The APC in Lagos State has expressed sadness over passing of Prince Musbau Ashafa, the Executive Chairman of Oto Awori Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ashafa passed away on Friday after a prolonged illness.
The State APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, in a statement on Saturday, described Ashafa’s death as painful.
“The news of your passing, dear Hon. Musbau Ashafa, has left me with a heavy heart.
“As a fellow party member and brother, your departure is a painful loss, not just for me, but for our entire party.
“As Chairman of Oto-Awori LCDA, you played a pivotal role in shaping grassroots politics, leaving an indelible mark on our community.
“Your dedication, passion, and leadership inspired countless individuals, and your legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” Ojelabi said.
The APC boss said he had the privilege of working alongside Ashafa since his tenure as chairman of Ojo Local Government.
He added: “Your tireless efforts, unwavering commitment, and selfless service earned you the respect and admiration of us all.
“Your ability to bring people together, foster unity, and drive development will be deeply missed.
“It’s particularly tragic that you’ve left us at a time when your expertise and guidance are needed most, with local government elections just weeks away.
“You would have completed your eight-year tenure soon, and your absence will be felt deeply.
“As State Party Chairman, I am hit hard by this sudden loss. However, we must submit to the will of God, who knows best.”
Ojelabi commiserated with late Ashafa’s family, friends, and loved ones and the APC family.
He prayed to God to grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
“May your soul rest in peace, dear Ashafa. Your contributions to our party and community will never be forgotten.
“May Almighty God comfort your family and grant them the fortitude to navigate this difficult period.
“May your legacy continue to inspire us, and may your memory remain a blessing to our party and community,” he said.
NAN reports that Ashafa, who was serving his second term as council chairman before his death, was a former APC Chairman in Otto-Awori LCDA.
The deceased served as Chairman of the old Ojo Local Government during the military regime of Gen.Sani Abacha.
Edo Govt launches street children initiative
The Edo Government has launched a broad initiative aimed at tackling the issue of street children across the state.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Olabisi Idaomi, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Benin.
Idaomi explained that the Ministry has identified two categories of street children: those living on the street and children involved in street begging.
She said the Ministry, in collaboration with NGOs, carried out sensitisation efforts in key areas like Ihama (GRA), Ring Road, Ebo Street, and Main Gate (UNIBEN).
The sensitisation aimed to identify children with traceable families and assist in their reintegration into their homes.
It also encouraged street children to make informed choices about leaving the streets for a more structured life.
“Following the campaign, the Ministry conducted rescue operations and placed children in temporary care facilities.
“Some caregivers later came forward to reclaim and take responsibility for the children,” the commissioner said.
She noted that most street children beggars are of Northern origin, seen begging around Mission Road with their families.
The Ministry worked with stakeholders, including community leaders, to devise strategies for removing these children and families from the streets.
She said the Edo government has contacted community leaders in the children’s states of origin regarding planned repatriation.
They are also running radio campaigns in local languages to inform street children beggars about the government’s intentions.
“These messages aim to inform the children about actions the state may take regarding their street presence,” Idaomi stated.
She acknowledged the rising population within Benin metropolis, which has complicated the issue.