Judiciary

Trinity Guy: Sexual Exploitation Case Adjourned till March 25

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By Funmilola Obagbayegun

Oyo State Family Court 2, Iyaganku, Ibadan has adjourned a case of alleged sexual exploitation of a ten-year-old girl by skit maker Maruf Abdullahi, also known as Trinity Guy.

At the resumed hearing in the case, the defence counsel, Mr Dare Adebayo while cross-examining the prosecution witness queried if he had ever been to a correctional facility, to which he answered in the affirmative.

Also, at the hearing, the Chairperson, International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Oyo State chapter, Mrs Ademubowale Adelabu, said the association took interest in the case because it involved a minor.

Mrs Adelabu described the defendant’s action as sexual exploitation of a minor, calling for justice on behalf of the victim. 

After the submissions of both the Prosecutor and Defense Counsel as well as interested parties, Magistrate Serifat Adesina adjourned the case till March 25, 2025, for mention.

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Lifestyle

Ekanmem Philip-Ephraim: MDCAN Calls for End to Kidnapping

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By Lilian Ibomor

Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria, MDCAN, has called on the government at all levels to put an end to all forms of kidnapping in the country.

They made the call in a peaceful protest staged in Ibadan to mark fifty days since their colleague, a Professor of Neurology, Ekanem Phillip-Ephraim was kidnapped in her house in Calabar, Cross River State.

According to them, there has been no communication from the captors since she was abducted.

Speaking, the Vice Chairman, MDCAN, Oyo State Chapter, who spoke on behalf of the president, MDCAN, Dr. Victor Makanjuola, said this situation was uncalled for and needed urgent attention.

Earlier, Chief Medical Director, CMD, University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, Professor Jesse Otegbayo, said providing an enabling environment for medical practitioners cannot be over-emphasized while urging the government to take drastic steps before it leads to further exodus of medical practitioners.

Radio Nigeria observed that the protesters wore a white ribbon on their arms to show their solidarity for their kidnapped member.

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Health

More needs to be done to tackle GBV – AONN

By Web News 554

Association of Non-Governmental Organisations in Nigeria, AONN, Oyo State chapter has decried the rate of unreported cases of violence against women and vulnerable children in the society.

The association expressed the concern at a news briefing in Ibadan. 

According to the association, the Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey in 2018 found that nine per cent of women between the ages of 15 to 49 had suffered sexual assault at least once in their lifetime.

The coordinator, Mrs Petra Ogunfowokan enjoined federal and state governments and the private sector to create more centres where those violated could run to.

One of the speakers, Mr Abimola Lawal said most cases of Gender Based Violence, GBV, were due to social, economic, cultural, political and religious factors.

In the same vein, another speaker, Mrs Gloria Adeniran said Gender Based Violence in Nigeria could be curbed through sensitization.

Also, a member of the association, Mrs Rosemary Odigbo added that collaboration between the government and private sector would further help in stemming the tide of GBV in society. 

The news briefing was part of activities for the 16-day activism against gender-based violence. 

Funmilola Obagbayegun

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2022 Theme for 2022 World Health Day
Environment

Avoid activities that are unsafe for the environment – Experts

By Web News 644

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the 2022 World Health Day, environmental experts in Oyo State have called for caution in human activities that are inimical to a safe environment.

The experts gave the warning while speaking with Radio Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s World Health Day in Ibadan.

President, Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Mr Abiodun Adegoke explained that the government had initiated awareness programmes on the dangers of environmental degradation and the need to safeguard planet earth for healthy living.  

Speaking in the same vein, a medical expert, Dr Olawoye Tumise said a healthy environment is vital for human health sustenance and highlighted some avoidable diseases that are associated with an unhealthy environment.

Dr Tumise, however, advised Nigerians to always practice good hygiene and maintain safe environmental practices.

The theme for this year’s World Health Day is “Our Planet, Our Health”.

Fasilat Lawal

Lifestyle

NACOMYO Mourns Passage Of Olubadan

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National Council of Muslim Youths Organisations, NACOMYO has commiserated with Oyo State Government, family, Olubadan-in-council and Muslim Ummah over the passage of Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji.

This is contained in a condolence message in Ibadan by Coordinator, NACOMYO, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi.

The organisation prayed to Allah to forgive Oba Adetunji and reward him with paradise while praying also that He gives the royal family as well as Ibadan indigenes, home and abroad the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. 

NACOMYO described the monarch as a selfless leader, a role model and a conscious Muslim who gave all his best to ensure that Ibadan continues to gain prominence in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.

The organisation noted that Oba Adetunji was a great leader whose tenure of fewer than five years was full of positive development to Ibadan land and Oyo State as a whole.

NACOMYO urged the people to take solace in the fact that the monarch lived an impactful life and such should be a lesson that no matter how long one lives, the effects on others should be paramount. 

Ridwan Fasasi

Lifestyle

Oba Adetunji left a vacuum seriously difficult to fill – Oyo SWAN

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Members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Oyo State chapter have expressed shock at the journey of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso 1 to his ancestors. 

In a statement by Chairman, Oyo SWAN, Olaolu Fawole, the sports journalists described the journey of the royal father to his ancestors as very painful.

The association notes that the royal father would be greatly missed for his contributions to the development of the ancient city of Ibadan and Oyo state as a whole, particularly his indelible contributions to sports.

“We express our condolences to the family of the Olubadan, all Ibadan indigenes as well as residents of the ancient city”. His contributions to sports development in the state are unquantifiable and the royal father has left a vacuum that is seriously difficult for anyone to fill”. The statement added.

The 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland passed away this morning, Sunday, 2nd January 2022, at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan at the age of 93.

Olaolu Fawole 

Security

Agbekoya Peace Movement Inaugurates Oke-Ogun Executives

By Web News 2110

The Agbekoya Peace Movement Oyo State Chapter has inaugurated its branch executives in Saki to coordinate security activities in Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa axis.

The inauguration which was done at the Okere of Saki’s Palace had in attendance Oba Olabisi Oladepo and his chiefs.

Performing the inauguration, the head of Agbekoya Peace Movement in Oyo State, Alhaji Morufu Inaolaji warned members to shun any act that could tarnish the image of the association.

The Okere of Saki Land, Oba Oladepo advised members of the Agbekoya Peace Movement to protect the integrity of the group in order to sustain their credibility in Yoruba land.

The monarch urged the Agbekoya to continue to collaborate with other security agencies to fight insecurity in the area.

The new chief of Agbekoya Peace Movement, Oyo State Chapter who is also the head of Agbekoya in Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun axis, Chief Abioye Mogaji Gaji, promised to combat insecurity in the area.

Also in attendance during the inauguration are Aare Ogboni Of Oyo State, Chief Olalekan Oyebamiji, Alhaji Kabiru Olatunji, Pa Fashina and Romoke Asabi among others.

Bashir Suleman

Politics

MMPN Urges Federal Government To Reduce Cost Of Governance

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Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN has called on the Federal Government to reduce the cost of governance at all levels by 70 per cent to save money to embark on developmental projects.

This is contained in a communique by Chairman, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi at the end of the monthly meeting of the Association in Ibadan hosted by the Oyo State Ministry of Information.

MMPN note that a reduction in the cost of governance by 70 per cent will help to save more money as the Association believes that the cost of governance in the country is too high compared to the developed world.

The Association urges the federal government to shelve the idea of oil subsidy removal as such a move will lead to an increase in prices of fuel and other essential commodities thereby inflicting more suffering on the majority of the Nigerian masses.

MMPN similarly urges the federal government to take proactive measures in combating the new COVID-19 variant, dubbed Omicron, especially as the festive period is fast approaching with people travelling en-mass across the country.

The Muslim pen professionals equally appealed to the federal government to take proactive steps towards averting looming industrial action planned to take place in January 2022 by judicial workers “as the strike will affect quick dispensation of justice in the country”.

The association while reviewing recent happenings in the journalism profession in the state, advised media professionals to uphold the responsibility of being the watchdog of the society by avoiding practices that could lead to derailment from its journalistic ethos.

“The charade that led to the NUJ National election, the brouhaha that characterized NUJ, Oyo State Correspondent Chapel election and the recent State NAWOJ election where 2 factions are claiming leadership of the union is a show of shame which have soiled the watchdog responsibility of the media as well as its role model functions”.

MMPN equally called on the federal government to look into the issue of molestation of female Muslim students in public higher institutions of learning so as to allow Muslims to practice their religious beliefs.

“MMPN warns civil and public servants against being overzealous in implementing government circulars or taking steps that could lead to denial or infringement on Muslims fundamental human rights”.

The Association commends Special Assistant to Oyo State Governor on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Abdurasheed Abdulazeez for the prompt response and amicable resolutions to issues pertaining to Islam and at the same time lauds Engineer. Seyi Makinde for fulfilling his promise of fairness in the appointment of commissioners.

The Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria also congratulates the newly installed Chief Imam of Ogbomoso land and admonishes other zones in the state to emulate a method of choosing people with intimidating credentials into the exalted position.      

Ridwan Fasasi   

Lifestyle

My administration will reposition Oyo NAWOJ – Omolola Alamu

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Former Chairperson of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State Chapter, Mrs Folusho Lala has called on the candidate for the position of first woman journalist in the state to desist from a campaign of bitterness. 

She stated this at the flag-off of the campaign of Mrs. Omolola Alamu of Radio Nigeria and her team codenamed “The New Dawn” at NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku Ibadan.

Mrs. Lala stated further that the New Dawn Team campaign should be devoid of hate speech and propaganda that could destroy the peaceful atmosphere in the association. 

Also speaking, the former chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ in Oyo State, Mr. Gbenga Ayoade called on the New Dawn Team to shun do-or-die actions, and be friendly in their approach during their campaign. 

On his part, the chairman of FRCN NUJ Chapel, Alhaji Nafiu Busari expressed optimism that the team would emerge victoriously. 

In a remark, the New Dawn NAWOJ Chairperson candidate, Mrs. Omolola Alamu of Radio Nigeria, Ibadan National Station promised that the long quest for the better repositioning of Oyo NAWOJ would become a reality if she emerges victorious.

Other team members include Shakirat Oduoka vying for the position of vice-chairperson, Ramat Alade as secretary, Temilola Akarah as treasurer, Kehinde Igbari as assistant secretary and Temitope Oyewoke as financial secretary. 

Rasheedah Makinde

Religion

Oyo Government to Prevent Recurrence of Missionaries Preaching in Schools

By Web News 1060

Following the case of some foreign missionaries attached to Evangelist Daniel Kolenda visiting some public schools to preach, Oyo State Government has put measures in place to prevent future recurrence of such incidents. 

Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Barrister Abdulrahman Abdulraheem stated this in Ibadan at a programme reception organised by the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations of Nigeria, NACOMYO, Oyo State Chapter for new Muslim Commissioners, Local Government Chairmen, National Amirah of FOMWAN and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

Barrister Abdraheem explained that the measures would prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future emphasising that excesses like preaching in schools would be checked.

“We will make necessary amendments and forgive us and we are assuring you that such will not happen again”. 

“When I saw their letter of apology, I was happy but when there was a report the following day of another visit, it really saddened my heart but we have taken different steps and you will soon see the result”.

Barrister Abdulraheem said the case would not be swept under the carpet as thorough investigations were on to know how the team gained access into the schools without due process.

“There has been an existing circular regarding religious activities in schools which we update from time to time. If there is any visitor to our schools, even if they want to donate materials there, after meeting the principals, they must get approvals from the ministry before such visitors could address the students. We don’t allow students to interact with visitors without observing the protocols”. 

“The incident really baffled us in the ministry and personally I have sleepless nights on the case and we have taken a lot of steps which I might not be able to reveal now but I’m assuring you that the case will not be swept under the carpets. We must check such excesses”.

The commissioner exonerated both the Chairman and Permanent Secretary of the State Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM from the incident stressing that they were not pre-informed of the visits to schools by the Evangelist Kolenda’s team.

 “Though, both the Chairman and the Permanent Secretary of TESCOM are Christians but the truth is that they were not responsible for the incident. They are innocent regarding the matter”.

He confirmed the receipt of the letter by the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria on the development explaining that he has had an interaction with the executives of the body on the situation.

The commissioner noted that in line with the open-door policy of Engineer Seyi Makinde’s administration, his office is always open urging people to channel their complaints directly to him rather than going on social media. 

Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun explained that Governor Makinde would continue to be fair to all religions noting that out of the 17 new commissioners, 9 are Muslims while 8 are Christians. 

He called for continuous prayers for the success of Governor Makinde in line “with Prophet Muhammad’s instructions that we should pray for our leaders”.

Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Kunle Sanni explained that causes being fought for were always for the generality of the Muslims and not for any selfish interest.

“We are not asking for any selfish things. None of my children is working with Oyo State Government to say that that is whom we are fighting for but for the generality of the Muslims. A Muslim who wakes up and does not wish for the progress of his fellow Muslims is not worthy of calling a Muslim”.

He said the Muslim Community is apolitical but what has always been its business is fairness and equality to all religions by the state government. 

“We are not APC. What is the difference between APC and PDP? Are they not the same? Our interest is what is due for the Muslims, give it to us and do the same to the Christians but there must not be injustice at all”.

The Chairman on the occasion, Professor Rashid Aderinoye enjoined NACOMYO and other Islamic organisations not to be far from their representatives in government stressing that their regular interaction would resolve many agitations.

In a lecture by Imam Habeebulahi Buhari, the Islamic cleric enjoined the Muslim political office holders to ensure the fear of Allah in all their dealings while working in the cause of Allah should also be paramount in their undertakings. 

Earlier, the coordinator, NACOMYO, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi said it has become the tradition of the chapter to organize a prayer reception for Muslim political appointees and other personalities in order to team up to advance the cause of Islam.

He emphasized that no individual could buy NACOMYO as the organisation stands for justice and fair treatment adding that as long as the government played its part, there would not be cause for any clash.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, Chief Bayo Lawal was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Bashir Olanrewaju while the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Alhaja Kafilah Omolabake Olayiwola also has a representative at the reception. 

Other political functionaries in attendance are Chairman, Oyo State Civil Service Commission, Alhaji Kamorudeen Aderibigbe, Chairman, Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Yusuf Shuaib Oladejo and representative of the Chairman, Association of Local Government Employee of Nigeria, ALGON, Oyo State Chapter. Hon. Sanda Sikiru Oyedele.

The new Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Barrister Kazeem Gbadamosi and the new National Executives of the Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria, FOMWAN led by the Amirah, Alhaja Rafiah Sanni participated in the programme.

Ridwan Fasasi

Alhaja Alimot Akinola, Wife of Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Akinola
Lifestyle

MMPN Condoles Aare Musulumi over Death of Wife

By Web News 940

Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, has condoled the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Daud Akinola, over the passage of one of his wives, Alhaja Alimat Akinola.

This is contained in a condolence message in Ibadan by Chairman, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi. 

Alhaji Fasasi described the death of Alhaja Akinola as shocking but enjoined Aare Musulumi to count the development as the wish of Allah as every soul shall taste death.

He enjoined Alhaji Akinola to also take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled and impactful life as her generosity had great effects on a lot of households.

Alhaji Fasasi prayed to Allah to give the husband, children relatives and Muslim Ummah the fortitude to bear the demise of Alhaja Akinola, forgive her shortcomings and reward her with Al-Jannah Firdaos. 

Alhaja Alimat Akinola died during an illness at the age of 47.

Ridwan Fasasi

Lifestyle

MMPN Decries Attack On Amuludun FM

By Web News 919

The Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, has condemned in a strong terms the attack by some hoodlums on Radio Nigeria’s Amuludun FM, Moniya, Ibadan. 

This is contained in a statement issued in Ibadan by MMPN Chairman, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi. 

Alhaji Fasasi noted that though preliminary investigations indicated that the attack was not direct to the media organisation, extension of such criminal acts to the station, which has been on the part of the people is satanic and could dampen the morale of the staff.

He called on the police to ensure that the hoodlums are brought to book stressing that arresting them would send warning signals to other criminal elements. 

Alhaji Fasasi enjoined the management of Radio Nigeria to strengthen its security network to prevent future occurrences to enhance safety of lives and property in its FM stations across the state and beyond. 

He equally urged Oyo State government to continue to do more to address the security challenges facing the people and come to the help of the station at this trying period.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

PFN Oyo Chapter Organises Prayers For Nigeria

By Web News 1664

The Pentecostal Fellowship of of Nigeria, PFN, Oyo State chapter has organized prayers for the peace and unity of the Nation.

 The interdenominational prayer movement for national repentance, revival and recovery was held at Maranathan Chapel, Zion Cathedral, Iwo-Road Ibadan.

 Speaking with Radio Nigeria, the National President PFN. Prophet Isa EL BuBa enjoined  Christians to be proactive, watchful and prayerful over present situation in the country.

In a sermon, Regional Pastor, Redeemed Christian Church of God,  RCCG, Oyo State, Charles Obasa said the collective responsibility of all Christians was to pray for the peace and security of the country. 

Vice President, PFN, Oyo State Chapter,  Pastor Ayoola Olubusuyi led the congregation in prayer of mercy for the nation. 

Other activities included thanksgiving and songs of praise unto God. 

Funmi Obagbayegun

Religion

Let’s support Governor Makinde to succeed – Shaikh Busairi

By Web News 774

The Secretary-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, Oyo State chapter, Shaikh Salaudeen Busairi, has urged religious leaders in the state not to destroy the existing peace in the state because of their selfish gains.

He stated this during a courtesy visit paid by the Council to the Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Islamic Affairs, Imam Abdul Rasheed Abdul-Azeez in Ibadan.

Shaikh Busairi said that Governor Makinde has never been found wanting in maintaining good relationship with Muslims, even though he is a Christian, admonishing religious leaders not to allow religious sentiment to separate them.

He added that there should be mutual cooperation among all religions in the state and appealed to some elders who he said always hide under the canopy of religion to fan embers of discord among Muslims to have a re-think.

Shaikh Busairi commended Governor Makinde for declaring Public Holiday on, Hijirah, an Islamic calendar year and for celebrating the Maolud Nabiy as governor of the state.

In a remark, the Special Assistant to Governor Makinde on Islamic Affairs, Imam Abdulrasheed Abdul-Azeez solicited the support of all religious leaders to join hands in moving the state forward.

Iyabo Adebisi

Lifestyle

FRCN’s Tony-Esan Bags NAWOJ Award

By Web News 785

Immediate past Vice President B-Zone of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalist, NAWOJ, Mrs Morenike Tony-Esan have been conferred an award for her contributions on gender-based issues and a supportive leader to women journalist in Oyo State.

The award presentation was part of activities marking the Press Week of NAWOJ for the year 2020.

The chairperson NAWOJ, Oyo State Chapter, Mrs Jadesola Ajibola said Mrs Tony-Esan’s contribution to the development of NAWOJ Oyo State cannot be quantified.

Receiving the award on her behalf, principal, Oba Akinbiyi School Two, Mrs Oluwatoyin Ayodele thanked the organizers for deeming it fit to appreciate her efforts to the development of NAWOJ.

Lilian Ibomor

Economy

We have paid 2.9 billion naira to retirees in the past 16 months – Oyo Govt

By Web News 828

Oyo State Government has presented one hundred and eighty million naira gratuity cheques to ninety four retired civil servants.

Those who benefitted were retired teachers, non-teaching staff, and Judicial Service Commission staff whose papers have been completed as of June 2013.

Presenting gratuity cheques to the 94 retired civil servants in Ibadan, the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Professor Dahud Sangodoyin explained that the state government has paid the sum of 2.9 billion naira for about 1900 retirees within 16 months.

Professor Sangodoyin explained that the state has constituted a committee to fashion out modalities for the state government to clear backlog of gratuities owed to retired civil servants whose papers have been completed and submitted.

Speaking on behalf of the 94 retired civil servants, the Assistant Secretary, Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Oyo State Chapter, Mr Banji Koleosho appreciated the government kind gesture saying the disbursement of gratuity to retired workers was timely.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Eidul-Kabir: Oyo MMPN Chairman Charges Muslims in on Peaceful Co-existence

By Web News 890

As Muslims worldwide celebrate Eidul-Kabir, the privileged ones have been enjoined to extend their financial gesture to others who are struggling to survive the economic challenges caused by Covid-19 pandemic. 

This is contained in a statement in Ibadan by Chairman, Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi.

Alhaji Fasasi said in the spirit of the celebration, Muslims should give preference to the assistance of those who have lost their jobs and those whose their sources of income have also been hampered by the coronavirus pandemic as such would bring smiles to their families.

He emphasized that this is not the time to keep meat at home even after it has been divided into three based on Shariah as a lot of those who usually slaughter animals are now in need due to the situation caused by the virus.

Alhaji Fasasi urged the faithful to celebrate the Eid with moderation and comply with all measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

He noted that Muslims are still free to observe their 2 Rakaat prayer at home with their families if there are no provision for Covid-19 protocols like running water with soap, physical distancing and the use of facemasks at Eid grounds.

Alhaji Fasasi admonished Muslims to imbibe the spirit of obedience, love, kindness and equality that Eidul-Kabir celebration stands for in their day-to-day activities. 

He equally noted that faithfulness and the fear of Allah displayed by Prophet Ibrahim and his son, Ismail played prominent roles in the history of the celebration and urged Muslims to emulate the virtues.

The MMPN Chairman enjoined Muslims to ensure peaceful co-existence with adherents of other religions as every man has a link to Prophet Adam and they should see others as their brothers and sisters. 

He emphasized that peaceful co-existence is part of Islamic ethics as Prophet Muhammad as a leader in Medinah did not only live peacefully with others but was just to them irrespective of different tribal and religious affiliations. 

Ridwan Fasasi

Health

Facemasks: Oyo to Begin Arrests over Non-Compliance

By Web News 1114

Residents of Oyo State who refuse to comply with the COVID-19 protocol of compulsory use of face mask in public places will be arrested and prosecuted from next month.

A coordinator of enforcement from the Oyo State COVID-19 Emergency Operation Centre and Risk Communication Pillar, Mrs Kunmi Oladipo said this during an enforcement mission to Bodija Market in Ibadan.

Mrs Oladipo lamented that the state had recorded low level of compliance on the wearing of face mask in public places, particularly markets.

She emphasized the importance of the directives on Covid-19 protocol as the battle against coronavirus was still ongoing. 

Mrs Oladipo explained that the enforcement team would within one month sensitize, persuade and ensure compliance, but if there was no appreciable improvement, the team would embark on arrest and prosecution. 

Similarly, President of Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Tijani Adegoke who was on the enforcement team, said the state government would not relent in its effort at ensuring compliance to COVID-19 directives in public places.

Mr Tijani said the enforcement team had started restraining people without facemask from gaining access into the markets. 

Some of the traders while lauding government’s efforts in tackling Covid-19, promised to obey the directives on wearing of facemask as well as provision of hand washing facilities at various points in the market.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Oyo PFN Shares Palliatives to Members

By Web News 1035

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, Oyo State Chapter, shared palliatives with her pastor members all over the state on Thursday 23rd April, 2020.

The commodities comprising of Rice, Beans and other edibles were channelled through the Provincial Chairmen to their respective local governments for onward distribution to pastors during this National lockdown which came about as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The chairman, PFN, Oyo State, Reverend Samson Ajetomobi said it was a gesture conceived through the leading of God and the leadership of PFN is very grateful to those that made it happen.

Reverend Ajetomobi encouraged other leaders to find a way of helping and sharing with their other pastors at all levels as God helps them.

It would be recalled that the Oyo State PFN had earlier donated Personal Protective Equipment, PPE and N95 respirators to the Oyo State Task Force on Covid-19 as her contribution to stem the spread of Coronavirus disease in the state.

Niyi Dahunsi

Lifestyle

Oyo PFN Donates PPE to Covid-19 Task force

By Web News 1270

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Oyo State Chapter, has donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers in the state to the Oyo COVID-19 Task Force, in appreciation of the tireless efforts being exerted to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.

The PFN led by its state chairman, Reverend Samson Ajetomobi, presented the Personal Protective Equipment comprising of N95 respirators and TYVEK suits to the task force at the parking lot of the Oyo State Ministry of Health.

Oyo PFN Chairman, Reverend Samson Ajetomobi (l) with Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Health, Dr. A.M Ayoola (r), during the presentation

Speaking during the presentation, Reverend Ajetomobi said while the PFN prays that God in his mercies will deliver the state and the nation from the pandemic, it is also important that every individual play their part in putting an end to the pandemic.

He lauded the task force for its efforts to ensure that the virus is curtailed in the state, he urged the people to abide by the standard regulations put in place to ensure the COVID-19 wave blows over quickly, adding that the earlier everyone plays a part, the faster the disease will be defeated.

Reverend Ajetomobi further urged well-meaning people and organisations in the state to do what they can to assist the task force in its activities and also spread the love at this period so that every member of the society can have an easier time while the COVID-19 battle lasts.

“It is our belief that organisations and individuals need to collaborate with the government for this battle to be quickly won. We need to help with our substance and our obedience so that the work of the task force will be easier. This is the time to come together and work towards combating this scourge; we need to be our brother’s keeper at this time and show love for mankind.

Most importantly, while we pray, let us also follow laid down guidelines of hygiene and maintain social distancing. Do not go wherever is not necessary at this period, it is a sacrifice we all have to make to save our world,” Rev. Ajetomobi stated, reiterating that the PFN will continue to support the government in the fight against the pandemic and in the service to humanity.

While receiving the items on behalf of the government, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr A. M Ayoola, commended the PFN for the donation which he promised would be used judiciously in the fight against coronavirus and in service to humanity. Dr Ayoola reiterated government’s determination to ensure that the pandemic is brought to its knees before it ravages the state.

Niyi Dahunsi

Lifestyle

Followers’ Unreasonable Requests, Main Cause of Mismanagement – Prof. Olorunnisola

By Web News 988

Unaffordable requests from political office holders have been identified as a major cause of mismanagement of the nation’s resources.

Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Management, NIM, Professor Ayo Olorunisola stated this at the fifth edition of the interactive workshop of the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter.

At the program called “My Profession”, Professor Olorunnisola noted that the nation’s economy was not being properly managed because political office holders were trying to meet up with the demands of their followers which they cannot naturally fulfil.

He called on Nigerians to stop putting their personal demands on political office holders, and allow them to concentrate on governance.

Speaking on the legal profession, Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Ibadan Branch, Dr. Oluwole Akintayo called for discipline among members to maintain the integrity of the profession.

The Vice-Chairman, Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Mr. Kola Lawal, said the workshop was organized for professionals from various fields to interact and to enlighten secondary school students how they can choose their careers.

The workshop was attended by students from various secondary schools in Ibadan.

Sunday Ogunyemi

Lifestyle

Our Administration Will Be Fair to All Religions – Engr. Olaniyan

By Web News 896

Oyo State government will declare public holiday to mark Hijrah, the new Islamic year provided the day falls on week days.

Deputy Governor, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan who stated this in Ibadan at the 1441 Hijrah Grand Rally organised by National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations, NACOMYO, Oyo State Chapter, explained that this year’s Hijrah holiday was not declared because it fell on a weekend.

Engineer Olaniyan noted that the present administration in the state would be fair to all religions and advocated unity among the Muslim Community.

In a lecture, an Islamic scholar, Imam Tirimidhi Ishola identified injustice and tribal sentiments by Nigerian leaders as some of the factors that aided insecurity.

Earlier, Coordinator, NACOMYO, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi who lauded the state government for prompt payment of salary of workers, however decried lopsidedness in the appointment of commissioners which did not favour Muslims.

The programme also featured presentation of award to prominent personalities which included a philantropist from Oyo town, Alhaji Ibrahim Ayeriyina who received the award of Distinguished Muslim Ambassador.

Highlights of the Hijrah Rally included March past and displays by school children as well as Islamic organisations.

Ridwan Fasasi