Legislature

By Mojisola Oladele 

Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has passed the Osun State Consumer Protection Agency Establishment Bill 2025 into law.

The bill seeks to protect consumers from exploitation, ensure product safety and quality control, dispute resolution, education and awareness, economic growth among others.

The Majority Leader, Mr Kofoworola Adewunmi moved the motion for the passage of the bill and was seconded by member representing Osogbo, Mr Bamidele Lawal, during a plenary presided on by the Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun.

Prince Egbedun said the clean copy of the bill would be sent to the state governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke for executive assent.

Also, the Osun State Communal Crisis Management and Peace Building Bill 2025 scaled through its first reading.

The speaker admonished the lawmakers to study the bill in details in preparation for its policy thrust.

In another development, the OSHA invited the Osun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Jimi Bada to appear before the House tomorrow.

The House also dissolved into the committee of the whole for further consideration of Osun State Property Protection Bill 2024.

The Assembly also hosted students of Political Science of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

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Infrastructure

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has directed the contractors handling the dualisation of palace – brewery junction in Ilesa to ensure standard work and timely completion of the project.

Governor Adeleke during an impromptu inspection of the project directed the contractor to speed up the work and deliver on time.

“I am happy you are working continuously on the project but I task you to move faster. My good people of Ilesa are eager to start using this landmark road”, the Governor told the representatives.

The project engineer who was surprised at the sudden visit of the governor explained the stages of the work done so far, assured that the road would have reached appreciable level by next month.

He explained that the company is working according to standard and assured the project would not be delayed as it would be delivered on schedule. 

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News

By Mojisola Oladele 

Osun State House of Assembly has directed the House Committee on Security and Inter-Parliamentary Relations to investigate the cause of the crisis between Ifon, Erin Osun and Ilobu Communities.

The Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun who stated this during plenary held at the Assembly Complex, Osogbo, said the committee should do the required findings and report back to the House after five days.

The Speaker on behalf of the 8th Assembly sympathized with the people of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun over the recent communal clashes resulting from an age-long boundary dispute. 

Reacting to the communal crisis, the deputy majority leader, Prince Emmanuel Oladimeji, who expressed displeasure over the Incident called for the establishment of temporary shelters, the provision of relief materials and the deployment of necessary health and social personnel to cater for the injured as well as displaced individuals of the Communities.

In Separate remarks, a cross-section of lawmakers who described the incident as unfortunate, commensurate with the families of those who lost their lives and property during the Incident.

They urged the affected communities to allow for lasting peace, and to attain peaceful coexistence amongst the communities.

Earlier, the Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun, introduced a private member bill titled the Osun State Communal Crisis Management and Peace Building Commission for Related Matters before the House.

The bill, sponsored by a member representing Obokun State Constituency, Prince Adewumi Adeyemi, aims to establish a proactive, sustainable, and institutional framework for managing and preventing communal crises in Osun State.

However, the Speaker announced a seven-member committee to oversee preparations for the upcoming second anniversary of the 8th Assembly including, the Chairman, Mr Babajide Kofoworola, Mr Abiola Awoyeye as the Vice Chairman, Mr Tajudeen Adeyemi, Mr Bamidele Lawal, Mr Abiola Ibrahim, Mr Folorunso Ogundare as Members and the Clerk, Mr Simeon Amusan as the secretary of the Committee.

Meanwhile, the Osun State Market Authority Bill 2025 and the Osun State Victim Assistance and Witness Protection Bill 2025 scaled the first Reading.

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News

By Funmi Ojo

Osun state governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has visited the troubled areas of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun for an on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing communal crisis, reiterating his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and order.

The visit came in response to recent violent clashes between the affected communities, which had led to the loss of lives, destruction of properties, and tensions.

Accompanied by top government officials and security agencies, Governor Adeleke went around the communities to assess the extent of the damage and discuss possible solutions.

Addressing journalists, the governor expressed deep concern over the crisis saying that, his administration would not tolerate any form of violence or lawlessness.

He noted that the 24-hour curfew imposed on the communities had been effective and warned against further acts of violence. 

Governor Adeleke assured residents that security would be strengthened in the affected areas, directing law enforcement agencies to maintain order and prevent any further escalation.

He urged the residents to foster unity and discourage any actions that could cause tensions, emphasizing the importance of peaceful resolution and assuring that the state government would intervene to address the root causes of the conflict.

Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring that all communities in Osun state live in peace and harmony.

He promised to work with relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, local authorities, and traditional institutions, to prevent future occurrences of such conflicts.

With his visit, Governor Adeleke has demonstrated his proactive approach to governance, reinforcing his commitment to security, unity, and the well-being of all Osun state residents.

In a remark, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, Mr Yusuf said the security operatives were at the top of the situation and would not relent in their efforts to protect lives and properties in the area.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent, Funmi Ojo reports that residents of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun communities remained indoors as shops and markets were also under lock, with the presence of combined security personnel in some streets of the communities.

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Lifestyle

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has approved the setting up of a Panel of Enquiry into the recent chieftaincy dispute involving Esa-Oke and towns of Obokun Local Government area.

After the recent communal clashes, the governor had promised to set up the committee when he visited both Esa Oke and Ido-Ayegunle.

Governor Adeleke, who was accompanied to the towns by top state officials, frowned at the destruction of properties and vowed to dig to the root of the matter in pursuit of a final solution and resolution.

The panel is to be chaired by the Special Adviser to the Governor on House of Assembly Matters, Mr. Ropo Oyewole.

Other members of the panel include the Special Adviser to the Governor on security Matters, Mr. Samuel Ojo; a representative of the permanent secretary, Ministry of Justice; permanent secretary, Ministry of Regional Integration – Mr. M. O Oyedeji; Director, Staff Welfare, Public Service office, Mr. J. Amusan.

The Deputy Director, Chieftaincy affairs, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs. Adeola Ajekigbe is to serve as the panel’s secretary.

The terms of reference for the committee include determining the remote and immediate causes of the crisis which broke out on January 30, 2025 and recommending to the government measures that will bring about lasting peace in the area.

The committee is expected to submit its recommendation to the government within two weeks of its inauguration.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Dosu Babatunde has disclosed that the inauguration of the panel will be held on March 4th, 2025 at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Osogbo.

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Politics

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has ordered restriction of vehicular movement from 5am to 5pm on Saturday 22nd February 2025 across the state.

The directive of the governor was sequel to the state-wide local government elections that are scheduled to be held on Saturday across the state.

Governor Adeleke who reiterated his commitment to peace and security said the movement restriction is necessary to prevent importation of hoodlums into the state amidst local elections.

He therefore directed security agencies to enforce the restriction and only allow voters and accredited media and civil society organizations for the continued peace and security of Osun State.

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Labour

By Mojisola Oladele

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has directed members working in the Thirty Local Government Areas, LGAs of the State to withdraw their services with effect from tomorrow.

Dr Christopher Arapasopo who is the State Chairperson, gave the directive in a statement made available to newsmen in Osogbo.

Dr Arapasopo explained that, the Union had noticed the political uproar bringing agitations and fear amongst its members working within the Local Government Areas across the state.

While emphasizing that, the NLC is apolitical, the State NLC Chairperson explained that the Union would not allow its members to work in an atmosphere of insecurity.

He urged all the political parties and their members to abide by the rule of law to avoid a descent into anarchy.

Dr Arapasopo “we hereby direct all our members working in all the LGAs in Osun State to withdraw their services effective Monday, 17th February, 2025 by 12am.

Dr Arapasopo emphasized that its members would not return until their safety at work could be assured and guaranteed, in line with their constitutional rights.

He called on security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and properties within the State Local Governments and the public.

The Osun NLC Chairperson reiterated that the Union remained committed to defending the rights, welfare, and safety of all its members.

Sport

By Funmi Ojo

The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke says he is set to make the state have the best sporting facilities among its counterparts in Nigeria.

The Governor stated this in Osogbo, the state capital during the groundbreaking/ flag-off of the development and remodelling of the Osogbo Stadium sports complex.

The Governor, who decried the terrible condition of the stadium when he came on board, said this spurred him to make remarkable changes that can boost sports development in Osun.

He said that the project is not mere renovation but re-development and remodeling of the State Sports Stadium to attain global standards, emphasizing that when the project is complete, it will have the capacity to host various sporting events such as the National Sports Festival, National Youth Games and more importantly to host some of the national teams including Super Eagles in their various continental and International matches.

The remodelling of the stadium will include pitches for other games such as Volleyball, Swimming, Handball, Hockey, Basketball and a host of others. It will also have a befitting indoor sports hall, hostels for the athletes and a state-of-art 4-star hotel, to generate revenue into the entire project to ensure sustainability and short and long-term viability.”

Governor Adeleke stressed that to have a fully articulated sports development agenda, his administration is putting up institutional structures like the creation of the Osun Sports Commission, creating a Sport Trust Fund which according to him has reached the final stage. 

He assured that the welfare of sportsmen and women is paramount in his agenda as the Government has decided to reward all athletes who made the state proud at various championships. 

While advising the two state teams, Osun United and Osun Babes Football Clubs to do well in their various sports to encourage the government to do more for them.

Earlier in his address of welcome, the Deputy Governor who also doubles as the Commissioner for Sports, Prince Kola Adewusi commended the Governor for giving the sports promotion a priority. 

He explained that the reason for remodeling the stadium is to develop sports and talented young minds in the state, adding that when the work is completed, it will put sports into proper shape in Osun, just as he said Governor Adeleke has ordered that no political or religious activities should be allowed to take place on the main pitch.

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Politics

By Funmi Ojo

The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, is committed to ensuring that the upcoming Local Government elections scheduled for February 22 are conducted in a credible, free, and fair manner.

The Chairman of OSSIEC, Mr Hashim Abioye stated this at an interaction session with the Osun Chapter, League of Veteran Journalists at the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Secretariat in Osogbo.

Mr Abioye addressed concerns about ongoing litigations related to the electoral process, stating that while there are pending court cases, they do not hinder the commission’s preparations for the elections.

He emphasized the importance of starting from a solid foundation with the proper issuance of the notice of election, cautioning that any errors at the preliminary stage could undermine the entire process.

Despite the existence of legal challenges, the OSSIEC Chairman clarified that no political candidates have been disqualified, as rumoured since all participating parties have successfully conducted their primaries.

He also mentioned that the post-election tribunal is being established by the state’s Chief Judge and reassured that the development would not interfere with the electoral timeline.

Highlighting the importance of collective responsibility, Mr Abioye stressed that every stakeholder involved must work together to ensure the elections’ success.

To this end, he said guidelines and manuals have been provided to political parties, and consultations with legal professionals have been conducted to maintain adherence to legal and constitutional standards.

He called on political parties and stakeholders to collaborate with the commission in fulfilling its mandate to facilitate a credible election.

In a remark, the acting Chairman of the League of Veteran Journalists in Osun, Mr Adeyeye Oyedokun, praised OSSIEC for its transparency and commitment to conducting a successful election.

He also assured that the media would continue to support democratic processes by fulfilling its crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability.

Also Speaking, a retired Director of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Mr Emmanuel Agboola, emphasized the critical nature of election matters, which require comprehensive legal frameworks and open-door policies to ensure credibility and prevent violence.

Mr Agboola expressed hope that the success of the February 22 Local Government elections would serve as a model for other states

He urged OSSIEC to ensure an equitable electoral process by providing all political parties with a level playing field.

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Security

By Mojisola Oladele 

The Osun State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Dr Adekunle Omoyele has reiterated that the security of lives and property of residents remained its priority at all times.

Dr Omoyele gave the assurance during “The News Point,” a programme organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ in Osogbo, the Osun State Capital.

He emphasized that the Amotekun, whose primary mandate is to protect lives and property, would continue to collaborate with other security agencies to tackle all forms of criminal activities in the state.

Dr Omoyele who maintained that there is a robust relationship with other security agencies, noted that the Agency was not established to act as a rival agency, as being wrongly perceived by some groups, but rather established to compliment the activities of others.

While responding if his appointment as the head of the security agency was politically influenced, the state Amotekun Boss said his appointment by Senator Ademola Adeleke was major because they found him competent for the position.

They saw my efforts, cumulatively people addressed it, they said this man can do what we need, at a period Amotekun was deteriorating and when they called me, it is a call to serve,”  he said.

On the call for the establishment of state police by some people, Dr Omoyele said the creation of state police would help reduce crime in the remotest parts of the states across the nation.

Osun Amotekun Boss explains further “The historical existence of regional policing in Nigeria, that is, the state policing worked effectively in the past before its abolition, therefore reviving state police would enhance community-based security, as local officers would be better equipped to address local challenges “.

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Economy

By Mojisola Oladele

Osun State Government said N11,371,504,490 would be carved out from the N427,746,925,170.00 budget of 2025 to cater for the Agriculture, Commerce and Industry sectors.

The state Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget and Development, Professor Moruf Adeleke made this known to newsmen in Osogbo.

Professor Adeleke said that the Budget of Sustainable Growth and Transformation was crafted to fast-track the revitalization process of the sectors, to boost the economy of the state. 

According to Professor Adeleke, “The 2025 budget was predicated on Government policies and influenced by macro-economic variables such as inflation rate, GDP growth rate, exchange rate, oil price, as well as the citizens’ needs, leading to a significant upsurge of 56% as against the 2024 budget.”

He maintained that the present administration led by Senator Ademola Adeleke, is focusing on agriculture, creative industry, digital economy, education, health, sports, roads, and general infrastructure alongside women and youth programmes and policies.

Professor Adeleke said that the budget process was carefully and meticulously done with stakeholders, among Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, Members of Traditional Council, Market Women and Men Associations.

The Osun State Government initially presented a proposed budget of N390,028,277,740.00 which was later increased by N37,718,647,430.00) bringing the total budget to a sum of N427,746,925,170.00 to accommodate the increasing citizens’ needs.” Professor Adeleke explained further

Professor Adeleke added “The 2025 approved budget has a total size of N427,746,925,170.00. N251,670,167,990.00 is expected to come from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) consisting of Statutory allocation, Value Added Tax, Exchange Rate Gain, Ecological Fund, Electronic Money Transfer Levy and other revenue from FAAC”

Recalled that Governor Ademola Adeleke signed the 2025 budget tagged ” Budget of Sustainable Growth Development and Transformation” into law after Osun State House Assembly added N37,718,647,430 to accommodate citizen’s needs.

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Governance

By Mojisola Oladele/ Funmi Ojo

The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has ordered that a curfew be imposed on Ifon and Ilobu Communities, immediately following the breakdown of law and order between both communities.

The State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. Kolapo Alimi disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen, in Osogbo.

Mr. Alimi who explained that the curfew became imperative to forestall further crisis between the two communities said the curfew would be from 7 pm to 7 am daily. 

 “Following the outbreak of another communal clash between the people of Ifon and Ilobu, Osun State government has taken the following decisions aimed at ensuring lasting peace in the warring communities; That a 7 pm to 7 am curfew be imposed with immediate effect starting from Thursday, the 16th of Jan 2025 until further notice” the statement reads

He stressed that security personnel which comprises the Army, Police, and Civil Defence had been deployed to the warring communities to maintain Law and Order.

Mr Alimi urged stakeholders in the areas to cooperate with the state government in resolving the issues amicably for lasting peace.

Mr. Alimi states further “That an enlarged committee of stakeholders which shall consist of the representatives of the communities, the Service Chiefs, the representatives of the state council of Obas and other relevant bodies be immediately constituted to resolve the issue permanently.”

The state Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment cautioned that anyone or group of persons found or caught instigating any further violence would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

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Lifestyle

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has urged Nigerians to be committed to the values of patriotism, loyalty and sacrifice for which the Nigerian Armed Forces are known. 

Governor Adeleke made the call at the grand finale and laying of wreath at the Military Cenotaph for the 2025 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration in Osogbo.

He stressed the need for continued support for the armed forces and work towards a more peaceful and secure Nigeria.

While commending the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes in defending the nation’s sovereign integrity, peace and unity, the governor said he would continue to support the armed forces to enable them to perform their duties of protecting the territorial integrity of the nation and state.

He said Nigerians owed families of gallant fallen heroes a duty of care, support and prayers at all times to ameliorate their pain and loss.

The governor called on public and private organizations to expand their support for the military stressing that in the face of conflict and economic depression, the nation’s security should remain a priority.

Governor Adeleke assured the legionnaires and veterans of the government’s readiness to attend to their demands which had been presented before him.

At the event, prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of departed soldiers and a 21-gun salute in their honour.

The grand finale of the 2025 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration which had in attendance dignitaries from government and the security agencies featured the laying of the wreath and a special parade in honour of the departed heroes.

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News

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor says it will not tolerate attempt to deny the state and its people their rightful share in the mining sector.

Governor Adeleke stated this at the Solid Minerals Stakeholders, workshop with the theme, Enhanced Internally Generated Revenue and Sustainable Environmental, Friendly Mining in Osun State, at Aisu Ede, Osun State.

The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye said his government’s mining reforms are not about targeting any particular group but ensuring that the rights of all stakeholders, including businesses, host communities, and the state government are respected.

“Our main preoccupation is to block any exploitation and cheating of our people,” he said. We desire that our people and state should feel the impact of their God-given resources.”

While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring fair practices in the state’s mining sector, Governor Adeleke emphasized the need for clearer boundaries between state and federal responsibilities to address complications in the sector just as he commends the regulatory coordination by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals.

In a paper presentation on “Devastating Effects of Illegal Mining” a Professor of Geology, University of Ibadan, Adeniyi Gbadegesin explained that though mining of mineral resources has contributed to National GDP, however, it has led to deforestation, contaminated water and environment which affects human and animal habitat.

Professor Gbadegesin urged the federal government to make policies to regulate mining activities especially by the illegal Miners.

In his remark, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Mining and Mineral Matters, Professor Lukman Adekilekun-Jimoda explained that the workshop aims to form a synergy between state government and stakeholders in the mining in order to increase the state Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, and ensure Sustainable Environment.

Professor Adekilekun-Jimoda said the government has taken proactive steps to strengthen Osun’s position within mining sector through hard but equitable policy actions.

Housing

By Funmi Ojo

In a bid to ensure communal peace and progress, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has inaugurated Chairmen and Members of the Rent Tribunal in Osun State.

At the inauguration held at Exco Lounge, Governor’s office, State Secretariat, Abere, Osun State, the Governor approved the appointment of 39 Chairmen and Members of Tribunals for the Nine Federal constituencies in the state.

Governor Adeleke, represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Jimi Bada stated that the appointment is per the Residential Accommodation (Rent Control) Law Cap. 144 Laws of Osun, 2003, Section 5(1)(a) and (b).

He said the constitution of the Rent Tribunal is aimed at enhancing communal peace and dispensation of justice in landlord/tenant-related disputes as well as ensuring peaceful and amicable resolution of rent-related issues in all the federal constituencies in Osun State.

Governor Adeleke while congratulating the appointees implored them to discharge their responsibilities creditably and be guided by the extant provisions of the Osun State Rent Control and Recovery of Premises Law 2003.

Governor urged them to uphold the principles of professionalism and integrity fairness, accessibility and timelines whenever they are discharging their duties.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairmen and Members of the Tribunal, Mrs Oluwayemisi Akintajuwa appreciated the governor for the confidence reposed in them and promised to uphold the rule of law guiding the tribunal and discharge their responsibilities without fairness and favour.

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News

By Mojisola Oladele

A renowned roadcaster and Vice Chairperson, National Association of Women Journalist, NAWOJ, Osun State, Taiwo Kekere Ekun has passed away.

According to reports, she passed away on Monday this week, after battling with an undisclosed illness.

She was a graduate of Mass Communication from Osun State Polytechnic, Iree.

The Alumni of the Mass Communication department at Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, have taken to their various social media platforms to mourn her demise.

Late Taiwo Kekereekun was known for her eloquent presentation of newspaper reviews in Yoruba, which earned her recognition both within and outside the State.

Until her death was a Staff of Fresh Fm, Osogbo.

News

By Moji Oladele

The Olunisha of Inisha Town in Odo-Otin Local Government Area , Osun State, Oba Joseph Fashiku has assured the state government of adequate support from him and his subjects towards the continuous development in the town and the state at large.

Oba Fashiku gave the assurance when he led High Chiefs of the town on a courtesy visit to the state governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke at the Government House, Oke-Fia, Osogbo.

The monarch noted that, less than two years of the present administration, Senator Adeleke has commenced the rehabilitation of roads in the town which had been abandoned by immediate past administration and other ongoing positive developments in across the state.

Reacting on the recent defection of One of the People’s Democratic party, PDP, Party’s , Board of Trustees, BOT, Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun to The All Progressives Party, APC, Oba Fashiku on behalf of his subjects disassociated themselves from the decision of Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun.

Also Coroborating his view, One of the High Chiefs of Inisha, Aremo Kunle Alao who emphasized that, the town is solidly behind the State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke beyond 2026, pleaded for more developmental interventions into the Town.

In a remark, the Chairman, PDP , Osun State, Mr Sunday Bisi explained that the visit of the Olunisha and his chiefs to the state governor was significant and laudable.

While describing a front-line politician who hails from Inisha Town, Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun as a leader and father, the governor said the PDP would gladly receive Alhaji Oyedokun back whenever he decides to rescind his decision.

Senator Adeleke reiterated that, his administration would continue to ensure infrastructural developments in all towns in the state irrespective political affiliation.

The governor also used the occasion to assure residents of the state, that more teachers would be recruited, engaged in regular training to boost proficiency, and all dilapidated public schools would be renovated as part of measures to revamp the education sector.

Also present at the event, Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Reverend Bunmi Jenyo, high chiefs from Inisha Town amongst other distinguished personalities.

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Education

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke says he re-launched the school feeding programme, with a belief that the young ones deserve all the support for orderly transition to youth rank.

The Governor stated this at the commencement of a pilot study ‘value for money’ of which Osun was selected for its passion and high standard in the running of the school feeding programme.

The Governor explained that the O-Meal programme is ongoing even with more features, “I am proud my state stands out among the 36 states on the O-Meal programme. 

“I call on the opposition to at least see this new reality. We should put politics aside and commend this programme which benefits all pupils irrespective of political affiliations” he said.

The Governor reassures the Federal Government that his administration would continue to implement the programme under very high standard.

In a remark, the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Dr. Yetunde Adeniji said the Federal Government has commended Osun State for being the only state with an ongoing school feeding programme out of the 36 states of the federation.

Dr. Adeniji noted that the commitment of Osun State to the school feeding programme elated all stakeholders, calling it a rare show of love for the growth and development of the young ones.

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Agriculture

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has reiterated his commitment to reviving cocoa industries with a target to be the first among cocoa producing state in Nigeria.

The Governor, who stated this at a meeting with a Chinese team of investors from Wuxi Huadong Cocoa Food Co. Limited, were on a two-day working visit to the state, said his agenda extends to developing partnership with agro industrial firms, from far and near.

Governor Adeleke pointed out that his administration launched the cocoa revival initiative in January this year, covering revival of old cocoa plantations, planting of at least, a million seedlings and development of processing factories for new cocoa products.

Our government is particularly focused on reviving the state’s Cocoa Industries limited. We seek to go beyond becoming the first Cocoa producing State in Nigeria. We target producing and exporting Cocoa products. That explains why we are determined to revive our Cocoa Industry and even establish new factories“.

The Governor, while describing the presence of the Chinese team as a welcome development, said, his government was open to a Memorandum of Understanding for the revival of the industry located at Ede, Osun State.

He directed the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry as well as the Attorney General of the State to work out a partnership deal.

The Managing Director, Wuxi Huadong Cocoa Food Co. Limited, Mr. Yan Weiqing, who expressed satisfaction after site inspection of the moribund Cocoa industry at Ede, promised to rebuild the Cocoa Processing facility and bring in new equipment for the progress of Mr. Governor’s industrialization agenda.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Reverend Bunmi Jenyo had stated that the company is expected to generate direct and indirect jobs for the citizens, revenue for the state and good returns on investments for prospective investors.

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News

By Folake Oye

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has disowned a flier purportedly from the Office of one of his wives, Mrs Ngozi Adeleke, welcoming Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu to the state

Senator Adeleke who described the flier purportedly from Mrs Ngozi Adeleke as fake said there was no conflict over who among his two wives would host the First Lady, who is billed to visit Osun State today to turn the sod of the Alternative High School for Girls at Oke D.O, Ilesha Road, Osogbo.

Making clarification on the matter in a statement in Osogbo, spokesperson for the governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed said Mrs Titilola Adeleke is the First Lady and would receive Mrs Tinubu during the visit.

It notes that, Mrs Ngozi Adeleke did not authorise the flier, as the material was manufactured and shared by elements who wanted to sow discord and create an atmosphere of confusion.

The statement adds that the person behind it has been arrested.

Governance

By Funmi Ojo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state has appealed to South African authority to intervene and halt the constant harassment and molestation of Nigerians in South Africa.

The governor made the appeal while hosting the Consul-General of Republic of South Africa to Nigeria, Professor Bobby J Moroe and his Vice Consul, Ms Busisiwe Dlamini at the Government House, Osogbo.

He described the hostile attitude to Nigerians as “quite disturbing” and “a threat to the historical bond and brotherhood between the two countries.

“I urge you to convey our apprehension to your home government. It is wrong to a profile a whole nation as criminals. Every country has its own share of good and bad eggs. 

“In South Africa, there are thousands of Nigerians legitimately operating their businesses and services. They suffer a lot due to the negative profiling. We need to put an end to this increasingly molestation of our nationals in your great country”   the Governor noted.

Responding, the Consul-General noted that the concerns raised by his host is genuine but added that his government is doing a lot to ensure harmonious relationship between South Africans and foreign nationals.

According to him, the Government of South Africa values her relationship with Nigeria in view of historical brotherhood and very close economic and Diplomatic relationship between the two countries.

He cited the fact that many South Africans are married to Nigerians and vice versa, promising to also convey the concerns of the Governor to her home country.

Both the Governor and the Consul General reviewed the economic opportunities between the two countries and proposed a Memorandum of Understanding between Osun State and the South African provine of Gauteng, the most developed of South African provinces.

The two team specifically agreed that the target of the partnership will be agro-processing technologies and mining, the two areas in which both states have comparative advantages. Gauteng province in South Africa is mostly referred to as face of Gold alongside its developed agro-industrial sector.

The details of the agreement which will see a joint meeting between Governors of the two states are being worked upon.

News

By Funmi Ojo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has charged the Implementation Panel on Contract Review White Paper members to operate within due process and the rule of law.

Governor Adeleke gave the charge during the committee’s inauguration at the banquet hall of the government house, Okefia, Osogbo of the State capital.

He maintained that the panel was not to witch-hunt anyone, saying they should work as a matter of urgency to put an end to impunity.

Governor Adeleke urged the committee to employ all state machinery to ensure they put the record straight in the history of the State.

In his remark, the Chairman of the Committee, Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Chief Kolapo Alimi promised that the committee would discharge their duty diligently.

Chief Alimi assured that anyone who was indicted would be given a fair hearing.

Other members of the committee include Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Jimi Bada, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Hon Dosu Babatunde, Commissioner for Health, Mr Jola Akintola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Mr Bashiru Bello, and Senior Special Assistant on Bureau of Social Services, Mr Sheriff Bello.

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Economy

By Funmi Ojo

In pursuance of his commitment to transparency and accountability, Governor Ademola Adeleke has set up an eight-man panel for the implementation of the report and white paper on the Committee for Review of Contract awarded during the administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

Governor Adeleke had in 2022 set up the contract review committee after the assumption of office through an executive order, following humongous contract corruption inherited from the previous administration.

In a statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the new panel is charged with enforcing the recommendations of that original review committee and the subsequent white paper approved by the State Executive Council.

Members of the committee include Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Chief Kolapo Alimi, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Jimi Bada, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Dosu Babatunde, Commissioner for Health, Mr Jola Akintola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Mr Bashiru Bello, and Senior Special Assistant on Bureau of Social Services, Mr Bello Sheriff.

Terms of reference of the panel include enforcing the recommendations in the committee report and white paper, ensuring prosecution of culprits through relevant agencies and implementing all institutional recommendations to prevent reoccurrence of distortions in contract award and management.

The committee is expected to commence operations immediately by giving effect to each of the committee recommendations as approved by the State Executive Council.

Governor Adeleke vowed to implement the white paper on previous contract awards.

“We have a duty to secure state assets and resources for the enjoyment of present and future generations. We have a responsibility to enforce accountability as a precaution against leadership recklessness. I urge this committee to pursue all legal means to implement the recommendations of the contract review committee”, Governor Adeleke noted.

The inauguration of the committee comes up soon.

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Legislature

By Mojisola Oladele

Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA, has passed a resolution seeking to create four additional constituencies.

This resolution was made during a plenary presided by the Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun held at the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

The resolution was reached after the legislators spoke extensively on an issue of personal explanation raised by the member representing Irewole/Isokan, Mr Abiola Ibrahim who explained that his constituency had more than a local government, therefore there is the need for additional constituencies to bring governance closer to the people.

Contributing on the matter, the member representing, Boripe/Boluwaduro constituency, Mr Simeon Popoola noted that section 91 of the 1999 Constitution states that, “a House of Assembly of a state shall consist of three or four times the number of seats which that state has in the House of Representatives” and this indicates that, Osun State having 9 federal constituencies is entitled to between 27 and 36 constituencies.

Other lawmakers, including the majority leader, Mr Adewunmi Babajide, member representing Ifelodun, Mr Tajudeen Adeyemi, member representing, Atakumosa East/West, Mr Sanmi Areoye noted that creating additional constituencies for the state became imperative to conform with constitutional provisions and has been long overdue.

Aligning with the legislators, the Speaker, Prince Adewale Egbedun said the resolution of the House would be forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration.

Also, Osun State Primary Health Care Development Board Amendment Bill No. 1 scaled through its second reading, during the plenary.

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Economy

By Funmi Ojo

In continuation of his administration’s efforts to cushion the effects of the harsh economy, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has disbursed a sum of over Five Hundred and Eighty-Eight Million Naira to 19,720 beneficiaries of Imole Osun Cash Grant Scheme. 

An additional Sixty Thousand identified poor segment of the population are to receive ATMs of their bank accounts to facilitate their access to such grants.

Governor Adeleke said the beneficiaries are selected from the State Social Register for Poor and Vulnerable Households domiciled in the State, Operation Coordinating Unit, National Social Safety Net Project in the Ministry of Economic Planning, Budget and Development.

The Governor represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Ayanleye Aina who highlighted programmes of the present administration to attend to the needs of the poor, the weak and the under-privileged said the administration has invested heavily in the Social protection sector, developing and implementing several high-level Social Security Strategies to reduce the poverty, unemployment and low productivity space among others.

Describing himself as a pro-poor, pro-welfare leader, the Governor said his administration’s Five-Point Agenda has social investment as the core of its focus, noting that “these policies cut across health, education, agriculture, youth, women, children development and Special Needs.

The 19,720 beneficiaries were supported with a sum of 25,000 and 30, 000 while 10,390 of them with existing bank accounts have had access to withdraw and utilize their money.

“Also, I have given approval that the remaining 9,330 beneficiaries be given their debit cards. These people are poor people without account numbers and with this distribution, it becomes an achievement that is in tandem with the financial inclusion policy of the Federal Government”.

He maintained that at least 60,000 people would receive their ATM cards of bank accounts which was facilitated through the programme.

Governor Adeleke explained that the objective of the cash intervention was to provide relief for the poorest and most vulnerable population in the state against the harsh economic conditions occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy and high cost of living.  

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