Economy

OGHA Targets Value, Accountability in 2026 Budget

By Web News 254

By Omolara Adasofunjo

The Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has concluded the defence of the 2026 budget proposals submitted by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, across the state.

Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr Musefiu Lamidi, announced the completion of the exercise at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, urging MDAs to place accountability, probity and value for public funds at the centre of their operations.

Mr Lamidi charged heads of agencies to embrace collective responsibility and work towards a realistic 2026 budget that genuinely reflects the aspirations of Ogun State residents. He explained that the House Committee adopted a constructive, non-adversarial approach to the budget review process, with a focus on strengthening service delivery, improving value for money and aligning expenditure with citizens’ needs.

Merry Christmas Greetings from all of us at Radio Nigeria Ibadan

Expressing optimism, Mr Lamidi said the deliberations would enhance public financial management and ensure that the 2026 budget delivers measurable benefits to people across the state.

In a related development, the State Internal Revenue Service, led by its Executive Chairman, Mr Olugbenga Olaleye, reported a revenue performance of over ₦84 billion as of last October, representing more than 83 percent of the projected target for the outgoing year. He also disclosed a proposed revenue target of ₦250 billion for the next fiscal year.

Mr Olaleye stressed the need for strict implementation of newly issued federal tax laws to capture all taxable incomes, expand the tax base and block revenue leakages within the state.

Other agencies whose budget proposals came under legislative review included the Ogun State Ministry of Budget and Planning, the Ministry of Finance, and the Office of the Accountant General.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more news updates.

Legislature

OGHA Moves to Fast-Track Contributory Pension Implementation

By Web News 313

By Omolara Adasofunjo

The Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has summoned the management teams of all state-owned tertiary institutions, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, and the Permanent Secretary of the Bureau of State Pensions for a meeting ahead of the implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Establishments and Public Service Matters, Dr Babatunde Tella, issued the invitation after a joint session with the Ogun State Pension Fund Management Committee.

He said the engagement would help address gaps in the implementation framework, review the nine-point agenda agreed in the MOU with organised labour, and ensure that public tertiary institutions comply with statutory pension requirements.

Dr Tella, accompanied by lawmakers Mr Damilare Bello, Mr Yusuf Amosun, Mr Waliu Owode, Mr Wasiu Ayodele, Mr Olakunle Sobunkola and Mr Kayode Soneye, assured that the Assembly would continue working with the executive to resolve outstanding issues under the scheme.

The Permanent Secretary and Chair of the Pension Fund Management Committee, Mrs Ariola Adetayo, and committee member Alhaji Kunle Adegbite, told lawmakers that seven of the MOU items had already been implemented.

They added that payments would commence once challenges around updating beneficiaries’ PINs were fully resolved.

They reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing pension concerns in the state and described the scheme as the best model when properly executed, commending the administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of retiring workers.

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more news updates.

Legislature

Stakeholders Back Ogun DEI Commission Bill

By Web News 401

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Stakeholders at the public hearing on the Ogun State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Commission Bill have unanimously backed the proposed law, saying it will strengthen social justice, ensure equitable representation, and protect vulnerable groups across sectors.

Representatives of various organisations said the bill would institutionalize fair practices and widen protection mechanisms for marginalized individuals and communities.

They urged closer collaboration between the executive and legislature to secure early gubernatorial assent and recommended that global DEI obligations cited in the bill be clearly outlined.

Declaring the forum open, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, Mr Oludaisi Elemide, said the bill was introduced to promote public orientation, equity, and inclusion for peaceful coexistence.

The bill’s sponsor and Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi, said it would entrench fairness, enhance representation, and prohibit discrimination in all spheres.

Also speaking, the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Adijat Adeleye, said the DEI bill remains a priority for both arms of government, noting ongoing efforts to ensure state facilities comply with accessibility standards.

Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Chief Whip, Mrs Omolola Bakare, said the commission would create a structured platform for marginalized groups to participate in governance, economic development, and social life.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

Follow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more news updates.

Legislature

Ogun Assembly Summons Officials over Defunct Anchor Borrowers’ Programme

By Web News 403

By Omolara Adasofunjo

The Ogun State House of Assembly (OGHA) Committee on Agriculture has summoned key stakeholders involved in the defunct Anchor Borrowers’ Programme to appear before it on Tuesday, 28th October 2025.

The Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Waliu Owode, issued the summons.

Mr Owode listed those expected to appear as the former Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Adeola Odedina; the Chairman and Secretary of the National Cassava Growers Association; former executive members of the association, Mr. Ilori and Mr. Segun Adewunmi; and the Project Manager of the programme.

The committee is seeking clarifications on the scheme’s implementation in the state, prompted by petitions from victims who allege that Wema Bank Plc made illegal deductions from their personal funds without providing the intended support.

During a sitting at the Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the committee also directed Wema Bank to submit a comprehensive report on all programme disbursements.

This report must include a list of service providers, the total funds released, and all relevant supporting documents.

The meeting, which included the Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Bolu Owootomo, further mandated the bank to liaise with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and its Abeokuta branch to provide a verified list of all programme beneficiaries.

Committee Chairman, Mr. Owode added that the OGHA Committee on Public Accounts and Anti-Corruption will collaborate with the Agriculture Committee on the investigation, given the involvement of public funds.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels, and also join our WhatsApp Update Group.

Politics

OGHA Speaker Hosts Assembly Service Commission Board Members

By Web News 238

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for appointing experienced and competent individuals to lead the State House of Assembly Service Commission.

Speaker of the House, Mr Oludaisi Elemide, gave the commendation while playing host to the members of the commission led by a former speaker, Mr Suraj Adekunbi during a courtesy visit at the Ogun State House of Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The speaker, in company of his co-lawmakers noted that the governor’s choice of competent hands reflected his commitment to the progress of the assembly and the state; assuring the commission members of more support for the overall development of the legislative arm and the state in general.

Earlier in his presentation, the new Chairman of the commission, Mr Adekunbi, expressed gratitude to the assembly for their support during the screening and confirmation process, soliciting increased support for the commission to fulfill its assignment.

He also pledged the commission’s dedication to advancing the welfare of the members of staff of the assembly.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels, and also join our WhatsApp Update Group.

Legislature

Anchor Borrowers Programme Stakeholders Invited Over Illegal Deductions

By Web News 108

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has invited some stakeholders and officials involved in the Anchor Borrowers Programme of the federal government including a former National President, Nigeria Cassava Growers’ Association, NCGA, Mr. Segun Adewunmi, and his State Chapter counterpart, Prince Akinbode Adeleye.

The assembly also invited officials of the Nigeria Agriculture Mechanization and Equipment Leasing Company, NAMEL, representatives of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN and those of Wema Bank for further engagement over the ongoing deliberation on the illegal deductions from the personal savings of some of the subscribers of the programme. 

The Chairman, OGHA Committee on Agriculture, Mr Waliu Owode, issued the invitations while presiding over a follow-up meeting with some invited bank officials and the representatives of the Anchor Borrowers Programme victims, regarding the alleged withdrawals of their savings by the Wema Bank at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The House committee chairman also extended an invitation to the officials of the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture, former programme manager, Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme, OGADEP, Pastor Taiwo Ayansanwo, directing the management of Wema Bank to stop debiting all the accounts of the victims who were supposed to be subscribers of the scheme.

The committee directed that the bank should avail the House with the comprehensive details of all accounts earlier credited, copies of correspondences from all commodity growers, list of all service providers before the next meeting slated for Thursday, 17th April, 2025.

Mr Owode explained that the invitation by the House Committee was to enable the lawmakers to have a clear picture of financial transactions that led to the illegal deductions and ensure the recovery of the funds.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels, and also join our WhatsApp Update Group

Legislature

OGHA Speaker Lists Legislative Achievements, Urges Action Against Land Grabbing

By Web News 377

By Omolara Adasofunjo

The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, Mr Oludaisi Elemide, announced that the Assembly has passed 11 bills into law and endorsed over 42 resolutions to promote peace, order, and good governance in the state within the past year.

Speaking at the Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, during an interactive session with journalists, Mr Elemide revealed that the legislature received more than 90 petitions, with most concerning land-grabbing activities across various constituencies.

He noted that the Assembly had passed the anti-land grabbing bill, which the governor has signed into law.

The OGHA speaker then urged security agencies to intensify efforts in prosecuting offenders.

Stressing the importance of collaboration among government arms, Mr Elemide highlighted how the strong relationship between the legislature and the executive has fostered democratic growth and state development.

He commended fellow lawmakers for their support and referenced Sections 91 and 92 of the Nigerian Constitution, which empower the House to appoint its leadership for effective legislative operations.

Addressing recent leadership disputes, Mr Elemide confirmed that the case involving the former Speaker had been resolved in court the previous Tuesday, 21st of January, 2025, restoring normalcy to the Assembly.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group.

Politics

OGHA Speaker Wants Holistic Implementation of Anti-Open Grazing Law

By Web News 282

By Omolara Adasofunjo

The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, Mr Oludaisi Elemide had called on relevant authorities to ensure a holistic implementation of the Ogun State Anti-Open Grazing Law, with a view to controlling the movement of herdsmen across the state. 

Mr Elemide made the call while reacting to the report he received that some herders were moving cattle on the major roads in Ogun State.

The speaker also reacted to the menace of land grabbers terrorising some residents of the state as reported by the member representing Ewekoro State Constituency, Mr Yusuf Amosun.

Mr Elemide urged the people to approach a court of competent jurisdiction on matters relating to land grabbing and forceful evasion of landed property for redress.

He noted that it was high time everyone saddled with the responsibility of enforcing the Anti-Land Grabbing Law braced up and ensured sanity in land administration in order to avoid unlawful exploitation of the people and possible breakdown of law and order.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Legislature

OGHA Confirms Adebisi Femi-Segun as President Ogun Customary Court of Appeal

By Web News 580

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly has confirmed the nomination of Justice Adebisi Femi-Segun for appointment as the President of the Customary Court of Appeal in the state, saying she is fit and worthy to occupy the office. 

The confirmation followed a motion moved by the majority leader, Mr Yusuf Sheriff, seconded by the minority leader, Mr Lukman Adeleye and supported by the whole House through a voice vote.

The confirmation was done shortly after the adoption of the report on the confirmation of the nominee of the governor for appointment as the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Ogun State.

The report was earlier presented by the Deputy Speaker, Mrs Bolanle Ajayi, while the majority leader, Mr Yusuf Sheriff moved a motion for its adoption, which was seconded by Mr Lukmon Atobatele and supported by the entire House through a unanimous voice vote.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Agosasa Chaos: OGHA Calls for Deployment of Security Personnel

By Web News 499

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has passed a resolution calling on the executive to facilitate the deployment of armed security personnel to Agosasa Community in Ipokia Local Government Area of the state as part of efforts to restore peace and orderliness, following civil unrest in the area. 

The resolution followed a motion moved by the majority leader, Mr Yusuf Sheriff and seconded by the member representing Ipokia/Idiroko State Constituency, Mr Adebisi Oyedele who expressed deep concerns about the recent chaos and civil unrest that had occurred in Agosasa town.

Mr Oyedele, during a plenary presided over by the speaker, Mr Oludaisi Elemide at the Assembly Complex in Abeokuta, had reported that the conflict broke out following the installation and coronation of the town’s traditional ruler which was opposed by some groups. 

He called for decisive action to restore peace and security, pointing out the need for the relevant authorities, particularly the police to establish a permanent security base at Agosasa to address the situation for the protection of lives and property of the people. 

The lawmaker equally implored all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation as a means of resolving their grievances and conflicts.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

News

Ogun PASAN Suspends Strike for Twenty-One Days

By Web News 387

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Legislative staff workers in Ogun State under the umbrella of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, PASAN, have resumed duty after the suspension of their 21-day industrial action.

According to a statement by the chairman, PASAN, Ogun State Chapter, Comrade Ayotunde Ojediran, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Union and the Principal Officers of the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, led by the Speaker, Mr Olakunle Oluomo.

Comrade Ojediran stated that the strike was suspended for 21 days to allow the lawmakers to request the State Government to pay the accrued statutory salaries and allowances of the Clerk, Deputy Clerk and Executive Secretary of the commission since their respective dates of appointment without further delay.

It was also agreed that the lawmakers should effect the continuous payment of salaries and allowances through the Consortium of the Administration of Salaries and Pension in the State and extend the payment of the 40% Peculiar Allowance with effect from August 2023 to cushion the effect of inflation on members of the union.

He said the lawmakers promised to also present for assent the Legislative Funds Management Law 2023 and Judiciary Funds Management Law, 2023 passed by the House of Assembly and establish the disbursement and provide necessary tools for the committee to commence action with November 2023 allocation.

The PASAN chairman also noted that the leadership of the House is expected to ensure that the executive arm of government implements these demands within three weeks effective from 22nd November 2023 failure of which the Association will resume the strike action after the expiration of the 21-day ultimatum.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

 

Housing

Stakeholders Call for Stiffer Punishments for Land Grabbers

By Web News 489

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Participants at a stakeholders’ forum at the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, have advocated establishment of a petitions tribunal on land matters and award stiffer punishments to persons promoting land grabbing in the state. 

Those that attended the forum on amendment of a bill for a law to prohibit entry and occupation of landed properties, anti-violence and fraudulent conducts, armed robbery, kidnapping and related matters held in Abeokuta, made the submission. 

A Surveyor, Mr Bode Adeaga and another participant, Mr Olalekan Idowu expressed optimism that the establishment of tribunal would aid prosecution of suspected land grabbers and check the menace.

They also urged government to properly regulate the process for land acquisition. 

Also, the Towulade of Akinale, Oba Olufemi Ogunleye, called on traditional rulers to desist from getting involved in the dastardly act of land grabbing and ensure peaceful co-existence among all residents of their communities.

In a contribution, a representative of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Mr Olayinka Folarin expressed hope that the bill would promote peace in the society.

Mr Folarin called for stiffer penalties against individuals or groups, including security officers who connive with suspected land grabbers to harass owners of landed properties.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Join in efforts to enhance state’s prosperity – OGHA charges Commissioners-Nominee

By Web News 486

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Nine prospective commissioners have been screened by the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, with a charge on them to redouble efforts at enhancing the state’s prosperity, if they eventually joined Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration.

OGHA Speaker, Mr Olakunle Oluomo who gave the charge also urged the commissioner-nominees to be prepared for the task of helping the government to deploy technology towards addressing human challenges, especially in the areas of insecurity, food deficit, transportation constraints and waste management. 

Mr Oluomo said the state required committed hands with the capacity to tap into its comparative advantage as the Gateway State and industrial hub to create more employment opportunities for the people, particularly, the teeming youths.

In separate responses, the nominees promised to bring their expertise and experiences to bear on the implementation of the development agenda of Governor Dapo Abiodun who nominated them to serve in his cabinet and expressed their readiness to effectively tackle the emerging issues confronting the people.

Nine, out of the governor’s ten nominees that appeared for the screening included former cabinet members, Mrs Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, Mrs Olufemi Ilori-Oduntan, Mr Oladimeji Oresanya, and Mr Olugbenga Dairo.

Others were Mr Shofela Emmanuel, Mr Bolu Owootomo, Mr Balogun Ademola, Mr Osunbiyi Tunde, and Mr Fagbayi Sesan.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Chaos as Suspended Former Lawmaker Storms OGHA Complex

By Web News 439

It took the intervention of security agents to prevent a crisis at the Abeokuta Secretariat Complex of the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, when the suspended former Deputy Speaker of the House, Mr Oludare Kadiri stormed the Assembly Complex to gain entry into his office.

Mr Kadiri who was alleged to have led suspected thugs into the complex had reportedly barged into the Office of the Clerk of the House, Mr Deji Adeyemo to create a scene after a confrontation with the Deputy Clerk. 

Meanwhile, the suspended lawmaker, Mr Kadiri has refuted claims that he led suspected thugs to invade the House of Assembly but had visited the Assembly complex to retrieve some drugs left in his office when he was suspended about 7 months ago.

Mr Kadiri told newsmen in Abeokuta that he made attempts to access his office after Justice O.A Onafowokan of the State High Court 3, had delivered a judgment that his suspension was an abuse of power and office by the Speaker, Mr Olakunle Oluomo.

Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, in September 2022 had suspended Mr Kadiri over what they referred to as “the breach of rights and privileges”.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Four Bills Scale 2nd Reading at Ogun Assembly

By Web News 532

Four bills including the Ogun State Rural Access Road Agency Law, 2022, the Ogun State Road Fund, the Ogun State Roads Fund Board and Administration 2022 and the Sacred Heart College of Nursing Sciences Law 2022, scaled through second reading at the State House of Assembly, Oke Mosan Abeokuta. 

These bills were aimed at providing effective reconstruction, rehabilitation and maintenance of rural roads; sourcing of funds through the establishment of a trust fund for the administration of all categories of roads, and backing for the establishment of Sacred Heart College of Nursing Sciences for sustained training of health care personnel.

At the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mr Olakunle Oluomo, the lawmakers in their various contributions to the bill on the Ogun State Rural Access Road Agency Law, 2022, said that the bill when operational would help ease human and vehicular movements as the rehabilitation and reconstruction of rural roads where necessary.

Contributing to the bill on the Ogun State Road Fund, the lawmakers unanimously supported its speedy passage and timely implementation, saying it would serve as a great relief, as government alone could not shoulder the enormous responsibility.

On the Sacred Heart College of Nursing Sciences Law, 2022, the lawmakers said it had become imperative for the state to assist in giving the necessary legal backing for the establishment of the age-long health establishment to continue to train reputable health practitioners.

In his remark, the Speaker, Mr Olakunle Oluomo applauded his colleagues for their robust contributions to the bills and thereafter referred them to House Committees on Rural Development, Works and Infrastructure, Oil, Gas, Energy, Water Resources and Rural Development as well as Health for further legislative actions.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Suspension Saga: OGHA Reinstates Solomon Osho

By Web News 692

The Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has reinstated one of the suspended lawmakers, Mr Solomon Osho, representing Remo North State Constituency.

Mr Osho was suspended alongside former Deputy Speaker of the House, Mr Dare Kadiri for alleged infringement on the provisions of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017.

The suspension was lifted after the lawmakers had adopted the report presented by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Akeem Balogun at a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Prince Olakunle Oluomo.

The legislators also pointed out that the decision was based on the passionate plea and remorse shown by the member who they claimed has promised to always display decorum and respect for constituted authority as a worthy representative of his people.

The House resolved that the suspension be revoked and that Mr Osho be reinstated with effect from Tuesday 4th October, 2022.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Subscribe to our Telegram Channel and join our Whatsapp Update Group

Crime

Ogun Speaker to be Arraigned in Lagos Monday

By Web News 346

The Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo, is to be arraigned in Lagos on Monday by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over alleged financial crimes, an impeccable source within the anti-graft agency confirmed to our correspondent Saturday night.

The source, who pleaded anonymity, noted that the agency was leaving no stone unturned in its bid to arraign the Chief lawmaker, adding that some political actors had been making efforts to stall the arraignment.

He said, “We’re leaving no stone unturned concerning this Oluomo’s matter. He will be arraigned in court in Lagos State on Monday or later in the week, as we’re currently preparing charges against him.

“We’re arraigning him in Lagos because it’s a jurisdictional matter. Some highly placed personalities are doing everything to frustrate his arraignment, but he’s expected to go explain or defend himself in court on Monday.”

The Speaker was arrested by officials of the EFCC at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Thursday morning and secretly flown to Abuja, and was still in the custody of the anti-graft agency, Saturday night.

He was said to have been on the wanted list of the commission following his failure to honour the EFCC’s invitation several times.

Oluomo and others (yet to be named) were accused of forging signatures and financial documents belonging to the state Assembly.

The EFCC National and South-West spokespersons, Mr Wilson Uwujaren and Mr Dele Oyewale, did not respond to their calls nor responded to WhatsApp and text messages from our correspondent, Saturday night.

A member of the Ogun State House of Assembly representing the ruling All Progressives Congress, who spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity, however, confirmed the situation.

He said, “The information you got is correct. Our speaker was arrested by officials of the EFCC earlier this morning. From what I gathered, he was alleged to have been involved in misappropriation and embezzlement of funds.”

It was further gathered that the absence of the Speaker prevented the House from observing its last Thursday sitting.

Deputy Speaker, Akeem Balogun, who is statutorily saddled with the responsibility of conducting the businesses of the Assembly, also could not convene the sitting of the House.

On Thursday, staff members of the Assembly complex were seen gathering in groups and discussing in a hushed tone.

The Speaker’s refusal to honour the EFCC’s invitation was said to be premised on the existing litigation instituted by the Assembly earlier in January this year at the Federal High Court sitting in Abeokuta, against the agency.

Speaking on the development, the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Yussuf Adejojo, said the Speaker’s arrest might have prevented the lawmakers from observing its sitting.

Oluomo was granted bail on Friday.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

Crime

Update: Oluomo Flown to Abuja for Questioning

By Web News 417

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has flown the arrested Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, for questioning.

As reliably gathered, the embattled lawmaker is currently onboard an Abuja-bound aircraft over alleged misappropriation and embezzlement of funds

An impeccable source within the anti-graft agency confirmed the development to our correspondent on Thursday.

The EFCC arrested the Ogun Speaker at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in the early hours of Thursday at about 09:00 am.

The source added that Oluomo had earlier failed to honour official invites by the anti-graft commission.

The EFCC National and South-West spokespersons, Mr Wilson Uwujaren and Mr Dele Oyewale, did not take their calls nor responded to WhatsApp and text messages from our correspondent on Thursday.

A member of the Ogun State House of Assembly representing the ruling All Progressives Congress, who spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity, however, confirmed the situation.

He said, “The information you got is correct. Our speaker was arrested by operatives of the EFCC earlier this morning. From what I gathered, he was alleged to have been involved in misappropriation and embezzlement of funds.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

Subscribe to our Telegram channel

Politics

Ogun Assembly Commences Budget Performance Assessment for MDAs

By Web News 602

Ogun State House of Assembly will commence this year’s budget performance assessment for the First Quarter on the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government as well as Local Government Councils. 

A statement signed by the Clerk of the House, Mr Deji Adeyemo, notes that the annual exercise remains part of the oversight functions of the Legislative Arm of Government in entrenching good governance in line with Sections 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as Amended.

Mr Adeyemo said the essence of the exercise was part of the effort at ensuring transparency and value for money in the running of government business.

The statement adds that the exercise, which is meant to assess and ascertain the level of compliance by the MDAs with the 2022 Appropriation Law; as well as ensure effective and efficient service delivery to the people, will begin from 10 in the morning daily and end on Friday, 29 April 2022.

The statement, therefore, enjoins all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government as well as Local Government Councils to make available all relevant documents and information to the lawmakers for the success of the exercise.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Economy

OGHA Canvasses Even Spread of Rural Road Projects

By Web News 487

Ogun State House of Assembly has tasked  the State Project,Monitoring Committee of the Rural Access and Agriculture Marketing Project (RAAMP) on the need to  ensure even spread of  rural road construction and durable road projects that will further aid rural development.

Speaker of the House, Mr Olakunle Oluomo, stated this at the Assembly complex, Oke Mosan,during an engagement with the RAAMP Committee, led by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, Mr Adetunji Kanimodo.

The Speaker assured the Committee of all necessary legislative support at enhancing the productive capacity, rapid development of rural areas across the State and the improvement of the living standards of the grassroot people.

Describing the proposed programmes of the Committee as being novel and progressive, Mr Oluomo noted that the bane of the nation’s progress remained the absence of a legal framework for carrying out effective maintenance culture on infrastructural projects, including road networks.

Earlier in his presentation, the Team leader, Mr  Kanimodo said the Committee’s engagement with the lawmakers was to intimate them of the lofty programmes of RAAMP, which was to develop selected rural roads and markets across the three Senatorial districts for improved socio-economic prosperity of local farmers.

Also, the Lead Infrastructure Engineer,  Mr Abdulazeez Buka-Gana added that nine rural markets had been identified at the preparatory stage of the project for the provision of access roads, sanitary facilities and water storage facilities owing to the State’s comparative advantage in three value chain crops including rice, cassava and maize.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Entertainment

We will always support FRCN – OGHA Speaker

By Web News 630

The Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, says it will offer continuous support and partnership to the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, for the growth and development of the Ogun State.

The speaker, OGHA, Mr Olakunle Oluomo stated this while playing host to the management team of FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station (which comprises all the Southwest states excluding Lagos), led by the Zonal Director, Mrs Bolatito Joseph. 

Mr Oluomo noted that the corporation had continued to project the activities of the OGHA positively. 

Earlier, the Zonal Director, FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Mrs Bolatito Joseph had solicited the support of the OGHA in the area of jingles and programmes broadcast to project the activities of the assembly better.

Mrs Joseph reiterated the commitment of the corporation at disseminating unbiased information at all times.

On the entourage of the Zonal Director were the General Manager, Paramount FM Abeokuta, Mr Akinyinka Akintola, Manager Programmes of the station, Mr Dapo Oyekanmi and his News counterpart, Mrs Oluremi Olugbenro among other members of the management team.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Agriculture

Elephants Invade Farmlands, Injure Farmer, Destroy Crops In Ogun

By Web News 562

A Member representing  Ijebu  East  State constituency at the Ogun State House of assembly  ,Mr Sola Adams has described the  recent incident where elephants attacked a farmer in his constituency as worrisome.

Mr Adams who spoke under personal explanation during plenary in Abeokuta affirmed invasion of farmlands by elephants which also injured a farmer at Itashin in Ijebu East Local Government Area of the state.

The lawmaker stated that the injured farmer was receiving treatment at Ijebu Ode General Hospital, calling on relevant agency to do the needful and return the elephants to where they should be.

In a remark,The Speaker ,Mr Olakunle Oluomo, condemned the invasion of elephants into farmland to the extent of injuring a farmer.

Mr Oluomo advised farmers to stop further encroachment on natural habitat of elephants, which had now left their habitat to attack people and destroy farmlands.

He added that the issue of elephants’ incursion into town,required the state’s ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to engage the Nigerian Conservative Foundation in preserving the ecosystem.

It would be recalled that in February, 2022, people of Ibarapa in Oyo State also complained of elephants straying into the town.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Economy

Ogun Assembly Calls  For Constitution Of Task Force To Check Hoarding Of Fuel

By Web News 455

Ogun  State House of Assembly has appealed to the State government to immediately constitute a special task force to checkmate artificial scarcity of petroleum products to reduce incessant queues at fuel stations.

Speaker of the House ,Mr Olakunle Oluomo  made the plea  during the plenary at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.


Mr.Oluomo noted  that the queues were occasioned by  unnecessary hoarding of the product by some fuel station owners.

He explained that the issues of artificial scarcity of petroleum products needed to be addressed immediately, as it was already having  negative effect on all other socio-economic activities in the State.


In a similar vein, the Speaker called on the Special Adviser to the State Governor on Security Matters, Mr. Olusola Subair to further explore the existing State Security Trust Fund for the the procurement of more security apparatus to beef up security of lives and property of residents especially at the riverine areas.


The call followed the report of the Deputy Speaker, Mr Akeem Balogun and Deputy Chief Whip,  Mr Olusola Adams, on the need to tighten security around the border areas with Lagos and Ondo States, especially around Ode-Omi, Iwopin in Ogun Waterside and Imobi in Ijebu East Local governments.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Security

OGHA Proposes Security Summit to Tackle Insecurity in Public Schools

By Web News 620

Security Summit is being proposed by the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, to tackle disturbing trend of insecurity in public schools across the state.

Speaker of the House, Mr Olakunle Oluomo stated this while receiving a non-governmental organisation, National School Crimes Prevention Corps, NSCPC, on a courtesy visit at the Assembly Complex, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.

Mr Oluomo who frowned at the worrisome dimension of crime being perpetrated by some pupils, said the summit will bring together stakeholders in the education sector and security agencies to proffer solutions to the issue.

He promised that the House would give necessary support to enable the corps to succeed in its task of preventing crimes in schools.

Earlier, the Commandant of the Corp, Mr Folayinka Ige, has called for urgent intervention of the Ogun State House of Assembly to prevent the loss of lives and property in public primary  and secondary schools, particularly among principals and teachers who are under constant  threat from pupils.

Mr Ige appealed to the lawmakers to initiate an enabling law to address the worrisome trend where pupils attack others including teachers with charms and other dangerous weapons.

He solicited the support of all the lawmakers, said the corps had visited over 500 schools in Ifo, Sagamu, Abeokuta and across the country, apprehending pupils engaging in different atrocities.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Lifestyle

Stronger laws needed to tackle gender-based violence – Mrs. Abiodun

By Web News 854

The Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has been urged to enact a law that will put a stop to all forms of gender-based violence among the people.

The appeal was made by a group of people involved in activism against gender-based violence in the state, led by the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun and the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Noimot Salako- Oyedele during an advocacy visit to the Assembly Complex in Abeokuta.

The group noted that the visit as part of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence was to advocate for a law to prohibit the violence, including battering, bullying and other harmful acts against children, women and men.

They requested that relevant amendments should be effected on relevant laws in the state to reflect the current realities in the society and help to curb all forms of gender-based violence.

Responding, the speaker, Mr. Olakunle Oluomo promised that the 9th Assembly would assist in reviewing the relevant laws to checkmate human rights abuse for the promotion of peaceful coexistence and the elimination of any forms of gender-based violence in society.

While commending the stakeholders for choosing gender-based violence as the focus, the speaker advised them to sponsor a bill to tackle such abuses being faced by women and men daily, adding that all efforts must be geared towards stamping it out of society.

Others on the entourage of the wife of the governor included the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Funmi Efuwape and a former Speaker, Mrs Titilayo Oseni-Gomez.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke