Labour

Hardship: Ondo, Oyo, Ogun Workers Join Nationwide Protest

By Web News 381

By Isaac Afolabi, Olubunmi Agboola, Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Ondo State Union leaders today joined their counterparts nationwide to protest against the current economic hardship in the country.

Addressing the peaceful protesters who stormed the governor’s office, Alagbaka Akure for the two days warning strike, Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele while appreciating the peaceful conduct of the protesters said the government was aware of the current situation and working to ameliorate the hardship.

Pastor Ogundele said the federal government was currently implementing policies to make life more meaningful for workers.

Speaking on the state government interventions for Ondo state workers, the head of service said part of the palliative programs included the thirty-five thousand naira wage award for workers, payment of pension arrears for retirees and free transportation for workers among others.

Pastor Ogundele further announced that health workers in the state would soon start receiving their hazard allowances from the 1st of  March 2024.

Responding, the  Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC Ondo State Council, Comrade Victor Amoko appealed to federal and state governments to quickly introduce policies that would better the lives of Nigerians.

While frowning at the high cost of living in the country, Comrade Victor Amoko called on the Ondo State Government for more interventions. 

Our correspondent further reports that NLC affiliate unions including the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Nigeria Union of Teachers, and NUT were present during the peaceful protest.

Oyo Workers Storm Streets

Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in Oyo State on Tuesday, stormed major streets in Ibadan to express their grievances over the current economic hardship in the country. 

The protest which started around 9 a.m., witnessed a large turnout of workers in the state who trekked from the NLC secretariat to Gate, Total Garden and the state secretariat.

Receiving the governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde appealed to the workers that their agitations would be taken to the President and provided solutions as soon as possible

Reacting, the state chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress in Oyo State, Mr. Kayode Martins said the level of poverty, hike in price of foodstuffs and insecurity bedevilling the country was unbearable.

The protest is expected to continue tomorrow.

Ogun Workers Lament Hardship

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ogun State chapter has joined their counterparts across the country to protest the prevailing hardship in the country occasioned by fuel subsidy removal and skyrocketing prices of goods, particularly food items.

Protesters who converged on the NLC Secretariat, Leme, Abeokuta and moved through the NNPC road to Kuto Round about chanting solidary song, also displayed placards with inscriptions, like “Let the poor breathe “, “Stop importation of petrol” and “fix refineries now”. 

The leadership of the NLC disclosed that the two-day rally slated for Tuesday and Wednesday was to compel both the federal and state governments to tackle the problem of insecurity, hunger and the continued rise in poverty across the country.

Speaking with journalists, the Chairman of Ogun State NLC, Comrade Hammed Ademola-Benco said that the rally was hinged on getting good deals for Nigerians and not to confront the government.

“The wage award that they promised is still not being paid by many states, the government must stop carrying on as if all is well. We are only calling on the government to be responsible and attend to our demands which is about making lives more rewarding and enjoyable for the people” he stated. 

The Chairman described the industrial action as very successful, claiming that the leadership of the 40 affiliates of the union in Ogun State turned out to participate in the peaceful rally. 

The National Vice President, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, Comrade Yinka Folarin while speaking at the event appealed to the government to live up to the expectations of the renewed hope agenda and come to the aid of the common man in the country.

The security agencies such as the police, DSS and operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC were on the ground to maintain law and order.

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Lifestyle

Eminent Nigerians Grace Akeredolu’s Funeral Service

By Web News 589

By Isaac Afolabi

President Bola Tinubu says former Ondo State governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was a courageous man whose life impacted the people positively.

The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented President Bola Tinubu at the event.

Addressing the large number of sympathisers at St Andrews Church Imola Owo, President Bola Tinubu represented by the vice president Alhaji Kashim Shettima said the late Akeredolu devoted his life to the service of humanity.

Alhaji Kashim Shettima declared that the event was to celebrate an icon in all spheres of life blessed with vision and an outspoken prowess for development.

Earlier, Ondo state governor Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa while highlighting some of the legacies of his late boss appreciated late Akeredolu for allowing him to serve.

In a sermon with the theme ‘Brevity of Life’ from the book of Revelation 7:9, most Reverend Blessing Enyindah called on political officeholders to live a life of purpose.

Reverend Enyindah appealed to the federal government to urgently provide urgent solutions to the various economic challenges such as corruption, poverty and insecurity.

 Dignitaries who joined Governor Aiyedatiwa and the immediate family of late Mr Akeredolu with his wife, Chief Mrs Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, were Governors of Lagos, Ogún, Osun, Edo, Benue, Bayelsa, Kwara, Oyo, Enugu, former Ondo state governor Olusẹgun Mimiko serving ministers and other political office holders.

Governor Akeredolu who was born in Owo on the 21st of July 1956 died on December 27th 2023 in Germany.

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Crime

Navy Deploys Helicopter to Combat Kidnapping in Ondo

By Web News 417

The Nigerian Navy has expressed its readiness to combat all forms of crimes and criminalities in the riverine areas of Ondo State, specifically in Ilaje and Ese Odo Local Government Areas of the state.

The military revealed that a helicopter had been deployed in the areas to extend the “line of sight of surface assets by carrying out over the horizon targeting and passing useful information to surface assets.”

The Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, Igbokoda, in Ilaje LGA, Captain Wasuku Alushi, stated this, on Thursday, while speaking on the successes recorded by the base in the area of checkmating crimes in its mandate area.

According to him, the helicopter had been deployed and it was going to be working in the environment until “we are able to arrive at a reasonable conclusion as far as kidnapping and sea robbery is concerned in this area.”

Wasuku said, “All the riverine communities are in focus, but the emphasis would be laid on Araromi Waterside, Aberike, Idiogba, Awoye, Skelewu down to Ese-Odo local government area, specifically, Safa-Arogbo and Agagba.

“After the attack on the illegal refineries was launched as well as the arrest of MT Vinnalaris 1 Lagos, crude oil production in the area has steadily improved. So, we have achieved so much success in terms of curbing crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering as well as illegal refining of petroleum products.

“Following these successes, we discovered that the criminal elements have now shifted to kidnapping and sea robbery. You know there is a nexus between kidnapping, sea robbery, crude oil theft, or illegal bunkering as they are all perpetrated by the same criminal cartel.”

The naval boss also disclosed that a large illegal refining site at Araromi Sea-Side was discovered about six weeks ago, leading to the clampdown on some oil thieves. He noted that the move had positively improved crude oil production in the area.

“Following the criminals’ switch to kidnapping, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan directed, that we initiate a fresh operation under the overall mandate of operation ‘Delta Sanity’, to checkmate the rising cases of kidnapping and sea robbery in FOB Igbokoda area of responsibility.

“A few days ago, a serious water wave crime occurred between Idiogba and Awoye community ( in Ilaje LGA ) where a petrol station attendant was kidnapped and an undisclosed amount of money was carted away by the criminal elements.

“Two days after, based on credible intelligence, Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, FOB, Igbokoda, traced the water wave kidnappers to a location close to Abereke where a suspect was arrested with incriminating evidence, like ammunition in his possession. That suspect has been transferred to one of the security agencies for further interrogation and investigation.

“So far, he has been able to make some very useful revelations that would help us in planning for future operations. We will continue to track the kidnappers to ensure the rescue of the girl.”

He enjoined the people of the area to always cooperate with the navy to enable the military to carry out their lawful activities in the maritime environment without intimidation from any quarter.

In recent times, Ondo state has become one of the targets of kidnappers in carrying out their activities,

Two weeks ago, the state Security Network Agency also known as Amotekun arrested 43 suspected criminals across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state following the abduction of occupants of an 18-seater bus.

The suspects believed to be bandits, killed the driver and left only a three-year-old kid in the bus along the Akunnu-Ayere Road at the border of Ondo and Kogi states.

Punch/Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Human Angle

Ondo Pays Last Respect to Akeredolu

By Web News 21897

By Isaac Afolabi

Sympathisers, family members, government functionaries and the entire people of Ondo State have paid tributes to the former governor late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu at the second leg of the burial rites commencing in Akure the state capital.  

As early as eight o’clock in the morning, students and residents lined the streets of the state capital to receive the remains of the former governor in a dark brown casket.

Thereafter the casket was taken to the governor’s office for the lying in state.

Addressing the people Governor Lucky Aiyedatwa described Mr Akeredolu as a passionate leader whose impact heralded developmental projects.

Governor Aiyedatiwa recounted the outspoken charisma of his late boss for saying the truth advocating fairness and security of his people.

In their separate tributes,  CAN chairman Ondo state chapter Reverend Anselam Ologunwa and a former lawmaker Mr Toluwani Borokini said the late Mr Akeredolu left a remarkable impact which would never be forgotten.

Some others described him as a courageous man whose impact touched lives.

The body of late governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was also taken to the Ondo state high court for a special court session being a lawyer a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association and as well a former attorney general and commissioner of justice in the state after which it was taken to the state sports complex for another lying in state for state burial.

Among those who joined Governor Ayedatiwa at the ceremony included the immediate family members of the late governor,  chairman of the Nigeria governor’s forum and Kwara state governor Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, Governor Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State, former Ondo State governor, Dr Olusẹgun Mimiko, deputy governors of Ekiti, Oyo, Sokoto, lawmakers, political appointees among other sympathisers.

Late Former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu will be laid to rest on Friday this week at his country home in Owo even as the state government already declared a two-day public holiday for Thursday, 21st and Friday 22nd February 2024 for the burial rites in honour of the former governor.

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Economy

Welfare of Senior Citizens our Priority – Gov. Ayedatiwa

By Web News 370

By Isaac Afolabi

The Ondo State Government says it is committed to the welfare of senior citizens in the state with prompt payment of their monthly stipends and payment of Gratuities 

 Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa made this known at the commencement of payment of one point two billion naira gratuities to the year 2014 pensioners in Ondo State.

The event which took place at the cocoa conference hall governor’s office in Alagbaka Akure witnessed a large number of senior citizens who were full of appreciation for the gesture.

Represented by the Chief of Staff Chief Olugbenga Ale, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the state government decided to pay the 2014 Gratuities in full into the personal accounts of the retirees instead of the usual issuance of cheques to avoid any form of manipulation.

Earlier, the Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele while appreciating Governor Aiyedatiwa told the senior citizens that the gratuities paid would not in any way affect their monthly stipends.

Responding on behalf of other pensioners, Mr Moses Olofigoroye thanked the state government for what he described as unprecedented.

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Politics

Ondo PDP Suspends Chairman

By Web News 339

By Olumide Abudu

The state working committee of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Ondo has announced the suspension of its chairman, Alhaji Fatai Adams, over alleged anti-party activities.

According a to communique signed by nine members of the party’s state working committee, made available to newsmen, the suspended chairman is also alleged to have engaged in activities likely to bring the party to disrepute.

Alhaji Adams was also advised to present himself before a disciplinary committee within the next week.

Meanwhile, the suspended Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Ondo State, Alhaji Fatai Adams says his alleged Suspension Plots were Politically Motivated.

Alhaji Adams in a telephone interview with Radio Nigeria described the purported suspension by some of the State Executive Council members of the party as illegal and unfounded 

He emphasized that it was a plot to remove him so that they could hatch their plans for the Akoko North East/North East Federal Constituency Bye-election.

While stating that he remains the chairman of the party in the State, he maintained that the party will not be taken over by unscrupulous elements who are out there to destroy the democratic values which the party is known for.

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Politics

Lucky Aiyedatiwa Sworn in as Ondo Governor

By Web News 274

The Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has been sworn in as the governor of the Sunshine State.

The swearing-in was held at the Cocoa Conference Hall in the governor’s office in Akure, the state capital and was administered by the chief judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola at 5:18 pm.

“It is with a heavy heart that I accept this honorous responsibility of taking over the reins of governance  and affairs of our state after the unfortunate loss and passing of our beloved governor and leader and my dear principal Arakurin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu,” Aiyedatiwa said in his opening remarks as the number one citizen of the state,

Present to witness the swearing-in are other judges and top government officials, including the secretary to the state government and members of the state cabinet, the state All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman and members of the state house of assembly.

Security officials gathered at the government house to witness the swearing-in of Aiyedatiwa as Governor of Ondo state

Aiyedatiwa’s walk to becoming the governor of Ondo State was a long one that lasted one year since Akeredolu suffered health challenges before he eventually succumbed to the claws of death on Wednesday in faraway Germany where he was being treated for prostate cancer.

Channels News/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Lifestyle

Akeredolu: Adeleke Condoles Family, Ondo

By Web News 299

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has described the death of his Ondo State counterpart, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), as a huge national loss.

Governor Adeleke, in a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, expressed shock at the news, saying Arakunrin Akeredolu made great contributions to Nigeria in the legal field and public service.

The Governor said Arakunrin Akeredolu was one of the finest minds in the country’s legal profession, and as a member of the Governor’s Forum, his wise counsel and constructive contributions will be missed.

Governor Adeleke condoles with the Acting Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the family of the deceased, the Government and the people of Ondo State over the painful loss, urging them to keep his memory alive by sustaining his legacy of good deeds and impacts.

“In this moment of grief and pain, I offer my deepest sympathy to everyone touched by Arakunrin Akeredolu’s demise and pray to God to grant him eternal rest while hoping for his immediate family, the government and the people of Ondo State that he left behind find comfort in the life full of accomplishments that he lived.”

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Lifestyle

NGF, APC, CAN, Others Mourn Akeredolu

By Web News 238

By Iyabo Adebisi/Oluwakayode Banjo

Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has expressed sadness on the death of Ondo State Governor Olurotimi Akeredolu (SAN), describing him as an exceptional statesman who made indelible marks in public service.

The forum commiserates with the Progressives Governors’ Forum, the government and people of Ondo State, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), as well as the immediate family of the late Governor of the Sunshine State.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye described the loss as painful and urged all to take solace in his fine legacies as a gentleman and statesman and prayed to God to repose his soul and look after his family.”

Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday described the death of his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu, as tragic.

Akeredolu succumbed to leukaemia in Lagos on Wednesday. He was 67.

In his condolence message to the acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the family of the deceased and Ondo people, Prince Abiodun described Akeredolu, who until his death was the chairman of the South West Governors Forum, as a dogged fighter throughout his lifetime.

According to him, Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) stood for equity and fairness in the run-up to the 2023 presidential election when he was the chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum.

Prince Abiodun said Akeredolu was a visionary leader with an unwavering dedication to his people and social justice.

Abiodun said: “Akeredolu made an indelible mark on Nigerian politics. From his tenure as the chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association to his role as the chairman of the South West Governors Forum, he continuously championed the cause of justice and the upliftment of his people.

“Known for his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Ondo citizens, Akeredolu spearheaded major initiatives that brought about positive change. Under his leadership, the state witnessed significant advancements in healthcare, infrastructure, and education. His commitment to sustainable development earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and citizens alike.

“As the nation mourns the loss of a formidable leader, Rotimi Akeredolu’s memory will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. His legacy of compassion, justice, and progress will endure, forever reminding Nigerians of the transformative power of dedicated leadership.

“In this time of immense grief, the people of Ondo State must unite, draw strength from their cherished memories of their late governor and resolve to honour his legacy by building upon the foundations he laid, ensuring that his vision for a better and brighter future for Ondo State lives on.”

Members of the Nigeria Political Project and Legal Profession have been reacting to the death of the governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu SAN who passed on in a German hospital. 

Some notable personalities, who spoke with Radio Nigeria Correspondent, Iyabo Adebisi described the death of Governor Akeredolu as unfortunate especially when the country and the Ondo state need him. 

According to the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial district at the National Assembly, Sharafadeen Alli, Governor Akeredolu was a patriotic Nigerian who was passionate about the progress of the country. 

Senator Alli said the late Akeredolu contributed greatly to the legal profession when he was the president Nigeria Bar Association, NBA. 

Also Speaking, a legal icon, Niyi Akintola, SAN, who noted that the late Akeredolu was his colleague and confidant, described him as an ‘Omoluabi’ in the real sense of the Yoruba mantra. 

Mr Akintola, SAN, stated that the deceased believed in justice saying the role he played in the invasion of herdsmen in the Yoruba land and the Owo massacre of hundreds of people where he hailed from could not be forgotten in a hurry. 

In the same vein, Oyo APC has described Akeredolu as a champion of democracy.

The Party said Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s, SAN, death was unfortunate given his contributions to society as it concerns humanity, democracy and good governance.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC commiserated with Mrs Betty Akeredolu as well President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and the good people of Ondo over the transition of Arakunrin Akeredolu who, according to the party, died at a time his services was still needed by his people.

“Arakunrin Akeredolu made a great impact in many ways as he was a dogged fighter, astute legal practitioner and patriotic democrat who would not spare any effort to promote justice and fairness at all times regardless of the risk involved. There is no doubt that he would be sorely missed by all and sundry. Therefore, we pray God to grant him eternal rest and give his family and the good people of the Sunshine State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.” Oyo APC stated.

Also, the Chairman, Ondo State Christian Association of Nigeria, Very Revd. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa has described the death of Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State as a colossal loss to the state and Nigeria as a whole.

A statement from the director of information and communications of the association, Mr Daisi Ajayi said, Fr. Ologunwa expressed shock to have received the sudden news of the death of the Governor.

Fr. Ologunwa described Governor Akeredolu as a great fighter of democracy, and a dedicated and loving father of all.

According to him, the Governor had exhibited several outstanding qualities during his tenure of administration ranging from the establishment of Amotekun security outfit and his stand on the unity of the country.

The chairman affirmed that Akeredolu is well noted for his firmness in decision-making making is usually called, ” Mr Talk and Do” Governor.

He also identified various infrastructural development his administration embarked upon ranging from roads, buildings and other social development across the state.

Fr. Ologunwa said his death will no doubt bring about a vacuum in the state but however optimistic that with God all things are possible.

The chairman condoled with the people of the state and the immediate family of Akeredolu for the irreparable loss of the Governor and prayed to God to grant him eternal rest.

Gov. Akeredolu reportedly died in Lagos on Wednesday following months of intense battle with leukaemia. Until his death, he was serving his second term in Office having won his election and reelection in 2016 and 2020 respectively.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, aged 67 was serving his second time in office before his death. 

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Obituary

Akeredolu Bids World Farewell

By Web News 233

Report reaching us indicates former governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu is dead.

Our correspondent in Akure says the news of the demise of the former governor was confirmed by some government sources, though still awaiting official declaration from the state government.

The governor was flown abroad for treatment over his medical condition in June and returned to Nigeria in September after months overseas but stayed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The late Akeredolu had last month handed over power to the deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, which would be his second medical vacation.

Akeredolu was elected for a second term in office in February 2021, which was, however,  stalled ailing health conditions.

The governor was aged 67 at the time of his demise.

Culled/Olaitan Oye-Adeitan/Simeon Ugbodovon/Taiwo Akinola

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Economy

Sunshine Food Processing Factory on Course – Aiyedatiwa

By Web News 457

By Olufisoye Adenitan

Ondo State Government says it is fully committed to the completion of the Sunshine Food Processing Company.

 Acting Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced this during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of Sunshine Food Processing, Mr  Ife Oyedele, 

The Sunshine Food Processing Factory is an egg powder plant inaugurated under a Public Private Partnership, PPP arrangement between the State government and the company.

Mr Ayedatiwa expressed his determination to ensure that the factory begins operations while the government creates an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Earlier, the Chairman of Sunshine Food Processing, Mr  Ife Oyedele disclosed that when completed, the factory would require five hundred thousand eggs per day noting that this would boost farmers’ earnings.

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Economy

Ondo Budget of Economic Resilience Scales Second Reading

By Web News 326

By Augustina Okinedo

The Ondo State 2024 budget proposal has scaled through a second reading at the House of Assembly.

The budget was thereafter committed to the Committee on Finance and Appropriation.

The Speaker, Mr Olamide Oladiji then directed that all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies to liaise with the committee for budget defence.

 Acting Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa had presented a budget proposal of 384.5 billion for the 2024 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly.

The budget is tagged BUDGET OF ECONOMIC RESILIENCE and infrastructural development.

It has one hundred and seventy-two billion, five hundred and eighteen million, three hundred and fifty-three naira only as recurrent expenditure while 

two hundred and twelve billion, fourteen million, eight hundred and fifty-nine thousand, six hundred and forty-seven is for capital expenditures.

According to Mr Ayedatiwa, it will be funded majorly from the statutory allocation, VAT, grants, and IGR.  

He reiterated that if the current drive by all revenue-generating agencies, spearheaded by the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service was sustained, the state would be able to attain the desired level of internal revenue generation.

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Politics

ODHA Receives Medical Leave Request from Akeredolu

By Web News 370

By Augustina Bajeh

The Ondo State House of Assembly says it has received a letter from Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu informing the House of his medical vacation abroad.

Receiving the letter on behalf of other lawmakers, the Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji said the Governor’s action is in line with Section 190 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

According to the letter, his Deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa would now assume the responsibilities of the Governor in an acting capacity until there is a written declaration to the contrary.

The leave is expected to commence on Wednesday, 13th December,2023.

Oladiji, who expressed appreciation to God for the speedy recovery of the Governor, expressed optimism that he would soon resume his duty.

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Governance

Akeredolu Commences Medical Leave on Wednesday

By Web News 269

By Isaac Afolabi

Ondo State Governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu will commence his medical leave on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, as a follow-up to his medical treatment.

A statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde says during the medical leave, Governor Akeredolu will prioritise his health and ensure a full recovery before resuming his official duties.

A formal letter regarding the medical leave and a notice formally transferring power in line with the Constitution will be transmitted to the House of Assembly.

In the absence of Governor Akeredolu, the Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will assume the responsibilities of the Governor in an acting capacity.

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Sport

Gunmen Attack Sunshine Stars on Ore-Benin Expressway

By Web News 474

By Isaac Afolabi

Sunshine Stars Football Club of Ondo players and other crew members survived an attack by gunmen yesterday.

The team was reportedly attacked along the Ore-Benin Expressway on their way to trade tackles with Bendel Insurance FC of Benin in a match day 13 encounter.

The team manager and the Ball boy attached to the team were reportedly seriously hit by the gunmen while other players sustained various degrees of injuries.

Speaking in a phone call with sports correspondent Isaac Afolabi, Media Officer Sunshine Stars FC Micheal Akintunde described the attack as a shock and a direct attack on the Akure-based team.

He however disclosed that the victims were currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.

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Politics

Update: We have not halted Aiyedatiwa’s impeachment process- Ondo Assembly

By Web News 321

The Ondo State House of Assembly has affirmed that the ongoing impeachment process against the deputy governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa has not been suspended as earlier reported in the media.

The Chairman, House Committee on Information, Mr Olatunji Oshati, on Friday, told a journalist that the House had halted the impeachment process after the state Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, had communicated to it his inability to constitute a panel to investigate the allegation against the deputy governor, following a court order.

He said, “We have considered the letter (of the CJ) which is everywhere in the public domain and we are halting the impeachment process until the order of the Federal High Court is vacated.

“It is not about being arrogant with power, it is about holding public officers accountable. It also shows that the process of impeachment transcends the monopoly of the legislature as we can see that the judiciary has stalled it.”

However, the House, through its lawyer, Mr Femi Emodamori, stated again that it had not suspended the process, saying it would pursue it to a logical conclusion.

This was contained in a statement issued by the legal practitioner on behalf of the Assembly, on Saturday.

The statement partly reads, “Impeachment is a constitutional process clearly outlined in section 188 (1)-(11) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and our Client has meticulously complied with all the stages leading up to the obligation placed on the state chief judge to set up a 7-man panel to investigate the allegations, as stipulated in Section 188(5) of the Constitution.

“The notice of allegations of gross misconduct was signed by 11 members of the House and presented to its speaker on 20th September, 2023 in strict compliance with Section 188(2) of the Constitution, which requires at least one-third of the 26 House members to sign and present the notice to the speaker. That is the first stage in the impeachment process.

“The speaker, in turn, served the notice on the deputy governor on 25th September 2023 and also caused same to be served on all the other members of the House, in strict compliance with the same Section 188(2) of the Constitution which requires him to do so within seven days. That was the second stage.

“The third stage, as stated in Section 188(3) of the Constitution, requires a two-third majority of the members to pass a motion within 14 days after the notice of allegation(s) of gross misconduct was first presented to the speaker, for the investigation of the allegation (s) and request the state chief judge to set up the 7-man panel to investigate same.

“Our client meticulously complied with the said Section 188(3) of the Constitution. 23 out of its 26 members (more than the minimum two-third majority required) passed that motion on the 3rd of October, 2023. Section 188(5) of the Constitution further states that after the motion is passed by the two-third majority, the speaker should formally request the state Chief Judge to set up the seven-man panel.

It added, “The speaker diligently complied with this on the same 3rd October when the motion was passed. It was at this stage that His Lordship, the Honourable Chief Judge of Ondo State, replied to the House, stating that he received an ex parte Order which the deputy governor secured from the Abuja Judicial Division of the Federal High Court on 26th September 2023, ‘restraining’ his lordship from setting up the panel, pending when the court would hear all the parties in the case to determine the merit of the application or the case filed by the deputy governor.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Section 188(10) of the Constitution clearly states that The proceedings or determination of the House or Panel or any matter relating to such proceedings or determination shall not be questioned or entertained in any court”, and there are too many judgments of the highest courts in Nigeria affirming that no court has the jurisdiction to dabble into an impeachment process, as long as the House of Assembly complies with all the constitutional process.”

“The Honourable Chief Judge himself stated in his widely reported reply to my client,  that his lordship was not unmindful of the above provisions of Section 188(10) of the Constitution and even quoted it verbatim.

“His lordship however stated that as a Chief Judge, he would prefer that the ex parte order, which his lordship believes ‘tied his hand’, should first be vacated or set aside. The chief judge prefers to err on the side of caution.”

The statement further stated that the position of the Assembly was that, despite their reservations about in the face of the provisions of “Section 188(10) of the Constitution and the judgments of the  appellate courts stating that no court has the power to question or entertain any matter relating to the impeachment, they would, for now, show sufficient understanding of the delicate position the Hon. Chief Judge has found himself, by promptly taking the necessary legal steps to vacate or quash the order and/or the entire suit at the Federal High Court, to untie  the hands of his lordship and proceed with the impeachment to a logical conclusion.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Politics

Ondo Assembly Halts Impeachment Process against Deputy Gov.

By Web News 430

The Ondo State House of Assembly said it had halted the impeachment proceedings against the state Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The House said it took the decision during its plenary session on Thursday following the refusal of the state Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, to set up a panel to probe the embattled deputy governor.

The Chairman, House Committee on Information, Mr Olatunji Oshati, who stated this on Friday, said the House would abide by the order of the court, hence the suspension of the proceedings on the impeachment.

He said, “We have considered the letter which is everywhere in the public domain and we are halting the impeachment process until the order of the Federal High Court is vacated.

“It is not about being arrogant with power, it is about holding public officers accountable. It also shows that the process of impeachment transcends the monopoly of the legislature as we can see that the judiciary has stalled it. This is to show that it is not a witch-hunt, it is about carrying out our oversight functions.”

The CJ had communicated to the Assembly on Wednesday informing it of his inability to set up the panel. The CJ was said to have cited a subsisting court’s ex parte order restraining him from carrying out the directive of the Assembly.

A source in the Assembly, who confirmed the development said, “The CJ has reached out to Mr Speaker that he cannot set up a seven-member panel to probe the deputy governor as directed by the House, claiming that his hands are tied by the ex parte order issued by Justice Emeka Nwite, stopping the impeachment process.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

NSCDC Nabs Two for Trafficking 15-Yr-Old Girl, 2 Others to Libya

By Web News 403

A 56-year-old carpenter, Babatunde Oluwasola and a trader, Dada Fowowe, have been arrested for trafficking a 15-year-old girl and two others to Libya for prostitution.

The suspects were arrested by the officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Ondo state.

They allegedly recruited the girls and trafficked them to Libya in April, this year with the promise of getting them lucrative jobs and live a better life abroad.

Babatunde, who is from Osun state but resides in Akure, reportedly got one of the victims through the help of Dada, aka lya Also, aged 47 he also, resides in Akure, the Ondo state capital.

Vanguard gathered that Babatunde with the nickname ” Osanle” transported the victims through the desert to Libya.

The victims spent two weeks before getting to Libya, where they were to start the illicit business.

One of the victims, the 15-year-old girl, who lived with her parents before embarking on the journey, discovered that she couldn’t cope with the business and later escaped.

She reportedly didn’t tell anyone about her journey to Libya until she arrived there and discovered that she had been deceived by the suspects.

Vanguard learnt that the 15-year-old girl discovered that what she was subjected to was not what she bargained for, hence she reached out to her father who had been looking for her.

The whereabouts of the two other girls remained unknown.

A spokesperson for the command, Aidamenbor Daniel, confirmed the arrest of the two Suspects.

Aidamenbor added that the ” suspects have already made confessional statements and after our investigation, the case will be transferred to NAPTIP for further actions

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

Governance

Ease Masses Burden, Akure Residents Tell Authorities

By Web News 401

By Bukola Bardi

On the occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary today, some residents of Akure, Ondo state have appealed to those in positions of authority to look inward and come up with policies that will truly ease the economic burden currently being borne by citizens.

In separate interviews in Akure, the residents said at sixty three, the journey of Nigeria so far could not be totally described as a success story owing to many challenges still facing the country.

One of them, the vicar, St Thomas’s Anglican Church, Isinkan Akure, venerable Thompson Akinboro said it was disheartening that many past Nigerian leaders did not rule with the fear of God thus plunging both the nation and her people in various challenges.

Venerable  Akinboro, however, stressed that all hope was not lost if the current set of leaders were able to right the wrong in all areas, including administering the people with the fear of God.

A pensioner,  Mr Femi Balogun described the journey of Nigeria in the last sixty three years as not too smooth nor rough but emphasised on the need for sincerity on the part of government.  

Mr Balogun suggested that rather than sharing rice and other food items as palliatives, the nation’s infrastructure should be improved upon while healthcare services be made totally free for children and the aged.

Also voicing his opinion on Nigeria at sixty three, A Deputy Director with public complaints commission in Ondo state, Mr Olorunfemi Akinaanu believed that with patience on the part of citizens, the present crop of leaders had the capacity to turn around the fortunes of Nigeria.

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Health

Bring your Children for Polio Vaccination, Ondo Govt Urges Residents

By Web News 355

By Bukola Badi

The Ondo State government says it will continue to invest in primary healthcare to ensure that the state retains its polio free status in the country.

 The Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka stated this in Akure while launching the September 2023 round of the National Immunisation Plus days scheduled to take place between Saturday, 30th September and Thursday, 5th October, 2023.

Dr Ajaka represented by the Permanent Secretary, Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Francis Akanbiemu noted that Ondo State recorded huge success in previous immunisation plus days and had made necessary arrangements to make sure this edition was not different.

The commissioner urged mothers and caregivers to present their children from age zero to 5yrs for the oral polio vaccine and Vitamin A supplement, which would be taken to churches, mosques, schools, houses and other public places by health workers in all the eighteen local government areas of the state.

The wife of Ondo State Governor, Mrs Betty Anyawu-Akeredolu called on local government chairmen, religious leaders, traditional rulers and health workers to intensify mobilisation activities for this round of national immunisation plus days in Ondo State.

Representative of the World Health Organisation in Ondo State, Dr Dele Davies stressed the importance of immunisation to child development and advised mothers to make their babies available for the exercise.

Two mothers, Mrs Oladunni Ajayi and Mrs Bosede Ayomide whose babies were admitted for oral polio vaccine and vitamin A supplement thanked government for making child and maternal health a priority in Ondo State.

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Politics

Ondo Assembly Debunks Alleged N5m Inducement for Deputy Gov. Removal

By Web News 421

As reactions have continued to surround the process of removing the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, by the state House of Assembly, a group, Ondo for Better Life, on Saturday accused the lawmakers of collecting N5m to remove the deputy governor.

The House has however dismissed the claim, saying it was a futile attempt to blackmail it. The House on Wednesday commenced the process of removing the deputy governor over allegations of gross misconduct when he acted for Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

The coordinator of the group, Mr Felix Lewis, who spoke in Akure, the state capital, on Saturday said, “We have good information and fact that they gave each of the lawmakers that support the impeachment N5m to carry out the job. The leadership of the House and some members of the state executive are coordinating the work. We know they may deny it but that is the fact. Let them come out and swear if this is not true.

“We know they will succeed but it is not good for the government of Akeredolu, being his second deputy after Agboola Ajayi and then another one will come. This is not good for our democracy in Ondo State.”

Meanwhile, the Majority Leader of the Assembly, Mr Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, denied the allegation, saying it was impossible to blackmail the House.

He added, “How will that (bribe) be possible? Don’t let us be talking about that one. It is cheap blackmail. The problem there is that we challenged him (deputy governor). There is an allegation and once you are confronted with an allegation, you come up with your facts and defend yourself.

“Moreover, Mr. Governor is not even interested in all these. What we are doing is still within our office and jurisdiction. So for me, there is an allegation before us, it carries somebody’s name, the person that occupied the office of the deputy governor, so we can’t put it under the carpet. We have to do the needful and push it to him. It is now left for him to look at it one after the other and defend himself.

“To say we were given N5m is blackmail and we won’t be blackmailed because we are doing our job.”

Meanwhile, a legal practitioner, Allen Sowore, has condemned the plan to remove the deputy governor, describing the allegations against him as bogus. He said the governor should rather have dealt with saboteurs in his government.

Sowore said in a statement, “I had expected Governor Akeredolu to reprimand those government officials caught in acts of insubordination – those who sabotaged governance in his absence. I mean those who made it impossible for Lucky Aiyedatiwa to assume full control of the government as Acting Governor while the governor was away attending to his health in Germany.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Entertainment

Fans Protest Mohbad’s Death in Ondo, Lagos, Ogun (Video)

By Web News 681

Spicy and Trendy

By Adetutu Adetule

Fans of the late hip hop sensation, Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely known as MohBad, took to the streets of Akure, the Ondo State capital, to express their solidarity with the grieving family of the departed singer.

Clad in black attire, the fans embarked on a procession along prominent routes, including Adesida and Arakale roads, culminating at the NEPA roundabout.

Their presence brought vehicular movement on one of the dual carriageways to a standstill for several hours, undeterred by an evening rain that nearly disrupted the march.

Throughout their journey, they chanted various songs in honour of MohBad’s memory, with placards which read, #JusticeforMohbad and #WhoOffLight among others.

The cause of 27-year-old Mohbab’s death is still unknown, and the Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has also invited the State Security Service to investigate the death, which has sparked controversy.

A state delegation, led by the Lagos Deputy Governor, also visited Mohbad’s family’

Comrade Ogundipe Oláníyì, the organiser of the solidarity walk, explained that the fans in Akure felt compelled to join their voices with other prominent Nigerians in condemning the singer’s death.

He called on law enforcement agencies already involved in investigating MohBad’s death to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry, seeking justice for the deceased.

Furthermore, Comrade Olaniyi offered valuable advice to aspiring musicians, urging them to exercise caution when selecting partners to further their careers.

The security agencies closely monitored the event to prevent any potential disruption of public order.

Similarly, over hundreds of youths took to the streets of Abeokuta, Ogun state capital, in a peaceful protest to demand justice over the mysterious death of singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

Mohbad, a signee of Marlian Records Company, died on September 12 in Lagos. He was 27.

Clad in black tee-shirts, the youth began the rally at Panseke area of the Ogun capital hoisting placards with inscriptions such as: “Justice for Mohbad’’, “Government must arrest `Naira Marley’ ‘’ and `Sam Larry’’ among others.

The cause of Mohbad’s death has been a subject of controversy since the tragic incident.

Some of the protesters told reporters that police must investigate the cause of the singer’s death and bring culprits to book.

One of them, Ayo Michael, said: “We are in pain! Mohbad must not die in vain. We want government to arrest anyone culpable.’’

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Politics

Ondo Assembly Denies Dep Gov Impeachment Plot

By Web News 350

Ondo State House of Assembly has denied reports that it planned to remove the Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

There had been rumours of an underground plot to impeach the deputy governor, whose media aides were sacked recently by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu upon his return from his medical vacation abroad.

Speaker of the Assembly, Mr Olumide Oladiji, said the House was not planning any move against the deputy governor, while describing the social media reports on the matter as false.

The speaker said, “There is nothing like that, you know the social media can write anything they like, but it is not true. Nothing like that is going on. As I am talking to you, I’m in Abuja for the Speakers’ conference. So, there is nothing like that.”

In the same vein, the Majority Leader of the Assembly, Mr Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, denied the report, saying, “Nobody is plotting any move to impeach the deputy governor. We are busy with what will bring development to the state. What is of importance to us is to carry out our duties.

Aiyedatiwa had on Friday denied signing any resignation letter, declaring that he did not resign from his position and had no intention of doing so.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Politics

Akeredolu Resumes Official Duties after Medical Vacation

By Web News 328

By Bukola Bardi

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has officially resumed work after a three months medical vacation in Germany.

The governor, who returned to the country on Thursday, transmitted a letter of his resumption to the State House of Assembly.

He performed his official duty after his return by meeting with some key stakeholders from Ondo State at his Law Hub, Ring Road, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where the governor had been since his return to the country.

Stakeholders present at the meeting included members of the State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Olamide Oladiji; members of the State Executive Council, led by the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; National Assembly members led by Senator Jide Ipinsagba; and Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Working Committee, led by the Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin.

During the meeting, Governor Akeredolu formally handed over his resumption letter to the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Olamide, and also provided a copy to the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who was in attendance.

Governor Akeredolu said:”I came back yesterday, and as you know, it was a long journey. I decided that I must meet with you today. God has answered our prayers, and we give Him all the glory.”

“I can assure you that our return is to the glory of God and the prayers of all of you here, and those who wished us well, I thank you very much. God has done what the majority of our people wanted. Majority of our people here knelt down and prayed for our return, and we have returned.

“So, because we had to land here in Ibadan first, I said I have to meet with House of Assembly members here. We are here, and we are back. I am back, and by the grace of God, I will be alive to complete my full tenure in office.

“I want to tell you that I am back, and I will resume work immediately. This is my letter of resumption”.

The Speaker, Oladiji, while responding on behalf of the lawmakers, expressed gratitude for the safe return of the Governor, stating that his return to the country is a prayer answered.

Governor Akeredolu, while meeting with members of the State Executive Council, informed them that he had presented his letter of resumption to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

He thanked the Executive Council members for their prayers and the good work they had carried out while he was away on medical vacation.

The Governor emphasised; ”We are now back, and we give God all the glory. I have to let members of the House of Assembly know first that we have returned. As of today, I’m back as Governor of Ondo State. We thank God that I am alive and here. It’s your prayers that have kept us here. The office of the Governor has resumed full work”.

Governor Akeredolu thanked the people of Ondo State for their ceaseless prayers and support during his recovery process.

He assured the people of his administration’s unwavering commitment to the progress and development of the state

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Environment

Ondo Monarch Leads Protest over Alleged Farmland Sale to Foreigners

By Web News 394

*Govt. Says Quit Notice Fake

Angry farmers in Ilua village in Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State, weekend staged a mass protest against the alleged sale of their cocoa plantations and other farmlands by the state government to foreign companies.

The protesters were led by the traditional ruler of Ilua, Oba Olalani Ibidapo.

The aggrieved farmers displayed placards with various inscriptions such as ‘This is another Slavery,’ ‘We say no to the destruction of our cocoa farms,’ ‘No Farmers, No Nation’, ‘We don’t want to steal, farming is our job,’ ‘Aketi should not sell our lands to Chinese,’ ‘They should leave us here to farm, we have nowhere to go,’ ‘Cocoa farm is our livelihood, don’t chase us out,’ ‘Cocoa farm is what we live on, don’t sell the lands to China.’

Speaking with newsmen, Oba Ibidapo, said: “There were some people who came to our villages and started erecting signposts that the state government has sold our farmlands and villages to Chinese and Indian companies.

“They said the state government has issued a notice that we should quit our farms and villages because the companies wanted to move in and take over our farms and villages.

“We have been here for over 100 years and we are here farming, no other things. I have more than 19 villages under me and they include Ilua, Laoso, Adejori, Logunofe, Keseomi, Obadore, Obakele, Ilua 2, Kangidi, Oloruntedo, Abayemisi and Magbaralewon among others.

“We are protesting against this policy and we also appeal to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to please consider our situation here.

“But I want the state government to take note that if they insist on ejecting us, there would be a problem. Many of the victims would turn to criminals.”

Also speaking, the chairman, Youths of Laje community, Laoso District, Ondo West, Mr Akinbami Philip said: “We are begging our governor to rescind this policy and order.

“We have graduates who have farms here; we want the government to leave us so that we would continue working on our farms. This is where we feed our families.”

On his part, one of the affected farmers, a graduate of Physics, Ademola Ajibola, told newsmen that he decided to venture into farming when he couldn’t get a job in the city.

Quit notice is fake —Ondo govt

When contacted to comment on the alleged ejection of the farmers, the Senior Special Assistant (Agric and Agribusiness) to the governor, Akin Olotu, denied the allegations.

Olotu said that the state government didn’t issue such quit notice and did not sell farms to anyone or foreign firms.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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