Oyo invests ₦850m on sugar plant, ₦500m on Abiola Ajimobi Technical University…beefs up security with 49 additional vehicles

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27/08/2024

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed German coach Bruno Labbadia as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team. The decision was confirmed in the early hours of Tuesday.

Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the NFF General Secretary, announced that the Executive Committee of the NFF approved Labbadia’s appointment following the recommendation of the Technical and Development Sub-Committee.

Sanusi stated, “The NFF Executive Committee has endorsed the appointment of Mr. Bruno Labbadia as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. This appointment takes effect immediately.”

Labbadia, who becomes the 37th head coach of the Super Eagles, is expected to bring a wealth of experience to the role, having managed several top clubs in the Bundesliga, including Darmstadt 98, Bayer Leverkusen, VfB Stuttgart, Hamburger SV, and Hertha BSC.

The appointment of Labbadia is part of the NFF’s broader strategy to rejuvenate the Super Eagles and enhance their competitive edge on the international stage.

His arrival comes at a critical time, with the team gearing up for important fixtures in both the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Isese Day: Ogun Declares August 20th as Public Holiday

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19/08/2024

Ogun State Government has declared Tuesday, August 20th, as public holiday to celebrate this year’s Isese day, in line with Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s firm belief in religious inclusivity.

According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the work-free day will allow traditional worshippers across the State to commemorate their special day.

The statement added that Ogun State remains an exemplary federating unit with enviable level of religious cohesion and harmony, even in the face of diversity.

It, therefore, urged traditional worshippers in the state to celebrate in moderation and respect the right of others religions in the course of celebration, so as to sustain the inherent culture of religious tolerance in the State.

The statement also charged the adherents to use the special festive period to pray for peace and economic advancement in Ogun State and Nigeria at large, adding that prayers contribute immensely to the success of every nation.

Peter Obi not the politician we need – Vivour-Rhodes, Lagos LP guber candidate

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11/03/2024

The Labour Party, LP, governorship candidate in Lagos state for the 2023 general election, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has said that the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is the leader Nigeria needs.

Rhodes-Vivour, speaking on the Honest Bunch Podcast, however said Obi is not the politician “we need for us”.

“Peter Obi is the leader that we need for Nigeria, but not the politician we need for us,” he said.

Rhodes-Vivour also insisted “Peter (Obi) does not buy votes. He won Lagos without buying votes.”

Obi finished in third position during last year’s polls, behind President Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar.

On his part, Rhodes-Vivour lost the gubernatorial election to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Rhodes-Vivour challenged the election result all the way to the Supreme Court, where a five-member panel in a unanimous judgment delivered in January 2024, affirmed the declaration of Sanwo-Olu as the winner of the March 18, 2023 governorship election, after dismissing two separate appeals challenging his victory.

Be Patient With us Tinubu begs Nigerians

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12/07/2023

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Wednesday in Abuja assured Nigerians that the framework for palliatives to remedy the effects of fuel subsidy removal was being worked out, assuring that the decision was in the best interest of the country, especially in guaranteeing future prosperity.
President Tinubu, who received 18 governors who served with him, Class of 1999, at the Presidential Villa, appealed for more patience from Nigerians, while the government will increase effort, speed up the process and ensure a full-proof social security structure that will not be compromised, especially in cash-transfer.
“I understand that our people are suffering yet there can be no childbirth without pain. The joy of childbirth is the relief that comes after the pain. Nigeria is reborn already with fuel subsidy removal. It is a rebirth of the country for the largest number over a few smugglers.
“Please tell the people to be a little patient. The palliative is coming. I don’t want cash-transfer to fall into wrong hands. I know it pinches and it is difficult. In the end, we will rejoice in the prosperity of our country,’’ he told the governors, who were led by former Governor of Edo State, Lucky Igbinedion.

“We served as governors and sat in this Council Chamber. All I wanted was democracy and the salvation of the country. I never thought I was going to be here as President, but God Almighty has brought me,’’ President Tinubu stated.
The President assured the governors and Nigerians that he will work towards “unity, equity, stability, and prosperity of the country’’.
“My commitment to that democratic value is unwavering. I am overwhelmed and honored by the numbers of you here,’’ he said, “I have an open door policy. You are my advisers. We went into the pond and wrestled with a pig. We got dirty, and cleaned up. That is why I am here today.’’
President Tinubu noted that the country will not make meaningful progress without fixing electricity, assuring that his administration will harness gas resources, and explore every opportunity to ensure stable power generation and supply.
On Security, the President who had earlier met with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State to review situation in the North East, appealed to Nigerians, especially Plateau State, to sheath their swords and use dialogue in resolving conflicts, adding that issues of borders were man-made, not created by God.
“We will do everything possible to stabilize the country,’’ he added.
The former governors urged the President to pursue his vision for a greater Nigeria with vigour, steadfastness, and resilience, trusting their support for development policies, and promising to provide the necessary social structure for actualization.
“We are here with you. We are your foot soldiers, and you can tap into our experience. You are a person who believes in Nigeria. With your good leadership, Nigeria will take its place,’’ Igbinedion, Chairman, Class of 1999, said.
He affirmed that they were 19 at the meeting, including President Tinubu, who was former Governor of Lagos State and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, former Governor of Benue State, while ten of their mates had passed on.
Other governors at the meeting with President Tinubu were Niyi Adebayo, Ekiti State, Sen. Orji Uzo Kalu, Abia State, Sen. Sam Egwu, Ebonyi State, Adamu Muazu, Bauchi State, Donald Duke, Cross River State, James Ibori, Delta State, Obong Victor Attah, Akwa Ibom State, Chimaroke Nnamani, Enugu State, Saminu Turaki, Jigawa State, Sen. Aleiro Adamu, Olusegun Osoba, Ogun State, Adebisi Akande, Osun State, Sen. Joshua Dariye, Plateau State, Attahiru Bafarawa, Sokoto State, Ahmad Sani Yarima, Zamfara State and Rev. Jolly Nyame, Taraba State.

Germany’s far-right AfD has 34% support in Thuringia, poll shows

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06/07/2023

AfD parliamentary group meeting in the Bundestag — Alice Weidel (L), Alternative for Germany (AfD) parliamentary group leader and party chairman, and Tino Chrupalla, AfD federal chairman and AfD parliamentary group leader, give a press statement at the beginning of their parliamentary group meeting. Photo: Kay Nietfeld/dpa

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is backed by 34% of voters in the east German state of Thuringia, far ahead of any other single party, according to a poll released on Wednesday by public broadcaster MDR.

The survey, conducted for the broadcaster by Infratest dimap, comes amid intense political debate in Germany about the rise of the far-right.

The anti-immigration AfD won its first election for district administrator in the state in late June, when Robert Sesselmann was elected in Sonneberg in southern Thuringia.

That was followed on Sunday by a first-time victory in winning a mayor’s seat in a small town in the nearby state of Saxony-Anhalt. Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt are two of the six German states that made up the former communist state of East Germany.

The 34% figure is nine percentage points higher than last year, the broadcaster said.

The parties in Thuringia’s current state coalition – the hard-left Die Linke party, the Social Democrats (SPD) and the Greens – together have almost the same percentage as the AfD alone, the results show.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is in second place with 21%, a 1% decline from last year, while the Left Party, with 20%, is down 2% from last year’s survey.

The other parties in the state parliament are also losing ground compared to the last survey. The SPD, the ruling party in the federal coalition, currently has 10%, down one percentage point, while the Greens, who are in the federal coalition, would just manage to enter the state government with 5%, the threshold needed, down two percentage points from last year.

The Free Democratic Party (FDP) the junior federal coalition partner, received 4%, meaning it would no longer be represented in the state parliament, the survey showed.

FG to stop funding Professional Bodies/Council

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28/06/2023

The FG through MBNP has announced the discontinuation of funding for Professional Bodies/Councils in Nigeria from the 2024 budget.

Professional bodies are institutions established for regulatory purposes. They decide, maintain and regulate the ethics of practice and conduct of professionals in their profession. Almost all the professions in Nigeria have regulatory bodies and some have been running on the government’s budgetary allocation.

Below is the list of some affected bodies;

-Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
-Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAN)
-Chartered Institute of Administration (CIA
-Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN)
-Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON)
-Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN)
-Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAN)
-Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN)
-Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN)
-Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA)
-Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM)
-Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS)
-National Teachers’ Institute (NTI)
-Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)
-Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN)
-There are many more, some even with overlapping functions and duplications.

This is in line with FG’s plan to cut expenses and free up spaces in their finances for better service delivery.

The members of this body should expect a hike in their license/dues charges from 2024 to enable the bodies to carry out their operations accordingly. The bodies will now have to be more accountable than before because of how strict they will make things for their members who will in turn expect accountability and transparency.

The negative cons of this is that the bodies will now focus more on revenue generation than their statutory mandate of regulation which will affect the standards of practice for their members and result to substandard dispensation. And this may likely affect the standards of service delivery across the professions in the country due to improper appraisal and regulation of the professionals.

Another money-saving or cost-transfer (Capitalistic) policy. Such policies are good for the government and bad for the people. And their advantages and disadvantages are determined only by the beneficiaries and victims.

Germany will stick to ‘orderly withdrawal’ from Mali, military says

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18/06/2023

Germany will stick to 'orderly withdrawal' from Mali — FILED - 13 April 2023, Mali, Gao: The shoulder patch of the MINUSMA Mission of the United Nations UN on a Bundeswehr soldier in the Bundeswehr field camp Camp Castor. The German government said on Saturday it will wind down the deployment of the Bundeswehr peacekeeping troops in Mali in an orderly manner, despite the West African country's military rulers demanding the forces be withdrawn immediately. Photo: Michael Kappeler/dpa

The German government said on Saturday it will wind down the deployment of the Bundeswehr peacekeeping troops in Mali in an orderly manner, despite the West African country’s military rulers demanding the forces be withdrawn immediately.

Mali’s top diplomat, Abdoulaye Diop, told the UN Security Council on Friday that the United Nations peacekeeping mission, which Germany participates in, had failed and that the troops must leave.

Diop said the mission, known as Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSMA), had not been able to respond adequately to the tense security situation.

MINUSMA was deployed in 2013 to support efforts to restore stability in Mali, which has endured an Islamic insurgency for years. Its mandate is up for renewal at the end of the month.

More than 12,000 soldiers take part in the multinational mission, including hundreds of German soldiers. In November it was decided by Berlin that the German military deployment would end by May 2024.

“Realism means noting the failure of MINUSMA, whose mandate is no longer up to facing the security challenges in the country,” Diop said in New York.

“MINUSMA seems to have become a part of the problem in fuelling inter-community tensions exacerbated by allegations of extreme gravity which are extremely harmful to peace, reconciliation, and to national cohesion,” Diop added.

Tensions between Mali and Western powers with a presence in the country have been growing.

Mali’s junta maintains close contact with Russia and is reported to have hired the Wagner Group of Russian mercenaries.

In response, France, the former colonial power, terminated its counterterrorism operation in Mali and withdrew its forces last year.

In Berlin, a spokeswoman for the Defence Ministry said that the government would support negotiations between the UN and Mali about the future of MINUSMA, while noting that Germany had already announced it would leave the country next year.

“That the Malian transition government and Russia will use the upcoming extension of the UN mandate to make political capital out of it does not surprise us. Our interest remains an orderly withdrawal.”

Since the start of the mission in 2013, around 170 peacekeepers have been killed, making it one of the most dangerous UN operations in the world.

Islamist terrorist groups have also been active in the north and centre of the country for more than a decade.

The Malian military seized power from a transitional government in 2021, pledging initially to hold elections in February 2022.

But these were later cancelled, with the military setting a time frame of five years to hold a democratic vote.

A referendum on a new constitution is to be held on Sunday that aims to pave the way for democratic elections in February 2024.

Chancellor: 1953 East German Uprising Proud Event in History of Freedom

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18/06/2023

Germany marks 70 years since anti-communist uprising in Berlin — 17 June 2023, Berlin: (L-R) President of the Bundesrat Peter Tschentscher, President of the Bundestag Barbel Bas, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President of the Federal Constitutional Court Stephan Harbarth lay wreaths at the central memorial service for the victims of the 17 June 1953, popular uprising at the Seestrasse cemetery. East German uprising of 1953 took place in East Germany from 16 to 17 June 1953. On 16 June, construction workers in East Berlin began a strike action against work quotas during the Sovietization process. Photo: Joerg Carstensen/dpa

Chancellor Olaf Scholz praised the popular uprising in former East Germany on June 17, 1953, as one of the most important and proudest events in the nation’s history of freedom.

At the time, it looked as if the uprising would be in vain, the Social Democrat (SPD) politician said on Saturday at the commemoration in Berlin of the victims of the suppression in the now-defunct communist state. “But those sacrifices were not in vain, we see that more clearly today.”

Scholz added that during the peaceful revolution in East Germany in 1989, the “great vision of freedom and self-determination” was realized.

The demonstrators of 1989 had not referred to their predecessors in 1953 because they had known little about them, he said, referring to the later movement that would eventually lead to the downfall of the East German regime. Nevertheless, he said, “a direct line” existed between the two events.

Scholz commemorated the events together with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Bärbel Bas, who is president of the lower house of parliament, or Bundestag, Peter Tschentscher, who is president of the upper house, or Bundesrat, Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner and others.

They gathered at Berlin’s Seestraße cemetery in the former western part of the city, where several victims of the popular uprising are buried. Protesting workers had moved there at the time.

About 1 million people took to the streets on June 17, 1953, in 700 places in what was then East Germany. They demonstrated against stricter labour conditions, but also for more prosperity, free elections and an end to the division of Germany.

The Soviet occupation forces, together with the East German authorities, put down the protests. At least 55 people were killed.

Oscotech Rector Escapes Assassination Attempt

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10/01/2023

The Rector of Osun State College of Technology, Esa Oke, Dr. Samson Adegoke, on Monday, narrowly escaped death when his vehicle was reportedly shot at by suspected assassins.

According to sources, Adegoke had left Esa Oke for Ilesa town some minutes to 4 pm, when suspected assassins traveling in a Toyota Camry opened fire on his vehicle.

Although Adegoke and his driver escaped unhurt, the vehicle he was traveling in was reportedly badly damaged as a result of the bullets fired into it by the assailants.

When contacted, Adegoke confirmed the incident, saying the attack was reported to the police in Ijebu Jesa.

He said, “It happened between 3:30 and 4 pm on Monday at Eti Oni junction, (an area between Ijebu Jesa and Esa Oke). I was coming from school (Esa Oke), and a Toyota Camry was trying to drive against traffic and overtake us.

“Unfortunately for him, a tipper was coming, so the car could not overtake us. And we were able to go ahead. Thereafter, the car drove close to us and opened fire but we didn’t stop.

“We were going until the vehicle could no longer move again. I reported the incident to the police at Ijebu Jesa police station and they are on it. Police said they are taking steps.”

Osun Police Command Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, during an interview told Punch correspondent that the incident was reported, adding that the Command had already commenced an investigation into it.

EU: Russia playing ‘hunger games’ by blocking Ukraine grain exports

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26/06/2022

European Council President Charles Michel has condemned Russia’s “hunger games,” saying that the Kremlin is “solely responsible for the global food crisis causing suffering in the poorest countries and low-income households.”

Speaking shortly before the start of a G7 summit in the Bavarian Alps, Michel said the Kremlin “is using food as a silent weapon of war, and we must vigorously counter Russia’s propaganda about food and fertilizer prices.”

Russia was “blockading ports, attacking agricultural infrastructure, turning fields of wheat into fields of war,” he said.

The war in Ukraine, now in its fifth month, is preventing grain from leaving the country’s ports and making food more expensive across the globe.

“Time is running out and the EU is working on alternatives for Ukraine agricultural products,” Michel said.

Obi: The Dilemma To Change

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09/06/2022

Based on previous election statistics it is an obvious fact that to win the presidential election you will need at least 15 million votes. With 7 months to the presidential elections i doubt if 15 million people in this country knows who Peter Obi is or will be willing enough to shift their habitual PDP/APC voting stance.

The Labour Party needs numbers and money which APC speaks in few billions of it with the sales of forms alone.

Looking at numbers, there are about 176,846 polling units in Nigeria. Where APC and PDP can afford to have at least 2 party agents present at EVERY polling unit on Election Day to do their bidding. The LP or other political parties simply cannot. These party agents have to be paid, sheltered and fed. Looking at Nigeria Polity It’s not something that volunteering can fix. You will not find 176846 volunteers nationwide. To address these problems, we need money. Money to campaign. Yes, even Peter Obi must campaign and try to out campaign the two big political parties because they have far greater brand & name recognition. It doesn’t matter if the recognition is for bad things. They have it and they know they do.

The financial implications of the logistics of a presidential campaign and election are nightmarish. How much money does the LP have? The APC/PDP have a lot more. We watched -in real time how 23 people bought APC presidential forms and some people picked up forms for not party members lik GEJ and Femi Adesina (the president of AfDB) and both hassince distanced themselves from the race. With over 2.8 billion raised. It isn’t even a fraction of what’s in the APC coffers as the party in power at thhe national level. Same for the PDP whom have served 16 year before the APC.

Is Obi going to campaign with personal funds? (well, he can try) Where will the LP get this money from? (since they cant even boast of having state governor) The LP will also have to win some gubernatorial & National Assembly seats. They’re going to have to push Obi and at least a dozen other strong candidates in different positions nationwide simultaneously.

To take thhe game off APC/PDP households i will suggest a coalitions. The LP will have to merge with various regional parties like APGA, NNPP, KOWA, SDP, etc. Do that and you suddenly have a lot of party agents in a lot of places. You suddenly have more money(even if its not up to what APC alone has), you’re suddenly more recognisable. And add up aggrieved members of APC and PDP to your camp. This was how the APC was formed in the first place, coalitions & alliances.

Long story, cut short Obi and the LP must align with some of the same politicians & some of the same type of politics his supporters claim to detest so much.

Now a sacrastic reminder, All the other parties in the country combined couldn’t get close to as many votes as either the APC or the PDD. LP had five thousand votes. They’ll certainly have more this in 2023 but 15 million, looks like a tall dream.

We will need to sell our souls to the devil. It’s that simple. We will have to convince some PDP & APC [you have to weaken both] big names to come over or we will have to form a strategic alliance with the PDP. You might detest me the more by reading this and say i dont know what i am saying. Good. Politics in Nigerian is played by dirty politicians and its very difficult.

For Peter Obi or anyone else for that matter to say you want to send APC out of Aso rock or even be certain that Atiku is truely not the best option to replace Buhari in 2023, you should have started work since 2015, and not relent in effort till date. I am no political expert, i even just realise i cant win a poll against my wife with my children as voters, The only party that had come close is APGA. But even they can’t play at national level yet. And their house is dicipating

For the fresh blood to come, for that dream change to happen, for that Nigeria for all Nigerians to realy happen, it has to be from within the big 2.

2023 Elections: Makinde Wins Oyo PDP Gubernatorial Ticket

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25/05/2022

The Oyo State Governor, Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, has emerged the gubernatorial candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, at the just concluded primary election held at Lekan Salami Stadium.

Governor Makinde polled a total of 1,040 votes to defeat his opponent, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarunmi, who polled two votes.

The returning officer, Mr Ben Obi, who was represented by Mr Abdullahi Mai Baswor made the declaration on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, in Ibadan, the State capital.

Earlier, the State PDP Gubernatorial Aspirant, Alhaji Gbolarumi, had declared Governor Makinde as the only recognised Oyo State PDP Party leader.

Alhaji Gbolarumi made the declaration while addressing the Party delegates before the PDP Governorship Primary election; stressing the need for true reconciliation to bring back the aggrieved members to the Party.

Also addressing the delegates before the election, Governor Makinde had commended his only contender, Alhaji Gbolarumi for joining the governorship race.

Governor Makinde, who said they both agreed to follow the process, described his opponent’s efforts as deepening democracy in the Party; adding that no matter the outcome of the election, they would come together as brothers after the primary.

Remains Of Ọ̀wọ̀ Kingdom’ Livestock Sellers’ Matron, Olorì Rachael Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá, Interred

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25/05/2022

The remains of late Olorì Rachael Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá, the Matron of Livestock Sellers in Ọ̀wọ̀ Kingdom, has been laid to rest.

The Lords New Church Cathedral, Fajuyi Road, Ọ̀wọ̀, Ondo State went alive as families, relatives, friends gathered at the befitting funeral accorded the late Olorì Rachael Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá, who was until her demise, mother in-law to the immediate past Director of Finance, Broadcasting Corporation of Ọyọ State, BCOS, Mr Sunday Òkélẹ́yẹ.

The children of the deceased, including the wife of the immediate past BCOS Director of Finance, Mrs. Ọmọ́táyọ̀ Òkélẹ́yẹ, nee Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá, families, some Management and Staff of the BCOS and well wishers in beautiful attires accompanied the late Olorì who rode in cart horse to the Church and her final resting place.

Speaking at the well attended event, the Preacher, who is also the Pastor in-charge of the Church, The Revd Edward Ogungbuji said the vacuum created by Mama Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá’s departure would be so difficult to fill.

He called on Christians to live lives of impacts and preparedness for their eternal home while alive.

The remains of Late Olori Rachael Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá was later interred at her Ọ̀wọ̀ residence with various cultural display before the interment.

Speaking with Newsmen, the children eulogised the great virtues of their late mother, while other people who also spoke at the funeral service described the late Olorì as a good Community and Market Leader..

Earlier, as a mark of honour and tradition, the remains of Olori Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá was taken round important family houses to bade her bye.

Reception was later held at an event centre in Ọ̀wọ̀ with two popular musicians on the band stand with lots to eat and drink.

Late Mama Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá was born to the family of late Pa Samuel Fámúwiyèlé in Ọ̀wọ̀, Ondo State, in 1933.

She got married to her husband, Prince Imam Saka Ọ̀kínbádéwá Ẹkùngbá of the Elewuokun Royal dynasty of Ọ̀wọ̀ Kingdom, and the marriage was blessed with many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Though she did not acquire formal education, Mama Bádéwá Ẹkùngbá was an astute business woman from her young age, who came, fought and bow to the call to glory on February 13, 2022.

Your 2023 Defeat’ll Be Worse – Oyo PDP Tells Adelabu

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13/05/2022

The Oyo state ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in replied to unprovoked derogatory comments by the duo of Bayo Adelabu and Senator Teslim Folarin at their respective governorship declaration events held in Ibadan on Monday and Tuesday maintaining that 2023 election defeat to Governor Seyi Makinde would be worse than 2019.

Oyo state PDP described Adelabu and Folarin’s comments against Governor Seyi Makinde as mere outbursts of desperate power thirty politicians aimed at motivating their demoralized loyalists who are still bewildered by the unexpected and unprecedented success recorded within less than three years in office.

A statement by the state Publicity Secretary of PDP in Oyo state, Akeem Olatunji on Thursday May 12 cautioned Adelabu and Folarin against reckless and unguarded utterances against the Governor in the name of politicking even as the political build up ahead of 2023 continues to heighten up.

According to the PDP in Oyo state, Adelabu and Folarin have clearly shown the depth of their political ignorance and naivety with what was called show of shame by failing to take advantage of their declaration to market themselves to the people but rather resorted to personality and individual attack against the person of Governor Makinde who’s success in office as governor has since become a benchmark for good governance in the entire country.

The ruling party in its press statement said the All Progressives Congress in the state is reputable for sheer false propaganda and can not be taken seriously by any serious minded Nigerian regardless of how loud the party tries to engage in personality attacks instead of political campaigns.

While warning against campaign of calumny capable of heating up the polity, the ruling party advised Adelabu to be wary of praise singers and bootlickers surrounding him and also deceiving him on the alter of individual throats. The party stressed that ‘Penkele’ as he is popularly known is only surrounded by political rookies.

The party also wondered how Seyi Makinde who is too busy fulfilling his mandate as the Governor has suddenly become the nightmare of both Adelabu and Folarin who should focus on first getting the APC ticket to contest in the general election noting that only political ignoramus with untamed desperation for power channels energy, time and resources to jump guns instead first crossing the first all important political huddle.

The PDP’s statement read, “It is sad and very pathetic that Nigeria’s political space in the state is experiencing such shameful dance of macabre by those who should continue to beg for forgiveness from the good people of Oyo state upon which undeserved terror and unspeakable hardship were unleashed for eight uninterrupted years.

“It is ridiculously fascinating if not funny to state that such abnormality in our political setting can only be sustained in an environment like ours where desperate and power thirsty politicians take full advantage of political orphans gasping for air for survival so much that they don’t care even if Satan comes out of hell to declare for governorship seat on the platform of the APC.

“It is even more amusing that political ignoramus like Adelabu and Folarin have continued to pick the wrong political fight at the wrong time because any informed and sound politician must know that before you even stand a chance to contest an election, you must first have your party’s mandate in your hand. It is therefore, rather hilarious to note that rather than selling themselves to their party to secure their party ticket they’re busy attacking Seyi Makinde who’s success in less than three years has since been the benchmark for good governance in the whole of Nigeria.

“For the sake of political education, Adelabu and Folarin should first secure their party’s mandate or how do we explain a situation where aspirants go to their respective governorship declaration venues to attack a performing governor with sheer falsehood instead of telling the world and their party stakeholders what they have, if any, to offer, different from the unrivaled failure APC recorded for eight requiring total forgiveness from the good people of the state.

“Adelabu kept screaming prompt payment of salaries is not an achievement but as a member of the last administration, failed to explain to the world why not only civil servants but also pensioners and retirees were made to suffer delibrate refusal to pay same salaries for over a year thereby mocking the state workforce and turning them to beggars in their own state while others died while pursuing what rightly belongs to them.

“Penkele said Makinde’s government has achieved nothing in education. It is obvious he still lives in self denial of obvious reality and delusion because combined force of Late Ajimobi as governor and Tinubu as the pro-chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology of Technology (LAUTECH) for eight whole years could not achieve what Governor Makinde has achieved with acquisition of sole ownership, adequate funding, improved course accreditation and others still counting all under three years.

“Penkele further affirmed his unbridled desperation and political nativity when he alleged Makinde for completing uncompleted projects of the last administration. That further proves to the world what calibre of political neophyte he is because any informed politician knows that new government inherits both assets and liabilities and it takes only a genuine leader with clear blueprints like Governor Makinde who has greatly reduced wastage by completing uncompleted works before starting new ones.

“Even visually and hearing impaired persons know a cheap lie told for the fun of it just to be seen to be talking in the absence of nothing to say that Makinde’s education policy and programs for public primary and secondary schools have not yielded results when in actual fact Oyo state has moved in qualityative education rating from 26 as inherited from APC government out of 36 in the country to 11 as we speak under Governor Makinde, while out of school children have continued to reduce drastically because of the free, quality, and compulsory education for every child policy.

“Our Professor ‘Pakute setter and propounder of ‘jagba politics’ of Oyo state, Teslim Folarin shamelessly accused Governor Makinde of insecurity in the state but failed to perform his primary duty of representation by channeling same energy to the APC led government in the red chambers as his other colleagues like Senator Smart Adeyemi and others who against partisan politics rose against the failure of the FG in defense of their people in their various state as a result of the politically motivated insecurity in the country.

“Folarin and Adelabu also accused Makinde of appointing Alhaji Mukaila Lamidi popularly known as Auxiliary as the Chairman, Oyo State Park Management System but failed to mention that both Ondo state and Lagos states have adopted Makinde’s template in their various states. It is not new to try to demarket your perceived political threat but this level of low that we currently witness is bewildering in our dear Oyo state.

“We can go on and on trying to educate these political rookies with unrestrained desperation for power but again we must enlighten them to pick up their party ticket first before we take it from here otherwise replying them with the same energy would mean sheep following pigs into the swamp for food.” The Oyo state PDP stated.

ASUU Extends 12 Weeks Old Strike by Another 12 Weeks.

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09/05/2022

The Academic Staff Union of Universities has announced it is embarking on another 12 weeks strike action.

ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke in a report, said this was to give the Government enough time to satisfactorily resolve all the outstanding issues.

It also stated that the roll-over strike was effective from 12.01 am, May 8, 2021.

ASUU said it took this decision after its National Executive Council meeting which started on Sunday night at the Comrade Festus Iyayi National Secretariat, University of Abuja.

It would be recalled that ASUU embarked on a warning strike on the 14th of February, 2022, and now rolled over by another 12 Weeks.

Meanwhile, sStudents have commenced mass mobilisation across States, including Lagos, Ilorin and Imo, against the continued strike action by ASUU and Non-Teaching Staff Unions.

It was reported that students have decided to embark on peaceful march on the streets because there seems to be no end in sight to the ASUU strike, which has entered its third month.

Seven painful deaths that rocked Nigerian sports in 2021

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30/12/2021

The outgoing Year 2021 has been a torrid one, not just for sports, but for the country.

Though many ‘prophets’ predicted a better 2021 after the COVID-19 ravaged 2020, the reverse was the case.

There was an unimaginable surge in banditry and multiple breaches in the country’s security architecture; leading to the deaths of so many across all age categories.

Amid the chaos, some notable sporting figures also lost their lives, albeit majorly to different illnesses.

As PREMIUM TIMES takes a wrap on the year 2021, here are seven of the painful deaths that shook Nigerian sports in the outgoing year.

Joe Erico

The former Super Eagles goalkeeper died a few weeks into the new year in his sleep at 71.

He was survived by a wife and four children.

Erico, along with Shaibu Amodu and Stephen Keshi-all late, guided the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2002 World Cup jointly hosted by South Korea and Japan.

Unfortunately, the Nigeria Football Federation denied the trio the chance of leading the Eagles to the Mundial as they opted for Adegboye Onigbinde to lead Nigeria to that edition of the World Cup.

Yisa Shofoluwe

The death of the former Super Eagles defender came as a rude shock to many who never knew he was battling an illness.

The 53-year-old died in February 2021, after he was diagnosed with mild cerebral atrophy at the Prince and Life Medical Hospital, Ikorodu, Lagos.

He finally gave up the ghost at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital, LUTH after his medical condition worsened.

Fondly referred to as the ‘Dean of Defense’, Sofoluwe had 40 appearances for the national team.

He was a member of the Eagles squads which reached the final of the 1984 and 1988 AFCON tournaments.

Barnabas Imenger

The former Super Eagles midfielder was the team manager of NPFL side, Lobi Stars, until his death.

Imenger died at the National Hospital in Abuja in March 2021 after several days at the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, Benue State.

Imenger was part of the Super Eagles in the mid-90s and was part of the team that played at the 1995 FIFA Confederations Cup (King Fahd Cup) in Saudi Arabia.

He was the second-youngest member of that team at 19 years.

Bello Oyebanji

This was another sad case of a shining light cut short abruptly.

Oyebanji who was the head coach of Kwara State Badminton Team lost his life in a ghastly car accident along Oyo/Ogbomosho expressway in April.

The National para-badminton player was on his way to Lagos to get his visa ahead of an Olympic qualifier to prepare for the Tokyo Paralympics when he lost his life.

Among other accolades, Oyebanji won two bronze medals in the male’s singles SL3 and the double categories at the maiden International Africa Para-Badminton Championships in 2016 in Kampala, Uganda.

He was also a triple gold medallist at the African Para-Badminton Championships in 2018Advertisements

Kashimawo Laloko

The former Technical Director of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) died in March at the Sacred Heart Catholic Hospital, Abeokuta at 76.

Outside of being vocal and critical on football issues, we knew the veteran coach for his invaluable contributions to the Pepsi Football Academy.

The Academy nurtured many football talents in Nigeria to stardom. This list includes Mikel Obi, Osaze Odemwingie, Soga Sambo, Elderson Echiejile, Joseph Akpala, Yinka Adedeji, amongst many others.

Laloko also had a stint as the national team coach of The Gambia

Adamu Ejo

The Head Coach of Nigeria’s beach soccer national team fondly referred to as the Super Sand Eagles, died in May.

He was undergoing treatment for diabetes before his death.

Adamu, before his death, achieved quite a lot with the country’s beach soccer team, including inspiring them to one Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations title in Durban, South Africa.

He also led the country to four Beach Soccer World Cup tournaments, and Copa Lagos success three times.

Adamu, most recently, handled the Kogi Beach Soccer club, winning several national and international competitions, including a silver at Keta Cup in Ghana in 2016.

Paul Kehinde

A world record holder until his death, the late Powerlifter is a testimony to the assertion that there is ability in disability.

Kehinde died on Thursday (18 November) in Lagos at 33.

He made his international debut in 2010 and won his first major title at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Kehinde became the Paralympic champion at Rio 2016 in the men’s up to 65kg category and took the world title in the same event at the Mexico City 2017 World Championships.

He still holds the world record (221kg) in the men’s up to 65kg set at the Dubai 2018 World Cup.

Tinubu’s Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale Resigns

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07/09/2024

The Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, has tendered his resignation.

He said he resigned from his position as the spokesperson of President Bola Tinubu to squarely attend to health matters involving his nuclear family.

Ngelale, in a statement he posted on his Facebook page on Saturday, said he had informed the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, of his intention to proceed on an indefinite leave of absence.

The statement read, “On Friday, I submitted a memo to the Chief of Staff to the President informing my office that I am proceeding on an indefinite leave of absence to frontally deal with medical matters presently affecting my immediate, nuclear family.

“While I fully appreciate that the ship of state waits for no man, this agonizing decision — entailing a pause of my functions as the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity and Official Spokesperson of the President; Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen — was taken after significant consultations with my family over the past several days as a vexatious medical situation has worsened at home.

I look forward to returning to full-time national service when time, healing, and fate permit. I respectfully ask for some privacy for my family and I during this time.”

Nigeria’s Flora Ugwunwa Wins Medal

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07/09/2024

Nigeria’s Flora Ugwunwa has won a Silver medal in women’s Javelin F54, finishing 2nd with a throw of 19.26m.

Ugwunwa won Nigeria’s first medal in Para-Athletics, taking the country’s overall tally to four medals won at the ongoing Paralympic Games in Paris.

The 40-year-old has now won her 3rd consecutive medal at the Paralympics: two GOLD medals (Rio & Tokyo) and now Silver (Paris).

FG Denies Ban On Under 18 WAEC, NECO Candidates

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07/09/2024

The Federal Government has declared that there are no age restrictions for taking the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC).

The government explained that it only restricted the age for sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and entry into the university to 18 years beginning from 2025, and the decision was not binding on students sitting for examinations conducted by the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC).

Minister of State for Education, Dr Tanko Sununu, made the clarification in Abuja on Friday during a press conference to herald the 2024 World Literacy Day with the theme “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace”.

He said: “As regards this matter, we have made ourselves clear in different fora. But the issue kept recurring here and there. Actually, nobody among the two of us, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, nor the Minister of State, stated anything about the age limit for WAEC, NECO or NABTEB

“People just pick up some remarks the Minister made, misinterpreted the statements to imply that age restriction has been placed for WAEC and NECO examinations. What we have been mentioning in the past was the entry age for University, candidates sitting for the UTME. We have made this clear several times, and this is in line with the National Policy on Education

“The document stated that a child is expected to enter Primary School at six years, and he’s expected to spend six years in that school making it 12 years, three years each in junior and senior secondary schools, making it 18 years. That’s what is contained in the National Policy on Education document.

“This is directly or otherwise related to the theme of this year’s World Literacy Day. The Policy further stated that a child should learn in the language of the immediate environment or mother tongue up till primary three before English language could be introduced in subsequent years. That has facilitated learning at that level because you can easily communicate.”

Ondo Governor Appoints Over Three Hundred Aides

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07/09/2024

In continuation of efforts to enhance governance and service delivery to the people of the State, the Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the appointment of new Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs).

The new appointments are spread across the 18 Local Government Areas, 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and 203 Wards in the State.

The new appointees are:

SENIOR SPECIAL ASSISTANTS (SSAs)
1 HON. OMOTAYO ABIDAKUN
2 HON AKINTOYE ALBERT
3 AKINDELE ADENIYI
4 HON FOLAWE SIPASI
5 MICHEAL BOLODEOKU
6 HON ISIAKA ELEGBERUNIBON
7 CHIEF LADI TENABE
8 BARR FOLAJIMI OLASEHINDE VICENTE
9 BAR CLEMENT KOLAPO OJO
10 HON SOLA OLUYEDE
11 SOLOMON ELEFOLA
12 BARR. AJIMOTOKIN OLUSEGUN
13 EWATOMILOLA EMIOLA
14 AKINROTOYE OLAFUSI KEHINDE
15 HON OLAMIGOKE BUSAYO FRANCIS
16 ADESEMOYE ADEDAPO OLASEINDE
17 MRS MORENIKEJI ALAGA
18 ALEX OLADIMEJI
19 OLOWUJUNI SHEDRACK
20 NICHOLAS AKINBIOLA
21 HON. SOLOMON ADEJARE ADEYEFA
22 OLUYEMI FASIPE
23 BAYO OLATUNJI SEGEDE
24 PHILEMON EBIESUWA
25 ABIDEMI IWAJOMO
26 GBAMILA TAIWO
27 AKIN OMOJUWA
28 HON DARIJIMI LOGO

SPECIAL ASSISTANTS (SAs)
1 SOLA NERI
2 HON OLANIYI ENI-OLOTU
3 ADEOLU IWAKUN
4 HON MAKINDE OLANREWAJU
5 OMOTAYO VINCENT OLIBAMOYO
6 HON BUNMI OLAWOYE
7 MRS RONKE TASHILANI
8 HON IDEBI MICHAEL
9 ALHAJA RAFAT AHMED
10 HON IDEBI MICHAEL
11 HON NAJEEM ADEGBOYE
12 MR FADOJU SUNDAY OLANIYI
13 DR ADEMOLA ADEGBOYE
14 ALIU OLALEKAN
15 ROBERT AKINKUNMI
16 FELIX ESAN
17 SOLA ADEGBOLA
18 TOYIN BENSON
19 OLORUNTOBA MICHAEL SUNKANMI
20 BOSEDE SAMA
21 HON SHOLA ALAJO
22 RABIU OLUWASEGUN KAYODE
23 ABEGUNDE TAYO
24 OMOLAYO TOPE
25 OLASUNKANMI AKINROGBE
26 OLADIMEJI OLANREWAJU
27 OLABODE ANIMASAHUN
28 MRS OLAYINKA O. ANUNOBI
29 MRS FAMUSIWA ODUNAYO
30 MR WALE THOMAS
31 MR JIMOH YINUS
32 MRS FUNKE ARUNA
33 TOLU ILORI OGUNBADEJO
34 OLALEYE OLADIMEJI AJEGUNMA
35 MAXWELL OMOSUWA
36 AZEEZ OLATUNDE OLAYINKA
37 OLADIMEJI OKEYEMI OLUWAKEMI
38 IJASAN WILLSON OLARINDE
39 OMOLARA AKINROGBE
40 OLABISI BALOGUN
41 OROFIN OGOOLUWA
42 SIJU OMONOJO
43 RT. HON DAISI ODOGUN
44 DR. OMOTOSHO SALIU ADEWOLE
45 MRS. ADEJORE LYDIA
46 ELIJAH AKINLOYE BALOGUN
47 DAVID GODSPOWER ILAYE
48 HON CENSUS OGBARO
49 TOPE GLORY MESHACK
50 HON BUNMI OSABIYA
51 TUNDE OWANIKI
52 JUSTINA MAFOLABOMI
53 JOHN IFEOLUWA AWODEYI
54 SALIU MUMUNI
55 OSENI MUYIDEEN
56 AIDI FATAI
57 ROTIMI EKUNDAYO
58 AGUDA SUNDAY
59 LATEEF BALOGUN
60 UARUDEEN ABDULASIS
61 FOLASHADE BALOGUN
62 OGUNMODEDE MAGARET ATINUKE
63 SALIU ADEYEMI
64 RAZAK TAIWO IBILOYE
65 LATEEF AHMED
66 OLUGBENGA AJAYI
67 MRS YINKA OGUNLEYE
68 FAUSATBALOGUN
69 HON ADE PELEMO
70 ROTIMI KAREEM
71 OGUNGBEMI FASANSI KEHINDE
72 ENAS MOHAMMED
73 ADEOLA R. FYNCH
74 OLATUNBOSUN OGUNLEYE
75 OLAGUNJU OLASEHINDE
76 ALHAJA F. I. GIDADO
77 ABIODUN KIKIOWO
78 HON JULIUS MESHE
79 PRINCESS OREOLUWA AGBAYEWA
80 LAWRENCE OWOLANKE
81 ANTHONY MAYOWA OGUNMODEDE
82 ALADE MARGRET ABIOLA
83 AKOSILE OYENIYI OYEYINKA
84 MR AMIMI JULIUS FOLUSO
85 DAPO ADEPOJU
86 AKINTOYE OLATUNJI
87 OLAJIDE OLABISI-OJO
88 MR FALEYE SUNDAY
89 EWAJANE SAMSON KAYODE
90 TITI OPARINDE
91 MR JIMOH TOSIN
92 MR LATEEF BALOGUN
93 MUYIWA ADEBAYO
94 REV TAYO ABISOLA
95 OJO AJAYI
96 OLAWALE EDDO
97 PAUL ADENIYI
98 OLAYINKA JOHNSON MODUPE
99 HON DELE FAGORIOLA
100 YEMISI ALADESAYE
101 SODIQ WILLIAMS
102 HON IDOWU AKINSOLA
103 TUYI FATUKASI
104 AYODELE ADEWOLE
105 AJULO OLAWALE
106 MR OMOSEKE OLAWALE
107 OMOTUNMISE TOKUNBO
108 MICHEAL AFOLABI
109 MRS OBAYA
110 TOPE ALUKO
111 DAMILOLA ABBEY
112 ADEFISOYE HAMMED
113 MR ADEUTI OLUMIDE
114 MR OLAWOLE SUNDAY
115 HON HENRY OLATUJA
116 OLONIMOYO OLUBUNMI
117 MR ADEGUNLOYE FIOYE
118 AKINYO TOBI
119 HON BIYI AYANNOLA
120 AKINIOYE LANRE
121 JOSIAH ADEWOLE
122 HON OMOKINSUN SUNDAY
123 AKINDE ABIMBOLA SILAS
124 ENIOLA ISAAC
125 OLANEGAN OLADIMEJI
126 ADEREMI OYEWOLE
127 ENGR AKIN AKINBAMIDO
128 PASTOR MARCUS ADEOTI
129 MR ANDREW ADENODI
130 JIMOH IBRAHIM 131 DR ANTHONY ENIOLA
132 COMRADE OMOTAYO
133 HON FATAI OLUGUNA
134 OMOLERE AKINRINMADE
135 MRS MOPELOLA DINYO
136 MRS RALIAT ADENIKE OLAWOYE
137 JOHNSON OLAWOLE AKINLOSOTU
138 ADEBOYE TAOFEEK EWENLA
139 ADEALA ADEMULEGUN
140 ABIOLA FAYEHUN
141 MR FOLAMI RICHARD AKINTEWE
142 CHIEF MRS GRACE AKINRIBIDE
143 TAOFEEK AZEEZ
144 HON IFEOLU LASAN
145 MR BANKOLE ADEGBULUGBE
146 HABIB YEKINI
147 WALE AYEJUNI
148 PIPE IKOTUN
149 AKINTUNDE JOHN FOLAJIMI
150 FLORENCE OLAWOYE
151 OYETUNDE MUKAILA AKEREKORO
152 MRS BOLAJOKO OYEDELE
153 ALHAJI RASHEED OLAWOYE
154 AGBOOLA LEPE
155 ALABA ORIRETAN
156 HON AKINSUNMI DAYO
157 HON AROWOLO MOSES ILEMOBADE
158 MR. OLUFEMI BABATUNDE
159 MR ADEYEMI AREMU
160 MRS TOLA ADEYEMI
161 ENGR JIMI AKINRINMADE
162 SOLA AKINMEJIWA
163 MR OLALEKAN OLAYINKA
164 MR ADEGEYE KEHINDE PAUL
165 SALAUDEEN WAHEED
166 TOPE AKINNEYE
167 OLAWUNMI SEYI
168 HON WALE AKINKUOTU
169 JOSEPH KOKUMO
170 HON OBANLA KEHINDE SAMUEL
171 CHIEF MRS YEMI AJONIBODE
172 CHIEF MALOMO BAYODE OJO
173 HON FAFUNMILADE TILEEWA
174 SHABA BABATUNDE
175 HON AZEEZ AWE ELI
176 BAWA AKINSANYA
177 OLAYODE EMMAN JAYEOLA
178 PRINCESS FOLAKEMI OGUNSILE
180 MR ALU OJO EMMANUEL
181 BODE AWE
182 SEIDU FATAI OYEWOLE
183 OLORUNFEMI CHRISTOPHER
184 UMAR MUSLIU BOBOYE
185 AKEJU AGUNLOYE
186 AGBI STEPHEN OMOBAMIDELE
187 OLUMIDE AWOLUMATE
188 MRS AIYEGBUSI BRIDGET ADUNNI
189 OLOWOMUKE OMONIYI
190 HON AYENIYI OLAYEYE
191 HON BORIRE SUNDAY SOLA
192 SUNDAY OTEKAYE
193 OYEPITAN SUNDAY
194 FEMI OLADOKUN
195 AYETIRAN OLAJIDE PETER
196 ODOLE VICTOR
197 ADEBAYO AUGUSTINE
198 FEMI JOHNSON
199 IKUYINMINU IBIKUNLE
200 IKULALA SEUN
201 MORAYO JOSEPHINE ITIOLU
202 ADETARAMI OLOWOLAFE
203 BIDEMI ABAYAGBON
204 SEGUN LEMAN
205 ANDREW IDOWU EDEMA
206 MRS OLAWUNMI MEDAHUNSI
207 KUNLE OROKOTAN 208 PRINCESS AGBEKE CECILIA OROJO
209 MR OMOYELE ABRAHAM
210 HON (CHIEF) RAPHAEL ABEJOYE
211 RT. HON DOYE OLAJIDE
212 HON IKUPOLUYI AJINDE
213 MR FAMOUS GUNTEI
214 COMRADE TIEWEI EBIMOTIMI AKINS
215 HON BARR CORPORAL E. NANAOPIRI
216 BARR EDDY KPILIBOH
217 COM.JAPHET EREGHA
218 HON IJI WARERE
219 OMOMOFE KOLEDOYE
220 BARR LEKAN OBOLO
221 BLESSING MEFUN
222 ALORE OMOSUYI
223 BARR AKOJE TOPIC
224 PRINCESS YEMISI IJI AYEOLA
225 WILLIAMS EBI
226 TIMI SOBUJON
227 TAYO KUPOLUYI
228 MR AWENE ODIGHIMIYENTIMI
229 BARR BISI AYENI
230 AJOBIEWE DAVID
231 OTERUKU SUNDAY
232 AROGUNDADE SEGUN
233 OMOLORUN CHRIS
234 BIOLA BALOGUN
235 SOLOMON OGUNNIYI
236 BARR. PETER ALABA OJO
237 OMOBA ADEDAPO ABIOLA
238 OLANIKE ADAMS
239 OLADOTUN ADESIDA
240 GIDEON OMOJOLA
241 OGUNLEYE JOSHUA
242 MRS (CHIEF) BUKUNMI AKEJU
243 MR ADEBAYO CYRIL
244 HON GBOGI EMMANUEL
245 AYODELE ADEYEMI
246 HON JEROME ABIODUN
247 OLUMIDE AKOMOLAFE
248 MRS YEMI AKEJU
249 BIOLA CHRISTIANA IJIMAKINWA
250 MRS. OYINKANSOLA WILLIAMS AROLOYE
251 MR. SUNDAY OLALUBI
252 MR FALADE AYODELE
253 CHIEF ABULOYE BANJI
254 BARR ASANI BAKARE
255 DARE AJAYI
260 MR KUNLE ADU
261 MR. TUNDE ADEGBONMIRE
262 MR. AYODEJI ORIKOGBO
263 MR. GBENGA ADU
264 ADEGUNLEHIN JOSHUA
265 IFEDAYO AYODELE FEMI
266 AANU OBEBE
267 AKOSILE ESTHER
268 DR. AKINBOLADE OMOSUWA
269 CHIEF ALADEKUGBE SOLA
270 HON. ADEBUSOYE JOSHUA .O
271 OLUWAROTIMI ILUYEMI
272 AYODELE JOHNSON
273 SAYO OGUNMADE
274 CHIEF OLATUNJI JOHN
275 SEGUN OMOYOFUNMI
276 NELSON MAFO
277 TALE ADEBAWO
278 SINA AKINMADE
279 SUNDAY AROGBO
280 YETUNDE ADEFUWA
281 DAVID OBAJULAYE
282 LAWSON AKINTOKUN
283 EVANG OLADOKU MOYEYE
284 BOSE OLOWODARA
285 EGBOWON BAYO
286 DR BELLO TITUS ABIODUN
287 OLATINPO OLANIYI OLUKAYODE
288 AMINU VINCENT
289 HON FEMI AGBEDE
290 MR GABRIEL ENIALOLA AYIMORO
291 MR. TEMITOPE SHABA
292 ELDER ADEGBOLA RUFUS
293 MR GBODE OJO
294 MRS OJULAYO IRETI IDEHEN
295 HON AJAYI JOHNSON ADEDAYO
296 MRS IRETI IDEHEN
297 TIMOTHY KOREDE
298 AREMO CHRISTOPHER
299 DESMOND KOLAWOLE
300 BUSAYO OGUNYEMI
301 HON. JEROME OLORUNYOLEMI AKINLOYE
302 MR. TOYIN ADEPOJU
303 FADARE AKINTOMIWA BABTUNDE
304 HON ADENUGBA A. LAWRENCE
305 HON. FADAMITAN SINA KUNLE
306 KEHINDE OMOYELE
307 PASTOR IGE SUNDAY ADETOYE
308 CHARLES ADEDEJI
309 KEHINDE TAIWO
310 FADARE AKINTOMIWA BABATUNDE
311 AKINBOYEDE BOSE
312 ADEDINNNI MICHEAL OLUWATOSIN
313 KOLA DAVIS
314 MRS AKINMUSOLA ELIZABERTH BOSEDE
315 THICK DEBO OBAZUAYE
316 EMMANUEL GBOTEMI IGIOWO

While congratulating the new appointees, the Governor urged them to bring to bear their wealth of experience and dedicate themselves to serving the people of the State.

National Flag Designer Buries In Ibadan

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07/09/2024

Oyo Govt Expresses Dissatisfaction With FG

The Oyo state government has expressed dissatisfaction over lack of support from the federal government in organising a befitting burial rites for the Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, who designed national flag

At the Lying-in-State and Funeral Service held for the national hero at the liberty stadium, Ibadan, Acting governor of Oyo State, Chief Lawal who spoke for the state government explained that the burial of Mr flag should not behave been left with Oyo state government and the family alone.

Chief Lawal, who gave a short tribute after paying his last respect to Pa Akinkunmi where his body was displayed, noted that going by the place of pa Akinkunmi in Nigeria’s history, the federal government should declare a more befitting programme to immortalise the man whose creative work holds the country united till today.

Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, whose remains were interred at his private residence, was a national honour recipient of the Officer of the Order of Federal Republic, OFR. He died on 29th August, 2023 at the age of 87. Speaking on behalf of the family, Son of the deceased Akinwunmi Akinkunmi lamented that the burial suffered delay due to unfulfilled promises from government who prevailed on the family not to rush his committal

We fought many battles while our father was kept in the morgue for one year. The family had initially taken the decision to burry him in our own way but, they came from government that we should allow them to honour him. All we got was zero promises, all thanks to the Oyo state governor Seyi Makinde who gave us money and support “.

In his sermon, The General Overseer, The Gospel Faith Mission International, GOFAMINT, Pastor Elijah Abina, Represented by the General Secretary, Pastor Solomon Omowumi, enjoined the people to evolve means of contributing their quota to the development of the country rather than being over reliant on the government.

OGSIEC AMENDS LG ELECTORAL GUIDELINES, REDUCES AGE LIMIT TO 25 YEARS

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06/09/2024

The Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has amended the age qualification for candidates in the forthcoming Local Government elections, reducing the minimum age from 30 to 25 years. This amendment follows a review of the laws governing the conduct of Local Government elections, bringing the guidelines in line with Sections 7 (4) & 106 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which stipulate that a candidate is qualified for election if he or she has attained the age of 25 years.

Following this adjustment, OGSIEC has extended the deadline for each party’s primaries by one week. The primaries, initially set to end on Monday, September 9, will now run until Monday, September 16, 2024. The collection of personal data forms (CF 001 and CF 002) by each political party has also been extended to Friday, September 20, 2024.

Political parties that have already conducted their primaries may collect the necessary forms for each of their candidates starting from Tuesday, September 10, 2024, with submissions accepted between Monday, September 16, and Friday, September 20, 2024.

Additionally, a meeting with all political parties has been scheduled for Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Commission’s Headquarters in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, at 12 noon. Each political party intending to participate in the forthcoming elections is requested to send no more than two representatives each to the meeting for further discussions.

All other schedules in the previously published election timetable remain unchanged, including the Chairmanship and Councillorship elections set to hold on November 16, 2023.

Babatunde A. Osibodu, Esq.
Chairman,
Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC)

Breaking News: Abeokuta South Elders and Leaders Nominated Balogun Olaniyi Afeez, two Others as Candidates

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05/09/2024

In a move to strengthen its chances in the upcoming council elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abeokuta South Local Government has shortlisted three exceptional aspirants for the coveted position of Local Government Chairman. This decision follows a rigorous selection process involving over 23 aspirants from the 15 Wards of the local government.

After a thorough deliberations, respected APC leaders and elders endorsed the following three candidates:

Balogun Olaniyi Afeez
Odetayo Bolade Mutiu
⁠Yinka Adegun

The endorsement was made at a meeting convened by Leaders, where the trio emerged as the preferred choice.

The three shortlisted names has been forwarded to the Governor for further review and selection.

The above Nominations are endorsed by the following leaders and elders:

Chief Alhaji Tajudeen Lemboye (GAC Member)
⁠Alhaji Muideen Soremekun (GAC Member)
⁠Hon. Mrs Olabisi Abiola (Former MHR/ GAC Member)
⁠Chief Olu Odeyemi ( Fmr. Commissioner for special duties/GAC Member)
⁠Rev. Owolabi (GAC Member)
⁠Hon. Afolabi M Afuape (MHR)
⁠Rt. Hon. Titilayo Oseni ( Fmr. Speaker OGHA)
⁠Hon. Ayodele Wasiu Sunday ( Member OGHA).
Hon. Olufemi Ilori-Oduntan (Commissioner for rural development )
Hon. Adefolu Sabur ( Ass. State Youth Leader of APC Ogun state)

Oyo Police Command Confirmed Kidnapping of Makinde’s Close Aide, Akika

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05/09/2024

..set for manhunt

The Oyo State police command has confirmed the kidnapping of Benedict Akika, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), by armed assailants. The incident occurred on Tuesday at Akika’s residence in Olorunda Abba, located in the Lagelu Local Government Area.

During an interview on Thursday in Ibadan, the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, stated that an investigation has been initiated into the incident. “Investigation has commenced into the matter. Updates will be provided accordingly,” Mr. Osifeso assured the public.

Witnesses reported that the attack on Akika’s home appeared to be well-coordinated, as gunmen overwhelmed his security staff before forcibly taking him away in a vehicle, leaving the local community in shock and fear.

The police have promised to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.

Fuel Price Increase: Afenifere Urges Fed Govt To Order NNPCL To Reverse Itself

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05/09/2024

… says the increase is compounding challenges Nigerians are facing

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, Afenifere, has called on the federal government to stick to the claim by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri, that President Bola Tinubu administration did not instruct the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to increase the fuel pump price by ordering the corporation to reverse the announced increment.

In a statement signed by the organization’s spokesman, Comrade Jare Ajayi, Afenifere asserted that Nigerians are currently going through a lot of challenges as a result biting socio-economic crunch and the attendant hardships.

“It is therefore a wrong time to come up with any policy that will increase the undesirable challenges Nigerians are going through presently. Failure by the NNPCL to reverse the latest increment in fuel price will rub off negatively on some policies of Tinubu administration to ease things for the citizens.

Policies such as the Students Loan Scheme and Consumer Credit Scheme that are just taking off”.

It would be recalled that the NNPCL, on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 raised the pump price of petrol to N897 per litre from the official price of N617. The announcement came just a few days after the national oil company said it was facing challenges of huge debt burden estimated at $6.8 billion.

Ironically, the announcement of the debt came just not long after the same corporation announced that it made a profit of N3.3 Trillion Net Profit in its 2023 Audited Financial Statement.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Lokpobiri, on Tuesday, announced, through his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Mr. Nnemeka Okafor, that his Ministry did not authorize the NNPCL to increase fuel pump price. “It is crucial, therefore, that the government order the corporation to reverse the price hike forthwith as it is already causing untold hardship for the people”.

With the latest increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) otherwise known as petrol to N897 per litre, the cost of fuel in Nigeria has risen by 460 per cent in 15 months.
Afenifere contended that it is curious that an organization that declared a profit running into trillions of Naira could, almost in the same breath, claim that it is indebted to the tune of nearly seven billion US dollars. “Why not pay off the debt from the available fund before declaring it as profit?”

The statement further argued that the oil corporation seems to be making Nigerians pay for its inefficiency.

“It is a common knowledge that the cost and availability of energy such as petrol, gas, electricity, diesel and kerosine are major factors not only in production and services but also on the quality of well-being that Nigerians can enjoy. Hikes in prices of these energy sources have astronomically increased the costs of services and commodities, reduced the disposal incomes of average Nigerians and heighten their health risk. The combination of all these are making a daily living an onerous task for the majority of the citizens. Considering the fact that millions of the Nigerians had been described as being ‘multi-dimensionally poor’, the recent hike in costs of fuel and electricity are uploading the number of people in that category phenomenally”.

While urging the federal government, through the appropriate channel(s), to immediately order the NNPCL to reverse the price increase, Afenifere feared that failure to do so may imperil the assurances being giving by President Bola Tinubu that Nigerians’ pains will soon be over”.

Former Finance Minister Emerges New Caretaker Chairman Of LP

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04/09/2024

The Labour Party has been plunged into further turmoil as the Julius Abure-led faction disowned the newly appointed caretaker chairman, Nenadi Usman.

Despite a previous Court of Appeal judgment affirming Abure as national chairman, the Labour Party National Convention constituted a caretaker committee, sparking controversy.

Earlier, Senator Usman was declared as the chairman of a 29-member national caretaker committee of the Labour Party (LP).

The announcement was made by the 2023 Presidential candidate of the party, Mr Peter Obi.

This was a decision taken at the Labour Party’s extended stakeholders meeting held at the Banquet Hall of the Abia State Government House in Umuahia, Abia State capital on Wednesday.

Reacting, the Abure-led faction rejected the caretaker committee, insisting that Abure remains the legitimate national chairman.

A statement signed by the national publicity secretary, Obiora Ifoh, described Nenadi Usman’s appointment as “illegal and unconstitutional”.

Ogun ANBROAD Visits National Presidents, Board Of Trustees

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04/09/2024

The Ogun State Executives of the Association of Nigerian Broadcasters , ANBROAD, has solicited unending supports of its National Executive Council and the Board ot Trustees to the State Chapter for the progress of the Association and its members

The appeal was the thrust of the State’s Executives courtesy visit to the National President of the Association, Comrade Abdulrasaq Abdulganeey and the Chairman of the Council of Elders who doubles as the CEO, YES FM, Comrade Yemi Sonde both in Ibadan.

Led by the Governor of the Association in Ogun State Comrade Gbenga Goke-Fadiran, the executives explained that the visit to these National leaders and veteran broadcasters was to appreciate their contributions to Broadcasting in Nigeria and development of members of the Association at various times.

He recalled that the National President is a strong pillar of Broadcasting in Nigeria whose career started in Abeokuta decades ago.

Adding to the accolades by the governor, other executives in the team applauded the skills and doggedness of the National President at promoting the growth of this young Association.
The speakers in turns requested assistance of the National President in areas of capacity building in terms of Scholarship and necessary trainings and retraining of members and mentorship, among others.

Responding, Comrade Abdulganeey who is the CEO of TNM Broadcasting Institute,Ibadan also highlighted the need for regular training and retaining of ANBROAD members and broadcasters saying the era of quacks in the profession is long gone, in view of the new challenges posed by the ICT revolution.
He promised to offer scholarships and regular training to Ogun State members at the Institute.
The National President also advised the new executive of the Association to run an all inclusive administration and be united in the interest of the development of the Association..

At the office of the Chairman Council of Elders and CEO YES FM , Comrade Yemi Sonde, The Ogun executives team was warmly received. Comrade Gbenga Goke-Fadiran eulogised quality of leadership skills, administrative prowess and broadcasting know-how of Comrade Yemi Sonde whose efforts had promoted countless number of broadcasters across the country.

The Ogun state team said the Association still required tremendous support and guidance of Yemi Sonde to make ANBROAD first among equals of other sister or similar Association in the Broadcasting industry.
Similarly the duo of Chief Mrs Ibiyemi Ajadi, a member of the Association’ s Board of Trustee and Elder Kola Adeleye, member Council of Elders remarked that but for Comrade Yemi Sonde, ANBROAD and its sister association would not have make meaningful impact in the industry.

In his remarks, Comrade Yemi Sonde expressed appreciation for the visit and accolade pour on him.
He enjoined the Ogun State ecxo to be accountable and be responsive to all members without assuming “the know it all” position at all times.

He promised to always support the Ogun State chapter and the Association as a whole because he assumed his present status as a Frontline media chief in Nigeria by virtue of his dedication, honesty and accountability in all activities and responsibilities given to him.

The Ogun State executive team to Ibadan were made up of the Governor, Genga Goke-Fadiran, his Deputy Flourish Ayomikun, Secretary of the Association, The Publicity Secretary, Olayemi Adewunmi and her Assistant, Omotolani Sheteolu and the Ex-officio officer, Hajia Ramalifa.
Others are, the member BOT, Chief Ibiyemi Ajadi and Elder Kola Adeleye, a member of the Elders’ Council.

Why NNPC Increases Pump Price of Fuel To N897

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04/09/2024

Two days after it cried out that the burden of petrol price has pushed it into over $6 billion debt, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Limited, on Tuesday morning, increased its pump price of fuel from N617 per litre to N897 per litre.

This is an increase of over 45 percent.

Checks at NNPC Retail stations in Abuja reflected the new fuel price.

“I’m not aware of this. Thank you for reaching out. I have no comment on the matter at this time.

“If there are any updates, I will make sure to inform you. I appreciate your understanding,” he responded via WhatsApp.

An unconfirmed trending message on social media platforms had earlier hinted at the new fuel price.

The message read: “Good morning all. This is to inform you that NNPC Retail Management has approved an upward review of PMS pump price from N617/litre to N897/litre effective today, 3rd September 2024.

“Please, ensure all your pumps and totems (price boards)/MIDs reflect the new PMS price of N897/liter. Thank you.”

Alao Mourns Passing of ex-Oyo SSG, Chief Michael Koleosh

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04/09/2024

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao (Allow Alao), has expressed his condolences to Mr. Tayo Koleosho, other members of the family and the people of Saki land, on the passing of Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso.

Chief Koleosho, former Secretary to Oyo State Government (SSG), National Chairman of Alliance for Democracy (AD) and Babalaje of Saki land, died on Monday, at the age of 86 years.

Alao in a condolence statement he personally signed, said he received the news of the passing of the reverred political leader with sadness, stating that he was one of the remaining progressives who joined politics to serve the people.

According to him, the death of Chief Koleosho is not a loss to his family, Saki land, Oke-Ogun, Oyo State but the country as a whole giving what he stood for, reputation and achievements throughout his sojourn as a politician.

He said, “I sincerely want to condole with my dear brother, Tayo a classmate of mine at Loyola College, Ibadan and other members of the family on death of our father and patriarch of the family, Chief Michael Koleosho.

“Papa a true progressive, mentor and guiding light to many of us who decided to be in politics was totally committed to worthy causes as he served truly served humanity to the best of his ability as a successful businessman and an accomplished leader in all spheres of human life.”

Alao then prayed to Almighty God to grant his soul eternal rest and give Tayo, other members of his immediate family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the great loss.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

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04/09/2024

President Tinubu Meets Chinese President XI JINPING; Elevates Ties To Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Tuesday in Beijing, China, announced the elevation of Nigeria-China ties to that of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The leaders also agreed to build a high-level Nigeria-China community with a shared future.

This was the outcome of talks between the two leaders during President Tinubu’s official visit to China.

President Tinubu’s official visit precedes his participation in the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, scheduled to hold from September 4-6, 2024.

”This is an important visit for Nigeria and the rest of Africa, as I arrive in my capacity as the Chairman of ECOWAS. I thank you for the high-level of honour accorded to us.

”Relations between China and Nigeria have indeed lasted for over half a century and should be further strengthened to advance our trade and economic development programmes.

”Nigeria holds great potential as the country with the largest population in Africa and is the biggest economy with a very young population that can drive economic growth and cross-sectoral programmes.

”We have upgraded the relationship to more than what is just strategic — but a comprehensive developmental partnership.

”This comprehensive strategic partnership should result in robust development, stability, and security in the West African sub-region. This is very crucial,” President Tinubu said.

On economic reforms in Nigeria, President Tinubu told his Chinese counterpart that his administration remains committed to sustainable growth through the effective implementation of ongoing economic reforms.

”We believe that President Xi has demonstrably reformed the Chinese economy, and our reform programme in Nigeria is on a similar course. I am a reformer with verifiable antecedents.

”We have recognized the need to reform our economy, and we are doing so diligently across tax and tariff reviews, to various other segments of our nation’s economy.

”Trading and investment partners will have easy access to bring in their investments and seamlessly take their resources out,” the President stated.

In his remarks, President Xi noted the strong mutual understanding between Nigeria and China since the establishment of diplomatic ties over the past 50 years.

”We have found the path of seeking collective strength, through unity, and win-win cooperation.

”China and Nigeria, as major developing countries, strengthening strategic coordination, will inject fresh impetus to China-Africa relations in the new era and spearhead common progress among Global South countries,” President Xi said.

According to the Chinese leader, the 2024 FOCAC Summit provides an opportunity to reflect on mutual friendships and advance the consolidation of China-Africa relations.

He pledged that China and Nigeria would continue to work closely within the FOCAC framework as a model of cooperation between nations.

During the meeting, both presidents witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on various areas of mutual interest:

(1) Cooperation plan between Nigeria and China on jointly promoting the Belt and Road Initiative

(2) Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the peaceful application of Nuclear Energy

(3) Memorandum of Understanding on strengthening cooperation on Human Resource Development under the Global Development Initiative

(4) Memorandum of Understanding on Media Exchange and Cooperation

(5) Memorandum of Understanding between China Media Group and the Nigerian Television Authority

Earlier, on Monday in Beijing, President Tinubu visited the China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), during which he acknowledged the company’s role as a reliable partner in Nigeria’s infrastructure development programme, commending its ongoing railway projects in the country.

”It is equally very important that we give assurances to the Nigerian people across our local communities that the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway segments will be completed and done to the satisfaction of Nigeria and West Africa at large.

”We will support your investment in solid minerals and other ventures in Nigeria. I am here to assure you that Nigeria is ready to do business with you,” the President said during a meeting with the Chairman of CRCC, Mr. Dai Hegen, following a tour of the CRCC and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) office in Beijing.

Mr. Hegen informed the President that CRCC has been involved in Nigeria for 43 years, implementing over 300 projects and training over 100,000 local workers.

”The Abuja-Kaduna Railway and Lagos-Ibadan Railway have transported approximately 9 million passengers and 180 tonnes of cargo. The Lagos blue line has transported over 1.6 million passengers,” he said.

In a separate engagement, President Tinubu visited Huawei Technologies’ Beijing Research Centre, where the company announced the launch of DigiTruck, a mobile ICT classroom aimed at enhancing digital literacy in underserved Nigerian communities.

During the President’s meeting with Huawei’s leadership, led by Mr. Liang Hua, Chairman of the Board of Directors, the company said the initiative would operate in 10 states annually, training at least 3,000 students each year.

Acknowledging the ongoing efforts by Nigeria’s Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to train 3 million technical talents (3MTT) and equip the country’s young population with the skills necessary for present and future economic opportunities, Huawei’s leadership said the DigiTruck initiative will complement the programme.

Mr. Hua praised the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for identifying digital technology as a critical driver of economic growth.

“This is very encouraging for us. Huawei is fully prepared to offer its ICT expertise and become a reliable partner of the Nigerian government to support the country in achieving its policy objectives and furthering its digital, intelligent, and low-carbon development.”

Also speaking, Mr. Chris Lu, Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Nigeria, expressed support for Nigeria’s National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), an initiative that seeks to position Nigeria as a hub for talent outsourcing in Africa.

“In the future, we hope to continuously develop the NOC and expand its capacity so that it can meet the requirements of more African markets, thus facilitating more Nigerian technology talents in serving more overseas’ markets and helping to achieve the goal of NATEP,” Mr. Lu said

During the tour of the Huawei Research Centre’s exhibition hall, President Tinubu and his delegation were introduced to Huawei’s latest innovations in e-government, smart education, smart grid, and solar power, demonstrating their potential to enhance public services, digital governance, and Nigeria’s inclusive development agenda.

As part of the efforts to achieve the aforementioned goals, Huawei also plans to establish a joint PV test lab with Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

September 3, 2024

Michael Koleoso’s Death, The End Of An Era – Makinde

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03/09/2024

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has described the death of a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government and former National Chairman of the defunct Alliance for Democracy, Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso, as the end of an era.

The governor said Oyo State and Nigeria have lost a great patriot and a political icon, who played outstanding roles in national development.

Governor Makinde, in a statement on Tuesday, noted that Koleoso, who until his death was the Babalaje of Saki, was one of the last men standing from a generation of great men and women who gave their best to serving Oyo State and Nigeria.
Also Read: What I Would Do Differently If Elected – SDP Presidential Candidate

He expressed his condolences to the immediate and political families of the deceased leader, the people of Saki and all residents of Oyo State, praying to God to grant everyone the fortitude to bear the loss.

He said: “I received the news of the death of Baba Michael Koleoso, the Babalaje of Saki with shock and sadness.

“Oyo State and Nigeria have lost a great patriot and selfless leader, one of the last men standing in the batch of leaders who gave their all to make Nigeria a better place.
Also Read: Oyo Pilgrims Board Announces Date For Screening, Orientation Of Intending Hajj Pilgrims

“People who know me know that I had a special bond with Babalaje; I held him as a father and had the utmost regard for him, as he was a courageous and upright leader who spoke truth to power.

“We’ve relied on his guidance and wealth of experience in guiding our great state to greatness, and Babalaje did love this state till his dying days.

“I express my condolences to the Koleoso family of Saki, his political family spread across the state and Nigeria as well as the people of Saki and Oyo State.

President Tinubu and Xi Jinping are set to sign five Memorandums of Understanding today.

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03/09/2024

President Tinubu would Participate in strategic discussions with 10 chief executives from leading Chinese companies, whose combined assets under management exceed $3 trillion. These executives represent diverse industries, including information and communication technology, oil and gas, aluminum manufacturing, port development, financial services, and satellite technology innovation.

President Tinubu will receive the distinguished honor of a 21-gun salute and will review the honor guard at the Great Hall.

Following detailed briefings from several of his ministers and other important government officials, President Bola Tinubu is set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping today at various events, where they are expected to sign approximately five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs).

This will signify the official start of Tinubu’s visit to the People’s Republic of China, beginning with a trip to the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where he will be welcomed by Jinping.

The President Tinubu will arrive at the Great Hall of the People, where he will be greeted with a guard of honour. He will also pay tribute to fallen heroes by laying a wreath and will receive a ceremonial 21-gun salute.

The robust bilateral agreements between the two countries aim to concentrate on crucial sectors, such as the green economy, agricultural advancement, satellite technology innovation, development and promotion of media enterprises, blue economic growth, and collaborative national planning efforts.

The meeting will serve as an important opportunity for the two leaders to engage in discussions on various shared interests, including economic collaboration, security at national, regional, and international levels, and other pressing global issues.

Today, President Tinubu is anticipated to host a roundtable dinner with a select group of chief executive officers from Chinese companies at the China World Hotel in Beijing.

As the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu will participate alongside fellow African leaders at the FOCAC summit. On Thursday, he is set to deliver significant remarks representing the region, focusing on issues of shared importance between China and Africa.

On the same Thursday, the president is scheduled to present an eight-minute address focusing on peace and security. He will also engage in a high-level plenary session dedicated to these issues, where he will provide insights on Nigeria’s viewpoint regarding the security challenges faced both regionally and across the continent.

NNPC Ltd Faces Financial Strain Due to PMS Supply Costs, Impacting Supply Sustainability

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01/09/2024

NNPC Ltd Faces Financial Strain Due to PMS Supply Costs, Impacting Supply Sustainability

NNPC Ltd. has acknowledged recent reports in national newspapers regarding the company’s significant debt to petrol suppliers. This financial strain has placed considerable pressure on the Company and poses a threat to the sustainability of fuel supply.

In line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), NNPC Ltd. remains dedicated to its role as the supplier of last resort, ensuring national energy security. We are actively collaborating with relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to maintain a consistent supply of petroleum products nationwide.

Olufemi Soneye
Chief Corporate Communications Officer
NNPC Ltd.
Abuja

1st September, 2024

Rauf Aregbesola, Loyalists Remain in APC – Spokesperson

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01/09/2024

The online media is awash with a statement credited to Kamorudeen Adabanija stating that “Aregbesola, Loyalists Dump APC,” to mean that both the former Minister of Interior and his loyalists in the Omoluabi Progressives are no longer members of the APC and are moving to another party.

We (Omoluabi Progressives) wish to declare that the statement is not true.
Secondly, the said writer is not the spokesperson of the Omoluabi Progressives. He is not officially authorised to speak or make any declaration on behalf of the tendency.
Lastly, it is not the Omoluabi Progressives or Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola that wants to pull out the APC. It is the other camp that wants our reverred leader and members of our caucus out of the party and have have declared us personal non-grata, as well as stated that they do not want us in the party anymore with their actions and inactions.
Our position is clear on the political situation of Osun State and where the tendency is headed. Therefore, it is not correct to preempt the decision of the caucus.
Those sensationally jumping the gun with misrepresentation and falsehood are plain mischief makers and should be disregarded.
Omoluabi Progressives will always directly communicate its positions through its official channels and not through any third party.

We remain committed to promoting the Omoluabi ethos of Competence, Courage, Character, Integrity, and our core value of Discpline.

Thank you.

Abosede Oluwaseun
Publicity/Organizing Secretary
September 1st, 2024.

Late Oyo APC Chairman, Omodewu Remains To Arrive Nigeria On September 13

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01/09/2024

The body of the late Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Isaac Omodewu, will arrive in Nigeria from the United States of America on Thursday, September 13, 2024.

The Publicity Secretary of the party, Wale Sadare, confirmed this to The PUNCH on Sunday during a telephone interview with our correspondent in Ibadan, the state capital.

Omodewu, who travelled in November 2023, for a medical trip in the USA, died on Sunday, August 18, during the illness.

Sadare stated, “The body of our chairman will leave the USA on 11th September and arrive in Nigeria on Thursday, 13th September. A Christian wake will be held on Thursday in Ibadan, while the church service and burial will take place in his hometown, Otu, in the Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state, on Friday, 13th September.”

Omodewu served as a Commissioner in the administration of the late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

The late chairman was inaugurated alongside 34 other state chairmen by Governor Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee in February 2022.

He emerged from the state congress conducted in October 2021.

When asked whether his deputy, Olayide Abas, will be sworn in after the burial, the APC Publicity Secretary said,

“We have not acted on it. We will address the matter after the burial. We have put it on hold for now, as we want to pay our last respects to our chairman.”

Abas hails from Igboora, the headquarters of Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of the state.

You Are A Perfect Example of A True Progressives, Olaoluwa Felicitates Sen. Alli on Elevation

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01/09/2024

The President, Peter Olaoluwa Foundation (POF), Olaoluwa Peter Abidemi popularly known as OPA on Saturday felicitate the Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial district, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli on its elevation as the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, by the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

This is contained in a statement issued on his behalf by his media office and made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

Olaoluwa who is also a governorship hopeful on the platform of the All Progresseive Congress, APC said the elevation as again project the leadership qualities of the serving Senator.

He described Sen. Alli as a perfect example of a true Progressives who is doing all in his power to bring desired happiness to his people.

Olaoluwa added that the federal legislator has continue in his efforts to uphold the traditions and values of Ibadanland in all previous positions he found himself.

He commended Olubadan Traditional Council for their support and collective effort in ensuring unquantifiable support to the Olubadan since his ascension to the throne of his fore father’s.

He said the new status of Sen. Alli will further assist him, to continue in his effort of uplifting the downtrodden and make life more better for his people.

“Distinguished Senator, on behalf of my immediate family and my supporters across the state, I felicitates you, the people’s Senator and an outstanding politician of note, the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland on this auspicious occasion. Indeed, there is always a reward for consistency and loyalty, which is the hallmark of today’s event.

“I wish you well and pray for God’s continued guidance as you journeyed through life. Once again, congratulations.

UI Orders Students To Vacate Campus For Three-Week Break After

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31/08/2024

Following protests by students of University of Ibadan against the recent tuition fee increament, the management of the institution has announced a three-week break, starting today, Saturday, August 31.

This decision was outlined in a circular issued on Friday by the university’s management after a meeting with the Students’ Union leadership.

In the circular, signed by the Registrar of the University, G.O Saliu, the break is intended to give students enough time to pay their fees and complete online registration.

The first semester examinations, originally scheduled to begin on September 2, have now been postponed to September 23.

The circular also noted that the portal for fee payment and course registration will not be reopened after September 20, 2024.

Police Invite Ajaero, Ugboaja Over Criminal Conspiracy

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30/08/2024

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, and the General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja, have been summoned by the Nigeria Police Force to appear at the Force Headquarters on September 5, 2024.

This fresh summons comes less than 24 hours after Ajaero honoured a previous police invitation related to allegations of criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.

This time, the police are summoning both Ajaero and Ugboaja to respond to allegations of criminal intimidation, conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, and malicious damage to properties.

The invitation is reportedly issued by the Force Intelligence Department (FID) of the Nigeria Police Force.

This development signals an escalating tension between the NLC leadership and the Nigerian authorities, as the union has been at the forefront of challenging government policies and actions that it deems detrimental to Nigerian workers and the general public.

Former Oyo Majority Leader , Subair, Congratulates Alli on Elevation as Oba

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30/08/2024

Former majority leader of the Oyo state House of Assembly, Hon Kehinde Subair, has congratulated the new Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Senator) Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli on his elevation by the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

This is contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Friday afternoon in Ibadan.

Hon Subair described the elevation as timely and show appreciation to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin, for his wisdom and leadership in bestowing this honour.

He commended Oba (Sen.) Alli for his continuous efforts to uphold the traditions and values of Ibadanland in his capacity as a federal lawmaker and a politician of note and high standard.

Hon Subair commended Olubadan Traditional Council for their unwavering support and collective effort in ensuring unquantifiable support to the Olubadan since his ascension to the throne of his fore father’s.

Subair, who is also a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, acknowledged the pivotal role being played by Oba Sen. Alli since coming on board as the Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial Distri, t which has seen him uplifting the downtrodden in his senatorial district and given hope to the hopeless.

He added that the Senator now Oba has contributed massively to the preservation of the existing harmony and unity that the city of Ibadan is known known for, which has defined the city as the capital of the South-West.

“Let me on behalf of my immediate family and my supporters across my constituency felicitates the people’s leader and an outstanding politician of note, Oba (Dr) Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, the Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland on this auspicious occasion. Indeed, there is always a reward for consistency and loyalty, which is the hallmark of today’s event.

“I wish you well and pray for God’s continued guidance as you journeyed through life. Once again, congratulations, Your Royal Highness and Distinguished Senator.

Olubadan To Elevate Chiefs In The Balogun Chieftaincy Line

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29/08/2024

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I will tomorrow elevate/promote Chiefs in the Balogun Chieftaincy Line.

The affected Chiefs are:
HRM, Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola who will be promoted from Otun Balogun to Balogun of Ibadanland; HRM, Oba Kolawole Adegbola will be promoted from Asipa Balogun to Otun Balogun of Ibadanland; HRM, Oba John Olubunmi Isioye-Dada will be promoted from Ekerin Balogun to Osi Balogun of Ibadanland; HRM, Oba Dauda Abiodun Azeez will be promoted from Ekarun Balogun to Asipa Balogun of Ibadanland; Senior Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin will be promoted from Abese Balogun to Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland; while Senior Chief Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli will be promoted from Maye Balogun to the position of Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland.

The ceremony will hold at the newly built Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan by 11.00 am.

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29/08/2024