is clear: "Nothing must happen to our women. Not now. Not ever." The invocation of the "Fashola Policy" serves as a stern warning that the electorate is now wary of political actors bearing suspicious gifts. This is not politics as usual; it is a matter of fundamental human dignity.

Advocacy investigation report sponsored by the Society for Human Advancement and Creativity Organisation (SHACO).

Keep Badagry Clean: Chairman Hunpe Leads Sanitation Drive, Warns Against Clogging Drains

By: Manoah Kikekon

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, fMHR, led a high-powered team across the municipality on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for the reintroduced Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise.

The exercise, which resumed state-wide following a directive from the Lagos State Government, saw the Chairman and his cabinet monitoring compliance between the designated hours of 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The move is part of a broader strategy to mitigate flooding and restore the aesthetic beauty of the historic coastal town.

Speaking at Agbalata Market during the monitoring, Hon. Hunpe emphasized that sanitation is a non-negotiable pillar of public health.

"Environmental cleanliness is a collective responsibility. A clean environment is essential for our health, our safety, and the sustainable development of Badagry. We cannot leave it to the government alone; every resident must take ownership of their immediate surroundings," Hunpe stated.

The Chairman reiterated his administration's commitment to the “Keep Badagry Clean” initiative, highlighting that the council would not hesitate to enforce environmental laws against those who dump refuse in gutters.

"Our duty is to sustain this initiative through continuous desilting of drainages and regular waste evacuation. We are strengthening our monitoring mechanisms to ensure full compliance. If we keep our drains clear now, we prevent the disasters of the rainy season," he added.

Hon. Hunpe was joined on the field by his wife, Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Hunpe; the Vice Chairman, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi; and the Leader of the House, Hon. Bankole Mautin Asokere. Other key officials, including the Council Manager, Mrs. Avoseh Senami, and the Secretary to the Local Government, Mr. Adagba Benjamin, were also on ground to oversee waste evacuation and drainage desilting.

The exercise witnessed a high turnout of residents, traders, and business owners who utilized the two-hour window to clear their frontages. Hon. Hunpe commended those who complied voluntarily, describing them as partners in progress.

Badagry Women Cleanse Eight Quarters in Honor of Late Akran

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a display of culture and communal devotion, the women of Badagry’s eight traditional quarters took to the streets on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for a symbolic "Traditional Sanitation" exercise. The event serves as a cornerstone of the 10-day burial rites for the late Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry, who reigned for 49 years.

The cleanup, which occurred simultaneously across the ancient kingdom's quarters, combined rigorous environmental care with the rhythmic joy of tradition. As Badagry prepares to host a global audience of dignitaries and tourists, the exercise resurrected the age-old practice of mothers sweeping their ancestral compounds (Agbo’le) to signal readiness for monumental life events.

The timing of the symbolic sweep proved particularly fortuitous. It coincided with the official reintroduction of the Monthly Environmental Sanitation by the Lagos State Government, which resumed state-wide on the same day after a long hiatus. 

While the rest of Lagos observed the mandatory cleaning window from 6:30 am to 8:30 am, the women of Badagry transformed the task into a cultural festival. Laced with songs and coordinated effort, the sanitation served as a "spiritual and physical cleansing" of the land before the final funeral rites.

"It’s in the practice of our mothers in the days of old to turn out at the Agbo’le level to sweep, preparatory to weddings, naming ceremonies, and funerals," one resident remarked. "Doing this for our late Akran is a mark of ultimate respect."

As one of the cardinal events in the burial schedule, the eight quarters—including Ahovikoh, Boekoh, Jegba, Idale, Posukoh, Awhanjigo, Asago, and Ganho—are competing to leave a memorable mark. The cleanup ensures that the "Cradle of Western Education" is pristine for the upcoming processions, which include:

The Fitila Night (Procession of lights).

The Akran Legacy Festival at the Marina.

Zangbeto and Hungan Drumming ceremonies.

The 10-day celebration, which began on April 23, is not just a period of mourning but a massive cultural showcase. Local leaders noted that the cleanliness of the streets reflects the dignity of the late monarch's reign, ensuring that his transition to the ancestors is met with a kingdom that is both beautiful and unified.

Badagry Chairman Hunpe Disburses ₦20 million to 200 Residents in 5th Phase of Cash Support

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a continued effort to mitigate economic challenges at the grassroots, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has successfully disbursed ₦100,000 each to another 200 beneficiaries. This latest payout marks the 5th phase of the Renewed Hope Asiwaju Cash Support Programme, bringing the total number of residents empowered so far to 1,000.

The event, held on Wednesday at the council secretariat, underscored the local government’s commitment to providing immediate financial cushions for vulnerable households and small-scale entrepreneurs.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Hunpe emphasized that the initiative is a direct local implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. He noted that with the increase in federal allocations to local governments, it is imperative for council leaders to ensure that the wealth reaches the people through visible and impactful relief measures.

"Responsive governance requires timely interventions to support households and boost small-scale businesses in the face of economic challenges," Hunpe stated. "This programme is designed to cushion economic hardship and strengthen grassroots economic activities."

The Chairman further explained that the programme, which debuted during his first 100 days in office, is structured as a monthly intervention. It is projected to run for 20 months, with a grand target of reaching 4,000 residents across the Badagry Local Government area.

Hon. Hunpe was quick to point out that the selection process for the ₦100,000 grant remains non-partisan and inclusive. The beneficiaries for this phase included: Widows and Widowers, Petty Traders and Artisans, The Elderly, and Vulnerable Youth Groups

To ensure the funds are utilized effectively, the council revealed that it has set up a monitoring mechanism. "The council will carry out periodic appraisals through unscheduled visits to ensure proper use of these funds and to guide our future expansion," the Chairman added.

Responding to critics of cash transfer programmes, Hon. Hunpe maintained that while infrastructure is vital, immediate human capital support cannot be ignored. He argued that cash support provides the "immediate relief" necessary for citizens to survive while the government builds long-term projects.

The Council Treasurer, Mr. Olugbenga Hunponu, praised the consistency of the initiative, noting its positive ripple effect on the local Badagry economy. He urged the 200 new beneficiaries to invest their ₦100,000 wisely to ensure business sustainability.

Caritas Nigeria Empowers 400 Farmers in Lagos and Ekiti with Multi-Million Naira Agro-Processing Equipment

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

 

In a major boost to food security and rural livelihoods, Caritas Nigeria, the development agency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, has distributed state-of-the-art agricultural processing equipment worth millions of naira to farmers in Badagry.

The empowerment program, held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Bapo in the Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), is part of a larger initiative benefiting 400 participants across Lagos and Ekiti States. Supported by the Conrad Hilton Foundation, the project marks a strategic shift from general vocational skills to specialized agricultural value-chain development.

Speaking at the distribution ceremony, Ukese Maria Udongo, the Director of Humanitarian Services for Caritas Nigeria, explained that the focus on agriculture is designed to provide sustainable pathways out of poverty for rural dwellers.

"In previous years, we gave out vocational start-up kits, but there has been a shift this year because the donor wishes that people build their capability in agriculture," Udongo said. "This will help people in the grassroots and rural communities lift themselves out of poverty."

The empowerment package was tailored to specific agricultural sectors to ensure beneficiaries have everything needed to move from farming to industrial processing:

Cassava Processing: Groups received 45 bags of cassava, grinding machines, hydraulic pressing machines, industrial frying pans, and sealing machines for garri packaging.

Fish Farming & Processing: Beneficiaries were provided with 250 fingerlings, dual tanks, pumping machines, and a full range of feed (starter to finisher). For those in processing, 50kg of fresh fish, industrial ovens, and energy-efficient briquettes were supplied.

Tomato & Pepper Preservation: Groups received equipment to produce tomato puree and dried peppers, including energy-saving stoves, grinding machines, and specialized packaging materials like zip-lock bags and glass bottles.

"Because of how expensive these equipments are, we put the beneficiaries in groups. This makes it sustainable where one person forgets what they’ve been taught, the others will remember," Udongo added.

Reverend Father Peter Audu, Executive Secretary and CEO of Caritas Nigeria, highlighted the human impact of the intervention, noting that the agency’s agriculture and livelihood team would continue to monitor the groups to ensure success.

"The measurable impacts go beyond what we can say. We have seen people are happy; it has restored their dignity and their hope," Fr. Audu remarked. "Some, as a result of our activities, have been able to send their kids to school and feed themselves."

For the residents of Bapo and surrounding communities, the arrival of the equipment was a dream realized. 

Alice Abel, a beneficiary in the tomato and pepper processing group, expressed her gratitude: "I really appreciate Caritas for bringing this program to this community. I am the happiest person here; God will bless them."

Similarly, Ebeniza Abiona, a member of the maize processing group, admitted his initial skepticism: "This program is so fantastic. When they came to Bapo, we thought they were coming to deceive us, but unfortunately for our doubts, it is a reality."

Oyo 2027: Group Advocates Clean Record for Governorship Aspirants

 By: Queen Phillips 

A civic advocacy group, Oyo Defender, has raised concerns over developments ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, calling for transparency, accountability and integrity in the emergence of candidates.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Adedosu Ifaponle, the group urged political stakeholders to prioritise credible leadership, warning against any process that could undermine public confidence in the electoral system.

The group’s reaction follows reports linking a former Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Planning during the administration of late former governor, Abiola Ajimobi, to early political positioning ahead of the polls.

Specifically, Oyo Defender referenced Bimbo Adekanmbi, noting that his name has appeared in public discourse in relation to an ongoing matter reportedly involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

While acknowledging the principle of presumption of innocence, the group stressed the need for due process and transparency in addressing issues of public concern.

“The management of state resources is a sacred responsibility. Anyone aspiring to lead the state must demonstrate integrity and earn the trust of the people,” the statement read.

Oyo Defender expressed concern about the timing of the political developments, noting that they come at a period when citizens are demanding more accountable and people-oriented governance.

According to the group, the governorship position requires not only administrative competence but also a track record that inspires public confidence.

It, therefore, called on relevant anti-corruption agencies to ensure that all matters of public interest are handled with diligence and openness, adding that voters deserve clarity from individuals seeking elective office.

The group also urged political parties, civil society organisations and the electorate to remain vigilant and uphold democratic values in the build-up to the 2027 election.

It emphasised that the forthcoming governorship contest should reflect the will of the people and serve as an opportunity to strengthen trust in governance through credible leadership.

Reaffirming its position, Oyo Defender maintained that the future of the state depends on leaders who are committed to accountability, transparency and service to the people.

2027: City Boy Movement Badagry Mobilize for Tinubu’s Re-election

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS — The political landscape in Lagos State is already heating up as the City Boy Movement (CBM), Badagry Chapter, officially kicked off its grassroots mobilization drive for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The movement gathered hundreds of enthusiastic residents and youth leaders on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Vajen Hall in Badagry. The town hall meeting focused on strategic voter sensitization, with a heavy emphasis on the importance of the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and party membership registration.

Speaking at the event, the Director General (DG) of the City Boy Movement Badagry Chapter, Comr. Makinde Nojim, clarified that the group is running an independent campaign fueled by personal conviction and private resources.

"We are doing an independent campaign for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections to ensure he emerges as President for a second term," Nojim stated. "We have let our people know that this is not about local politics, but for Bola Tinubu. We are doing this ourselves; no one sent us. We have seen the difference between this administration and previous ones, which is why we decided to stage this publicity with our own money."

Nojim highlighted the massive turnout of young people, noting that the movement is intentionally building from the grassroots to ensure a "bottom-up" victory.

The movement’s leadership outlined a roadmap of activities designed to keep the "Renewed Hope" agenda fresh in the minds of voters over the next year. 

Prince Adesegun Akran, the Coordinator of the City Boy Movement Badagry Chapter, expressed confidence in the community's collective strength.

"We have been given an agenda to mobilize for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027, and we will be rolling out various activities to make sure we achieve this," Akran remarked. "I want our Badagry people to come together to make sure we achieve even more for the Badagry Federation."

Babatunde Dada, an APC member from the Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA), noted that the goal is to surpass the voting numbers recorded in the previous election cycle.

“This is to show our President that we can do what we did in 2023 all over again in 2027," Dada said. "We are already working to ensure we give Tinubu even more votes this time. He will definitely emerge as our president again.”