News

Stakeholders Seek Political Backing Against Gender Based Violence

By Web News 181

By Seyifunmi Olarinde

The alarming rate of Sexual and Gender Based Violence, SGBV, among girls and women in Nigeria is becoming worrisome, calling for urgent advocacy for prevention and reduction.

‎At a programe organized by the Nigeria’s Governor’s Spouses Forum and the office of the wife of Oyo state governor, Chief Tamunominini Makinde, stakeholders highlighted ignorance, stigmatization and culture of silence as hindrances to total eradication of SGBV.

‎One of them, The Eleruwa of Eruwa ,Oba Samuel Adegbola described the increasing rate of SGBV in the grassroots level as disheartening.

‎Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun and Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi called  for a society where unity of purpose would end social vices.

‎She identified rape,emotional violence,child marriage as some forms of gender based violence, noting that abuses usually lead to incurable and lifelong diseases and at times death.

‎Former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion ,Mrs Christiana Abioye wants women to be empowered , calling on the victims to always speak out.

‎The Oyo state chairman, Rapid Response Team on gender based violence ,Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mr Martins Williams, said the team worked round the clock in responding promptly to issues of sexual and gender based violence.

‎In her remark, Chief Tamunominini Makinde, called on traditional rulers and local government chairmen wives to reach out to the people in their domains by enlightening them on the implications of being molested and the advantages of speaking out when abused.

Meanwhile,‎ Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has given assurance that his administration would provide political leadership, budgetary support, and executive backing for laws aimed at preventing GBV.

‎Governor Makinde gave the assurance while hosting representatives of Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum in partnership with an NGO, led by his wife, Mrs. Tamunomini Makinde on advocacy visit.

‎Governor Makinde also promised that his administration would work with the state House of Assembly to ensure adequate budgetary allocation for GBV prevention and response mechanisms. 

‎Earlier, wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunomini Makinde, had called for commitment to preventing gender-based violence in the state. 

‎Mrs. Makinde emphasized that GBV was not only a social problem but also a development challenge, governance issue, and silent economic drain. 

‎The Governor’s wife sought support in three key areas including political leadership that prioritizes GBV prevention, sustained budgetary allocation for prevention and response mechanisms, and executive backing for the implementation of existing laws, particularly the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and the Child’s Rights Law.

‎Mrs Makinde who reiterated that  mother’s and care givers should be attentive and sensitive to the languages of their children, called on elders to always speak openly against SGBV, speak up for and protect survivors.

‎The event featured poetry rendition and playlet on sexual and gender based violence.

‎

Economy

Oyo Govt. Fulfills Promise, Clears Non-statutory Deductions Arrears

By Web News 623

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Oyo State Government has cleared all the non-statutory deductions of civil servants in the state.

This is in fulfillment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s promise that their deduction arrears will be paid along with their August salaries.

In a release issued from the Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation and signed by the ministry’s commissioner, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the pledge by Governor Seyi Makinde in a state broadcast in the wake of the week-long protest by the state NLC, the government released over 1.3 billion naira as deductions and salaries for June, July, and August. 

With this development, workers who choose to continue making cooperative contributions will have to work with their unions as the state government will no longer be making any deductions from the source.

The commissioner recalled that to date, many states have not complied with the minimum wage and still owe civil servants many months’ backlog of statutory deductions while Oyo State had complied with minimum wage payment three years ago and has now cleared its deductions. 

The commissioner said Governor Seyi Makinde enjoys the support of the over 71,000 Oyo State civil servants because of his genuine love for their welfare.

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Health

Govt. Seals 5 Private Health Care Facilities 

By Web News 482

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Oyo State Government has sealed five private health facilities in Ibadan, as part of measures towards protecting the health and well-being of residents. 

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, made available to newsmen on Thursday. 

The healthcare facilities were sealed for non-compliance with regulatory standards.

The facilities were also found guilty of employing unqualified and unlicensed doctors, commonly referred to as quack doctors.

Speaking during an inspection recently at Olodo and Moniya axis of Ibadan, the Director for Secondary health care and training, Dr. Wale Falana stated that the action became necessary after an extensive monitoring and evaluation of hospital facilities was carried out within the state. 

“The inspection revealed alarming evidence of malpractice, misdiagnoses, and inappropriate treatments being administered to unsuspected patients,” he said.

According to him, The five healthcare facilities sealed were found to be lacking in terms of equipment, personnel, and compliance with standard medical regulations.’

‘Also, some hospitals were staffed with unqualified personnel who were practicing medicine without the required qualifications and license.’

 Dr. Falana further expressed deep concern and warned hospitals not to compromise on the quality of healthcare offered to patients, stressing that the facilities will remain closed until they meet the requirements and standards set by the regulatory bodies.

“This administration underscores its commitment to ensuring that health care services in the Oyo State adhere to the highest standards of quality and professionalism” 

“The government of the day, distinguished health as one of the cardinal programs, consequently, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi  Makinde takes the health of the people as essential, which is the reason behind the omitting free health mission held quarterly  throughout the state.” 

“We will not tolerate any compromise in medical standards that could put lives at risk. Our action in closing these hospitals demonstrates our commitment to maintaining quality healthcare delivery within our state.” 

Dr Falana added further that the state government has urged citizens to be more cautious when seeking medical attention and reminded them to verify the qualifications and licenses of healthcare providers they visit for treatment, encouraging citizens to report any suspected cases of quack doctors or substandard medical practices to the Ministry of Health. 

“This will enable the government to take swift action and ensure that the healthcare system in Oyo State remains trustworthy, reliable, and patient-centric.

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Health

Adeoyo, Other Hospitals Billed for Upgrade

By Web News 507

Oyo State government has signed a twin memorandum of understanding, MOU, with the French government.

The twin memorandum of understanding was signed between the Oyo State government and French Authorities, at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s office, Secretariat, Ibadan.

The MOU is to improve Healthcare services and reaffirm a common desire to promote the French language in the educational system in the state. 

Speaking at the signing-in event, Governor Seyi Makinde, who explained that aside from English, French is also an international language, maintained it was not out of place to promote the language in the state.

According to Governor Makinde, the relationship would boost commerce and labour growth development, while the concessionaire loan would be used for the upgrading of Adeoyo General Hospital and all the general hospitals across the geopolitical zones of the state. 

Earlier, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs Emmanuelle Blatmann, who revealed that the concessionaire loan was the first in three decades ago from the French government to Nigeria, added that the development would help in the provision of quality healthcare services, and qualitative education and enhanced globalization. 

Earlier, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Oyo state, Professor Oyelowo Oyewo, said the concessionaire loan of 55 million Euros acquired from the French government for the healthcare initiative, would be paid back in 40 years with an interest rate of 0.0009 Percentage. 

Iyabo Adebisi

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Judiciary

Justice Munta Abimbola Drops the Gavel

By Web News 838

Oyo State Government has affirmed its commitment to the Welfare of the judiciary along with the provision of facilities. 

Governor Seyi Makinde gave the assurance at the valedictory court session for the  Chief Judge of the state, Munta Abimbola held at Oyo State High Court 1

Governor Makinde said his administration would spare nothing in ensuring ease of dispensation of justice. 

 Speaking, Justice Abimbola, described his years on the bench as quite worthwhile, lauding the working relationship between the executive arm and judiciary in the state. 

 Justice Munta Abimbola appreciated God for the privileged to be appointed as chief justice of Oyo state

In their remarks, the chairmen of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ibadan,  Mrs Folasade Aladeniyi,  Ogbomosho, Mr Segun Oyewo, and Saki, Mr Adeboye Adefulu commended  Justice Abimbola’s brilliance, courage and friendly disposition on the bench. 

The NBA chairmen described Justice Abimbola as an epitome of jurisprudential with an irrepressible voice in the temple of justice 

Justice Munta Abimbola was sworn in as a Judge of the High Court in 1997, as Acting Chief Judge on 16  August 2014,  and was sworn in as the Chief Judge of Oyo State on the 12th January 2015.

He also serve as a member and chairman of several election petition Tribunals before he retired.

Funmilola Obagbayegun

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Housing

Oyo Begins Verification of Property

By Web News 788

Oyo State Government has begun a Data Verification Exercise of the owners of properties on the land acquired for the Nigerian Air-force Base in Ajia,  Ibadan.

The State Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, disclosed this while addressing the property owners at the project site in Ajia.

He assured that the government will compensate all the rightful owners of the property after carrying out necessary procedures.

He explained that the ministry has concluded work on the amount to be given to the victims as compensation. 

The commissioner maintained that the payment will be in batches, adding that all property owners are to undergo a data verification exercise to ensure the payment goes to the right person.

He sought the support and cooperation of property owners and residents of the town in the ongoing property owners’ data verification exercise in Ajia. 

Mr Olayiwola, however, called for the compilation and submission of names of property owners excluded during the initial land enumeration to the ministry for necessary action.

“I commend you for your patience, understanding and cooperation. Some people were saying that the government will not compensate you, it is a rumour”.

“The governor has asked us to look into your issue and give him our report.”

“Governor Makinde loves you and he will put smiles on your faces soon.”

“Our staffers will be in Ajia with you for three days for data verification, this is to avert false claims.”

“Compensation will be in phases, I assure you that the government will compensate everyone.”

Speaking on behalf of the victims, Mr Adelokun Olalekan, appealed to the government to adopt a master plan enumeration list for data verification exercise and payment to prevent unforeseen circumstances.

Among those who visited the acquired land was the Personal Assistant to the Governor, Alhaji Akeem Azeez, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Mofoluke Adebiyi and the Directors.

Nafiu Busari

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Agriculture

Food Day: Oyo Celebrates Farmers’ Resilience Despite Impediments

By Web News 731

Oyo State Government has celebrated farmers in the state on the commemoration of World Food Day, noting that farmers have shown resilience in the face of unfriendly weather and national security concerns.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Honourable Adeniyi Olabode Adebisi, while speaking on behalf of the state government, assured residents of food sufficiency, irrespective of climatic factors which affect farm production.

Adebisi gave the assurance in commemoration of the 2022 World Food Day themed “Leave No One Behind”, in a statement made available to

newsmen in Ibadan on Sunday, indicating the day as one of the most celebrated days by the United Nations which is saddled with world affairs.

He added in the statement that food, clothing and shelter were the basic necessities of life and if food is excluded might lead to famine and chaos in any society.

He however expatiated that due to the availability of large arable land mass in the state, the administration, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde has embarked upon expansion of the economy through agribusiness, security, health; and education, urging farmers to continue to adopt the State Government’s approach to agriculture for sustenance and productivity.

According to him, “the Nigerian economy has worsened since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 which was an abnormal year due to the lockdown imposed for safety, but nevertheless, the State Government under the able leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde has been working tirelessly to stabilize all sectors.

“The period posed a great challenge to all public officers who had to adjust their live styles to avoid famine which is the overall effect of unavailability of food, today Oyo State has shown other States good examples of how to survive global economic hardship by using agriculture as a succour and this is reflected in the theme of this year’s World Food Day as no one has been left behind in the journey to navigate through global economic hardship to prosperity in our State.”

“We are using this period to appreciate our farmers for their resilience in the face of the aforementioned crisis as their contributions towards surviving the trial period and coming out to be one of the best States with the best revenue generation cannot be undervalued,” he mentioned.

The Commissioner also noted that training had been held for farmers who in turn enlightened others about the need to improve productivity by applying necessary inputs including fertilizers to their farms to yield a high volume of production.

Globally, millions of people celebrate World Food Day by organizing fora on sensitization on eating a balanced diet, especially in Nigeria where inflation and high cost of food are causing hunger and malnutrition, and the Northern area of the country where an insurgency has affected free conduct of economic activities like farming and trading.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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News

Independence Day: Oyo Unveils Lined-up Activities

By Web News 832

In commemoration of this year’s Independence Day celebration, the Oyo state government has unveiled the lined-up activities earmarked to celebrate the day, with the theme tagged ‘Strength in Unity.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Asiwaju ‘Seun Fakorede, made this disclosure in a statement made available to newsmen, in Ibadan.

According to him, the 62nd Independence Day anniversary will commence with the special thanksgiving service at the Cathedral of St Peters Aremo, Ibadan, on Sunday 25th September 2002 by 9.00 am, urging the Christian faithful among the political office holders, Civil /public servants to grace the significant event.

While stating that a special plenary session of the Youth Parliament will hold at Oyo State House of Assembly on Monday 26th September 2022, He added that quiz and essay competitions organized for the Primary and Secondary School students will take place in the Conference room of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology on Tuesday 27th September 2022.  

The statement equally maintained that Tug of War involving military and paramilitary operatives in the state will take place at the car park of the office of the Governor, Secretariat Ibadan, with a cultural game known as ‘ayò olópón’.

He explained that the independence walk, which is expected to kick off at the Government House Arcade on Thursday, September 27 2022, would involve the participation of political office holders, top government functionaries, OYRTMA personnel, Man-O-War, Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC and Paramilitary officers in the state. 

Similarly, a special Jumat service will hold at the Government House, Mosque, Agodi Ibadan at 1.00 pm on Friday 30th September 2022, and Muslim faithful have been urged to converge on the mosque to pray for Nigeria. 

The grand finale of the Independence Day celebration will take place at Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan on Saturday 1st October 2022 at 8.00 am. 

The highlights of the programme will include a March past by the primary school students, Voluntary Organizations, Cyclists and Artisans.

Similarly, the Cultural Display by the Oyo State Cultural Troupe and the Cultural Troupe of Bishop Philips Academy, Ibadan will entertain the guests at the event.

The Commissioner assured pupils that prizes will be distributed to the schools that excel and have outstanding performances in the various competitions organized to mark the annual national anniversary. 

He, however, appealed to the parents and guardians to release their children/wards to participate actively in the celebration, stressing that the State government will provide adequate security to guarantee the safety of lives and properties throughout the period of celebration.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Environment

Oyo Govt Seals Shops, Buildings over Unhygienic Practices

By Web News 627

Oyo State Government, on Saturday, sealed off some houses and shops within the Academy Market, Ibadan over unhygienic practices.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Abiodun Oni said residents and owners of the shop violated environmental laws and failed to comply with the laid down hygienic practices.

​Speaking through the Special Adviser on Environment, Engineer Ademola Aderinto, the commissioner said the buildings were sealed off during the ongoing sensitisation and enforcement campaign of the Oyo State government to commemorate this year’s World Clean-up Day.

​He said the exercise was done to ensure total compliance with environmental hygiene and prevent the possible outbreak of any disease, pointing out that Environmental Health Officers had earlier visited the affected buildings and told the owners to do the needful but they failed to do so.

  • One of the sealed buildings
  • Waste thrown on the roof of one the sealed buildings

​The commissioner, who said the affected buildings are responsible for heaps of waste dumped in the market and along the main roads, added that they do not have adequate waste bins for the waste being generated in their compounds.

Also, as part of activities marking this year’s World Clean-up Day, the Oyo State Government and Mottainai Recycling Ltd, recovered Five-thousand, One-hundred and seventy (5, 170) kilograms of plastic wastes in the clean-up activities carried out in the Academy Community market in Ibadan.

​The team also recovered One Thousand, One Hundred (1,100) kilograms of cartons from the market.

​According to Mr Aderinto, the exercise, which was carried out in conjunction with Waste Management Authority in the State and Mottainai Recycling Ltd, was also used to sensitize and educate market women on how a waste-free environment can foster better customer relations and increase sales.

​He also appealed to residents to key into the Oyo State Government’s environmental blueprint.

​“Marketplaces are by nature unkempt with practices that are harmful to the ecosystem, but Oyo State Government believes that with continuous sensitisation and enforcement, we can make the traders understand the importance of a neat location for business”, Aderinto said.

​Speaking on the campaign, Managing Director, Mottainai Recycling Ltd, Mr Adey Adewuyi explained that the initiative was borne out of the need to ensure Oyo State is clean.

​Mr Adewuyi who spoke through the Chief Sustainability Officer, Mottainai Recycling Ltd, Ms Deborah Fadeyi said, “We are commemorating the World Clean-up Day in a very unconventional way, with the market people.” “We are here to show them how waste can be turned into wealth”.

​​Also speaking on the campaign, the Chief Operating Officer, Mottainai Recycling Ltd, Ms Oluwaseun Fashukanmi explained that besides drawing the attention of the public to the immense financial opportunities of waste recycling, the public also needs to be aware of the threats of waste and pollution to human life and the survival of the ecosystem.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Lifestyle

We shall find lasting solutions to boundary disputes – Oyo Acting Gov.

By Web News 736

Oyo State Government wants an accelerated process to finding a lasting solution that will enable the state to resolve all pending boundary-related issues with states with which it shares borders.

The Acting Governor of the state, Chief Bayo Lawal stated this while hosting the Technical and Sub-technical Committee on Boundary Dispute Resolutions in Oyo State.

The Acting Governor, who is the Chairman of the Technical Committee acknowledged that there were lingering boundary disputes affecting both inter-state (Oyo and other neighbouring states) and intra-state (within Oyo State) 

He assured that Oyo State would expedite action to resolve all pending disputes.

While noting that boundary dispute was not a challenge that was peculiar to Oyo State but a global challenge, Chief Lawal said nations and states have to find ways to proffer resolve.

He explained that one of the major challenges faced by the state government and other stakeholders in resolving intra-state boundary disputes was the serious resistance by some traditional chiefs, baales, and traditional rulers.

The acting Governor however directed the Surveyor-General of the state to furnish the Technical Committee with a reliable and authenticated map that would guide it in moving forward.

The Chairman of the Sub-Technical Committee, who is the Surveyor-General of Oyo State, Surveyor Alaba Abiodun led his team to present its report to the Technical Committee at the Office of the Governor.

Speaking on Oyo State inter-state boundary dispute with other neighbouring states, Chief Lawal listed some states with which Oyo shares borders and had unresolved boundary disputes including Kwara and Ogun and Osun states.

“We’ve had and we still have international boundary disputes, we have inter boundary disputes and we have inter-states boundary disputes. I’m aware of all these things by virtue of my knowledge during my active days as a legal practitioner.

“For instance, I’m aware that we have a dispute with Osun State, we have a dispute with Ogun State and we have a dispute with Kwara State.

“And along the belt of Nigeria and republic of Benin, there is a potential dispute because of rival claims between the citizens of Benin republic and Nigeria.” the Acting Governor noted.

The Technical Committee, however, directed all non-members of the committee which includes the Sub Technical Committee and the press to excuse the meeting before the Ag. Governor was locked in the room with the Technical Committee for more deliberations.

Members of the state Technical Committee on Boundary Disputes and Resolution include Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Lands and Urban Development, Attorney-general and Commissioner For Justice, Information, Culture and Tourism.

Others are the Nigerian Police, Nigerian Immigration Service, Office of the Surveyor-General, and Office of the Secretary to the state government.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Health

Bayo Lawal Inaugurates Immunisation Task Force

By Web News 670

In a bid to avert the negative consequences of unvaccinated innocent children and adults, the Oyo State Government has inaugurated the Immunization Task Force Committee towards strengthening the health and well-being of residents of the state.

The Acting Governor of the state, Alhaji Bayo Lawal, officially inaugurated the committee at the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) Yemetu, Ibadan, the state capital. 

The project is being supported by development partners, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Institute of Human Virology of Nigeria (IHVN) Breakthrough Action Nigeria (BA-N), and United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Alhaji Lawal, who is the chairman of the task-force committee, stated that the newly-inaugurated committee would engage with the public health institutions, traditional leaders, religious leaders, community influential, market men and women, national and international organisations, other relevant stakeholders and partners to sustain the development and implementation of key immunisation policies across the state. 

His words: “Immunisation has been widely acknowledged to be one of the best health interventions to curtail or eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases globally and this is why it is classified as one of the global human rights for both the young and the old. 

“Immunization record in Oyo State has indicated that some children are being denied of this golden opportunity, perhaps as a result of poor access, being poorly informed, myths and misconceptions, poverty and other sundry reasons. The case with COVID-19 vaccination has not been totally different from the observed hesitancy at the onset.

“These have led to the high number of the unimmunized eligible population and which we must all now collectively bring to the fold of well-protected individuals against all vaccine-preventable diseases so that with our collective efforts, we will have a healthy community. We will be able to attain herd immunity for the benefit of all.”

Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr. Bode Ladipo, noted that Oyo State had been rated second in Nigeria in terms of immunisation of children and adults against diseases that can be prevented with vaccines.

The Executive Secretary, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji; Chairman Primary Health Care Board, Dada Awoleye; and development partners spoke on the importance of setting up the Immunisation Taskforce Committee in the state.

 Nofiu Busari

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Economy

Oyo Unveils Plans to Boost Human Capital Development

By Web News 543

Oyo state government has hinted of plans to draw up a comprehensive work plan across three thematic areas that would improve the state indices on human capital development 

The Executive Assistant to the Governor and Focal Person, Reverend Idowu Ogedengbe disclosed this shortly after a technical workshop with senior career officers in the state service and consultant for the southwest zone on human capital development

The executive assistant enlisted health and nutrition, education, and employment generation among other focuses of the team, noting that as soon as a work plan had been generated, interventions would be rolled out leveraging on National Human Capital Development (NHDC) partners to improve the general wellbeing of the people in Oyo state 

He also indicated the challenge of funds and how the technical team intended to establish a budget that would aid its administration and ability to fulfill its mandate 

In a remark, consultant in charge of South West, Dr. Dayo Adeyanju explained that the National Human Capital Development (NHCD) was launched in 2018 by the National Economic Council as a result of the observed decline in human capital development rating in Nigeria.

Dr Adeyanju added that Oyo state would experience a better intervention as a result of the initiative 

The zonal consultant also stressed that the program aimed at addressing poverty and sustainable policy, increasing investment and improving human capital development indices across and conceive steps in accelerating human capital development

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

Oyo Govt. Charges Contractor to Expedite Work on Ajia Airport Road

By Web News 586

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has inspected ongoing works at the 21km Ajia-Airport Road with spur to Amuloko as well as the Olorunsogo-Amuloko-Akanran-Dagbolu Road, noting that the government is satisfied with the quality of works being done on the projects.
He, however, tasked the contractors to improve the pace of work, noting that the government had thought that some of the projects would be completed by the third anniversary of the administration.

A statement by the Special Assistant (Print Media) to the governor, Moses Alao, indicated that the governor, who inspected the Ajia-Airport Bridge, the Amuloko stretch of the road and the Dagbolu termination point of the 37-kilometre Beere-Olorunsogo-Akanran-Dagbolu road, said that quality control was key.

“In terms of quality, we are okay. But in terms of the pace, I think they can do better. In three or four months, I believe they should be done with it. The major hold-up on the Ajia-Airport Road was the bridge we visited. They already have concrete over it and are waiting for it to keel.
“The contractors gave us the end of May but we won’t allow them to rest.”
Residents of the state at the different sites of the projects hailed Governor Makinde, expressing gratitude to the government for the projects in their communities.

Iyabo Adebisi

Education

Home-Grown School Feeding: Oyo takes Delivery of Feeding Utensils

By Web News 887

In a bid to improve its National Home-Grown School Feeding programme, the Federal government has handed- over more than 62,000 feeding utensils to Oyo state.

Delivering the items comprising plates and spoon to the Oyo state government at the secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajia Sadiya Umar-Farouq explained that Nigeria has recorded over nine million pupils being fed by 100,000 cooks in the home grown school feeding programme.

Hajia Umar-Farouq who was represented by the Director of Social Development in the ministry of humanitarian affairs, Mr Taiwo Bashorun said the benefit of the programme among other things would address the issues of hunger, malnutrition and poverty.

The minister said an operational review on the initiative was underway to ensure that the programme succeed in its objectives and benefits such as women empowerment, supporting Girl-child education, creating employment and improving inter-governmental collaboration

While receiving the items on behalf of state government, Oyo state Programme manager of National Home Grown School Feeding Programme, Adejoke Adewunmi lauded the federal government for the items and promised judicious use of the utensils.

In an interview, the secretary of the Oyo State Home Grown food vendor and Public Relations Officer, Olorundare Omolola and Sarah Makinde appreciated the federal government noting that before now, the pupils were being served with different plates.

The over 62,000 feeding utensils have been distrubuted accoss the 33 local government in Oyo state. Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

We will flag-off Ogbomoso-Iseyin Road in 10 days – Makinde

By Web News 628

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has promised that his administration would flag-off the Ogbomoso-Iseyin Road in the next ten days.

The governor was speaking at the final burial ceremony of the 20th Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi held at the Aafin Ogbomoso, Oja-Igbo, Ogbomoso.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quotes Governor Makinde as praying for the repose of the soul of the late monarch as well as that of former Oyo State Governor, Adebayo Alao-Akala.

He said: “I greet everyone here. I have actually said many things when Baba joined his ancestors. Today, it is simply to identify with Ogbomosoland for them to know that I love them. Some maybe saying I did not come here as early as expected but, today, I am here and will be sleeping over.” 

“In about ten days, I will still come back here to flag-off Ogbomoso-Iseyin Road. Let me also use this opportunity to also appreciate you, my people, in Ogbomoso, and condole you on the death of our former governor, Chief Alao Akala.”

The final burial ceremony of the late Soun, had in attendance, the Minister for Youths and Sport, Mr Sunday Dare, former Military Administrator of Oyo State, Major General Oladayo Popoola, Secretary to the State Government, SSG), Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun, Chief of Staff, Mr Segun Ogunwuyi, Head of Service, Alhaja Ololade Agboola, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr AbdulMajeed Mogbonjubola, Commissioners, Special Advisers, Local Government Chairmen and host of others.

Iyabo Adebisi

Education

We are committed to fire prevention in public schools – Dr Adeniran

By Web News 699

The Oyo State Government has restated its commitment to collaborate with relevant agencies, to curb fire outbreaks in public schools.

The Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr Nureni Aderemi Adeniran said this during an assessment of a Grade ‘C’ Customary Court building in Omoyeni Memorial Primary School, Ode-Aje, Ibadan, gutted by fire on Tuesday.

Dr Adeniran reiterated the Board’s commitment to the protection of schools in the State, especially during the dry season.

Adeniran, who was accompanied by the board and management team of the agency, tasked head-teachers to ensure effective monitoring of classes and offices to guard against any illicit connection of electrical appliances and acts capable of causing the fire.

He charged them to be extra-vigilant in their environment and report any activity that may pose a threat to schools.

While sympathizing with the headship of the Customary Court, over the incident, Adeniran commended the school community for their contributions in putting the fire under control.

He also hinted that the board will ensure collaboration with Ibadan South-East Local Government, under which the customary court is, adding that the building ravaged in the inferno would be rehabilitated as soon as possible.

“We commend you for being proactive and your quick intervention, which prevented this fire outbreak from spreading to classes here”, Adeniran said.

“The board is so grateful there was no casualty and that this happened when pupils had left school. I enjoin you to ensure you monitor whatever these children are doing, and make sure all appliances are put off after school hours”, he appealed to school authorities.

The chairman also emphasized the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration to improving security in all schools, maintaining that all citizens must contribute to the safety of schools in the state.

Media Team, 

Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board

Health

Oyo Government Keeps Surveillance On Councils Over Lassa Fever Outbreak

By Web News 725

Oyo State government has called on residents of the state to remain calm over the reported cases of Lassa Fever in Iwajowa Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bode Ladipo, made this known in a statement issued by the ministry and made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

The statement read in part: “The attention of the Ministry was drawn to reported cases of deaths at Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State on Wednesday, 12th January, 2022. The deaths were said to have been associated with fever, gastrointestinal symptoms and some neck swelling.

“This warranted a high-level investigating team led by the Honourable Commissioner for Health to visit the LGA on Thursday, 13th January, 2022 to assess the situation and provide necessary support to abate any further transmission of the illness.

“The team comprised of senior officials of the Ministry, the State Primary Healthcare Board and the World Health Organization (WHO)

“An initial visit to the State General Hospital at Iwere lle revealed the fact that there was an increase in number of cases brought from the Gaa Agbaruru settlement with confirmation of two (2) deaths at the facility. The team was then led to Gaa Agbaruru, a Fulani settlement in Iwere ward of the LGA where victims of the illness came from.

“It was observed that there were cases with symptoms mentioned above but were recuperating. It was also confirmed that there was indeed high degree of contact between the inhabitants, rodents and bats. In addition, the challenge of having potable water was noted.

“Blood samples were taken from the recuperating individuals with sample of water also taken. These samples were sent to the National Reference Laboratory for Haemorrhagic Fever in Abuja for analysis and confirmation”.

Dr Ladipo noted that the state government was doing everything possible to check further spread of the virus.

He said, government had already set up surveillance system across Local governments in the state to abate further transmission of the virus.

According to the commissioner, the Ministry of Health has repositioned doses of antiviral agents for treatment of the reported cases, while personal protective devices have been provided for health workers at Iwere Ile and Iganna.

Dr Ladipo therefore, enjoined the general public to refer similar cases to the nearest government hospitals for free and quality care.

He advised them to also call the following numbers: 09058704101,08025245800 and 08073431342 for prompt medical attention.

Iyabo Adebisi

Culture

Oyo Govt., Iseyin Weavers Collaborate to Revive Aso-Ofi Festival

By Web News 1075

The Oyo State Government and Iseyin Weavers have collaborated to revive and further promote the Aso-Ofi festival in the state. 

This was disclosed in Iseyin during the grand-finale of the Aso-Ofi festival, witnessed by dignitaries in and outside Oyo State. 

Speaking at the event, the wife of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde said the festival would promote the cultural values and heritage of the state. 

She appealed to Iseyin weavers not to compromise the originality of the wool used in weaving Aso-Ofi, adding that it can never be duplicated. 

She also hinted that Aso-Ofi has grown to be one of Nigeria’s internationally-recognised fabrics, known for its rich cultural values. 

“I appeal to our weavers, put a mark on our heritage, it cannot be made elsewhere. If it is not made here, it is counterfeit”, she said. 

She added, “Ensure you protect our heritage, promote what we have and keep our culture for our generations unborn. Don’t sell out your trade’s secret. Do your best to protect our heritage”. 

The Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, said the present administration in Oyo State is committed to showcasing and harnessing the tourism and economic potentials embedded in the festival. 

He said that the Aso-Ofi festival, which was last celebrated in 2018, is set for revival and unhindered annual celebrations. 

Dr Olatunbosun said, with the Aso-Ofi fabrics and resolution by the State Government to promote it, there will be a revolution in the tourism sector of the state. 

He hinted that Oyo State Government is resolute to champion the exportation of Aso-Ofi fabrics in the state, adding that the cultural, tourism and creative industry have been identified as one of the major sectors to diversify the economy. 

The State Government’s Spokesman added that Oyo State Government is formulating policies that will aid the promotion of this sector, while actions are being taken to unlock the huge potentials of the sector. 

He said the state government has found it expedient to increase awareness about the annual festival due to its potentials. 

“We are confident that the Aso-Ofi festival is back to and the State Government in collaboration with major stakeholders will be working to revive the festival and promote Aso-Ofi beyond the shores of Nigeria.” 

“We are working hard to ensure that all potentials are harnessed. We are set to work with sponsors, exporters and promoters in order to make it as international as possible to attract, cultural enthusiasts and huge buyers,” he said. 

The highlight of the programme was the presentation of the “The Ambassador of Aso-Ofi of the year” award to Governor Seyi Makinde and some notable Iseyin indigenes. 

The two-day event featured a rally, competitions, fashion parades, presentations of awards and draws national and international attention.

E-signed: 

Wasiu Olatunbosun, Ph.D,

Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Yoruba

Ijoba Ipinle Oyo Sawari Awon Osise Ayederu Mokanlelogoji

By Web News 689

Igbimo to n mojuto yiye iwe owo wo ati eto atunto n’ileese ijoba nipinle oyo fun odun 2019/2020, ti da laba ki won yo awon osise ti won pe ni ayederu mokanlelogoji kuro lenu ‘se.

Igbimio naa tun fun awon osise miran ti won le ni aadorun niye, ti iwe akole ise won ko baramu, lanfani, lati momo kowe fi ise sile.

Iko alamojuto yi lo fie sun kana won osise to le ni egbeta niye, ti won si da laba lati yo won kuro, lori ate gbigba owo osu, a mo ti igbimo to n wa fun eto atunto, fese awon osise ayederu mokanlelogoji mule, awon mewa to ti papoda ati awon to fee woo igba ni won ni ko lo feyinti.

Ninu atejade eyi ti Oludamoran pataki si gomina lori oro iroyin, Ogbeni Taiwo Adisa, fi sita so pe abo iwadi ni won ti fi sowo ti won yo si je kawon osise to kan mo pato on ti ijoba fe, ki won se.

Iyabo Adebisi/Alolade Afonja

Economy

Oyo Govt. Staff Audit Uncovers 41 Ghost Workers

By Web News 721

…341 others with irregular records opt for voluntary retirement
…indicted officers to be deleted from the payroll

The Implementation Committee of the Oyo State 2019/2020 Civil/Public Servants Audit and Payroll Re-engineering/Validation Exercise has recommended the removal of 41 staff classified as “No Show” (ghost workers) by the consultants.

The consultants had indicted 602 officers and recommended them for removal from the payrolls but the Implementation Committee affirmed 41 ghost workers; cleared 40 others of any infraction; uncovered 10 deaths; 170 systematic retirements; and affirmed the option of voluntary retirement by 341 others with irregular records of service.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the Implementation Committee had examined the report submitted by the consultants and also interacted with the affected officers before finalising the implementation model.

Messers Sally Tilbot Consulting was, in 2019, engaged by the Oyo State Government to undertake employees and pensioners’ verification/validation and payroll re-engineering, tagged 2019/2020 staff audit.

Following series of reconciliations, the report of the consultants was received by the government on April 30, 2021, after which an Implementation Committee was put in place to fashion out the final implementation model.
The 13-member Implementation Committee, headed by Mr. D.O. Olatunde, Permanent Secretary, Civil Service Commission, affirmed that “forty-one (41) officers established to be “No Show” should be removed from government payrolls immediately.”

The committee recommended that an administrative investigation be undertaken by the government to determine where the salaries of the “No Show” officers had been going.

The statement added that of the 341 who indicated their decision of voluntary retirement to the Implementation Committee, 290 officers had turned in their voluntary retirement letters, while the 24 officers who failed to take advantage of the two-month window have now been retired by the concerned agencies of government.

The Implementation Committee had put together its report in May 2021.

Messrs Sally Tilbot Consultants had, earlier in its report submitted to the government, indicted 602 workers and advised that they be removed from the payrolls.

The Implementation Committee, however, recommended that the government should affirm the resolve of 341 officers who opted to retire voluntarily following the discovery of irregular records of service in their files.

The affected officers are to be “helped to port into the pension payroll not later than two months after their respective notices of retirement,” the report stated.

According to the statement, the administration of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde had, in a painstaking effort, set up a number of reconciliation meetings to review the report of Sally Tilbot Consultants, which undertook a forensic analysis of civil/public servants between 2019 and 2020.

Afterwards, the 13-member Implementation Committee, headed by Olatunde was further put in place to fine-tune the final processes of its implementation.

The Committee, according to its report submitted to the government, had, however, recommended that 170 officers, who were found to have “retired systematically” (retirement according to age or years of service) be removed from the list of 602 earlier recommended for sanction by Tilbot Consultants.

Ten (10) others who were found to have died were also removed from the list prepared by the Consultants, while another 40 officers were cleared and absolved of any offence.

The report read in part: “From the above, it is observed that from the 602 alleged officers, one hundred and seventy (170) had already retired systematically due to no particular influence of the screening exercise and ten (10) deceased.
“Consequently, the Committee agreed that out of the 602 officers involved in the report: Forty (40) officers should be absolved and allowed to remain on government payrolls; one hundred and seventy (170) officers who had retired systematically should be allowed on pension payrolls; and ten (10) deceased officers should be paid their due entitlements.

It also agreed that: “three hundred and forty-one (341) officers that opted for voluntary retirement should be allowed to do so; forty-one (41) officers established to be “No Show” should be removed from Government Payrolls immediately; while the list of affected officers from Tertiary Institutions should be forwarded to their respective Governing Councils for necessary action.”

Besides the Permanent Secretary, Civil Service Commission, who chaired the Committee, other members include the Special Adviser, Economic Matters to the Governor, Professor Musibau Babatunde; Special Adviser, Labour Matters, Comrade Bayo Titilola-Sodo; Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, Mr. Akin Funmilayo; Permanent Secretary, Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service, F.N Oladeinde; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mrs. A.A Fasina; Acting Solicitor-General of the State, Mrs. Folabimpe Segun-Olakojo; Executive Secretary, State Universal Basic Education (SUBEB), Mr. O.J Adeniyi; Representative of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade (Mrs.) K.F Aiyedun; Representative of Trade Union Congress (TUC) Comrade Kola Badmus; Secretary, Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Oyo State Chapter, Comrade Olusegun Abatan; Director, Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Goke Adenrele and the Deputy Director (EMR&P), Office of the Head of Service, Idowu Mashopa.

Taiwo Adisa
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde
July 21, 2021.

Health

Delta Variant: Oyo COVID-19 Task Force Warns Residents To Take Extra Precautions

By Web News 657

Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force has uncovered the Delta variant of the COVID-19 in the State.

The Incident Manager and coordinator of the Energency Operations Centre, Dr. Olabode Ladipo, who confirmed the development, said that the general public is notified of the need to take extra caution and consistently apply all adversories earlier released by the Task Force.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, on behalf of the Task Force, indicated that the Task Force “wishes to notify the general public of the isolation of the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus in the stat e.”

The statement read: “This strain has been associated with high transmission, increase severity of infection and outcomes.
“As such, this is to warn that the virus is still very much within the society.”

It warned residents of the state to continue to comply with all advisories aimed at curtailing the spread of COVID-19.

The statement also asked all in-bound travellers to always isolate for seven days and submit themselves for tests.

It further read: “The ‘Own Your Action’ (OYA) initiative of the State Government should be seriously considered by adhering to the guidelines of wearing nose and mouth masks in public gatherings, washing of hands with soap and water and use of hand sanitisers, among others.

“The Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force hereby appeals to the good people of Oyo State to comply with these and other advisories as they apply to individuals and organisations.

“It would be appreciated if all in-bound travelers from overseas maintain the mandatory seven-day isolation and subsequent testing before mingling with the populace.”

“In addition, residents are enjoined to seek medical care and avail the opportunity of free testing whenever there’s any feeling of unwellness.

“Vigilance on the parts of both the Government and the people will surely go a long way in stemming the transmission of this disease within the state.”

Signed
Taiwo Adisa
Chief Press Secretary to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde
July 11, 2021.

Culture

Celebrate Egugun Festival Peacefully – Oyo Government

By Web News 1611

In a bid to ensure a hitch-free Egungun festival, Oyo State government has read the riot act to those that are planning to disrupt the peace of the state to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

The Special Adviser to the governor on Security Matters, Mr Fatai Owoseni said this during a consultative meeting held with stakeholders at his office in Ibadan.

Mr Owoseni promised massive deployment of security personnel and non-state actors to raid hideouts of miscreants to ensure peace and tranquility during the Egungun festival.

In a remark, the Olubadan of Ibadan, represented by the Ekeefa Olubadan, High Chief Lekan Alabi at the meeting called for peace and orderliness during the outing of the Oloolu masquerade.

The Olubadan warned those planning to foment trouble to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

The event had in attendance the representative of Olubadan, Mogaji Oloolu, head of the Alagbaa, and the heads of all security agencies.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

We are ready to follow Supreme Court Ruling – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 668

The Oyo State government has stated that it was on the same page with the Justices of the Supreme Court in its May 7, 2021 ruling, which ordered the payment of salaries and allowances of the dissolved chairmen and councilors of local government councils in the state.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, says Oyo State government as a believer in the rule of law will comply with the ruling of the apex court.

The government declared that it had showcased its commitment to paying off the dissolved chairmen and councilors as far back as February 2020, when its negotiation team, pursuant to the out-of-court order of the Oyo State High Court, offered the council chairmen and councilors the same condition which the Supreme Court just affirmed.

According to the statement, the government of Oyo State would comply with the order of the apex court once the details of the ruling are made available.

The statement read: “We are on the same page with the Supreme Court of the land on the ruling which ordered the payment of salaries and allowances of the dissolved local governments.

“The apex court in its decision rejected the dissolution, affirmed that the tenure of the council chairmen had lapsed, while also asking that the state pay salaries and allowances due to them till the end of their tenure.”

“The Court also awarded a cost of 20 million naira and asked the Attorney General of Oyo State to file an affidavit of compliance latest August 7, 2021. 

“A similar decision was given against the Government of Katsina State, with the same cost of 20 million naira awarded against it.

“As far as we are concerned, the Supreme Court, by that judgment, made a policy decision, being a policy court. It was apparently sending a message to states in its attempt to protect elected local governments councils.”

“Recall that the state government had long before the ruling of the Supreme Court offered to pay the salaries and allowances of the dissolved local government chairmen. The said council chairmen scuttled the bid at the time because they came up with absolute terms, insisting that they must return to the councils with all their aides.”

Iyabo Adebisi

Sport

NSF: Oyo Govt. Presents Instant Cash Rewards to Medalists

By Web News 683

Oyo State Government has presented instant financial rewards to the state’s athletes who have so far won medals at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Edo State.

Presenting the cash awards to the medalists at the camp of Team Oyo, University of Benin, Chairman, Oyo State Sports Council, Chief Gbenga Adewusi said the gesture was to encourage other athletes to win more medals.

Chief Adewusi said the move is apart from the financial rewards to be showered on the  medalists when they return to Oyo State, and that it was the idea of Governor Seyi Makinde.

Chief Adewusi said five thousand naira courtesy of his office and another five thousand naira from the General Manager of the State Sports Council, Mr Gboyega Makinde were added to the twenty thousand naira approved by the state government as instant rewards to gold medalists.

Two gold medalists were presented with thirty thousand naira each, four silver medalists were given ten thousand naira each while eighteen bronze medalists were presented five thousand naira each.

Olaolu Fawole

Health

We need increased awareness to end TB – Oyo Commissioner

By Web News 874

Oyo State government has advocated an aggressive awareness creation and case finding to end the scourge of tuberculosis in the state.


The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Bashir Bello stated this in Ibadan during a news briefing to commemorate this year’s World Tuberculosis Day in collaboration with Breakthrough Action Nigeria and other partners.


Dr Bello pointed out that treatment for Tuberculosis in Oyo State is free, hence the need for people to go for screening when there is persistent coughing for two weeks or more.


The commissioner revealed that there are 539 health facilities offering direct observed treatment for tuberculosis and ten laboratories across the state.

The Oyo State Coordinator, Breakthrough Action Nigeria, Mrs Oluwatoyin Afachung, explained that myths and misconceptions about Tuberculosis was one of the major challenges affecting the treatment of the disease.


Mrs Afachung enjoined people to go screening in order to prevent the disease from spreading.


The theme for this year’s World Tuberculosis day is “The Clock is Ticking”.


Nafiu Busari