Personality in Focus
Adejobi Cautions Media, Security Agencies Against Fake News, Hails NAOSNP
The Nigeria Police Force PRO, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has tasked media professionals and security officers to deal decisively with the menace of false information, fake news and cyber threats as they have the capacity to destroy ‘not only our national security but also our social cohesion, political stability, and economic development’, adding that ‘Unchecked fake news and online threats can have disastrous effects on our society, eroding confidence, igniting violence, and inhibiting societal progress’.
Adejobi gave this charge in his keynote address at the National Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP Media Workshop which held last week in Lagos.
Noting that ‘the emergence of social media platforms and the ease with which information can be shared have accelerated the spread of false information. These platforms frequently place a higher value on engagement and virality than on the truthfulness of the content, providing an ideal environment for the dissemination of false information. Confirmation bias, the urge for clickbait, and sensationalism all contribute to drawing attention and raising the possibility of spreading erroneous information.’
While hailing NAOSNP for championing positive change, the Police PR expert who was represented by SP Benjamin Hundeyin, PPRO Lagos Command urged the frontline security beat association and other media professionals to engage in ‘verification and fact-checking; promoting media literacy; transparency and corrections; responsible reporting; collaboration and sharing best practices’ as urgent roles that Nigerian media must play in combating fake news in the society.
For security agencies, Adejobi noted that ‘detection and investigation; prevention and mitigation; and public awareness and education’ are vital roles that the Nigeria Police and other security agencies must play in destroying the menace of fake news, cyber threats, and security challenges before they destroy us.
In the same vein, the Founder of JournalismNG, Oba Adeoye said that there is a need for collaboration between the media and security agencies to mitigate the threats of false information, fake news, and cyber threats so as to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians. These issues are capable of inciting violence, misinformation during emergencies, public health risks, security threats, threat to social stability, preservation of democracy, and economic development.
He warned media professionals to beware of sharing fake news, sensationalizing stories, or adding personal biases to stories. ‘Fake news can have a significant impact on the credibility of the media. When false information is published or broadcast by a media organization, it can undermine the trust that the public has in that organization. This can lead to a loss of credibility, which can have long-term consequences.’
Recalling the infamous Rwandan genocide and the recent Overcomers parish in Ajah, Lagos saga, the media Consultant, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Dr. Kunle Hamilton said that ‘the primary aim of the promoters and publishers of fake news is to instigate acts of violence, chaos and disunity among peoples. Fake news often courts hate speeches.’
He identified eight features that journalists must pay attention to so as to address fake news. These are ‘satire or parody, misleading content, imposter content, manipulated content, fabricated content, rush to press, no journalism training, and photocopy publishing.’
The panel discussion at the media workshop featured CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force PRO (Keynote Speaker) as represented by SP Benjamin Hundeyin, Police PRO Lagos Command; Dr. Kunle Hamilton, Media Consultant, FrieslandCampina WAMCO; Dr. Cynthia Greg, MD, Safety Signatures; Supt. Route Commander Olabisi Sonusi, Public Education Officer, FRSC Lagos Sector Command; Mr. Damilare Adewusi from Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA); Mr. Matthew Obiazikwor, Head, Communications and Brand Management, Unity Bank Plc; and Mrs Titilayo Ogunluyi, Deputy Commander, NDLEA Lagos Command.
Mr. Matthew Obiazikwor, Head, Communications and Brand Management, Unity Bank Plc encouraged media practitioners to undergo training and retraining in order to get better on the job. ‘I want you to understand media laws. I don’t know how much conversant we are with media laws and the legal environment of our practice. That is why I suggest that we go back to take some media and mass communication courses which will make you to be able to do much more and be impactful in how you do your work.’
Urging journalists to verify news before going to press or posting online, Dr. Cynthia Greg, MD, Safety Signatures said: ‘I am bemused about the pedestrian way that media is being handled today. For people like us who studied media arts in the university about 25 years ago, we would understand the importance of investigative journalism. So when we rush to press or media, we want to shatter the table or to be seen as the first to break the news, we want to remember that there is still the role of investigative journalism in every content that you churn out in the media.’
DCN Titilayo Ogunluyi, Deputy Commander, NDLEA Lagos Command pleaded with the media sector to support the efforts of the agency to reduce the menace of narcotic use in Nigeria. ‘By creating awareness you will help us to remove barriers to seeking help in rehabilitation centres and therapies. Cure doesn’t come cheap that is why we advocate prevention.’
Speaking with journalists shortly after the media workshop, the President of NAOSNP, Oki Samson admonished practitioners to avoid rushing to the press without verifying information as he recalled a recent case of fake news which spread about AIG Hakeem Odumosu being appointed as EFCC Chairman. ‘When my colleague sent me a message about former AIG Hakeem Odumosu, the first thing I did was to send it to some platforms to authenticate it. In case you cannot reach the person directly, kindly find a way to verify information at your disposal rather than rushing to the press.’
He added that ‘this is the second workshop organized by NAOSNP. The first one was in 2022 where over 125 practitioners were in attendance.’
Personality in Focus
Eminent Gents Int’l Announces Philanthropist Abiodun Enilari Paseda As New President
By Eric Elezuo
The Eminent Gents International Club, an association of eminent gentlemen, who have proved their mettle in the society, and committed to lending a helping to the upliftment of the society, has announced Sir Abiodun Paseda as its new president.
Paseda takes over from Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni, who performed creditably well during his tenure in office.
The announcement was made following a keenly contested electoral process, where Paseda was elected unopposed. His election, according to a cross section of the club members, was made possible as a result of the confidence members reposed in him owing to his acknowledged discipline, focus and leadership abilities.
Announcing the results, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Eminent Barr. Taiwo Odumosu, commended members for the maturity, discipline, and commitment they demonstrated throughout the process, noting that despite minor challenges encountered, members conducted themselves in a manner that reflected the values and ideals upon which the Club was founded.
Immediate Past President Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni
Barr. Odumosu congratulated the newly elected officers and urged them to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership capable of strengthening the unity and growth of the Club.
Among members of the executive council, who will be working with Eminent Paseda are Eminent Barr. Oluwaseun Basorun, who was elected as the Vice President and Eminent Ariyo Abass, who won the General Secretary position.
Others are Eminent Ganiu Omotoso for the office of the Assistant General Secretary, Eminent Akinsanya Olaseni as Financial Secretary, Eminent Muyiwa Jayesimi as the Treasurer, Eminent Barrister Yomi Akodu as the Public Relations Officer and Eminent Segun Fetuga, who won the position of the Social Secetary.
Eminent Odumosu admonished the incoming administration to ensure that no member is left behind in the affairs of the Club, and to place the welfare of members at the forefront of its programmes and policies in order to continue to enhance the beautiful etiquette of the almost 20 years Club.
The Eminent Gents International Club was established in 2006 as a group saddled with the responsibility of catering for the less privileged, the needy and the have-nots of the society. The Club strongly believes in giving back to the society, with an overriding philosophy, which revolves around pooling skills, resources and experience to create a sustainable change, and improve the lives of those in need.
New Vice President Eminent Barrister Oluwaseun Bashorun
Consequently, the Club has prioritise engagements in targeted initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues affecting the needy cutting across food, heathcare, shelter, clothing and not forgetting empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Eminent Paseda pledged to live up to expectations, and ensure that the founding principles of the Club is not derailed.
He congratulated his co-executive council members, urging everyone to give their best performance to ensure the success of the administration in particular, and the Club in general.
A distinguished Nigerian based in London, England, Paseda is the Chief Executive Officer, Focus on Disabilities (FOD) Foundation, a not for profit organization that is saddled with the responsibility of seeing to the wellbeing of those living with disabilities. The organization, founded in 2010, has supervised the provision of sundry humanitarian assistance to people living with disabilities across Nigeria and the African continent with special mention to England, his place of residence.
He is a stern believer in the lifting of the downtrodden in the society, and has been awarded the Humanitarian award by Ceebee Gold Foundation.
A recipient of the BEFFTA Award, Africa achiever Award, Scotland among many others, Paseda has since 2012 been distributing movement enhancing materials to the disabled across the continent. Some of these distributions include 60 wheel chairs and disability aids in Kano and Kaduna states in 2012; distribution of clutches, wheel chairs, food items among other things in Ogun state in March and September 2013. Ever since, the selfless giver has not looked back in supporting the less privileged with his resources. He runs an all-expense paid home for people living with disabilities in Odogbolu, Ogun State
Paseda’s humanitarian outreach stretches across Africa and the UK where he is reputed to have touched a lot of lives.
A new chapter in clinical leadership has commenced at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, with the appointment of renowned Consultant Nephrologist, Dr. Olusola Adebisi, as the institution’s new Head of Clinical Services (HCS). He officially resumes duty today, Monday, June 15, 2026, following the expiration of the tenure of his predecessor, Dr. A.S. Adediran, whose stewardship contributed significantly to the advancement of clinical services within the tertiary healthcare institution.
The appointment, approved by the 7th Board of Management at its 6th Extraordinary Meeting held on June 8, 2026, is hailed as a strategic move that places one of the hospital’s most experienced clinicians and respected administrators at the helm of its clinical operations. With a distinguished career spanning renal medicine, healthcare leadership, organized medicine, and community service, Dr. Adebisi brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence to the role.
Until his appointment, Dr. Adebisi served as Head of the Nephrology Unit at FMC Abeokuta, where he earned recognition as one of the leading authorities on kidney-related illnesses within the West African sub-region. A passionate advocate for preventive nephrology, he has spearheaded numerous community sensitization initiatives, including annual World Kidney Day campaigns aimed at promoting early detection and management of kidney disease. He has also mentored and supervised generations of resident doctors, medical officers, and specialized nephrology nurses, helping to sustain a culture of clinical excellence.
His leadership credentials extend beyond clinical practice. Dr. Adebisi previously served as Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), FMC Abeokuta Chapter, where he was instrumental in fostering professional harmony and academic advancement among consultants. He currently serves as Faculty Treasurer of the West African College of Physicians (WACP), a role that underscores his financial discipline, organizational trust, and administrative competence. His earlier engagements with the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) further enriched his understanding of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Adebisi is actively involved in civic and community development. He currently serves as President of the Rotary Club in the Oke-Ona Egba District, championing humanitarian, maternal health, and community empowerment initiatives. He is also the Social Secretary of the Abeokuta Sports Club, contributing to social cohesion and cultural development within Ogun State.
A devout Christian and committed family man, Dr. Adebisi is widely respected for a leadership style rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. As Head of Clinical Services, he is expected to focus on strengthening patient-centred care, enhancing clinical research and residency training, improving interdepartmental collaboration, and promoting institutional harmony across all clinical cadres.
Speaking on his vision for the office, Dr. Adebisi emphasized the need for innovation, professionalism, and teamwork in healthcare delivery. “Our objective remains clear: to deliver compassionate, world-class, and accessible healthcare to our immediate community and beyond, fueled by clinical innovation, integrity, and absolute dedication to human life,” he said.
With his assumption of office today, stakeholders within and outside FMC Abeokuta express optimism that his blend of clinical expertise, administrative experience, and people-centred leadership will further strengthen the institution’s position as a leading centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research.
Personality in Focus
June 12: Tinubu Confers National Honours on Kolade-Otitoju, Dasuki, Okei-Odumakin, Others
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several prominent pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and retired military officers in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle and the historic June 12 movement.
The announcement was made during the President’s nationwide Democracy Day broadcast commemorating Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
According to President Tinubu, the awards are intended to immortalize the sacrifices of individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, solitary confinement, harassment, and exile during the fight against military dictatorship and the struggle to actualize the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate.
Tinubu Honours Democracy Heroes
The President emphasized that the honourees played critical roles in defending democratic values and laying the foundation for the civilian rule Nigeria enjoys today.
Among those recognized are veteran journalists, media executives, civil rights advocates, and leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), whose resistance to military rule helped shape the nation’s democratic journey.
Media and Civil Society Leaders Recognised
Notable recipients in the media and civil society category include:
* Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)
* Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Director of News at TVC News and veteran journalist
* Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, renowned human rights campaigner
* Chief Ayo Opadokun, NADECO chieftain
* Sam Omatseye
* Oladele Alake
* Olatunji Bello
* Louis Odion
* Tunde Fagbenle
* Richard Akinnola
* Debo Adeniran
The recognition highlights the pivotal role played by the media and civil society organizations in resisting authoritarian rule and advocating for democratic governance.
Retired Military Officers Honoured for Opposing Dictatorship
In what observers have described as a historic and groundbreaking move, President Tinubu also created a special category to honour military officers who worked from within the armed forces to challenge authoritarian rule and support democratic ideals.
The honoured retired officers include:
* Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd)
* Colonel Lawan Gwadabe (retd)
* Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe
* Major General Ishola Williams (retd)
* Major General M.A. Garba
* Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa
The President noted that these officers risked their careers, personal freedom, and lives in pursuit of democratic governance during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods.
Celebrating 27 Years of Democracy
The national honours ceremony forms part of activities marking Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in remembrance of the 1993 presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving democratic institutions, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring that the sacrifices of June 12 heroes remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s national memory.
The honours have been widely viewed as a significant step toward acknowledging the contributions of individuals and groups whose courage and resilience helped restore democratic rule and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
