Transportation

Oyo Govt Mulls Interim Committee for Park Management System

By Web News 465

By Iyabo Adebisi

In a bid to find lasting solution to the crises rocking park management system PMS, Oyo State Government is to set up an interim committee to oversee the management of the transportation system in the state. 

This was unanimously agreed upon by warring factions in the transport unions in the state at a town hall meeting organised by Oyo State Government to reposition PMS for good governance and sustainable development held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan. 

Reading the communiqué, the Director Public Works Transport, Olatunde Olasunkanmi said the chairman of the committee would be appointed by the Governor, and would be a technocrat in transport planning and management, and would be impartial.

The communiqué indicates that members are to be drawn from various verified transport operative groups. 

It reads in parts “Government representative from various of works and Transport; Land, Housing and Urban Development; Justice; Environment and Water Resources; Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters; Finance; Security Operatives; State Transport Management Mgency” make use of branch leaders (probably at zonal levels)

“Collection of revenue should be handled by the committee through staff appointed by the committee. Office should be created within the state secretariat of the committee for its operation”

“Test run the system for three months and prepares operational report for the government”

“Government through the committee should profile all operators in the state. The committee should take census of all streets to avoid public disturbance”

“Government should have a succession plan for PMS operation in the state. Government should provide good security apparatus for the operations of the committee”

Earlier, the representative of the Oyo Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Williams, who is the deputy, Commissioner of Police, Akinade Adejobi read riot act to members on illegal possession of arms. 

The CP therefore urged PMS members in possession of arms to submit them to the police or face the full wrath of law. 

The gathering had crops of representative of Oyo State Government, Transport related agencies, civil servants, transport operators, groups, civil organizations, community leaders etc, including Deputy National Chairman, People’s Democratic Party, PDP South West, Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja.

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Education

We’ll provide conducive environment for public-private partnerships – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 544

Oyo state government has promised to continue to provide conducive environment for public-private partnerships to strive in the education sector, to stem the tide of all forms of malpractices.

Commissioner for Education, Mr Rahman Abduraheem stated this while addressing a gathering of educationists from across the country who converged at the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) conference in Ibadan.

Mr Abdulraheem, represented by Permanent Secretary and Inspector General of Education, Mr Delani Binuyo, noted that the state government’s efforts to provide free compendium of past questions for both public and private schools was a sign of robust relationship with the private sector.

The commissioner said the choice of theme “Revamping Africa Education for Sustainable Development: Private Education Perspective” was in line with the focus of UNESCO, 

Earlier, National President, NAPPS, Chief Abayomi Otubela sought collaboration with parents, guardians and religious leaders to address the rising social vices and combat all forms of malpractice.

Chief Otubela noted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to groom young ones with high-level moral standards saying students in primary and secondary schools should be introduced to conducting research into solutions to problems in their environment. 

He implored both the state and federal governments to increase security around schools to stem the tide of kidnappings within the school environment.

Mosope Kehinde 

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Economy

UNICEF, Oyo Govt Collaborate on Poverty Eradication

By Web News 678

Oyo State Government and the United Nations Children’s Funds (UNICEF) on Thursday, agreed to tackle poverty through cash transfers to the vulnerable and the extremely poor in the society.

The Commissioner for Economic and Budget Planning, Prof. Musbau Adetunji Babatunde said the Social Protection Policy programme would alleviate extreme poverty and enhance sustainable economic growth in Oyo State.

He said the critical role social protection plays in combating poverty and supporting the vulnerable necessitated the validation of Oyo State Social Protection Policy.

Babatunde said this after a 2-day Validation of Oyo State Social Protection Policy organized by the Oyo State Ministry of Economic and Budget Planning in collaboration with UNICEF held in Ibadan.

Prof. Musbau Adetunji Babatunde said, one of the cardinal points of Governor Seyi Makinde’s led administration was to tackle poverty and to make life better for residents of Oyo State.

The Commissioner said, “social protection is a set of interventions whose objective is to reduce social and economic risk and vulnerability, and alleviate extreme poverty and deprivation hence the preparation of draft policy to make life meaningful for the vulnerable among the citizenry”.

“This programme is designed to eliminate poverty and vulnerability by promoting efficient labour markets, diminishing people‘s exposure to risks, and enhancing their capacity to manage economic and social risks such as unemployment, exclusion, sickness, child rights, people living with disability and old age.”

He stressed further that, “Social Protection Policy programmes will alleviate extreme poverty and enhance sustainable economic growth, through cash transfer for the vulnerable and the extremely poor, home-grown school feeding programme, job creation & youth empowerment, financial inclusion & other empowerment interventions programmes and projects.”

On behalf of the Oyo State Government, he admonished members of the committee to reflect the essence of inter-agency collaboration required in tackling problems associated with poverty and vulnerability in the State.

Earlier in his opening remark, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Economic and Budget Planning, Ademola Ajibola commended the present administration in Oyo State for partnering with Development Agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and other notable private organizations in the task of making lives more meaningful and comfortable for the citizenry.

Represented by Mr. Ademola Adediran, he thanked UNICEF for supporting the State, adding that the support would be sustained to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the policy in the State.

Meanwhile, a representative of UNICEF in Oyo State, Mrs. Hope Oduma has commended Engr. Seyi Makinde’s administration for its willingness and commitment to ensure the realisation of the social protection policy. 

She added that UNICEF was proud to collaborate with the Oyo State government, in realizing the goals of solving poverty and vulnerability issues.

The event was witnessed by top government functionaries including, the Oyo State Statistician-General, Mr. Teslim Adejuwon, SSA on Budget, Kehinde Ogunsaya, SA Legal to the Governor, Ms. Ifedolapo Ologuro among others. 

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Security

Oyo Govt to Boost Security Operations

By Web News 470

Oyo State Government has approved the purchase of 25 JAC Pick-up Vans for security operatives in the State at the sum of N603, 881,250.00.

The Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun made this known while briefing journalists after the executive council meeting held at the Oyo State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Dr Olatunbosun said that the JAC Pick-up vans would enhance the security of lives and properties in the state.

He noted that the Council also approved the purchase of security equipment for Oyo State Joint Security Task Force, Operation Burst at the cost of  N175,4 million.

The Commissioner equally explained that arrangements have been concluded for the commissioning of the Idi-Ape-Odogbo Barrack Road and General Gas Flyover to be performed by the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi. 

He said: “We just finished the state Executive Council meeting. The Council gave approval for the purchase of 25 JAC PRISON Pick-ups for security operatives in Oyo State at the sum of N603, 881,250.00 only.

“Second is the provision of security equipment for Oyo State Joint Security Task Force, Operation Burst to enhance and protect the personnel of the outfit. The money approved for this is N175, 498, 50.00 only.

“We also discussed extensively the forthcoming commissioning of Idi-Ape-Basorun-Akobo-Odogbo Barracks dualisation project, which will come up on Thursday afternoon by 3:30pm.”

Iyabo Adebisi

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Environment

Waste Evacuation: Oyo Govt Confirms Verification of 120 PSPs

By Web News 422

 …introduces a more robust door-to-door waste management architecture

The Oyo State Government has announced that One-hundred and twenty private waste collectors have been verified, adding that they will work with the new waste management consultant.

This Honourable Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, dropped the hint during a live programme on a radio station in Ibadan. 

Olatubosun argued that the new Zero Waste Zero Budget Initiative, driven by Mottainai Recycling Ltd, was aimed at bringing genuine PSPs into the sector, which will relieve the government of the huge burden in the State’s waste management. 

Dr. Olatubosun said the Oyo State Government did not embark on a solo operation, as adequate consultation was made with Private Sector Participants (PSPs) and other stakeholders before the PSPs were asked to reapply.

“Before embarking on this verification process, the State government consulted all PSPs”, he said.

Speaking further, Olatubosun said that the newly verified waste collectors will commence door-to-door waste collection and evacuation across the state this month, to augment the work already being done by Mottainai Recycling Ltd in mopping up the medians.

Olatubosun also said this new development confirms that the State Government and PSPs, are not at loggerheads over the introduction of the Zero Waste Zero Budget Initiative.

He added that the verification exercise came barely three months after the State Government terminated the contract of PSPs in the state, saying most of them do not have capacities to manage the waste generated in the state.

Olatubosun said: “We want to reassure you that the new waste consultant, Mottainai Recycling Ltd, is an experienced waste manager. With the recently verified PSPs, they will consolidate the Oyo State Government’s waste management architecture. Everybody must work together to keep Oyo State clean.”

The Commissioner further asserted that the new policy is aimed at managing, protecting, and sustaining the development of the Oyo State waste and landfill sector. 

Olatubosun, therefore, urged the verified waste collectors to be ready for work and set aside any misgivings, assuring them of Government’s support to achieve a cleaner Oyo State.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Economy

Oyo Govt Explains Delay in Workers’ Audit, Payroll Verification

By Web News 580

…Confirms Fixing Challenges

The Oyo State Government has hinged the delay in the outcome of workers’ audit and verification on the failure of about 12, 000 workers in the State Civil service to participate in the exercise.

Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, who made the disclosure in Ibadan, also confirmed that the State Government has mandated the yet-to-be registered workers to do so in earnest.

He stressed the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration to establish a comprehensive database and proper identity management system that would aid effective payment and verification of its workforce.

He said, “despite critics castigating the registration and verification of its workforce, the Oyo State Government has expressed continued commitment to the entire civil service”.

Dr. Olatubosun insisted that after completion, the registration will block every loophole in the state civil service and guard against the menace of ghost workers. 

Olatubosun who confirmed that the process started over a year ago, expressed displeasure over the insinuation that the exercise was a scam, saying such rumour was made without facts.

He announced that having completed the process, the State Government will fish out ghost workers and ascertain the number of workers and retirees on the government payroll.

“Except for the unfounded insinuations from some quarters, the Oyo State Government is encouraged by the response of citizens, residents, and workers to the ongoing exercise. Many Civil servants have registered so far and those who are yet to, have been given the opportunity to. In the workforce, this will block so many loopholes’ Olatubosun stated.

‘I am aware that new registrants are at the ICT office, participating in the audit exercise for workers’, he stated.

“With the development, civil servants, public officials, teachers, local government employees and retirees have been screened in phases during the exercise that commenced over a year ago at the state secretariat in Ibadan”.

Dr. Olatubosun said the exercise which is aimed at ascertaining the people drawing money from the government’s coffers, added that the exercise was not basically about verification of certificates, but for the government to curb wastage, plug leakages in its payroll and have valid data for planning.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Environment

Oyo Govt, Traders Chart New Course on Waste Management

By Web News 606

The Oyo State Government in partnership with Mottainai Recycling Limited has met with traders and artisans to proffer collective solutions to the waste management problems.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun in Ibadan indicated that the meeting was part of efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Earlier in his remark, the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun noted that government cannot make the state clean alone without involving all the stakeholders and calling on them for support.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Abiodun Oni, urged traders and artisans to embrace the new waste management of zero waste, zero budget initiative. 

He said the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration was harnessing opportunities in public and private waste management to drive a sustainable city and urban circular economy.

The Commissioner further said that the present administration wants to make life bearable for residents with the involvement of a consultant (Mottainai Recycling Limited) to make the state clean and habitable with individual input. 

“We have had this challenge of cleaning the city. We just thought that as we continue the process of keeping the city clean, we should engage the stakeholders as well”, Oni said.

“This is a new initiative that we introduced: a zero budget initiative. The people should expect a clean environment, while we also target a waste to wealth initiative”, he added. 

He said the Government was strategizing such that the traders would pay a little token to get their wastes cleared, he, therefore, urged them to cooperate with the consultant, in ensuring a healthy and clean environment. 

He said the State government launched the initiative to overhaul the state’s solid waste management system. 

“We must be able to challenge the people and communities who produce the majority of the waste to exercise greater responsibility in the disposal of their waste, while also exploring funding strategies to address the issues”, he said. 

He said, “we must be aware that we are all the recipients of personal deviations and that waste generated must be disposed off through the proper waste management channels”.

Speaking also, the Managing Director, Mottainai Recycling, Mr. Ade Adewuyi said the new initiative would allow residents to pay little or nothing for waste management.

He said his firm was set to sort and buy wastes from waste creators and generators in the state, pointing out that flooding and epidemics are caused by solid waste being dumped in various places, hence the need to ensure solid waste recycling. 

Speaking on behalf of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), the Executive Chairman, Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi commended the initiative, adding that the consultant needed to work with local governments in the state.

He said that waste management in the state ought to be a collective responsibility of all, urging residents to cooperate with the new consultant.

In her words, a market leader, Chief Mrs. Labake Lawal enjoined the State Government to consider the reintroduction of weekly and monthly environmental sanitation.  

She equally expressed her concerns about the State’s waste management problems, adding that the Market leadership was ready to work with the State Government and the new consultant. 

“Our State, like many other developing nations around the world, faces difficulties and inadequacies in waste management, which are particularly acute in Oyo State,” she said.

Oluwakayode Banjo

Transportation

Oyo Govt. FRSC to Rid Roads of Bikes without Particulars

By Web News 473

The Oyo State Government has expressed its readiness to work with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to ensure that no motorcycle operates without a registered number plate and particulars within the state.

This was revealed by the Chairman, Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue, Mr. Adebowale Olufemi Awakan, during a familiarization visit to the board by the new Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Corps Commander Joshua Oluwafemi Adekanye on Thursday.

The Chairman stated that commercial motorcycles popularly called ‘Okada’, are so many in Oyo State and particularly in Oke Ogun side, where it is a major source of transportation and a lot of them operate without having a registered number plate, which is important documentation.​

He said the development was a threat to the security of the state and sought the collaboration of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Oyo State Command, to ensure that all motorcycles operating in Oyo State have registered number plates and particulars.

Furthermore, Mr. Awakan added that an enforcement exercise will start​ soon, which will see to it that if any motorcycle is not properly registered, it will be impounded and​ promised a good working relationship with the new Federal Road Safety Sector Commander and the FRSC as a whole.

While stating the purpose of the visitation, Corps Commander Joshua Oluwafemi Adekanye, who has just been posted to the Oyo State Command, explained that it was to familiarize the body with the Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue as a serious stakeholder as far as the federal agency is concerned.

Corps Commander J.O. Adekanye added that in the recent rating by the FRSC, Oyo State came 5th position and this means that Oyo State was doing very well in terms of revenue generation.

“The major reason for this visit is to familiarize ourselves with our State Board of Internal Revenue, the Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue is a serious stakeholder as far as FRSC is concerned, I also want to put it on record that in the last rating from the headquarters in Abuja, Oyo State came 5th and the meaning of this is that Oyo State is doing very well in terms of revenue generation.”

He, therefore, assured the State of his readiness to work together in harmony with the stakeholders to increase its revenue base.

Oluwakayode Banjo

Education

Oyo Govt Reinstates Teachers Sacked by Previous Administration

By Web News 448

The Oyo State Government has reinstated 129 public primary school teachers, unlawfully sacked by the previous administration.

The Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran stated this today while congratulating the teachers.

He said the Executive Council of Oyo State has approved that a total of 129 officers were wrongly dismissed by the Oyo State Government between 2011 and 2019 for reinstatement, subject to agreeing not to demand arrears payment for the period they were away which the state converted to leave of absence.

Dr. Adeniran appreciated the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde for his kindness and selfless consideration in administrating the Pacesetter State. 

He noted that the recent reinstatement of the state’s 129 school teachers who were fired by the previous administration, is a symbolic achievement that cannot be neglected.

“This is a plus for the education sector. Apart from being an addition to the dwindling number of teachers in the public primary sector, thousands of family dependents who have been subjected to untold economic hardship due to the layoff of their breadwinners will now have a new lease of life”, Adeniran said.

Dr. Adeniran, therefore, called on teachers in the state to reciprocate Makinde’s gesture, through a commitment to duties and redoubling their dedication to work.

He also called on them to key into the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration’s goal to change the narratives in the education sector of the state.

Oluwakayode Banjo

Judiciary

Oyo Undertakes Remodelling of Court Complexes

By Web News 704


Oyo State Government has approved the award of the contract for the remodelling and restructuring of the Oyo State High Court and Magistrate Court Complexes in Ibadan through the Alternative Project Funding Approach (APFA) to the tune of .N6bn.

The Commissioner for for Public Works, Infrastructure and Transport, Professor Daud Sangodoyin stated this while briefing newsmen in Ibadan after the executive council meeting.

Professor Sangodoyin explained that the construction of the High Court and Margistrate Court Complexes would be in two phases and would be completed within eighteen months.

The commissioner said the council has also that approved the reconstruction of the 2.275 kilometre Sijuade Road, Jericho, linking Akeredolu Street to the Police Barracks Gate and the main gate of the Police Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan at a cost of  # 683 million naira within the the duration of eight months.

In an another development,the State Exco has equally approved a new waste management initiative that would assist the waste management drive of the state government.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Abiodun Oni noted that the new waste management initiative was poised to solve the problem of waste management in the state.

Mr Oni urged  residents of Oyo State to stop throwing waste in canals and streams for a safe and clean environment.


Iyabo Adebisi

Crime

Oyo Govt. Seeks Traditional Institutions’ Participation in Anti-graft War

By Web News 471

The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) has called for the support of traditional rulers in order to win the ongoing war against corruption.

The Chairman, Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency, (OYACA), Hon. Justice Eni Esan (rtd.) said this today during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lekan Balogun at his residence in Ibadan. 

She noted that local communities would enjoy more dividends of democracy if traditional institutions play active roles in the fight against corruption.

Hon. Justice Eni Esan (rtd) insisted that for the fight against corruption in the state to be effective, traditional institutions must be involved, considering their influence in the society.

She equally noted that the Governor Seyi Makinde led-administration in line with its pledge to rid the state of corruption was determined to win the war, hence the establishment of OYACA in 2020.

“We need to involve traditional institutions, because you have strong influence over the people within their domain. We are certain you receive complaints from members of the public, so we earnestly appeal to you to refer any complaints on corruption to OYACA”, she said.

Justice Esan added, “The Olubadan-in-Council under your leadership could partner with us to rid Oyo state of corruption”.

Reacting, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, noted that everybody had a role to play in the war against corruption, adding that the visit was necessary in a bid to eliminate graft in the state.

The traditional ruler therefore pledged his support to the anti-graft agency’s activities in Ibadanland.

He further commended the Agency for being in the vanguard of Nigerians against sharp practices and urged them not to relent in their efforts.

“You are making an impact already in Oyo State, as Nigerians are getting more conscious of your job. Your agency is keeping our future alive”, he said.

On the Chairman’s entourage were the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Mr. Ibrahim Tijani and some other Board members.

E-signed:

Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Ph.D.,

Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism

Environment

Group Sends SOS to Oyo Govt over Iseyin Refuse Heaps

By Web News 636

A Socio-Cultural group of Iseyin descent, Ebedi Frontliners, Iseyin (E.F.I) has written a Save Our Soul (S.O.S) letter to the Oyo State government and the Chairman of Iseyin Local Government, Iseyin, Hon. Mufutau Abilawon, to urgently find a lasting solution to refuse evacuation system in the community, especially as it affected the community’s main market at Oja-Oba.

In a statement made available to newsmen, members of the group raised concern over the possible break of an epidemic as a result of heaps of refuse that they claimed littered the median divides along the Oja-Oba road, where many traders sit to sell foodstuffs, fresh fruits and other consumable goods at the market.
The statement, which was signed by the Ebedi Frontliners’ Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Segun Fasasi stated that the refuse evacuation method which took place once a week was unhealthy as mountains of refuse always adorned the roadsides before the once in a week evacuation exercise usually take place.
“We have observed over a period of time and have discovered that despite the increase in the number of residents as well as market men and women, the refuse is often heavily deposited on the main road and on the divider kerbs before the refuse is evacuated eventually, the disgusting sight and horrible smell that the refuse emits are second to none, apart from this, the situation becomes unhealthier as one realizes that the location is the area where most of the food items we consume are sold, the residents, passersby and shop owners are not safe from possible health hazard.
“To address this problem, we suggest that be evacuated daily or on alternate days till other remedies are found for easy refuse evacuation, to forestall accumulation of waste, environmental pollution and the possible health hazards that may result from there.”
The group used the medium to also call the attention of the State’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources to the poor working condition of streetlights in the community, as they said the ‘Light Up Oyo State’ project, which was well conceived to serve many good purposes in the State might become a mirage if not well maintained.
They called for immediate completion of ongoing streetlight projects in the community, while those already in place be made to work regularly, in order to serve the needs of the people in the area of stamping out criminalities and promoting social life, especially at the night.
“The case of the streetlights not being put to good use are the ones erected on the Iseyin township dual-carriageway, which since completion had only been lighted on rare occasions, to our dismay, new ones are being erected on other roads across the town and despite government allocation to power and maintain these new streetlights, the service provided is not satisfactory.
“Before the newly-installed streetlights become moribund like those installed during the last administration, we beseech your office for speedy attention on the said projects by repairing the old streetlights on our highways, complete the current project and make them all functional as envisioned by our amiable governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde,” they appealed.
Iyabo Adebisi

Health

“We’ll Continue To Curtail The Spread Of Lassa Fever” – Oyo Govt

By Web News 688

Oyo State government on Thursday reiterated its continuous efforts at curtailing the spread of the outbreak of Lassa fever since the first case in January 2022.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bode Ladipo, in a statement, available to Journalists in Ibadan on Thursday said that Four (4) health workers were confirmed positive for Lassa fever, while three out of them consisted of two (2) Doctors and another hospital staff died despite all efforts at caring for them by experts.

He explained that the state has recorded Nineteen (19) confirmed cases, noting that resources have been deployed to designated health facilities to forestall the spread of this disease across the State.

Ladipo maintained that the Surveillance activities have been heightened at the grassroots across the State, adding that access to care has been provided to all individuals at risk of this disease.

He enjoined individuals having symptoms such as fever, sore throat, vomiting, general body weakness, chest pain, back pain, cough, diarrhea, swollen face, eyes or neck, stomach pain or bleeding from ear, eyes, nose, mouth or any other body openings to report promptly to the nearest health facility or call the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on 08095394000 or 08095863000.

He implored all residents of the State to avoid contact with rats, contaminated of food items by rat feces, urine, and other body fluid while maintaining strict personal and environmental hygiene, noting that the virus causing this disease is transmitted from infected rats to humans or an infected human to other humans.

Ladipo charged all health facilities across the State to maintain a high index of suspicion and report all suspected cases to the LGA or State Health Authorities, adding that the provision of qualitative health care is a joint responsibility of all.

“I am here today to address the unfortunate incidence of the death of health workers of a private health facility in the State from Lassa fever. Four (4) health workers were admitted into the treatment center in the early days of the week. Upon diagnostic investigations, all four (4) were confirmed positive for Lassa fever. Unfortunately, three (3) of them died despite all efforts at caring for them by experts.”

“Oyo State Ministry of Health has continued to make frantic efforts at curtailing the spread of the outbreak of Lassa fever since the first case in January 2022. Nineteen (19) confirmed cases and four (4) deaths have been recorded so far. Surveillance activities have been heightened at the grassroots across the State. Access to care has been provided to all individuals at risk of this disease. Resources have also been deployed to designated health facilities to forestall the spread of this disease across the State.”

“The public is therefore admonished to remain calm while ensuring adherence to strict preventive measures. Individuals having symptoms such as fever, sore throat, vomiting, generalized body weakness, chest pain, back pain, cough, diarrhea, swollen face, eyes or neck, stomach pain or bleeding from ear, eyes, nose, mouth, or any other body openings should report promptly to the nearest health facility or call the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on 08095394000 or 08095863000.”

“It is important to note that the virus causing this disease is transmitted from infected rats to humans or an infected human to other humans. The Ministry hereby implores all residents of the State to avoid contact with rats, contaminated food items by rat feces, urine, and other body fluid while maintaining strict personal and environmental hygiene. “

“We implore all health facilities across the State to maintain a high index of suspicion and report all suspected cases to the LGA or State Health Authorities.
Let me at this juncture note that the provision of qualitative health care is a joint responsibility of all. Together we can curb the spread of Lassa fever in Oyo State.”

Adewumi Faniran /PR

Economy

NDE Signs MOU With Oyo Govt. On Skill Acquisition

By Web News 876

National Directorate of Employment, NDE has signed Memorandum of Understanding with Oyo state government to promote skill and economic self reliance.
The signing of the MOU between the two parties took place at the Agodi Government Secretariat,Ibadan.
National Directorate of Employment was established in 1987 as a manpower development agency to pursue two employment related objective of creating employment opportunities for self-employment, and enhancing employability by means of appropriate training.
Speaking at the signing in ceremony of the MOU,the Director general of NDE,Mallam Nuhu-Fikpo while commending Oyo state government for the initiative said the development would create employment for the youths in the state.
Mallam Nuhu-Fikpo said the NDE was determined to upgrade the training facilities to meet the yearnings of youths and women for skills and economic self reliance.
The DG NDE also said to meet the legitimate desire of unemployed youths on job creation,stakeholders must collolaborate.
Earlier,Governor Seyi Makinde who spoke through the Executive Assistant on Adminstration, Reverend Idowu Ogedengbe said the MOU was geared towards promoting employment of youths in the state.
Governor Makinde while admtting that the curriculum in the higher institutions has been redesigned to accomodate enterprenuer equally stressed the need to device ways of skilling and training many graduates and school leavers to take the advantages in the emerging trends in the primary and secondary sectors in the labour market.
Governor Makinde however called for mentoring and monitoring of youths under the patnership to achieve the aims and objectives of the MOU

Health

Oyo Govt. To Begin Distribution Of Insecticide Treated Nets Next Month

By Web News 1326

Oyo state government through the ministry of health will next month begin the distribution of over five million insecticide treated net to households across all local governments in the state.

Deputy Director Public Health, Ministry of Health, Dr. Olubunmi Ayinde who made this known at a media parley in ibadan said the exercise is in partnership with federal ministry of health and United state government through USAID.

Dr. Ayinde said the exercise is expected to begin on the 18th of next month after the distribution of mosquito net cards holding between 30th of July to August 7th which will serve as authorization to get the insecticide treated net.

Dr. Ayinde who explained that house mobilizers would only distribute the net cards and insecticide treated net to households, urged residents to make themselves available in their residences.

Also speaking, representative of Breakthrough action, an intermediary NGO between USAID and the state government, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Afachung said the last exercise was done in 2016 with over four million insecticide treated net distributed.

Mrs. Afachung however urged the media to continue to inform the people on benefit of insecticide treated net.

Mosope Kehinde

Judiciary

#ENDSARS: Family Seeks N20m Compensation from Oyo Govt

By Web News 691

The family of the late Gbolahan Adedoyin has pleaded for 20million naira compensation from the state government for the loss of their son, who was reportedly killed by a stray bullet from Operation Burst operatives in the early hours of 25th October, 2020.

They made this plea before the Oyo State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Police brutality led by Retired Justice Badejoko Adeniji in a petition with number OYJPPB/076.

The late Gbolahan Adedoyin was said to be returning from a night club outing in Mokola area, Ibadan on the fateful day in the company of five friends before he met his doom in Inalende area of the state capital.

During cross-examination of two witnesses, the deceased’s friend, Mr Olutayo Oladele and his uncle, Mr Adebiyi Ishola, the counsel to the respondent, Mr Kayode Babalola, argued that the deceased was probably poisoned and killed by his late night keeping friends as against the claim that he was killed by stray bullet from Operation Burst operatives.

After thorough consideration, the judicial panel adjourned the case indefinitely for proper response from the government

Funmilola Obagbayegun

Environment

Oyo Govt. Arrest Flouters of Environmental Law

By Web News 780

Oyo state government on Saturday arrested forty residents including vehicles and motorcycles numbering about one hundred and twenty-five for flouting environmental sanitation laws.

The offenders were immediately arraigned before the State Environmental Tribunal for sanctions and fines.

Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Afbdulateef Idowu Oyeleke who led the enforcement team during the monthly sanitation exercise along Bodija Secretariat road in Ibadan metropolis, expressed worries at the nonchalant attitude of the people towards the exercise. 

 He noted that despite the campaign against the scourge of filthy environment and the adoption of ‘clean and green initiative’ to rid the State off epidemic, people still go about their businesses during sanitation exercise. 

Dr. Oyeleke added that the arrest and sanction would serve as deterrent to others and appealed to citizens to take the exercise as a matter of obligation in order to make the State safer and healthier for people to live and invest.

Top government functionaries who were part of the enforcement and advocacy team include Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Bashir Olanrewaju, Chairman Environmental Task Force, ACP Francis Ojomo, Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Engr. Ademola Aderinto and Security operatives.

Dayo Adu

Environment

Monthly environmental sanitation holds on Saturday – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 605

The Oyo State Government has disclosed that National monthly environmental Sanitation exercise would hold tomorrow, Saturday, 30th January, 2021

According to a statement issued and signed by the Hon. Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Abdulateef Idowu Oyeleke, the sanitation exercise holds between the hours of 6:00am and 9:00am and there shall be total restriction of both vehicular and human movement except for those on essential duties

The statement directs all the Chairmen of Local Government and Local Council Development Areas to ensure compliance in their respective domains as it is expected that citizens utilize the period to clean their surroundings

The release further directs all Directors of Environmental Health Services in the 33 Local Governments and 35 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within the state to monitor the exercise as a matter of duty

The statement therefore enjoined shop owners, market men and women, security operatives, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria( RTEAN) Tricycle Owners and Operators Association of Nigeria(TOOAN) Association of Commercial Motorcycle Riders of Nigeria ( ACCOMORAN) and the general public to comply with this directive

Signed:

Dr. Abdulateef Idowu Oyeleke

Hon. Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources

 

Environment

Era of neglect of public project is gone – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 964

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has approved the construction of the second phase of Akesan Market in Oyo town following the completion of the first phase of the market, which was razed by fire in 2020.

He gave the approval during an assessment tour of the projects comprising 520 lock up shops, 168 open stalls, administrative block, warehouses and other ultra modern facilities

Governor Makinde expressed satisfaction on the quality of work done and commended the local contractor for executing the project accordingly 

He also noted that the second phase would be completed on scheduled and duly commissioned for use this year to enhance commercial activities in the town

The Oyo helmsman had earlier made an on-the-spot assessment tour to the 5.2km Gedu Oroki Sabo Asipa road rehabilitation project, where he stressed that the era of neglect of public project was gone. 

Earlier, the contractor handling the project hinted that the project was still in its early stage of work as only 7% of the project had been executed. 

Iyabo Adebisi

Economy

No going back on ultimatum on roadside trading – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 1001

On the 4th of January this year, the governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde prohibited roadside trading with seven days ultimatum issued to affected traders in some areas of Ibadan.

The environmental policy was meant to put an end to the hazards associated with the act.

Some of the areas affected according to Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Abdulateef Oyeleke, included Molete, Challenge, Ring-Road, Beere, Oje, Ojaaba and Iwo Road.

An assessment tour of some locations revealed that the traders had vacated the road in some parts of Challenge.

The story was different in Oje, Ojaaba and Dugbe markets as some traders still displayed their commodities on the roadside.

Radio Nigeria microphone caught up with the executives of Oje Market where street campaigns were undertaken to warn traders on the dangers of continued roadside trading.

Some of traders, who spoke on the new directive, said the policy was meant to protect them from unexpected hazards, but blamed their action on lack of shops.

The traders said leaving the roadside would affect their economic and profit making drive.

Speaking on behalf of the executives of Oje Market, the Assistant General Secretary, Oje Traders Association, Alhaji Dauda Abdulrahman and Babaloja Molete, Mr Wahab Bolarinwa, said regular mobilization and sensitization were being done to ensure total compliance.

The association also implored the state government to empower them to enforce the law to realise desired results.

In an interview, the Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Abdulateef Oyeleke said there was no going back on the directive.

He however said that any trader found violating the new development would face the wrath of law.

Akinola/Famakin

Education

State’s Tertiary Institutions, . Agree on Minimum Wage

By Web News 526

Oyo State Government has signed a new minimum wage agreement with the state owned tertiary institutions.

The agreement paper was signed at the Ministry of Education, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

Signing the documents, Commissioner for Education, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye stated that the agreement was in line with Federal Government’s circular of salary payment. 

In a remark, the chairman of the Joint Action Committee of all the trade unions in the state tertiary institutions, Mr Segun Oyewumi, said the agreement would benefit his members and urged the state government to fulfill the promises.

Iyabo Adebisi

Lifestyle

Oyo Govt. Partners NGO to Provide Care for the Elderly

By Web News 1025

Oyo State Government in partnership with a nongovernmental organization Prihemac is set to provide adequate care for the elderly ones in the society.

Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr Basir Bello gave the assurance an event organized by Prihemac in Ibadan.

Dr Bello pointed out that care for the elderly ones in the society was top on the agenda of the present administration.

The executive director of the non-governmental organization, Dr Martins Ogundeji said about one hundred members of the society had been trained as caregivers to render home services to the elders in the society.

High point of the event was presentation of award to some trained elderly friendly members in the society and presentation of award to Molete Baptist Church as the most elderly friendly church by the commissioner for health. 

Lilian Ibomor

Transportation

Iseyin-Moniya Road, other Projects under 80% Completion: Delivery by February – Oyo Govt

By Web News 724

….Says Vandalization of Public Facilities Will Attract Prosecution

The Iseyin-Moniya road and other projects embarked upon by the Oyo State government that are under 80 to 90% completion will be completed and commissioned by February 2021.

The State Government assured members of the public that other ongoing infrastructural development projects in the State presently at near completion stages would also be completed and commissioned in the next three months.

This disclosure was made by the Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Professor Daud Kehinde Sangodoyin on Friday while addressing members of staff of the Ministry when he resumed at the Ministry on at the weekend.

Sangodoyin was the Commissioner for Establishment and Training before his deployment to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport by Governor Seyi Makinde.

According to him, the time has called for a united front by all staffers of the Ministry so as to get works done as expected by the people and the government of the State.

“My target with His Excellency, the governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde before coming here is for all ongoing projects in the State presently at 80%-90% completion level to be completed and commissioned within the next 3-4 months because all the contractors have been well mobilized, therefore there should be no reason for any delay in the completion of the projects.

“For instance, the 65KM Moniya/Iseyin road project will be commissioned by February 2021 while other projects close to completion in the State will also be commissioned in the next three or four months to come.”

Professor Sangodoyin therefore charged the staffers of the Ministry to key into Governor Seyi Makinde’s developmental agenda by working diligently in the discharge of their duties.

He added that the government was out to serve the people and the service could only be achieved by joining hands to work as one family.

On the maintenance culture of the people towards public facilities, Professor Sangodoyin charged members of the public to be patriotic towards public properties as it obtained in other climes and always have a sense of belonging which would enable them to see the public properties as their own and maintain them as such.

“The public properties that are out there are put up to ease the living conditions of the public, the public should maintain them appropriately to enable the government to channel its resources towards other areas needed.

“We’ll enforce the use of government properties adequately, the public should also know that all these properties are put in place with the taxpayer’s money, anyone that vandalizes them will go to jail, I, therefore, advise the public to be patriotic towards public properties and maintain them accordingly.” 

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Architect Adebowale Kizito-Balogun appreciated the Executive Governor of the State, Engr. Seyi makinde for standing solidly behind the Ministry despite the many challenges it passed through, and for putting the right peg in the right hole.

He therefore admonished the staffers of the Ministry to extend the same hand of support they have always given to successive headships to the new Commissioner, by performing their duties diligently and be punctual at work.

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism,

Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MIC&T),

Health

COVID-19:Nigerian Red Cross donates PPE to Oyo Govt.

By Web News 947

Personal Protective Equipment worth millions of naira have been donated by the Nigerian Red Cross Society to Oyo State Government.

Our correspondent reports that the donation was a collaboration between the Nigerian Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and a Notable Bottling Company in Nigeria.

Chairperson, Nigerian Red Cross Society , Mrs. Mojisola Ojo said the donation was part of their corporate social responsibilities to the society and meant to serve as protective against COVID-19

Receiving the donations, Commissioner for Health in Oyo state, Dr. Bashir Bello said the items would be judiciously used for the purposes intended.

The items included three hundred boxes of surgical masks, two hundred and fifty pairs of examination gloves, seven thousand pieces of gown, one thousand four hundred pieces of disposable aprons and one hundred pieces of hand sanitizers.

Lilian Ibomor.

Environment

Oyo Govt. Re-awards Saki Township Road

By Web News 1112

Oyo State Executive Council has re-awarded Saki township road for the sum of #4.7 Billion.

The state Commissioner for Education, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye stated this while briefing newsmen after the weekly executive council meeting.

He explained that the Saki township road was initially awarded by the previous administration for over 8 billion naira with only 3 billion naira paid before it was revoked and re-awarded. 

Mr Olaleye who noted that the project would be completed within 12 months said it would be funded through an alternative funding approach with the contractor bearing the cost while government would refund over a period of 28 months .

Also speaking, the state commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Seun Ashamu noted that the executive council has also awarded the Gedu/Oroki/Sabo/Asipa road in Oyo town for a total sum of #2.9 billion.

Similarly, the state commissioner for justice, professor Oyelowo Oyewo, explained that the Oyo state government has approved the purchase of #84 million fire truck for the Ibadan Airport to improve its facilities for the prevention of fire accidents.

Professor Oyelowo gave the hint that the state government would revise the state Energy and Mineral Resources law of 2019 and modify its functions very soon.

Iyabo Adebisi