Security

No room for inter-state crime incursion – Osun CP

By Web News 507

By Mojisola Oladele 

The Osun State Police Command has assured residents of its readiness to maintain law and order. 

The State Police Commissioner, CP Muhammed Abba, gave the assurance in reaction to rumours of hoodlums infiltrating the state and the Southwest region from the North.

CP Abba noted that his men had been stationed at strategic locations across the state, monitoring entry and exit points to prevent any form of inter-state crime incursion.

CP Abba “There is no room for inter-state crime incursion. My men have been placed at strategic locations, and they are keeping their eagle eyes on the movement of people at both entry and exit points. Osun is safe for all, and there is no cause for alarm.”

He emphasised that the command has implemented necessary measures to ensure the safety of lives and property.

The State Police Commissioner urged residents to continue with their lawful activities without fear of harassment or hindrance.

He added that the command is working in synergy with other security agencies to combat crime and criminality.

He added: “We have put adequate measures in place to guarantee the safety of lives and property of every citizen. We are advising the general public to go about their lawful duties unmolested and report any suspected strange movements to the police for immediate action.”

Recalled that the South-West security outfit, Amotekun, raised an alarm recently, over the infiltration of bandits into the region.

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Human Angle

Footballer Slumps, Dies during Match in Osun

By Web News 480

By Mojisola Oladele 

A 29-year-old footballer, Adewale Adeyemi, playing for the Ilesa West Local Government Area football team, tragically passed away after collapsing during a football competition in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent findings revealed that the incident occurred Yesterday ( Thursday) during the Adeleke Memorial Cup Final at Ataoja School of Science, where Adewale suddenly slumped on the pitch.

Confirming the incident, the Osun State Police Command Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Yemisi Opalola in a statement made available to newsmen, disclosed that Adewale collapsed on the pitch during the match and was immediately rushed to the Osun State University Teaching Hospital for medical attention.

The Statement reads “Today, 16/01/2025, while the Adeleke Memorial Cup Final match was going on at Ataoja School of Science, one Adeyemi Adewale, ‘M’, 29 years, a player from Ilesa West Football Team, slumped on the pitch.

“He was rushed to the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, where he was later confirmed dead by the doctor.” The Statement adds.

One of his relatives, who preferred to be anonymous said, the ugly incident coincided with the birthday of the late footballer.

Meanwhile, The remains of the deceased had been deposited at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital morgue in Osogbo.

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Agriculture

Adeleke Lauds FG for Agric Sector Reforms

By Web News 385

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has commended the Federal Government for the reforms currently being embarked on in the agricultural sector with a Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee set up recently, describing it as one well-intended initiative.

Governor Adeleke gave the commendation while receiving the Presidential Livestock Reforms Initiative Committee led by Professor Attahiru Jega in his office at Abere Osun State.

Governor Adeleke expressed the readiness of his administration to support any initiative by the Federal Government that would put more food on the tables of the people of Nigeria.

“To this end, I want to earnestly declare my interest in this FG’s initiative to boost food production and very soon, I will put in place a strong committee of egg heads in the field of Agriculture, to design a good template for Osun on the best way to reform the livestock sector.”

Earlier, the Co-Chairman of the Presidential Livestock Initiative Reforms Committee and former Chairman, of INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega, said his team was in Osun State to sell the idea of the Committee and its overall objectives, which, if bought into reality, would benefit Osun State.

Professor Jega particularly appealed to Governor Adeleke to set up a Ministry of Livestock in Osun State or an Agency that would see to the realisation of the dream of the Federal Government to make livestock available in large quantities throughout Nigeria. 

While calling for enabling legislation through the State House of Assembly to back the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock, Professor Jega urged Governor Adeleke to engage the services of critical stakeholders in livestock in addition to creating good awareness on the immense importance of reforming the sector for the good of all Nigerians.

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Human Angle

Police Investigate Alleged Exhumation of Corpse by Deceased’s Son

By Web News 365

By Adenitan Akinola

In Osogbo, the Police have begun an investigation into the alleged exhumation of the remains of a community leader, Pa Azeez Rauf from the grave in his house and the sale of the house by one of his sons, identified as Mutiu Rauf Okunola.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Osun State Police Command, Mrs Yemisi Opalola, told newsmen that a suspect identified as Rauf was arrested in connection with the alleged exhuming of the corpse and the sale of the house around Dada Estate, Osogbo.

Mrs Opalola, who explained that the matter was being handled by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), added that the suspect had been granted bail while an investigation into the matter was ongoing.

Findings by Radio Nigeria indicated that the sold property, located around the Dada Estate area of Osogbo, Osun State capital had generated issues amongst the children of the deceased. 

The other children of Late Azeez Rauf accused their sibling, Rauf Mutiu Okunola, also known as Tato of selling their late parents’ property and exhuming their corpses without the consent of the remaining children.

The dispute was said to have begun when Mrs Adedoyin Rukayat, one of the surviving children, discovered that the family property had been sold.

Apart from selling the house, Mrs Rukayat, who spoke to journalists, also alleged that her brother exhumed the remains of their parents without consulting other children.

Disturbed by these actions, Rukayat reported the case to Dada Estate Police Station in Osogbo, which led to the arrest of Mutiu on December 31, 2024

Radio Nigeria further gathered that policemen, who stormed the premises to arrest the suspect stopped further exhumation of their mother’s remains after the corpse of Late Azeez Rauf had already been dug out from the grave.

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Security

Armed Forces Remembrance Day, symbol of national gratitude – Adeleke

By Web News 437

By Mojisola Oladele 

Osun State Government says it remains committed to providing support for veterans and the Armed Forces.

Governor Ademola Adeleke gave the assurance during the launch of the appeal fund and emblem decoration in commemoration of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

The Governor represented by the Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi noted that the event symbolizes the depth of national gratitude to the service personnel who engage in the most fatal of all national services, in the defence of the territorial integrity of the Nation and maintenance of internal cohesion.

While assuring regular interface with Veterans, Governor Adeleke lauded the courage, gallantry and self-immolation of military personnel. 

He recalled the many members of the armed forces who were wounded and incapacitated in the course of national duty. 

Earlier in his address, the Legion chairman in Osun State, Mr. Peter Oladipo expressed gratitude to Governor Ademola Adeleke for various policies targeted towards improving the lives of veterans and falling heroes.

Mr. Oladipo, who reminded the state government of some of the challenges facing the Legion, appealed to Nigerians to donate generously to make life meaningful for the families of the fallen heroes.

The programme climaxed with the decoration of some personalities with the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.

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Labour

Osun NULGE Lauds Adeleke for Prioritizing Workers Welfare  

By Web News 502

By Funmi Ojo

The Osun State President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Dr. Nathaniel Ogungbangbe has urged staff of local government to remain dedicated to their duties and support the present government.

Dr. Ogungbangbe, in a message to the workers of local governments, noted that the state government has been playing its role in prioritising the welfare of workers in Osun.

The NULGE President pointed out that the Governor approved a training workshop for six hundred (600) staff of local government staff in Badagry last year which was unprecedented in the history of government in Osun State.

“The Governor in his magnanimity has been sponsoring local government employees on workshops which has improved in the capacity of workers.

“I can say that my success as President of NULGE in Osun State is based on what the Governor approved especially in the area of training and welfare of workers.”

He commended the efforts of the state government under the leadership of Governor Adeleke for his commitment to the welfare of workers in the state.

Dr. Ogungbangbe while assuring the support of local government workers for Governor Adeleke’s administration, called on the state government to prioritize policies that strengthen local government structures in 2025, to achieve sustainable development.

He emphasised the pivotal role of local governments in delivering grassroots governance and development. 

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Religion

Christmas: season to reflect, reaffirm our shared values – Osun Speaker

By Web News 338

By Mojisola Oladele

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun wants Nigerians to embrace the spirit of togetherness that Christmas embodies.

Prince Egbedun made the call in a Christmas message that was made available to newsmen in Osogbo.

He emphasized that Christmas is not just a time for celebration but also a time to reflect and reaffirm our shared values as a community.

The Speaker noted that the Christmas season is a reminder of the importance of peaceful coexistence which is important for the National Growth.

Prince Egbedun “I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to every one of you for the unwavering belief you have placed in the current House of Assembly under my leadership.”

“Your trust has been our guiding light, motivating us to work tirelessly towards the betterment of our state. Together, we have navigated challenges and celebrated achievements, all while keeping the welfare of our constituents at the forefront of our agenda. The Speaker speaks further 

He expressed the commitment of the Osun State House of Assembly to continue to enact laws that would truly reflect the needs and aspirations of Residents of the State.

Osun Speaker, “We are dedicated to addressing the pressing issues that affect our lives, be it in education, health care, infrastructure, or social welfare. Your voices matter, and together, we will ensure that they are heard and considered in our legislative processes.”

“As we look ahead to the New Year, let us carry the spirit of Christmas with us, one of hope, love, and resilience. Together, we can continue to build a prosperous Osun State where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.” Prince Egbedun added 

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Religion

Walk in Jesus’ Footstep, Adeleke Tells Christians

By Web News 369

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has felicitated with Christians in in the state and beyond on the occasion of this year’s Christmas celebration, urging them to emulate Jesus Christ’s example of compassion and tolerance.

Governor Adeleke, who described the birth of Jesus Christ as a defining moment for mankind, said the festive season is a solemn reminder of the power of love and how it can save humanity.

While recognizing unity and togetherness as an important message that Jesus Christ’s life resonates, Governor Adeleke charged Osun people, particularly Christians, to draw from the spiritual import of the celebration by sharing love and fostering harmony in communities.

“I extend my warm wishes to the Christian faithful in Osun State and beyond as we mark this year’s Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ manifests the power of love and reminds us of the essence of compassion,”. 

He urges the people to reflect on the message of renewal that the birth of Jesus Christ signifies, promoting activities that will unite not divide, build not destroy, and bring peace, not conflict.

Governor Adeleke sincerely appealed to the people to extend hands of kindness to the needy and the weak in society, spreading love and generosity beyond borders.

“That is the essence of Christmas and it is most essential that at a time like this, no one is left to their fate.”

While wishing for hitch-free celebration and prosperous 2025, Governor Adeleke assured Osun people that his government will continue to pursue development projects, noting that more investments in the wellbeing of Osun people will be made so as to drive the expected progress next year.

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Economy

Osun Markets Survey Reveals Spike in Prices of Commodities

By Web News 802

By Mojisola Oladele

As residents of Osun State engaged in last-minute Christmas shopping, they have called on the government to help reduce the prices of food items and commodities.

At Atakumosa Market in Ilesa, Igbonna, Ota Efun, Oluode and Owode markets in Osogbo, there was an influx of people in and out of the markets.

A bag of foreign rice, which formally sold for #88, 000, now sells for #81,000; 25 litres of vegetable oil sells for #91,000; 25 litres of palm oil which formally sold for #48,000 now sells for #54,000.

A bag of yam flour sells for four hundred thousand, and five tubers of medium-sized yam now sell for #6500 against the former price of #4500

However, prices of items including, curry,maggi, thyme, salt, tomatoes, and bell pepper, amongst others remained constant.

An onion trader in Atakumosa Market Ilesa, Mallam Idris Muhammad, who explained that he could not remember the price of a bag of onion last year, said the current price is two hundred and eighty thousand naira.

A livestock trader in Igbonna Market, Mrs Oluwakemi Aworinde explained that the price of a foreign turkey ranges from one hundred thousand to one hundred and twenty thousand naira.

She stressed that broilers and culled-off layers according to sizes, sell between fifteen and twenty- five thousand naira.

Mrs. Aworinde, while appealing to the government to formulate policies aimed at reducing the cost of food items, called on Nigerians to embrace hard work as the new year sets in with a view to surmounting the economic situation experienced across the Nation.

Also speaking, a civil servant, Miss Korede Alao said that prices of Kiddies clothes and shoes were affordable.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has declared Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th as Public Holiday to celebrate Christmas.

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Lifestyle

Giving back to society, paramount purpose of governance – Osun Speaker

By Web News 346

By Mojisola Oladele

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun says giving back to society should be the paramount purpose of Governance.

Prince Egbedun stated this during an Empowerment Programme for Youths in Odo- Otin Local Government, held in Asi town.

Prince Egbedun explained that given the economic situation in the country, it was imperative for political officeholders to effectively serve those who voted them into power.

While appreciating God for his position as the Speaker of the 8th Assembly, Prince Egbedun assured members of his constituents that the Empowerment Programmes would be a continuous one.

In separate remarks, the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Akinyode Oyewusi, Majority Leader, Mr. Babajide Kofoworola, and member representing Obokun State Constituency, Prince Adewumi Adeyemi urged members of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP not to relent in giving the party and the Speaker unflinching support.

The lawmakers, who lauded the State Governor for giving them a level playing ground, noted that contrary to the opposition Party, PDP is a party that considered the plight of the masses.

They noted that the Motorcycles, cash gifts and food items would go a long way in alleviating the sufferings of the People in Odo Otin Local Government.

While emphasizing that the recent empowerment programme was the best in the series the Speaker had engaged in, the PDP Chairman, Odo Otin Local Government, Mr. Taiwo Olatunji appreciated Prince Egbedun and prayed to God to continue to guide him through his future activities.

Items distributed to the Party members included thirty motorcycles, 750 food items and cash gifts for 750 for 50 people in each ward.

Meanwhile, a former lawmaker during the 7th Assembly, Prince Michael Adetoyi and his followers from Odo Otin Local Government, officially decamped from the All Progressive Congress, APC to the People’s Democratic Party. 

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Crime

Adeleke Looks Into Case of Man Sentenced To Death for Stealing Fowl

By Web News 525

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has directed immediate investigation on the case of a young man reportedly sentenced to death by hanging in Osun State for stealing a fowl.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor ordered the Attorney General to intervene in the matter and ensure the young man is listed for the prerogative of mercy before the end of the year.

“I have read about the case. I recognize the separation of powers in our democracy. In this particular case, I have directed the Commissioner for Justice to initiate processes to grant a prerogative of mercy to the young man.

The governor maintained that Osun is a land of justice and equity and must ensure fairness and protection of the sanctity of lives. 

He assured the public that the government would as a matter of urgency respond to the matter.

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Economy

Osun, SMEDAN to Forge Partnership for Economic Growth

By Web News 507

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Government has assured the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN of its partnership.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, who gave the assurance in Osogbo at the opening of the 2024 SMEDAN/MSME Opportunity Fair in the Southwest, said the government and SMEDAN are partners in the growth and development of the national economy.

Governor Adeleke explained that the government has a duty to strengthen the capacities of small businesses by implementing ease of doing business which involves harmonizing taxes, providing infrastructure, opening access to finance and ensuring security for business operations.

He noted that businesses must be strengthened regarding management capacity, branding, marketing and networking which SMEDAN had been acting on. 

The governor commended the management of SMEDAN for its passionate commitment to developing and strengthening small businesses.

He directed the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry to work on the signing of a new MOU between SMEDAN and the Osun State Government stressing that they must forge a very robust relationship to grow small businesses in the country.

Earlier, the Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN, Dr Charles Odii had commended Governor Adeleke for his policies towards enhancing the economy of Osun State.

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Education

First Lady Inaugurates Alternative High School for Girls

By Web News 347

By Funmi Ojo

Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has identified Education as a means to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

Senator Tinubu stated this at the inauguration and handing over of Alternative High School for Girls in Osogbo, Osun State, under the Renewed Hope Initiative of the office of the First Lady of Nigeria.

She noted that education is not merely a privilege, but a fundamental human right, regardless of gender or circumstance. This, she said aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu explained that the Renewed Hope Initiative would continue to champion programmes that empower girls, women and youth across the country, towards a better life for families. 

She said through the facilities, girls and women would not only be given a second chance at formal education, but they would also be equipped with life skills to rebuild their confidence, independence, and potential to contribute meaningfully to society.

“Today’s commissioning marks the fulfilment of a commitment I made during the Launch of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) #WeAreEqual Campaign in Nigeria on the 13th of May, 2024 using Education as my focus under the theme: “Education as a Powerful Tool for Change, No Girl Left Behind”. This is to ensure that all women and girls regardless of their circumstance have access to quality education”. 

Senator Oluremi Tinubu advised the beneficiaries of the Alternative school not to allow their past to define them but to make use of the opportunity with determination and focus.

She commended the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke and his wife, Mrs. Titilola Adeleke for their role and efforts in approving the land upon which this school stands.

In his address, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke appreciated the efforts of the President in deepening the unity among the state of the nation.

Governor Adeleke said giving quality education initiatives is in line with fighting poverty and building a future for girls and society.

In a remark, the Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, Dr. Hamid Boboyi noted that the Alternative High School for girls is to ensure every girl from any part of the country receives education 

Innovative academic programs, skills acquisition and mentorship are to make girls are trained.

Also Speaking, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad said President Tinubu’s administration places a high premium on education, especially for girls, hence, the Alternative School for Girls was designed to provide opportunities for girls who dropped out of school due to lack of finance or other circumstances. 

Earlier, the wife of Osun State Governor, Yeye Titilola Adeleke had commended Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her commitment to providing quality education for young girls and women in Osun State.

Present at the event were wives of Governors from Oyo, Lagos, Ogun and Ekiti states, the wife of the Chief of Staff to President, Alhaja Fasilat Gbajabiamila, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji and other dignitaries.

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Economy

Tax reforms meant to reduce burden  – NOA

By Web News 419

By Mojisola Oladele

The Director General, National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu has reiterated that the ongoing Tax Reforms Policies by President Bola Tinubu are aimed at making the tax payment system flexible and less burdensome for Nigerians.

Mallam Issa-Onilu stated this in an interview with Radio Nigeria, Gold FM, in Osogbo, on issues bothering the state of the Nation including the Tax Reform Bills, HIV/ AIDS, Security Awareness and Discouraging Get Rich Syndrome amongst the Youth.

Represented by the Director, Community Development, Mrs Olubukola Olorunfemi, the NOA DG explained that the existing Tax system was old, hence there was a need for a total overhauling, for the benefit of Nigerians.

Mallam Issa-Onilu noted that the four tax bills including the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill under consideration at the National Assembly aimed to stop double taxation, reduce the tax burden of low-income earners, make the process simple and transparent.

Speaking on reducing HIV/ AIDS in society and get-rich-quick syndrome amongst the youths, the NOA DG, cautioned Nigerians against unprotected sex and advised them to ensure they know their HIV/AIDS status to curtail the spread of the virus.

Mallam Issa-Onilu admonished youths not to shun the “get rich quick syndrome and to remain focused on their academic, vocational and career pursuits.

He urged parents and guardians to ensure the proper upbringing of their children as this would enhance their future and the well-being of society.

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Environment

My administration is committed to equitable development – Gov. Adeleke

By Web News 366

By Funmi Ojo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State says his government will not relent in creating and recreating facilities to ease and enhance the economic and social life of Osun people.

Governor Adeleke stated this at the commissioning of the intercity road between the Otan-Ayegbaju and Iresi, breaking a 44-year jinx of abandonment.

Addressing hundreds of Iresi and Igbajo people, royal fathers and leaders who stayed up late into the evening waiting to receive him, the Governor said the commissioning of Iresi-Otan Ayegbaju inter-city road was a continuation of his midterm anniversary which he said will continue till next week.

The Governor said his administration is committed to equitable development of all parts of the state despite attempted blackmail by the opposition which is promoting ethnic division among the people.

“Today, we are here to open for public use, an historic road that has been in a state of disrepair since the second republic. For the past 44 years, this road has remained unattended to. 

“I thank God that today our administration has broken the jinx of four decades. We have delivered on our promise to ensure productive connectivity between and among our people. I congratulate the people of Iresi and Otan Ayegbaju on this significant milestone”.

While noting that good governance is not dictated by ethnic or religious considerations, Governor Adeleke said his government is an agent of development for all people, treating all towns and cities as his constituency without fear or favour. 

He maintained that his administration is opposed to politicisation of development adding that Politics must be an instrument of development and not a tool to divide and retard the progress of the people.

“As for me and my team, we will deploy state resources to build our roads, airports, water systems, schools, hospitals as well as attending to the social and soft Infrastructure needs of our people.

The road is a total of 7.5 kilometers, which includes three kilometres Iresi township roads and the 4.5 kilometers Otan Ayegbaju-Iresi road.

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Transportation

Ministry of Aviation Suspends Foundation-Laying of Osun Airport

By Web News 548

By Mojisola Oladele

The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has announced the suspension of the planned foundation-laying ceremony for the Osun State International Airport.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Emmanuel Meribole disclosed this in a letter sent to the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke.

Mr Meribole noted that the decision followed several petitions challenging the relocation of the Airport from its present location at Ido-Osun to Akoda, Ede.

He said there is a need for the Governor to reschedule the foundation laying ceremony of the Osun State Airport pending the resolution of the petitions and selection of a mutually agreed date.

The Ministry, the letter noted,” prioritizes the judicious use of public resources and has requested the temporary suspension of the project to reassess its necessity and long-term benefits to the state and the country.”

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Economy

Debt Profile: DMO Data Vindicates Us – Osun Govt

By Web News 292

By Funmi Ojo

The Spokesperson to Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Mallam Olawale Rasheed says the data released by Debt Management Office has vindicated Governor Adeleke-led administration on the debt profile of the state.

He said as against the falsehood published by an online news platforms and amplified by the All Progressives Congress (APC), State External Debt according to the DMO has reduced by 15% while Domestic Debt reduced by 42%.

In a statement, Mallam Rasheed noted that the Domestic debt of Osun was 148.37 billion naira as at December 2022 but reduced to 86.06 billion naira as at June 2024 while Foreign Debt as at December 2022 was 91.78 million dollars but reduced to 78.17 million dollars as at June 2024.

He said, the truth remains that Osun State Debt profile has actually reduced under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke in the last two years as data doesn’t lie and cannot be hidden.

“What that means is that the Domestic debt of Osun reduced by 42% and also the External debt reduced by 15% within two years of our administration.

“What this also mean in terms of figures is that Governor Adeleke has paid back #62.31billion as domestic debt and paid off $13.61million in foreign debt, this is the burden the APC led past administration imposed on the people of the state. If this administration didn’t inherit those debt, these said amounts would have been better used for the good people of Osun state.

Mallam Rasheed pointed out that the online medium failed to do fact check adding that Governor Adeleke has not taken any loan.

“There is transparency and accountability in this government. We are concerned about the welfare of the people and we will keep doing that”.

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Infrastructure

Road: No plan to demolish Ilesa Central Mosque – Adeleke

By Web News 300

By Funmi Ojo

Governor Ademola Adeleke has responded to the appeal of the Ijesa Muslim Community on the ongoing Ilesa road dualisation, reassuring the Muslim faithful that there is no plan to demolish the Ilesa Central Mosque.

The Governor who spoke through his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, noted that the assurance given during the ‘Ipade Imole’ remains.

He urged the Muslim ummah not to entertain any fear as the mosque would remain intact as only the extended canopies would be affected.

The Governor has also directed officials of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to interface with the Muslim leaders on the subject matter. 

While commending stakeholders for actively supporting the ongoing dualisation at Ilesa, the Spokesperson explained that the Governor is committed to the implementation of the multi-billion naira Infrastructure upgrade with a focus on local content and active community engagement and collaboration.

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Environment

Ekosin Fire: Osun Speaker Seeks NEMA’s Support

By Web News 280

By Mojisola Oladele 

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun has called on the State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke and the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, to step in and lend support to the recovery and rebuilding efforts in the Ekosin town.

Prince Egbedun  in a  Statement through his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Mr. Olamide Tiamiyu disclosed this, following a recent fire outbreak which occurred in Ekosin town, Odo-Otin Local Government Council Area of the state.

He stressed that as a result of the inferno, property worth millions of naira were destroyed.

Prince Egbedun, however, appealed for monetary donations and volunteer efforts, from well- meaning individuals in the state to assist those affected by the inferno in Ekosin town .

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Communication

Fact Checking Imperative for Media – Osun REC

By Web News 300

By Mojisola Oladele

The media need to avoid misrepresentation and circulation of important issues and events that affects the Public.

The Resident Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Dr. Mutiu Agboke made the call during a courtesy visit to the correspondent chapel of the Nigerian Union of journalists in Osogbo, Osun State capital.

Dr Mutiu Agboke said it was imperative for the media to fact check and asks questions in cases of doubt in daily reportage.

He appealed to the media to help sensitize the Public by erasing the negative perception that the Electoral Commission already had prepared results, therefore there was no need to cast votes.

The Osun INEC boss emphasized that the only panacea for violence-free ,fair and credible election in Nigeria is when the eligible voters change their negative perception about  INEC, shun violence and vote buying.

In his welcome remark, the chairman of correspondent chapel, Mr Sina Abubakar gave assurance that journalists in the state would be consistent and objective in their reportage .

Mr. Abubakar urged Dr Agboke to provide journalists necessary information for objective reportage, stressing that effective partnership would help to promote violence free election.

 “We must address violence and vote buying. The question we must ask ourselves are who are those involved in vote buying? Who are those creating violence during elections? This is why we are leveraging on various stakeholders like NUJ to fight against this menace.

“This rapport we are having will go a long way to assist the INEC towards delivering a credible election.”

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Religion

Rescheduled Flight: Osun Gives Intending Pilgrims N15,000

By Web News 210

By Folake Oye

Each of the 160 intending pilgrims going to perform this year’s hajj from Osun State but are yet to be airlifted has received a sum of N15,000 each.

About 1,432 pilgrims from the state had been airlifted to Saudi Arabia, with the remaining 160 still in Nigeria, awaiting their flight.

 A statement by the Executive Secretary, Osun State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board,Mr Muritala Fakunle indicates that the last batch of pilgrims from the state, comprising 325 pilgrims were to be airlifted on Sunday but due to a delay in the flight schedule, only 165 were airlifted, leaving 160 pilgrims awaiting the next schedule.

Mr Fakunle explained that the gesture of the state government was as a result of the rescheduled flight.

He appealed to them to remain calm and patient, as efforts were being made to ensure their early airlift to Saudi Arabia.

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Human Angle

Free Registration for PLWD in Osun

By Web News 356

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has directed the registration of citizens with disabilities without a fee.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Needs, Mr. Kamil Aransi, in a statement, said the registration exercise wwould be done in ten days from Monday, May 27, 2024, to Friday, June 7, 2024.

Mr. Aransi explained that the registration would assist the government in knowing the precise number of people with special needs, especially in terms of wants and demands such as physical, sensory, cognitive, and intellectual impairments.

He said the data gotten from the registration would help government develop targeted programs and services, ensuring that individuals with special needs received the necessary support and resources to lead fulfilling lives.

Mr. Aransiola described Governor Adeleke as a compassionate leader, who cares for people with special needs to make life easy for them.

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Education

Fix Rot in Education Sector, Cleric Tells Adeleke

By Web News 370

By Mojisola Oladele 

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has been urged to focus more on people in the grassroots by providing stable and efficient local government leadership, water, security and health facilities.

The Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Osogbo, The Most Reverend John Oyejola made the call during his courtesy visit to the Governor Adeleke at the Government House, Osogbo.

Bishop Oyejola, who explained that many schools in rural areas were not conducive for learning and teaching activities, appealed to him to urgently fix the rot in the education sector.

He also urged the Governor to return some public schools that government seized from the Church as a way of revamping the education sector in the state.

While lauding the governor for renovating Primary Health Centres in the state, the cleric urged him to provide sustainable electricity and water at the facilities.

In his remarks, Senator Adeleke said his administration was working on partnering with investors in areas of agriculture, power generation to boost the economy of Osun, noting that his government had performed so well on areas of abandoned projects by previous administrations.

The governor pointed out that his government had invested greatly on healthcare, especially in the rural areas, insisting that his administration has not borrowed a dime since inception.

Senator Adeleke, who said the request for return of schools to the Church would be put into consideration, Senator Adeleke solicited for continuous prayers of Bishop Oyejola and his entourage for him to deliver the good vision he has for Osun people.

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Agriculture

It is imperative that women engage in farming – POWA

By Web News 322

By Mojisola Oladele

The Wife of the Inspector General of Police and President of Police Officers’ Wives Association, POWA President, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun wants women to engage in agriculture in other to address food security in the country.

Mrs. Egbetokun made the call during an event held at the Police headquarters, Osun State.

She stressed the need for all women to utilize their resources and skills to engage in farming to contribute to a more food-secure future for Nigeria.

Mrs. Egbetokun lauded the leadership style of the State Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Muhammed in ensuring the safety and security of Osun State.

She reiterated that POWA would continue to support to their spouses as they uphold the law and protect the communities.

The Wife of the IGP described the association as a vital network of support, fostering unity, resilience, and empowerment among police families nationwide.

“Am encouraging women to venture into farming through ”Young Women in Agriculture under the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), to promote food security in our country,” Mrs. Egbetokun said

“It’s with great pleasure that I am here before you today as the National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), representing the dedicated spouses of our nation’s law enforcement officers,” Mrs Egbetokun submitted

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Crime

Police Apprehend Man with Illegal Firearm

By Web News 1014

By Mojisola Oladele 

Nigeria Police, Osun State Command has apprehended a twenty-two year old Man, Olatunji Damilola in possession of unlawful firearm.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Yemisi Opalola disclosed this to newsmen in Osogbo.

Mrs Opalola said the Police received a report on the 18th of this month that some group of individuals engaged themselves in physical brawl along Balogun Agoro Junction, Osogbo.

She stressed that a team of operatives from Police Response Unit, PRU swung into action and were able to apprehend the suspect, Olatunji Damilola, popularly known as Damoshe.

Mrs. Opalola said upon investigation and interrogation some exhibits were recovered including; 4 pump action guns, three cut to size barrel gun, one locally made pistol, one jack knife, ten cutlasses and thirty three live cartridges of ammunition.

She assured that efforts are on to apprehend other suspects in connection with the case as the suspect would be charge to court after the investigation. 

The State Police Public Relations Officer, who cautioned people against going around with unregistered vehicles or covered number plates, urged people to give prompt credible information to the police always.

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