Saturday September 23, 2023

The Oyo state government has commenced the process to review its minimum health service package, that patients can access at primary health care facilities across the state.

Delivering her speech at the review meeting in Oyo town, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, said that minimum service package needs to be standardized.

She revealed that the primary objective of the review meeting is to meet the basic health needs of the entire people of the state.

Dr. Ajetunmobi hinted that the intiative is a priority set of interventions which should be provided in PHC centers on a daily basis at little or no cost.

She added that the government is on the verge of addressing human resource gap in the primary health care facilities.

The commissioner said further that Governor Seyi Makinde led administration has shown unflinching commitment to health sector since he came on board in 2019.

She noted that the commitment of the governor to health sector of the state was targeted at improving the health indices and level of health status of residents of the state .

According to her, “This meeting is designed to strengthen health service delivery in our state at the PHC level.

“The Minimum Health Service Package (MSP) according to the Federal Government policy is described as priority set of interventions which should be provided in PHC centers on a daily basis, at all times, and at little or no cost to clients through government? financing mechanisms”.

“MSP is basically deployed to meet the needs of the entire population in Oyo state where resources are limited by aggregating services together”.

“The MSP minimizes costs, both of the services as well as for patients to receive the services”.

“The present administration in the state is also making frantic effort to ensure that government health facilities are adequately equipped so that the people of Oyo state can enjoy appropriate and qualitative health care”.

Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji , reiterated the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde at ensuring the delivery of quality health care at primary health Care facilities in the state .

He said that the government has completed the renovation of 210 primary health care facilities out of the 351 facilities under the watch of the board .

He explained that Minimum Service Package (MSP) is a constitutional requirement that must be acknowledged by relevant stakeholders .

The meeting had in attendance, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusoji Adeyanju, the Executive Secretary, Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA), Dr. Olusola Akande, and Executive Secretary, Oyo State Agency for Control of Aids SACA, Dr. Lanre Abass.

Others are representatives of programme Implementing Partners, such as UNICEF, President Malaria Initiative, Breakthrough Action of Nigeria among others.

Saturday September 23, 2023

Prominent stalwart of the Oyo State chapter, People’s Democratic (PDP) in Oyo State, Mogaji Olawale Oladoja has stated that the leadership of labour unions in Nigeria are only after their selfish interest and not generality of their members.

Mogaji Oladoja stated this in an interview with Journalists in Ibadan on Friday morning.

The Ibadan family head compound was reacting to the strike threat by leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.

He queried the existing relationship between Joe Ajaero led NLC and Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party adding that Nigerian workers should no longer be taken for granted by the elite under the guise of fighting for workers right.

He cautioned NLC leadership to shelve the strike and cooperate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration in moving the nation forward and not play politics with the future of Nigeria.

Saturday September 23, 2023

Thousands of loyalists of former governor Ibikunle Amosun from the 20 local government areas of Ogun State, have rejoined the main stream of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

Receiving the returnees led by the factional Chairman of the Amosun led party Executive at the Presidential Lodge, Abeokuta, the State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun commended them for their loyalty and being steadfast with what they believed in.

The governor said: “I want to congratulate your sense of loyalty to leadership, which I will say is not only commendable,it is enviable.

“This is a culture that we must promote and entrench. It is a culture that is fast eroding; it is a culture that we are fast losing. Loyalty is 100 per cent.

“For some others, they move once things are not working well, but for you, you stay put. This sense of loyalty is worthy of emulation. We must appreciate the fact that there can only be one leader in a party at a time.

“Even when we have ambitions and desires, we must subordinate ourselves 100% to leadership and believe that it is in that subordination that will allow us to flourish and achieve our objectives, our dreams, our desires and aspirations, not by forming factions or by breaking away.

“Because by so doing, it only weakens the fabric of that collective union that we call our party. You must appreciate that there can be only one leader of the party at a time in the state, and that leader is the governor.

“As the leader of the party, I appreciate the task bestowed on me and it is my duty to work towards individual and collective welfare of our members,” the governor noted.

The governor urged all members to put the past behind them and work towards repositioning the party to achieve its aims and work for the socio-economic development of the state.

“Let us the past behind us. Let us promote what unites us as a family. I welcome you back. The future of Ogun State is in your hands and it is for us for the taking. The same joy the father of the prodigal son received his lost son back home, the same way I receive you today.

“To those who did not leave, please let us receive our brothers and sisters back. To those who are joining us, please let us display a sense of loyalty. I can assure you, you will be fully integrated. “

Chairman of the State All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Yemi Sanusi, said in every human relationship, there is bound to be disagreement, adding that even in time of war, there is always a place for peaceful settlement of conflict, calling the returnees to fully integrated themselves with other members of the party.

Leader of the returnees, Chief Derin Adebiyi, said they have all agree to return to the main stream to contribute to the development of the party and the State in general, thanking the governor the party members for receiving them back.

Monday September 18, 2023

Former Nigeria President, Olusegun Obasanjo on Sunday gave reasons for his recently much publicised actions with some traditional rulers in Oyo State on Thursday.

Obasanjo stated this at South Africa where he is attending the burial of politician Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who died on 9 September at 95

I arrived the event venue with the governor,” . “As we arrived, every other person at the venue rose, but they (the monarchs) remained seated.

I was surprised because I considered that a breach of protocol and disrespect for the governor.

“It later became the turn of the governor to speak. As he rose, every other person at the venue, including me, stood up as demanded by protocol and in respect for the governor and his office. Again, the Obas refused to rise. They all remained seated.

“I then asked people around whether that was the practice in Oyo State. I was told the Obas have always displayed disrespect for their governor. I wondered where they got that from and then decided to speak to them about it.

“As far as I am concerned, there is constitution and there is culture. By our constitution, the governor is the leader of a state.

Everyone must respect him no matter his or her status or age. He deserves respect no matter how young he is and protocols must be observed.

“That was why I spoke to them the way I did. I wanted them to realise that it is not part of Yoruba culture to disrespect authorities. Respect begets respect and they must learn to deal with their governor with respect if they want to be respected in return.

“I respect traditional rulers and even when I was President and till today, I treat them with reverence. I prostrate, bow and knee before them as necessary.
“I respect our culture. But let us also know that there is a Constitution which puts a chairman as head of a local government, a governor as head of a state and a president as head of our country. Whatever we do must be in respect for that arrangement. I am saying there is culture and there is constitution. One must not disturb the other.”

Sunday September 17, 2023

A Nigerian footballer plying her trade outside the country, Favour Kalu has disclosed that most female footballers and coaches in Nigeria are lesbian.

Kalu stated this in an interview with Journalists recently.

When asked the question, she said “Yes I agree totally with that. I’m not trying to be judgemental but will say it the way it is. The thing there is that some people are naturally spoilt in the sense that if they misbehave or do something bad they’ll either pin it on bad friends or condition.

A lot of people who are into lesbianism are always quick to blame it on the devil, bad friends or condition of life. But the truth is that somethings we do are the choices we’ve made already and sometimes it’s in us already but we’re just looking for something or someone to push us into it. And lesbianism is demonic that once you start it, you’ll never be able to come out of it. Like they say, some girls started it out of fear of getting pregnant while playing football, some started it in order to be able to take care of themselves and some are in it because they see it as fun because they prefer their fellow girls to guys.

She added that, female soccer is now in the era where women footballers are gradually making waves and a lot of people globally are recognising women footballers.

She said though so many people still think that women footballers are nothing but losers.

“They think women footballers are illiterate, like they have nothing to offer.”

Sunday September 17, 2023

A video has surfaced showing how the Akoko Northwest Ward 1 Chairman of the APC, Awolumate Olumide aka Cuba engaged in public fight with Adebunmi Osadahun, the Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, hitting her with chair on the head and inflicting wound on her.

Details of the fight is still sketchy but sources said it was not unconnected to the distribution of the federal government palliatives in Ondo state.

Sunday September 17, 2023

President Bola Tinubu has approved the nomination of Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim to serve as the Minister of Youth, pending her confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The President has further approved the nomination of Mr. Ayodele Olawande to serve as the Minister of State for Youth, pending his confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim is a young medical doctor and most recently served as the President of the Progressive Young Women Forum (PYWF). She has also served as the Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mr. Ayodele Olawande is a community development expert and youth leader in the governing All Progressives’ Congress (APC). He most recently served in the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Innovation from 2019 to 2023.

President Tinubu charges the above-mentioned nominees to ensure that they consistently reflect the dynamism, innovative zeal, and unyielding productivity that are synonymous with the young people of Nigeria as they discharge their duties.

Saturday September 16, 2023

Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde has called on some of aspirants to the Alaafin of Oyo stool to bring an end to their continue feud in order for him to crown new Alaafin.

Makinde stated that the exaulted Alaafin’s Stool is so critical to the Yoruba heritage and history and as such, it won’t go for highest bidder.

The governor made this known while delivering his address on Friday at the official commissioning of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Iseyin campus.

The governor appealed to all Aspirants to the Alaafin stool and royal houses to end the tussle in order for quick emergence of a new Alaafin.

Makinde, who spoke in Yoruba language expressed readiness to crown a new Alaafin as soon as there is harmony among the royal households.

Saturday September 15, 2023

36year old Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Adebo Ogundoyin on Saturday emerged the new Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.

Hon Adebo Ogundoyin who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP emerged at a national meeting of the Conference in Abuja following the withdrawal of the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Taiwo Oluomo from the race.

The appointment of Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin was thereafter confirmed through a unanimous voice vote by the speakers in attendance at the Conference.

This was consequent upon the expiration of the two year tenure of the leadership of the Speaker of Bauchi State House of Assembly, Hon Abubakar Suleiman.

The Constitution of the Conference stipulates a two year term of office for its elected leadership and this is rotated between the Northern and the Southern part of the country.

This time it is the turn of the Southern region to produce the Chairman of the Conference.

With this, the Oyo State Speaker has made history by becoming the youngest Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria since its establishment in 1999.

This is also the first time a member of an opposition party will emerge as the Chairman of the Conference.

In his acceptance speech, Oyo Speaker, Hon Adebo Ogundoyin expressed his willingness to selflessly serve the Conference.

” I therefore accept this honor with a great sense of gratitude, humility, responsibility and an overwhelming determination to selflessly serve this assemblage of highly revered Rt. Hon Speakers of Nigeria’s State legislatures.

” I would like to say that today marks another significant milestone in my life and indeed in my political journey because as the youngest amongst you, you have unhesitantly given me the mandate to steer the ship of the Conference not minding my young mind. I see this as one the highest honors bestowed on me and one of the greatest challenges and responsibilities placed before me in recent years.

” I am however poised for the task and ready to justify the confidence reposed in me by all our highly esteemed Speakers of State legislatures in Nigeria. I shall work and relate with everyone as we are all indispensable stakeholders in the assignment giving to the new Executivr council. ” Ogundoyin said

He appreciated the outgoing Executive Council of the Conference for projecting and actualising the objectives of the conference in the last two years.

Oyo Speaker assured that the new Executive Council would not only work assiduously to achieve the goals of the Conference but would also set more ambitious and realistic goals.

” We are ready to place the Conference on a higher pedestal by working to make it more relevant in the grand scheme of things in our dear nation. We shall equally ensure a more robust connection and network with other parliaments, parliamentary organizations and various notable institutions across the world.

” We will explore possible ways of ensuring a harmonized and uniformed House Standing Rules for all state legislatures in order to enhance our legislative institutions and processes as well strengthen our oversight functions. This will assist us in addressing emerging challenges, and aligning with international best legislative practices” Ogundoyin added.

Friday September 15, 2023

The newly installed Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, has said he is not interested in making money or name on the throne.

He said this while speaking during his coronation ceremony on Thursday.

The ceremony was attended by hundreds of residents of the ancient city.

In his inaugural speech, the Soun said his aim was to put Ogbomoso in its rightful place.

Olaoye was installed as the new Soun of Ogbomoso by kingmakers led by the Are Ago of Ogbomoso, High Chief Solalaje Otolorin, in the early hours of Friday 8th September 2023.

Olaoye urged the aggrieved people to unite with him for the development of the town.

He added that it was God that sent him to rebuild the city and to work for its progress.

He said, “Ogbomoso will be different. In terms of development, Ogbomoso will be different. In terms of peace, Ogbomoso will be different. I want you to know it is a new thing in Ogbomosoland. Imole tuntun lo de yi ( A new light has come). Ire tuntun lo de yi (A new goodness has come).

“Many knew what has been happening, what we have passed through but we will leave that behind us. Those who are aggrieved, let us unite for the development of Ogbomosoland. Let us unite so we can move Ogbomoso forward. Let us eschew violence, if we love this city we will rebuild this city together. It is God that sent me to rebuild this city, to work for the progress of this city.

“We have not come to the throne to make wealth God has given us wealth; we have not come to make a name, God has given us that. To put Ogbomoso in its rightful place is our goal. I assur you we will make Ogbomoso greater.

“What we have come to do in Ogbomoso has started today, the development of Ogbomoso has started today, new glory has started. Things will change. Good things such as industries will spring up, not one but many. God will give us many. I don’t talk much, it is action you will see, What did I say? That is what you will see in the name of the Lord.”

Thursday September 14, 2023

The Oyo State Government will soon commence the demolition of illegal properties and structures built on government land in Akanran, Ona-Ara Local government. 

This was as the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo warned encroachers to vacate Government Land with immediate effect.

The Ministry of lands helmsman hinted that it has been observed that a lot of people in the state have encroached on Government lands, and this is disturbing the masterplan of the state.

Mr. Akin Funmilayo stated that the Omituntun 2.0 agenda will not leave any stone unturned in making Oyo State a good place to live in.

He added that the government properties illegally built upon in Akanran is the proposed land for the State Games Village.

According to the Commissioner, the decision of demolition by the government brings an end to the long-awaited realization of the proposed game village project, which has been in the pipeline since 25 years ago.

Mr. Akin Funmilayo explained further that most occupants and developers claiming ownership of the land have fake documents, while adding that anyone who refuses to vacate the government land within the stipulated period will be forcefully evicted by law.

He called on residents of the state to visit the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development for any enquiry regarding land issues before purchasing any land.

In another development, the Oyo State Government has promised partnership with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) for the speedy completion of the Ibadan Inland Dry Port project.

The Commissioner for Trades, Investment, Industry and Cooperatives, Hon. Ademola Ojo, stated this while playing host to the management of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Southwest Zone led by Mr. Moses Fadipe in his Office, at the Secretariat, Ibadan.

The commissioner assured the council that the ministry will work assiduously to find solutions to anything that may hamper the project and give maximum support for the completion of the project.

He explained that when completed, the project will boost the State’s economy, adding that it is very important to the present administration.

He said, “State government is really interested in the completion of the project. We are assuring you of the support and cooperation of the Ministry and more importantly, personally eager to see the first cargo being lifted from the dry port”.

Tuesday September 12, 2023

The Oyo State Government, on Tuesday, warned residents to stop dumping refuse on medians, road sides, warning that any one caught in the act would be punished according to the extant of the law.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Mojeed Mogbonjubola, stated this during a visit and monitoring of the major roads.

He said in the government’s bid at ensuring an environmental friendly State, the Ministry has commenced the clearing and evacuation of bushes and dumps on major road Medians.

He declared that the present administration is poised at ensuring a clean environment across the State.

He however charged residents to collaborate with Government at achieving the noble feat, through environmental law compliance.

The Commissioner further warned residents, passersby, and maketers that henceforth, walkways, roadsides, highways would no longer be tolerated as trading zones.

He declared that occupants of such areas should vacate, so the infrastructures can serve its purposes.

He educated that the road medians which had been ignorantly misconstrued for dumpsite, are deliberately, and purposely constructed for the safety of pedestrians to cross roads, the allowance of smoother traffic flow, the reduction of risks of head-on collisions, the enhancement of aesthetics and pleasant view of the road and environment at large.

In another dimension, the Commissioner reemphasized the commitment of the present administration towards make all public schools’, conducive to learning.

According to the Commissioner, all shanties, illegal structures and shops attached to school buildings would be removed at the expiration of deadline issued to the owners.

Mr Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola emphasized, that Oyo State Government, would not hesitate to enforce sanction to every individuals, corporate bodies and groups committing environmental infractions, irrespective of how highly placed. Areas monitored by the Commissioner include: Mokola-Dugbe-Ring Road, and Mokola -Sango-U.I-Ojoo axis.

He clarified that the evacuation exercise would be carried out in all the zones in the State.

Tuesday September 12, 2023

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on Monday in Abu Dhabi, have finalized a historic agreement, which has resulted in the immediate cessation of the visa ban placed on Nigerian travelers.

Furthermore, by this historic agreement, both Etihad Airlines and Emirates Airlines are to immediately resume flight schedules into and out of Nigeria, without any further delay.

As negotiated between the two Heads of State, this immediate restoration of flight activity, through these two airlines and between the two countries, does not involve any immediate payment by the Nigerian government.

In recognition of President Tinubu’s economic development diplomacy drive and proposals today presented by President Tinubu to his counterpart, an agreed framework has been established, which will involve several billions of U.S. dollars worth of new investments into the Nigerian economy across multiple sectors, including defense, agriculture and others, by the investment arms of the Government of the United Arab Emirates.

Additionally, President Tinubu is pleased to have successfully negotiated a joint, new foreign exchange liquidity programme between the two Governments, which will be announced in detail in the coming weeks.

In conclusion, the President wishes to commend the UAE President, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for his unalloyed friendship and his determined effort to join hands with him to fully normalize and reset to excellence, the standard of relations between the two important countries.

Sunday September 10, 2023

The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission on Saturday released a timetable for the smooth conduct of 2024 Oyo State local government election.

Read Details

(a) Publication of notice of Election
(b) Release of Election Time Table
(c) Release of Election Guidelines

Tuesday 2 May, 2023 to Friday, 19th April, 2024
(a) Commencement of Political Activities
(b) Commencement and end of Campaigns by Political Parties

June 19th to July 24th, 2023
Conduct of Party Primaries by Political Parties and observation of Primaries by the Commission

Wed. 4th Sept. – Wed 31″ 2023
(a) Display of Voters register
(b) Collection of Personal Data Forms for candidates by Political Parties

Monday 18th Sept to Friday 29th Sept, 2023*
Submission of Personal Data Forms for candidates by Political Parties

Monday 2 to Friday 13th October, 2023
Verification/Screening of Chairmanship Candidates by OYSIEC

Monday 16th Oct. to 27 Oct, 2023
Verification/Screening of Councillorship Candidates by OYSIEC

Monday 6th Nov., 2023
Delivery of list qualified candidates to Political parties by OYSIEC

Monday 13th Nov., to 27th Nov. 2023
Appeals/Substitution of un-cleared candidates

Monday 4th Dec., to 8 Dec., 2023
Screening of of substituted candidates by OYSIEC

Monday, 8, Jan., 2024
Publication of names of qualified candidates by OYSIEC

Monday 15 Jan – Wed 31 Jan, 2024
Display of Voters’ Registers

Monday 15th Jan. – Friday 19th Jan., 2024.

Mon., 12th Feb., 2024
(a) Submission of names and addresses of Parties’ agents to the Commission
(b) Publication of Notice of Polls End of Electioneering Campaign (12 midnight)

Friday, 26th April, 2024
End of Electioneering Campaign (12 midnight)

Saturday, 27th April, 2024
ELECTION DAY (8:00AM – 3:00PM)

Saturday, 4th May, 2024
RUN OFF/RE-RUN ELECTION (IF ANY)

Sunday September 10, 2023

The Mogaji Olubadan, Lato Compound, Oke Labo, Ibadan, Professor Abiodun Gbolagade hass expressed sadness on demise of an Ibadan Senior Chief Lateef Oyelade.

In a statement issued through his media office in Ibadan on Saturday afternoon Gbolagade described the passing away of senior chief Oyelade as a great loss not only to Ibadanland but Oyo State.

Oyelade a prominent senior chief and Islamic leader in Ibadan died on Friday.

Gbolagade condoles with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Mohood Olalekan Balogun and members of Olubadan in Council adding that the news of the passing away of Senior Chief Lateef Oyelade was so shocking.

“ Late Oyelade was in his lifetime a custodian of Ibadan ethics, tradition and culture not minding his position as an Islamic leader and played active role at a every Ibadan affairs and meetings.

“His death is a great loss to Ibadanland, because he was an ardent supporter of every good cause of the land.

He was always offering useful advice; all of which to those close to him across the state and beyond.”

Gbolagade prayed God to grant the deceased Aljanah fridaous and keep all he has left behind.

Saturday September 9, 2023

President Bola Tinubu,on Saturday in New Delhi, India, expressed Nigeria’s commitment to play a major role within the G-20 and contribute to shaping a more equitable world.

Addressing world leaders at the 18th G-20 Leaders’ Summit, the Nigerian leader called for global unity and cooperation in tackling pressing challenges, fostering inclusiveness, and establishing a fairer world order.

While acknowledging the vital role of the G-20 in shaping a rules-based world order that promotes shared prosperity and security, President Tinubu emphasized that most of today’s pressing issues are “international in character and cannot be addressed without multilateral cooperation.”

“Therefore, stronger collaboration, cooperation, and partnerships among diverse regions are the pathways to a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for our world.

“This is why the role and contributions of the G-20 in shaping a new world order that is fair and rules-based can not be over-emphasized. A world that lives as one family, but is divided by staggering income inequalities and uneven access to basic social goods by the vast majority of our people cannot result in a peaceful and secure world where shared prosperity is achieved.

“I hasten to add that such rules and global governance structures of our collective dreams must be collectively designed, collectively owned, and collectively managed. This is consistent with the true spirit of One Family, mutual respect, and sustainable development.

“Nigeria is poised, able and willing to be a major player in this family of the G-20 and in shaping a new world, without whom, the family will remain incomplete,” he said.

The Nigerian leader congratulated India for hosting the historic summit and for successfully landing on the moon under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He described the achievement as an inspiration to all developing countries of the Global South.

On the issue of African Union (AU) inclusion in the G-20, the Nigerian leader welcomed the decision, saying it “opens opportunities for future membership of the group in a manner that reflects the relative balance of power and inclusiveness of humanity as One Family.

Reflecting on the theme of the Summit: ‘One Earth. One Family. One Future,’ President Tinubu stressed the interconnectedness of global affairs and the need for collaborative efforts.

He underscored the importance of tackling challenges related to technology, energy transition, and access to credit, as well as the growing socio-economic divide between those who have and those who do not.

The President urged greater solidarity among nations, tasking advanced economies to support disadvantaged regions in the Global South and to promote climate justice.

President Tinubu also called for the strengthening of international frameworks for resource mobilization and governance that are based on the principles of justice, equity, and fairness.

In addressing the sub-theme of Session II of the Summit, which is One Family, President Tinubu highlighted the magnitude of challenges facing humanity today.

“The need for us to work together as one family has, therefore, become more imperative. We must strive to create a world of inclusiveness in which everyone has access to the basic necessities of life, and in a manner that widens and strengthens the ownership of our planet regardless of one’s economic, social, and political status.”

President Tinubu urged the Global North, advanced economies, and multilateral institutions to mobilize resources and direct efforts to where help is needed most in the disadvantaged Global South.

“By doing so, we will be building a society anchored on the strong values of tolerance and mutual respect, where diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation take precedence over competition, conflict, and divisions, which are based on inflexible ideologies and belief systems,” the President concluded.

Friday September 8, 2023

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC- Oyo South) has described the death of Ibadan Senior Chief and Babasale Musulumi of Ibadanland, Alhaji Lateef Oyelade as great loss to Ibadan.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Friday.

Alhaji Lateef Adedoyin Oyelade died in the early hours of Friday, is a renown businessman and Ekefa-Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Alli, the Senate Committee Chairman on INEC, expressed heartfelt condolences to the late Oyelade’s family, praying that Almighty Allah strengthen and comfort them at this difficult time.

He sympathised with the family as well as friends of the late Oyelade, whose death he described as a great shock to the people of Ibadan and beyond.

“We join the people of Ibadan in mourning the loss of a remarkable leader, and we offer our sincere condolences to his family and the Muslim community of Ibadan,” he said.

Alli, who is also the Maye-Balogun of Ibadanland, said that the late Oyelade’s contributions to the development of Ibadan and philanthropy would be sorely missed.

The described the late Oyelade as a man who lived a life dedicated to serving his community and upholding his Islamic faith.

“I am aware of the profound impact that the late Alhaji Lateef Oyelade has had on the lives of many people, particularly the less privileged in the society,” he said

Alli expressed hope that the good work the late Oyelade started would be sustained and his legacy will continue to thrive.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Muslim community of Ibadan, who have lost a great leader and supporter.

“We pray that Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannat Firdaos.

“May the Almighty Allah also provide comfort and solace to his family as well as friends at this difficult time,” he said.

Friday September 8, 2023

… enjoins President Tinubu to enhance welfare of Nigerians, industrialize the country

Thursday September 7, 2023

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organization, Afenifere, has congratulated President Ahmed Bola Tinubu on his victory at the Presidential Electoral Court (PEPC).

A press statement signed by the organisation’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, quoted The Leader of Afenifere Worldwide, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, OFR, as expressing delight at the victory of President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima at the judgement given on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

It would be recalled that all the five judges who heard the petitions filed by three presidential candidates that participated in the election unanimously dismissed the petitions one after the other and declared that President Tinubu and his Vice, Shettima, were validly elected at the presidential election that took place in Nigeria on February 25, 2023.

Marked CA/PEPC/03/2023, CA/PEPC/05/2023 and CA/PEPC/04/2023, the consolidated petitions were lodged before the electoral court by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi; as well as the Allied Peoples Movement, APM, respectively.

Judges that heard the petitions were Hon. Justice Haruna Simon Tsammani, Hon. Justice Mistura Bolaji-Yusuf, Hon. Justice Stephen Adah, Hon. Justice Boloukuoromo Ugo and Hon. Justice Abba Mohammed.

In congratulating Tinubu and Shettima, Afenifere stated that the judgement which further validated the electoral victory of February 25th, should be seen not only as an indication of growing democracy in the country, but also a challenge on the present administration to actualize various promises contained in the Renewed Hope manifesto presented to Nigerians in 2022 and 2023.

“As I indicated in my congratulatory message when you, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was declared winner of this year’s presidential election, your victory raises a lot of hope and you can not afford to fail Nigerians. Incidentally, your manifesto on how to reset Nigeria resonates with my vision for having a Nigeria of which we all would be proud – as I mentioned to you on the two occasions you visited me last year in Akure. Going by the steps you have taken so far; I believe that you are setting the country on a sound footing for progress”.

Afenifere leader was quick to add that the pains occasioned by the withdrawal of fuel subsidy should be soothed as quickly as possible so that “Nigeria can begin to enjoy life more abundant and good welfare that they deserve”.

According to Ajayi, Pa Fasoranti commended all the parties involved in the petitions stating that their choice of going to court was part of the process of deepening democracy in Nigeria.

“For instance, the petitions gave the judiciary the opportunity to make far-reaching pronouncements on some important aspects of our electoral law and aspects of the Constitution that deals with election matters.

The pronouncements by the eminent judges shed more light and enlighten us more on how to go about our electoral processes” Ajayi stated.
He added that politicians should learn a lot of lessons from the verdict so that they would be better guided in their future electoral activities.
The release saluted Nigerians, the judiciary and all those involved in the judicial processes for the peaceful manner in which the matter was handled. It then charged all concerned to now brace up for proper governance “so that Nigerians would quickly put the present hardship behind them and begin to experience improved standard in their welfare while the country itself begins a fast-paced journey towards becoming a developed nation. Restructuring and proper federalization of the country should form important aspects of the rejigging to be effected”, the statement concluded.

Friday September 8, 2023

President Bola Tinubu, who is currently in India for the G-20 Summit, shared his conviction with Nigerians during an interaction with them on Thursday evening.
The President called on Nigerians to harness the country’s rich diversity as a uniquely powerful tool for advancing prosperity and national development for the benefit of all citizens, emphasizing that our diversity must be leveraged to drive economic growth, innovation, and social progress.

“We are here to present a new future to you. A future of a country that is so rich, endowed, and highly populated. Very dynamic, unique in its culture, tradition, and ethnicity. That is what will make our prosperity possible, if only we can make use of our diversity for prosperity,” he implored.

President Tinubu also told the meeting that he ran for the highest office in the country because of the fact that, despite the great human and natural resource wealth of the nation, the leadership and public sector management deficit in the country held Nigeria back from manifest destiny.

“We are not poor in knowledge. We are not poor in human resources. We are only poor in management and leadership, and that is why I ran for president, to help all of us mould the soul of our country in the right direction,” the President said.

Reflecting on the trajectory of his life, which prepared him for leadership, the President told the meeting that was attended by several Nigerian students studying in India, that with dedication, honesty, determination, and a change of mindset, they can reach for the top in their respective careers.

“Good education brought me here and I am happy to stand before you here as the President of Nigeria. I started small. I was a security guard. I was tutor in school. I was a brilliant student. I joined Deloitte and was trained by one of the biggest accounting firms in the world, because of my education,” the President recollected.

“When I joined them, I asked them, do you have branches in Nigeria and they said, ‘we have a lot of clients that will take you, if you want to go home.’ That’s how I got to Exxon Mobil and was a very successful accountant, auditor-general, and treasurer, until I joined politics with a can-do attitude.

“You can also do it; do not be despondent in any way. Nigeria is ready to accommodate all. It does not matter which part of Nigeria you are from,” the President exclaimed.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, while addressing the students, explained that President Tinubu’s foreign policy thrust included four Ds, with one of them being Diaspora, which focuses on improving the quality of services that Nigerians in the Diaspora receive at Nigerian Missions abroad.

“The issue of passport delays will be a thing of the past. You won’t have to wait indefinitely for your passports to be ready. Secondly, you are the first point of contact between Nigerians and other countries. We can’t grow beyond what our people project. That is why it is very important for you to project a consistently positive image of Nigeria online and off-line,” Nigeria’s Chief Diplomat said.

Earlier, Business magnate, Mr. Tony Elumelu, told pressmen that Nigeria was the best place to invest and that a bet on Nigerians is one of the best bets anyone can ever make, citing Nigerian success in all countries of the world.

“We believe in Africa, but especially in Nigeria. An investment in Nigeria promises a return that is scarcely found anywhere in the world and I do business across several continents,” the Africapitalist concluded.

Thursday September 7, 2023

Prominent Oyo state stalwart of the All Progressive Congress (APC) who also doubles as the Mogaji of Lato, Professor Gbolagade Abiodun has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his victory at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

According to a release issued by his media office in Ibadan, Gbolagade Abiodun said that the president’s victory is for all ”lovers of democracy in and outside the country as it signifies a light at the end of the tunnel for Nigeria’s democracy.”

He stated that with the victory, the president would be more encouraged to continue to work for the unity, progress and peace of the nation, without the distractions of the case.

He commended the tribunal members for “doing a good job and making the nation proud.”

The senator also commended Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Mr Peter Obi for “giving a good account of themselves and for their contributions to the nation’s democracy.”

Wednesday September 6, 2023

The Labour Party watched with dismay and trepidation the dismissal of petitions by the five-man panel of the Presidential Election Petition Court led by Justice Haruna Tsammani today and we reject the outcome of the judgment in its entirety because justice was not served and it did not reflect the law and the desire of the people.

Nigerians were witnesses to the electoral robbery that took place on February 25, 2023, which was globally condemned but the Tribunal in its wisdom refused to accept the obvious.

What is at stake is democracy and we will not relent until the people will prevail.

We salute the doggedness of our team of lawyers who fearlessly exposed the wrath in our system. We can only weep for democracy in Nigeria but we refuse to give up on Nigeria. Details of the party’s position will be presented after consultation with our lawyers after the Certified True Copy of the judgement is made available to us.

We urge all lovers of democracy to remain focused and hopeful because a new Nigeria is possible.

Wednesday September 6, 2023

The Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) has ruled that the Labour Party (LP)’s petition of irregularities in the 2023 presidential election was generic.

“Pleading must set out material facts and particulars. In the instant petition, there was no effort to prove specific allegations, particulars of complaints,” the Tribunal ruled on Wednesday in Abuja.

The law is clear that where someone alleges irregularities in a particular polling unit, such person must prove the particular irregularities in that polling unit before that petition can succeed, the Tribunal added.

According to the Tribunal, the petitioners did not prove the particular polling units where the election did not take place nor did they specify particulars of polling units where there are alleged complainants of irregularities.

“It was only in one instance that figures were given of alleged suppressed votes and we all know that elections are about figures,” it maintained.

LP had alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reduced their scores and added it to All Progressives Congress (APC)’s votes.

But the court said LP failed to supply particulars of what they actually scored before the said reductions, neither did they supply the polling units where it happened.

.Says Olodo Road, Bridge’ll be fixed, appeals for calm

Wednesday September 6, 2023

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, said on Monday that the government would move to fix about 100 kilometres of internal roads in Ibadan, the state capital and that once it is able to succeed with that, the effort would be replicated across the state.

He also expressed the readiness of his administration to kick-start the process for the employment of primary school teachers to fill the gap left by the secondment of teachers to secondary schools and retirements.

This was as the governor called on residents of Olodo Area of Ibadan to be patient with the government, promising that the collapsed Olodo Bridge would be fixed, but that all the proper things needed to be done so as to have a lasting solution.

Governor Makinde gave these indications while responding to contributions from stakeholders at the Stakeholders’ Consultative Meeting on the 2024 Budget, held at the Gamaliel Onosode Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

Earlier, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musibau Babatunde, had noted that the state government introduced the stakeholders’ engagement with a view to developing budgets that meet the yearning of the people, adding that the initiative had been helpful in producing a bottom-up approach to development in the state.

He equally stated that the inputs of the people of the state captured in the 2023 Budget were being implemented, and that the performance of the 2023 Budget had reached 75 per cent.

Describing the stakeholders’ meeting as very important, Governor Makinde called on residents of the state across the seven zones to come out and tell government representatives the developments they want in their areas.

He said: “I would love to thank everyone here for giving out your time and bringing up issues, whether they are palatable or not. I am already committed to this feedback mechanism and we will make the time and give you that assurance.”

Addressing a contribution on education infrastructure, the governor said the administration did an audit and found that it would require close to N46 billion to fix the infrastructure gap in the schools.

He noted that though his government had spent about N10 billion on building school infrastructure in the last four years, it is obvious that the challenges in the sector needed more efforts and that the government would do more, even in the face of limited resources.

“Since this is a stakeholders’ engagement for the 2024 budget, let me say this; for four years that I have been here, we have been paying the SUBEB/UBEC counterpart fund. But all the projects done under SUBEB/UBEC are around N2.5bn per year. So, quite frankly, within these last four years, maybe we have spent N10 billion on SUBEB.

“We carried out an exercise and found out that we require close to N46 billion to fix our schools. On the repair of the leaking roofs, chairs, and other things, we are looking at solutions but one thing that I will ask the Commissioner for Education to push for in the 2024 budget is extra money over and above what we can get from the SUBEB/UBEC effort. To bridge this gap, we need to spend at least N12bn every year, and let us see how far we can go so that we can start fixing those schools.”

Governor Makinde, who declared that his government’s renovation of the Primary Health Centres had been successful and that it remained the best in the country, said the government would have completed the renovation of all 351 PHCs by 2024 and that it would also see to the staffing and equipment of the centres.

“On primary health care centres, yes, we had an issue with the implementation of the project because we didn’t achieve what we set out to achieve. It is a difficult venture really. There is no state in Nigeria that has succeeded in tackling this. Actually, the best that anyone has ever achieved in this country is what we have achieved in Oyo State on the issue of PHCs. But, to us, the best outcome is what we will accept.

“So, we will take another stab at it because we have the money. We have been to PHCs about four times and most of the bottlenecks we have will be addressed.
“I think a fully functional, developed category 3 health care centre will happen. Before this exercise next year, by the grace of God, we should have been done with the 351 category 3 PHCs in Oyo State. Equipping and staffing them also will be sorted out. We know it is a big challenge. Though we have done a few things we have not achieved what we planned to achieve. So, it has been noted and I will also advise the Commissioner for Budget to pay special attention to it to ensure much more is added to the budget,” he said.

The governor equally promised to give further attention to youth development, saying the government will continue to remain loyal and committed to its youths.

He said: “From the youth representative, you spoke about employment and skill acquisition. Of course, we did that under Omituntun 1.0 when we sent some of our youths to Nasarawa State to learn modern agri-business techniques.
“Some of them are excelling while some need support to break out and under the SAfER package, we already have N1 billion; N500 million for agripreneurs and N500 million for small scale businesses.

“In the 2024 budget, you will have at least N1bn. It should be something that we will keep moving but you need to encourage yourselves to get organised. The only way you can get benefits from what the government is trying to put on the table is to be prepared to work very hard as there is nothing that is free to get.”

Responding to a contribution from the Civil Coalition for Good Governance about the environment and sanitation, the governor said the sanitation laws will be enforced going forward.

He, however, declared that it is better for residents of the state to do things properly so that the government will not need to spend money that can be put to other use on enforcement of sanitation laws.

“I want to let you know that enforcement also costs money. If I want to arrest those disposing of refuse on the medians of our road, the government needs to fund the process because we will have to pay those who will arrest offenders. So, if our people will do things properly, we will spend less money on enforcement.

“I must also say that I have made up my mind on this. Before this month runs out, all the people at the entry points into this state should be warned not to break the rule on sanitation law. All of that will go and we will put in the resources for the implementation.”

Other issues addressed by the governor included the funding of the agency for people living with disability, infrastructure and other sectors, with the governor insisting that the administration would leave no stone unturned in its bid to make life better for residents of the state.

Tuesday September 5, 2023

Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, has expressed dissatisfaction over the N85bn contract meant for the provision of infrastructure for the Wasa Affordable Housing project in Wasa District, Abuja. Said project poorly negotiated.

The acting Coordinator, Satellite Town Development Department, Mr. Olusegun Olusan, explained that the contract for the provision of the infrastructure was awarded in 2014, at the tune of N26bn but was revised to N85bn in 2018.

Olusan told the minister that so far, a total of N21bn had been paid to the contractor with a balance of N64bn left, adding that the percentage of work done so far is 21.4 per cent.

On the housing scheme, the coordinator explained that the government’s role was to provide the land and infrastructure, while private developers would build houses and sell to the masses at affordable rates.

He added that at the conception of the project, a two-bedroom flat was to be sold to the masses at N7m.

Wike was not impressed with the arrangement made by the FCT, stressing that the government should not spend N85bn to provide infrastructure and land, and benefit nothing.

“We are not impressed with the arrangement made by the FCT. The government cannot just cough out N85bn to provide infrastructure and then give the land out to private developers who will build and sell.

“This kind of arrangement is not commendable at all, at all. We think that the government must also participate, having provided the land and infrastructure.

“If we are partnering with private individuals or developers, the common sense is that you provide the land, provide infrastructure and they come and develop.

“Then government, for example, can take 10 per cent, then the developers can take 90 per cent, depending on the value,” he said.

Tuesday September 5, 2023

Governor Dapo Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday urged the Ogun State Election Petition Tribunal to dismiss the petition filed by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ladi Adebutu and his party against the election of Abiodun during the March 18, 2023 governorship election in the state.

This is even as the tribunal reserved judgment in the petition as counsels to all the parties submitted their final written addresses.

The Chairman of the three-man tribunal, Justice Hamidu Kunaza, told the counsels that the final day of the judgment would be communicated to all the parties.

Adebutu had approached the tribunal to challenge the declaration of Prince Abiodun as the winner of the governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying that the election was marred with corrupt practices and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

In their separate submissions however, counsels to the 1st respondent (INEC), Mr Remi Olatubora (SAN), 2nd (Dapo Abiodun), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), and the 3rd (APC), Mr Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), told the tribunal that the petitioners failed to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Counsel to INEC, Olatubora, prayed the tribunal to dismiss the petition for being absolutely unmerited and a waste of the tribunal’s precious time.

He said that allegations of corrupt practices, non-compliance, multiple thumb printing of ballot papers, ballot stuffing, and forgery as alleged by the petitioners were not proved beyond any reasonable doubt

He described the testimony of the witnesses brought by the petitioners as heresy, which is not admissible in law.

Counsel to Prince Dapo Abiodun, Chief Wole Olanipekun, (SAN) in his final address, described Adebutu’s petition as a mere academic exercise.

He noted that the soul of the petition was not duly signed and stamped and, therefore, lacked merit to be adopted and should be struck out.

“The document is not signed, not dated, no heading, no title, no identity, no signature, no stamp. The CTC has no signature,” he said.

However, in his counter-argument, Counsel to Adebutu, Chris Uche, SAN, told the tribunal that all documents presented by the petitioners were obtained from INEC.

He urged the tribunal to declare Adebutu the winner of the governorship election or, in the alternative, order a rerun of the election in 99 polling units where he alleged that there were disruptions.

Counsel to APC, Tayo Oyetubo, who spoke to journalists shortly after the adjournment, said the respondents have presented a good case, even as he expressed confidence that the judgement would be in their favour.

He said: “All parties have addressed the court on the case before the court, and the matter has been adjourned for judgment. The case that was brought to the tribunal was attacked on different grounds in terms of competence, in terms of substance, and in terms of the quality of the witnesses that were brought, all of those issues have been adequately canvassed before the court and in a nutshell, the respondents are confident that they’ve done a good job and winning the case.”

It would be recalled that APC and Prince Abiodun had described Adebutu and PDP’s petition as a wild goose chase.

Abiodun and APC, in their final written submission earlier reported, argued that the petitioners did an awful job and failed to prove their case.

This, they said, was because Adebutu and PDP presented tutored and unreliable witnesses, relied on documents that contradicted their witnesses’ case, and presented experts whose testimonies and documents lacked probative value.

They argued that Adebutu and PDP, who are accused of vote buying with credible evidence, have unclean hands and could not receive equity with those unclean hands.