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Alao-Akala salutes Prof. Taoheed Adedoja at 69!

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Oluwakemi Ishola

An elder statesman and former Governor of Oyo State, Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala has joined families, friends and professional colleagues of Prof. Taoheed Adedoja in celebrating his 69th birthday on May 27, 2020.

The APC chieftain’s congratulatory message is contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists in Ibadan on Wednesday.

Alao-Akala, who also turns 70th on June 3rd 2020, congratulated the ex provost of Federal College of Education (Special) – Oyo for a life dedicated to the search and promotion of knowledge, advancement of human skills, and contribution to national development.

“Turning an Associate Professor at the age of 39, and full Professor at 42 years is very uncommon on African continent. Your academic brilliance and ingenuity as an administrator have always been recognized locally, nationally and internationally”

“I respect you most for your innate ability to turn a relatively unknown Institution-The Federal College of Education, (Special), Oyo, as Provost to an enviable on between 1996 and 2002, so much so that the Federal Government issued you a letter of “COMMENDATION FOR GOOD LEADERSHIP” following the report of visitation panels to institutions of Higher Learning in year 2001, by placing the Institution in a global map.”

Alao-Akala urged Adedoja to take pride in the wisdom he had imparted to many over the years; the immeasurable, multiplier effect it has had on the nation and the world.”

He further affirmed the education sector of Oyo State witnessed a positive turnaround during his reign as Honorable Commissioner for Education.

“Congratulations to Balogun Agbaoye of Ibadanland, Odofin of Ago-Amodu, Jagunmolu of Akinmorin and Afimotayese of Ogbooro. I pray that the Almighty God would bless you with longer life, and sustain your fountain of wisdom to keep inspiring upcoming students, researchers and political leaders” the statement concluded.

Makinde inaugurates Mobile Police Unit, presents Hilux trucks for operations

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Adams Akorede

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, kicked off the celebration of his administration’s first year in office with the inauguration of Police Mobile Squadron in Ago-Are and distribution of 10,000 seedings to farmers in Iseyin.

The governor, who spoke at different locations said that the success of his administration is attributable to the efficient management of the resources of the state.

He added that the government has gained a lot of mileage because it cut wastage of resources.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor first spoke at Ago-Are, during the formal inauguration of the Police Mobile Force 72 Squadron and presentation of six Hilux trucks for the operations of the outfit.

He stated that his administration remained committed to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property of the citizens of the state.

The statement further quoted the governor as saying that he made a request for the PMF 72 Squadron in August 2019, appreciating the Inspector-General of Police for cutting bureaucratic bottlenecks to grant approval for the Squadron.

The governor, had also as part of activities commemorating the first anniversary of the administration, kickstarted the distribution of seedlings to 10,000 farms in the state at Iseyin, noting that the effort was part of the government’s palliatives to ensure food security in the state post-COVID-19 pandemic.

The governor, while speaking at Ago-Are, appreciated traditional institutions, elders and leaders of Ago-Are in particular and Oke Ogun in general, for their support, even as he commended the officers of the Squadron for the positive testimonies he has so far heard about them, urging them to be efficient in the discharge of their duties.

He added that his government will ensure the speedy completion of the permanent site for the Unit.

The governor said: “I am glad that we are together today, to officially commence the operations of PMF 72. How did we give birth to the Squadron? I made a request on the 19th of August, 2019 to the Inspector General of Police, which was less than 3 months after we came into office, because security is one of the pillars of this administration.

“As I have always stated, the safety and security of lives and properties of the people of Oyo state is a top priority for this administration. It took me and the entourage about two hours to get here. And if we are to go to Kisi, it would take another two to three hours from here to get there. That is how vast Oyo State is. Oyo state is bigger than some countries in Africa. To cover the entire state, of course, we need personnel, logistics, and agile police mobile force and that is why we have PMF 72.

“From all the technical evaluation that was done, Ago-Are in the Oke-Ogun axis of Oyo State became the choice. I want to thank you, Kabiyesi. Kabiyesi just mentioned in his speech now and I have seen the site for the permanent location of this squadron. He donated a 1km by 1km site and I give you the commitment of the government of Oyo state to speedily ensure that this place is well-developed, because the welfare of the squadron is very important.

“Let me also emphasise that, for this administration, there is a very strong commitment to security and we would do everything within our power to ensure that our people go about their businesses in a safe and secure environment.

“The rehabilitation of this temporary site was done in record time and I thank everyone including the commander of this squadron for the work that you did to ensure that this is completed speedily and made habitable.”

The governor added that his administration would commit more resources to ensure security in the state, stating that apart from the six Hilux trucks being presented to the PMF 72 Squadron in addition to the two initially given to them, the government would also give motorcycles and ensure that the logistics for its operation is well-developed.

“I cannot end this address without charging you the officers to be efficient in the discharge of your duties. And why did I harp on efficiency? This is because when we came in, the naysayers said, within six months, they would probably be stoning us. But now, it is going to be one year in a matter of two days but the people are not stoning us. It is because we have decided to manage the resources of the state efficiently.

The resources are limited but when wastages are cut and you are efficient, with that limited resources, it would give us a whole lot of mileage.”

Earlier, the commissioner of police, Oyo State Command, CP Shina Olukolu, said the inauguration of PMF 72 Squadron, Ago -Are demonstrated the fulfilment of the promise made by the governor to protect the lives and properties of the people of the state.

He explained that the establishment of 72 PMF at Ago-Are would entrench the principles and strategy of community policing, which is part of the government’s policy thrust at combating crimes and criminality as well as taking policing to the people.

 

Ladoja, Ajimobi Congratulate Soun of Ogbomosoland at 94

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Bushrah Kaffi
Two former Governors of Oyo State, Senators Rashidi Ladoja and Abiola Ajimobi on Wednesday congratulated the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade 1 on his 94th birthday.
Ladoja, who is the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland described the Paramount ruler of Ogbomosoland, as a monarch with finesse.
In a statement by his media assistant, Alhaji Lanre Latinwo, the former Governor prayed that the Oba live more prosperous years to serve his people to the best of his ability.
Senator Ladoja also rejoiced with the people of Ogbomosoland for the development being  witnessed during the reign of Oba Ajagungbade.
Also, Ajimobi, the immediate past Governor and Deputy National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), described the Soun as a living legend whose reign has brought peace and unity to Ogbomosoland and by extension Oyo State.
A statement by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser Communication and Strategy to the APC Deputy National Chairman (South) quoted Ajimobi as saying that clocking the enviable age of 94 is no mean achievement also considering the fact that the nonagenarian monarch still enjoys good health.
Ajimobi described the Imperial majesty as a highly respected and revered monarch who has been a stabilizing factor in the social and traditional institutions in Oyo State and Yorubaland. He described Oba Ajagungbade’s reign as the pivot for the giant developmental strides Ogbomoso and its surrounding towns have witnessed in recent time.
“With your nearly five decades on the throne of your forefathers, Kabiyesi, you have brought tremendous development to Ogbomosoland and its surrounding towns”, Ajimobi said.
According to Ajimobi, the Soun had always demonstrated total commitment to the sustenance of peace in Ogbomosoland and Oyo State in general.
 “His love for his people have shown in the giant strides of Ogbomoso sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora. Though it is always said that uneasy lies the head that wears the crown, by carriage, achievements and astuteness, Kabiyesi has shown that he has been able to carry his subjects along on every steps he has taken since his ascension to the throne about 47 years ago.
“The monarchy is a labour intensive industry, to quote the former British Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, but Kabiyesi has laboured in love for his people and he has been accorded the necessary support that has allowed peace and tranquility to reign in his domain”.

Edo 2020: Hours after Ize-Iyamu Emerges APC Candidate, Obaseki Boasts He’s Unstoppable .Insists He Will Return As Edo Governor

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Debo Adeoye, Southern Bureau Chief

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has vowed to re-emerge as the state governor in the coming 2020 Edo State Gubernatorial Election.

Obaseki made the statement while featuring on Channels Tv programme, “Sunrise Daily” on Wednesday, as a guest of the station.

He expressed optimism on his returning to office as the governor of the State after 2020 election, stressing that, “only God gives power, hence, I am unstoppable.

“I am not a violent person. But I am confident that the way I got into power is the same way I will return.

“God gave me power. If he wants me to return, I will continue. No man can stop me. Power comes from God.”

Governor Obaseki debunked the rumor renting the air that he used the resources of the people of Edo State to become governor.

“I have friends with resources. I worked for eight years behind the scene before I became governor.

“So all that insinuations about using somebody’s resources is not true. I became Governor on the platform of the party and I am grateful for it.

“It does not matter whether it is direct or indirect (primaries), I will win.”

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC), had earlier on Wednesday announced its endorsement of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu as the consensus candidate of the party.

The decision of APC is an indication that the party is done with the sitting Governor Obaseki, who has been having issues with the party national chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomole.

Fresh Crisis hits Oyo APC over plan to expel Ex-Communications Minister, Shittu

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Rebecca Akinkanju

Fresh crisis is brewing in the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), following alleged clandestine moves to expel former Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu, from the party.

It was reliably learnt that leaders of the party in the state loyal to the former governor of the state, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, are putting pressure on executives of the party in his Ward 2 and Saki West local government area to expel him.

It was gathered that events leading to this began when four APC local government Chairmen representing Forum of APC Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State, paid a visit to the former Minister about a month ago preaching the need for reconciliation in the party which he did not object to.

A source at the meeting however said Shittu told the chairmen that to achieve genuine reconciliation there are conditions which must be met in order for the aggrieved members to have a sense of belonging.

The first condition which the former Minister said must be met according to the source, was that members of the party particularly those who belonged to the Unity Forum group who purchased nomination forms during the last state congress but not allowed to be part of the party primaries must be refunded their money.

Other condition was the dissolution of the party executives at all levels and to be reconstituted at the ratio of 50/50 between members loyal to Ajimobi called SENACO and the aggrieved members who belonged to Unity Forum which Shittu insisted were the only ones who bought forms during the last state congress.

The former Minister also said the state Chairman of the party must come from the Unity Forum, noting that the SENACO group has continued to produce the Chairman since the formation of the party in the state.

The source added that the party chairmen then assured Shittu that since they had the blessings of the leadership of the party in the state for their meeting with him and that they would deliver his message which they agreed with in totality to the right quarters.

“It was a frank discussions that the former Minister had with the party chairmen who told him that the meeting had the blessings of the leadership of the party in the state and that the conditions he gave were important and necessary for genuine reconciliation in the party.

“They then assured him that they would get back to him after reporting back to the leadership of the party with a promise that the meeting with him was a step in the right direction”, the source said.

However it was gathered that trouble started when the party chairmen reported back to the leadership of the party in the state who accused them of trying to hand over the party to Shittu and his group in Unity Forum with the conditions that they agreed with him at the detriment of members in SENACO group.

It was learnt that to stop further agitation for genuine reconciliation by Shittu, a marching order was given to the executives of the party in his ward, Ward 2 and Saki West local government area to expel him from the party which the executives resisted, insisting that the former Minister is an important and reliable member who has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the party.

It was however gathered that the development may spell doom for the party as history has it that whenever injustice is meted out to the Saki-born politician, the party would always face defeat.

When he was expelled from the then ruling party in old Oyo State in 1983, Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) as a member of the state House of Assembly, the party lost the gubernatorial election that year to the opposition, National Party of Nigeria (NPN).

Similarly, when he was denied the gubernatorial ticket of the APC during the last general election in 2019, the party lost the state to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

It is thus expedient for the leadership of the party to thread with caution in its handling of the matter so as not to let history repeat itself as there seems to be God’s intervention in all cases of injustice meted out to the former Minister.

CHILDREN’S DAY: Makinde Felicitates Oyo Children

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Adams Akorede

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has felicitated with children in Oyo State on the occasion of the 2020 Children’s day.

The Governor who spoke through the Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Adeniran prayed for God’s protection on all children in the State.

The Governor charged children to be good ambassadors of the State and their parents. He also urged them to shun evil vices and be of good behaviour so that that they can have a brighter future.

He said, “I felicitate with the children of Oyo State and children all over the world on this auspicious occasion of Children’s Day celebration. Children’s Day is an event celebrated in many places across the world. The day is simply set to honour children and minors.

He noted that the present reality caused by the novel coronavirus outbreak has impeded any funfair the State Government may have planned for them.

“We sincerely love you, but in the face of the present situation of coronavirus in the country, it is impossible to gather for celebrations”.

“As we pray for God’s protection, may we all live to witness and celebrate 2021 Children’s day and beyond, in good health, peace and progress in every area of our lives”, he prayed.

He reassured children of the State Government’s commitment to fulfilling its promise of a better and prosperous future for children through free and quality Education.

The Governor opined that the task of training up a child should not be left to government alone.

He therefore called on parents to play significant roles in sharpening the future of their children and wards.

Makinde eulogises Soun of Ogbomosoland at 94

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Rebecca Akinkanju

Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, has congratulated the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III on the occasion of his 94th birthday, describing him as a leader and royal father with an exemplary life.

Makinde, in a congratulatory message to the royal father, felicitated him, noting that his life as a leader and father to all “has always been something we are proud of.”

The governor prayed to God to grant the Oba Oyewumi good health so that he continues to lead the people and bring greater prosperity to Ogbomosoland.

The statement read: “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Oyo State, I felicitate our father, the Soun of Ogbomosoland Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III, as he celebrates his 94th birthday.

“Kabiyesi, your exemplary life as a leader and father to all has always been something we are proud of.

“We celebrate you today and pray that God Almighty grants you good health so that you can continue to lead your people and bring greater prosperity to your domain.

“Happy Birthday, Kabiyesi.”

Oyo Scorecard: Appraising Governor Seyi Makinde’s First Year Administration ||Prof. Olaiya

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Olaiya Abideen Olaitan Ph.D

May 27, 2020

 

I have been waiting for this opportunity to make known my observation on the state of governance in my state not necessarily as a politician but as a responsible citizen who is keenly interested in good governance.

Secondly as a passionate teacher who knows the value of continuous assessment in the overall result will not merely wait for end result when the case may be irredeemable before making comments on the report card.

I am not unaware of various sentiments or prejudice that can be used to bury the voice of reasoning in the volatile political space we find ourselves but I am determined to obey my conscience and work for posterity.

My stake in Oyo state is to have good governance in place. Good governance is perceived as a normative principle of administrative law that obliges the state to perform its function in a manner that promotes the values of efficiency, non-corruptibility, and responsiveness to civil society. The true test of good governance is the degree to which it delivers on the promise of fundamental human rights, the key of which are effectively guaranteeing the right to health, food, education, fair justice, housing, and personal security. It is on these bases I am going to evaluate the past one year’s administration of Oyo state.

The administration started on a good note of populism occasioned by some point of departure of the last administration from good governance and the citizens made them pay good prizes at the polls, being that as it may, it is definitely unsustainable for longer than election periods.

1. My first observation has to do with the integrity of the coalition and agreements that ensured victory for the present administration. Our political terrain is full of intrigues that portends danger to one of the principles of good governance which are participatory / equity / consensus / inclusiveness. The current administration was birthed by a coalition spearheaded by Chief Akala though dropped midway, piloted successfully to the end by Chief Ladoja while Chief Lanlehin and Chief Alli were at the receiving end. Good governance stresses integrity over intrigues since both are intertwined in the political domain.

2. Transparency and accountability: The debt profile of the state is on the rise since the beginning of this administration, as at last count, it was over 40 billions without any tangible projects to show for it, it was Prof Sheriff Tella a renowned economist and former Vice Chancellor of Crescent University that gave professional advice to Ogun house of assembly then not to assent to request of the government for want of productive ventures, robust repayment schedules and transparency in its processes. Oyo house have not successfully defended itself in the public nor the government showed such transparency or productivity of Modern garrages/terminus, agriculture or other ventures to which the loans will be or have been channelled. Also, what was responsible for sudden change in wages bill from over 5 billion to over 10 billion monthly is still shrouded in controversy. The government need No-Box strategic thinking in managing the state economy.

3. Responsiveness: The administration tried with prompt payments of salaries, however, other emergencies that requires quick response have not been adequately responded to. The cases of fire outbreaks, road accidents and COVID 19 especially will be mentioned. The administration responded late to which a political rally was held, key functionaries of government fell victims, government activities was paralyzed for over a week, the state position on COVID causality incidents is on the rise while palliatives/PPE/preventive materials were poorly managed. It is highly necessary that the government put in place a robust emergency and disaster management agency for the state.

4. Security and rule of law: Just like past governments, the administration purchased vehicles for security agencies and repairs/replaced street lights, but this has not in any way reduce the spate of insecurities in the state. Kidnapping, assassination and armed robbery have increased in the state capital and Ibarapa axis to the extent that citizens in many areas of the state can no longer sleep with their two eyes closed or engaged in vigilante throughout the nights. Return of garages control to rival thug group of NURTW under the guise of park managers have heightened the tensions around the garages. Good that legal framework has been devised for Amotekun Security outfit which we are monitoring its take off. The issues of arbitrarily sacking the elected LG executives before approaching law courts are seen as lawless or abuse of lawful process. The administration as a matter of urgency need to resolve this bottlenecks or lacuna as it is negatively affecting local government administration in the state.

5. Education / Health / Housing: The administration stopped payments of development levies and provided some books to students of some basic schools which is a welcomed development, however, the educational sector requires more than that, it requires the declaration of a state of emergency the kind it received during Chief Bola Ige regime. Students and teachers were highly motivated, infrastructures put in place within short notice and teachers were adequately employed and more schools founded to take care of overpopulation and reaching out to the disadvantaged localities. Students in higher institutions require bursary and LAUTECH ownership requires a decisive conclusion. The COVID scourge has exposed the poor state of our local health facilities especially those outside the state capital, all these are begging for the kind attention of the administration if the health insurance being tossed is anything to go by. I am not aware of any housing project of this administration; the government needs a master plan for the sustainable development of the housing sector.

6. Agriculture / Roads / Social security: Agriculture which is one of the basic sources of food security and economic development, has been motions without movements like the past administrations. The state and rural roads are begging for attention while enabling the environment needs to be created for businesses to thrive. The employment process embarked upon should be concluded as soon as possible while other socio services of the government by its various agencies should be delivered efficiently.

Like I said at the beginning of this write-up, it’s all about good governance, and it’s all about continuous assessment. Time is of essence in every human activity as it waits for no one. The ball is in the court of GSM today and I wish him a successful tenure.

May 27, 2020

Olaiya Abideen Olaitan is an Associate Professor of Crop Eco-physiology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNNAB) and ADP Deputy Governor Candidate in 2019 election.

Seyi Makinde Projects’ Commission in 365days and State Affairs || Olawale Muideen Aremu

By
Peter Ayoade
-

Quite frankly, banters have thrown by many folks from different walks of life with particular reference to the disillusioned members of the opposition party. This pull him down mantra on the part of the opposition and enemies of modern day governance is nothing but an attempt to smear the soaring good image of the beloved masses choice and unprecedented steady achivements of GSM.

Tons of illicit posts have had themselves littered on the global media cum new information vendors ranging from Facebook, Whatsapp loops, Twitter, Youtube among other social media platforms traceable to bootlickers of the past administration, without mincing words, era of fake news has gone. Thus, those of you peddling confusing stories should desist as the electorates are happy with the chosen one called “GSM”

Having assumed office in May 29, 2019, after overwhelmingly crushed his closest rival in the polls with over 150,000 excess votes, to put precisely as used by Dr Azeez Adedutan (an APC chieftain), the war-ridden and  belligerent opposition members have embarked on crass campaign of calumny while reeling from the massive support His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde (GSM) acquired from the populace. 

This is not infer that this government is not infallible of criticism, indeed, it is the pinnacle of democracy to expressly speak out against anomalies and inadequacies in governance. However, the beauty of opposition in democracy is criticism which should be ordinate and constructive.

Having said, wherever and whenever this government is found wanting of morality and rule of law, I will not hesitate to sanction her shortcomings and whip for correctional motive. As entrenched in the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, one is entitled to his opinion (freedom of speech) albeit with limitations to law of slander, libel and sedition. I am glad to put this piece together especially with the unimaginable actions of GSM based on his public assets declaration, assenting to financial improprieties bill, meaning that it is business unusual from the God fearing chief executive officer of the pacesetter state. 

Let us take in piecemeal, some of the activities of the government in the last eleven months;

• On Security, Governor Seyi Makinde, (GSM) has solidified the security apparatus in the state having procured ultramodern patrol vehicles to the Nigerian Police in the state and rebranded the existing “Operation Burst” inherited from the previous administration with the state of art facilities. This implies that Governor Seyi Makinde is a peace loving state manager who values lives and properties of the citizens and has remained a calm personality even before he was elected as the governor of the state, despite the series of attacks on his supporters and billboards by opposition members during electioneering. Aside that, GSM led-government launched a toll-free call service of 615 for citizens to report security issues/challenges in case of any. It is important to note the “Amotekun Security Architecture” in collaboration with other southwest governors in a bid to curb societal upheavals.

• On education, GSM usual opines that he generously benefitted from free education of the founding fathers of democracy, thus, to whom much is given much is equally expected. To him, readers are learners and no child should be deprived of the compulsory secondary education. To start with, proscription of #3000 heart soaking school fees. The recent figures and indices are already exposing the rot in our system as left by the erstwhile government. It is quite unfortunate that efforts of the past government were mere lip service; GSM rather than toeing that line, sees improving the sector by investing heavily in it. The government provided over 100,000 copies of examination compendium to students in public secondary schools in state. 

It is equally worthwhile to remind the noisemakers and naysayers how the government organized extramural classes for students in public secondary schools in addition to huge investment in the education sector. Higher institutions in the state also benefitted from GSM magnanimity. Perennial challenges of Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH) has been cushioned, The Polytechnic of Ibadan and The Ibarapa Polytechnic with persistent accreditation problems have been sorted, Colleges of Education and Agriculture in Oyo, Lanlate and Igboora have been revitalized and students/lecturers have been enjoyed uninterrupted academic session save for global issue of CONVID 19 pandemic. 

Within his 100 days in office, he commissioned Six (6) Model Schools, executed under the Universal Basic Education Commission-FG/Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board intervention Projects across the three senatorial districts of Oyo State.

• The re-awarding of Iseyin-Moniya road as we all know was due to the bloated contractual agreement between the previous government and the contract. Yet, the contractor thought it was business as usual by neglecting the road construction. If anyone has visited the site in recent time, you will see the change in the construction within seven months. The beauty of this award of contract is that it is indigenously contracted for the benefits of the Oyo State citizens.

• At twilight of Ajimobi-led administration, the figures from both Debt Management Office and National Bureau of Statistics, as of March 31, 2019, Oyo State’s total debt stood at over #126 billion. This is a huge debt profile, however, the current administration is assiduously working hard to reduce it as well as provide infrastructure development. The recently approved loan of #20 billion by the Oyo State House of Assembly has started generating unnecessary controversies when we clamouring for infrastructural facelift. Why are these belligerent opposition members so petty?

• In recent months, GSM has also approved eight (8) road projects for immediate rehabilitation and reconstruction in Oyo State which is due for commissioning as soon as possible. 

• Acquisition of new vehicles for OYRTMA and approval of responsibilities allowance for OYRTMA officers.

• Within the short period in office, the government has also launched free medical mission for all citizens of the state.

• Boosting agriculture and food security in the state through partnership with Farmcrowdy, a leading Agritech company in Nigeria. Farm settlements to boost agriculture have flagged off and initiated to make the state the food basket of the nation with endowed arable land and human resources.

• On July 12, 2019 the governor also commissioned the renovated and equipped operating theatre, radiography unit and medical laboratory in the Adeoyo State Hospital. This move is in addition to the free healthcare declaration by the government shortly after assuming office.

• On COVID-19, Oyo State citizens both home and in the Diaspora understand how huge the deadly virus has crippled the world economy, thus, he has set Olodo Infectious Disease Center with state of the art facilities, Agbami health center was earmarked, University College Hospital has collaboration in the treatment of this viral disease. Setting of CONVID 19 task force with bunches of erudite healthcare experts. You do not need to panic with the recent soaring number of CONVID 19 cases declared by NCDC as mass testing is being conducted while a particular organization housed most of these numbers. Let me quickly say this, total lockdown is not feasible in our country at large while the practicable measures are: frequent washing of hands, proper hygiene, hand sanitizing, use of facemask, maintaining physical distancing, fumigation of public places, locking of non-essential centers among others.

As you can see, the template initiated by GSM was eventually adopted by the federal government herself.

• In the past few days, the state has also scaled up its efforts in testing more people through the “Drive-Through/Walk-Through Testing initiative which was supported by Citizens for Citizens and LifeBank Nigeria with the provision of the 2000 testing kits. 

The rapid testing initiative and the test centre located inside Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, which was launched over few days ago, has helped in attending to many people with symptoms similar to that of COVID-19.

• Similarly, the state government through the COVID-19 taskforce has made available over 610 personal protective equipment (PPE), a move that is widely lauded by health professionals that are leading the fight against the disease in the state. While all these efforts are on, the government has affirmed that she’s partnering with University College Hospital Authorities in the fight against the disease.

Well, these are just few master moves the government has made in recent months. That the government has refused to travel the path of previous governments by using state-owned funds to advertise government’s achievements does not mean there are no achievements to count for the governor during his one-year in office anniversary. Finally, government is continuum thus, uncompleted and abandoned projects of the previous government were not jettisoned but rather absorbed and continued to save the coffers of the state.

While swearing oaths of allegiance, GSM has at least four (4) statutory years to turnaround the state to her pacesetting enviable status. If this assertion is true, then why the fuss about commissioning of projects when everything is work in progress. 

On behalf of the PDP media team, I submit that, the roadmap of accelerated development charted by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde is not only feasible but achievable.

BREAKING: Oyo Records 6 Fresh Cases of COVID-19

By
Peter Ayoade
-

By Oluwakemi Ishola

Oyo State on Tuesday recorded six fresh cases of coronavirus, bringing the number of confirmed cases to 250. 

The new active cases were revealed in the routine update of information released by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) late Monday.

Also, the agency also said 276 cases of the deadly virus were recorded on Tuesday May 26, 2020, in fifteen states of the country. The total number of confirmed cases is 8344. Total Discharged cases stands at 2385 while 249 Deaths cases have been recorded so far.

Here is the breakdown of the 276 new cases:

Lagos-161.               Rivers-36.              Edo-27

Kaduna-19.              Nasarawa-10.       Oyo-6

Kano-4.                    Delta-3.                  Ebonyi-3

Gombe-2.                Ogun-1.                   Ondo-1

Borno-1.                   Abia-1.                     Bauchi-1

AKESAN FIRE: Makinde Relieves Traders With 10m, Chairman Set Up C’ttee

By
Peter Ayoade
-
By Peter Ayoola
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Oyo Group Backs Govt Over Loan, says Infrastructure, Health Sector Need Overhaul

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Oluwakemi Ishola
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Eid-el-Fitri: Oyo CAN lauds Muslims over compliance with govt directives

By
Peter Ayoade
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Debo Adeoye, Ibadan

The Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN), Oyo State Chapter has commended Muslims in the state for complying with government directives on Eid-el-Fitri  celebration during the coronavirus(COVID-19) pandemic.

This is contained in a statement signed by its Chairman, Pastor Benjamin Akanmu and made available to newsmen on Monday in Ibadan.

Akanmu felicitated with Muslims on the successful completion of the 30 days fasting, commending them for observing eid-el-fitri prayer in their various homes in compliance with government directives.

“On behalf of the entire Christians in Oyo State, I congratulate all Muslims throughout the world, particularly those in Oyo State on the Eid-el- Fitri celebration.

“I pray God Almighty accept all our prayers and grant everyone more grace to witness more of it in good health,” Akanmu prayed.

He described as high commendable their obedience to the directives on public gathering which signified the humility in Yoruba culture.

“We as religious leaders should also not forget to continue to lead by example. Moreso, we are directed by God to honour and obey the laws of the land as well as those in authority,” he said.

The CAN chairman admonished all to be patient with the government and support every efforts put in place to drive COVID-19 out of Nigeria.

Akanmu urged Muslims to always apply the lesson learnt during the holy month to every aspects of their lives and relationship with other people.

He called on Muslims and adherents of other religions to live in love, peace and harmony with one another.

The CAN chairman stressed the need for both Muslims and Christians to comply with the restriction orders as well as other guidelines reeled out by the government.

“With collective efforts of all we can the stubborn virus out of Nigeria. We must not

relent in contributing to the religious harmony enjoyed in the state while also praying for the nation.

”I will love to implore you all to continue to pray for our state and Nigeria as a nation to ensure that the country survive the hardship ushered in by the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.

Help, Oyo Govt Neglects Our 24-month Salary arrears, LAUTECH Doctors allege

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Adams Akorede

The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso on Tuesday alleged Oyo state Government of neglecting their 24 months salary arrears.

They have therefore demanded for the immediate payment of the backlog to prevent industrial action.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr Abraham Akinbola and General Secretary, Dr Abubakar Usman.

The association in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Ibadan, stressed the need for urgent payment of the salary arrears.

“There is a need to urgently commence the payment of our two years half salary arrears from January 2016 to December 2017

“This payment has commenced for other affected institutions in the state. Our assumption as an association is that we are not different from other Oyo State workers.

“But we feel the government of the day is neglecting our concerns. This alone has put the government in bad light in the eyes of our members,” it said.

The association demanded the installation, repair and maintenance of some of their sophisticated medical equipment for upmost service deliveries.

It called for the employment of more staff to lessen the burden of the present workers and improvement of doctors salary scale to corrected CONMESS as enjoyed by other health workers in the country since 2014.

The association also demanded payment of new minimum wage to health workers same way other state workers started enjoying since January 2020.

“As an association of resident doctors, we have upheld the best of professional conducts in delivering our services to the good people of Oyo State and its environs.

“We strongly admonish the government to change her disposition towards LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Ogbomoso to usher in the real Omituntun experience.

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“Time to act is now to save LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Ogbomoso from imminent collapse,” it said.

It said that the hardship experienced by workers in the hospital saw to the exit of brilliant hands and others who could not bear it.

“Only those who believe in the founding vision of the institution stayed behind and are still presently working in the hospital to achieve those dreams within scarce resources,” it said.

The association said that it never got the opportunity to present their daunting challenges in spite of all efforts to meet the governor.

According to the association, “We have done many press releases to keep the world abreast of our challenges while drawing the attention of the state government to the pressing issues.

“This year alone, we wrote two different letters to the governor and this is the second press release in the last four weeks. No response to address our agitations whatsoever.

“The only mention we got was when His Excellency mistook us for Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) LAUTECH in one of his briefings. Our agitations have not changed.”

COVID 19: FCT Taskteam arrests 29 Lagos-bound commercial motorcyclists

By
Peter Ayoade
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By Bushrah Kaffi, Yakubu Temitope & Adams Akorede

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Ministerial Enforcement Task-team on Covid-19 Restrictions, on Tuesday, arrested 29 commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada Riders, who were travelling in a truck from Nasarawa State to Lagos State.

The truck with Number Plate LFA 837 ZX was intercepted at the AYA Bridge in Asokoro District of the territory.

They were later arraigned before Magistrate Idayat Akonni at Eagle Square who found them guilty and ruled that the truck be impounded, while the driver was awarded a fine of N3,000 and all the occupants of the truck be sent back to their point of departure.

While addressing newmen before a Mobile Court, the Chairman of the Taskteam team, Ikharo Attah said: “Despite the series of arrests, prosecution and turning back of violators by the FCT administration, many persons are yet to fully comply with the Presidential directive on interstate travel ban.

“Just when one feels there is enough arrest to deter people, many more would continue to move and traverse state borders.

“We in the Enforcement Team are very saddened by the way human dignity is trampled upon. How can the driver load passengers in a truck carrying stones to Lagos which is highly uncomfortable for the human body? We have seen also where persons are transported in between bags of beans, onions, fertilizers and even cement. In very sad cases, some even hide under cattle to evade arrest. Even the driver of the truck admitted that he cannot allow any member of his family to be transported in such manner.

“The truck and all its non-human contents would be impounded until the Covid-19 restrictions were lifted.” He declared.

Also speaking, the driver of the truck, Samaila Samiya said he was coming from Taraba State and when got to Lafia, Nasarawa State Capital, he decided to pick the passengers after they pleaded to pay the sum of N2,000.

The truck, according to him, was carrying fine stones used for making marbles and tiles loaded in Taraba State and heading to Lagos States.

One of the passengers, Musa Simon said they were commercial motorcyclists who had left Lagos State in the wake of the Covid-19 lockdown and were going back to resume work due to the threats by the motorcycle owners that they would sell off the motorcycles if they refused to resume work.

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