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World Day Against Trafficking: Rep Akande-Sadipe seeks partnership with Governors’ wives

By
Peter Ayoade
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Federal House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora Affairs, has said effective partnership of all tiers of governments, especially wives of State Governors and other relevant stakeholders will enhance Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking in the country.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. (Mrs) Tolulope Akande-Sadipe K, made this known today in an interview with newsmen, as part of activities marking the 2020 World Day Against Trafficking Persons.

Akande Sadipe, expressed worry over the high-level of trafficking, inviting, Wives of Governors in the country to rise against this and other vices against females.

“This is another form of violence against women”, she said. “The best way to eradicate this evil among us is to work in unity. Wives of Governors should use their offices to advocate against this act”.

“The traficking agents and their collaborators are not more powerful than those who mean well for the people of this Nation”.

Hon. Akande-Sadipe revealed that her recent meeting with the Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, which yielded positive enthusiasm by the Governor’s wife shows that there could be fruitful collaborations with wives of Governors to bring this embarrassing scourge to an end.

“This action will ensure that we build awareness in our various states. We need to educate parents and our girls on the risk of foreign domestic servitude and the lies of agents who end up trafficking them into dangerous situations”.

“We would ensure that the collaboration focuses on rehabilitation, engaging effective sensitisation, workshops and seminars across communities, schools, churches, mosques markets, and other public places”, to the remotest parts of our nation, she added.

Mrs. Sadipe also thanked the Nigerian Ambassador to Lebanon, Ambassador Goni Modu Zanna Bura, who recently came to the aid of thirty Nigerian girls in Lebanon, who were forcefully ejected by their landlord.

“I spoke to the Nigerian Ambassador in Lebanon yesterday and his response was inspiring as he had put in place some emergency palliatives for the girls in Lebanon”, she said.

“We also want to encourage Fed. Min of Women Affairs, Ministries of Women Affairs in each State, Local government authorities, relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to partner with us, so that this trafficking menace would be a thing of the past”, she said.

Hon. Akande-Sadipe reiterated her commitment to ensuring legislation to discourage Human Traficking. She is working auspiciously with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

World Day against Trafficking in Persons is held annually on July 30. People trafficking and modern day slavery is recognized by the UN as a massive worldwide problem with very few countries immune to human trafficking.

Reports revealed about eighty thousand Nigerians are currently held as sex slaves and in forced labour across the world, in countries like Lebanon, Mali and the Middle East.

Sallah: Adegoke, Ajia Balogun Olubadan felicitates Muslims, urges citizens to have faith in better Nigeria

By
Peter Ayoade
-

As Muslims all over the world celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, the Ajia Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke has urged Muslims and Nigerians as a whole to have faith in God and hope for better country.

He said this festive afford Muslims to reflect on the faith with which Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) willingly agreed to sacrifice his son, in obedience to the command of the Almighty Allah, which should reflect in dealings with each other either individually or in governance.

Ajia Balogun Olubadan while felicitating with the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, Ibadan High Chiefs and people of Oyo state for witnessing this year Eid-el-kabir, he prayed that they would witness more of it in good health.

He made this known in Ibadan while speaking with Journalists on the need to imbibe the spirit of Prophet Ibrahim, which borders on faith and obedience to Almighty God, the authority, which should be a guide in daily activities of human endeavours, and hoping for better Nigeria by doing these.

According to him, “Muslims should be ready to ensure that the society feels the impact of the knowledge and teaching of Prophet Ibrahim in their character and relationship with others, particularly non-Muslims.”

While congratulating the Olubadan, all Muslims in Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as whole for witnessing another Eid-el-kabir, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Adegboyega Adegoke Resource Centre (AARC) prayed for Allah’s protection on all during and after the celebration.

Adegoke who is also the Executive Director, OES Energy Services Limited,
enjoined all Muslims not to allow the lessons and significance of the Sallah to end with it, urging them to continue in the pursuance of peace for national development.

“I want to urge Muslims and non-Mualims nationwide, I want to urge them to desist from any act of disobedience to the teachings of Islam and the law of the land.

“As we combating the menace of Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, I want us all irrespective of the religion, position or tribe to obey the law of the land, and follow all the preventive and precautionary measures put in place to curtail the spread.

“And I want to task our leaders to have greater concern for the poor if they can recognise the spiritual core of man and give no room for senseless materialism, greed and primitive accumulation of wealth.

“If spiritual core of man is recognised, it could lead to a better perspective about life: there would be no room for senseless materialism, greed and primitive accumulation of wealth. Rather, there would be greater concern for the poor and betterment of the entity, call Nigeria”. Adegoke noted.

Aare Musulumi tasks Ummah on Covid-19 safety protocols at Sallah

By
Peter Ayoade
-

As Islamic faithfuls all over the world mark this year’s Eid-Al Adha Celebrations, an advise has gone to all Muslims to ensure strict adherence to the COVID-19 Safety protocols religiously as they observe their Eid prayers all over the country.

This advice was contained in a Sallah message by the Aare Musulumi Of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alh Dawud Makanjuola Akinola to Ummah towards this year’s Eid Kabir celebration.

Alhaji Akinola in the message signed by his media aide, Mr Akin Abolade noted that though Eid-al Adha Celebration is always characterised by mass movement and friendly felicitation, the novel Pandemic as made it mandatory that Muslims should join in curbing the further spread and protection of lives by adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols as they pray to Almighty Allah during the Eid.

The religious leader further counsel faithfuls to,as much as possible, avoid crowded places but in situations where avoidance is not visible, they are advised to wear face mask, observe social distancing and be safety conscious.He further expressed optimism that with cooperation of all citizens, the joint efforts against COVID-19 would yield good fruits adding that Almighty Allah (SWT) who knows the beginning of all things, would surely end this Pandemic very soon.

Alh Akinola charged the Ummah,as they consciously and cautiously celebrate, not to forget the various lessons of Eid-al Adha, an Islamic festival to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his only son, Ismail in fulfilment of his earlier promise towards Allah’s gift to him and Allah, realising Prophet Ibrahim loyalty and enormous sacrifice, gave him a ram to sacrifice as a replacement for his son Ismail, this teaches us to always keep to our promises, have great faith in Almighty Allah and adhere to His commandments.

This year’s festival is very significant as it’s being celebrated worldwide with restricted pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia as a result of the rampaging effect of Corona virus pandemic.

Despite the limited celebration, Aare Akinola reminded Muslims not to forget the charitable act embedded in the festival as an act of Ibadah. He reiterated the open show of love as one of the unique nature of the season.

The religious leader however urged Muslim Ummah to pray for the quick end of the pandemic and beseech Almighty Allah for peace,  progress and development of the country.

Sallah: Shina Peller gives rams, cows, rice, cash to constituents

By
Peter Ayoade
-

 

In celebration of the 2020 Eid al-Adha (Ileya festival), and in his usual way of reaching out to his constituents during the period, a member of the House of Representatives from Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa federal constituency, Hon. Shina Peller, has distributed rams, cows, bags of rice and cash to Muslims across the four local governments of the constituency.

According to the information gathered, more than one hundred and fifty families from each of the four local governments of the constituency, namely Iseyin, Itesiwaju, Kajola and Iwajowa, benefited from this humanitarian gesture of Hon. Peller.

Some of the beneficiaries of this benevolent act expressed their heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Shina Peller, and described him as a Messiah who always comes to their aid anytime the need arises, especially at a trying period of this COVID-19 pandemic which has hit hard on the global economy.

In addition, some of the beneficiaries, who have made it a practise to sacrifice rams, as ordained by Allah (God), during each Eid-al-Adha celebration, explained that they had almost given up doing same this year, but that Hon. Peller showed up and changed the story for better.

When approached and asked what was the reason behind the ram, cow, rice and cash gift, Hon. Peller explained that giving such to fellow Muslim brothers and sisters during salah celebration has always been his usual act, even long before he ventured into politics. However, he added that a larger number of people, especially from his constituency, benefited this year compared to previous years, and stressed further that it is to cushion the negative effect of the COVID-19 on his constituents.

Meanwhile, Hon. Peller seized the opportunity to remind all that the fight against the deadly Coronavirus is far from being over yet, and urged that everyone maintains social distancing, adheres strictly to all the precautionary measures guidelines as laid down by the governments and health organizations.

Sallah: NUJ applauds Makinde, Folarin, Balogun, others for support

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council has felicitated with Muslims across the state as they celebrate Eid-el Kabir.

This is contained in a Sallah message signed by its Chairman, Ademola Babalola and Secretary, Sola Oladapo.

The union in a message made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Thursday, admonished journalists to celebrate with moderation, praying Allah bless their daily activities.

The union applauded the support from good-spirited Nigerians and corporate organisations to members since the outbreak of the pandemic and during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Among the supporters are Gov. Seyi Makinde, his deputy, Alhaji Rauf Olaniyan, Sen. Teslim Folarin (APC-Oyo Central), Sen. Kola Balogun(PDP-Oyo South) and Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari(APC-Oyo North).

Also on the list are Alhaji Sharafadeen Alli, a former Secretary to the State Government, Rep. Musiliudeen Akinremi, Rep. Shina Peller and Rep. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe.

Others are Chief Adegboyega Adegoke, Engr Joseph Tegbe, Asiwaju Rotimi Ajanaku to mention a few, for extending supports and standing firmly behind journalists since the inception of Babalola’s administration seven months ago.

It described the pandemic era as a challenging times for the media which saw many lose their jobs, some on half salaries and others on forced compulsory leave.

The union urged members not to lose hope, saying “tough times never last but tough people do.”

It rejoiced with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, former Gov. Rashidi Ladoja, Alhaji Dauda Makanjuola Akinola, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland and hosts of others on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The NUJ urged Islamic faithful to use the opportunity of Eid prayers to pray fervently for the world to overcome the pandemic and recovery of the sick across the universe.

Sallah: NUJ applauds Makinde, Folarin, Balogun, others for support

By
Peter Ayoade
-

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council has felicitated Muslims across the state as they celebrate Eid-el Kabir.

This is contained in a Sallah message signed by its Chairman, Ademola Babalola and Secretary, Sola Oladapo.

The union in a message made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Thursday, admonished journalists to celebrate with moderation, praying Allah bless their daily activities.

The union applauded the support from good-spirited Nigerians and corporate organisations to members since the outbreak of the pandemic and during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Among the supporters are Gov. Seyi Makinde, his deputy, Alhaji Rauf Olaniyan, Sen. Teslim Folarin (APC-Oyo Central), Sen. Kola Balogun(PDP-Oyo South) and Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari(APC-Oyo North).

Also on the list are Chief Adeniyi Akintola, Alhaji Sharafadeen Alli, a former Secretary to the State Government, Rep. Musiliudeen Akinremi, Rep. Shina Peller and Rep. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe.

Others are Chief Adegboyega Adegoke, Engr Joseph Tegbe, Asiwaju Rotimi Ajanaku to mention a few, for extending supports and standing firmly behind journalists since the inception of Babalola’s administration seven months ago.

It described the pandemic era as a challenging times for the media which saw many lose their jobs, some on half salaries and others on forced compulsory leave.

The union urged members not to lose hope, saying “tough times never last but tough people do.”

It rejoiced with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, former Gov. Rashidi Ladoja, Alhaji Dauda Makanjuola Akinola, Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland and hosts of others on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The NUJ urged Islamic faithful to use the opportunity of Eid prayers to pray fervently for the world to overcome the pandemic and recovery of the sick across the universe.

Sallah: Religious leaders, Community elders, politicians laud Tegbe for benevolence

By
Peter Ayoade
-

Sallah: Religious leaders, Community elders, politicians laud Tegbe for benevolence

 

Accolades have continued to pour in for a prominent son of Oyo state, Engr Olasunkanmi Tegbe, for his continuous benevolence towards people across socio-economic, religious and political divides.

These commendations trailed the recent distribution of Sallah rams and food item to religious leaders and community stakeholders across the 33 local Government in Oyo state, in preparation of the Sallah festival. Many of the recipients have taken to the social media to appreciate the gesture of the Ibadan-born policy expert.

Tegbe was poised to win the 2018 primaries of the All Progressive Congress before being prevailed upon by party leaders to step down for Adebayo Adelabu, who eventually lost to the current Governor. Nevertheless, Tegbe has been undeterred in his benevolent gestures to people across political affiliation, religion and ethnic divides. He continues to be a reference point for positive impact in the pacesetter state.

Engr. Tegbe believes all means should explored to put a smile on the populace face and better their lives. Improving the lives and livelihoods of people has been his focus. He has proven that this goal that can be achieved at any time, whether one occupies a political position or not. Reputed as a friend of the masses, he has shown that politics is just a tool, serving people and putting smile on the faces of the people is the goal.

Makinde Signs Revised 2020 Budget, Gives Reasons for Taking Loans

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola 

*OYSG to adopt Alternative Project Funding Approach

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, explained that his administration’s determination to fix the huge infrastructure deficit in the state and get the state on the right track for economic growth was behind the move to secure loans that target key infrastructure.

He added that the problem with loans is not in taking them, but in the way they are utilised, noting that with the extant economic reality in the state, it would be difficult for the state to get out of its infrastructure crisis and be well-placed to attract investments, without taking loans targeted at developing key infrastructure.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor stated these during the signing of the reviewed 2020 Budget from N213 Billion to N174 Billion into law.

The governor explained that in the revised 2020 budget, N65.2 Billion has been earmarked for capital projects while N108.9 Billion is for recurrent expenditure, stating that the state plans to pay a huge chunk of its recurrent expenditure through allocations from the federation account and the state’s internally generated revenue.

The governor appreciated members of the Oyo State House of Assembly for reviewing the revised budget proposal in a timely manner and for approving the downward review, saying “it is heartening that the three arms of government have continued to work harmoniously for the good of the people of Oyo State.”

The budget signing ceremony, which took place at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, was witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, other top government functionaries and some lawmakers.

Speaking shortly after signing the reviewed budget, Governor Makinde maintained that the reason for the  review was due to economic meltdown, crash in oil prices and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the economy of the state.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensure an optimum performance of the budget, noting that the state will ensure that the 2020 revised budget is adequately funded by aiming at 70 per cent  performance.

He said: “The reason for this latest revision is apparent to all. The economic meltdown we are experiencing, occasioned by the crash in oil prices, coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic, has greatly affected our state’s ability to stick with the original budget.

“So, after the review, which we submitted to the Oyo State House of Assembly, it was agreed that we should effect an 18.3 per cent downward review of the budget, from N213 Billion to N174 Billion.

“It is this revised budget that I am signing today. As I sign this revised budget, it is a good time to reflect on one issue that has plagued our budget implementation over the years – the issue of poor budget performance.

“We make robust presentations of plans that mostly end on paper, because the funds are not available to implement them.

“When you have an annual budget performance of about 30 per cent, you will understand why we keep having stagnation in economic growth. Or how else will you explain an IGR average of about N1.8 billion in the past four years?”

Governor Makinde maintained that the reason Oyo State continued to be referred to as a civil service state is because it failed, over the years, to take the needed action to boost its economy, stating that his administration is ready to make daring and ambitious efforts to reposition the state economically.

“So, we have taken some steps to ensure that the 2020 revised budget is adequately funded. As I said at the signing of the initial budget, we are aiming for a minimum of 70 per cent performance,” Governor Makinde said, adding that the steps taken by the government is to ensure that loans taken are used to fund priority capital projects.

He said: “One of the steps we have taken is to ensure that loans taken are used to fund priority capital projects.

“Another thing we are doing is using an Alternative Project Funding Approach to carry out key priority projects. This will be used for the twenty-one-kilometres Airport – Ajia – New Ife Express Road with a spur to Amuloko in Ibadan and few other projects.

“What the alternative approach entails is that the contractor will fund the project and the Oyo State Government will pay for the project over thirty months. “I have seen some comments about the cost of the Airport Road. There is no basis for the comparison between the Airport Road and the Moniya-Iseyin road. Unlike the Moniya-Iseyin road, the Airport road will contain hydraulic structures.”

The governor also used the occasion to clear the air on the planned Oyo State Prosperity Bond, noting that though the government is aware that floating the bond is an ambitious move, it is a bold step that has to be taken for the development of the state.

“Let me use this opportunity to talk about the N100 Billion bond, also known as the Oyo Prosperity Bond, which was recently proposed and approved by the Oyo State Executive Council. There is no arguing that floating this bond is an ambitious move. But I want to believe that we were voted into office to take bold steps in developing our economy.

“The facts before us are clear. Our state has huge infrastructural deficits. If those deficits are not addressed, it means we will be maintaining the status quo. Any person with sound financial knowledge will tell you that the only way to get out of this cycle of poverty is through massive investment in infrastructure.

“As I have always said, the problem with loans is not in taking them, but in the way loans are utilised. Oyo State cannot get out of its infrastructural deficit without taking loans targeted at developing key infrastructure. “For example, we are targeting economically strategic roads such as the fifty-kilometres Iseyin-Ogbomoso road and the Ibadan Circular Road. We are also giving attention to the health sector by either constructing or upgrading one public hospital in each of the three senatorial districts of the state. In the transport sector, we are focused on building the Ibadan Dry Port and rail corridor and upgrading the Ibadan Airport.

“Oyo State cannot attract investments into our economy without showing that we are worthy of these investments. Investors will go to Lagos and even our neighbouring Ogun State if we continue running our economy with the same level of unseriousness that the state has come to be known for.

“Tell me, what excuse do we have for not making it into the list of top ten economies in Nigeria? How can we, despite being in these dire conditions, not recognize the urgency of growing our economy?

“I took an oath to lift Oyo State from poverty to prosperity using our Roadmap to Accelerated Development of Oyo State 2019-2023. I am determined to keep my word. Every step we have taken as an administration since our being sworn in on May 29, 2019, till date is geared towards ensuring that every promise made will translate to promises kept. I pledge to continue carrying you along as we make the best decisions for the overall good of the people of Oyo State.”

Oyo State Govt N100 Billion Bond: An Effort in Illegality | Opatola Victor

By
Peter Ayoade
-

Recently, the Oyo State Governement raised a Bond of 100 Billion Naira for the funding of the following projects: 1. Iseyin – Ogbomoso Road 2. Ibadan Airport Upgrade 3. Ibadan Dry Port and Ibadan Rail corridor 4. Ibadan Ring road.

It is of no doubt that the aim behind these projects are lofty and good intentioned; but the biting Legal question is that: Can Oyo State Governement raise a Bond for a Project not contained in the Budget or properly appropriated for under the Law?

Having perused through the Oyo State 2020 Appropriation Law and Looking at the relevant provisons of the Constitution, the decision to raise Bond to spend on the projects are Illegal.

Public money should be spent only according to the provisions and stipulation of the Law. The budget of every state is a Law on its own, passed by the Legislature. This ensures that legal control and public accountability are properly enforced.

When State Government raises bonds, or borrows funds, it is public money because it is the people that will still pay for it.

Section 120 to 129 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria provides for Powers and Control over public fund. This is found under Part II (House of Assembly of a State) of Chapter V (The Legislature) of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended).

Going by the above provisons, a State government cannot spend any money outside of the budget of the State. Any project not included in the State Appropriation Law cannot be funded by the State except through the stipulated procedure of the Law e.g through section 122(where the budget is not yet passed), 123 (contingency fund) or through supplementary Appropriation Law.

Section 120 of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution

Establishment of Consolidated Revenue Fund

(1) All revenues or other money raised or received by a State (not being revenues or other moneys payable under this Constitution or any Law of a House of Assembly into any other public fund of the State established for a specific purpose) shall be paid into and form one Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State.

(2) No money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State except to meet expenditure that is charged upon the Fund by this Constitution or where the issue of those moneys has been authorised by an Appropriation Law, Supplementary Appropriation Law or Law passed in pursuance of section 121 of this Constitution.

(3) No money shall be withdrawn from any public fund of the State, other than the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State, unless the issue of those moneys has been authorised by a Law of the House of Assembly of the State.

(4) No money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State or any other public fund of the State except in the manner prescribed by the House of Assembly.

Section 121 of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution

Authorisation of expenditure from Consolidated Revenue fund

(1) The Governor shall cause to be prepared and laid before the House of Assembly at any time before the commencement of each financial year estimates of the revenues and expenditure of the State for the next following financial year.

(2) The heads of expenditure contained in the estimates, other than expenditure charged upon the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State by this Constitution, shall be included in a bill, to be known as an Appropriation Bill, providing for the issue from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State of the sums necessary to meet that expenditure and the appropriation of those sums for the purposes specified therein.

(3) Any amount standing to the credit of the judiciary in the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State shall be paid directly to the heads of the courts concerned.

(4) If in respect of any financial year, it is found that –

(a) the amount appropriated by the Appropriation Law for any purpose is insufficient; or

(b) a need has arisen for expenditure for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated by the Law, a supplementary estimate showing the sums required shall be laid before the House of Assembly and the heads of any such expenditure shall be included in a Supplementary Appropriation Bill.

Section 122 of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution

Authorisation of expenditure in default of appropriations

If the Appropriation Bill in respect of any financial year has not been passed into Law by the beginning of the financial year, the Governor may authorise the withdrawal of moneys from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State for the purpose of meeting expenditure necessary to carry on the services of the government for a period not exceeding six months or until the coming into operation of the Law, whichever is the earlier:

Provided that the withdrawal in respect of any such period shall not exceed the amount authorised to be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State under the provisions of the Appropriation Law passed by the House of Assembly for the corresponding period in the immediately preceding financial year, being an amount proportionate to the total amount so authorised for the immediately preceding financial year.

Section 123 of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution

Contingencies Fund

(1) A House of Assembly may by Law make provisions for the establishment of a Contingencies Fund for the State and for authorising the Governor, if satisfied that there has arisen an urgent and unforeseen need for expenditure for which no other provision exists, to make advances from the Fund to meet that need.

(2) Where any advance is made in accordance with the provisions of this section, a Supplementary Estimate shall be presented and a Supplementary Appropriation Bill shall be introduced as soon as possible for the purpose of replacing the amount so advanced

Going by the above, a borrowed fund and a bond raised for the State are all Public money to be paid into the the Consolidated account, see ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT & ANOR v. OBIORA (2013) LPELR-CA/E/400/2008

The only conditions for withdrawal from the Consolidated account are those stipulated in section 120 of the 1999 Constituion (Supra).

Where it appears that any project to be carried out by a State is not expressly provided for in the State Budget, then no money can be charged to such project from the State consolidated account.

Can the fact that the State House of Assembly approved the Bond cure the defect?

The act approval of the State House of Assembly for the Bond to be raised cannot cure the defect because the two actions are different and distinct in Law.

The fact that the State Legislature approved the raising of the Bond is different from the need of the State House of Assembly to pass another appropriation bill to include such project in the budget. One does not cure or suffice for the other.

In conclusion and in the light of the above, I will strongly urge the Oyo State Government to re-trace its steps in Law and do the needful as required by the Constituion, by passing a supplementary Appropriation Law to include the projects not previously included so as to be able to use the raised Bond through the Consolidated account to fund them.

Opatola Victor Esq.

09041815408 , 07069687425

adeopatola@gmail.com

EID-L-KABEER: Avoid Roads Congestion, Travel by Train – Senator Buhari urges Nigerians

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola 

The Chairman Senate  Committee on Land Transport Senator Abdulfatai Buhari has urged Nigerians to explore the opportunities of the new rail line to travel to their destinations and avoid road congestion during this year eid-el Kabir celebration.

Senator Buhari representing Oyo North Senatorial district at the upper chamber of the National Assembly also appeal to Nigerians to ensure strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols and celebrate moderately.

The All Progressives  Congress APC Chieftain in  a press statement signed by his media office felicitates with muslim faithful and pray for Allah’s blessings and divine healing of the land.

He urge Nigerians to be faithful and continue to appreciate God for his divine protection inspite of the pandemic that is ravaging the world and use the season to pray for  total cleansing and protection.

Speaking on the significance of eid el Kabir, the lawmaker said Nigerians should sacrifice their self interest and percuniary gain for the progress and Unity of the country.

” Nigeria is our home, we must all strive to build this nation together, let  us sacrifice our time,  efforts  and everything that it will take for Nigeria to be great and build a nation that future generations will always be proud to call their home.

Wolekanle Pays Homage to Alaafin of Oyo

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola 

 

Hon Akinwale Akinwole on Wednesday paid homage to Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III.

Oba Adeyemi, who recieved the Ogbomoso-born philantrophist and politician at the palace, said he is aware all is effort in puting smiles on peoples faces.

“I have heard much about you and i happy that responsible youths like you are coming up in the political arena. It is a good development and I wish you all the best in your endeavours.

“Continue to make people happy. Don’t betray the confidence that is being reposed in you by the people. And in politics, ensure you join forces to move Nigerian forward. God will continue to guide you.”

Hon. Akinwole in his short remark lauded Alaafin’s Ingenuity in promoting Yoruba culture and tradition.

“As a father, I am here to greet you and iformally inform you of my intention to be involved in active politics. I need your blessings and prayers. And I promised that you will be proud of me.”

UI: Why Ibadan won’t accept a non-indigene as 18th Vice Chancellor, says Group

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola 

A socio-political pressure group in Ibadan,  ‘Ibadan Pillars’ on Wednesday advanced reasons why the next Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan should come from the city, for the first time in 72 years of the institution’s existence.

The Ibadan Pillars in a strongly worded two-page press statement, copies of which were made available to newsmen in Ibadan, said the appointment of the would-be VC should be based on merit as the city has prominent academics within the system, who are aspirants and “ready to slug it out with others on merit; integrity test and towering academic and unblemished records of service to the institution.”

The statement by the president of the group, Asiwaju Nurudeen Akinade regretted that for over seven decades of the existence of UI, no Ibadan man was saddled with the privilege to administering the institution despite avalanche of great Ibadan professors that are abound in the institution.

According to him, since 1948 till date, 17 Vice Chancellors had administered the institution with none being an Ibadan man despite the city’s contributions to the enviable status of the university in Nigeria and beyond.

He said, “at present, Ibadanland is made up of five Local Government area within the municipality of the capital city and six Sub Urban/Rural Local Government as well as 14 additional Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

“Ibadan as the host community of the University was and still accommodative and peaceful. There has never been report of any form of scuffles and crisis between Ibadanland as the host community and UI since its establishment over seven decades ago.

“The University of Ibadan was established as a college of the University of London in 1948 and enjoyed a very large and expansive land given by the then, Kabiyesi Olubadan, the Chiefs, and the People of the City.

In one of the Kenneth Mellanby books titled University College Ibadan, ‘The Site and its acquisition (1954);’ stated thus: “subsequently, the chief and the people of Ibadan generously granted more than 2,550 acres of land for the site of the new University College.

“Farmers on the land thus acquired received equivalent N53,600 each farmers has less than N200 (equivalent).

“The Olubadan and the chief in return were allowed a nominal rent equivalent of N2,000 a year for leasing UCI site for 999years”.

He said further, “with all these sacrifices, it is disturbing, highly illogical, that an Ibadan Indigene has not been allowed to be the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the University.

“Although, VC position is not supposed to be appointed for nativity sake, but some people have long played decision makers on Ibadan soil to hate anything Ibadan.

“UI has produced 17 Vice Chancellors, none has ever come from the host city (Ibadan Land).

“Having studied the situation critically, our organization which comprises several prominent and patriotic sons and daughters of the soil both at home and diaspora and the greater percentage of good people of Ibadan Land have decided not to accept any non-Ibadan Indigene as the Vice Chancellor.

“This however, will be without sacrificing merit. Currently, there are four competent, respected, highly reserved and renowned academics who have applied for this exalted position.

“They are; Professor (Mogaji) Remi Raji Oyelade (Former Dean, Faculty of Arts); Professor Kayode Adebowale (Current DVC, Admin); Professor Emiola Olapade-Olaopa (College of Medicine) and Professor Kolapo Hamzat (Neurological Physiotherapy Department).

“We believe sincerely that any of these scholars is good enough to be the Vice chancellor of UI, as emergence of any other candidate apart from any of these four will not be acceptable to the host city.

“There is no first generation University in Nigeria that has not produced an indigenous VC of host community origin, this continuous denial is not only insultive and absurd, it is also an act of insensitivity and ingrate on the part of the Federal government and University Community.

“We appeal to the University Visitor, President Muhammad Buhari, GCFR who has done so many positive things for Yorubaland such as a well commended post humours honour for the winner of June 12 election and the late Bashorun of Ibadanland, Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR, a massive new rail system, a dry port at Erumu and recently approved dualisation of foko/gege road among others to please wipe-off our tears of 72years by giving Ibadanland the new Vice Chancellor.

“We equally appeal to the University Council, Senate, Management, Unions and other sectors and units of the University Community that they should please support this lofty request as a non-indigenous VC will neither be accepted nor supported by the generality of the Ibadanland,” Asiwaju added.

AWOTAN DUMPSITE: Consultant applauds Makinde’s plan to tap into renewable energy

By
Peter Ayoade
-

 

Environmental Consultant and CEO, Macpresse West Africa Limited, Mr. Idowu Salawu has commended plans by the Oyo State Government to tap into renewable energy sources, such that it will come from utilization of land fill gas from Awotan dumpsite.

Mr. Idowu Salawu stated this while speaking with newsmen on the potentials embedded in the 12.5 Hectare of land where the dumpsite is located in Ibadan.

He added that revitalisation, rebuilding and reforming processes at the dumpsite, after completion, would develop Oyo State’s electricity supply chain, if the State partners with a Solar Energy company.

Salawu further said tapping into the renewable energy potentials of the dumpsite would be a good support for the Federal Government’s off-grid power supply in the State. He added that this will bring in more electricity supply to Oyo State.

He added that, “the decision to tap into the solar and landfill gas, as the end use of the dumpsite is the best decision, because the government does not have to worry itself on the Federal Government’s off grid supply of electricity, once we partner with a solar energy company”.

He affirmed that the end use of the dumpsite is for it to generate electricity of One Megawatt per hectare, adding that landfill gas on the dumpsite can conveniently generate energy for electricity.

He stressed that the rehabilitation of the dumpsite is one of the prerequisites for the clean and green initiative of the State Government.

According to him, the move has converted the brown environment into a green economy, which in turn has affected the host community.

The Environmental Consultant said the government has established a value chain of employment with not less than 200 skilled and semi-skilled staff on the dumpsite, which is one of the benefits of the rehabilitation process to the host community.

“Today, we have employed skilled and unskilled men on this project. This is one of the many advantages of this rehabilitation process to Awotan, the host community”, he said.

Speaking further, Salawu said it was obvious that the rehabilitation process has affected the socio-economic activities of the host community.

On the stage at which the project is on, Salawu added that the process has reached 80% state of completion.

“The dumpsite, after completion, would be the last place where waste would come from PSPs. The dumpsite now has a 1Km access road, which makes it easy for heavy duty waste compactors to come in and it has reached 80% completion”, he said.

Salawu however called for attitudinal change among residents of the State. He also said commercialization of the sector in line with best international practices may be the best option for Oyo State Government.

IBEDC felicitates Muslim faithful, appeals for compliance with Covid-19 protocols at Sallah

By
Peter Ayoade
-

The Management of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc, IBEDC is felicitating with its esteemed customers and all Muslim faithful on the celebration of Eid-el- Kabir.

The Chief Operating Officer(COO) Engr. John Ayodele, in a goodwill message said Eid-el-Kabir offers the opportunity for a sober reflection on the virtues of sacrifice and loyalty. He said these virtues should remain our guiding principles throughout the festival and beyond for a better Nigeria.

Engr. Ayodele further appealed to customers and Nigerians in general to strictly observe the COVID 19 precautionary measures as recommended by NCDC of wearing face masks in public places, regular hand washing or use of sanitizers and physical distancing during the Sallah celebration and beyond; because only a collective effort can help us overcome the Coronavirus scourge.

He advised motorists to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and observe traffic rules to prevent collision with electric poles and other forms of accidents.

Also our esteemed customers can reach us via our Customers care lines – 0700123999 or email customercare@ibedc.com through the holidays to make enquiries or report faults. The Technical crew are available to rectify any faults that may arise during this period.

Engr. Ayodele implored customers to take advantage of our Hassle-free payment platforms- Fetswallet, Quick teller, etransact, Payarena, ATM, Jumia and USSD to pay their electricity bills promptly and vend to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the public holidays.

“Our payment centers will remain open during the holidays from 10am-3pm daily to attend to customers for enquires,complaints, bill payment and vending,” the statement added.

Nigerians are Hungry, angry with Buhari – Dr. Olapade Agoro

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola 

The founder and former presidential candidate of the defunct National Action Council (NAC), Dr Olapade Agoro has declared that Nigerians are hungry and angry with the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government in the country.

This, according to him is because of the present economic situation and the increasing spate of insecurity, less than effective handling of the anti-corruption fight and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The elder statesman, church leader, who also holds the traditional title of Owatapa of Itapa-Ijesa expressed these views while featuring on Space FM Ibadan’s programme, Parrot Xtra Hour On Radio anchored by Olayinka Agboola on Tuesday.

According to Agoro, those clamoring for the restructuring of the country are getting it wrong adding that true restructuring can only be done when Nigerians’ hunger and anger disappear and not the other way round.

The elder statesman was of the opinion that everything must be addressed in their proper perspectives and context, saying that true leaders and representatives of the people must be conversant with their people’s problems and needs.

He said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) saga involving the erstwhile Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu who is now under investigation has exposed President Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ridicule, adding that if he were to have a face-to-face meeting with the President, he would tell him that his government has not done well at all.

He wondered why Buhari was adamant in retaining Magu despite numerous unfavorable reports about him by relevant agencies, adding that “with the spate of revelations also coming from the National Assembly that some lawmakers took contracts from the Niger Delta Development Corporation as indicated by the supervising Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio, it is only God can save Nigeria.”

Regarding security, Dr Agoro, in an unsparing manner averred that the heads of security agencies and forces appear not to have any feasible solution to the problem of insurgency, kidnappings, killings and other sundry violent acts.

He lamented the cheekiness of the rampaging bandits in taking their evil act right to the home front of President Buhari in Katsina State saying “it seems they no longer want Buhari to return home.”

Agoro went further to observe that if the number one citizen of the nation can be subjected to this sort of treatment, ordinary Nigerian would be needing more than the grace of God to survive in the country. He said the issue of insecurity must be attended to as a matter of urgency.

However, he offered that although many prominent people in the country have called on Buhari to change the security chiefs, this may not necessarily be the solution because, according to him “they will be replaced by their brothers meaning that the status quo will still be maintained.”

On the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that the Federal Government has not been properly handling the situation. “It is nonsense handling”, he submitted.

When asked to comment on Senator Bola Tinubu’s perceived presidential ambition, his response: “I will implore all to support him. He has really worked to earn it. He really tried for this democracy. Almost all the major political parties in the country were floated by Tinubu.
“Unfortunately, he is presently trusting and working with foxes. I know he is intelligent. I know he will find a way of surviving and keeping these foxes in check.”

Agoro also expressed support for the South West governors’ quest to ensure that a new security architecture is set up with the help of the Amotekun Corps in the region.

‘Parrot Xtra Hour on Radio,’ a production from the stables of Prokonnect Limited, the publishers of PMParrot.com and Parrot Xtra Magazine hit the airwaves on January 7, 2020 and has since featured the likes of Professor Banji Akintoye, Arc Muyiwa Ige, Dimeji Lawal, Dele Odule, Yinka Odumakin, AIG Bashir Makama and several others.

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