Lifestyle

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde, has compared the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical group Afenifere, to the fall of a mighty Iroko tree in the forest.

Governor Makinde described Pa Adebanjo’s death as marking the end of an era, praising him as a dedicated nationalist, federalist, patriot, and true democrat who devoted his life to making Nigeria a better nation.

Referring to Adebanjo as a father figure to all, Governor Makinde extended his condolences to the late Afenifere leader’s immediate family, the Afenifere organization, the government and people of Ogun State, and the entire South-West region.

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

Infrastructure

By Abimbola Bamgbose 

Motorists and residents in Ajibayo Village, as well as those travelling between Ajebo and Abeokuta in Obafemi Owode Local Government, will soon experience relief as the Ogun State government prepares to commence the long-awaited reconstruction of the road leading to the Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences.

Governor Dapo Abiodun made this announcement while receiving the Board of the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Abeokuta, led by its Chairman, Dr Dayo Israel, at his office in Okemosan, Abeokuta.

The governor revealed that the state government has partnered with the federal government to ensure that work on the access road begins in the coming months. He acknowledged that although the contract had been previously awarded, it was later abandoned. However, he assured that efforts are now in full swing to rehabilitate the road, which also serves as a major link to Ibadan.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery, Governor Abiodun emphasized the role of Federal Medical Centres in complementing state government initiatives to make healthcare more accessible and affordable.

He congratulated the newly appointed board members and praised Dr. Dayo Israel’s leadership, describing it as a strategic decision that would enhance healthcare services at FMC Abeokuta. The governor also called for stronger collaboration between the board and the state government to further improve healthcare delivery in the region.

In response, Dr Dayo Israel pledged to provide visionary leadership that would help the institution optimize resources, increase revenue, and attract additional funding to meet its growing needs.

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

Agriculture

By Bimbola Bamgbose 

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to establish ranching facilities aimed at improving the processing of meat in the state.

The governor made this disclosure while receiving a delegation led by the Head of International Projects at SEMMARIS, Mr Timothee Witkowski, and the Regional Agriculture Counsellor of the French Embassy, Sonia Darraco, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Monday.

According to Governor Abiodun, the proposed ranching facilities will enable the state to rear, fatten, slaughter, and process meat in a hygienic manner suitable for human consumption.

He further noted that approximately nine thousand to ten thousand cattle are slaughtered daily at Kara Cattle Market to supply Lagos, but the current process is unstructured and lacks adequate hygiene standards.

Governor Abiodun commended SEMMARIS for its contributions to agriculture, food distribution, and logistics, particularly highlighting the success of the Rungis Farmers’ Market in ensuring affordable food supply in France. He expressed optimism that the company’s presence in Ogun State would be transformative, creating economic opportunities across the South-West region.

The governor also emphasized Ogun State’s strategic advantages, including its extensive road networks, rich limestone deposits, and arable land suitable for cultivating cocoa, palm oil, and cotton.

He described the meeting as a continuation of discussions initiated during his visit to France and highlighted the strong business relationship between Nigeria and France. He also noted that President Bola Tinubu is keenly interested in the outcome of the partnership.

Governor Abiodun assured the delegation of his administration’s full support, including incentives to facilitate SEMMARIS’ establishment in the state. He emphasized that the company’s presence would benefit local farmers by providing extension services and serving as an off-taker for their produce.

Speaking on behalf of SEMMARIS, Mr Witkowski expressed the company’s commitment to partnering with the state in modernizing agricultural projects and offering technical support.

He added that once operational, the project would create jobs, enhance food security, and strengthen the agricultural value chain.

Echoing similar sentiments, the Regional Agriculture Counsellor, Sonia Darraco, noted that the French government is committed to supporting the initiative. She stated that the team is currently conducting a feasibility study to identify investment opportunities in the state.

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

Environment

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, OGEPA, has concluded arrangements for the takeoff of Vehicle Emission Control in the state towards mitigating the negative effects of vehicle emissions on the environment.

Special Adviser to the governor of Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, Mr Farouk Akintunde stated this during a stakeholders meeting with the transportation industry in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, saying the test would commence across the state by 1st March 2025.

According to the Special Adviser, there would be designated centres within the state, where the emission test would be conducted for all types of vehicles including cars, trucks, motorbikes, buses and tricycles.

On his part, the Commandant, Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency, TRACE, Seni Ogunyemi, called on the transportation unions in the state to embrace the scheme which was for the good of all citizens of the state.

 In his remarks, Ogun State Commander, Vehicle Inspection Office, Engineer Ademehin Olugboyega said that vehicles that fail the emission test would be referred to the Vehicle Inspection Office, VIO for further testing and advice.

Speaking on behalf of other transportation unions in the state, the Secretary of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, RTEAN, Comrade Tiwalade Akingbade, expressed their unalloyed support for the success of the scheme, while appealing to the government to support the transportation unions in converting to CNG enabled vehicles.

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

Environment

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State Police Command has renewed its call against driving under the influence of any form of substance abuse.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola made the call while reacting to the fatal crash that occurred in the Ile-Oba area along the Ogijo/Ita-Oluwo/Ikorodu Road. 

She said that the crash involved a TVS tricycle with license plate number Lagos BDG 561QN, driven by 21-year-old Usman Abdullahi, and a female pedestrian whose identity remained unknown.

The Command’s Spokesperson said the pedestrian was attempting to cross the road when the tricycle, en route to the Ogijo main park, struck her and she was immediately rushed to the private health centre, Ogijo, for the severe head injuries she sustained.

Miss Odutola who said the the driver, Usman Abdullahi, was currently in police custody advised  road users  to adhere to driving rules and avoid needless fatal crashes.

She reminded the motorists to exercise caution on the roads, especially in high-traffic areas, to prevent further tragedies. 

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

Security

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service have been charged to uphold the core values of integrity, diligence, and patriotism while discharging their duties of contributing meaningfully to the development, security, and prosperity of the country.

The Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Area Command, Mr Muhammed Shuaibu gave the charge at Idiroko while speaking at the decoration ceremony of about 60 newly promoted officers and men of the Command.

Mr Shuaibu said the well-deserved promotions were in acknowledgement of the hard work, commitment, and resilience of the personnel who consistently upheld the values and objectives of the Nigeria Customs Service.

He reminded the operatives that the promotion was not only in recognition of their professionalism, dedication, and outstanding performance but also a reflection of the organization’s confidence in their ability to handle greater responsibilities and service to the nation.

The Customs Area Controller encouraged them to wear the new ranks of authority with integrity and courage while working selflessly as role models for their colleagues, subordinates and the communities where they would serve.

He affirmed that the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr Bashir Adeniyi – led management was committed to ensuring staff welfare and career progression by promoting the enabling environment for officers and men to thrive and advised those yet to be promoted not to be discouraged, but to redouble their efforts.

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

Governance

By Abimbola Bamgbose

The Ogun State Government has warned against any attempt to establish a Sharia Court in the state.

In a statement personally signed by the governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the state government, noted that Sharia Courts cannot be legally constituted by individuals or groups without legal backing.

The government was reacting to a notice announcing the launch of a Sharia Court in the state.

According to the statement, Ogun State only recognizes courts established through the legal framework of the Nigerian Constitution, adding that a Sharia Court does not form part of the legal framework operating in the state.

The statement reads: “The Ogun State Government has noted the circulation of a digital notice announcing the launch of a Shari’ah Court in Ogun State.

No Sharia Court is authorized to operate within Ogun State. The courts that are legally empowered to adjudicate disputes arising within Ogun State are those established by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or by State Laws, which are: Magistrates’ Courts, High Court, Customary Courts, Customary Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court.

No law operating in Ogun State has established a Sharia Court, and Sharia law does not form part of the legal framework by which the Ogun State Government administers and governs society.

The Ogun State Government upholds and protects the rights of individuals to practice the religion of their choice, or to subscribe to no religion, and recognizes the freedom of individuals to apply their faith in their personal and private matters.

“However, this freedom does not extend to the formation of unauthorized assemblies or institutions. No individual or group is legally permitted to constitute a court or present themselves to the public as a court without legal backing. Those behind that notice have no legal backing. They cannot set up a court or administer justice by fiat or public notice.

“The Ogun State Government hereby directs that all persons involved in the creation or operation of this unauthorized court must immediately cease all related activities and disband the illegal entity and all its apparatus.

“The Ogun State Government also advises members of the public to disregard any summons, documents, or persons associated with the illegal Sharia Court. Such occurrences should be promptly reported to the state.

“The Ogun State Government will uphold the rule of law, ensure respect for the legal and judicial framework within the state, and prevent a breakdown of law and order.”

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

Security

By Olusegun Folarin 

Three kidnapped victims have been rescued along the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode Expressway by operatives of Ogun State Police command.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Lanre Ogunlowo confirmed the incident in Abeokuta in a statement through the spokesperson of the state command, Omolola Odutola.

Mr Ogunlowo explained that the Sagamu Area Commander who received a distress call that unidentified gunmen were attacking travellers along Sagamu-Ijebu Ode Expressway mobilized a crack team of officers to the scene.

He said the gang had engaged the officers in a fierce gun battle pointing out that five kidnappers were fatally injured while others escaped with gunshot wounds.

The Commissioner of Police noted that one AK-47 rifle, 10 rounds of 5 points 6mm calibre ammunition 5.2 million naira and three mobile phones were recovered from the scene.

Mr Ogunlowo who gave the assurance that efforts were ongoing to arrest injured members of the syndicate warned against criminal activities, particularly among young individuals seeking financial gain through high-profile crimes. 

He reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to an aggressive crackdown on criminals preying on innocent citizens in Ogun State.

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

Security

By Abimbola Bamgbose 

The Ogun State government has concluded plans to do the groundbreaking of a naval base and naval dockyard at Ode-Omi, Waterside in Ogun East Senatorial district 

The naval base and the dockyard, according to the Ogun State governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, would help to fortify security architecture in the state being a coastal region 

Speaking at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, while playing host to the Flag Officer Commanding, FOC, Western Naval Command, Lagos, Rear-Admiral Michael Oamen on Tuesday, Governor Abiodun explained that the state government has approved and released a hundred hectares of land to the Nigerian Navy for the project

Governor Abiodun submitted that the naval base and the dockyard are important to the state with the sitting of a seaport at Olokola and the proposed oil exploration at Tongeji Island which he said has received the blessing of all the authorities concerned adding that the project would also be of help to complement the activities of the security outfit in the Niger-Delta area by diverting some of its operations to the new naval base 

The governor, while assuring the Nigerian Navy of the needed support towards the successful flagging off of the project, stated that all the bottlenecks that may impede the program would be sorted out

Congratulating the new Flag Officer Commanding, Rear-Admiral Michael Oamen, Governor Abiodun described him as an experienced officer who has displayed exemplary performance in his chosen career promising to support him with all the necessary machinery to achieve his vision for the command

Rear-Admiral Michael Oamen earlier in a remark said he was in the state to thank the governor for his giant strides in providing effective security in the state and also for supporting the Navy secondary school located in the state

The Naval officer assured that he would partner with the state government towards strengthening the existing security measures in the state for adequate protection of lives and property

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

Crime

By Bolanle Adesida

A 54-year-old man identified as Adelani Oriyomi has been arrested at a tomb in Kere, Obada-Oko, in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State while allegedly exhuming a human skull.

In a statement made available to Newsmen in Abeokuta, Commander

of the State Community, Social Orientation, and Safety Corps, So-Safe Corps Dr Soji Ganzallo, said Oriyomi was arrested by the operatives of

the Corps at 2.35 am on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the officers who were on routine patrol observed the suspicious activity and spotted the suspect trying to hide.

When he noticed that the officers had left, Oriyomi resumed digging the tomb to retrieve a human skull and was apprehended.

On interrogation, he confessed that he was attempting to retrieve another skull to complete the number required for a money ritual preparation.

The Suspect also confessed that he had sold nearly ten skulls in the past and he was arrested for similar offences he committed at Ado-Odo which led to him being imprisoned for two years and a further six years and nine months at the Oba Correctional Center following another conviction in Obada-Oko.

Dr Ganzallo confirmed that the suspect and the recovered exhibit, a fully dried human skull have been handed over to the Nigeria Police, Obada Divisional Headquarters, for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He urged community leaders to thoroughly screen tenants and visitors to prevent harbouring undesirable individuals.

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

Crime

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Acting Head of the Audit Department, Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Idi Aba, Abeokuta, Mr Oluwaseun Adeniyi has reportedly committed suicide by jumping into a well in the Obantoko area of Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Head of Public Relations and Communication, FMC Abeokuta, Mr Segun Orisajo, who confirmed the incident expressed the Management’s condolences to the family of the deceased and the FMC Abeokuta Community, describing the deceased as a dedicated and hardworking member of staff.

Mr Orisajo explained that the incident occurred shortly after the late Adeniyi had dinner with his family.

He said the motive behind this tragic act remained unclear, adding that the deceased allegedly had a previous record of mental health challenges.

The head of Public Relations and Communication, FMC said the management of the centre used the opportunity to call for the need to increase awareness and resources for mental health support. 

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

Lifestyle

By Oluremi Olugbenro

The Ogun State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Yemi Sanusi has described the death of Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Mrs Adewunmi Onanuga, as a very big vacuum that will be difficult for the party  to fill.

Chief Sanusi made the remark when he led members of the Ogun State Executive Committee on a condolence visit to the family of the deceased  in Sagamu.

The APC Chairman said late Mrs Onanuga was an adorable and committed member of the party, who was diligent in the discharge of her duties, passionate and zealous especially in the area of empowering the youths, women and the vulnerable in Remoland and beyond.

Chief Sanusi also noted that the deceased’s contributions to the growth of the nation would not be forgotten forever.

He prayed Almighty Allah to grant her Aljanah Fridaus and give the family, mama, the children, the party and Ogun State the fortitude to bear this irreparable  loss.

Crime

By Abdulqadri Oyinlola

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested Sholola Kazeem in Owode-Egba for allegedly pouring hot vegetable oil on his wife and stabbing her in the head during a violent altercation.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ms Omolola Odutola, who made this known in a statement, explained that the incident occurred following a misunderstanding between the suspect and his wife, Sholola Mutiat, who live together in the Ring Road community.

The assault left the victim with multiple injuries, requiring her to be hospitalized at a private medical facility.

Members of the community reported the incident to the Owode Divisional Police Officer, DPO, prompting the suspect’s arrest.

Ms. Odutola confirmed that Kazeem is currently under investigation and will be charged to court soon.

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

News

By Abimbola Bamgbose

The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has granted approval for the 2023 and 2024 promotion exercises for eligible civil and public servants in the state.

A total of 26,764 personnel from junior, senior, and management cadres across the state’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, MDAs, are expected to benefit from the promotion process, which will be conducted exclusively through oral interviews.

In a statement issued by the State Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, the promotion exercise encompasses various categories of civil and public servants, including employees within the core civil service, teaching and non-teaching staff of government secondary schools, primary school teachers, and staff of state-owned boards, corporations, and agencies, such as the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, OOUTH. The exercise also includes provisions for upgrades and transfers.

Additionally, the Governor has approved the December 2024 combined confirmation tests and compulsory public service examinations for officers in junior and senior cadres. These assessments, organized by the Bureau of Establishments and Training under the Office of the Head of Service, aim to facilitate the career progression of eligible officers.

Expressing gratitude to the Governor for his worker-friendly initiatives, Mr Onasanya commended Prince Abiodun’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and professional growth of the state’s workforce. He called on civil and public servants to remain dedicated to their duties in reciprocation of the Governor’s support.

News

By Abdulquadri Oyinlola

Commissioner of Police Ogun State Command, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo has decorated the newly promoted senior officers within the command with a call on them to remain diligent and committed in the discharge of their duties.

Dr Ogunlowo made the call during the decoration of the officers at the Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.

The Police Commissioner who noted that the newly promoted senior officers had demonstrated exemplary skills and dedication in their respective areas of policing, described their elevation to the next rank as deserving

He urged the newly promoted officers to set high standards for themselves and seek continuous improvement by acquiring more knowledge and skills that would enhance their policing duties.

Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted senior officers, Oluwatosin Esther assured the residents of the state of better policing and expressed gratitude to the hierarchy of the Nigeria Police Force for the timely recognition of their contributions.

Among the newly promoted senior officers is the Command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola.

News

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The death has been announced of a popular socialite and businesswoman, the Iya Sunnah of Egbaland, Yewaland and Ogun State, Chief Khadijah Adebisi Edionseri, popularly known as “Cash Madam”.

The 89-year-old Madam Edionseri reportedly died on Sunday, 5th January 2025, following a brief illness.

A statement by Dr Adebayo Adebowale on behalf of the family indicates that the late women leader would be buried this evening at her Abeokuta residence, according to Islamic rites.

The late Cash Madam, during her active years in business, was praised by prominent musicians, including Evangelist Ebenezer Obey for her philanthropy, business acumen, and steadfast commitment to the socio-economic development of Egbaland and Ogun State.

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

Judiciary

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo wants the Public Complaints Commission, PCC, to rise to the challenge of meeting the needs of many helpless Nigerians seeking redress for their grievances against administrative injustice. 

Chief Obasanjo stated this when he received a team of the commission’s management, led by the Federal Commissioner in charge of Ogun State, Mr Morakinyo Akinleye during a courtesy visit to the Abeokuta residence of the former president.

Chief Obasanjo pointed out that the Public Complaints Commission was established as the middleman at a time when Nigerians had nowhere to lodge complaints about their grievances against the system, lamenting that about 50 years after the creation, people were still struggling to be heard.

The former president emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for the complaints commission to thrive and promised to always be of assistance where necessary. 

In his remarks, Mr Akinleye assured the former president that the commission had been repositioned and equipped with administrators to listen to citizens’ grievances, including complaints against officials in all organs of the government at the Federal, State and Local government levels.

The Ogun State Federal Commissioner explained that he had initiated moves for collaborations and strengthened existing partnerships with the relevant stakeholders to reinforce the Ombudsman ideals in the hearts of the people, adding that the need for a more accessible office was a challenge to the commission.

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

Security

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has called on security agencies to design and deploy workable strategies that would ensure adequate protection of lives and property during this Christmas period.

The governor made the call when he received the new Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Mr. Lanre Ogunlowo, who paid him a courtesy call in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

He commended the security agencies for ensuring peace and tranquillity, noting that, unscrupulous people are bound to take advantage of the period to cause security breaches in the state.

The Governor, while informing the new State police chief about the steps taken to secure the State and its people, said his administration reinvigorated the State Security Trust Fund to provide modern equipment and logistics to the security agencies, noting that this has helped make Ogun one of the most peaceful states in the country.

He emphasized the importance of inter-agency synergy, which he said has contributed to the peace being enjoyed in the state.

Governor Abiodun maintained that the State’s position as number three in Internally Generated Revenue would not have been possible in an atmosphere of insecurity, pointing out the issue of cultism, which is prevalent in some parts of the state, urging the new police chief to liaise with his colleagues from other agencies to find a final solution to it.

The first citizen of the state, commended the Inspector General of Police ,IGP, for deploying a highly intelligent and professionally sound officer to the state and equipping him with two Armoured Personnel Carriers, adding that the new CP’s practical training and qualifications have prepared him for the position.

While pledging to do all it takes to keep the State peaceful, the State helmsman assured that his administration would continue to support the State Police Command and other security agencies to maintain peace and order across the State at all times.

Speaking earlier, the new Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lanre Ogunlowo, said he is in the State to add value to what he met on the ground, assuring that with the support of the state government, cooperation from sister security agencies, and the additional Armoured Personnel Carriers given by the Inspector General of Police, he would work to secure the people and gain their trust.

Mr Ogunlowo appealed to the public to support police and other security agencies in achieving their mandates.

Lifestyle

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Non-governmental organisations, NGOs, in Ogun State have expressed support for the campaign efforts of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, towards sensitizing citizens to the dangers of social vices and creating awareness on security alertness among the people. 

Speaking during an advocacy walk in Abeokuta, to commemorate International Human Rights Day, representatives of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, as well as the Core Values Brigade said their collaboration with the NOA would enhance national peace and stability. 

At the event which is based on this year’s theme, ‘Our Rights, Our Future Now’, CDHR stalwart, Mr. Yinka Folarin maintained that ensuring peaceful coexistence among the people was a crucial aspect of respecting individuals’ rights while urging Nigerians to eschew tribalism and work together to make the country better. 

Addressing journalists at the event, the Deputy Director, of Planning, Research and Strategy, NOA, Ogun State, Dr Nkechi  Rotimi and her colleague in the Administration and Finance Unit, Mr  Augustine Ugbaja emphasized the need for Nigerians to be cautious of fraudulent engagements with promises of unrealistic returns on investment, but to prioritize legitimate and sustainable means of wealth creation.

The mobilization experts equally encouraged parents to instil positive values in children and promote healthy family relationships and systems that would assist in building a more peaceful and resilient society.

Participants in the advocacy walk engaged road users, traders and residents in various enlightenment activities during the parade which commenced at the OPIC Roundabout and proceeded through Oke-Ilewo to Panseke Roundabout in the state capital. 

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

News

By Adebola Ajayi

Take advantage of the Nation’s cultural and ethnic diversity for its overall development, rather than allow it to divide them.

This was the submission of the Ogun State Director, National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mrs Olufunke Salako while she led the management team of the Agency on a familiarization visit to Radio Nigeria Paramount FM, Abeokuta.

Mrs Salako who noted that, National unity was non-negotiable, stressed the need for people to embrace patriotism, tolerance and hardwork, as part of effort to support the government in Nation building.

The NOA State Director maintained that National development required collective effort, and solicited the collaboration of Radio Nigeria Paramount FM Abeokuta, on the Agency’s sensitization and orientation programmes on National issues for the people of Ogun State.

Responding, the General Manager, Paramount FM, Mr Akinyinka Akintola pointed out that, the Station was committed to disseminating informative, educative and entertaining programmes, despite many constraints facing it.

Mr Akintola who expressed the readiness of the Station to partner the NOA in the sensitization of the people on government policies and programmes, gave the assurance that Radio Nigeria would continue to liaise with relevant stakeholders in the quest to uplift the people and unite the Nation.

Health

No fewer than 37 deaths have been recorded in the current Cholera outbreak, which has hit 30 states, including Lagos and Ogun.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, in a statement on Thursday by the Director of Public Affairs in the state Ministry of Health, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, said the state had recorded an additional six cholera deaths as against the previous 15.

She said cholera cases had risen to 401 in the state.

On her part, the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, told one of our correspondents that the state had recorded one death and 14 cases.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, in its recent report, said from January 1 to June 11, 2024, over 1,141 suspected and over 65 confirmed cases of cholera, resulting in over 30 deaths, had been reported from 96 local government areas in 30 states.

With the six additional deaths in Lagos, and one death in Ogun, the fatalities are no fewer than 37.

On Tuesday, the World Health Organisation, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and the International Organisation for Migration held an emergency meeting in Lagos over the cholera outbreak in the country.

Cholera is a food and water-borne disease caused by ingesting the bacteria— Vibrio cholerae— in contaminated water and food. Cholera can cause severe acute watery diarrhoea, and the severe forms of the disease can kill within hours if left untreated.

In Nigeria, cholera is an endemic and seasonal disease, occurring annually mostly during the rainy season and more frequently in areas with poor sanitation.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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

Health

 

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Cholera outbreak has claimed one life in Ijebu Igbo area of Ogun State while 5 others have been hospitalized.

The outbreak, which reportedly happened early this week , was confirmed to have claimed the life of a 62 year old woman who allegedly contacted the deadly disease while catering for her infected child.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker who confirmed the incident said it was recorded at Ijebu-Igbo in Ijebu-North local government area of the state.

Also, the State Chairman, Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Dr Kunle Ashimi while speaking with journalists in Abeokuta expressed condolences to the affected families, noting that the NMA was on high alert and the government had provided a contact number for reporting new cases among other measures.

The local government area and two others, Abeokuta South and North had witnessed cholera outbreak last year, affecting 236 persons and claimed 12 lives within one month.

Sport

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Team Ogun State have emerged winner of the male category of the Southwest under 14 basketball tournament organized by Hoop Dreams Nigeria to mark this year’s children’s day.

Team Ogun defeated Team Osun State 24-19 in a pulsating final that trilled the spectators who watched the game at the Basketball court of Lekan Salami sports complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

In the female category, Team Ekiti state was declared winner by the organisers after back to back victories over Team Osun state and Team Oyo state.

Our correspondent reports that Ikechukwu Igor of Team Ogun clinched the Most valuable player of the tournament in the male category, while Damilola Bakare emerged the Most valuable player in the female category.

Speaking after the tournament, Coaches of Team Ogun and Osun States, Martins Akindele and Taiwo Ajibola appreciated the organisers of the tournament, noting that it would help develop basketball game in Nigeria.

Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Hoop Dreams Nigeria Basketball academy, Mr Damola Awosika said the tournament was aimed at identifying young talents and grooming them to becoming future stars.

Mr Awosika, who said this year’s tournament was the ninth edition, noted that the academy also organizes a weekly basketball tournament to discover new talents.

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

Sport

By Olusegun Folarin

Over fifty cyclists from three states in the southwest region of the country have converged on Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital to participate in the maiden edition of National Cyclists Parent Forum Competition.

Speaking at the flag-off of the competition in Abeokuta, the Cycling Head Coach in Ogun State, Mr Kamoli Amao explained that the competition was organised with support of the parents to celebrate the 2024 Children’s day.

Coach Amao noted the cycling competition was also put together to prepare the young athletes ahead of the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State later in the year.

The Ogun State Cycling Head Coach, who noted that the development of sports at the grassroots level should not be shoulder on government alone, commended the efforts of the parents and other stakeholders towards making the competition a huge success.

Some of the parents including, Messers Gafar Odebiyi, Marcus Ugboduma and Michael Adeniyi said the competition was needed to discover talented young athletes that would replacing the ageing ones.

A four-year-old Olanma Ugboduma who emerged overall best in the kids’ category said her desire was to bring laurels to the country at international competitions.

Other athletes who took part in the cycling competition including Amao Malik, Shindara Adeleke, Ibidun Odebiyi and Azeezat Amirah thanked their parents for encouraging them to participate in maiden of the cycling competition.

Highpoint of the competition was the presentation of medals, books and certificates to the athletes.

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

Infrastructure

By Olusegun Folarin 

A 14 – day demolition notice has been issued to owners of structures and other facilities located on the right of way for the proposed earth road from Itoku Market to Igbore, Igbein and Imo communities in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

The Executive Secretary, Itoku Market -Igbore – Igbein – Imo Townships Road Construction Committee, Mr Gafar Aroyewun who made this known to journalists in Abeokuta, emphasized that the ultimatum would lapse on Monday, 27th May 2024.

Mr Aroyewun in a statement titled “Final Notice For The Demolition of Illegal and Dilapidated Structures Along The Proposed Earth Road From Itoku Market to Igbore, Igbein and Imo Townships” said the decision was approved by the authorities of Abeokuta South Local Government. 

He explained that the past and present Local Government authorities had held series of meetings with stakeholders, including township chiefs, community leaders and representatives of the areas Community Development Council while the affected structures identified in the past had also been marked again recently.

The Executive Secretary, Itoku Market -Igbore – Igbein – Imo Townships Road Construction Committee who restated that the Road Construction Team would move to site at the expiration of the notice also solicited the people’s cooperation and support for the successful execution of the project.

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