Transportation

Oyo Govt. Dissolves PMS Disciplinary Committee

By Web News 576

By Iyabo Adebisi

The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has ordered the dissolution of the Disciplinary Committee, Park Management System headed by Alhaji Mukaila Auxiliary.

The newly appointed Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, who disclosed this in a statement today, Friday May 29, 2023, said the dissolution is with immediate effect.

The statement reads, “I have the directive of the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde to inform you of the dissolution of the Disciplinary Committee, Park Management System with immediate effect from today, Monday, 29th May, 2023”.

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Politics

Governor Seyi Makinde’s Inaugural Address 2023

By Web News 802

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde delivers his inaugural address at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium on May 29, 2023* 

Being the Inaugural Address by His Excellency Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, on Monday, May 29, 2023, at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.

Four years ago, I took an oath before God and you, the good people of Oyo State. I pledged to put aside my self-interest to serve you to the best of my ability. Today, I stand before you to renew that pledge and reaffirm these solemn words – I will always put your interests first. 

And as we usher in Omituntun 2.0 on this day, I see another opportunity to reflect on our first term in office, recall our promises made and promises kept, and renew those promises you have given us another opportunity to keep. 

We have worked hard to stimulate and accelerate economic and social development in Oyo State. As promised, we have extracted value from once-moribund facilities and abandoned projects in Oyo State. In 2019, just a few months after we came into office, we set our sights on reviving the Pacesetter Quarry and Asphalt Plant, Ijaiye. We have since handed it over to private investors in keeping with our mantra that the only business government should have in business is to create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.

We rehabilitated the main bowl of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba. And what a proud moment it was when our State hosted an international match at that stadium for the first time in about thirty years.

We also rehabilitated the once-moribund Oyo State Agricultural Development Programme Headquarters, Saki, the Rural Community Development Centre, Aawe, and we are on the verge of making history as we convert the Fasola Farm Settlement into a modern agribusiness industrial hub.

We have built a solid foundation for sustainable development.

Under Omituntun 1.0, we prioritised infrastructural development. We completed over 137 km of road projects, taking a top-to-bottom approach to road rehabilitations and reconstructions. We focused on interconnecting all the zones because we knew that therein lies the key to kick-starting our no zones left behind policy.

We built roads such as the 76.7 km Ogbomoso-Fapote-Iseyin Road – a completely new road construction. No road had ever existed in that place before now. But we knew that this construction would open up the Ogbomoso and Oke-Ogun Zones. Already, we have big businesses springing up on that road.

We are also constructing the 110 km Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road. We plan to complete the construction of this road with all ancillary amenities that will give our people a first-world transport experience on that route within this tenure.

Our top-to-bottom approach also means that under Omituntun 2.0, we will ensure that we complete all ongoing road projects and give priority attention to internal roads in urban areas. 

We laid the groundwork for ensuring that we have a modern transportation system. We completed two bus terminals and have another two in view. We set up infrastructure that made it possible for our airport to fuel aeroplanes for the first time since the Ibadan Airport was constructed. We are upgrading this airport into an international airport that will serve as a viable alternative to the airport in Lagos.

We celebrated new milestones, such as when we got sole ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH).

We restored lost glories in sports. We all rejoiced when our darling Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) were reinstated into the elite division of the Nigerian football league. We plan to go a step further to see our 3SC win the league and once again compete at the regional and continental levels for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League. 

We conquered at national and international sports festivals. We set a new record for Oyo State at the 21st National Sports Festival when for the first time in Oyo State history, we won 43 Gold Medals and placed fourth on the medals table. 

We turned the trend of government owing workers salaries, pensions and gratuities. We paid all Oyo State workers regularly and consistently on the 25th of every month – the ‘GSM Day’ and even went a step further to pay the 13th month salary four years in a row for the first time in the history of Oyo State. We reduced the gratuities deficit of past administrations by over N16 billion and once again, put a smile on the faces of our fathers and mothers who served Oyo State in their youth. 

We promise to do even more under Omituntun 2.0. We will work towards ensuring that the backlog of gratuity payments is cleared within this next four years. Of course, we will continue with the consistent payment of workers’ salaries and pensions monthly.

We mourned the tragic losses of our loved ones personally, sub-nationally and nationally. But even in those trying circumstances, we saw opportunities to bond, learn from our mistakes and forge a better tomorrow as a people. 

We defied all odds, including a global pandemic and came out stronger, better. 

We accomplished all of these because you, the good people of Oyo State, supported us.

We felt your support when we said, “Use your PVC, not violence”. You spoke in one voice and showed that it is possible to conduct elections in Oyo State without any bloodshed.

We felt your support when despite the actions of a few, you refused to be divided by religion, ethnicity, language or gender. 

We felt your support when you spoke with one voice at the polls, and we won with a margin never before seen in the Oyo State history of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

Yes, everything we accomplished in the last four years was because you, the good people of Oyo State, stood by us.

And so, as we face another four years with this mandate that you have given us, we again, in all humility, ask for your support. With your backing, we know our vision for Omituntun 2.0 will become a reality. 

We have shared our plans with you in our Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023 – 2027. And we look forward to four years of sustainable development refocused on four pillars: the Economy, Education, Healthcare and Security. 

These were the same four pillars we focused on in the last four years. This is why we say Omituntun 2.0 is an upgrade. 

We are upgrading to Education 2.0.

Under Omituntun 1.0, we returned over 50,000 children to the classrooms. Through targeted interventions, such as maintaining the no-fees in public schools’ policy, we plan to return another 50,000 to the classroom in the next four years.

Another policy that will remain in place is the 15-20% budgetary allocation to education. We must urgently continue to reduce the infrastructure deficit in our public primary and secondary schools. So, we shall focus on building classrooms and other needed facilities in underserved areas in the State. 

We are upgrading to Healthcare 2.0.

Having upgraded over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) as promised under Omituntun 1.0, we will now equip these PHCs and upgrade more PHCs and other selected secondary healthcare facilities to ensure our people have even better access to quality healthcare.

We will ensure that communities without upgraded PHCs are prioritised in our quest to ensure that all 351 wards in Oyo State have an operational Tier 4 Primary Healthcare Centre.  

We are upgrading to Security 2.0.

Under Omituntun 1. 0, we enjoyed a 25% drop in crime rate, making Oyo State one of the safest States to do business in the southwest zone. This was because we gave all the security agencies in Oyo State enormous support and created a 2,000-member Amotekun corps – the most incentivised corps in the zone. We used continuous communication to smoothen out relationships among all the agencies so that they all work harmoniously.

In the next four years, we shall not rest on our oars. We will continue to give the security agencies in the State the support they need to more effectively and efficiently carry out their duties and responsibilities. 

We will further strengthen the State security architecture by training and retraining Oyo Amotekun corps members to be involved in intelligence gathering at the local level.

At the Federal level, we will continue to push for reforms that will strengthen local policing and ensure that our people continue to sleep with their eyes closed.

We are upgrading to Economy 2.0.

Under Omituntun 1.0, we focused on stimulating economic growth through Agribusiness and Infrastructure development. With the accelerated investments in these sectors, we moved our economy from N2.75 trillion in 2019 to N4.05 trillion as of Q3 2022 without increasing taxes. We also increased our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by over 90% in the same period. 

We attracted $65 million in Foreign Direct Investments and $126 million in agribusiness from development partners’ blended finance.

Our vision is to further grow our economy by building on the gains in agribusiness. Additionally, we plan to bring in investments in Solid Minerals, Sustainable Energy and Tourism.  

We are already working towards achieving this goal. Just ten days ago, we were in London to woo investors at the Oyo State International Business Summit (OYSIBS) 2023. This sets the tone for activities we will carry out in the next four years.

We will continue to be bullish about getting local and foreign direct investments into the State as we focus on youth development and creating employment opportunities for 60% of our population that form an energetic workforce. 

We know we have your support as we make tough decisions and take tough actions that will lead to improving our state’s environmental and socio-political outlook. 

So far, we have created the architecture required to bring sanity into the markets, transportation and waste management sectors. 

We have built markets and other closed environments for our traders to carry out their business without obstructing traffic and causing mayhem on our streets. Of course, every street corner should not be converted into a marketplace. 

We have built parks and other transportation hubs so transporters do not park on the roads. We are increasing the capacity of our waste managers so that our people stop seeing the medians and street corners as legal dumpsites. 

We have embarked on continuous sensitisation of the people, encouraging them to adopt a lifestyle change that will make the environment more suitable for living and business. 

Having created these structures, it is time to implement existing laws based on the principles of equity and fairness. Therefore, I have directed all relevant agencies to enforce existing traffic, waste management and street trading laws.

It is time to upgrade to the Omituntun 2.0 Lifestyle. 

We must appreciate the link between the rule of law and sustainable development. As we all know, where there is no law, there is chaos, and where there is chaos, business and development suffer. We must never allow our communities to descend to the level of chaos that will turn away investors. 

Therefore, I direct the creation of the Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OMASED). This agency will be mandated to establish a public orientation and sensitisation framework into which all agencies and departments of government must key in. This framework will ensure continuous sensitisation and enlightenment using traditional, electronic and social media. I further direct that this framework should incorporate a timetable for the enforcement of all existing traffic, waste management and street trading laws.

Let me reassure the good people of Oyo State that Omituntun 2.0 will be better than 1.0. We will work even harder to ensure that the prosperity that our people have started enjoying under Omituntun 1.0 will continue for four more years. 

Before I end this speech, let me once again thank the good people of Oyo State for giving us another opportunity to serve by voting for us a second time with an even bigger margin of victory than the first time. I thank our friends from South Africa and Botswana and from around the world who are here today including my brother from another mother, Nigel Pickard and his son, George. I also thank leaders, elders and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and all those who worked tirelessly to make today a reality. Finally, I thank my darling wife, Mrs Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, my children, Feyi, Tobi, Tayo, Folarin and Beeni for their support and understanding.

Thank you and God bless you.

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Politics

Makinde Sworn in for 2nd Term

By Web News 557

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde and deputy governor, Chief Bayo Lawal have been sworn-in to pilot the affairs of Oyo state for another four years.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent reports that Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan, venue of the swearing-in ceremony was filled to the capacity to witness the epoch making event. 

The Chief Judge of Oyo state, Justice Iyabo Yerima administered the oath of office on Governor Makinde and the deputy, Chief Lawal.

Governor Makinde shortly after taking the oath of office inspected the guard of honour mounted by the Nigeria Police, Oyo State command. 

Addressing the gathering, Governor Makinde disclosed that his administration would refocus on 4+point agenda on economic, education, health and security.

Former Ambassadors, business moguls, religious leaders and politicians, including former Senate President, Adolphus Wabara and former Governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko, witnessed the occasion.

Politics

OYHA Approves Request for 2bn Credit Facility

By Web News 474

By Mosope Kehinde

As part of the resolve of Governor Seyi Makinde to facilitate timely completion of some ongoing critical projects in Oyo State, the State legislature has approved his request to access a two billion naira credit facility.

The House gave its nod on Wednesday at its plenary.

The loan which is being offered by Fidelity Bank PLC at a concessionary interest rate of 20.5% per annum is repayable for a period of 36months.

The Governor had in a letter forwarded to the House requested for the approval of the Lawmakers to access the loan. 

The Speaker, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin who read the letter quoted the Governor as saying that the loan would be repaid from the internally generated revenue account of the State domiciled with Fidelity Bank PLC. 

The lawmakers in their unanimous approval of the request, said the development of critical infrastructure was pivotal to the socioeconomic growth of any society. 

They said since the loan is meant for the development of infrastructure, they had no choice than to support the Governor. 

The lawmakers hailed Governor Makinde for his vision to develop all zones across Oyo State

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Labour

Oni Becomes New Oyo Head of Service

By Web News 907

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced Mrs Olubunmi Olufunke Oni as the new Head of Service (HoS) for the State.

This follows the retirement of the outgoing HoS, Alhaja Amdalat Ololade Agboola who will officially bow out of service next week.

Until her new appointment, Mrs. Oni was the Permanent Secretary cabinet at the office of the governor.

The Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaja Fausat Saani gave the disclosure at a press briefing today shortly after the State Executive meeting chaired by governor Makinde.

Politics

I did not breach the agreement with coalition parties- Makinde

By Web News 777

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, declared that he had fulfilled all agreements he entered into with the political parties that aided his election in 2019.

The governor said that a lot of those who accused him of breaching the agreement reached with the parties who went into a coalition with him in 2019 did not have their facts.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that Makinde while addressing a gathering of family, and political associates of former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Micheal Adeniyi Koleosho, who celebrated his 85th birthday, at his residence in Bolajoko Estate, General Gas Area, Akobo, Ibadan, said that he had fulfilled all agreements he entered into leading to the 2019 election.

He said that a lot of people who wanted to make the 2019 coalition agreement an issue in the buildup to the 2023 election had no knowledge of the issues, adding that in the end, the will of God triumphed.

The governor described the former SSG, as one of the best politicians that the state had ever produced.

The statement further quoted the governor as saying that Chief Koleosho is one of his role models and that he had been following in his footsteps in politics.

Governor Makinde, who hailed the octogenarian’s support for his administration since he became governor in 2019, noted that Koleosho was one of the leaders who facilitated a coalition of political parties that supported him and that he was glad that he has fulfilled his promises to all the parties.

The governor also declared at the occasion that the resuscitation of the Technical College, Saki was one of his programmes under Omituntun 2.0, as according to him, the institution would promote vocational education.

The governor equally presented the gift of a brand new Toyota Landcruiser Jeep to the celebrant, praying to God to grant him more years and good health.

In his remarks, Chief Koleosho gave glory and adoration to God for attaining the age of 85, even as he called for peaceful co-existence among politicians in the state.

He charged politicians in the state to shun politics of bitterness and think of what they can do for the state.

While commending the leadership qualities of Governor Makinde, the octogenarian affirmed his unalloyed support for the state governor.

Earlier in his sermon, Pastor Dr. Oluseyi Afolabi, who read Psalm 103:1-5, admonished the celebrant to continue serving God and to avoid errors of the last minutes as he grows older.

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Religion

Continue to Practice Lessons Holy Month Taught – Makinde

By Web News 549

Oyo state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde congratulates the Muslim Ummah on the completion of the Ramadan fast which ultimately heralds the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, calling on them to sustain prayers for the state and its leaders.

Governor Makinde, who also congratulates Muslims from across the world for the dawn of another Eid-il-fitr, prayed that the Almighty Allah would accept their worship and keep them all alive and healthy to witness many more.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, quoted Governor Makinde as saying that, though the Ramadan season is over, Muslim faithful must continue to practice the lessons that the Holy Month taught us all by remaining pious and close to Allah and denying themselves in total submission to His will.

The governor equally enjoins residents of the state to continue to live together harmoniously, while urging them to remain relentless in their prayers and support for his administration. 

According to him, the incoming administration under Omituntun 2.0 will herald sustainable development and reposition the state for greater growth.

He said:

 “I also want to charge our brothers and sisters in Islam that though the Ramadan fast is over, their commitment to the ideals of prayers, selflessness and service to the community should not wane as these are values that can make our society a better place.

“I will also plead that they do not relent in their prayers for Oyo State and the country at large. 

“We believe that it is in doing these that we all can derive joy and bring about an Oyo State of our dreams.”

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PR/Iyabo Adebisi

Lifestyle

Gratifying that Mama Ogundoyin witnessed her son’s re-election- Makinde

By Web News 542

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has expressed his condolences to the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, over the death of his mother, Chief Mrs. Justina Ogundoyin.

The governor described the death of Mrs. Ogundoyin, who is the Iyaloja-General of Ibarapaland, as painful and shocking.

A statement by the Special Assistant (Print Media) to the Governor, Moses Alao, quoted the governor as also condoling with the entire Chief Adeseun Ogundoyin Dynasty of Eruwa and the people of Ibarapaland in general, even as he described the late Mrs. Ogundoyin as a heroine of note among women.

Governor Makinde declared that though the death of the Speaker’s mum would leave a huge vacuum in Ibarapaland and Oyo State, it was gratifying that she was alive to witness her son’s re-election into the House of Assembly and the landslide victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the governorship election, which he said, she laboured for.

“I commiserate with my brother and Speaker of the Oyo State, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, on the death of his dear mum and Iyaloja-General of Ibarapaland, Mrs. Tina Ogundoyin.

“I equally express my condolences to the Chief Adeseun Ogundoyin Dynasty and the entire people of Ibarapaland and pray to God to grant repose to the soul of the late Mrs. Ogundoyin, who I would like to describe as a heroine for all she fought for and achieved as a wife, mother, and community leader.

“This death is shocking and painful, but we can only give thanks to God, who gives and takes life. It is also gratifying that Mama was alive to witness the much-desired re-election of his son and the victory of our great party in the March 18 governorship and House of Assembly election.

“I encourage the Speaker and his siblings to be strong and of good courage, while I also pray to God to grant the entire Ogundoyin family the fortitude to bear this loss.”

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Politics

Guber Poll: Makinde Clears 31 out of 33 LGs in Oyo

By Web News 526

By Simeon Ugbodovon/ Maxwell Oyekunle

The incumbent governor who is the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in March 18, 2023, Governorship election in Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has won 31 out of the 33 Local Government Areas of the State.

Details of the result as announced by INEC are as follows:

 Ibadan North West:

APC 5947,

LP 74

PDP 19007

Ibarapa East:

APC 7094

LP 10

PDP 11125

 Afijio:

Accord 1357

APC 5588

PDP 13139

LP 10

Oriire:

Accord 1895

APC 9216

LP 17

PDP 13767

Atisbo:

Accord 1188

APC 6955

LP 16

PDP 9199

Oluyole:

Accord 1386

APC 6592

LP 62

PDP 21700

Surulere:

Accord 271

APC 8882

LP 173

PDP 15554

Itesiwaju:

Accord 2036

APC 4597

LP 09

PDP 8034

Saki East:

Accord 188

APC 5519

LP 07

PDP 8374

Ogo Oluwa:

Accord 50

APC 5570

LP 17

PDP 10930

Ibadan South West:

Accord 18

APC 9194

LP 166

PDP 31273

Irepo:

Accord 388

APC 9785

LP 03

PDP 7193

Olorunsogo:

Accord 998

APC 4851

LP 04

PDP 5838

Atiba:

Accord 1113

APC 7484

PDP 18389

Ibadan North East:

Accord 15

APC 8486

LP 61

PDP 29396

Ona Ara:

Accord 1212

APC 5510

LP 36

PDP 17326

 Ogbomoso South:

APC 8256

LP 58

PDP 17693

 Oyo East:

Accord 571

APC 6999

LP 16

PDP 15751

Ibarapa Central:

Accord 1455

APC 6287

LP 21

PDP 10491

Ibarapa North:

Accord 563

APC 5678

LP 07

PDP 10845

Oyo West:

Accord 431

APC 7599

PDP 15084

Ogbomoso North:

Accord 562

APC 10661

LP 89

PDP 20387

Ido:

Accord 822

APC 7825

LP 86

PDP 19284

 Kajola:

Accord 1710

APC 9523

PDP 13562

Iseyin:

Accord 501

APC 9694

LP 34

PDP 25740

Egbeda:

Accord 3072

APC 7377

LP 77

PDP 30444

Ibadan North:

Accord 2120

APC 11883

LP 174

PDP 39658

Lagelu:

Accord 886

APC 7432

LP 44

PDP 19104

Saki West:

Accord 607

APC 13753

LP 32

PDP 17452

Orelope:

Accord 1602

APC 7077

LP 10

PDP 6483

Akinyele:

Accord 1287

APC 9445

LP 66

PDP 28920

Iwajowa:

Accord 269

APC 6441

LP 6

PDP 9029

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Politics

Oyo: SDP Guber Candidate Endorses Makinde

By Web News 748

By Iyabo Adebisi

Ahead of this governorship and house of assembly election, governorship candidate of Social Democratic Party, SDP, Michael Lana has stepped down his ambition and endorsed the candidacy of Governor Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party.

At a press conference in Ibadan, Mr Lana alleged that some of those at the helm of affairs within the SDP at the state level sold out for a pittance and declared for the opposition without the consent of other stakeholders in the party.

According to him, as a result of that action, other stakeholders decided to take a decision that will be in the best interest of the neglected, aggrieved party members, the candidates and the generality of the people of Oyo State.

Mr Lana concluded that after several consultations, the party stakeholders resolved to align with Governor Seyi Makinde of the PDP.

The statement read in part: “We have also consulted widely. We have talked with some national officers of the Party and my supporters among the trade unions, traditional rulers, market associations and religious bodies.”
“As you are aware, in almost all radio interviews I attended, I was asked whether, as it had become the habit of this party, I too would step down at the end of the day. Believing I was in the midst of ideologically sound members, and knowing myself as a principled person, I always answered in the negative.”
“I believed fervently that my gospel of preaching issues and ideas would earn me the victory that the people of Oyo State deserves.”

“However, events of the past few weeks proved me wrong. Some people believed only in money politics and victory by vote buying. In fact, I became persona non grata, the moment some people within the party realized that monies sourced solely for the purpose of electioneering would not be shared among them.”
“I thank God that this attitude came to the fore now and not after we might have won the election as I wondered what they would have done to the Oyo State treasury. Their interest is not in winning the election and elevating our people from their suffering but in enriching themselves now.”
“Those who contributed to my campaign did so selflessly out of conviction of my character and traits and my desire to serve the people. And even with what we got, we worked tirelessly to make the Party very competitive and grew it to become the fastest growing party and major contender for all elective positions in the State.”
“Now that some of those at the helm of affairs of the Party within the State have sold us out for a pittance and declared for the opposition without our knowledge or consent, we had to sit down and rethink and take a decision that will be in the best interest of the neglected and aggrieved party members, the candidates and the generality of the people of Oyo State that we set out to serve.”
“After several consultations, we resolved that the best thing for Oyo State right now is to align ourselves with a really progressive candidate.

We were in fact captured by an emotional statement by a 70 year old woman who said Governor Seyi Makinde not only paid her pensions promptly but also took care of the aged women and men during the Covid 19 Pandemic.”
“This is the trait of a person that has set out to write his name in history and ensure an upliftment of the downtrodden in our State.”

“After discussing with him, we decided that His Excellency Emeritus Engineer Seyi Makinde needs help from all capable hands within and outside the State to achieve his dreams for our State and we have resolved to assist him in doing this.”

“We have therefore resolved to inform all our teeming supporters to vote massively for His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party on Saturday 18th March 2023 and get him elected as Governor of Oyo State.”

In his remark, the People’s Democratic party state chairman, Dayo Ogungbenro warned politicians in the state not to turn the state into battle ground of violence due to their ambition but allow People’s will to decide who will be the governor of the state.

Politics

Don’t use religion to influence your choice of candidate- Oyo Govt

By Web News 720

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo state government has urged electorates in the state not to allow politicians or mischief makers to use religion or other bias tools to influence their choices of candidates in this Saturday’s governorship and house of assembly elections. 

The Executive Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Administration, Reverend Idowu Ogedengbe gave the advice at an interfaith stakeholder’s engagement in Ibadan.

He also appealed to religious leaders and faith communities to sustain the peace currently being enjoyed in the state and not heat up the polity by inciting the people with religious sentiments. 

Reverend Ogedengbe also explained that election should not be a “do or die” affair, adding that Governor Seyi Makinde who has offered himself for reelection, would want the people to carefully appraise his stewardship in the last four years as a basis for their decision to choose him over others. 

While urging youths to stay away from being used by politicians to carry out any act inimical to the public interest that could undermine the electoral process, the executive assistant enlisted the various achievements of Governor Seyi Makinde from Ibadan to Oke Ogun, Ogbomoso, Saki, Iseyin and across other towns in Oyo State, as a testament that one good turn deserves another. 

Also Special Assistant to the Governor on interfaith, Reverend Femi Ibikunle noted that the unity, cohesion and peaceful coexistence in the state should not be compromised on the altar of biased politicking but purposeful representation. 

In their separate remarks, representatives of the various religious bodies vowed to speak to their adherent not to allow themselves to be used for nefarious activities by desperate politicians, during and after the elections, slated for Saturday, March 11.

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Politics

Akinwale Kicks as Labour Party Endorses Makinde

By Web News 709

By Sherifdeen Nashirdeen

Oyo state working committee of Labour Party, has announced coalition with Governor Seyi Makinde to ensure continuity of good governance in the state. 

Chairman of Labour Party in Oyo state, Mr. Sadiq Atayese made this known during a news conference at the party office, Molete, Ibadan.   

Mr. Atayese pointed out that the coalition followed due authorization from the party national working committee and careful analysis of political terrain in the state.     

He explained that the choice of Governor Makinde was due to similarity of ideology, competence, compassion for the masses and numerous achievements of the governor in many sectors. 

Mr. Atayese stated that, Alhaji Tawfiq Akinwale still remained the party’s governorship candidate, stressing that candidates for the house of assembly are in the race.     

The labour party chairman reiterated that the coalition was without monetary inducements. 

 “Our party has decided to work harmoniously with the party candidate whose ideology tallies with ours in terms of security of lives and property, infrastructure development and agriculture and food security”, Mr. Atayese emphasized.

 Meanwhile, the Labour Party governorship candidate in Oyo state, Alhaji Tawfiq Akinwale has dissociated himself with the coalition, noting that he would not step down for any candidate.     

Alhaji Akinwale, who maintained that the merger move was a surprise to him, urged supporters to remain resolute for his victory in the coming polls.

Politics

Elections: Makinde Declares Friday half-working Day

By Web News 445

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared Friday, February 24 as half-working day, to allow public and civil servants who may need to travel to perform their civic responsibilities in the Presidential/National Assembly Election, holding on Saturday, February 25.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the declaration was contained in a circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Olubanwo Adeosun.

The circular, which was addressed to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as the State House of Assembly and other extra-ministerial departments, directed that government offices will close by noon on Friday, with only staff covering essential services expected to remain at their duty posts afterwards. 

According to the circular, the declaration of Friday as half-day is in tandem with the governor’s commitment to deepening democracy and good governance.

The circular read: “His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has graciously approved the declaration of half day at work for Friday, 24th February 2023.
“In this regard, Government Offices are to close by 12 noon, while staff covering essential services are expected to remain at their duty posts. 

“Public and Civil Servants of the state are enjoined to go out on Saturday, February 25, 2023, to perform their civic responsibilities.”

Politics

Tinubu Keeps Mum at Ibadan Rally

By Web News 799

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Ibadan, Oyo State on Thursday, stood still for the All Progressives Congress, APC Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, as his campaign train hit the state.

Thousands of supporters of the party had arrived at the ancient Mapo Hall at Oja’aba as early as nine o’clock in the morning awaiting the arrival of the Presidential candidate and his entourage.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent reports that, after several hours of waiting, Asiwaju Tinubu arrived in Ibadan at half past two in the afternoon and proceeded to the State Governor’s office at the secretariat where he was received by the Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde.

The APC Presidential candidate then proceeded to the International Conference Center, University of Ibadan, where he had a closed-door meeting with Traditional rulers from the Southwest region.

Asiwaju and his entourage eventually arrived at the Mapo Hall at half past six in the evening.

Upon his arrival, Asiwaju Tinubu raised the hand of the Party’s Governorship candidate, Senator Teslim Folarin and officially presented him with the flag of the party.

According to our Correspondent, Asiwaju Tinubu did not address the crowd as he left the venue immediately after the flag presentation to Senator Folarin.

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Economy

New Notes/Fuel Scarcity: Makinde Provides Free Buses

By Web News 449

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has announced the deployment of free Omituntun transport buses to ease the pains of the people of the state from the twin crisis of naira and fuel scarcity facing Nigerians in recent weeks.

Governor Makinde, who announced this in a statewide broadcast said that the state government was ready to do whatever it could to alleviate the sufferings of the masses.

The governor, who frowned at the resort to violence protests by some residents of Ibadan  said that while citizens are free to express their feelings peacefully, government would not condone any resort to violence.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor also put all the security agencies operating in the state on high alert to avert any breakdown of law and order. 

The statement also quoted the governor as urging the people to ensure they use their Permanent Voter Cards to usher in a responsible government in the forthcoming general election, adding that resort to violence breeds other problems.

According to him, the Omituntun Mass Transit Buses would be deployed to more routes within the state for free, in order to ameliorate the suffering of the people.  

The governor also said that the state was also working with Chairmen of local governments to provide  immediate palliatives  for the vulnerable people in order  to alleviate the hardships that the twin scarcity of naira and fuel have brought upon them. 

He urged all law-abiding citizens and residents of the state to go about their lawful activities peacefully.

It would be recalled that protests rocked major streets in Ibadan over the scarcity of new naira notes and fuel leading to destruction of public properties.

Education

JAC Pays ‘Thank You’ Visit to Makinde

By Web News 875

Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Trade Unions in the Oyo state owned tertiary institutions has urged Governor Seyi Makinde to continue payment of its sustainability support for all staff for them to enjoy their full salary. 

The JAC officials who led other members on a “Thank You” visit to the Governor’s office in Ibadan, also enjoined the Governor to defray remaining salary arrears owed by the previous administration spanning 2018 to 2019 across the institutions amounting to 1.4 billion naira. 

Speaking on behalf of the team, the JAC chairman, Mr Segun Oyewumi reeled out the many interventions and achievements of Governor Seyi Makinde to the tertiary institutions which included payment of over 6.8 billion naira salary arrears from 8.6 billion naira owed them by the previous administration and approval of a sustainability support to assist payment of salaries amongst others. 

The JAC chairman also acknowledged the governor for his many welfare programmes to the people, particularly his effort in repositioning higher education in the state. 

Responding, Governor Makinde assured them that his administration would continue with the sustainability support while awaiting a permanent solutions. 

He promised to continue to interface with stakeholders in the state owned tertiary institutions to ensure a better system.

The Joint Action committee of the trade unions in Oyo state higher institutions, JAC consists of Emmanuel Alayande University of Education,The Polytechnic Ibadan, Oyo State college of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic,Saki, Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa and Oyo state College of Education, Lanlate.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Security

We cannot forget our fallen heroes- Governors

By Web News 667

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde wants security agencies to remain neutral as the nation marches towards the general election to maintain peace in Nigeria.

The Governor stated this at the Grand finale/laying of wreaths of the 2023 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day, held at the Remembrance Arcade, Agodi, Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

Governor Makinde was received at the programme by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Aminu Chinade, the governor inspected the guard of honour mounted by the armed forces, accompanied by the parade commander, while heads of security agencies in the state were on the ground.

Governor Makinde later laid wreath in honour of the fallen heroes, followed by the GOC, and the Oyo State chairman of the Nigerian Legion, among other heads of security agencies and top government officials in the state.

Addressing journalists at the end of the event, Governor Makinde while stressing the need for security agencies to be fair stated that politics would end but Nigeria as an entity would remain.

Governor Makinde appreciated officers and men of Nigerian Armed forces for their contribution to nation building in view of security challenges facing the nation. 

The Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in the state, Julius Ogunkojo, commended the state governor for his support while also calling for government’s assistance for his members.

Highlights of the event was the gun salute in honour of the fallen heroes and the release of ceremonial pigeons by the governor, which signifies peace.

The Armed Forces and Remembrance Day is held annually in Nigeria, on January 15, to remember the nation’s fallen heroes.

Similarly, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke says the nation owes a debt of gratitude to the service men and women for their past and present service to the nation.

Governor Adeleke stated this at the grand finale and Laying of Wreath at the military cenotaph for the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Osogbo.

While commending the sacrifices made by the Fallen heroes in defending the Nation’s sovereign integrity, peace and unity, the Governor advocated a renewed focus on funding of the security sector alongside security sector reform.

He noted that the country is faced with mounting security challenges at a time of national and global economic crises, stressing that National and state leaders must brainstorm on how best to meet the financial needs of the security sector.

“We must re-evaluate our financing options, focusing not just on military hardware. We must innovate to care sufficiently for the welfare of service personnel and veterans. Neglecting welfare of service personnel is a disservice to effective national defense”.

Governor Adeleke assured veterans in Osun State that his government is already looking into their long list of demands which in due course, immediate action will be taken to satisfy the aspirations of veterans in the state.

The grand finale of the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration which had in attendance dignitaries from government and the Security agencies featured laying of Wreath and special parade in honour of the departed heroes.

Iyabo Adebisi / Funmi Adekoya

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Politics

We’ll address challenges of electricity in Ibarapa – Makinde

By Web News 678

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says his administration will set up the Rural Electrification Board to address power supply in Ibarapa zone of the state.

The governor, while addressing thousands of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the state campaign flag-off held at Igboora, said the reconstruction of Eruwa to Ibadan road would begin in two weeks.
A statement by the Media Committee of the Governor Seyi Makinde Re-election Campaign Council, said the governor promised that he would make sure that Ibarapa is fully carried along on the Rural Electrification Board.

He said: “Few weeks back, I promised that we would flag-off the 2023 campaign here in Ibarapa zone and that is what we are doing here today. The state flag-off is what is happening here, but by the time we begin the LG to LG campaign, I will come back to tell you what Ibarapaland will benefit in the next administration, which is Omituntun 2.0.
“I know that you have the challenge of electricity supply here.

“So, God has been helping us in Oyo State to do what is right for our people. We have paid the salary of civil servants consistently for 44 months out of 48. We cancelled the N3,000 levy for our students so they can go to schools without any hitch.
“We promised that our infrastructure will target our economy and we are doing that. I am happy that the road from Igboora junction to Iganna has been awarded to a contractor and work has begun already.

In their separate remarks, PDP leaders in Ibarapa zone, Dr. Olusola Ayandele and Chief Ademola Eniade, appreciated Governor Makinde for the infrastructure development and other achievements across Ibarapaland.

They declared that all towns in Ibarapa are solidly behind Governor Makinde, adding that the people would vote en masse for all the candidates of PDP.

Earlier before the state flag-off of the governor’s campaign,Governor Makinde and his wife Tamunominini were installed as Aare Atayese and Yeye Aare Atayese of Ibarapaland by the Olu of Igboora, Oba Jimoh Olajide.

The installation ceremony took place at the Olu of Igboora’s palace.

The installation ceremony was witnessed by the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao; Onidere of Idere, Oba Kingsley Aderoju; Onilala of Lanlate, Oba Sunday Oladejo and the Oluaso of Iberekodo, Oba Jamiu Ademola.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

Seyi Makinde Flags off Second Term Bid

By Web News 510

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party in their thousands in Oyo state have converged on Mapo Ibadan, the Oyo state capital to officially flag off the second term campaign of Governor Seyi Makinde.

Present at the flag-off ceremony are the G-5 governors of PDP in Rivers, Benue, Enugu and Abia, Nyesom Wike, Samuel Ortom, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Okezie Ikpeazu.

Governor Makinde having been presented a party flag by the Deputy National Chairman of PDP in the South West, Taofeek Arapaja alongside other candidates promised to continue with people-oriented programmes if re-elected.

Governor Makinde appreciated the people of Oyo state and party faithful for entrusting the destiny of the state under his care assuring that more developmental projects and programmes would be witnessed in the state if reelected.

The five governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also known as the G-5 who took turns to speak commended Governor Makinde for fulfilling his 2019 election promises to the people by transforming the state in terms of economy and infrastructure.

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers and his counterpart from Benue states while describing Governor Makinde as a trustworthy person told party faithful to vote for him and other candidates of PDP in Oyo state in the forthcoming elections

However, the G-5, also referred to as the integrity governors silent on the presidential candidate the group is supporting at the presidential election slated for February 25.

PDP stalwarts and members of Atike/Okowa presidential campaign organization including former Minister of State for FCT, Chief Jumoke Akinjide and other leaders from the southwest zone of the party attended the event.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Economy

Makinde Puts Smile on Pensioner’s Faces

By Web News 432

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has approved a Christmas bonus of N10,000 for every pensioner in the state. 

The governor, who approved the bonus said the action was taken to assist retired workers, who served the state meritoriously, to have a good Yuletide.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the bonus, tagged Christmas Turkey Bonus, is coming days after the government paid December 2022 salary to the workers and pensions.

The government had also approved the payment of 13th month’s salary, which Governor Makinde said would be paid on or before December 31 2022.

The statement read: “His Excellency has approved the payment of N10,000 to all pensioners in the state as a Christmas Turkey bonus. “It is a flat rate for all pensioners.

“The bonus is coming days after the state government paid the December 2022 salaries to workers and pensioners. The governor had equally approved the payment of 13th month’s salary, which is expected to be paid on or before December  31, 2022.

“His Excellency wishes that all retirees will enjoy a Merry Christmas.

“The bonus is a token of His Excellency’s appreciation and assistance to our aged and retired citizens, who had served the state meritoriously for decades.”

Iyabo Adebisi

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Sport

FG Fulfils Pledge to 1994 Nations Cup Super Eagles

By Web News 548

28 years after, the Federal Government has fulfilled its promise of house gifts to the Super Eagles team who won the African Cup of Nations in 1994.

Keys to the houses were presented to the players and other beneficiaries of phase one of the Federal Government’s National Housing Programme by the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola at a formal ceremony held in Ibadan.

Presenting the keys, Mr Fashola, who was represented by the Federal Controller, Housing Sector, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Ibadan, Mr Jacob Gbolahan, said a total of 694 applications of subscribers had been approved by his ministry who were billed to benefit from the housing scheme Oyo State.

Mr Fashola called on other residents in Oyo State to key into the initiative and leverage the many unsold units in the state.

He added that the houses were currently available for sale to all Nigerians at the Ministries Portal at www.nhp.housing.gov.ng.

In a remark, Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, represented by Director of Lands Management, State Ministry of Lands, Audu Ademola, appealed to the Federal Government to judiciously use other parts of the allocated lands so that the people of Oyo State and Nigerians, in general, would benefit from the dividends of democracy.

The Ex-Super Eagles players, who were physically present at the handing-over ceremony, were Mutiu Adepoju and Ike Shorunmu.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Education

Local Councils in Oyo Get Education Secretaries

By Web News 570

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of 33 Local Government Education Secretaries for all the local councils in the state.

The appointments, which were made public on Wednesday, were communicated through a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Olubamiwo Adeosun.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicates that the appointments were with effect from December 19, 2019.

The statement quotes Adeosun as congratulating the new Local Government Education Secretaries, charging them to see their appointments as a call to service and urging them to discharge their duties with absolute loyalty, dedication and diligence.

The letter equally mandates that the gesture should also be replicated at the local government level with the establishment of Local Government Universal Basic Education Agencies and the appointment of part-time chairmen and other members in all the LGUBEAs in the state, in accordance with the relevant extant regulations.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Labour

Makinde Assures Labour Leaders of Continuous Support

By Web News 519

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has assured the leadership of the Labour Unions in the state that his administration would continue to cooperate with them as partners in progress and contributors to the growth and development of the state.

He stated this during a meeting with the leadership of the Labour Unions in the state, held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, 

The governor said his government would always work with the leadership to ensure that their agitations are addressed without protests and confrontations.

 While calling for patience from the Labour Unions, Governor Makinde noted that the agitations of many years cannot be resolved in a few years.

The governor, however, pledged to always have a quarterly engagement with the labour unions starting from March, 2023.

He also sought the cooperation of the civil servants and labour leaders to help improve the Internally Generated Revenue of the state in order to cover its recurrent expenditure.

Earlier, the leadership of the Labour Unions commended the magnanimity of Governor Makinde towards the state workers, pledging their unconditional support for the success of the present administration in the state.

The meeting created an avenue for the government to discuss ways to improve the welfare of the state’s workers.

Iyabo Adebisi

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Lifestyle

Makinde Approves N10 Million for Apata Fire Victims

By Web News 396

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has sympathised with traders who lost properties in last Thursday’s petrol tanker fire, which rocked the Apata area of Ibadan.

Governor Makinde, who led top government officials to inspect the scene of the fire disaster, said that his administration would immediately release the sum of N10 million to cushion the effects of the inferno.

Governor Makinde described the fire incident as unfortunate, adding that his government would do everything within its power to bring succour to the victims.

“I have just asked that an immediate relief of N10m should be given to them at least to have something for this holiday while we look at the list and extent of the losses here.”

Iyabo Adebisi

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Transportation

Gov. Makinde Re-awards Igangan-Igbo-Ora Road

By Web News 689

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has re-awarded Igangan to Igbo-Ora road in the Ibarapa North Local Government Area of the state.

The governor said this while speaking at the stakeholders and Town Hall meeting held at the Eruwa Town Hall, Eruwa.

He maintained that his administration has paid 30 percent to fix the road from Igboora to Eleko-kan.

Governor Makinde said his administration was so passionate to fix Eruwa Farm Settlement to boost Agriculture in the zone, saying that he had earmarked the money for the project but he is awaiting the proof of concept.

He added that the mobilisation for the project would be done within the first few weeks of January 2023.

The governor equally promised to refund all the money of the aspirants that bought the forms during the party primary.

He, however, said he would give buses to CAN and League of Imams at the Eruwa zone of the state, adding that the Buses earlier promised to the Students Union bodies will be given before this year’s Christmas.

Earlier, the clerics, traditional rulers, artisans, farmers, Students Union and other stakeholders commended the governor over the various projects he has executed in the part of the Ibarapa zone of the state, adding that Ibarapa people would continue to support his administration.

The town hall meeting availed Governor Makinde to commission the Lecture Theatre at Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic and later led some members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, on a house-to-house political campaign.

Among the places touched were Ogundoyin Road, Isaba Roundabout/Junction, Eruwa, where he was personally distributing campaign leaflets to the people of the areas.

Iyabo Adebisi

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