Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has condoled with the Senator representing Oyo Central Senatorial District, Oloye Teslim Folarin on the death of his wife, Angela Nwaka Folarin, describing it as a sad loss.
The governor who described the late lawyer as an exemplar and proof that women, indeed, play huge roles in the success of their husbands, especially in politics, prayed to God to give Senator Folarin the fortitude and the strength to bear the loss.
A statement by the Special Assistant (Print Media) to the governor, Moses Alao, quotes Governor Makinde as describing Mrs Angela Folarin as a strong woman, who showed good courage and example to other women whose husbands are in politics.
He commiserated with all members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state and the Igbo community as well as members of the Oyo State Caucus in the National Assembly, praying to God to protect the family she left behind.
“I received with sadness the news of the sudden demise of Barr. (Mrs) Angela Folarin, wife of my brother, Oloye Teslim Folarin, the Senator representing Oyo Central.”
“This death is a sad loss to us in Oyo State, because Mrs Folarin was a symbol of courage and a great example for wives of politicians, as she stood by her spouse and gave courage to other women.”
“I commiserate with her husband and the family, the Igbo Community in Oyo State and members of the Oyo State Caucus in the National Assembly.”
“I pray that Lord grants repose to her soul and give everyone she left behind the fortitude to bear this loss.”
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has commissioned the dualised 9.7kilometres Oke-Ogun Poly-Saki Township/Ilesha Ibaruba Road.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State who was the special guest of honour at the event commended Makinde for delivering such a massive road project, among many others, despite economic challenges in the country.
He congratulated Governor Makinde for standing firm with his people, saying that the governor is living up to the expectations of the people.
“He is someone in a hurry to change the fortune of his people for good. I must confess that the quantum of projects I have seen in Oyo State have forced my belief in him and increased my respect for him. The APFA initiative for the urban renewal campaign, which he has initiated, is manifesting multiple road infrastructure.”
“I have also seen the wonders he has performed in other key sectors of health, education, rural infrastructure, trade and Commerce. I can confirm that this can only be achieved in a PDP state.”
(From left, Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi, Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Debo Ogundoyin; Adamawa State Governor, Alhaji Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde and his deputy, Rauf Olaniyan during the commissioning of Saki township 9.7 km road, Saki) PHOTO: Oyo State Government
Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony held at the Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki, Governor Makinde maintained that the Saki Township road project would enhance the socio-economic development of the state and play a major role in engineering a modern Oyo State.
He added that his administration Would not play politics with the development of Oyo State, noting that his administration will continue to take development beyond Ibadan, the capital of the state.
(From right, Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Rauf Olaniyan; Governor, Seyi Makinde; Adamawa State Governor, Alhaji Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri; Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Debo Ogundoyin; Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Olabisi and Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao during the commissioning of Saki township 9.7km road, Saki) PHOTO: Oyo State Government.
The governor revealed that the state was able to save over one billion naira from the initial contract awarded by the previous administration, adding that the state would continue to maintain zero tolerance for wastage.
“I am glad to see the happy faces here today and what are we celebrating here? We are celebrating accelerated development because everywhere a strategic road goes, development follows immediately. “History has it that the first road for motorised vehicles in Nigeria was built here in Oyo State in 1906, and the road links Ibadan to Oyo town.”
It was useful for transporting agricultural products from Oyo to Ibadan and from there to the Port for export. So, this is why I am excited about this linkage we are creating here in the Oke-Ogun zone.
“Oke-Ogun is our bread basket and agricultural arbiter and that is why we returned OYSADA to Saki Township. “So, linking Oke-Ogun up to the rest of the zones means we can easily move our clothing for export either by air through our airport or by sea through the dry port at Moniya. Since we fixed the Moniya road, we have been able to cut the travel time from Saki to Ibadan to almost two and a half hours as against the former five hours. “We know we have to take development beyond the state capital as we cannot afford to continue in the trajectory where one part of the state is generating the revenue that all the other parts of the state benefit from. “This will only create another Nigerian situation in Oyo State. So, it is time to diversify and a proper good linkage is the first step in the diversification process.”
“We will continue to make Oyo State the proof that good governance is possible in Nigeria. We are kick-starting an infrastructural revolution that will make people say, once again, that they are proud of our state.”
“On the request made by both the Chief Judge and Kabiyesi the Okere of Saki, we will extend the road by another 1.2 kilometres.”
The people of Oyo Town and the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State has shown appreciation to the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for taking up the initiative of reconstructing the Oyo-Iseyin federal road after decades of abandonment.
This is as the 72-year-old Odo-Ogun bridge that residents and motorists claimed had caused the death of hundreds of people is undergoing extension and reconstruction.
The bridge which was hitherto very narrow had lost most of the iron railings and barrier concretes which caused vehicles that lost their brake system to plunge into the river, where there are many rocks and has led to the death of numerous passengers.
While talking with reporters at the site of the bridge extension, some of the people of Odo Ogun village, which is a stone throw to the river said they heaved a sigh of relief as the extension work started late last year, because they were sure that the carnage they used to witness before the intervention of the Oyo State government on the road and particularly the bridge, would be no more.
Parts of what the Oke-Ogun people described as commendable in the urbanization projects of the Seyi Makinde-led administration is the Saki Township Road that the governor will commission on Thursday at Saki West Local Government.
The member representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency at the Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, Mr Dele Adeola in an interview at the site inspection, said Governor Makinde was out to make life easy, especially for the people in the hinterlands, as farmers and traders in the Oke-Ogun region can now connect the cities through various linking roads that have been constructed or reconstructed by the present administration.
“We can see that Governor Makinde has promised to stand by the people of Oyo State and make them enjoy governance and he is delivering as promised, the Oyo-Iseyin road is another episode in this line. We have toiled day and night to attract the attention of the federal government to the deplorable state of the road for over twenty years to no avail, we appreciate our governor.”
Oyo state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has reiterated that his administration would not relent in using the common wealth of the state for the common good of all across various regions in the state
He stated this when the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Adekunle Abdulganiy, led Iseyin indigenes to the governor’s office, state Secretariat, Ibadan to stage a “thank you” rally.
Addressing the Iseyin indigenes, Governor Makinde said the visit would inspire him to work more for the growth and development across all zones of the state with a determination to leave the state better than he met it
Governor Makinde equally noted that his administration bore in mind the need to give attention to the Ado Awaye suspended lake, the Ikere Gorge Dam and other infrastructure that would attract investment into the state.
Earlier, National President, Iseyin Development Union, Mr. Bayo Raji said the people of Iseyin were full of thanks for ‘various monumental projects’ such as the Iseyin-Moniya Road, the siting of LAUTECH College of Agriculture and Renewable Resources in Iseyin, On-going Iseyin-Oyo Road reconstruction, construction of the Iseyin- Fapote-Ogbomoso road, Saki Ogbooro-Igboho road and street light electrification within Iseyin amongst others.
Also speaking, an Iseyin indigene, Senator Gbenga Babalola said Makinde stood out by running his administration on the principle of fairness.
He also conveyed the approval of the Aseyin-in-council to confer on Makinde the title of Aare Atunluto of Iseyin and Yeye Aare Atunluto of Iseyin on his wife, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde.
The national leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has paid a condolence visit to the Oyo State governor over the demise of two prominent monarchs and a former governor of Oyo State, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala.
Asiwaju Tinubu led his political associates to the Agodi Government House, Ibadan on the condolence visit.
Speaking at the government’s house, Agodi, Ibadan, Asiwaju Tinubu said it has become imperative for him to commiserate with Oyo State, having lost two of its traditional rulers and a former governor, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala.
The former governor of Lagos State said the reigns of the two first-class Obas were peaceful.
Asiwaju Tinubu explained that the late Governor Alao-Akala contributed immensely to the political development and the love radiating within the political arena in the state.
The APC stalwart also lauded Governor Makinde’s leadership style pointing out that he had demonstrated good character in his dealings.
Responding, Governor Seyi Makinde while appreciating the visit said Asiwaju Tinubu stood for politics without bitterness.
Governor Makinde equally wished the former governor well in his political aspirations.
Asiwaju Tinubu also visited the palaces of the Olubadan of Ibadan and Soun of Ogbomoso where he sympathised with the families of the late monarchs.
He also visited the Randa residence of the former governor, late Adebayo Alao-Akala.
Gomina Makinde fidi isele iku gomina teleri Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala mule.
Gomina teleri nipinle Oyo, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala ti jade laaye looro oni nilu Ogbomosho tise ilu abinibi re.
Eni to so iroyin di mimo foniroyin ile-isewa, amo tiko fe kiwon daruko oun, sapejuwe iku gomina teleri naa gege bi adanu nla.
Otunba Alao-Akala to je eekan-kan ninu egbe oselu apc, lo je gomina ipinle Oyo laarin odun 2007 sodun 2011.
Nigba ton fidi isele iku Otunba Alao-Akala mule, Gomina Ipinle Oyo, Onimoero Seyi Makinde ti ko le soro nibi isin alajumose eyi tawon osise oba nipinle oyo gbekale fodun tuntun yii, kede didake iseju kan fun Gomina ana to doloogbe ohun, ti Gomina Makinde si pari eto isin alajumose ohun sibe, tawon osise naa si pada se nu ise koowa won pelu irewesi okan.
Nigba ton naa fidi isele iku mule, igbakeji oludari feto iroyin fun gomina teleri naa, Tolu Mustapha sope, kii se aiisan lo pa Otunba Alao-Akala.
Eni odun mokanle-laadorin loloogbe Alao-Akala jade laye.
As controversy continues to trail the next Olubadan,Governor Seyi Makinde has laid the insinuations to rest declaring that Ibadan traditional institution must be reverted to its original concept.
He stated this at the Popoyemoja,Ibadan residence of the late Olubadan of Ibadan,Ona Solid Adetunji when he led government delegation to commiserate with the family of the deceased and the indigenes of the famous city.
Governor Makinde who maintained that Ibadan chieftaincy is very transparent said this would be the last time such controversy would occurred on the highly revered Ibadan stool.
The governor therefore assured all Ibadan indigenes and friends of the city that his government would support what the late Olubadan stood for on the traditional institution.
Makinde said: “This is the last time such controversy on who will succeed any late Olubadan and who is not ripe for the throne will ever surface.” “And as a government, I am giving you the
assurance to all indigenes and residents of Ibadan that what our late monarch stood for in his lifetime is what I will enforce.”
“Whoever is willing can key into it, I know Baba is watching us and he will give us support to do what is right and acceptable to preserve the integrity and the sanctity of Ibadan Traditional Institution.”
“The issue of traditional institution in Ibadan is not contradictory. Baba stood for truth.
If not for Baba’s outspokenness, he wouldn’t have stood his ground to confront the immediate-past government on going against the known Olubadan tradition.”
“Power is not easy to manage, but Baba looked at power in the face and spoke the truth on the traditional institution of Ibadanlandand. That’s what led to this crisis.”
“Eventhough, Baba is no more, but what he stood for will still be with us. The history of Ibadan is incomplete without acknowledging what Baba stood on and fought for.”
Governor Makinde who extolled the virtues of honesty and friendliness of late Oba Adetunji said the monarch would be accorded a royal and befitting burial.
Speaking on behalf of the family,the eldest son of the foremost traditional ruler,Dr Raheem Adetunji appreciated governor Makinde for the visit.
Since the demise of late Olubadan,Oba Soliu Adetunji the Ibadan succession process had been subjected to controversy following the reforms instituted by the last administration of late Abiola Ajimobi.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has expressed his condolence to his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde and the entire people of Ibadan over the demise of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Kunle Somorin, Governor Abiodun described Olubadan’s death as a great loss not only to Ibadanland, but Yorubaland in general.
He said Oba Adetunji was an embodiment of peace whose reign witnessed great development across Ibadan land.
Governor Abiodun further noted that the late monarch used his wealth and wisdom to promote unity while on the throne, adding that the monarch would be sorely missed.
While urging the people of Ibadanland to take solace in the fact that the late monarch’s reign was peaceful and progressive, the governor prayed that Allah would grant Oba Adetunji Aljanah Firdaus.
Osun State Governor, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola has joined Governor Seyi Makinde, government and people of Oyo State in mourning the demise of Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso 1, who died early Sunday morning.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, the governor offered condolences to the royal family, Olubadan-in-Council and all Ibadan indigenes at home and abroad.
He said the demise of the first class traditional ruler which came on the heels of the passage of Soun of Ogbomoso, is another colossal loss to Yorubaland, noting that Olubadan’s death had left a deep void that would be difficult to fill.
The governor described the late monarch as a respected royal father, exemplary and compassionate leader who showed strong concern and commitment to the welfare of his subjects and the development of Ibadan during his reign.
Governor Oyetola prayed to Allah to forgive the late traditional ruler and grant his immediate family, Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Ibadan the fortitude to bear the loss.
As the world celebrate Christmas, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called on residents of the state on witnessing this year’s Christmas festivity, urging them to continue to live in love and harmony.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa quotes the governor as saying Christmas presents to the world an opportunity to evaluate the lessons of peace, love and sacrificial living, which Jesus Christ taught through his life.
According to the governor, residents of Oyo State must celebrate the Yuletide with caution, observe necessary precautions such as proper sanitisation, use of nose covers and maintenance of social distancing, in order to keep the COVID-19 virus at bay.
Governor Makinde equally charged the residents of the state to adhere strictly to COVID-19 protocol and stay safe amid rising cases of the virus in the country.
He called on Christians and adherents of all other religions in the state to always be at peace and to demonstrate love and brotherliness, stating that development and progress can only take place in an atmosphere of love and tranquility.
“As we celebrate Christmas, I celebrate with all residents of the state.”
“The Christmas festivity presents us all with an opportunity to relive the lessons of love, peace and sacrificial living that Christ taught with his life.”
“It is an opportunity to celebrate and make merry but we must also imbibe the lessons of love and harmonious co-existence.”
“As a state government, we will continue to do everything possible to continue to uplift the state. But we can only do so with the support of our people.”
The governor also advocated for moderation by residents of the state during the Christmas celebrations, urging them to be security-conscious and to stay safe.
“While rejoicing with Oyo State residents, I advise them to do everything in moderation, as the times we are in demand that we remain security-conscious and observe all necessary protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
“Security is the responsibility of all and sundry, so all residents must be observant and report any untoward movements in their environments. The 615 Security Emergency Number is working in Oyo State, please report any suspicion regarding security.”
The chief press secretary to the Oyo state governor Mr Taiwo Adisa has said that politics is about doing the will of the masses in terms of making them enjoy the dividends of government.
He said any responsible government must do what pleases the masses by providing them with basic infrastructural facilities.
Mr Adisa said this at his political ward, Ologbo ward 7, Ogbomoso South Oyo state.
He said that the government of Governor Seyi Makinde administration was leaving no stone unturned to ensure that every citizen of Oyo state enjoyed dividend of democracy, while expanding economic situation of Oyo state.
Speaking further on various developmental achievements in the state, Mr Adisa maintained that Lautech would soon become a conventional university where various courses would be offered.
Mr Taiwo Adisa urged people at Ologbo ward to cooperate with the present Government in the state to achieve its aims.
Twelve football clubs will tomorrow begin hostilities at the second edition of Governor Seyi Makinde Pre Season Tourney at Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
According to a statement by the State Secretary, Oyo State Football Association, Mr. Kehinde Ojelowo and signed by the Chairman, Oyo State F. A, Oba James Odeniran shortly after the draws held in Ibadan, Young Stars FC will battle Corner Stone FC at the opening match while Ilaji FC will lock horns with Pace Setters FC in the second match.
The last match of day one of the tournament will be between Ogbomosho United and Oke Ogun Football Club.
On Friday, shooting stars sports club of Ibadan will trade tackles with Corner Stone FC before Oke Ogun and Oyo United rekindle their rivalry.
Various speakers at the draws commended Governor Seyi Makinde for giving approval to the football tournament, which they said would further develop football teams at the grassroots
Shooting Stars sports club of Ibadan won the maiden edition of Governor Seyi Makinde Pre Season Tournament.
Chairman Governing Council Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Professor Deji Omole on Sunday stated that Governor Seyi Makinde led government is set to pay Osun State Government another 1billion Naira on or before first week of December to make a total of two Billion Naira out of the 8billion contained in the asset sharing agreement.
Professor Omole also stated that Governor Seyi Makinde has also released the sum of 500million Naira to LAUTECH as grant for the smooth take-off of the college of Agricultural Sciences and Renewable Natural Resources in Iseyin Campus of the University.
In a one year anniversary pronouncement of the sole ownership of LAUTECH and Six months of the inauguration the Governing Council of the Institution, Professor Omole stated that Governor Makinde has paid five out of eight months salaries owed workers of the institution before taking over the sole ownership of the institution envisaging that the balance would be cleared in the next six months.
Oyo state became the sole owner of LAUTECH on November 20, 2021 following agreement reached between the defunct owners of LAUTECH: Oyo and Osun States.
“Oyo state had already paid one billion naira to Osun State and airmarked another one billion to be paid on or before the first week of December, 2021. Oyo State has liquidated five out of the eight months salary arrears being owned workers of the University. In addition the Oyo State government had released the sum.of 500million naira to the institution has take off grant for the smooth running of the school. Indeed the capital expenditure for infrastructure development of the school has been budgeted for in the 2022 appropriation Bill. This is happening for the first time in the history of the institution.”
Furthermore, Omole added that the 25%percent reduction in fees for students in the school as announced by Governor Seyi Makinde will take effect from the 2022 session urging students to reciprocate the gesture by staying focused as shunning anti-social behaviours.
The Chairman of the LAUTECH Council further hinted that the Council has been monitoring the finances of the University Transparently to ensure prudent management of resources and reporting same to the visitor which is Governor Seyi Makinde.
According to him, the investment of Governor Makinde is already positioning LAUTECH as choice institution for those seeking admission as 11, 300 candidates are to write post JAMB examination as against 5, 000 in the 2017/2018 session.
In the area of training and manpower development, Professor Omole stated that a staff audit has been carried out to ascertain the manpower needs of LAUTECH.
“We are hoping to inject new blood because LAUTECH is top heavy and this does not give room for mentorship and successor plan. We have done staff audit. We have also established collaboration with University of Botswana and Oyo state government has resolved to patronise them for consultancy”
While saying the last one year of sole ownership has shown a promising future, Professor Omole appeals to staff of the institution to be patient with the government in its effort towards repositioning it and entrenching it as center of excellence.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has called on citizens to pray for the healing and cleansing of Nigeria.
Evangelist Daniel Kolenda preaching during CFAN’s Ibadan Crusade 2021
Governor Makinde who was speaking at the close of a four-day crusade by Evangelist Daniel Kolenda also stated that the state was blessed to have hosted the four-day event without a hitch.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicates that the crusade was hosted by the Christ for All Nations Ministries, headed by Evangelist Kolenda.
The governor while speaking at the Crusade, held at the Arcedem Ground, Iwo Road, Ibadan, said that it was about time the people began to pray for the healing and cleansing of the country.
Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Sunday, mourned the passage of the Onigbeti of Igbeti in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of the State, Oba Emmanuel Oyebisi, Afasegbejo III, stating that his death has left a vacuum in the state.
Makinde described the late traditional ruler as a good and peace-loving leader, who worked hard for the development of his domain and the progress of his subjects.
A statement by the Special Assistant (Print Media) to the governor, Moses Alao, quoted him as commiserating with the Igbeti Community, the Oyo State Traditional Council and the immediate family of the deceased royal father.
He said: “I condole with the entire Igbeti Community of Olorunsogo Local Government Area of the State on the demise of the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Emmanuel Oyekan Oyebisi.“I equally commiserate with the Oyo State Traditional Council and friends, families and well-wishers of the late royal father.“I have had many encounters with the late Oba Oyebisi, beginning from the pre-2015 general election days while seeking the governorship seat.“
The late Kabiyesi was a great leader and a peace-loving ruler. His love for the development of Igbeti and Oyo State in general is unprecedented and he never missed an opportunity to make this clear.“Surely, Oba Oyebisi’s death has left a huge vacuum in Olorunsogo Local Government and among the traditional council in the state.“It is my prayer that God grants repose to his soul and uphold the community and the family he left behind.”SignedMoses AlaoSpecial Assistant (Print Media) to Governor ‘Seyi MakindeNovember 7, 2021.
The federal government has expressed determination to recapture all escapees from the Medium Security Custodial centre, Abolongo dead or alive.
Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola stated this during an inspection visit to the Custodial Centre that was recently attacked.
Our correspondent who was there reports that the Oyo State governor Engineer Seyi Makinde and the Alaafin of Oyo also visited the scene.
Mr. Aregbesola who described as barbaric the trend of jailbreak in recent times said the government would fortify its security apparatus to prevent it from being overpowered by bandits.
The minister said the attack was obviously premeditated and coordinated to make Nigeria unsafe and ridicule the government, noting that the government would not fold its hands to allow a recurrence.
Mr. Aregbesola also cautioned the public not to render any assistance to any of the fleeing inmates, saying such was punishable under the law.
“Last year, we had an unfortunate case of an escaped convict that went to kill those who served as witnesses in the case against him, before he was later arrested. Of course, he would serve the remainder of his term and go for fresh trial for escaping from lawful custody and the murder of the witnesses. But the harm had been done. Thanks to those who made it possible for him to escape from custody ab initio”.
“We responded to the attacks by retraining our officers and increasing the number of armed personnel in our facilities. But Kabba again proved a different kettle of fish with the sheer number of the invaders and the sophistication of their arms and incendiary devices they brought”.
“Again, the Oyo attack came out of the ordinary. Nothing absolutely suggests that any such attack could happen or be possible, given the security measures we have put in place”.
“Let me assure Nigerians of their safety of lives and property”.
“Our custodial facilities are safe and we are putting extra safety measures in place, in light of the observed pattern of the external attacks we have seen, to prevent any such occurrence in the future”.
“This matter is being investigated and we shall leave no stone unturned to get to the root of the matter – the remote and immediate causes and the vulnerability of our system and personnel if any”.
“There shall not be a repeat of our guards being overwhelmed again. This is an anomaly that should never repeat itself. The Federal Republic of Nigeria cannot be overwhelmed. Our guards will give whatever it takes, never to be overwhelmed again”.
“We are going after every single inmate that escaped from custody. We shall hunt them to the ends of the earth. All the security agencies in the country are on their trail. We shall not rest or tire until we bring the last one in, dead or alive” he said.
While imploring the public to supply security agencies with useful information, Mr. Aregbesola gave an assurance that the federal government would handsomely reward such a gesture.
“I am assuring Nigerians that there is no hiding place for an inmate that escaped from our facilities. This is because we have the records of all the inmates, including their biometric data, which are being forwarded to Interpol, making it impossible for them to travel, apply for any travel document, engage in any financial transaction or present themselves at any border post, in any country in the world. They are fugitives and will remain on the run until we apprehend them. And we shall surely apprehend them”.
The Federal Government, however, out of magnanimity, is giving them a small window to voluntarily turn themselves in, for which they will be pardoned for escaping from custody.
“On behalf of the Federal Government, I am offering my deepest condolences to the families of the victims of the Friday attack”, Aregbesola added.
Reacting to some claims that some high profile inmates had escaped, Deputy Controller General Operations, Nigerian Correctional Service, Tukur Ahmed disclosed that Wakeel Iskilu, a suspected kidnapped kingpin terrorising the Ibarapa area and a serial killer, Sunday Shodipe were not in Abolongo.
Earlier, Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde who expressed sadness on the jailbreak directed immediate installation of Closed Circuit Television cameras and immediate grading of the roads leading to the facility.
On his part, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi commiserated with the relatives of those who lost their lives to the attack, urging the government to provide more security for correctional facilities across the country.
The correctional facility was attacked on Friday creating room for about nine hundred inmates to escape out of which three hundred and seventy-eight have been recaptured.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has ordered the immediate installation of CCTV cameras and grading of the road that leads to the Abolongo Custodial Centre in Oyo Town.
Governor Makinde gave the directive during his inspection of the facility.
He assured the prison officers that the government will do everything possible to ensure that more security is provided.
Meanwhile, the governor who said contrary to rumours making the rounds that high profile criminals escaped during the attack noted that although the correctional centre indeed housed a number of them those being insinuated were not among the escapees.
The governor implored people to remain calm saying problems of insurgency and banditry could only be addressed if the society enjoyed mutual confidence.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has called for calm over the jailbreak at the Abolongo Correctional Facility.
Governor Makinde in a statewide broadcast aired on the state’s television service stated that all security agencies have been put on high alert and that the government would do everything to protect its citizens and all state and national assets.
The governor noted government has directed the security agencies to deploy personnel to critical national assets within the state and to monitor all entrances and exit points.
He urged all residents of the state to be watchful and to call the Security Emergency Number, 615 in case they notice any untoward movement of persons or development.
The governor commiserated with the families of the two slain security agents, a corporal of the Nigerian Army attached to Operation Burst, and an Operative of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps.
He noted that he had earlier visited another Amotekun Corps, Shukurat Omoba who was injured in the attack and in critical condition at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.
“I have visited her at the hospital, and we are deploying all state resources to ensure that she survives this”.
“Please, let us all join hands in prayer for her speedy and complete recovery”.
“Although some inmates have been recovered and taken back into custody, some are still at large. All security agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure that all that escaped are rearrested and returned to custody”.
“I am, therefore, using this opportunity also to put the citizens on alert. There is no better time to repeat the call to action: if you see something, please say something. These criminals would want to go to areas where they will not be easily rearrested. If you spot any unexplained strangers in your community, please call the 615-security emergency number immediately, and make a report”.
“I have directed the security agencies to deploy personnel to critical national assets within the state and to monitor all entrance and exit points across the state.”
The governor equally called on residents of the state to disregard speculations doing the rounds on social media about the attack, stating that the authorities have begun investigations into the matter”.
“I appeal to you, the good people of Oyo State, to remain calm. We are aware of the various speculations going round especially on social media regarding the reason for this attack. I urge you all to disregard any such rumours as the authorities are still investigating the matter”.
“Rest, assured that we will continue to do everything we are constitutionally allowed to do to secure our state,” he added.
The first automated blood screening machine in the southwest has been inaugurated in ibadan.
Our health correspondent who was there reports that the machine known as Architect i1000 automated screening machine was inaugurated by oyo state Governor Engineer Seyi makinde.
Represented by the commissioner for health, Dr. Taiwo Ladipo, the governor expressed the determination of the present administration to address shortages of blood .
The acting Director General National Blood Service Commission, NBSC, Dr. Joseph Omale noted that the landmark achievement would assist in improving the healthcare system and reduce the stress being faced by the health personnel in the course of discharging their duty.
Southwest Zonal Director, Dr, Dapo Aworanti said the commission would continue to do all they could to prevent untimely deaths through the adequate provision of blood.
The event also witnessed the presentation of awards to two outstanding blood donors Mr. Ibrahim Adewale and Mr. olumide Wilson who donated 80 and 59 pints of blood.
The occassion had in attendance stakeholders in the health sector including commissioners for health in ogun and Osun states.
Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin says Governor Seyi Makinde remains one of the most committed to the prompt payment of pensions and gratuities of retirees in the country.
The Speaker said this while speaking at the Pensioners Day celebration held at the Oyo State Pensioners House, Jericho Ibadan.
Mr Ogundoyin said the Governor has been able to fulfill his campaign promise of making life comfortable for pensioners in the State.
According to Mr Ogundoyin, by the end of the present administration, Governor Seyi Makinde would have offset the #56billion accumulated gratuities owed pensioners by the previous Governments in Oyo State.
” Our Pensioners have been receiving their pensions on the 25th of every Month just like the Oyo State workers. Before the commencement of this Government, a sum of #100million was usually committed monthly to the payment of pensions. But Governor Seyi Makinde had increased the money to about #300billion. This is because he is a Governor that is so passionate about the welfare of retirees.” He said.
The Speaker noted that the most Pensioners Friendly Governor award presented to Governor Seyi Makinde recently by the national body of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, NUP was most deserving.
While reiterating the resolve of the 9th Oyo State House of Assembly to give legislative support to policies of the Governor which are meant to enhance the standard of living of the senior citizens, Mr Ogundoyin added that the State Legislature had passed the Oyo State Pension Board Amendment Bill, 2021 and the Elderly Persons Protection Bill, 2021 into Law.
He appealed to the pensioners to desist from investing their gratuities and money on businesses they have no full knowledge of.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Alhaji Siju Lawal appealed to the pensioners to continue to support the PDP led Government in the State.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has described a former Governor of the state and the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja as an exemplar in traditional and political leadership.
The governor, who stated this in a congratulatory message to the Osi Olubadan, whom he described as his father, said Senator Ladoja’s contributions to the progress and development of Oyo State and the country are immeasurable and exemplary.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quotes Governor Makinde as adding that Ladoja is worthy of celebration for the different roles he has played in different spheres as an achiever in business, a worthy model in politics and a committed community leader.
He said: “Our father, the Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, I rejoice with you as you add another year today”.
“Your life of service, your people-oriented leadership and your immense contributions to the progress and development of Oyo State are exemplary”.
“As you mark another birthday in your eventful life, I pray to God to grant you good health and more wisdom to make more impact on humanity”.
As the congresses of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, kicks off across the nation to elect the party’s executives for another four years, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has urged members to remain united and work for the progress of the party at all levels.
Governor Makinde stated this shortly after he participated at the PDP ward congress at Ward 11 in Ibadan North East Local Government at about 11.30 am.
While calling for calm, the governor said as a family, all grievances would be addressed with a view of not marginalising anyone.
He described the PDP ward congress across the state as peaceful and transparent.
He said, “I see excitement with the people. They want to participate in the democratic process to select their leaders to run the affairs of the party at the ward level. So, for me, its democracy in action”.
“The exercise today went peacefully. I expect other congresses, local and state congress to be peaceful as well”, he added.
The PDD ward congress was supervised by the Edo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Philip Shaibu.
On the possibility of a parallel congress by aggrieved PDP members in the state, the Edo State deputy governor in an interview explained that, discussions were in top gear with them and that he was optimistic that the crisis would be resolved internally.
Aggrieved members of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Monday met again ahead of the planned congress of the party.
This was just as they passed a vote of no confidence on the leadership of Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State.
At the event which took place at Jogor Event Centre, Oke Ado and attended by Mulikat Akande Adeola, Nureni Akanbi, AbdulRasheed Olopoeyan, Gbolarumi Hazeem, Femi Babalola and host of others, members drawn from all the 33 local government areas of the state, vowed to ensure they do everything to prevent the emergence of Makinde from getting the party’s ticket for the second term.
The members, who voiced their displeasure, said against the governor’s promise before and during the election, they have been neglected while those who were not around during the election are the ones benefiting from government.
Saying that they have accepted what has befallen them, the leaders urged members to be prepared for the congress which begins this week.
“Go to your wards, mobilize your people. Don’t fight anybody. Record whatever happens and leave us to do the remaining in Abuja,” Akande-Adeola assured.
Akanbi, who spoke earlier, said never again would they entrust their destinies in the hands of someone like the incumbent governor.
The Oyo State Ministry of Health, on Thursday, declared that allegations that paucity of funds had hit the state’s isolation centres as reported in the news were false.
The ministry, which made the clarification in a statement released on Thursday, said the allegations were untrue and baseless, adding that the state government has been providing adequate funds and personnel since the outbreak of COVID-19 in the state.
The ministry added that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has been taking proactive measures to meet the needs of the people of the state and ensure the smooth running of the isolation centres.
A statement by Mr. Taiwo Adisa, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde, quoted a report by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Adebisi Ayoola, which provided details of operations of the Isolation Centres and government’s commitments to patients to debunk the claims.
It indicated that the claims that the isolation centres were not funded and that health workers had not been paid were curious and unfounded.
He noted that the services being provided by the isolation centres in the state were adjudged excellent by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), adding that ever since the emergence of the Delta Variant of COVID-19, the state’s Isolation Centres had redoubled their energy and are functioning effectively.
According to the statement, since the outbreak of the pandemic, the state government had been paying all COVID-19 Isolation Centres expenses through bank transfers, with banking instructions, adding that if there was any delay in payment along the line; it could be from the respective banks.
The statement read: “The claims made about the paucity of funds affecting Oyo State Isolation Centres are false and baseless”.
“One would expect the reporter to investigate thoroughly and present facts rather than creating false information for the public”.
“Since advent of this administration, it has been taking proactive steps by improving the needs of the people; and ever since the outbreak of COVID-19 in the state, the government has been providing adequate funds for the running of the Isolation Centres and the personnel cost.
“Furthermore, the services being provided by the centres were ranked as world class by NCDC”.
“Also, since the Delta variant started, all the different Isolation Centres remained open and they have been functioning effectively”.
“So, there is no truth in what was alleged in the news report. Apart from effectively running the isolation centres, the state government is spending much money for the provision of delicious meals, accommodation and payment of allowances to its health workers.
“Equally, additional adhoc health workers were engaged”
Hence, the reporter should find out the true position of things rather than going to press with fake news.”
Signed Taiwo Adisa Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde September 16, 2021.
Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan this evening defeated NK Tabor Sezana of Slovenia by four goals to nothing in an exhibition match decided at the remodeled Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba Ibadan.
The exhibition match was played despite the heavy rain during the official commissioning of the stadium.
Earlier in a novelty match between former Shooting Stars Sports Club players and former players of the super Eagles, Governor Seyi Makinde opened the goal chart via a spot kick for Shooting Stars side while Austin Jay Jay Okocha equalised for the former super Eagles players to end the game one all.
Speaking at the programme, Governor Seyi Makinde stated that the remodeled Sports Complex would accommodate modern day sporting facilities.
Governor Makinde assured that the state government would continue to provide people friendly projects.
Hip hop artistes, Teni the entertainer, Qdot and Fuji musician, Taye Currency were on ground to entertain the teeming spectators at the ten thousand seater stadium.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, two serving State Governors, politicians and notable sports administrators.
