Politics

PDP BoT Condoles with Bodija Explosion Victims, Visit Site

By Web News 404

By Iyabo Adebisi

The Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has expressed its deepest sympathy to the victims and families of the explosion in Old Bodija, Ibadan, praying for a quick recovery of those injured. 

The PDP Board of Trustees chairman and former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who led other members of the party to the governor on a sympathy visit commiserated with Governor Seyi Makinde over the unfortunate blast.

Addressing journalists, Senator Wabara who commended the governor for his quick response on the situation, called for an investigation into the cause of the explosion with a view to taking measures to prevent future recurrence. 

In a remark, Governor Makinde appreciated the visit of the BOT to the state over the explosion describing the incident as very unfortunate.

The governor, however, noted that the visit of the members who came from different geopolitical zones demonstrated that the unity of the nation is very important. 

The members of the PDP BoT later visited the “Ground Zero” of the explosion in Bodija to assess the level of damage on the site.

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Security

Adeleke Calls for Thorough Investigation into Bodija Explosion

By Web News 646

By Funmi Adekoya-Ojo

The recent explosion in the Bodija Area of Ibadan in Oyo State must be thoroughly investigated.

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke who stated this in a condolence message by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, described the incident as sad and unfortunate.

Governor Adeleke commiserated with his Oyo State counterpart, Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State government and the people of the state over the explosion.

“I commiserate with my Oyo State counterpart, Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyo State Government and the entire people of Oyo State especially those affected by the Ibadan explosion. It is a really sad thing happening at the beginning of the year.” 

“This incident is not only sad and unfortunate but also a huge economic blow to many families in the affected area”.

The governor prayed for those who lost their loved ones and that God will give them the fortitude to bear the loss and those who have lost property that God will help them to recover their loss.

Governor Adeleke, while calling for a thorough investigation into the incident, commended security operatives and rescue workers who swung into action since the incident happened.

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Lifestyle

Sanwo-Olu Condoles with Makinde on Bodija Explosion

By Web News 460

By Rasheedah Makinde

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has condoled with Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on the tragic Ibadan explosion.

Governor Sanwo-Olu who stated this on his social media platform said his prayers were with the families of the victims describing the incident as disheartening and which calls for unity and support in these challenging times.

He, commended Governor Makinde for his swift response in the wake of the disaster and the collaboration of agencies.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, therefore, pledged the support of Lagos state in providing the help required during this trying time in Oyo State.

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Security

Veteran calls for more recruitment into the Nigerian Army

By Web News 577

By Iyabo Adebisi

There is a need for the federal government to recruit more personnel into the Nigerian Army to tackle the security challenges facing the nation.

The Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Oyo State Command, Julius Ogunkojo made the case while speaking with journalists during this year’s Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration held at the Remembrance Arcade Agodi, Ibadan.

He stressed the need to boost the morale of soldiers through the payment of their benefits and improved living wages.

Mr Ogunkojo therefore implored government and well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the ex-servicemen to enhance their lives.

The host of the event, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, commended the service commanders, men and officers in Oyo State for their dedication to securing the state. 

Governor Makinde said his administration would continue to support the families of the fallen soldiers and make life bearable for them.

The highlight of the ceremony is the laying of the wreath and firing of the 21-gun salute as a mark of honour to the ex-servicemen.

The Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration which is an annual event on every 15th January is set aside to identify with the fallen heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defending the country and keeping the international peace.

Also in Osun State, the Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration was celebrated.

Nigerians owe families of fallen heroes a lot – Gov. Adeleke

By Funmi Ojo

Nigerians owe the families of gallant fallen heroes a duty of care, support and prayers at all times to ameliorate their pain and loss.

Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke stated this at the grand finale and laying of wreath at the Military Cenotaph for the 2024 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration in Osogbo.

Governor Adeleke stressed the need to provide support for retired soldiers and families of men and women of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other crimes in the country.

While commending the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes in defending the nation’s sovereign integrity, peace and unity, the governor said he would continue to advocate the interest of retired and serving officers at national and other strategic levels.

He pointed out that when a nation cares for its service personnel, the defence infrastructure is further entrenched with the civil population.

The governor called on public and private organizations to expand their support for the military stressing that in the face of conflict and economic depression, the nation’s security should remain a national priority.

Governor Adeleke who commended the military leadership for the implementation of the civil-military intervention programme, noted that the Chief of Army Staff has commissioned several projects since he assumed office.

He urged the military leadership to work with the community development agencies in each state in the implementation process to ensure the right location of projects and synergy with local development plans.

The governor assured the legionnaires and veterans of government readiness to attend to their demands presented before him.

At the event, prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of departed soldiers and a 21-gun salute honour.

The grand finale of the 2024 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration which had in attendance dignitaries from government and the security agencies featured the laying of a wreath and a special parade in honour of the departed heroes.

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Lifestyle

IAWPA Describes Makinde as Peace Ambassador

By Web News 338

By Sheriffdeen Nasirudeen

The International Association of World Peace Advocates, IAWPA, Oyo State has described Governor Seyi Makinde as a quintessential Peace Ambassador, whose administration has placed the pacesetter state on the path of sustainable development.

A statement in Ibadan by Oyo State Director of IAWPA, Ambassador Musa Alongbija felicitating the governor on his 56th birthday notes that Engineer Makinde is a blessing to Oyo State for his reformation and transformation policies in an atmosphere of sustained peace.

Ambassador Alongbija affirmed that the World Peace Advocates has chosen Oyo State as the most peaceful state in the federation courtesy of Governor Seyi Makinde.

He prayed God to grant Engineer Makinde more fruitful, impactful and prosperous years on earth and divine leadership wisdom to continue to be a blessing to humanity.

According to him, “Engineer Makinde is an enigma, visionary and peace loving governor, whose strategic security architecture has brought peace and attracted numerous investors into the state”.

The IAWPA State Director, and the executives as well as Eminent Peace Ambassadors in the state while joining other well wishers to celebrate Governor Makinde’s birthdate, pledged continued support for towards sustaining peace in Oyo State.

Tourism

CPN Appeals to Gov. Makinde Over Relocation of Trans Amusement Park

By Web News 563

By Bunmi Agboola

Child Protection Network, CPN, Oyo State has appealed to the state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde to reconsider his decision to convert the Trans Amusement Park, Bodija into a housing estate.

The appeal was made during a peace walk to mark this year’s International Children’s Day at the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

The CPN is a UNICEF Initiative which sees to gross violations of the rights of children such as lack of access to quality education, paucity of teachers in primary schools and the use of children as street hawkers and beggars to mention a few.

The Oyo State coordinator of CPN, Mrs Oluwatoyin Ogedengbe said Oyo State being one of the first states in Nigeria to domesticate the Child Rights Act, should give utmost priority to recreation centres for children which she said was one of their rights. 

Mrs Ogedengbe said the decision to relocate the Trans Amusement Park to the outskirts of Ibadan would deprive the generality of the children of Oyo State of their rights to leisure and recreation.

She appealed to the state government to use the parcel of land in llutuntun, Akinyele Local Government Area, initially recommended to replace the present Trans Amusement Park, for the proposed housing estate.

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Security

Makinde Asks Police to Reduce Roadblocks

By Web News 366

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has appealed to the Oyo State command of the Nigeria Police to consider reducing the number of roadblocks mounted on highways by its operatives in order not to create apprehension in the minds of prospective Investors willing to do business in the state.

He made the appeal while hosting the newly deployed Assistant Inspector General of Police AIG Zone 11, Paul Odama who paid him a courtesy visit in his office at Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan. 

Governor Makinde commended the Oyo State Police Command under the leadership of CP Hamzat Adebola and the synergy among other sister security agencies in the state, which he said resulted in the state being one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria.

While pledging that the state government would extend its support to the Zone 11 Police Command, Governor Makinde noted that due to population, land mass, and land dimension, policing could be a huge task in the state, as he maintained that the state government would never relent in giving adequate support to the police to perform on its constitutional duties.

Earlier, the Assistant Inspector General, AIG Zone 11, Mr Paul Odama appreciated various unprecedented support the Oyo State Police Command had enjoyed under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, which included regular donation of security vehicles to the Oyo Police.

The Governor later led the AIG on inspection of Vehicles bought to beef up the state security network within the premises of the state Secretariat Agodi Ibadan

Lifestyle

Earthquake: Makinde Condoles with Moroccan Government

By Web News 494

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Government has expressed its condolences and sympathy to the government and people of Morocco over Friday’s earthquake, which has claimed about 2,800 lives and left thousands of others injured.

Governor ‘Seyi Makinde described the disaster as saddening, expressing the ‘solidarity of the people of Oyo State with the Moroccan Government at this trying period.

Governor Makinde prayed to God to grant repose to the souls of the deceased, while also wishing those injured a speedy recovery.

He said: “The Government and People of Oyo State stand in solidarity with the Government and People of Morocco at this trying period, following Friday’s earthquake that has left thousands dead and others injured”.

“We express our heartfelt condolences on the loss of close to 3,000 lives and our prayers for the injured are that they have a speedy recovery”.

“We equally commend the swift response of the Government towards rescue and provision of aids, while also praying for good speed for all agencies involved in rescuing victims.”

It would be recalled that the Africorp Consortium, a Moroccan business entity, had through its business interest in Nigeria, Mouka Foam Limited, expressed its intention to expand its business in Nigeria by establishing a factory in Oyo State.

A delegation of Africorp Consortium, led by its President, Mr. Saad S. Berrada, had paid a courtesy visit to the governor in May this year, during which Governor Makinde pledged the support of the government to the company.

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Education

Ensure adequate welfare of corps members – Oyo NYSC Coordinator

By Web News 954

By Dayo Adu

Corps employers have been urged to ensure adequate welfare of corps members posted to their establishments to cushion the effect of the current economic realities in their service to the nation.

The Oyo State coordinator of NYSC, Mr. Abel Oche made the call at the closing parade of 2023 Batch B, stream 2 orientation course at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp Iseyin.

Some members of the 2023 Batch B, Stream 2 orientation course during the Passing Out Parade.

Mr. Oche who explained that the current economic situation which had an overbearing impact on the living conditions of the people noted that, provision of welfare packages from establishments where corps members serve their one-year mandatory national service would boost their morale to perform optimally.

”Accept them with love, correct their mistakes, and commend them when necessary”, Mr. Oche.

Declaring the orientation course closed, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State charged the corps members deployed to the state to be committed to building a united, peaceful, prosperous, and egalitarian society.

The governor, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Mrs Olubukola Oladipo, urged corps members to play an active role in efforts to restore prosperity to the country.

“I want to implore you all to be productive. Put in your best, no matter how little or big it might be, for the transformation of your host communities.

“I also implore you to cultivate and maintain a healthy relationship with your host communities. Oyo State is a pacesetter state in all ramifications and our people are very hospitable and accommodating.”

Governor Makinde assured that the state government would be committed to the provisions of good security and adequate welfare for corps members, irrespective of the location of their primary assignment.

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News

Tension as Olaoye Family Kicks against Choice of New Soun

By Web News 1547

By Mathew Famakinde

There appears to be a new twist to the approval of Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye by the Oyo State Government as the new Soun of Ogbomoso land.

It would be recalled that over the weekend, Governor Seyi Makinde approved the selection of Prince Afolabi Olaoye as the new Soun-elect of Ogbomoso land.

However, in swift reaction to the approval, the family of Laoye, where the Soun-elect hails from, has appealed to the State government to rescind its decision.

While speaking with journalists at a news conference in Ogbomoso, the Laoye family head, Alhaji Garuba Tewogbola said though, Prince Afolabi is a member of the family, he was not recognized by many.

Alhaji Tewogbola noted that the matter of who occupies the Soun throne was also still pending in court for hearing. 

In his own reaction, the PRO of Laoye family, Prince Tajudeen Olapade said the kingmakers erred in their decisions, noting that they were surprised to hear the name of Prince Afolabi being announced as the new Soun of Ogbomoso land.

Our correspondent reports that the Laoye family members, who spread across Ogbomoso land were chanting they want a reversal of the decision of Oyo state government, calling on all the indigents of the Land to remain calm and watch the next step.

Meanwhile, a cross section of residents, who spoke with Radio Nigeria, maintained that they feel elated, not minding who ascends the throne.

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Economy

Oyo Govt. Fulfills Promise, Clears Non-statutory Deductions Arrears

By Web News 631

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Oyo State Government has cleared all the non-statutory deductions of civil servants in the state.

This is in fulfillment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s promise that their deduction arrears will be paid along with their August salaries.

In a release issued from the Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation and signed by the ministry’s commissioner, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the pledge by Governor Seyi Makinde in a state broadcast in the wake of the week-long protest by the state NLC, the government released over 1.3 billion naira as deductions and salaries for June, July, and August. 

With this development, workers who choose to continue making cooperative contributions will have to work with their unions as the state government will no longer be making any deductions from the source.

The commissioner recalled that to date, many states have not complied with the minimum wage and still owe civil servants many months’ backlog of statutory deductions while Oyo State had complied with minimum wage payment three years ago and has now cleared its deductions. 

The commissioner said Governor Seyi Makinde enjoys the support of the over 71,000 Oyo State civil servants because of his genuine love for their welfare.

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Transportation

Umahi Advocates Concrete Pavement Technology for Road Construction

By Web News 634

By Iyabo Adebisi

The Minister of Works, Mr David Umahi has advocated the use of newly introduced Concrete Pavement Technology, in road construction projects for its durability and cost effectiveness compared to asphalt roads.

He stated this while addressing journalists during an inspection tour of Abeokuta-Ibadan Road project. 

The minister is on two-day working visit to Oyo State to tour federal government road projects in the South West. 

The Minister of Works while making reference to the Abeokuta-Ibadan road project which commenced in 2010 said if government had built the route on concrete pavement, it would not have to re-construct it. 

Mr Umahi who expressed concern on the slow pace of work on Abeokuta-Ibadan road dualisation, commended the contractor handling it and the Oyo state government for maintaining the road. 

He said: “We are inspecting the rehabilitation of single lane of Abeokuta-Ibadan road. And that is phase one, phase two supposed to be the dualisation and that makes my expectations in terms of phasing the job. The road started in 2010 and it is starting with the Ibadan axis by Kopek Nigeria Limited”.

“As we can see, the entire shoulders have totaling gone. We have lots of failures on the roads but I must commend the contractors and I also commend the governor of Oyo State.  I can see a lot of maintenance on the road and this is exactly what we are talking about. If we have built this route on concrete Pavement,13 years ago, we will not be maintaining or re-constructing it. So, the section of Abeokuta in Ogun State has not been done by KOPEK because of funding”. 

“Now, what is to be done is that, a number of  sections of the pavement that have  totaling gone must be remedied and the entire stretch up to 77 per cent will need to be resurfaced by stone based asphalts and then, the shoulders restarted with concrete pavement”. 

“And of course the section of about 23 per cent on Abeokuta axis ought to be constructed. The delay in payment is very unpalatable for a project to last for 13 years and that is the kind of things we are having and that is the system we want to change“. 

Mr Umahi had earlier paid a courtesy call on Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to discuss on having standard federal roads in the state. 

During the visit, Governor Makinde noted that the present administration in Oyo State had fixed some federal roads that have viable economic importance to the state, adding that Ibadan-Iseyin road has been so useful for Agribusiness hubs across the zones of the state.

While appreciating the Federal Ministry of works for construction and rehabilitation of some major roads in the state, governor Makinde also disclosed that the State is considering the dualization of Ibadan- Abeokuta road from Iyaganku to Oyo/Ogun State border. 

The minister in an interview, on the refund of federal road executed by state government, said Federal government would not be able to refund money spent on federal roads by state governments presently considering the state of economic realities. 

Mr Umahi however, said that records of such road projects done by the states would be kept and could be revisited when the nation’s economy improved. 

Federal roads toured by the Minister includes rehabilitation of Ibadan-Oyo dual carriageway, dualisation of Oyo-Ogbomoso road, dualisation of Ibadan-Abeokuta and the reconstruction of Ibadan -Ife Ilesha. 

On the encourage of the Minister of Works were the Director High way, South-West, Adedamola Kuti, and the controllers of Works in the South-West states. 

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News

Help establish an Iseese Board – Traditionalists appeal to Makinde

By Web News 421

By Mosope Kehinde

In order to use the political will to establish and strengthen traditional religion, the Iseese traditionalists in Oyo State have appealed to the state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde to establish a board for the religious body.

They made the appeal during a thank you visit to the Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, in appreciation of the recently approved annual Iseese Day by the assembly.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the visit, the Araba Olu Iseese of Ibadan, Chief Ifalere Odegbola who spoke on behalf of the Araba-Oluawo of Oyo State, explained that the board when put in place would aid the governor’s aspirations on the culture and tourism sector of the state.

Chief Odegbola who expressed believe that the development would also boast the state’s international relations and Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, said the board would assist in regulating Iseese activities in Oyo State.

Also speaking, the Aare Isese of Oyo State, Chief Omikemi Egbelade said the purpose of the Iseese Day being celebrated on the 20th of August yearly was not only to promote cultural heritage but to ensure that cultural values among children and youths do not go into extinction.

He decried the situation where children have little or no knowledge about their family heritage, calling on parents, guardians and stakeholders to instill in their wards the importance of traditional history to national development.

Chief Odegbola and Chief Egbelade, however, commended Governor Seyi Makinde, the Speaker of the House, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin and the assembly members for their support at ensuring the annual Iseese Day saw the light of the day.

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Environment

Flood Update: Makinde Pledges Quick Intervention

By Web News 677

By Iyabo Adebisi

The Oyo State Government has  assured residents of the flooded areas affected during Sunday’s heavy rainfall in Ibadan of quick intervention, alternative routes and other palliative measures to ease their movement.

The state’s inspection team from the Ministries of Works, Environment, Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) paid an on-the-spot assessment to the sites of the collapsed bridges and roads at Olodo Garage, Ido and Akinyele in Ibadan, to have a proper assessment of the situation.

Speaking on behalf of the state government, the team leader and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Mrs. Modupe Adeleye, sympathised with the victims of the flood, stating that the government is aware of their plight and would take speedy action to allay their fears.

She said: “It is really pathetic actually, it is sad what we are seeing here this morning. We came here as a team comprising the Ministries of Environment, Public Works, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP), to see things for ourselves.

“There are palliatives that the government will put in place for now to allay the fears of the people. So, the team went round to look for alternative routes because this place (Olodo Bridge) needs to be shut down for now to prevent loss of lives and properties, because it is a very risky zone.

“The suggestion now is that we should shut down and look for alternative routes for people to do their businesses and so far, the best route that we found is about five (5) kilometers. It spans from Wofun Junction through Kute to Olodo Bank. That will be the alternative route where government will take as palliative measure for now,” she added.

Mrs Adeleye appealed to the residents to cooperate with the government, stating that government will expedite action both on the ongoing construction works and the palliative on the alternative routes.

She added that the State Emergency Management Agency would soon embark on enumeration of houses wrecked by the flood.

Mrs Adeleye who advised residents of the state to move away from flooded areas and stop building houses on setbacks and river banks, stressed that defiance to the warning posed danger to their lives and property.

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Politics

OYHA Receives List of Commissioner-Nominees from Governor

By Web News 539

By Mosope Kehinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has forwarded a list of 9 commissioner-nominees to the House of Assembly for screening and approval

The Deputy Speaker, Mr Muhammed Fadeyi, made this known while reading letter from the Executive requesting the screening of new commissioner nominees during plenary this morning, Friday, 21th July, 2023.

According to the letter as read by the Deputy Speaker who presided over the plenary, the list included: Mr Abiodun Akinkonmo, Mr Segun Olayiwola, Hon Wasiu Olatubosun, Prof Abdulwaheed Soliu, Mr Majeed Mogbojunbola, Bar Olasunkanmi Olaleye, Mr Williams Akinfunmilayo, Prince Dotun Oyelade and Mr Obafemi Ademola Ojo

The nominees are expected to appear before the lawmakers for screening on Tuesday, 25th of July, 2023

Earlier, governor Makinde had sent 7 nominees to the Assembly and the Commissioner-nominees have been screened by the lawmakers.

They are Mr Adeniyi Adebisi, Mr Akinola Ojo, Prof Musibau Babatunde, Prof Daud Sangodoyin, Bar Seun Ashamu, Alhaja Fausat Joke Sanni and Mrs Toyin Balogun

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Politics

Makinde Reappoints Owoseni, Sodo as Special Advisers

By Web News 425

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has approved the reappointments of retired Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni and former chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State chapter, Bayo Titilola-Sodo, as Special Advisers on Security and Labour Matters.

This is as the Governor reappointed a retired Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, Mr. Segun Adegoke, as the Special Adviser on Homeland Security.

Governor Makinde, according to a letter signed by his Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, equally approved the appointment of the immediate past Commissioner for Trades and Commerce, Chief Bayo Lawal, as Senior Executive Assistant on General Duties.

Other appointments approved by the governor are as follows:

Mr. Olatilewa Folami- Director-General, Oyo State Investment and Public Private Partnership (OYSIPA);

Mr. Elias Adeojo- Chairman, Water Corporation of Oyo State;

Mr. Olufemi Awakan- Chairman, Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue; and

Dr. Debo Akande- Executive Adviser, Agribusiness, International Cooperation and Development & Director-General, Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA).

The Governor charged the new appointees to see their appointments as further call to service and to discharge their duties with dedication and absolute loyalty to the State.

The appointments, according to the letter, are with immediate effect.

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Infrastructure

Makinde Promises Zero Pothole

By Web News 402

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has promised residents of immediate rehabilitation of all potholes on most roads in the State to improve vehicle movement and prevent road crashes 

He gave the assurance during an assessment visit to the State road maintenance agency (OYSROMA), Ibadan.

The governor explained that the recent downpour has increased the emergence of potholes on various roads hence the need to be proactive. 

Governor Makinde who expressed his commitment to giving adequate attention to rehabilitating inner city roads and other trunk C roads said  most potholes on various roads would disappear in line with his government’s policy on zero tolerance to potholes in a couple of weeks

Governor Makinde who warned the people to desist from dumping refuse in waterways and drainages, disclosed that he would work out modalities with the state Accountant General to release funds to the OYSOMA for the benefit of the people. 

The Governor who was accompanied by the Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi , senior management staff of OYROMA, inspected some of the agency’s facilities and technical workshops.

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News

Makinde Unveils Cabinet in 14 Days

By Web News 407

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says he will put his cabinet in place in the next two weeks, saying that names of other commissioner-nominees will be sent to the House of Assembly for screening and confirmation. 

The governor equally maintained that his administration will focus on tourism as one of the key sectors that would drive the state’s economy.

According to him, the government will decouple the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism as part of efforts to enhance the optimal performance of the existing ministries.

Governor Makinde, who gave these indications in his official Newsletter, dated 29th June, 2023, said that the Ministry of Information would now be headed by one commissioner, while another commissioner would head the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. 

The decoupling, he said, would bring the number of Ministries in the State to 18 as against the 17 that existed during the first tenure.

The governor equally noted that in line with his promise, the Light-Up Oyo streetlights, which went off for a few weeks, have now returned to being active.

He explained that the project will, for the time being, continue to use diesel generators until it will finally fall back on the ongoing tribrid power system, the 11MW Independent Power Project (IPP, which is ongoing) as the main source of power, with gas generators and inverters as a backup. 

The governor said: “For me, having sent the first batch of commissioner nominees to the Oyo State House of Assembly, I know I now have just about two weeks to send the names of the rest of the nominees and have my cabinet in place. 

“This promise will be kept just as all other promises we have made to the good people of Oyo State.

“You may have noticed that the street lights are coming back on as promised. We will continue to use the diesel generators to power the street lights for now so that our people can get the benefits of this infrastructure while we work on finally moving them to the tribrid power system – the 11MW Independent Power Project (IPP, which is ongoing) as the main source of power with gas generators and inverters as a backup. 

“One of the other things we are going to do is to ensure that all our ministries function optimally. As you already know, Tourism is one of the sectors that we will be focusing on during this tenure to drive our economy. 

“We will be decoupling the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. So, we will have the Ministry of Information headed by one commissioner, while another will head the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. 

“This means that under Omituntun 2.0, Oyo State will have 18 and not 17 commissioners. Some may think that we should be reducing rather than increasing the number of ministries, departments and agencies at this time in order to reduce the cost of governance. But, after due consideration, we believe that the benefits of these adjustments far outweigh the costs, and Oyo State will be the better for it. 

“With this, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism will be better able to oversee the Tourism Board and extract the value trapped in that agency, while the Commissioner for Information will focus on communicating the activities of government to the people through the various channels we have made available.”

Concluding, the governor said that the next few weeks would be exciting for governance in the State, adding that before the next edition of the newsletter, some commissioners would have been sworn-in, while the appointments of Executive Advisers, Executive Assistants, Special Advisers and Special Assistants would also have been made.

He, therefore, charged the residents to keep praying for the State and the entire country, saying he believes that “we will overcome the trying times with the ‘Nigerian can-do spirit and trust in God.”

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Infrastructure

Makinde Flags off Akobo-Olorunda Abaa Road

By Web News 1065

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has flagged off the dualization of 8.3km Akobo, Ojurin/Odogbo Barracks Olounda Abaa Junction at the sum of 9.6 billion naira.

Governor Makinde  equally named the road from the Idi-Ape axis to Olounda Abaa junction after the immediate past Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike

Flagging- off the project, Governor Makinde explained that 30 percent of the total cost has already been paid to the contractor handling the project.

He said the dualization of the road would improve the socioeconomic activities of the Lagelu Local Government and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

The governor who explained that the road project would affect some properties in the area however pledged prompt compensation to the affected property owners

Governor Makinde noted that the local government would be responsible for the funding but at the standard of the state promised the readiness of his administration doubles its efforts to support Local Government on more dividends of democracy under Omititun 2.0.

In a remark, the Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Mr Kazeem Gbadamosi stated that the road construction would ease the movement of goods and services and end the age-long hardship being experienced by residents of the area. 

The technical officer of the contractor handling the project, Hyginus  Okoro assured of a quality job and traffic management pending the completion of the road project.

The road would be completed within twelve months. 

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Politics

Abiodun Reappoints Tokunbo Talabi as SSG, Taiwo as DCS

By Web News 927

By Bolanle Adesida

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has approved the reappointment of Mr Tokunbo Talabi as the Secretary to the State Government, SSG.

A statement by the Permanent Secretary, State Ministry of Information, Mr Waheed Adesina indicates that Governor Abiodun also reappointed Dr Toyin Taiwo as Deputy Chief of Staff, DCS. 

The statement indicates that the appointments take immediate effect.

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Politics

Era of thuggery is gone – Makinde

By Web News 622

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Sunday, vowed to deal decisively with all the bad ones, no matter how highly placed in the society, in his second term.

He made this known during the thanksgiving church service held at Saint Peter’s Cathedral Church, Aremo in Ibadan, the state capital, in commemoration of his second-term victory.

Makinde, who also declared that the era of thuggery had gone in the state, vowed that the government would not tolerate any act of indiscipline, thuggery, and hooliganism that can disrupt the prevailing peace in the state.

The governor said, “On the issue of security, there cannot be development when there is no peace. During the election, no one can say that he was beaten or molested. I went to the parks and garages and told them that I would find a way to merge them together, but someone said that he cannot work with them.

“We cannot have two governors in the state. All the bad ones, we will deal with them. We are on top of the situation. You have given me the opportunity of second term. I thank you and God for giving me the opportunity to serve another term. I stand before you today to say that the second term will be better than the first term. I will serve the people to the best of my ability. I want the church to pray for me so that I can finish it strong.”

He also declared that his administration would no longer tolerate street trading and indiscriminate dumping of refuse on the roads, warning that whoever was caught would face the full wrath of the law.

Makinde said, “We need to upgrade our lifestyle, especially dumping of refuses on the median of roads, dumping of refuses at every junction and street trading because we want investors to come.

“If we want the state to rival Lagos State, then we have to change our lifestyle. Do not say that Makinde is wicked in this second term. We will provide an atmosphere to ensure that people comply.”

The Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese, Rt. Reverend Williams Aladekugbe, presided over the thanksgiving, also attended by the Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal, his wife, Ajibola Lawal, wife of former governor Rashidi Ladoja, Mutiat; the Speaker of state House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, the state Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima, Senator Gbenga Babalola and the immediate past Commissioner for Information, Wasiu Olatubosun.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Politics

Pray for Successful Second Term, Ogundoyin Urges Oyo Residents

By Web News 755

By Mosope  Kehinde 

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Adebo Ogundoyin has asked residents of the State to pray for the success of the second term of Governor Seyi Makinde. 

The Speaker in a congratulatory message to the Governor on his inauguration for another term in office, said Oyo residents must seek more divine grace for Governor Seyi Makinde as he steers the ship of the pacesetter state for another four years.

“Hearty congratulations to the people’s Governor, His Excellency Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde on the successful completion of four years of good governance and the beginning of another four years which is tagged Omituntun 2.0.  You have not only made us proud but you have also proved to be a good administrator and a democrat who meant well for the masses. 

“I therefore want to use this medium to appeal to the good people of Oyo State to constantly remember this administration in their prayers. This is important so that our Governor’s dream of consolidating on the lofty programmes which he started during his first term can come to fruition. The foundation for rapid development has already been laid across Oyo State and to me this was why our people renewed the mandate of the Governor to serve again. They knew continuity was key to sustainability”

Hon Adebo Ogundoyin assured the people of Oyo State that the PDP led administration in the State will not disappoint them.

“Governor Seyi Makinde will not disappoint the people of Oyo State. I can assure everyone that Omituntun 2.0 will focus more on people’s welfare, security, social amenities and rapid investment and economic growth.

“On our part as a very important arm of government, we shall not only give all necessary legislative support to the Executive arm of government, but shall equally put them on their toes for optimum and better service delivery. “Oyo Speaker said

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Politics

Makinde Pledges More Dividends of Democracy

By Web News 490

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo has assured people of the state of more dividends of democracy as he begins second term in Office on 29th May

He stated this while addressing the congregation at a special Jumat prayer held at Oja Oba Central Mosque to usher in the new administration. 

Governor Makinde, who spoke through the Deputy Governor, Chief Bayo Lawal, thanked the people of the state for their support during the first term in office. 

He solicited prayers from religious leaders to make Omituntun 2.0 a successful one. 

The Chief Imam of Ibadan, Alhaji Abdul Ganiyy Agbotomoke later led special prayers for a successful tenure of Governor Makinde and the progress of the state. 

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Security

Iganna Clash: Makinde Calls for Peaceful Coexistence

By Web News 836

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has urged residents of Iganna, Oke-Ogun axis of the state must learn to coexist peacefully.

The governor, who stated this when he visited Iganna town to assess the situation over a clash between some Fulani and Yoruba members of the community, said that his administration would not allow anyone to take laws into their hands.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, quoted the governor as telling the people to avoid reprisal attacks, adding that the law will take its course.

While speaking during an on-the-spot assessment of a Fulani settlement in Iganna, in Iwajowa Local Government, Governor Makinde said that his administration would provide amenities and ensure more government presence in the area.

He equally commended the swift response of the security agencies in the state for their quick response, adding that the situation would have gone out of control if they had not come out to intervene.

Governor Makinde appealed to residents of Iganna to embrace peace and stop the circle of violence.

He said: “Whether the people here in Iganna are Fulani or Yoruba, what has happened here is a needless waste of lives and property. No explanation can justify what has happened. What I am saying in essence is that the cycle must stop, and we must not, from this, go on reprisal and all of that. No”. 

“I can assure you that we will get to the bottom of this as justice will be done. We will also bring palliatives because coming all the way to this place has shown me that there must be more government presence in neighbourhoods like this. We will ensure that a few amenities from the government are brought into this neighbourhood so that they can be properly integrated into the Iganna community”.

“It could have been more than this if the security agencies did not step in almost immediately.”So, I am glad that Operation Burst, the Nigerian Police, Civil Defence, and Amotekun all rallied around and that is why we have the peace we are seeing at this point in time; otherwise, clashes would still have been going on”.

“We have to keep giving enlightenment to our people because the constitution of this country guarantees freedom of movement. As long as you obey the local laws, you can stay anywhere you like in this country. So, we have to learn to live with and tolerate ourselves and be law-abiding. You cannot take the law into your own hands.”

“If something has happened, report it to the police and let the authorities do their work. That is the crux of all of the problems we can see here. Somebody was attacked, but before reporting formally to the authority, you decided to have a reprisal attack. No, this must stop, as it has no place in Oyo State.”

Responding, the Sabigana of Iganan, Oba Azeez Oyemonla, commended Governor Makinde and security agencies for their quick response, saying that the incident was unfortunate.

Oba Oyemonla, therefore, called on the residents of Iganna to make room for a harmonious relationship with foreigners in the town.

A spokesman for the Fulani community, Seriki Mahmud Yusuf, who is the leader of the Seriki Fulani Youths in Oyo State, said the community was peace-loving and law-abiding, adding that the crisis was needless.

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Politics

Makinde to Appoint Permanent Secretaries Soon

By Web News 960

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said that he will soon appoint Permanent Secretaries to vacant positions in the state’s Civil service, following the advice of the retired Head of Service, Alhaja Amidat Ololade Agboola.


The governor, who stated this while speaking at the retirement and thanksgiving programme of the retired Head of Service held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan said that the ex-HoS was committed to workers’ welfare.


He also said that it was commendable that the outgone HoS did not recommend any staff for dismissal all through her four year tenure.


A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, further quoted the governor as saying that his administration will soon purchase official vehicles for serving Permanent Secretaries and Tutors-General in the state.


Governor Makinde who described Alhaja Ololade Agboola as a team player who contributed immensely to the success of his administration in the past four years, adding that she was so passionate about Service to the state.


While admitting that Alhaja Agboola was a member of his administration’s think tank, the governor noted that his government was successful in putting the right pegs in the right holes.


He also stated that since it came into office, his administration has refused to base its decisions on sentiments such as religion or region.


In a remarks , Alhaja Agboola thanked God and Governor Seyi Makinde for giving her the opportunity to serve the state as Head of Service, despite all odds.


She also commended the state government, Labour unions and other government functionaries, for providing a conducive atmosphere for her to thrive.


She pledged to continue her support for the Seyi Makinde- led administration.

The event was attended by the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, the state deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, former deputy governors of the state, the husband of the celebrant who is also the Chairman State Advisory Council, Senator Hosea Agboola, law makers, Commissioners, traditional rulers, among others.