Politics

The Osun State House of Assembly has passed “Osun State Youth Development Commission Establishment Bill 2020” into law.

The Bill was passed during plenary of the state Assembly after the third reading motion moved by the Majority Leader of the House, Mr. Maroof Olanrewaju and seconded by Mr. Adirullai Adegbile representing Olaoluwa state Constituency.

In his remarks, the Speaker, Mr. Timothy Owoeye noted that the law would permit active participation of youth in government activities in the state.

Mr. Owoeye commenting on the rate of rape cases in the state, said the bill would assist to curtail the acts in the state.

While calling for life imprisonment for rapists and 14 years jail time for attempt, the Speaker said the law would check rape crime in the state.

He urged the youth to shun criminal activities and the idea of getting rich overnight.

The Speaker advised the youth to engage in entrepreneurial skills that would make them self-reliance.

Funmi Adekoya

News

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has confirmed all the screened nominees of Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSIEC sent to the Assembly for confirmation.

The nominees were confirmed during the plenary after a motion moved by the Majority Leader of the House, Mr Maroof Olanrewaju and seconded by member representing Atakumosa East/West, Mr Festus Komolafe.

The Speaker, Mr. Timothy Owoeye, in his remarks described the nominees as intelligent and capable of carrying out their duties in the commission based on their good record of previous performance.

He said the confirmation was in accordance with section 198 of Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

While advising the confirmed members of OSIEC to conduct free, fair, acceptable and credible elections in the state, the Speaker urged the Governor Gboyega Oyetola to go ahead with the swearing-in of the OSIEC members.

The confirmed OSIEC members are Mr. Segun Oladitan as Chairman, others are, Mrs. Abosede Omibeku, Alhaja Muibat Babalola, Mr. Oladosu Gidigbi, Mr. Rufus Oyeniran, Mr.Olayinka Ajiboye and Mr.Wahaab Adewoyin.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has passed the Osun Local Government Areas Creation and Administration Amendment No 4 Bill 2020.

The bill was passed during plenary at the floor of the House of Assembly Complex, Osogbo after a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Mr. Maruf Olanrewaju and seconded by member representing Atakumosa East and West, Mr. Babtunde Komolafe.

The Speaker of the House, Mr. Timothy Owoeye in his remarks said the bill would put an end to illegal impeachment of Chairman in various Local Government area of the state.

The Speaker noted that no parliamentarian has power to remove any council Chairman without petition to the State House of Assembly.

He urged the executive to urgently assent into the bill for the benefit of the people and entire state.

It would be recalled that the Clause 4 of the Osun Local Government Areas Creation and Administration Amendment Law had empowered the parliamentarians in the council to impeach a Chairman for misconduct which had led to impeachment of some council chairmen before the intervention of the House of Assembly.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has suspended all plenary and parliamentary activities for sixteen days.

This is to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus disease in the state.

At a press briefing held at the assembly complex, the Chairman, House Committee on Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Moshood Akande noted that with confirmed cases of 36 and one death by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, it is expedient for the assembly to suspend all gathering to prevent the possible spread of the deadly Coronavirus.

He urged residents of the state to observe all precautions of regular hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, observing social distance and avoidance of large gatherings.

Mr. Akande also advised the State Government under the leadership of Governor Gboyega Oyetola to strengthen its resolve in combating the menace and activate necessary emergency public health protocols.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has passed into law a bill for the prohibition of kidnapping, abduction of persons and other related crimes.

This follows the motion moved by Majority Leader of the House, Mr Maruf Olanrewaju for the third reading of the bill and seconded by member representing Ife North, Mr Tunde Olatunji.

The House recommended the death penalty for those found guilty of kidnapping and ritual killing, while those aiding and abetting the crime are to face life imprisonment.

In his remark, the Speaker, Mr Timothy Owoeye, said it now a crime to find human parts with anybody or engaging in kidnapping and abduction.

Mr Owoeye who noted that kidnapping and ritual killing have become issues of concern in the state said the signing of the bill into law would put an end to kidnapping, banditry and ritual killing.

While the commending his colleagues for their contribution to the passage of the bill, the Speaker said when the bill is signed by the governor, the punishment would serve as a deterrent to perpetrators and others.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, Mr. Timothy Owoeye wants the authority of the Nigerian Police Force State Command to give legal and moral support to the South-West Security Initiative “Operation Amotekun”.

The Speaker made the call while receiving the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Jonhson Babatunde with his entourage who paid a courtesy visit in his office.

Mr. Owoeye reiterated the commitment and readiness of the 7th Assembly under his watch to render necessary assistance geared towards enhancing efficient and effective policing.

He reminded the police boss that OSHA is currently working in ensuring a legal framework on Operation Amotekun Bill pointing out that Amotekun cannot work without the support of the Police Force.

He also used the avenue to inform the Osun State Commissioner of Police of the Anti-Kidnapping bill which the assembly is giving adequate consideration aimed at curbing the spate of the incessant kidnapping in the state.

The Speaker said the Assembly is set to organise a public hearing on Anti-Kidnapping and Operation Amotekun bills where stakeholders such as security outfits, opinion moulders, religious leaders, market women, and men will be able to donate ideas for the realisation of the bills.

Earlier, Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Jonhson Babatunde had explained that the purpose of the visit was to seek prompt and timely support of the legislative arm of the government, noting that they are the accredited representatives of the public.

The Police Commissioner said the Inspector General of Police is committed to the community policing hence pledged the readiness of the command to work assiduously for the realisation of the Operation Amotekun.

Funmi Adekoya

Crime

As victims of the fire outbreak that wreaked havoc at Atakumosa Market, Ilesa continue to count their losses, the Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, Mr. Timothy Owoeye wants residents to always take preventive measures to forestall a recurrence.

Mr. Owoeye gave the advice during an on the spot assessment of the damage caused by the fire incident.

Our correspondent Isaac Haastrup completes the story.

Isaac Haastrup

Politics

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, Mr. Timothy Owoeye has assured staff of the Assembly of good welfare and conducive working environment.

The Speaker, gave the assurance at the special prayer session to herald working activities in the Assembly in year 2020.

Mr. Owoeye who commended the staff for their commitment to duty last year advised them not to relent in giving their best in the discharge of their duties.

He noted that the state government is taking all measures to ensure prompt payment of salary and other allowances to the workforce, therefore, they should support all government policies towards developing the State.

Earlier, in a short exhortation, the Assembly Chaplain, Pastor Muyiwa Ayeni had admonished the staff to discharge their duty in the fear of God so they can excel in their various endeavours.

Also, the Imam of the Assembly Mosque, Alhaji Abdulfatai Adebisi in his message, called for love, tolerance and unity among the lawmakers and other staff for development and progress in the Assembly.

Prayers were offered to God for the staff, Lawmakers, House of Assembly, Osun State and Nigeria for peace, stability and progress.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has directed the parliamentarians of Osogbo South Local Council Development Areas to vacate their offices pending the outcome of the investigation of the Assembly.

The speaker, Mr. Timothy Owoeye at plenary held that sequel to the presentations of the Majority and Minority Leaders on the need to reconvene for the House to deliberate on matter of public interest, on the purported impeachment of Osogbo South LCDA Chairman.

Mr. Owoeye noted that the House after deliberations resolved that for peace to reign while it is carrying out its assignment on the impasse, the Council Manager of the affected LCDA should take over the affairs of the council.

He also urged that relevant security agencies should take note of the order of the assembly that the parliamentarians should not parade themselves within the premises of the Council, ensuring that peace of the public is guaranteed.

The House also resolved that the notification sent to the House by Osogbo South LCDA and that of Olorunda be committed to the House Committee on Local Government and Public petition to present their report within the stipulated time required by the law.

The speaker emphasised that the Local Government Creation and Administration Law of Osun 2015 section 19 (C) gives the assembly 7 days to look into the matter, stating that the House will work within the 7 working days stipulated by the law.

Funmi Adekoya

Religion

Nigerians have been urged to be their brother’s keeper and live in peaceful coexistence in the spirit of Christmas.

The Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Mr. Timothy Owoeye made the call during the Assembly Carol of nine lesson & Praise Night tagged “Xpression 01” in Oshogbo.

Mr. Owoeye maintained that the essence of the birth of Jesus Christ was borne out of God’s love for mankind to save them from eternal destruction.

He therefore advised the people to celebrate the love of God and not be carried away by the jamboree of Christmas celebration.

In his remark, the Osun State Governor, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola commended the Legislators for their support for the state government through their legislative activities.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Wole Oyebamiji, the Governor assured the people of Osun State of more developmental projects in 2020.

Also speaking, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Mr. Funminiyi Afuye who lauded the Osun Assembly for putting God first in all they do through the vigil of praise noted that God will always be available to make them legislate well.

Mr. Afuye said he would also replicate the night of praise programme at the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

The Carol & Night of Praise featured reading of nine lessons, song ministrations from invited choirs and gospel artistes while government functionaries, past lawmakers, ministers of God were also present at the programme which ended in the early hours of today.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

Commissioner and Special Adviser nominees have been advised not to see their position as a means to enrich themselves.

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, Mr. Timothy Owoeye gave the advice during the screening of Commissioners and Special Advisers by the Assembly in Osogbo, Osun State.

Mr. Owoeye said the nominees to the cabinet should work with the Governor to create policies that would enhance the living standard of the people of the state.

He urged them to use their wealth of experience in their various fields for the development of Osun State.

The Speaker maintained that the Assembly would not condone anybody that wants to undermine its constitutional right especially in its monitoring and oversight function of ministries’ activities.

The House at its plenary session screened ten nominees including Mr. Femi Akande, son of APC stalwart, Chief Bisi Akande and Mr. Adedayo Adewole, son of former Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole.

Funmi Adekoya

Politics

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has received thirty five names of nominees for Commissioners and Special Assistants as contained in a letter sent to the House by Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

This is coming after ten months of the Governor’s assumption of office in November 2018.

Reading the letter of the Governor during plenary, the Speaker, Mr. Timothy Owoeye directed the nominees to present thirty five copies of their curriculum vitae by Friday 27 September 2019 to his office through the Clerk of the House.

The Speaker also announced that screening of the nominees would commence on Monday 30th September 2019.

Out of the 35 nominees, six had served in the last cabinet of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

List of names of Nominees

1. Adebisi Obawale Simeon
2. Ibitoye Adeniran
3. Oladipo Amuda
4. Ajisefinni Abiodun
5. Mumini Adekunle Rafiu
6. Ogunfolaju Christian
7. Olanibi Segun
8. Agunbiade Nathaniel
9. Oladoyin Olayinka Folorunsho
10. Akeju Taiwo
11. Lawal Azeez Opeyemi
12. Olaonipekun Henry Olabode
13. Adeleke Yekinni Adebayo
14. Olamiju Olasiji
15. Yinusa Olalekan
16. Isamotu Rafiu
17. Bola Oyebamiji
18. Omowaiye Oluremi
19. Olawumi Jamiu Babatunde
20. Akande Oluwafemi Jimoh
21. Olawale Babatunde Olumide
22. Olaniyan Hussein Toke
23. Adeosun Rasak
24. Badmus Olalekan Rahamon
25. Bakare Akande
26. Latifat Giwa
27. Tadese Amidu Raheem
28. Adewole Adedayo
29. Lawal Tajudeen
30. Babalola Idiat
31. Kolajo Aderemi
32. Egbemode Funke Adenike
33. Kareem Ismail Akande
34. Oyegbile Rufus
35. Olaboopo Olubukola Radat

Funmi Adekoya

Health

People of Osun state have been urged to have maintenance culture so as to enjoy basic infrastructures provided by government.

Osun State Governor, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola made the call at the commissioning of Alajue-Oja Primary Health Center, Alajue-Ede, Ede South Local Government.

Represented by the Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Mr. Timothy Owoeye, the governor noted that the provision of the facility would enhance healthy living of residents of the state.

The governor noted that the revitalisation of Primary Health Centres was part of the administration’s programme geared towards delivering quality, adequate and affordable healthcare service for the people.

He advised the people to take their health seriously and patronise the hospitals and health centers for their own good.

Governor Oyetola said out of 332 health centers marked for renovation, upgrading and revitalisation, 100 have been completed for the use of residents at the grassroots areas. Fummi Adekoya

Politics

The Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, says it will organize a public hearing on Osun Kidnapping Prohibition Bill 2019.

The Speaker, Mr. Timothy Owoeye, who stated this during plenary session, said the hearing would give stakeholders the opportunity to contribute their opinion to the bill before passage.

The bill sponsored by the Speaker, seeks to address the issue of kidnapping in the state, proffer solution as well as decide sanctions for punishing kidnappers.

Also, the Speaker announced to the House the constitution of Adhoc committee to address the public petitions sent to the House pending the substantive inauguration of House Committee Chairmen.

The committee to be headed by the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Olufemi Popoola has five other members with the Director of Legal Services as Secretary.

Funmi Adekoya