Education

Osun State Polytechnics Gets New Acting Rector

By Web News 472

By Mathew Famakinde

Osun state government has given approval for the immediate appointment of Mr. Alabi Kehinde as the acting rector of the Osun State Polytechnics, Iree following the suspension of the erstwhile rector Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo.

This is contained in a letter signed by the permanent secretary, Osun State ministry of Education, Mr. M.K Jimoh dated July 11.

Mr. Jimoh in the letter said that the erstwhile rector should step aside while investigation into the allegations of corruption and abuse of office levelled against him are to be thoroughly investigated.

The appointment of Mr. Alabi Kehinde takes immediate effect.

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News

Adeleke Appoints 30 Special Advisers

By Web News 424

By Funmi Adekoya

In order to strengthen the governance in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed 30 Special Advisers, out of which 10 are of cabinet member rank.

This is sequel to securing approval for five more Special Advisers in addition to the previously approved 25 Special Advisers.

A statement by Governor’s Spokesperson Mallam Olawale Rasheed indicates that the inauguration of Advisers, Board Chairmen and Vice Chairmen will take place tomorrow by 10am at the Local Government Service Commission, Government Secretariat, Osogbo.

The statement adds that the portfolios of the Special Advisers are to be announced during the inauguration.

The newly appointed Special Advisers are as follows:

1. Azeez Badmus 

2. Hon. Mosudi Yakubu

3. Femi Carena

4. Hon. Stephen Akanfe Atidade

5. Dr. Adekunle Akindele

6. Mr. Tunde Balogun 

7. Mr. Eniola Odeniyi 

8. Alhaji Muniru Adebayo Raji

9. Mr. Goddey Olijeh

10. Mr. Seyi Babatunde

11. Hon. Kamoru Ajisafe

12. Sunday Komolafe 

13. Tope Victor Anjorin

14. Princess Oyeboade Rashidat Oyewale Afolabi 

15. Odelade Sarafat OLanrewaju

16. Hon Moji Omisore

17. Nurudeen Emiloju

18. Hon. Ropo Oyewole

19. Hon. Emiola Fakeye

20. Hon. Yemi Ayodele

21. Bankole Omisore 

22. Mrs. Halid Sekina Temilade

23. Hashim Abioye Esq

24. Ajetunmobi Akinwale 

25. Alhaja Hawa Ahmed

26. Durojaiye Isaac Kolawole

27. Princess Adebimpe Koyi

28. Alhaji Abiodun Olaniran

29. Alhaji Adam Akintunde Akindere

30. Mallam Olawale Rasheed

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Education

Poly Rector Suspended Over Alleged Corruption

By Web News 407

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Government has suspended the Rector, Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo over alleged corruption.

Dr. Odetayo was appointed as substantive Rector of the Polytechnic on March 14, 2023, by Governor Ademola Adeleke.

In a letter of suspension dated July 11, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. M. K. Jimoh, it stated that he was suspended for abuse of office and misappropriation of funds.

“You are to proceed on suspension immediately, while an investigation into the allegations leveled against you commences soon”.

In another letter dated the same day signed by the Permanent Secretary, the state government appointed Dr. Alabi Kehinde as acting rector with immediate effect.

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Transportation

Drivers Lament Hardship Due to Petrol Price Hike

By Web News 563

Adenitan Akinola 

The leadership of Commercial Minibus Drivers’ commonly known as ‘Korope’ in Osogbo, are lamenting the pains being experienced by motorists and Nigerians due to fuel subsidy removal.

The Drivers stormed the popular Olaiya flyover on Wednesday, where they expressed their grievances and shortages that have befallen them due to increase in the cost of petrol.

The commercial drivers who refused to attend to commuters in the early hours of the day in Protest to the economic situation, however resolved to create four major bus stop within Osogbo metropolis, mandating all their members to start loading passengers at the newly created Bus stops for ease of fuel consumption management.

According to them the new development was due to the hike in the new pump price of PMS.

Speaking with our correspondent, the Vice Chairman of Mini bus drivers, Osogbo unit, Mr Abodele Lateef said “we decide to create a routes/ bus-stops for all mini buses in Osogbo so that we can have little money for fuel.

“Now we divide the route into four places. 

“Those plying Ola-Iya, Ogo-Oluwa , Abeere , Owode-Ede will carry passengers from there and then turn back from garage Ilesha , Owode will pick passengers from there and then turn back with passengers, those from Ota Efun and others will also do the same Oke-fia, Dada Estate will drop their passengers and turn back so that we won’t be wasting too much fuel this will take effect from Thursday.

“This route initiation and what we are doing today is just to create awareness for people to know. 

“Our step does not affect the government of the State because we know we are in the State capital and we can’t stop korope from working so it would not affect the people who will be going to work”.

Our correspondent reports that many passengers were stranded, as a result of the development.

Speaking on the pump price hike, a commercial motorist who identified himself as Taofeek, lamented the hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy.

He noted that even when the subsidy was first removed, majority of the commercial drivers could not afford the N500 price initially implemented.

Taofeek, said majority of them receive the increment in the pump price in a shock adding that “we do not expect more hardship than what we are currently experiencing,” 

He therefore appealed to the government to provide respite that will cushion the effect of the hardship on citizenry.

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Politics

Adeleke Constitutes Board Heads

By Web News 367

By Funmi Adekoya 

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the appointment of Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of non-statutory boards in the State.

The fresh appointments came a day after the Governor performed the swearing-in ceremony for 25 commissioners and three permanent secretaries.  

According to a statement by Governor’s Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the appointments take immediate effect.

Below is the full list of 21 Chairman of boards with two of the boards having a Vice-Chairman:

List of boards and Chairmen

1. UNIOSUN – Prof Wale Oladipo

2. UNILESA – Hon Gbenga Onigbogi

3. Iree Polytechnic – Hon Diran Ayanbeku

4. Esa Oke College of Technology – Hon Diran Odeyemi

5. Ila College of Education – Elder Peter Babalola (Peter Power)

6. Ilesa College of Health Technology – Senator Felix Ogunwale

7. Local Govt Service Commission – Tunji Adeleke Jnr

8. Hospital Management Board – Dr K.K Akinroye – Chairman

Vice Chairman- Elder Dosu Adetayo

9. SUBEB – Hon Ibukun Fadipe

10. OSBC Chairman – Muyiwa Oloso

●Vice-Chairman – Prince Lanre Laoye

11. Primary Healthcare Devt Board – Hon Taju Adisa

12. Water Corporation – Olayinka Sam Oyedotun

13. Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) – Alhaji Maruf Ishola

14. Pilgrims Welfare Board (Christian Wing) – Elder Funsho Ishola

15. Osun Health Insurance Agency – Dr Muyiwa Oladimeji

16. UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital – Hon Niyi Owolade

17. TESCOM – Hon Razak Salinsile

18. Osun Council for Arts and Culture – Hon Ebenezer Ebenco

19. Housing Loans Board – hon Akanfe Atidade

20. Osun Tourism Board – Baba Kolade Adeleke

21. Osun Internal Revenue Service – Hon Sola Adewumi

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Politics

Appointments is on Merit, Adeleke Cautions MURIC on Causing Division

By Web News 488

By Funmi Adekoya

The Osun State government has charged Muslim Rights Organisation (MURIC) not to use religion to cause division in the State, affirming that Governor Ademola Adeleke’s appointments of commissioners and permanent secretaries are based on merit and competency.

In a statement, the State government noted that ever since assuming office, Governor Adeleke has premised his governance decisions on competency and commitment to State duty of appointees in his avowed commitment to deliver on good governance and correct inherited ills from previous administration.

The Governor’s first appointees in government were appointed not by religion but merit, competency and conformation with his style of leadership, stressing that same principle of meritocracy which produced the nominated commissioners was applied in the appointments of permanent secretaries who are accounting officers of the ministries.

The statement notes that no agent of destabilization masquerading as a religious body can deploy religion as a partisan tool to divide and distract governance.

The statement added that Osun State is an enlightened society with deep records of religious harmony and close understanding of the Governor as a leader who has never pander to religious bigotry, ethnic partisanship and unmerited decision making.

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Infrastructure

Osun Govt Provides Solution to Water Shortage 

By Web News 428

By Funmi Adekoya

The Osun state government says it is already rehabilitating water works in major towns of the state while the 332 boreholes are emergency intervention projects to address acute water shortage in the State.

Responding to issues raised by some stakeholders, the government through a statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, noted that rehabilitation of water works at Ede, Iwo, Osogbo, Eko-ende and others are already ongoing.

Governor Adeleke adopted two approaches which include the short-term interventions which are the boreholes and the medium, and long-term interventions which are the rehabilitation of water works. Both are ongoing simultaneously

On Commissioner-nominees, Governor Adeleke says he is pro-women and gender-sensitive, noting that it is too early to judge the administration on gender and affirmative action as less than 10 percent of statutory appointments have been made.

Reacting to the Ipade Imole, the Governor reassured the people that the public accountability platform will hold, as the preparation has reached an advanced stage.

On the Osogbo Eid praying ground issue, the Government appreciates the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, the Grand Chief Imam of Osogbo Land; the leadership of Osogbo Progressive Union and eminent sons and daughters of the capital city who visited and tendered apologies for what happened at the Osogbo Eid prayer ground.

Governor Adeleke reaffirms his resolve to continue to address developmental questions affecting the capital city and other towns and villages in the state.

The government also emphasizes its open-door policy and its receptiveness to ideas and Innovations to take the state to greater heights.

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Labour

Staff Audit: Workers Stage Workout, Adeleke Wades in

By Web News 458

By Adenitan Akinola/ Funmi Adekoya

Some civil servants in Osun State have rejected the staff Audit exercise directed by Governor Ademola Adeleke as they staged a workout from the venue of the exercise in Osogbo.

The verification exercise had commenced few days ago and had been going on daily at the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding located in Abere area of the State capital.

It continued on Thursday when workers of the Hospitals Management Board were expected to appear before an auditing consultant hired by the state government.

Few minutes after the workers had converged on the venue for the exercise, it was gathered that some of them became uncomfortable with the process and disagreed with the consultant on the mode and other logistics involved in the auditing.

Consequently, the area became rowdy as some workers started singing solidarity songs and declared that they were no longer interested in the auditing process.

The angry workers parked their academic credentials and stormed out of the venue.

Recall that the Academic and Non-Academic Staff of Osun State-owned tertiary institutions had called on the State government to decentralize the planned staff audit of the State workforce.

The unions, however, threatened to embark on industrial action if the consulting firm fails to reason and put the concerns they had raised into consideration.\

In the meantime, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has ordered immediate review of the ongoing staff audit across the state public service just as he restated the commitment of his administration to the enhancement and protection of workers’ interest.

Addressing a joint meeting of labour leaders and the auditing firm, Governor Adeleke directed the joint committee working on the exercise to address all sticky areas and come up with acceptable modalities for hitch free exercise.

The Governor expressed displeasure at the inconvenience the exercise has caused public servants and instructed the Head of Service to ensure adjustment of the procedures to ensure the well being and comfort of the workforce.

He called for the adjustment of the procedures to have a mutually acceptable exercise, noting that the purpose of the audit exercise is to block leakages and expand staff welfare.

The Governor directed the joint committee to meet to decide on the new acceptable timetable that will take into account the diversity and peculiarities of each government agency or ministry, as well as brainstorm on decentralisation of the exercise on zonal basis to reduce the burden and logistics of movements to the capital city.

Governor Adeleke urged all stakeholders to join hands to ensure a hitch free completion of the staff auditing, adding that his government partnership and brotherhood with the labour movement preclude any anti-labour move from his table.

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Infrastructure

Adeleke Distributes over 300 Generating Sets to Power Boreholes

By Web News 613

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has distributed 332 Power generating sets to power the 332 recently completed boreholes across the 332 political wards in the state.

The powering of the borehole with generating sets marks the last stage of the mass water supply programme after the completion of 332 boreholes within the Governor’s 100 days in office.

The Governor who had also launched a statewide rehabilitation of water works across the major towns cited the borehole as an emergency intervention to address the problem of water shortage in the State.

Speaking during the official distribution of the power generating sets held at the government secretariat, Director of Water, Sanitation and Environment, Mr Olaoye Abayomi described the gesture as unprecedented in the history of the State.

Mr Abayomi noted that by World Organisation Standard, a borehole is to serve three thousand five hundred (3500) people which mean the Governor has provided water for about two million people in the State.

He maintained that powering the borehole with generating set is cost effective and sustainable, while local management of the borehole will ensure its durability and efficiency.

Commending the Governor for being passionate and concerned for water availability in all nooks and crannies of the State, the Director affirmed that the borehole project cannot fail based on the professionalism in the design and execution.

He however called on the local management committee to be alive to their responsibility, adding that each community must take ownership of the borehole project.

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News

Adeleke Orders Immediate Payment for Pensioners

By Web News 383

By Funmi Adekoya

The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has issued a directive for the immediate payment of pension entitlement as planned in the template released earlier this year.

This was aimed at the government’s plan to enroll contributory pensioners in the state health insurance scheme.

The Governor, according to a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, stated this while receiving pensioners’ leaders who paid him a sallah visit at his country home in Ede, Osun state.

He noted that, the template released earlier this year on clearing of outstanding salaries and pensions is still in force and subsequently directed the Head of Service to fast track the implementation by ensuring the payment of the pension arrears in line with the approved template.

The Governor maintained that, his administration is prioritizing workers’ welfare which covers in-service and out of service workers, assuring the pensioners that, they are not and cannot be forgotten.

He added that, said his administration’s pro-pensioners plan, is almost finalizing a plan to enroll the pensioners under the state health insurance scheme to address their health needs.

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Infrastructure

Monarch Makes Case for Road Rehabilitation

By Web News 410

By Adenitan Akinola 

The Oloba of Oba Oke town in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Adam Iyiola Yusuf has appealed to the State government to reconstruct the only road connecting the community with Osogbo, the State Capital.

Oba Iyiola made the appeal while speaking at a forum in the State capital.

The monarch argued that the dilapidated state of the road had made it difficult for the people from moving in and out of the town with ease, thereby making life unbearable them.

He said this had negatively affected their businesses as farmers could not conveniently move their farm produce to the State capital and beyond, while traders also had challenges coming to buy things from the town.

Oba Iyiola added that the deplorable road was limiting the commercial capacity of the Oba Dam as tourists who would have loved to visit the place avoided it to safe their vehicle from damages. 

The monarch urged the government to consider the road in the ongoing road rehabilitation and reconstruction project of the administration.

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Health

Over 3 Million Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net for Distribution in Osun

By Web News 1003

By Adenitan Akinola

A total of three million six hundred thousand Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net, ITN is to be distributed to various households in Osun State.

The National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr Perpetua Uhomoibhi gave the information at a media orientation on Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The National Coordinator of the National Malaria Elimination Programme who was represented by an official of the agency, Mrs Chinbututu Margaret announced that the distribution would take place between the 6th and 17th of July this year.

Dr Uhomoibhi explained that the NMEP had designed an effective mechanism that incorporated the locals, traditional and religious institutions in Osun State in the distribution chain to ensure that it reached the remotest part of the state.

She said, although there was evidence of a reduction in malaria burden in Nigeria to 22 percent against 49 percent in 2010, but the federal government and its collaborating partners were determined to ensure that the burden was reduced more significantly.

The Coordinator noted that “from the last survey we did in 2001, Osun State recorded the lowest utilisation rate of the mosquito net. So it is imperative for all of us, particularly the Media to heighten its efforts in ensuring that the people are aware that the net is to be used and not kept in their homes”.

Also speaking at the Programme, the representatives of one of the collaborating partners, The Society for Family Health, SFH Nigeria, Mr Gbue Daniel pointed out that Nigeria alone accounted for one out of four malaria burden in Africa.

Mr Gbue said the burden was much among women and children as 30% of Child and 11 percent of maternal deaths in Nigeria were caused by malaria.

“I’m addition to the direct health challenge, Malaria scourge also exerts huge socio-economic burden on our communities and country. Billions of Naira are lost to malaria annually inform of treatment cost, prevention and loss of man-hours“. He said.

Mr Gbue appealed to the Media that to consider the fight against malaria as a key component of their health campaigns.

He also called on the private sector to incorporate malaria prevention in their social responsibility agenda by supporting government at all levels in the campaigns. 

Speaking on behalf of Osun State government, the Manager of Osun Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr Olufemi Oroge urged the media to support the government in the campaign to eliminate malaria by using their various platforms to enlighten the people.

Dr Oroge promised the state government commitment to ensuring the utilisation of the treated mosquito net.

The federal government’s National Malaria Elimination Programme is supported by the Society for Family Health and the Catholic Relief Services.

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Health

I will prioritize health care delivery – Adeleke

By Web News 1308

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke says his administration will continue to prioritize the health of the people of Osun State.

This is just as he has given approval to the request of getting more medical equipment for the UniOsun Teaching Hospital which will soon be delivered to the hospital.

Governor Adeleke stated this when he received the management of the University of Osun Teaching Hospital, who were on a thank you visit in his office at Abere.

He said he was really encouraged to do more for the health sector considering the outcome of the last Imole medical outreach where about 25,000 people benefited.

The Governor added that his office is open to ideas that can develop the State as he is ready to run an open government to give the people who voted for him the opportunity to contribute to governance.

Earlier, Chief Medical Director, Uniosun Teaching Hospital, Professor Peter Olaitan appreciated the Governor for approving the hazard allowance and other allowances for the medical workers as well as approval for the employment of more staff. 

Professor Olaitan appealed to the Governor to approve capital funds for the hospital so as to enable them to procure other necessary equipment for the hospital.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Osun branch, Dr. Adetoye Adedapo who congratulates the Governor for his victory at the Supreme Court solicited the support of the Governor for the association to host national NMA games in November this year.

The highlight of the visit is the presentation of a letter of appreciation and gifts to the Governor by the President, Joint Health Sector Unions, JOHESU, Mrs Rasheedat Akinwumi.

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Religion

CAN Calls for Reintroduction of CRS in Schools’ Curriculum

By Web News 711

By Funmi Adekoya

The Christian body in Osun under the umbrella of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Osun State chapter has called for the reintroduction of Christian Religious Studies, CRS, in the schools’ curriculum in the State noting that it would help in teaching the students the way of God.

The body equally enjoined the government to employ more youths in the civil service to save them from committing avoidable crimes.

The Chairman, Osun State CAN, Reverend John Adeleke stated this when he led members of the association on a courtesy visit to the Governor in his office, State Secretariat, Abere.

Reverend Adeleke, described the State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke as God sent with his numerous achievements within his few months in office, stressed that the Governor’s achievements in all sectors is unprecedented like prompt payment of workers’ salaries, and social infrastructure, among others. 

He urged the government to involve the body on any matter that concerns Christians, including sponsorship of holy pilgrimage, as well as appeal to the governor to resuscitate the subvention given to the Association to enable them to carry out some obligations among others.

He pledged their support to the present administration through prayers for a successful tenure.

Responding, Governor Ademola Adeleke appreciated the body for their support through prayers, noting that their fervent prayers had sustained him to remain in office as the Governor.

The Governor who attributed his all-around victory to his unrelenting praises to God said, he is determined to serve the State and bring it to the limelight among other States of the federation.

Governor Adeleke, therefore, pledged to complete the electrification of the State within the next two years and promised to support the CAN and assent to their request as time goes by.

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Labour

Adeleke Charges Perm Secs on Diligence

By Web News 543

By Funmi  Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has advised the new Permanent Secretaries in the state to be good ambassadors and good example to their subordinates in the discharge of their duties.

Governor Adeleke who gave the advice at the inauguration of new Permanent Secretaries described them as representatives of the Governor and the people in their various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs.

The Governor said he has directed the Head of Service to ensure effective monitoring of the Permanent Secretaries’ activities and compliance with the implementation of the Action Plan of the government. 

He urged them to team up with him to come up with revised mandates of the various MDAs thereby preparing the grounds for the incoming cabinet. “Loyalty must also be your watchword. We will not hesitate to show any of you the way out if and when found wanting” he said.

Governor Adeleke said he has approved the position of Director-General of the State Broadcasting Corporation to have equal rights and privileges of a Permanent Secretary in the State Civil Service.

While assuring those who could not make the list that the process is a continuous one, the Governor also assured the people of Osun state that his administration is poised to deliver dividends of democracy across the sectors.

Responding on behalf of other newly sworn-in Permanent Secretaries, Mrs. Yetunde Esan appreciated the Governor for the honor done on them, noting that it is what they have been waiting for since twelve years ago

She therefore pledged that the Permanent Secretaries will serve the State to the best of their ability.

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Politics

Adeleke Reiterates Commitment to Improved Service Delivery

By Web News 451

By Funmi Adekoya

The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has reiterated his administration’s commitment to improved service delivery in public healthcare centres in the state, outlining efforts to revamp infrastructures in hospitals to meet the health needs of the people.

Governor Adeleke stated this at the commissioning of 80-bed SDG hospital in Ipetumodu, describing the intervention as a great contribution to the provision of healthcare development and services for the people of Osun State. 

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for citing the hospital in the state, noting that the project was a further testimony of the love of the President for the people of Osun state.

He also lauded the Spokesman to President Buhari, Mr. Femi Adesina, for doing the state proud with the commendable service rendered to the nation in the last eight years, pointing out that he was the facilitator of the SDG hospital that will enhance the well-being of the people of the state.

Governor Adeleke said his administration has committed a lot of investment in the health sector, which include a recently concluded medical surgery initiatives that benefited twenty-two thousands people in the nine federal constituencies.

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News

Teargas Disrupt Academic Activities in Osogbo

By Web News 617

By Adenitan Akinola 

There was pandemonium in Osogbo, the Osun State Capital in the early hours of Tuesday as about thirty-five students of Fakunle Comprehensive High School around the Stadium area collapsed as a result of teargas fired by policemen during their morning drill.

The incident led to the students being hospitalized. 

Radio Nigeria gathered that men of the 39 Squadron Division of the Nigeria Police Mobile Force located opposite the school along Osogbo-Ikirun road fired numbers of teargas canisters during their morning drill which accidentally breezed into the school premises aided by wind.

A source in the school disclosed, “When the tear-gas attack occurred many of our students were fainting and we were taking them to the hospital but at a point, many of the students ran to safety, we were forced to close the school for the day”. 

The Permanent Secretary of the Osun State Ministry of Education, Mrs Adelani Aderinola, through the Information Officer, Mrs Roseline Olawuni said the mobile policemen were holding memorial exercise in honour of their fallen colleagues in Benue state when they fired the tear gas that affected the students. 

“They were shooting tear gas which affected the students in the school. However, the matter has been escalated to the Police Commissioner and has stopped the exercise. The students have been taken to the hospital and most of them have been stabilized.” 

The spokesperson of Osun State Police Command, Mrs Yemisi Opalola confirmed that the police did not fire the tear gas inside the school but they were just using it for their drill.

Speaking with newsmen, Head of Corporation Osun Ambulance, Mrs Arowosafe Olayemi explained that eleven patients were moved to Uniosun Teaching Hospital and the others were taken to Spring Hospital very close to the school at Aderin.

“Before we got there the school authority already took the students to the private hospital, you know we cannot just disagree with them because the lives of the students are so important to us“. He said 

“We were there early enough, within 5 minutes we were there because we have an ambulance close to that place, we have an ambulance at the stadium and you know that place is closer, immediately they call me I told them to move down to the school and immediately I ask them to release the students to go home because the more they inhale that thing the more the people would faint, so I told the principal to release the students to go home so that we can reduce the number.”

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Politics

Tribunal Dismisses Petitions against State, NAS Elections

By Web News 415

By Adenitan Akinola 

The Osun State National Assembly and State House Assembly Electoral Petition Tribunal have dismissed five of the petitions filed against the February 25th Senate and House of Representatives Elections in Osun State.

The five cases include that of the Action Alliance again Senator-elect Duro Fabiyi of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Osun Central and AA against House of Representatives member-elect, Mr Bamidele Salam of the PDP in Ede North, South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency among others.

The dismissal was consequent upon the failure of the petitioners to attend the pre-hearing session of the cases as mandated by the Law.

Moving an oral application, counsel to the PDP, Mr Oyewole Jimi-Bada submitted that based on the provisions of Schedule one paragraph 18 sub-paragraph 1 (A), failure of the petitioners to be available for the pre-hearing trial would automatically amount to the dismissal of the petition.

Counsel to the first respondent, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Mr Bukola Durojaye argued that neither the Petitioners, their representatives nor their counsels were in Court, which indicated that they had abandoned the case. 

Similarly, one of the counsels to the PDP, Mr Kolapo Alimi applied for an order of the Tribunal to compel the Petitioners to pay a cost of one million naira to the respondents.

In a short serial ruling on all the cases, Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice V. O Eboreime declared that based on the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022 as amended the petitions stood dismissed.

Justice Eboreime however refused the application for the award of cost and directed parties to bear their cost.

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Health

Osun Begins Distribution of Drugs to PHCs

By Web News 582

By Funmi Adekoya

In his quest to fulfil his campaign promise to improve healthy living among Osun people, Osun State Governor, through the State Primary Healthcare Development Board, has commenced the distribution of drugs and medical consumables to the 445 non-focal health centres across the State.

The drugs and medical consumables which are scheduled for distribution to the three Senatorial Districts in the State, are to be accessed, free of charge, from primary healthcare centres across the state.

Speaking on the distribution, the Executive Secretary, State Primary Healthcare Development Board, Dr Samson Fabiyi disclosed that necessary drugs had been provided in primary healthcare centres across the State and that the State Government would not relent in giving necessary support and aid to all government health centres in the state.

Dr Fabiyi noted that grassroots is where health care delivery should be addressed first, hence, the distribution of drugs to PHCs to save a lot of lives in situations of emergency in rural areas.

He explained that the programme was to address the challenge occasioned by the perennial ‘out of stock syndrome’ in the State.

He also said that the procurement of the drugs was in line with the vision of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s rescue mission, aimed at improving health care delivery in the State.

Dr Fabiyi who appreciated Governor Adeleke for the gesture, also assured the government and people of Osun State that the drugs would serve the purpose for which they were procured, adding that the Agency had developed mechanisms to prevent diversion of the drugs.

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Lifestyle

Osun State Governor Mourns Murphy Afolabi

By Web News 2150

By Funmi Adekoya

The governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has expressed shock at the news of the demise of a great and illustrious son of the state, a popular Nollywood actor, Mr Maroof Afolabi popularly known as “Murphy Afolabi” whose death was announced in the early hours of Sunday. 

The governor through his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed described Late Murphy Afolabi as a good ambassador of Osun State who dedicated his life through his acting prowess to upholding the ethos of Omoluabi.

Governor Adeleke described, Mr. Afolabi as a passionate and ingenious Nollywood actor who stood firm in promoting the culture and tradition of the Yorubas through his God-given talent.

The statement condoled numerous fans across the world, colleagues, friends, and families on the demise of Afolabi who lived a fulfilled life of showcasing his talent to the outside world.

It prayed to God to grant his family and friends the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

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Security

Nigerian Peace Corps is an avenue for job creation – Gov. Adeleke

By Web News 1015

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to give assent to the Nigerian Peace Corps, NPC, establishment Act that is yet to be signed into law.

Governor Adeleke made the call at the passing-out parade of some officers of the Corps in Osogbo.

Represented by his aide, Mr. Ajisafe Toyese, the governor said when the bill is assented to by the president, it would go along way in providing jobs to the large number of unemployed youths and also ensuring peace and unity in the country.

According to him, the Nigerian Peace Corps would help to complement the tireless efforts of other security sister agencies towards maintaining peace across the country.

Governor Adeleke while calling on the Nigerian Peace Corps to unite in forming a common front towards achieving its mandate upon which it is being established, advised the new officers cadets to show discipline and focus when discharging their various duties anywhere they might be posted to.

He commended the Commandant-General of the NPC, Dr. Mustapha Abubakar and his officers for ensuring that the passing-out parade was successful.

Earlier, the Oni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ojaja 11, and the grand patron of the Corps, commended the Corps Commamdant for choosing Osun as its Southwest Zonal Command Training School.

The Ooni, represented by Obalufe of Ife, Oba Adediwura Olaniyi urged the new officers cadets to be more committed, dedicated, hardworking, disciplined, show love and focus when carrying out their operational duties.

In his remarks, the Commandant General (CG) of the Nigerian Peace Corps , Dr. Mustapha Abubakar, thanked President Buhari for accepting to give assent to the Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Act.

Dr Abubakar said the undiluted loyalty and commitment to the Nigerian Peace Corps was to ensure that youths realised the cultural values and morals, including inclusiveness and peaceful coexistence of all Nigerians.

He charged the new cadets to make time for personal development which would go along way in adding value to their service in the NPC.

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Labour

I will make workers’ welfare my priority – Adeleke

By Web News 442

By Funmi Adekoya

The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has reassured the Osun State workers that his administration is focusing on worker’s welfare because it is the duty of the government.

Governor Adeleke, who gave the assurance at this Workers Day celebration at Osogbo Township Stadium, said as a Comrade Governor, he is committed to workers’ welfare and ensuring workers’ friendly government.

He noted that workers in Osun State had passed through tough moments l of neglect and anti-labour which led to several dead and life plans disrupted.

On the issue of the appointment of Permanent Secretaries, which is one of the requests of workers, the Governor said the Head Office had been directed to look into it.

Governor Adeleke called for the collaboration of workers towards the development of the state adding that his administration is open to ideas on how to fast-track the development of the state.

In his address, the Chairman, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Osun State Branch, Comrade Adekola Adebowale, said there is an urgent need to declare a state of emergency in the pension department of the service noting that Workers now see retirement as a death sentence because there’s no hope of getting retirement benefits years after disengagement from active service. 

He added that the Governor should look into the issue of contract staffing as the practice is inimical to the spirit and ethics of the service and against the International Labour Organisation laws and the world’s acceptable working standards.

Also speaking, the Caretaker Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Osun State, Comrade Modupeola Oyedele called on Employers of labour to respect labour laws and end all discrimination against workers.

Highlights of the event were matched past by the workers from different union groups.

Present at the event were top government functionaries in the state, including the Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Mr. Timothy Owoeye, elected members of the state Assembly, Royal fathers as well as Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and dignitaries.

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Politics

We will be holding quarterly “Ipade Imole”– Gov. Adeleke

By Web News 452

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke says he will be holding a series of Town Hall meetings tagged “Ipade Imole” to serve as an accountability forum for government activities.

The governor in a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed declared that the forum will be held on a quarterly basis with a focus on detailed reports of government finance, revenue inflows, expenditure and ongoing and completed projects.

The “Ipade Imole” will involve relevant government agencies delivering reports of activities of each ministry to give details of ongoing projects, how much it costs, stages of completion and other contractual details to the public through the forum.

Governor Adeleke said aside from being a forum for accountability on the side of the government, it would also provide an avenue for policy ideas from civil society, media and the public into the government policy processes.

The quarterly forum will involve participants from various sectors of society while, interested members of the public, media and civil society will also have the opportunity to visit project sites and assess stages and quality of work done.

He assured the people of Osun State that each forum will equip them with publications on government activities and also avail them the space to question and interface with relevant agencies and officials.

Governor Adeleke who said his 100 days of activities by the end of March marked the first mini “Ipade Imole” added that the first expanded forum will hold by June ending at a senatorial district to be announced.

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Politics

Adeleke Knows Fate on Mandate

By Web News 640

By Adenitan Akinola

The Court of Appeal in Abuja, will today, by 12 pm, deliver judgment on the appeal filed by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to challenge the nullification of his election by the state Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.

The appellate court had, on March 23, 2023, reserved judgement in the appeal after parties in the matter adopted their written addresses and announced that, the date for the judgement will be communicated to parties.

Adeleke, and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, are praying to the appellate court to set aside the verdict of the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which sacked him from office.

Justice Tertsea Kume who led a three-member panel of the tribunal, had on the 27th of January, in a split decision of two-to-one, voided the declaration of Adeleke as the winner of the governorship election that was held on July 16, 2022.

The Tribunal held that Adeleke did not score the majority of lawful votes, adding that, the conduct of the election was not in substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

According to the tribunal, the petitioners, Gboyega Oyetola and the All Progressives Congress, APC, successfully established that there was overvoting in 744 polling units in the state.

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News

Osun Update: Residents Await Results with Eagerness

By Web News 1218

By Funmi Adekoya

As residents of Osun State await the result of the State Assembly Election, candidates in the election have been urged to accept the outcome.


Speaking with Radio Nigeria while expressing his view on the Election, member House of Representatives- Elect, Mr Bamidele Salam made the call.


Mr Bamidele Salam who observed that, the election was peaceful, commended INEC officials for comporting themselves as well as security agencies for doing their job well.


He, however, lamented low voter turnout, which he noted was as a result of the state not having governorship election unlike other states.


In a separate interview, former Speaker Osun State House of Assembly, Mr Najeem Salam who commended the Electoral body for peaceful conduct of the election urged the candidates not to see politics as a do or die affair.

However, at Ward 10 and Ward 6 in Olaoluwa local government many voters complained of being disenfranchised due to faulty BVAS.


One of the INEC Adhoc staff, who confirmed the situation said they were still waiting for another BVAS as at the time voting ended.


Places visited by Radio Nigeria crew included Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, Ejigbo, Iwo and Ola-Oluwa local government areas, while in Osun West Senatorial District recorded a peaceful electoral process.