The former vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has dismissed reports suggesting that he recently declared his intention to contest the presidency.

Speaking on Channels Television on Friday, Baba-Ahmed clarified that his comments had been misinterpreted, stressing that no such declaration was made.

“I never declared to contest the presidency two days ago,” he said.

According to him, his recent public remarks were limited to reaffirming his membership of the Labour Party, amid growing political discussions about the future direction of the party and its key figures. He acknowledged that while political possibilities may exist in the future, no announcement or decision has been made at this time.

The clarification comes after widespread media and social media reports claimed that Baba-Ahmed was positioning himself for a presidential run ahead of the next general election. The reports sparked debate among supporters and political observers, many of whom viewed his comments as a signal of ambition.

Explaining further, Baba-Ahmed said, “Two days ago, what I did was simply say that I remain in the Labour Party. I never declared to contest the presidency, even though there could be a possibility of that happening. I certainly did not declare for the presidency. I reiterated my membership of the Labour Party, and that is all.”

He added that any declaration of interest would depend on the Independent National Electoral Commission timetable and the party’s internal processes.

“The submission I made was that one will have to wait for the INEC timetable and for the party to make the call for people to indicate their interest. I did not declare,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed also criticised the role of social media in amplifying misinformation, urging professional media organisations to ensure accuracy.

“It is unfortunate that social media can be so sensational, putting out wrong narratives to emotional listeners. I believe formal media like yours should serve as filters and barriers so that the general public can always consume the correct information,” he said.

The Founder and Chairman of Adron Homes and Properties Limited, Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, has reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to the preservation and respect of Nigeria’s diverse cultures and traditional institutions, describing them as vital partners in sustainable national development.

Speaking after a landmark courtesy visit to the House of Oduduwa on Tuesday, 6th January 2026, hosted by His Imperial Majesty, Kabiyesi Arole Oduduwa, Olofin Adimula, the Oonirisa of Ife, HIM Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, the Adron CEO stressed that the company’s engagement with royal institutions transcends ethnicity and regional boundaries.

According to Aare Emmanuel-King, Adron’s collaboration with traditional authorities is not limited to Yoruba land, but reflects a broader national philosophy that recognises the importance of all ethnic cultures and custodians of heritage across Nigeria in fostering unity, stability, and development.

“At Adron Homes, we believe that land is sacred and that development must be carried out with deep respect for culture, history, and traditional authority — not just in the South-West, but across every region of Nigeria,” he said.

The Adron CEO highlighted the company’s extensive footprint nationwide, noting its contributions to housing delivery, job creation, and economic empowerment across multiple states. He added that meaningful development thrives best when modern enterprise works in harmony with indigenous values and institutions.

As part of Adron’s long-term vision, Aare Emmanuel-King also announced plans for a landmark luxury estate project, ORISUN WHITE PARADISE RESORT, spanning over 200 acres in Ile-Ife, designed to blend modern luxury with cultural identity and tourism.

He expressed appreciation to Kabiyesi Oonirisa for the warm reception and royal blessings, describing the visit as a historic milestone that reinforces Adron Homes’ position as a corporate brand committed to cultural respect, inclusivity, and sustainable development across Nigeria.

The Lagos State House of Assembly has approved a total budget of ₦4,444,509,776,438 (Four Trillion, Four hundred and Forty Four Billion, Five Hundred and Nine Million, Seven Hundred and Seventy-Six Thousand, Four Hundred and Thirty Eight naira) for the 2026 fiscal year.

The approval was granted during a plenary session held on Thursday, January 8, following the presentation of a comprehensive report by the Chairman of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budget, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh.

The session, presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa saw lawmakers adopt the report through a voice vote, signaling unanimous support for the financial plan aimed at driving sustainable development across the state.

The 2026 budget prioritizes infrastructure development, education, healthcare, economic growth, and social welfare, with over 52% allocated to capital projects. This strategic allocation underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and improved quality of life for residents of Lagos State.

Following the passage, Speaker Obasa directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to transmit a clean copy of the approved bill to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for assent. The Speaker commended members of the Assembly for their diligence and collaborative efforts in ensuring the timely passage of the budget.

It will be recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu had presented a budget proposal of ₦4.23 trillion to the House on November 25, 2025, which he termed ‘Budget of Shared Prosperity.”

The governor declared then that the budget reflects Lagos State’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading economic hub in Africa through robust investments in critical sectors that foster growth, innovation, and social progress.