Lifestyle

Earthquake: Makinde Condoles with Moroccan Government

By Web News 451

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 848

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 1488

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 531

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 535

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 353

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 642

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 485

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 389

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 371

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 359

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 955

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 796

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 567

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 675

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 420

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 760

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 904

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.

Agriculture

Oyo Govt. Boosts Food Production with Farm Assets Materials

By Web News 628

By Iyabo Adebisi

Beneficiaries of farm assets materials from the Oyo State government have lauded the Governor Seyi Makinde-led government for assisting them with needed materials that will enhance their food production.

The smallholder farmers in Ogo Oluwa and Afijio Local Government Areas of Oyo State, comprising genuine local farmers and the Nasarawa-trained Youth in Agribusiness Programme, YEAP gave the commendation while receiving farm assets materials from the state government.

Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with journalists in their separate remarks could not hide their feelings as they all commended the state government over the intervention project.

In Afijio Local Government Secretariat at Jobele, no fewer than ten poultry farmers went home with ten bags of feed for their birds, while 20 went home to their various homes with knapsack sprayers and farm protection kits.

Also, the Director of Agric of the local government in Ogo-Oluwa, Prince Bello Ajibola after the distribution of pumping machines, knapsack sprayers, and farm kits at Ogo Oluwa Local Government Secretariat, Ajawa, Ogbomoso, thanked Governor Makinde for the intervention.

Prince Ajibola said the beneficiaries should see the development as an avenue to do more for their immediate communities by providing more food for society.

The Oyo State Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus, (Oyo N-CARES) Project under Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) in the last few weeks have commenced the distribution of farm assets to farmers that were negatively affected by Covid-19 to mitigate the effect of the pandemic.

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Infrastructure

Makinde Pledges Completion of Ido-Eruwa Road This Year

By Web News 724

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde has assured the people of Ibarapaland that, Ido-Eruwa Road, linking the area to Ibadan, the state capital would be completed before the end of the year.

He made the declaration at the burial thanksgiving service of the matriarch of the Ogundoyin Family, Mrs Justina Ogundoyin, which took place at First Baptist Church, Anko, Eruwa.

He thanked the people of Ibarapaland for voting massively for his re-election, pledging that the project would not be delayed.

Governor Makinde also eulogised the late Mrs. Ogundoyin, who was the mother of the speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Debo Ogundoyin for living an impactful life, adding that it is not how long one lives but how well.

He admonished the Speaker and his siblings to have faith in God in spite of the passing of their mother.

The governor thereafter made a personal donation of N1 million to the Church.

 Speaking on behalf of his siblings, the Speaker Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde and the entire people of the state for standing by them throughout the funeral programme of their later mother.

Earlier in his sermon, the presiding Pastor, First Baptist Church Anko, Eruwa, Reverend, Michael Ayoola, who read from Philippines Chapter 4 verse 20, said that only Almighty God is worthy of praise in any situation.

He described late Mrs Ogundoyin as a highly dedicated personality who really sacrificed to serve the lord in his vineyard during her lifetime.

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Security

We will award, mobilise for Ojurin-Olorunda-Abaa Road before May 29 – Makinde

By Web News 347

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde says his administration will award the project for the construction of the 8.3 kilometres Ojurin-Olorunda-Abaa Road in Lagelu Local Government Area before the expiration of the first term of his administration.

The governor stated this while commissioning the Olorunda-Abaa Divisional Police Station built by the Agbaakin of Olorunda-Abaa, Oloye Benedict Akika.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, quoted the governor as explaining that the award of the contract will be in tandem with his administration’s commitment to continue working for the people of the state till the end of his first term in the office.

It will be recalled that the administration had earlier completed the first phase of the project on the Basorun-Idi Ape-Akobo-Ojurin axis as well as the General Gas Flyover.

Speaking during the commissioning of the Police Station, the governor said: “Let me use this opportunity to say thank you for your support on my re-election. You really spoke loud and clear not only on Oyo State but also on Nigeria.”

“My message is very clear; you know security is one of our major pillars. So, this Division Police Station is in line with that security leg of the roadmap. One very important thing is that the builder is not holding any political office; he is just a friend of this government. I want to thank him for giving back to his community from the little he has gotten from government.“

“Let me also appreciate the Commissioner of Police and the officers and men of the Oyo State Police Command as well as other security agencies. You did well for the people of Oyo State during the election and I pray that this country and state will acknowledge your efforts.”

Governor Makinde, who maintained that he was aware of the bad situation of the Ojurin-Olorunda Road, said the project would be awarded and mobilize the contractor to the site in a few weeks.

“On my way here, I observed the bad situation on the road. We have done the construction from Idi-Ape to Akobo Ojurin, and the next phase is the 8.3km, which will cover from Ojurin to here in Olorunda-Abaa.” 

In a remark, the donor of Olorunda-Abaa Divisional Police Station, Oloye Akika while thanking God for making him actualise his dream of building a police station for his community appreciated Governor Makinde for his support towards the project. 

He added that he built the station because he was after the security of the people in the community as well as to contribute to the governor’s efforts in the area of security.

Similarly, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State, Mr Adebowale Williams, commended the donor, noting that his effort is in tune with Governor Makinde’s body language, which is zero tolerance for crime.

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News

FG to Adopt ICT for 2023 Census

By Web News 422

The Director-General, National Orientation Agency, Dr Garba Abari, says the 2023 National Population and Housing Census will be conducted digitally to ensure credibility and efficiency.

He made this known when he featured on a programme in Abuja on Sunday.

Abari, who is a member of the National Publicity and Advocacy Committee on Census, said the exercise would be facilitated by the use of digital technology, contrary to previous census conducted in the country.

He said, ‘’This is one census that is going to be different from previous ones. To enhance the credibility of the exercise, this census is going to be digital.

‘’In the house listing and numbering, the National Population Commission has perfected the space and got the point much beyond what google has done in the mapping.

‘’In terms of specificity and the correctness of the capture of every house and hamlet in Nigeria, the NPC has gone far beyond what google has done.

‘’We may not say that we are absolutely 100 per cent correct, but 99 per cent of all houses, structures within the enclave of Nigeria’s territory have been captured digitally, far beyond what google can provide in terms of specificity.’’

The NOA boss explained that the digitisation of the exercise would enhance credibility, ensure accurate data and respond to modern technology, in line with global practice.

He said, ‘’Digitalisation will enhance the credibility because there is a common template for

the exercise and that is all that will be sent to the cloud.”

He said previous census exercise was looked at from the prism of one region was larger than the other; one state was bigger than another, one local government was bigger than another, and one senatorial district was bigger than another.

‘’And in the process, you miss out the most important element of the programme, which is getting sufficient data for planning.”

He said the 2023 census would be a scientific census, a digital census that would respond to the reality of today, respond to the information and technological revolution; a census aimed at bringing in credible, acceptable, open and transparent force.

Culled / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Security

Makinde to Nigerian Army; Remain Professional During Elections

By Web News 623

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has called on the Nigerian Army to continue to remain professional before, during and after the coming elections.

The governor stated this when he hosted the new General Officer Commanding, 2 Mechanised Division, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, Major-General Takuti Usman at the Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor, who pledged the continuous support of his administration to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the state, commended them for the maintenance of peace and order in Oyo State.

The governor lauded the Army for the important roles it has been playing in ensuring peaceful polls in the country, urging the Army to play its part and ensure that the elections are free and fair and that the votes of Oyo State people count.

Governor Makinde promised to maintain a cordial relationship with the new GOC.

He equally assured that his government would not relent in its efforts at providing adequate logistic support to the Division for its smooth operation in the area of security of lives and property.

He said: “Oyo State has been calm security-wise and I will like to use this opportunity to say thank you to the officers and men of Operation Burst and their DG because we used to have crime and criminalities around December and we were all apprehensive but they stood up to the challenge. 

“When the Lagos-Ibadan expressway kidnapping became an issue, they also came up with other sister security agencies. They devoted the time and energy needed to quickly nip that in the bud, and the area now is well-dominated by the security agencies led by Operation Burst. So, I am happy that it is one of the major areas that you are paying attention to.

Earlier, the GOC, Major-General Takuti Usman, sought the Governor’s support in order to make the Division achieve the maintenance of peace and harmony in the state.

He assured the Governor of the readiness of his Division to continue to participate fully in creating an enabling environment for the government, so that it could continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

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Education

Oyo Government Inaugurates Committees for Emmanuel Alayande University of Education

By Web News 880

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has inaugurated the Implementation and Secretariat Committees for the newly established Emmanuel Alayande University of Education.

The two committees were inaugurated at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan with the mandate to lay a strong foundation for the smooth and effective take-off of the new institution.

Inaugurating the committee, Governor Makinde pledged to leave a legacy of sound and qualitative education with the people.

He said the new university of education would soon become a topmost institution in Nigeria for the acquisition of degrees in the field of education.

The governor who is optimistic that the committees are up to the task to deliver their responsibilities urged them to develop a pathway for the institution to realize its objectives.

On the issue of staffers of the old institution, Governor Makinde assured that his administration would look at the existing structure to factor them in, promising that the review would be a win-win situation for the parties involved.

In a remark, the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, Professor Omole Ayodeji appreciated the governor for the opportunity to serve the state, adding that the committees would discharge their duties with courage and integrity.

The Implementation Committee for the newly established Emmanuel Alayande University of Education is headed by the Pro-Chancellor of LAUTECH, Professor Ayodeji Omole while the Secretariat Committee is led by Professor Adelaja Adekoya.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Politics

Akinyele to Become Richest LG in 5-10 Years – Makinde

By Web News 615

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has declared that the next five years will bring about a huge transformation in the fortunes of Akinyele Local Government Area in the state.

The governor declared that this would come to pass because of the various landmark projects and infrastructure being put up in the area.

Governor Makinde, who stated this while campaigning across the council, maintained that ongoing projects such as the Inland Dry Port, the African Development Bank’s Agro-processing Zone, the Oyo State government-initiated Ilutuntun City as well as the multifarious infrastructure projects put in place by his administration, will make Akinyele the richest local government in the state within the next five to 10 years.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary, CPS to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, on behalf of the Seyi Makinde 2023 Campaign Media Team, quoted the governor as noting that lands will become gold in Akinyele Local Government, warning traditional rulers to avoid the indiscriminate sale of lands.

The governor, who met with the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, at the First Baptist Church, Alade, Moniya; the League of Imams, Akinyele Local Government at the Central Mosque Moniya and the traditional worshippers at the Isese Temple, Moniya, urged the religious leaders to support the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidates in National Assembly, State Assembly and governorship elections.

Speaking with traditional rulers in the council, during a meeting held at the Award Hall, Akinyele Local Government Secretariat, Moniya, the governor declared that he will be ready to approve any internal reform on chieftaincy issues so far such reforms emanated from the Olubadan-in-Council.

He equally promised to review the 5 per cent allocation to traditional rulers in the state, saying that he will never work against the interest of the traditional institution.

Iyabo Adebisi

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