Supreme court's judgment, victory for the people of Osun - PDP Rep Candidate, L&K

A Chieftain of the People's Democratic Party in Osun state, Oluomo Lukman Kayode Mudashiru aka L&K has  described the judgement of Supreme Court affirming Senator Ademola Adeleke as the authentic candidate of the PDP in the just concluded Osun 2022 Governorship Election state as a victory for the people of Osun state.

He stated that the case was instituted with the intention to thwart the will of members of the party and by extension the people of Osun state who had initially voted Senator Ademola Adeleke at the party's primary election.

Mudashiru made this known while addressing newsmen in Osogbo, the Osun state capital, noting that the PDP remains resolute about keeping its promises to the people of Osun state.

The Iwo, Ayedire and Ola-Oluwa House of Representatives Candidate maintained  that the judgement of the court has made it obvious that the case was filed as an after thought.

He said "what happened today at the Supreme Court is not only victory to members of the PDP but victory to the people of Osun state and we are really grateful to God for the victory.

"In the first place, the judgement has revealed to us all that the case was filed as an after thought, that is why the court ruled that it was filled out of time. Did Prince Babayemi and his lawyers not know the law?

"With this judgement, we can atleast begin to trust the fact that our judicial system in Nigeria is getting revived and we can begin to trust it again".

He then advised Prince Dotun Babayemi to accept the judgement in good faith stating that the PDP is bigger than an individual and when the party had decided, no party member should go against the wish of the party.

"Its just so unfortunate that Prince Dotun Babayemi did not allow the party to resolve the issue with its internal mechanisms before pursuing the case even to the supreme court level.

"PDP is one big happy family and the party is bigger than an individual, so when the party has decided and agreed on what to do, everyone should conform to that decision either it favours them or not", Mudashiru added.

Dotun Babayemi, a governorship aspirant, had taken Adeleke before a federal high court in Osogbo, seeking to be declared as the PDP candidate for the July 16 governorship election in Osun state.

NGO Urges Young People To Set Meaningful Goals for themselves

Young individuals have been encouraged to create objectives for themselves and work hard to achieve them.

The counsel was given at a seminar hosted in Ibadan by Mrs. Funmilayo Komolafe, founder of the humanitarian group "The Virtuous Girl Child Foundation."

Approximately seven years ago, the foundation was established, according to Mrs. Komolafe, in order to inspire young people to be productive members of both their community and themselves while still remaining virgins.

Mrs Komolafe said her passion for the girl child came into being after she had a dream.

She said “in 2015 when I was serving my father land in Lokoja, my then pastor in a sermon told us to make a difference in society. There and then I started thinking of how to set goals. When I slept, I had a vision where I was talking to teenagers, and precisely on October 8, 2015, in Lokoja, I started visiting schools to talk to youths, especially the girl child.”

Similar to this, a youth instructor named Mrs. Grace Ojetunde pushed the young people attending the programme to identify their life's goals as early as possible and to never give up on them.

While adolescents still had strength, according to Mrs. Ojetunde, they should always use it for good and steer clear of social vices.

Education is necessary to stand before great individuals in life, according to one of the programme conveners, Mrs. Helen Olayiwola, who spoke on the theme "The Impact of Education on the Upcoming Generation and Achieving Academic Goals via the Help of God."

Mrs. Olayiwola advised young people to stick to the objectives they set for themselves.

Speaking on the theme of "Achieving Sexual Purity Goals via the Help of God," a youth counsellor, Mrs. Adetutu Samson, advised youths against reading or watching pornographic material.The program's chief host, Prophetess Esther Adebayo of the Christ Followers Evangelical Church, Ilugushi Estate off Kala Road, advised the young people in attendance to always seek God's guidance because only he could lead them through life.

Without objectives, according to Prophetess Adebayo, people would remain working in vain.

The awarding of supporters of the foundation, including Mrs. Dupe Tunde Abiodun, mother of the programme convener, was the event's high point.

The Deputy Directors News, FRCN, Ibadan National Station, Asiwaju S.T Abiodun, and Mr. Adewunmi Faniran w

ere in attendance.

A 5-man committee for Sustainable Health inaugurated In Oyo State

     

A five- man committee has been  inaugurated as State Advocacy Team(SAT) for the resilient system for sustainable health(RSSH).

The event took place at the end of a -three day training  for health workers and journalists held in Ibadan.

National Monitoring 

Evaluation officer Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria NEPWHAN ,Mrs Nkechi

Okoro who  inaugurated the team members , described them 

 as people who had been tested and trusted. 

She urged them to work according to mandate of the intervention and collaborate more with stakeholders both at the state and Federal levels.

Mrs Okoro also admonished  the media to perform a role in advocacy by disseminating right information .

Executive secretary,Oyo State Primary Health Care Development Agency , Dr Babatunde Olatunji said government had  procurred  more drugs and equipment  to many health facilities .

Dr Olatunji  pointed out that Oyo state government had also rehabilitated primary health care facilities in the state  for good health care delivery services.

On medications for people living with HIV/AIDS and other diseases,

Dr Olatunji affirmed that there were medical centres at local governments with mandate to give medication,counselling and testing for patients.

Oyo state programmes  officer of NEPWHAN, Mr Oluseun Adebiyi,said the initiative  focused on improving the standard of health services in rural communities amidst covid 19 pandemic .

Cov/Fasilat LAWAL.

Osun State Ministry of Education fires back at Aregbesola over comments on its educational standard

Our attention has been drawn to the comment on the state of Education in Osun State by the former governor of Osun state, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, while receiving an award in his office, in Abuja on Thursday 22nd of September, 2022. 

While we recognize the right of Mr Aregbesola to praise himself to high heavens, we will like to set the records straight without attacking anybody.

The current administration has not destroyed education as alleged by him. Rather, this administration has been working hard to improve the standard and quality of public education and take it out of the deep hole where it was when this administration came on board. We inherited an education system where principals, head teachers and teachers generally were heavily demoralized as a result of half salary payment by the then Aregbesola administration. We took over an education system where students lost interest in schooling as a result of incessant attacks and distruption of school activities by cultists, hoodlums and roughnecks posing as students undetected because of the single uniform policy of the previous administration. We were appointed to rescue a system where public schools performance in external examinations was below 20% if contributions of private schools are subtracted from the combined results released by WAEC from 2014 to 2018 after the former administration has been in charge for over 5 years and has committed over 25 billion naira.The combined matriculable percentage pass for those years are in the public space for all to see.

What then have we done since we came on board to address the rot inherited:

1) Abolition of the automatic promotion policy of government. Unlike what obtained under the last administration, we have put a stop to automatic promotion. Students who failed our unified promotion examinations are now mandated to repeat.

2) Peaceful and safe learning environment.

We have effectively eliminated indiscipline, school cultism, invasion and distruption of academic activities by roughnecks and other vices by simply reversing the single uniform policy of the last administration. Now we easily identify and punish any errant student in any of our schools. Teachers and students no longer panic when they are going to school as the learning environment is now safe and peaceful. The statistics are there for all to see. No school has been attacked or invaded by hoodlums posing as students since we ended the single uniform policy of Mr Aregbesola.

3) Improved and efficient governance structure.

We have reformed the governance structure of our schools by creatively introducing the Board of Governors (BOG) for each and every school. The BOG has as members, the principal of the school, representatives of old students, teachers, community, parents forum, clergy and former principals of the school. 

Together they all collaborate to assist the principals to manage the schools and deliver qualitative education promised by Gov Oyetola. 

Involving old students in school governance has led to a cumulative injection of over 3 billion naira by old students associations across the length and breadth of the state. 

4) Recruitment of teachers: This administration has recruited 1000 teachers and will soon conclude the recruitment of additional 1500 sound teachers majority of whom are science , English and mathematics teachers.

5) Motivation of demoralized teaching force: It was an open secret that teachers in Osun State completely lost their zeal and enthusiasm for the job as a result of irregular and half salary payment as well as non-payment of retirement benefits before this administration came on board. 

Salaries are now paid regularly and fully . Payment of Retirement benefits has improved greatly and our teachers are teaching and smiling again.

6) Construction and renovation of schools physical infrastructures: This administration has also built new blocks of classrooms in over 100 schools and renovated blocks of classrooms in several others 

7) Reintroduction of guidance and counseling into our school system: 

We recognize the influx of negative foreign cultures and the huge distractions that our students are exposed to through the internet and  global television channels, hence, we brought back counselors into our schools to assist our young minds to navigate the atrocious terrain of life during adolescence. This is already yielding tremendous results.

8) Introduction of ICT into education management: We have successfully put together an Education Management Information System (EMIS) that is ready for inauguration. Each school has a website and communication and management of each school is real time now.

9) Establishment of Osun State Examinations Board: This is to standardize our internal examinations and ensure that our students are used to standard examinations and sufficiently confident to face external examinations.

10) Introduction of Placement Examinations (Common Entrance) into JS1 and SS1: As part of our efforts to ensure that our students are not half baked and can cope easily with their current level, we introduced common entrance examinations to ensure that only teachable students are admitted into our junior and senior secondary schools respectively.

11). Reorganization and Retooling of the Ministry of Education: To ensure efficient service delivery, we have reorganized  the Ministry of Education and have bought 7 hilux vehicles for a Ministry that did not have even a bicycle when we came on board. Plans are in the pipeline to purchase vehicles for the inspectorate department for effective supervision of teachers in all schools. Already, we have uncovered and eliminated several rackets in the system. 

12) As part of our psychosocial achievements, we have eliminated controversies and discontents among stakeholders that were occasioned by the introduction of a strange 4-5-3-4 system of education by the former governor. We have since gone back to 6-3-3-4 system and aligned with the other states of the federation, thus ending the resistance/agitation of teachers and other stakeholders.

We shall continue to rebuild Osun education and ensure that we are not distracted by a self glorification that is far from the reality of what this administration inherited.

We have stabilized the system and we are confident that objective practitioners in the system appreciate our modest but sustainable contribution that has not mortgaged the future of generations yet unborn and has not put them in humongous debt.

Signed 

Hon Folorunso Oladoyin Bamisayemi 

Hon Commissioner for Education, Osun State

School reacts to student’s alleged suicide, tasks police to dig deep into the matter

Management of College of  Techhnogy, Ipetu-Ijesha, Osun State wants  Police to dig into the circumstance that led to the death of its student, Olonade  Victor Semilore whose lifeless body was found hanging on a telephone cable at a residential apartment in Isokun Area of Ilesa., Osun State

In a statement, by the head of the institution, Prince Olaniyi Adegoke, the school described the incident which occurred on the 10^th of this month as worrisome

“It is unfortunate that such a young boy full of potentials, a promising programmer could just pass away in such manner. The incident is unfortunate and the school would miss him so dearly”. It states

According to the statement , Victor, a 17 years old  part one Computer Software Engineering student of the institution did not take permission from school before embarking  on his journey to Ilesa that fateful day.

“Victor was a part one student of Computer Software Engineering, College of Technology, Ipetu-Ijesha until his death. According to the information attached to his bio-data during the admission process to the college, this young boy hailed from Ife- North Local Government but resides in Ondo town in Ondo State.” The statement emphasizes.

While commiserating with the family of the deceased, the statement points out that the school only  recognizes the Ondo based  woman  who presented herself as Victor’s  guardian and not the woman who is resident in Ilesa in whose house Victor died.

“The school has  no record of any other mother or guardian from any other place. The School authority gathered that one woman who is  said to be residing in Ilesha has been claiming to be Victor’s mother. The school would like to state that this other woman from Ilesha whose place Victor was reported to have visited on the day of his death is not known to the school at all neither is the school in the know of her connection to Late  Victor Olonade Semilore“, the statement hints

It also clarifies that Victor did not reside in the school as the school has no hostel accommodation.

“The school would want to clarify that as at this moment, there is no hostel facility, accommodation or hall of residence  belonging to the school. Once a student is admitted, the school would expect him to sort out his accommodation within the town” it adds

It will be recalled that Victor was found hung on a telephone cable in a kneeling position in a compound at Isokun area of Ilesa on the 10^th of this month and his mother Mrs Elemese said on her Facebook account three days later that his son was murdered, calling on police to fetch out his killer.

Haastrup

International Peace Day: Shina Peller tasks all on peace building

The Ayedero of Yorubaland and a member of the House of Representatives representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency, Honourable (Dr.) Shina Peller, has urged all to take up the responsibility of building and promoting peace right from their immediate community.

The Ayedero of Yorubaland made this call in his goodwill message commemorating 2022 International Peace Day themed - “End Racism. Build Peace.”

Recalled that on August 28, 2020, Honourable Peller was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ayedero of Yorubaland by the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III. The Ayedero of Yorubaland literarily means the one who brings peace and prosperity to the land. 

Therefore, in his capacity as Ayedero of Yorubaland, Honourable Peller urged all to embrace and preach peace to pave way for progress, love and unity irrespective of their ethnic, political or religious affiliation. He also prayed that peace reigns in the land.

He wrote:

“Happy International Day of Peace. 

This year's International Day of Peace themed "End Racism. Build Peace," is a wake-up call to people all over the world. I’ll like to use this medium to encourage us all to commemorate this special day by promoting peace in our communities, places of work, and wherever we find ourselves. 

“This will not only help in ending hatred, but most importantly promote Love.. It will also help to promote inclusion, individual coexistence, trust, cooperation and acceptance regardless of our ethnic, political or religion affiliation. It will help in building a culture of peace because we need peace to thrive and progress. 

“Without peace, there can never be meaningful progress neither can there be societal development. When we embrace peace, we embrace love, unity and progress which will help in making the world a better place for all. 

“The task of establishing peace belongs to all of us. We need global solidarity, commitment, sacrifices, and mutual trust now more than ever. But that peace must begin at home. 

“A peaceful world is possible, and it starts with you. This year, I join people all over the world in commemorating the International Day of Peace especially as the Ayedero of Yorubaland which means peacemaker. 

“I pray that peace reigns in Iseyin my hometown; that peace reigns in Oke Ogun my beloved region, and Oyo State; that peace reigns in Yorubaland as a whole where I reign as Ayedero; and that peace reigns in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large. Amen. 

Let there be peace in the world.”

It would be recalled that in his capacity as Ayedero of Yorubaland, Honourable Peller had also embarked on a National Peace Tour across Nigeria, meeting with traditional rulers, security agencies and relevant stakeholders in peace-building including the youth.

Kola Popoola 

Press Secretary 

Office of Honourable Shina Peller.

September 21, 2022.

Osun State Gov.-elect, Adeleke, to partner with Lead Generation Initiative

The Osun State Governor-elect, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, has expressed willingness to work with the structure of Lead Generation Initiative (LGI) in the state with a view to providing opportunities for its members and maximizing their potentials and leadership skills already acquired through the Get Involved Leadership Training (GILT) held in 2020 in the state.

Senator Adeleke made this known yesterday when a delegation of the LGI led by its founder, Honourable Shina Peller, paid him a visit in his country home, Ede in Osun State. 

Commending the founder of the NGO, Honourable Peller, for the initiative and for using his personal resources to train the youth across the country, Senator Adeleke promised to accommodate and welcome contributions from members of the LGI in the state when sworn-in as the Executive Governor.

In his remarks, Honourable Shina Peller, who presently represents Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency at the House of Representatives, congratulated the governor-elect on his election victory and handed over the structure of the LGI in the state to him.

It would be recalled that Lead Generation Initiative, a non-governmental, non-partisan and non-profit organization, has, through its Get Involved Leadership Training (GILT), successfully trained thousands of youths across the country on effective leadership, governance, strategic communication, civic responsibility and citizenship.

The first edition of GILT was held in Ibadan, Oyo State from 3rd September to 6th September, 2020 while the second took place in Osogbo, Osun State from 6th to 9th, October 2020. Thousands of youths from Bauchi, Gombe, Kwara, Niger, Adamawa, Taraba, Yobe and Borno states are also beneficiaries of GILT.

Kola Popoola

Press Secretary 

Office of Honourable Shina Peller.

September 20, 2022.

Fayose gives reasons for discontinuing the lawsuit against PDP national chairman and presidential candidate of the party

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr Isaac Fayose says he has decided to discontinue a lawsuit he instituted against the party; National chairman of the PDP, Iyorchia Ayu and the presidential candidate of the party, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Mr Fayose recently instituted a lawsuit against the defendants following the party's insistence that both the national chairman and its presidential candidate emerge from the same northern geopolitical zone.

While giving reasons for dropping the case, Isaac Fayose, a younger brother to the former governor of Ekiti state, Ayodele Fayose, said it was in the interest of peace, hearkening to the voices of reasoning  that he decided to sheath sword and for the party to move forward. 

In a statement made available to newsmen in Ibadan, Fayose said the decision to approach the court was a personal conviction contrary to belief in some quarters that he was being sponsored against the party by some forces of destabilization.

The letter reads in part " embedded in me as a person is an instinct for Justice, equity and fair play, I have remained committed to this virtue all my life with the firm belief that justice is the only requirement for peace, progress and orderliness in any society or organization "

"Perhaps, it is this conviction that led me to institute a lawsuit against the people's Democratic party , PDP, and its presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar."

"There is indisputable evidence from credible sources that major stakeholders within the party, especially Mr Iyorchia Ayu agreed among themselves to change the party leadership if Atiku emerged as the presidential flagbearer"

"Thank God, Atiku emerged to the glory of God, but it is annoying and provocating that the party top hierarchy has backed down on earlier agreement, though unwritten."

"I consider it a clear case of injustice for both the national chairman of the party and its presidential candidate to come from the same northern geopolitical zone"

"However, Moments of reactions and counter reactions have enveloped me since I instituted the court action. I have been under severe pressure from friends, well wishers and family members, especially from my brother, former governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti state and my mother"

Mr Isaac Fayose however expressed hope that the raging battle for the control of the PDP would not be allowed to put it asunder as the 2023 elections draw near.

"It was my desire as an ersthwhile party man, that with the 2023 general election few months aways, the raging battle for the control of the PDP would not be allowed to put it asunder"

"I thought that the game the PDP was going into with the incumbent APC, and the rising LP was a tough one that required unison of purpose and sense of mission."

"This hope and eager enthusiasm now belong to the past as I HAVE DECIDED TO MOVE ON to a more serious political party that is people centred."

He said the coming days, weeks and months will test the ability of PDP to either sail or sink with the raging intra-party squabbles.

It would be recalled that Mr Isaac Fayose had last week decided to drag the PDP, it's National Chairman Iyorcha Ayu and the party's Presidential flag bearer, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to court over inability to honour a gentleman agreement reached before primary election. 

The National Chairman Iyorcha Ayu had promised to step down should a northern candidate emerged at the  primary but failed to fulfil it.

Electricity Consumers Kick Against Disconnection of 3 Communities from National Grid Over Variation In Prepaid Meters By IBEDC

Residents of Ilupeju, Alatise, and Ijaregbe communities  in Obokun local government area of Osun state held a peaceful protest today at the Ayeso  A" Division police station in Ilesa over the alleged illegal disconnecting of their communities from the power grid by Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company officials (IBEDC).

The residents who stated that the settlements had been completely in the dark since last Thursday bemoaned what they called the arbitrary actions of IBEDC officials on the Ijesa land axis.

Mr. Bello Kazeem and Mr. Aderibigbe Adeyemi, two worried landlords who spoke to reporters on behalf of others from the communities,  noted that the IBEDC authorities claimed that some residents had planted wrong Prepaid metres from the Ibadan axis in their homes, which led to their actions.

However, the pair claimed that the residents did not appreciate the decision to disconnect them from the national grid and that they had accused IBEDC officials of having sponsored some members of the Nigerian Armed Forces to inflict various degrees of injuries on community representatives who had gone to peacefully communicate with them about the development 

The second-in-command  of the Ayeso Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Mr. Iyanda Segun, commended the affected  citizens for their nonviolent response to the development and for not violating the law.

Mr. Iyanda gave them the assurance that the local police authority will work with IBEDC officials and representatives of the affected communities to find a solution.

The IBEDC's Ilesa Business Hub Manager, Mr. Fola Akinrinlola, refuted the accusations when reached, while the IBEDC's Osun State Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Kikelomo Owoeye, stated the issue is with the IBEDC's headquarters and an official comment will be made shortly.

Haastrup 

Gov Oyetola lauds Uniosun for its feats in accademic excellence ....promises more conducive working environment for the institution.

 

The Governor of the State of Osun,Mr Adegboyega Oyetola has assured the Management ,Staff and Students of Osun State University,Osogbo of  his administrations commitment to continue to  create an excellent working environment which in turn  will improve academic performance of the state owned tertiary institution.

  Governor Oyetola also stressed that his administration has never interfered and will

not in any way interfer in the day to day running of the University. 

The governor made these known  at the main campus of  Osun State University Osogbo during the  Commissioning of the Mutidisciplinary Laboratory  Project executed by the institution.

    The program was  part of the series of activities lined up to mark  the 11th Convocation ceremony of the institution 

   Governor Oyetola  who was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government of Osun,Prince Oluwole Oyebamiji commended all the members of Uniosun Governing Board and the Vice-Chancellor of the institution ,Professor Clement Odunayo for the achievements  and innovative ideas ,which over the years  brought academic excellence and  growth  to Uniosun since its establishment.

  While charging the Management of Osun State University to be creative in the area of revenue generation as no government all over the world  can meet up with the challenges and wishes of any university , Oyetola  also assured the institution of the willingness of his administration to  continue to give the  needed support for its growth and development.

Earlier in his remarks,the  Vice-Chancellor,Uniosun,Professor Clement Odunayo appreciated the Governor of the State of Osun,Mr Adegboyega Oyetola for his support to the University over the years particularly for  non interference in the day to day  running of the institution.

Professor Odunayo equally assured the Governor who is the Visitor to the institution  that he  will continue to place things in proper perspective  for the effective realisation of the goals and objectives of the founding fathers of the multi campus citadel of learning .

He disclosed that Uniosun has received  commendation from the National University Commission  (NUC)for the proper running of all the Courses accredited by the Commission.

Professor Odunayo further revealed that about Eight(8) more courses have recently been accredited for Osun State University by NUC.

Highlight of the event was the commissioning of the Multidisciplinary Laboratory and inspection of its  facilities by the Governor ,Mr Adegboyega Oyetola.

Jelili Tiamiyu

SSG Office

Gov. Fayemi Hails Makinde Over Road Project

The 7.2km Idi-Ape-Bashorun-Akobo-Odogbo Barracks junction road, Ibadan has been inaugurated by the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

Dr Fayemi while inaugurating the project commended Governor Seyi Makinde for not abandoning the work, which was started by the administration of Late Abiola Ajimobi.

The road project would serve three local governments in the state connecting Ibadan North-East to Lagelu and Akinyele.

Iyabo Adebisi

GOV AKEREDOLU APPROVES PAYMENT OF OUTSTANDING GRATUITIES OF THE HOPE NEWSPAPER RETIREES

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ondo State Council, has expressed its gratitude to the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for officially approving the payment of outstanding gratuities of retired staff of the state owned Owena Press, publisher of The Hope Newspaper.

In a media release jointly signed by the Chairman of the union, Prince Leke Adegbite and the Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, the union appluaded the examplary leadership of the Governor, describing him as a man of his words, firm and reliable.

The statement describes Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu as a forthright and trustworthy leader who has a clear vision to develop the state and its people, assuring that his name would be written in the good books of the Sunshine state.

The Union notes that the action of Mr. Governor as a compassionate gesture that would go a long way in ameliorating the suffering of the The Hope newspaper retired staff.

Ondo NUJ also appreciated the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale, the state Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters & Special duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaiye and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress in the state under Comrade Sunday Adeleye, for their efforts in achieving positive result in the matter.

It would be recalled that less than three weeks ago, the leadership of NUJ, Ondo State Council paid a courtesy visit on Mr. Governor and made the payment of gratuities to retired staff of Owena Press one of it’s focal demands, and this the Governor has graciously approved.

E-signed:
Leke Adegbite
Chairman

Olaoluwa Meshack
Secretary.
14th September, 2022.

JUST IN: Ondo Governor, Akeredolu Loses Mum

PRESS STATEMENT

The mother of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu is dead.

She died peacefully in her sleep early this morning. Mama was 90 years.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other family members.

Further announcements will be made by the family in due course.

Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 15, 2022.

2023: Fayose Drags Ayu, Atiku To Court Over PDP’s Presidential Ticket

An Abuja businessman and Politician, Mr Isaac Fayose has dragged the National Chairman of the People’s Democratic party, PDP, Mr Iyorchia Ayu and the Presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to the Federal High court sitting in Abuja.

In the suit filed by his counsels, A.AKPOFURE, T.E EKEKWE, Mr Fayose is challenging the decision of the party to retain Mr Ayu as its National Chairman after the emergence of Alhaji Abubakar as the presidential flag bearer for the 2023 general elections.

According to the the suit, Mr Fayose is asking the court to determine whether the respondents were not violating the 1999 constitution as amended, as well as, the federal character, bearing in mind that Mr Ayu and Atiku Abubakar were both from the Northern region.

He also questioned the rotation system and zoning formula of the current leadership of the PDP, stressing that it did not reflect the party’s constitution.

Mr Fayose, through the suit, however requested for a court injunction to restrain Mr Ayu from being the National Chairman of the party pending the conduct of an emergency National Convention to elect a new chairman from the Southern region

Source :FRCN

ICAN in OYSCATECH for Accreditation of Accountancy Programme; Scores Institution high

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Team has visited the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 for the accreditation of Accountancy Programme of the Institution.

At the end of the accreditation exercise, the ICAN accreditation team leader, Dr. Olabamiji Ogunlade scored the institution high in terms of compliance with admission requirement for accountancy programme, vibrant students’ association and staff development.

According to him, “we are pleased with the facilities we have seen. You also have adequate number of chartered accountants who are lecturers.

“This accreditation exercise is for National Diploma programme in accountancy. Our team will submit its report to the Governing Council of ICAN for consideration and approval". 

“When approval is given, the National Diploma graduates of the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora will be exempted from ATS I & II Examination of the Institute but will automatically proceed to ATS III.” 

Dr. Ogunlade listed other benefits to include, grants for students during their week, scholarship opportunity for distinction students across all the departments.

The team charged the management to provide adequate internet facility for teaching and learning as well as current journals in the library.

 The visit provided the opportunity for ICAN accreditation Team to interact with Accountancy, Business Administration and Public Administration Students at the 800 Seater Lecture Theatre of the institution.

The Director of Educational Services for ICAN, Dr. I. B Momoh advised the students to remain focused and imbibe the culture of integrity. 

He reiterated that accountancy profession is open to anyone who is interested in becoming a chartered accountant. 

Receiving the ICAN Team, the Management of Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora under the leadership of the acting rector, Mr. Isiaka Olaniyi Adekunle appreciated the Chartered Institute of Accountants of Nigeria for the accreditation exercise.The Rector thanked the ICAN for its past donations to Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora both at the national and district level.

 Mr. Adekunle appreciated the Chartered Institute of Accountants of Nigeria for its interest in the advancement of the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora which prompted the accreditation of accountancy programme of the institution. 

The rector used the opportunity to request for the donation of building from ICAN to the institution.  Other members of the team include Dr. Tomonimowo Amos and Dr. Omoreghe Godwin.

The ICAN delegates were well received by the Management of OYSCATECH, among whom are Mr. Isiaka Adekunle, Rector, Dr. Taiwo Akinyemi, Deputy Rector, Mr. Paul Oyediran, Acting Registrar and Dr, Sarafa Agbogun, Bursar.

 Others are Director of Audit, Mr. Kolawole Atanda and Engr. Agboola Fagbemi, acting Director of Works and Services.

My sọn was murdered, he did not commit suicide – bereaved mother cries out

Mother ot the 19yr old student of Ipetu-Ijesa Polytechnic, Tomiwa who was found dead at the backyard of his mother’s rented apartment with a NITEL cable around his  neck says her son did not commit suicide, but murdered.

On her Facebook Timeline,  Elemese Olubunmi said her son’s purported suicide was stage managed, calling on security agencies to dig beyond the surface to unravel circumstance surrounding his death

“With heavy heart and extreme pains I am writing this , to set the record straight and to also cry to Nigerians to come to my aid , especially Nigerian Police. How will Tomiwa commit suicide,  I have been raising the 2 of them alone since when he was 5years old, and I decided not to get marry again, so I can take care of them properly , I am not a lazy woman, I work every day , ply ibadan to ilesa many times in a week as a trader and God has been helping me to provide for their needs “. She narrated.

According to Olubunmi, Tomiwa
was a brilliant and easy going boy, who did not love  keeping friends.
” He likes indoor browsing more than keeping friends . He was not lacking in schools. He was not hungry . 
I sent pocket money to  him a day to his death.  And he told me that he  wanted to come home and pick his   laptop computer preparatory to his exams which is scheduled to commence on 22 of September,
but I was in a 3-day  program, so  I told him to come on Saturday, so I can have time for him,we both agreed that when i gets to Ikire,  he too will leave ipetu around 2pm, so we will meet at the  same time in Ilesa,, But to my surprise , he got home before me “.

She said Tomiwa did not lack anything on campus as her elder sister with whom he often  spent his holidays always supported  him financially.
” my elder sister pays for him with ease, he spends most of his holiday with her in Ondo.  My Dad also gives him whatever he needs, so also my other siblings, why will he commit suicide?”

The bereaved mother also wrote that his murdered son neither dropped any suicide note, nor gave any warning or sent distress messages.

” He has not even entered the apartment. He had the spare key, why would  he hang outside our room and leave his bags and shoes outside ?
If he has any reasons to commit suicide,  why didn’t he do it in school?
There are lots of trees around his school and Hostel that he could have used . He was on kneeling position, begging the killer with tears rolling down his cheeks, mouth foaming,
the   throat was strangled  and was not dangling “.

” No table , No suspender.
Why would  he choose  backyard window when we have fans and table he could use inside ? How can Nitel rope kill someone ? 
The distance of the window to the floor is not enough to hang him with his height. They now tied roap on window and  around his neck as if he committed suicide”

She wants to know who  wiped  all the  call  logs, and sms messages on his phone.

“He came home by himself joyfully, greeted everyone usually like he used to do. We lives in house where more than 20 people comes daily,  it’s amazing how he was killed with no one knowledge.  Even if he commits suicide , he must have cried and screamed at the last point of his death, so painful no one came to his rescue. Could it be he was trailed from school ? If yes, how did they escaped in such environment.
He never complained about his school to me, except for the time he insisted he wanted to live alone, I rushed down to his school and spent time to get him his personal  accommodation,  and at point of making payment he told me not to worry about again as he decided to squat  with his friends”.

She called Nigerians to ensure justice for her so  who she said had no reasons whatsoever  to commit suicide. .

It will be recalled that an undergraduate of Ipetu-Ijesa Polytechnic, was found in a kneeling position with a cable round his neck in a compound at Isokun area of Ilesa, Osun State last weekend.

Meanwhile, The Police Command in Osun on Sunday said a 19-year-old student of Ipetu-Ijesa College of Technology, Olonade Tomiwa, committed suicide in Ilesa.

This is contained in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Yemisi Opalola, in Osogbo.

Opalola said the deceased was found hanging dead in the compound with a telephone cable.

She said that the case was reported at Ilesa ‘A’ Division, by one Agboola Olusola, a youth leader in the town.

The command spokesperson said no mark of violence was found on the body of the deceased when the police visited the scene of the incident.

Opalola said the police took photographs of the scene and the corpse deposited at Wesley Guild Hospital mortuary in Ilesa.

She said investigation had commenced into the matter.

Source: Facebook@Elemese Olubunmi

HEDA Challenges INEC Over the BVAS Report in Osun Poll

Concerning the Certified True Copies (CTC) reports of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) for the Osun governorship election, the Human & Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Center) has taken the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to task.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party received copies that appeared to differ from one another, prompting the organisation to express concerns (PDP).

In order to prevent influence peddling and election tampering, HEDA additionally requested that anti-corruption agencies keep an eye on electoral commission personnel.

According to a statement released by HEDA yesterday, Adegboyega Oyetola, the APC candidate and governor of Osun State, reportedly requested Certified True Copies (CTC) of the BVAS Report for the election on July 18, 2022, two days after the poll had taken place. The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), upon which the election was conducted, had received praise from all around the world.

“INEC was on record as having issued the CTC of the BVAS Report to APC and Oyetola on July 29, 2022, following the completion of the necessary payments.

“APC and Oyetola served INEC their petition contesting the results in 749 polling places because they claimed there had been overvoting in certain places.

It is claimed that INEC tampered with the contents of the original BVAS report to protect the mandate given to Ademola Adeleke and the PDP at the expense of a credible election after realising the obvious discrepancies between the numbers recorded as accredited votes on the EC8A (result sheet) and the BVAS Report. This was done by issuing a new CTC to the defendants and claiming the CTC previously given to APC and Oyetola was

How conceivable is it for INEC to have declared a winner from an out of sync BVAS, given that the Ekiti and Osun elections were held and results were announced using BVAS? Taking into account that the Osun election was almost ten days ago when the BVAS report was published.

HEDA is concerned about this development as an organisation devoted to fighting financial and electoral corruption. The Organization monitored the Osun election and participated in the vote-buying campaign in coordination with anti-corruption organisations.

“In light of this particular grave inconsistency and those related to the senatorial ticket attempts by the current Senate President in Yobe and Former Governor Godswill Akpabio in Akwa Ibom, INEC is tasked with improving and remaining consistent in order to hold a credible, free, fair, and popular election in 2023.

In order to prevent influence peddling and election tampering, the anti-corruption authorities are also mandated to closely watch Commission officials

Lagos-Shagamu Expressway Tuesday- NANS

The National Association of Nigerian Students, South-West zone, on Monday, announced the commencement of a protest on the Lagos-Shagamu Expressway.

According to the association, the protest was organised as a result of the lingering strike action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities.

The body also noted that it passed a vote of no confidence on the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, and his education counterpart, Adamu Adamu.

A statement made available to our correspondent by the Coordinator of NANS, South-West zone, Adegboye Olatunji, partly read, “For over six months, ASUU has been on strike, thereby, paralysing academic activities on campus. Unfortunately, the Federal Government has been inconsiderate to the feelings of Nigerian students which shows that the academic pursuit of students is of no relevance to this administration.

“It beats logic that government sets up new universities but downplays the welfare of the teachers resulting in the shutdown of universities stretching into over six months with no end in sight. A fortnight ago, a university lecturer committed suicide all because of the failure of government to prioritise his wellbeing leaving behind three kids. The question is, what would be the fate of the kids he left behind?

“Since the inception of this administration, we have seen how meagre sum is allocated to the educational sector. We have seen how the Minister of Labour and his education counterpart have been locking horns with members of ASUU over this prolonged strike with no meaningful end in sight. In all these, the Senate Committee on Tertiary education is lost.

“It is based on the foregoing that we declare a protest against the prolonged ASUU strike which has ultimately affected the progress of Nigerian students for the past six months. And, we also pass a vote-of-no confidence on the Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige and Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu.

“The protest shall be held simultaneously till the strike action is resolved. Convergence point: Lagos-Ibadan Expressway (Sagamu Interchange).”

CREDIT: PUNCH

OSUN APC, PDP TRADE WORDS OVER ALLEGED PLANNED ATTACK ON INEC OFFICE

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has accused the All Progressive Congress, APC, of plotting to attack Osogbo INEC office to destroy BVAS machines used during the July 16th Governorship election.

According to a statement issued in Osogbo by the State Caretaker Chairman of the party, Dr. Akindele Adekunle, the PDP said credible reports at its disposal reveal that the arson attack is to target the strong room where the machines were kept at the Osogbo office of the electoral commission.

“PDP urge the management of INEC to strengthen security protection for the state INEC office, “This threats should not be taken lightly especially after the open declaration of insurgency on the state by Mr Famodun”, the statement warned. 

The APC, Dr. Akindele posited, is desperate to get rid of any likelihood of admissibility of the BVAS Machines during ongoing hearing of the governorship petition at Osogbo, hence the alleged plot said to have reached advanced stage.

The statement further provided insight into the petition of the APC to relocate the Tribunal sitting to Abuja, noting that “the ruling party is scared of the expected ease of verification and consequent invalidation of its claim of over-voting if the Tribunal sittings continue in Osogbo.

The PDP asserts that the BVAS Machines remain the most credible tools for result verification. Due to their huge numbers and sensitivity of their content, moving them around especially to Abuja poses serious risk of compromise. Bringing them to the Tribunal at Osogbo is the best route to facilitating speedy, just and fair hearing of the petition before the Justice Kume led Tribunal. 

While reaffirming his party’s opposition to relocation of the Tribunal to Abuja, the PDP Chairman stated that the ruling party is searching for evidence to convince the Court of Appeal to approve the relocation, hence the false security reports issued from the defeated imagination of Mr. Famodun. 

REJOINDER:

In a swift response, the APC claims that the PDP’s claim that the party intends to set fire to the INEC State Headquarters with the goal of destroying the BVAS voting machines used in the state’s July 16, 2022 governorship election is untrue, laughable, gibberish, balderdash, and jabberwocky that is only befitting of a composition from an idle hand.

Kola Olabisi, the media adviser of the Osun State APC chairman, in a statement said the charge further supports the idea that not everyone who attends school is qualified to be considered educated.

“How on earth could someone who calls himself the state party caretaker chairman of a party be spreading such fallacies for reasons which could not be far from having an ulterior motive” the statement asks.

It states that contrary to the claims of the State PDP caretaker chairman INEC operates a central server in its national headquarters where the details of the governorship election are being safely kept.

‘The PDP chairman has to be further informed that no amount of crimes against any members of any state INEC office can skew the results of the governorship election”, the statement further reads

If notes Ondo State-born Osun State caretaker committee state chairman of the PDP who does not have a stake in the state should be mindful of false information coming from his cooking pot, stressing that the claim that the Osun APC is pushing for the governorship election tribunal to be moved to Abuja is merely a fabrication of the rumour monger.

The statement also clarifies that INEC, not the APC, is responsible for moving the tribunal, assuring that the party’s faith in the legal system is unwavering come rain or sun.

Press Releases

Taboo! A 19yrs old undergraduate of Ipetu-Ijesa Polytechnic Commits Suicide

It was a black weekend for the family of a 19 years old Computer Engineering student of Ipetu-Ijesa Polytechnic, Osun State, Tomiwa Olonade who hanged himself on a spreading rope in his parent’s rented apartment at Isokun, Ilesa.

Tomiwa, according to his octogenarian grandfather with tears stained cheeks, Mr Enoch, came back from school this morning to have a discussion with his mother.

” his mother just sent him 80,000 naira yesterday to pay his school fee, I always send money to him whenever Victor complained of fund paucity, I am done for, in spite of all I passed through with my daughter to give you the best parents can do for their children, you chose to part with us in this gruesome manner “, Pa Enoch lamented.

Reports reveals that the deceased, who was raised by a single mother name withheld , had earlier called her to have an important discussion with her, but the mother was said to have gone to a church.

It was gathered that the mother who rushed back home to honor her child’s request was shocked to be denied access to the compound by neighbours who had discovered the body of Tomiwa dangling on the spreading rope at the back of his mum’s apartment.

A friend to the mother of the deceased who crave anonymity said the bereaved mother called her to rush to her apartment that she received a distress call that her daughter fell seriously heal at home, noting that she was quick to tell her that the daughter in question hale a d healthy as she was with her.

She said that the call and response raised suspicions and prompted her to rush to her house only to find a mammoth crowd trying to gain access to the gory site for a glimpse of the lifeless body of the first child of her friend.

Though the cause of Tomiwa’s action is still sketchy as there was no suicide note left by the victim as at the time of filing this report, traditionalists have since been contacted to perform some rites to persuade god of thunder (Sango) to avert recurrence of the evil in the family.

Police from the Ayeso A’ Divisional Headquarters, Ilesa were also at the scene trying to gather information that could assist their investigations.

Coverage : Haastrup

Women's Participation In Politics Is Essential – Adeleke-Sanni

Women’s equal participation and leadership in political and public life are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

To this end, women should not be left out in the decision of electing political leaders at the helms of affairs of the country or the state, hence the need for women to be alive to the responsibility of ensuring a worthy and qualified leaders are elected.

The Convener, Concerned Nigerian Women for ATIKU, CONWA, Chief Mrs. Modupeola Adeleke-Sanni in a statement issued at the inauguration of the Southwest zone of the group said women must come out to work together to elect good leaders.

The statement quotes, “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” - Margaret Thatcher.

"Gone are the days when women are only heard but not seen in the decision making, this era allowed for women to be actively involved in all strata of political decision making as it affect the social and Economy development of Nigeria".

Chief Mrs. Sanni who noted that Women constitute a powerful electorate with millions of votes, said, "Nigerian women signalled their intention to make their voices heard in the last Presidential election, accounting for about 47.14 per cent (39,598,645 million) of the 84,004,084 million registered voters nationwide".

"Women’s plight are typically regarded as non-consequential to the government. Our women are at the receiving end of bad policy, representation at all levels and even in programmes of past and the present administration.

"Hence assuring them of dividends of democracy as outlined in the manifestos and agenda of His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar GCON become a message of hope to all Women in South West region of our Nation".

She commended Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for the introduction of new Electoral Act and the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, which has assured a credible voting process in Nigeria.

Chief Mrs Sanni urged all members across the zone be very active and responsive to historic struggle to deliver the zone, the Southwest region for our great party. United we stand for progress and national development of women.

In her inaugural address, the Southwest Coordinator of the CONCERNED NIGERIAN WOMEN, Hon. Hauwa Folake Ahmed said the group is a social political group for various women, political class, artisan, technocrats, youth, students and every women that have vote in the forthcoming Presidential election.

She said the aims and objectives of the socio political group is to work for the victory of our Presidential candidate, His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar GCON, and his running mate His Excellency Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

Hon. Ahmed stressed the need to sensitise women from different groups for the next General election and assure them of well representation and participation of women in the coming dispensation. 

"To achieve this, we have our grassroots mobilisation structures who are trained in canvassing voters through DOOR TO DOOR approach, market square visitation, town hall meeting, youth and student hangout etc.

"Networking through media space, our Women bloggers and social media influencers take up the media in promoting our candidates His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar," she added.

Source : Funmi Aina 

Constabularies Protest in Osogbo

Youths recruited as Constabularies into the Nigeria Police Force to complement the police in maintaining Security in Osun State today staged a protest in Osogbo, the State Capital over non payment of 18 months salary.

The special constables in their hundreds had stormed Oke-Fia from where they moved to the popular Olaiya Flyover, Osogbo in protest, alleging that the government is owing them for 18 months.

The protesters complained that they had not been paid any salary  since the completion of their training in May 2021.

Some of the protesters rode on motorcycles carrying three passengers each while others who dressed in black Police Uniform harmed themselves with placards with various inscription such as "Pay our salary now" , Okada rider are sleeping with our wives",

 "Pay us our 18months salary",  pay us "Our Stipends And Allowances",  "18 month without kobo" among others.

Speaking with newsmen one of the Constables, Mr Tijani Adewale said despite the fact that they had not been paid a kobo, they had been committed to duties saying in the course of which four Constabularies lost their lives in the on duty.

According to him, "We have gone to the local government, honourables and dignitaries  and yet nothing is done.

"We lost three Persons in ikire and one in Iree. These people died in the course of discharging their duty. We are very dutiful despite the fact that we have not been paid a dime.  Due to unpaid allowances, tricycle and Okada riders have snatched our wives because of inability to take care of them." 

Addressing the protesters, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Adewale Olokode ordered them to stop the protest with immediate effect just as he assured them that the authority in charge would see to their matter.

"You are embarrassing the force with your protest,  you should have channeled your grievances to the appropriate quarters . Is just like you are disturbing public peace with your protests.

 

"As far as you are wearing this uniform we expect you to maintain high discipline as a force men".

Adenitan Akinola

Speaker of Ogun Assembly and 2 others arraigned in court for 4.1 bn alleged fraud

Olakunle Oluomo, speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, and two other people have been charged before Justice Daniel Osiagor of a Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.

On Tuesday, they were docked by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on 11 counts of conspiracy, forgery, and theft of more than N4.1 billion.

To the accusation, they all entered not guilty pleas.

The Speaker and other defendants were driven into the courthouse by the anti-graft organisation in a hummer bus with the licence plate ABJ 445 AG, despite the fact that their arraignment was delayed by many days due to rumours.

Adeleke faults Oyetola’s mass recruitment

The Osun Governor-Elect, Senator Ademola Adeleke Transition Committee has condemned the last minute mass recruitment embarked upon by the Oyetola administration, describing it as "a deliberate ploy to expand payroll and financially cripple incoming administration. 

Reacting to plans for workers' recruitment and contract awards, the committee expressed shock and dismay at the  push of the outgoing Governor to further complicate the poor state of Osun economy due to his deep seated anger and desire to punish Osun people for voting him out of office. 

In a statement by the Chairman, Media Sub-Committee, Ademola Adeleke Transition Committee, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Committee noted that Oyetola administration had in the last two months, illegally employed thousands of personnel without consideration for the state's capacity to pay and without any workforce planning.

"As a newly elected Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has a well studied plan to fill the manpower gap within the educational sector and other areas of needs within the state without further complicating the already troubled workforce and over-bloated remuneration space.

"A tested scheme is already in place to bridge the workforce gap within the educational sector and a proper financial analysis has been concluded to address the knotty question of workers' pay and entitlements. 

"The plan to illegally recruit thousands of teachers and O-Yes personnel is therefore another evil agenda designed to disrupt the incoming Governor's agenda to normalize Osun finances and restore dignity of labour through regular payment of salaries, gratuities and pensions. This move is neither altruistic nor a patriotic rendering of service. 

"The goal is to deepen financing gridlock, plunge Osun workers into another era of pain and hardship and perpetually place the workforce in poverty and the state in under-development. As an incoming Governor with a popular mandate, Senator Ademola Adeleke will not allow the inhuman agenda of Governor Oyetola to prevail on Osun people. 

The Committee advised the people of Osun State to beware of involvement in politically motivated employment process that won't stand the test of time.

They urged job seekers and all other stakeholders to distance themselves from the desperate ploy as any illegal recruitment won't be recognised by the incoming government.

Funmi Adekoya 

Oyetola recruits 2500 teachers

Osun Recruitment

Osun State Governor,  Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has approved the recruitment of additional 1500 teachers to fill the existing gaps in the education sector of the state.

This follows the initial recruitment of 1000 teachers earlier in the year through a painstaking process involving the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board, JAMB.

This new approval will bring the total number of teachers recruited by Governor Adegboyega Oyetola’s administration to 2500.

In a statement made available to newsmen after the State’s Executive Council Meeting,in Oosgbo Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mrs Funke Egbemode, said the new approval was to further bridge the teacher/pupil ratio in Osun public schools.

Mrs Egbemode, who disclosed that priority will be given to rural areas in the distribution of manpower, stressed that a special committee had been constituted to work with the Ministry of Education in implementing the approval.

Cont/ Adeoye

Students donate building to alma mater

An administrative block valued at ten million naira has been donated by 1975/1980 year set of Oliver Baptist High School Oyo old students association to the school.

     The event also coincided with the handing over of leadership baton to o a new set of executives led by Mr Soji Emiola

Presenting the administrative block to school, president of the association, Mr LANRE Fadahunsi said the gesture followed the take over of the school by government leading to lack of some basic facilities in the school.

     Mr LANRE said the project which experienced direct contributions of professional members within the association formed part of their give back mechanism to their alma mater.

     A member of the 1975/1980 set who is also the General Manager, FRCN, Gold F.M, Ilesa, Mr ADEDAMOLA TINUBU said the association considered it worthwhile to contribute to the development of the school  as the school had provided them with sound educational footing to attain an enviable socio-economic status.

    In an interview, the new president, Mr Soji Emiola, said his administration would shift focus on wellbeing of members.

   He implored his cabinet members to be united as the association takes step to help it's members.

cov/Famakin

   

Fisherman hit by robbers bullet in Osun

Just for illustration 
A fisherman identified as Asubikwe has been killed during a robbery incident on a resident at Alatise axis of Ilesa- Ijaregbe road, Obokun local government area, in the earlier hours of yesterday.

The robbers numbering about five in an attempt to escaped from the scene of their failed operation, shot sporadically to scare away the neighbours who have been alerted by the victim. 

Asubikwe who was said to have been fishing in the Opo River for more than a decade was hit by a stray bullet in an uncompleted building where  he lived and died on arrival at Wesley Guild hospital. 

Confirming  the incident, a police source at Ibokun Divisional police headquarters said a woman, name withheld, came to report a robbery incident on her residence and that some valuables were carted away. 

According to the source attempts by the robbers to escape with the victim's Toyota Camry car falled because she was able to demobilize it using a tracking device. 

" a woman came to report an attack on her house by some people suspected to be armed robbers, saying that a man was shot when the people were trying to escape",  said the source. 

Speaking on the porosity of the corridor, the Olomu of Ijaregbe, ọba Edward Adetimo emphasized the need for the police to have a post in the area. 

He said, " there is always a palpable fear among my people and other motorists plying the quiet road, because of the recurring attacks by marauders  who constantly operate in the axis."

Report says that just last week, a woman was way laid by some robbers on her way back from the market and dispossessed her of all her money and other valuables. 

The collapsed Opo bridge claims life

Not the exact pix
The  bridge, with a deck defect,  over Òpó River ín Ijaregbe, Oriade Local Government has claimed the life of a commercial motorcyclist and injured two others

Eyewitnesses account reveals that the, the motorcyclist  whose identity is yet unknown as at the time of filing this report was at top speed when he lost control of the bike and  plunged into the river while his passengers, a woman and her child  fell by the culvert  with  the motorcycle.

” the woman told us that he warned the motorcyclist to beware of the cracks in the bridge but the warning fell on  his deaf hear until he paid for his action with his  dear life and almost ended theirs as a result of his stiff-neckedness.” the eyewitness said.

According to the report the passengers who sustained various degrees of  injuries and the motorcycle were rescued   by some passers-by, but the rider was not that lucky as effort to get him out of the river alive since Friday failed.

It was gathered that the unregistered bike was  taken to the palace of the Ajaregbe who took it to Ibokun Police Divisional Headquarters  for safety

The DPO, CSP Olusegun Atanda confirmed the incident saying the his men are on top of the situation.

It will be recalled that the residents last month attributed the bridge defect to the unwholesome mining activities in the area, urging the state government to expedite action on its repair to avert avoidable death.

Meanwhile,  the Olomu of Ijaregbe, ọba Edward Adetimo has pleaded with the state and federal governments as well as the relevant agencies to come to the rescue of his community which he said had been cut off from the mainstream.

Oba Adetimo hinted that representatives of  the National Emergency Management Agency sometimes  was at the   scene of the incident last month for  an on the spot assessment of  the degree of damage

Oba Adetimo expressed concern that many more people may fall victims of the negligence if something drastic is not done was a matter of urgency to forestall more tragedies at the spot.

  “The NEMA people have come to look at the bridge, but nothing has been done since then we have also called attention of the local government to the imminent danger and we are waiting  for a response from local authorities “, he said

The traditional ruler regretted the negative impact of of the development on the social and  economic activities of his people majority of whom are agrarians.

Oba Adetimo said social life of the people has almost been reduced to zero as the youth now link  other towns and villages in the area, residents have to pass through Ìjẹ̀bú-Jẹ̀ṣà – Ilesa road, Ìjẹ̀bú-Jẹ̀ṣà – Ere – Ibokun tó get to Osogbo ‘ he lamented

By Haastrup 

Monarch tasks youths on active participation in politics

As next year's  elections approach,Nigerian youths have been told to focus on how to be  part of a great Nigeria.

Onibuji of Ibujiland in Ifedore local government area of Ondo State,Oba Folagbade Ojo, gave the charge at Ibuji while celebrating the new yam being part of activities to round off the yearly traditional festival of the town.

Oba Ojo pointed out that youths' engagement in thuggery  or any form of violence during electoral processes, would be a bad omen and a dangerous signal to progress of Nigeria.

The monarch assured Nigerian youths of a better society stressing the need for contentment, perseverance, sacrifice and commitment of all to the project Nigeria that everyone would be proud of.

Speaking on the insecurity situation in the country,oba Ojo urged everybody to be security conscious and give maximum support to security agencies to enable them to discharge their duties  efficiently.

The yearly traditional festival which included aheregbe,oberemoye and  olokun dances, equally provided opportunity to offer prayers for  peace in Ibuji,Ondo State and the country as a whole.  Sons  and daughters of the community both home and abroad, friends,honorary and traditional chiefs of the town, graced the colourful ceremony.

The immediate past General Manager  of  Radio Nigeria Positive fm Akure  and Deputy Director news Radio Nigeria Ibadan Ibadan zonal station who is also the Asiwaju of Ibuji, Chief Tunde Abiodun was represented by head of OB and sports  unit of Positive FM Akure,Mr Olasunkanmi Taiwo.