News

FG to Unveil National Lifestyle Charter Soon – DG NOA

By Web News 437

By Olawale Asake

The National Orientation Agency, NOA, has restated its commitment to repositioning the country into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s Administration.

Director General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the declaration during a working visit and interaction with the Staff of the Agency in Oyo State Directorate.

Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in October, 2023 as the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, said the agency would soon launch the National Lifestyle Charter that would define responsibilities of government and expectations from the Nigerian citizens.

Mr. Issa-Onilu noted that the NOA was ready to change the narrative of the decadence in the country through the renewed agenda of the present Administration and ensure ethical re-orientation and citizens’ mobilization for increased development of the country through the National Charter.

The DG explained that the National life charter was aimed at instituting a well grounded social contract where the citizenry would have certain expectations of the country with emphasis on core values needed in building a patriotic ecosystem for sustainable growth of the country.

“We are waiting for the President to unveil our new National Values Charter because a Country must have value system. We must have National Culture that defines who we are. Those of us who are not engaging in nefarious activities are in the majority and we must be united, so that we have commonality of characteristics as citizens of Nigeria”

“So, it is the commonality of that features that will make us to be unique citizens and make us different from others.  We must know who we are and what makes us Nigerians so that anybody who steps out of that, we can say he or she is not a good Nigerian.. DG NOA, said. 

Mallam Issa-Onilu maintained that, there were certain values that needed to be instilled among the citizens including patriotism, tolerance, honesty, integrity, obedience, unity and discipline towards building an egalitarian society.

He noted that, Nigeria would not achieve meaningful progress unless the citizens change their lifestyle by embracing virtues.

“Every country, there must be an agreement between the Country and its citizens. Citizens must look forward to something from the country and the country also must look forward to something from its citizens. So, it is a social contract. This government is now saying the country itself has a responsibility and must make promises to the citizens, so that in exchange of that, you also have some commitments”

Mr Issa-Onilu, who lamented that Nigeria had lost its core values due to moral decadence, added that, revitalizing the lost national values became imperative, because it was the missing link causing moral decadence in the country.

While addressing members of staff, the DG urged them to brace up for the task ahead and show more dedication to the service of educating the public on government policies and programmes.

In a remark, Oyo State Director, National Orientation Agency, NOA, Dr. Olukemi Afolayan who commended the Director General for the timely visit and words of encouragement towards being alive to the responsibilities of the Agency, promised that her dedicated members of Staff would not relent at promoting the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Present Administration.

The Director General used the opportunity of his working visit to Oyo State to view the Explosion site in Bodija where he commiserated with the victims and government of the State on the incident, describing it as devastating and unfortunate.

He also paid a homage to Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun in his Alarere Residence, saying, Olubadan is one of the most respected Traditional Rulers in the country, solicited his support towards making the country a better place.

Culture

Isese Day Celebration: OYHA Commends Gov. Makinde

By Web News 585

The Oyo State House of Assembly has commended the State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde for fulfilling his promise made to traditional religious worshippers during his electioneering campaign period to grant their request for special recognition of the Isese Day celebration in the State.

The House made this assertion while reacting to Governor Makinde’s approval that henceforth, every August 20 is dedicated as a public holiday to celebrate the Isese festival in the State as contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo on behalf of the Governor yesterday.

In a statement issued by the Chairman House Committee on Information, Media, Public Affairs and ICT, Hon. Waheed Akintayo, and made available to journalists, the House expressed its happiness that the motion it approved on August 9, 2023, for approval of August 20 as ‘Isese Day’ celebration has eventually gotten the nod of the Governor.

The House recalled that following a motion moved by its House Leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin which emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions and beliefs of traditional worshippers, it approved 20th of August as already designated by several other States in the South West as a special holiday for the celebration of Isese festival.

According to the statement, “we recalled with nostalgia that during the 2023 electioneering campaign, His Excellency, Gov. Seyi Makinde had expressed his support for granting a special day to celebrate Isese festival. He had promised the Isese adherents that he would honor their proposal once it was approved by the State House of Assembly. 

With this historic decision by the Governor, Oyo State has set another example for other regions not only to celebrate and embrace their rich heritage but also to learn to foster unity and inclusivity among all religions without discrimination as being witnessed in some states in recent times.” The Statement added.

While congratulating the adherents of traditional worshippers on the celebration of this year’s Isese festival, the House called on them to use the Isese Day celebration to pray fervently for humanity, Oyo State, and prosperity in each individual’s household.

Isese Day Festival is celebrated across the globe by traditional religious adherents on the 20th of August and the day is always set aside for prayers, offering of sacrifices, and festivities.

PR/Mosope Kehinde

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Communication

Strive to Maintain Flagship Status, FRCN Ibadan ZD Charges Staff

By Web News 543

By Fasilat Lawal/Dayo Adu

Given the emerging competitive trend in the broadcast industry, evolving new skills and strategies becomes necessary to keep abreast and stay ahead.

The Zonal Director, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr. Dominic Mokikan gave the charge at the staff forum at the Broadcasting House, Dugbe.

Mr. Mokikan explained that as the flagship of broadcasting in the nation, it is essential that Radio Nigeria Ibadan, Broadcasting House, Dugbe, sustain its leading role.

The Broadcasting House Ibadan helmsman, who explained that the Committee of Management was making frantic effort to ensure the station stays on air, called on members of staff to come up with suggestions and ideas to solve myriad of challenges the station is facing.

The Zonal Director while reeling out a number of successful strides by the Management under his charge, lauded members of the Committee of Management for their support, and equally charged staffers to continue to be diligent and hardworking.

Highlight of the forum was the distribution of letters of promotion to members of Staff.

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Politics

Makinde Appoints 9 Aides for Deputy Governor

By Web News 596

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has appointed aides to the Deputy Governor, Chief Bayo Lawal. 

The newly appointed aides as contained in a letter signed by the Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, are:

1. Ajagbe Yusuf Olatunji: SA (Political)

2. Sakariyah Kunle Sanni: SA (Administration)

3. Hassan Ajibade: SA (Legal)

4. Omoetan Omolere: SA (Print Media)

5. Badmus Adesola: SA (Domestic)

6. Oyedeji Ahmed: SA (Public Affairs)

7. Alhaji Nasiru Ayinde: SA (Projects)

8. Ajibade Waheed Ademola: SA (Media Online)

9. Mutalib Adewale: Personal Assistant

Governor Seyi Makinde also approved the appointment of Miss Adetola Adedibu as Special Assistant, SA, to the Governor on Liaison Office Abuja.

Governor Makinde therefore congratulated the new appointees and urged them to see their appointment as a call to service.

He implored them to discharge their duties with utmost loyalty and all sense of responsibility.

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PR/Iyabo Adebisi

Transportation

Motor Parks Witness Low Turnout as Holiday Winds Up

By Web News 596

By Jeff Ahonmisi/Fasilat Lawal

The Agodi Gate motor park in Ibadan witnessed a few passengers traveling back to their respective destinations after observing the public holiday declared by Federal Government to celebrate Eid-El-Fitri.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, an Official of the Park Management system

Agodi unit, who craved anonymity said people coming out from the recent cash crunch might be the cause for residents deciding to spend the holiday in their homes.

Some of the passengers who commended the federal government for declaring the public holiday expressed disappointment that the transportation was slightly increased.

At the Apata interstate motor park, a few passengers were also seen boarding vehicles to their respective bases.

Some of the passengers who spoke with Radio Nigeria correspondent said they were going early to their base to prepare for the resumption of work tomorrow.

An official of the park, Mr Tunde Fashola said the management of the park always keeps the fares the same in spite of the increase in petroleum products. 

Mr Fashola however urged the government to rehabilitate the Ibadan/Abeokuta expressway for a safer journey.

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News

Ex FRCN Ibadan ZD, Others Get Outstanding Award

By Web News 531

By Dayo Adu/Taiwo Akinola

Women and the girl child have been tasked to evolve technological and innovative skills in their various fields of life, to solve the nation’s challenges.


A cross section of speakers at the women leadership summit and awards in Ibadan organized by Rescue Complimentary Support Corps in collaboration with NGM humanitarian Foundation gave the charge .


The speakers who explained that, women were gifted with talents and innovative ideas to excel in any discipline, noted that the advent of cliché such as “women in Tech”, “women in law”, “women in medicine” among others were signs of that the female gender had evolved as champions.


One of them, Pastor Dolapo Adelakun, in a keynote address to the occasion through one of her associates, Mrs Abisola Adetunji, advised women to see themselves as builders and be courageous at impacting the girl child with good virtues so as to affect the society positively.


On her part, the immediate past Zonal Director, Radio Nigeria Ibadan Zonal Station, Erelu Bolatito Joseph who said women had the numerical strength to play key roles in politics and national development, encouraged women to support themselves so as to clinch key positions in the society.

Earlier in an opening remark, Commandant-General, Mrs Funkẹ Wehbe Charged non governmental organizations to work as development agents in the rehabilitation of hoodlums, area boys and girls on the Nigerian streets.

The event featured presentation of awards to women who distinguished themselves in their fields of practice including the immediate past Zonal Director, Radio Nigeria Ibadan Zonal Station, Erelu Bolatito Joseph.

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Politics

Security Agents at Strategic Points of Duty

By Web News 397

By Taiwo Akinola

As Nigerians prepare for the presidential and National Assembly elections, security agents in Oyo state have been seen in their strategic areas for proper coordination and to ensure law and order are in place throughout the conduct of the election.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent who moved round some areas in Ibadan metropolis, said the security operatives were seen at different locations to enforce the no movement order as people who were flouting the order were being turned back except for those with genuine reason to move.

At some polling units Radio Nigeria visited, INEC officials were set for the exercise.

Election process was expected to start by 8:30am.

Lifestyle

FRCN Top Staff Bows Out of Service

By Web News 892

By Mosope Kehinde

Deputy Director News and General Manager Premier FM, Ibadan, Alhaji Aderemi Omotoso has been described as a thoroughbred professional.


Family, well-wishers and members of staff of Premier FM, Radio Nigeria Ibadan made this known during a send-off ceremony in honour of the out gone General manager, held at Premier FM Iyagunku, Ibadan.


While eulogizing the unique attributes of Alhaji Aderemi Omotoso, the staff described him as humble, upright and a realist who is dedicated and passionate about the progress of Radio Nigeria.

One of the guests, former Chairman, Nigeria Union Of Journalists, NUJ, Oyo State Council and Public Relations Officer, The Polytechnic Ibadan, Alhaji Soladoye Adewole expressed confidence in Alhaji Omotoso’s professionalism and morals on Radio Nigeria staff in maintaining a cordial relationship while in service.

Also speaking, the younger brother to the outgone Deputy Director News, Mr Abdul-hakeem Omotoso who was not surprised by the testimonies expressed by Premier FM staff said it was a confirmation of Alhaji Omotoso’s fatherly role in the family and in his community.

Earlier, Acting General Manager, Premier FM Ibadan, Mrs Toyin Ajayi-Ope wished Alhaji Omotoso good luck and God’s guidance at his retirement.


Reacting, Alhaji Omotoso appreciated God, family members and staff for the support throughout his years in service, appealing to younger colleagues to be focused and do their best in the discharge of their duties.


Highlights of the send-off ceremony were the cutting of the cake and the presentation of gifts.

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Politics

Makinde Suspends Campaign Over Fuel, Naira Crisis

By Web News 465

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Oyo State governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, has announced the suspension of his campaign activities over the unending fuel and new naira-note crisis.

Governor Seyi Makinde, whose campaign trail has visited some parts of Oyo State, said this during the Flag-off of the Omi-Adio-Ido Road on Friday.

The Governor said the suspension is in solidarity with the people over anti-people economy policies of the All Progressives Congress, APC, led Federal Government.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun confirmed this.

In the statement, Makinde, who was in Ido to continue his campaign, directed that all campaign activities be suspended until further notice.

Dr Olatubosun said Governor Makinde notes that the suffering of his people is too much, saying he was elected to protect their interests and well-being.

He said, Governor Makinde, who flags off the Omi Adio-Ido Road in an emotionally laden voice, directed leaders of the Party in Oyo State to suspend the campaign.

“As a mark of honour to citizens and residents of Oyo State, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde has direct that all campaign activities of the party at all levels be suspended until further notice”, the statement read.

He added, “Governor Seyi Makinde’s love for his people necessitated this unprecedented move, at this time. We urge all residents and citizens of the State to remain calm as we navigate through this difficult period together.”

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Economy

Cash Scarcity Sparks Protest in Ibadan

By Web News 657

By Fasilat Lawal, Iyabo Adebisi, Dayo Adu

Some aggrieved residents have stormed Iwọ-Road, Agodi axis of Ibadan, the Oyo state capital to display their grievances over the unavailability of the new Naira notes from Automated Teller Machines, ATM and over-the-counter.

The protesters who were mainly youths were seen in their numbers burning tyres, destroying campaign billboards and blocking the Agodi-Iwo -Road axis.

Our correspondent who was at the scene of the event, reports the protest had crippled commercial and business activities in the area as the aggrieved youths turned the road into a football pitch while vehicular movement in the area was at a halt.

 Meanwhile, youths armed with dangerous weapons such as iron rods, stones, plastic chairs, and broken bottles, among others were sighted at the entrance of Oyo state Secretariat and blocked a portion of the road linking Bodija to the Secretariat axis with burn fire.

The protesters forced their way into the state Secretariat and headed straight to the governor’s office where one Inspector of police who was on duty at the main entrance of the Governor’s office was injured.

Radio Nigeria gathered that the injured officer was stoned by the angry mobs while trying to prevent them from gaining access to the main governor’s office complex.

It was learnt that the officer has been rushed to the clinic for proper treatment.

The state joint security outfit known as Operation Burst, some police officers, including Amotekun officers were on ground to maintain law and order 

Reacting, the Executive Assistant to Governor Makinde on Security Matters, CP. Sunday Odukoya retired appealed for calm noting that their grievances affected everyone.

Mr Odukoya is optimistic that government would soon address the scarcity of new naira notes and other matters affecting the people.

The protest also spread to other parts of the town such as Mokola round about, Queen Cinema where the protesters made burn fire.

  • Protesters
  • Scene of protest

Read also: Raging Anger As Nigerians Protest Non-Availability of Fuel & Naira

https://radionigeriaibadan.gov.ng/2023/02/01/raging-anger-as-nigerians-protest-non-availability-of-fuel-naira/

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Energy

Persistent Petrol Scarcity Fuels Concern in Ibadan

By Web News 563

Residents of Ibadan have called for the availability of premium motor spirit, PMS, known as petrol to ease their suffering.

They made the call while speaking with Radio Nigeria correspondent who monitored the fuel situation in the state capital.

The residents, who frowned at the frustration in getting PMS, said Federal Government had neglected its responsibility in making provisions for the well-being of its citizens, as the scarcity persists every day without solutions. 

Some residents, who lamented several hours spent in the queue despite the hike in the price of petrol, appealed to the Federal Government to urgently address the situation.  

“There is no fuel anywhere; the fuel is very scarce, that is why people are rushing it even though we are buying it at #320 per litre because we can’t just get it anywhere”. Another resident said, “If it increases to 500 naira per litre we would still buy because there is nothing we can do, we have no power “.

Also,” I don’t know for how long we would be on queue for fuel if they would increase the fuel let us know so that everyone of us will buy at the correct price because all this on and off is unacceptable”.

Corroborating, some commercial motorists and Okada riders recounted their ordeals as fuel price was skyrocketing on daily basis, and had affected their sales.

“They are selling 300 naira per litre. It is only one or two places that they are selling it at that rate as at yesterday, but today, some filling stations have opened but sells above 270 naira per litre. Customers will bear the pain because it’s not easy to be getting money.”

An Okada rider, Moses Emeka on his part said, “people are not flagging down bikes because of what we are facing, both the petrol station and passengers are frustrating us.”

Saheed Babalola also said, “We are getting the fuel for 320 naira per litre even though we stay on the queue to get it, Government is not fair to us”

Speaking, a manager of one of the independent filling stations, who did not want his name to be mentioned, said the persistent long queue at his filling station was because it was being sold at a lesser price of 270 naira per litre.

“Other stations sell for 320 per litre but we sell ours for 270 naira per litre. That’s why the queue is much.  For 3 days now, we have been selling kegs and the people will still be making noise and damaging our nozzle”.

Our Correspondent observed that most filling stations in the metropolis locked their gates while a few that had the fuel sold between 295 and 350 naira per liter, with a long queue.

In the meantime, the persistent fuel scarcity has caused disruption of the free flow of traffic in areas where the major filling stations are cited whether the product was available or not as motorists queue indiscriminately on the road.

Olukemi Akintunde

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Environment

Relief as Ibadan Witnesses First Rain

By Web News 963

Ibadan, the Oyo state capital today recorded its first rain of the year.

Our Correspondent reports that the rain, which fell heavily in Podo, Odo Ona-Kekere and the environs started at about three o’clock in the afternoon. 

A cross-section of residents in the area expressed joy over the rain, which they described as a relief from the hot weather currently being experienced.

The residents, who prayed for more rain soonest, condemned the services of IBEDC in the area, saying home appliances like fans, air conditioners, fridges, and freezers that could have cushioned the effects of the heat

They pointed out that the use of fridges and freezers for food preservation had become useless due to near zero per cent power supply.

Further investigation by our correspondent on the first rain revealed that, while other areas felt the cool breeze effect of the rain, it merely dropped or scattered in some areas within the state capital.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Sport

Peaceful Polls: NGO Organises Novelty Football Match for Youths

By Web News 620

Youths have been enjoined to perform their civic responsibilities, with the aim of developing the country.

Director, Youths Mobilization and Voluntary Organisation at Oyo State Agency for Youths Development, Mr Olaolu Afolabi stated this during a novelty football match on “Vote Not Fight” Campaign, held at Olubadan stadium, Ibadan.

The novelty match between Shallom FA, Ibadan, Oyo State, and Acme Dynamite FC, Ota, Ogun State was aimed at achieving peace, before, during and after the up coming elections.

Abdulai Salahudeen had opened scoring for the hosts in the first half of the encounter, while Anyanwu Chigozie scored the second goal.

The guests were unable to score a goal and the match ended 2 goals to nothing in favour of Shallom FA.

Taiwo Akinola

Religion

Religious Leaders Preach Peace as Nigerians Prepare for Elections

By Web News 592

Religious leaders have called on Nigerians to work towards achieving free and fair elections coming up in February and March, 2023.

The religious leaders made this known in Ibadan at an interfaith forum for peaceful elections tagged “Vote Not Fight”, organised by Non governmental organizations.

The programme was aimed at campaigning for peace before, during and after the elections in the country.

One of the clerics, Alhaji Abdulfatai Owonikewu, who said irrespective of anyone’s belief, working in unity should be the watchword, urged residents of the country to shun any form of violence and practice peace at all cost, even after the elections.

“We are under one country, therefore, we are also one”

Also, Pastor Ehiozogie Solomon, implored Nigerians to contribute their quota to the development of the country, and shun religious conflicts and other social vices, during and after the elections.

Pastor Solomon and Alhaji Owonikewu equally called on other religious leaders to preach the importance of peaceful elections.

Taiwo Akinola

Education

Poly Protest: Oyo Govt Meets School Management, Students

By Web News 523

The commissioner for Education in Oyo state,Mr Abiodun Abdul -Raheem has described the meeting between the management of the Polytechnic Ibadan and students as successful following the protest embarked upon by the students to press home their demands on issues affecting them.

Speaking with newsmen after a meeting held at the Ministry of Education, Mr Abdul -Raheem explained the protest was unnecessary saying that it was due to a communication gap between the parties involved.

The commissioner said the institution’s exam which was put on hold due to the protest would commence as soon as possible pointing out that the government has resolved the issues raised by the students amicably.

In an interview, the president of the Student Union Government of the Polytechnic, Ibadan, Mr Okikiola Joshua was optimistic that there was work in progress on demands raised by the students on the part of the government.

Mr Okikiola Joshua however maintained that the student union would ensure that government implement the demands as promised without delay.

The SUG president of the Polytechnic Ibadan who highlighted their agitations to include inadequate infrastructures, said the challenges needed the attention of the government as soon as possible, to be put in its policies, including reduction of school fees and manpower.

It would be recalled that, students of the polytechnic Ibadan had protested to the Agodi Secretariat to express their agitations on matters affecting them.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Economy

Makinde Signs 2023 Budget into Law

By Web News 489

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has signed the state’s 2023 Appropriation Bill, tagged “Budget of Sustainable Development” into law in Saki ,Oke Ogun area of the state.

The governor who assented to the bill at the headquarters of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development, Agency,(OYSADA),  in Saki, lauded the lawmakers for timely passage of the bill.

He said the budget would aid the completion of some projects as well as the state’s development initiatives.

Governor Makinde  added that his administration has been able to increase the state’s Internally Generated Revenue(IGR) to over N3.8 billion.

He said: “I have just signed the budget into law right here in Saki. “So, history has been made. Let me use this opportunity to thank the Speaker and other members of the Assembly for the speedy passage of the budget. 

“I learnt that the lawmakers stayed very late to sign the budget yesterday( Thursday) and also that they were able to manage the House of Assembly workers, PASAN.

“This is a budget of sustainable development. We know that some of the projects and the work we started must be completed in 2023. So, this is a budget that has N155,677,143,034.34 for recurrent expenditure and N154,755,366,965.64 for capital. You will notice that recurrent is slightly higher than the capital expenditure and this is because we are going into a transition period.

“In 2023, a new Assembly will come in even though I hope that majority of the current members  will still be returned. “Right now, we have 27 PDP members in the State Assembly. For 2023, it will be 32/32.” 

The Governor stated that the state’s budget has always performed above 50 percent, since he came into office adding that the decision to sign the budget in Saki  was historic.He also said that the decision was a testimony to the fact the state’s  economy is integrated  across all zones.

He added: “We are here in Saki in Oke-Ogun zone 2. Saki is the biggest economy around this place. Now, we can drive from Iseyin to Ogbomoso, though the road is not completely open, but we will complete it under the 2023 budget. Out of the 78km, I believe about 50km of it has already been tarred. The artwork to link everywhere remains only 10km. So, I know we have broken the back of that project, and in this 2023 budget, we have made provisions to finish that road. 

“There are other additions under Omituntun 2.0 that we have anticipated what will happen, and we have made adequate provision in this budget I have just signed. “There will be solid minerals development and Tourism. 

“Two days ago at he security council meeting, we were told by DSS  officials that they arrested a trailer with 25 tonnes of lithium. “Yes, they are mining lithium, which is the new gold, and Oyo State is a major lithium belt. So, we have to add solid mineral development to the mix and also tourism. I said tourism because every weekend, you can hardly get a hotel room in Ibadan. If you go to the hinterland, you will see that we are truly blessed and our environment is quite scenic.

“To ensure that we operate in a safe and secure environment, the 500 newly recruited Amotekun personnel have been trained, and their deployment would begin tomorrow, 24th of December, 2022.”

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Professor Musbau  Babatunde, said that the budget  is an inclusive one and  that the whole  Oyo State has made  input into it.

He said : “The budget we are signing today is an inclusive one that the whole of Oyo State has made their input into it. When we came for consultative meeting here and other zones, the people told us what they wanted the government to put in the budget.”We collated everything, and we met in Ibadan and came up with a conclusion. “We did not just allocate figures for the budget, it was a rigorous project that science, data and logic guided.

“The figure of the budget we are signing today is what will improve the welfare of the good people of Oyo State. Our budget was not performing very well when we came into government. It was 27 per cent. But now, we have been going above 50 per cent.


“We really appreciate all the support you have given to us and we promise that the budget will be adequately implemented.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, reiterated that the budget is a product of the synergy and collaboration by all the three arms of government in the state.

Iyabo Adebisi


Education

QSl Alumni Give Back to Alma Mater

By Web News 781

The saying by Winston Churchill, that “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give ” was again re-enacted when some old students gave back to their Alma mata.

The 1989/94 set of Queen’s School Ibadan, as a way of contributing to the school that made them, donated 100 pairs of class furniture through an initiative tagged “seat a girl project”.

Speaking at the official handing over of the furniture to the school authority at a ceremony held in the school, the President, 1994 set, Mrs Adenike Adegoke said the gesture was part of the set’s resolve to give back to the school.

Mrs Adegoke, who commended members of the 94 set for their cooperation and support, charged them not to relent in giving back to the school.

Similarly, President, Queens School Old Girls Association Ibadan Chapter, who is also the Registrar, Lead city University, Dr Oyebola Ayeni encouraged old students to always look back with gratitude and also assist government to sustain their various Alma mata.

Responding on behalf of the school, the Principal, Mrs Folasade Alamu, who appreciated the 1994 class set for the donation, stressed that the importance of giving back to schools by old students could not be overemphasized.

Our Correspondent reports that the event afforded members of the set the opportunity of catching up with old friends and relieving fond memories of their school days as they graced the occasion with colourful attires in their various house colours.

Kayode Banjo

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News

University College Hospital Ibadan Mourns Queen Elizabeth II

By Web News 1680

The beautiful story of the University College Hospital can’t be talked about without mentioning the iconic moment when Queen Elizabeth II came to declare open, the Hospital.

During her visit to Nigeria in the year 1956, on the 14th of February that same year, Her Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II accompanied by a host of other dignitaries graced the Hospital and declared it open to start delivering healthcare services. Though it was still under construction.

HRM Queen Elizabeth was a true gem to the entire world, also fostering a great union called the commonwealth. The way she held down the fort of monarchy for decades represented a holding forth of constitutionalism. She would forever stand as a symbol of continuity and she most definitely touched every part of the world.

Just as Queen Elizabeth stood as a symbol of continuity, this attribute further reflects in our great institution UCH as we continue to stand as one of the foremost teaching hospitals and healthcare delivery centres, in Nigeria and the World.

At the young age of 30 when HRM Queen Elizabeth came to visit Nigeria, the Hospital recalls two moments:

‘How the Queen was welcomed at the Hospital Ramp by Sir James Robertson, (the then Governor General of the Federal of Nigeria) and Sir Sydney Philipson, (the then Chairman of UCH Board of Management)

‘The moment when she walked with elegance about the floors of the School of Nursing building along with Prince Philip and accompanied by Sir Sydney Philipson, the then Chairman of UCH Board’.

These moments are forever framed at the Museum of the Hospital.

The University College Hospital sends her condolences to Great Britain and the Royal family for the loss of Queen Elizabeth II who ruled justly and also held down the fort of monarchy for decades. She will forever be remembered as such a strong figure in the iconic history and establishment of our great institution UCH IBADAN.

PR/Lillian Ibomor

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Security

Breaking: Oyo on Red Alert as Amotekun Intercepts Over 140 Travellers

By Web News 2128

Concerned about the growing cases of insecurity in the country, the Amotekun corps in Oyo state has intercepted a truck load of over 140 travellers in Ibadan.


Radio Nigeria gathered that the travellers, who were intercepted around Bodija-UI axis, were allegedly coming from Zamfara state and heading to Ogere town, Ogun state.


Radio Nigeria further gathered that some of the travellers jumped off the truck and ran away on sighting the corps.

As at the time of filing this report, the Amotekun corps in collaboration with other security agencies are searching the intercepted truck to ascertain their mission.


Details later……..

Rasheedah Makinde

Politics

I’ve not decamped to SDP – Adelabu

By Web News 573

Former deputy governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and frontline All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has denied reports that he has defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Following his loss in the Oyo APC governorship primary election last Friday, the media space was awashed with the news that Adelabu has defected to SDP on Saturday.

did not show up at the venue of the APC primary election, Sen. Teslim Folarin had defeated the former CBN deputy governor and the other aspirants at the tension-soaked election.

Though Adelabu did not did not show up at the venue of the APC primary election, Sen. Teslim Folarin had defeated the former CBN deputy governor and the other aspirants at the tension-soaked election.

Explaining his absence at the governorship primary election in a statement released by his media office on Saturday evening, Adelabu said he cannot be a party to a “conglomeration of political jester.”

Read full statement below:

*MY NON-PARTICIPATION IN THE IGNOMINIOUS CHARADE THAT TOOK PLACE AS APC GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY IN OYO STATE ON FRIDAY, 27TH OF MAY, 2022.**

 *Gentlemen of the Press.*

My dear and distinguished supporters, loyal party members and well wishers, warm felicitations to you all.

Yesterday, precisely Friday, the 27th of May, 2022, an ignominious charade took place in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, which has been referred to as the Gubernatorial primaries of the Oyo State chapter of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). The gathering is nothing but a conglomeration of political jesters; whose delegates list was concocted by the beneficiary of this political shenanigan in the person of Senator Teslim Folarin a.k.a Ja’agba.

I, as a leading aspirant decided to stay away from the gathering of Senator Folarin’s court jesters, for the basic fact that I got to know that the delegates list to be used at the governorship primary has been compromised and a new one formulated by the main arbiter who was to suprintend and supervise over the primary election in conjunction with their paymaster in the person of the same Senator Ja’agba. In short, the main delegates list sent from our great party’s National Secretariat had been corruptly compromised with names of non delegates included and even to the extent of people impersonating the real delegates and illegally voting on their behalf.

I could have attended the political rabble rousing event yesterday in protest, but I figured out that attending such would lead to a compromise of the peace of the people of Oyo State. I had it at the back of my mind, the violence caused by the same actors on the 29th of December, 2010 in which the NURTW Oyo State Chairman then, Alhaji Lati Eleweomo and two others were murdered in broad day light, when our Senator of PDP then, was struggling and strangling for power over the people and resources of Oyo State.

Mindful of the fact that my ambition should never be a cause to spill the blood of those I intend to serve, I decided to stay back from the money guzzling political frolic that took place yesterday. If I had attended in order to foist the flag of truth and honesty at the event, it may have engendered an unnecessary bloodbath yesterday. I give all thanks and praise to the Almighty Allah that I had the calmness of mind to stay back from those that engenders violence instead of peace where ever they go out as political carpet baggers in search of self aggravating power.

I am soberly aware with my numerous supporters that some very dangerous elements are all out to hijack the soul and body of APC in Oyo State and I assure you that all legally and constitutionally possible means shall be engaged to halt them and safe our great party from their leprosy infested crooked fingers; for the people of Oyo State are entitled to a life of peace, a viable economy and prosperity with great infrastructural development devoid of violence and wanton destruction of lives and property.

I hereby use this opportunity to plead with my supporters throughout the nooks and cranny of Oyo State to remain calm and law abiding. We shall in the shortest time ahead inform you all of my next line of action.

The provision of a more abundant life for the great people of Oyo State is non negotiable.

This is to put it on record that I didn’t participate in the Charade called Primary election as the Delegates lists were manipulated.

My attention has also been drawn to my purported defection to Social Democratic Party after the just concluded kangaroo Primary Election of All Progressives Congress. While I’m still consulting widely with political associates, community opinion leaders, families and friends, I’m categorically stating that I have not defected to any other party whatsoever, but my final decision will be communicated to you all at the end of consultation in a matter of few days. All i can tell the whole world for now is that I am going to contest in the 2023 General elections as a Guber candidate, no matter what. This is the only reason why I left my groovy career as a Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2018 and no amount of intimidation, threat or harassment can stop me from my passionate ambition of revolutionising the political, social and economic landscape of Oyo state through machinery of government.

As of today, I’m not a member of SDP or any other political party as being widely circulated by media organisations. Appropriate steps will be taken after consultations in due course. What happened at Liberty stadium Oke Ado at the Governorship primary election of APC is nothing but a show of shame and mockery of APC internal democracy. I fully dissociate myself from such mockery of our political system. The one day delay in conducting the primary was meant to enable them perfect their act of manipulation as nothing stopped the committee from conducting the election on the original date fixed. This foul play was quickly noticed by me, hence my decision to opt out of the shameless process.

I however appreciate all my followers, members of the APC and good people of Oyo state, home and diaspora who were disturbed about the purported Governorship Primary Election of the party. I advise them to remain calm and to continue to be law abiding citizens pending the time final decision will be made on this unfortunate situation.

Thanks for listening and may ALLAH’S Blessings remain with you all.

Adebayo A. Adelabu, OFR, FCA, FCIB

Agba-akin Parakoyi of Ibadan Land.

Newspeak/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Religion

Islamic Scholars Charge Nigerians to Maintain Peace, Harmony

By Web News 678

Chief Imam of Ibadan Hausa Community, Alhaji Saa’d Muhammad wants Muslims to imbibe the lessons learnt during the month of Ramadan and put them into practice in their daily activities.

Alhaji Muhammad who stated this in an Eid Fitr sermon held at the Arcade Government House, Ibadan explained that fasting was prescribed to have the fear of Allah and to abstain from prohibited things and embrace lawful ones.

Also speaking, Secretary to Sarkin Hausawa Abdullah Abubakar advised Muslims to continue to show love and care to one another.

Some Muslims who spoke to Radio Nigeria expressed happiness and gratitude to Allah for the successful completion of fasting during the Holy month of Ramadan and promised to sustain what it had impacted on them.

Fasilat Lawal

Don’t return to your sinful ways – Imam Adewale

Chief Imam, Ifesokan, Arapaja, Odo-Ona Kekere Muslim Community, Ibadan, Imam Mustapha Adewale has advised Muslims not to allow the Ramadan fast to be a waste.

Imam Adewale gave the advice in an interview with Radio Nigeria correspondent after the Eid prayers.

The Chief Imam noted that the fast could be wasted if Muslims go back to all the vices they stopped during Ramadan.

Chief Imam Adewale who listed some of the vices as adultery, drunkenness, backbiting, urged Muslims to continue to shun them.

He added that no Muslim should see himself or herself as bigger, holier or more faithful than the other.

Morenike Esan

Religion

Makinde felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Fitri

By Web News 509

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has felicitated the Muslim Ummah in the state and across Nigeria on the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri festivity, calling on them to sustain prayers for the state and its leaders.


The governor who congratulated Muslim faithful on witnessing the end of the Ramadan, prayed that Allah would accept their worship and keep them all alive and healthy to witness the next Ramadan.


A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, quoted the governor as saying that though the Ramadan season is over, Muslim faithful must continue to practise the lessons that the Holy Month taught us all by remaining close to Allah and denying the self in submission to His will.


The governor equally called on residents of the state to continue to pray for his government and to support its programmes and policies, which are geared towards repositioning the state.


He said:“I also want to charge them that though the Ramadan is over, their commitment to the ideals of prayers, selflessness and service should not wane as these are values that can make our society a better place.


“Please, do not relent in your prayers for Oyo State and its leadership and your support for our administration. “We believe that it is in doing these that we all can derive joy and bring about a better Oyo State.”
PR/Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Ramadan: Cleric Emphasizes Centrality of Worshipping Allah

By Web News 884

The worship of Allah is central to Islam and should be upheld by the faithful.

The Mufasiru Agba Ilorin Al-Adaby, Alhaji Uthman Sanni -Sheu stated this while delivering the 7th annual Ramadan lecture of the Ajebo International Market, Molete, Ibadan.

Speaking on the theme ‘Firmness in Islam’, Alhaji Sanni -Sheu explained that worshipping Allah alone would bring blessings and an abundance of wealth beyond the expectations of the faithful.

Earlier, President, Eléwé Ọmọ Lekuleja, Oyo State, Alhaji Abdul Jeli Amubikaun explained that the Ramadan lecture was organized to remind and educate Muslims faithful on the need to be steadfast in the worship of  Allah alone and to shun all divisive tendencies that could jeopardize their beliefs

Alhaji Amubikaun advised Muslims to use this period of Ramadan to show love to one another, especially to the less privileged and to pray for peace and unity of the nation.

Highlights of the day were awards to some Muslim faithful, recitation from the holy Quoran and songs.

Dignitaries at the event included Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, Delta, Alhaji Makajuola Daudu, who was the Father of the Day, Alhaja Adijat Olaoye, the Mother of the Day, and Alhaji Isiak Gbolagade.

Fasilat Lawal