August , 2018 Of Osun Defender Newspaper

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How OYES Transformed My Life - Ex-Cadet, Mofolake Adeleke

FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

A bar chart showing increase in number of gubernatorial candidates for 2007, 2014 and 2018 elections in Osun.

•Sultan AbdulRahamon

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One of our cadets is now Serving as an OYES into supply of cooking gas at cadet really transformed Ife and now has a business my life and I will forever valued over N4 million. He be grateful to the started with taking bike to Governor of Osun for campus to deliver gas, he is paying my second year now an owner of his own PhD session pickup and three school fees. See Editorial On Page 4 gas outlets.

How I Learnt Bead Making Through Mere Observation - Disabled 13Year-old Boy •Adeleke

VOL. 013. NO.32

PAGE 3

N100

A Tightening Race Osun 2018: 22 Days To Go!

•Col Oyewole Eniibukun, Osun OYES Commandante

e Pag2

•Intriguing Scenarios

•We ‘ll Win With Landslide - APC •PDP, ADP, Others Optimistic Of Victory

Osun Poll: 13 Governors, Ministers, Senators, Others In APC Campaign Committee - PAGE 3

SEE PAGE 2

Osun 2018: 22 Days To Go! Shifting Alliances, Fluid Permutations 2

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NEWS

FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

development in the state. it wins the election on the PDP would take the that with the level of

By Kehinde Ayantunji No political party has the September 22 and stay day. Various categories acceptability enjoyed by As political parties warm up for the governorship kind of chances the APC away from any possible of APC members have the party’s candidate and election next month, there is growing concern has”, he claimed run-off poll. defected to the PDP and the support of God, it is among political observers that there might be a runSimilarly, the Also, a member of the that tells you there is no certain that the party off election if no party meet the requirement to be spokesperson for PDP in the state, Mr way we are heading for a would win the election in pronounced winner. a straight poll without Moshood Adeoti Akintunde Sherrif said run off.

The electoral act 2010 as amended provides that Campaign Organisation, there is likely not going to “By every standard, going to run-off. before any candidate can leaders seems to be Mr Kayode Agbaje told be a run off election, as the PDP is ready and set “We might not be be pronounced winner of creating a stumbling this medium that people the people, by his to win the election making noise as expected the election, such block to its victory in of the state are calculation, are already without getting to go for by many, but I am candidate must garner 25 some areas, except there determined to vote for tired of the APC a second round of poll, assuring you that we will per cent of votes cast in are last minute changes. the ADP and would not government and would every pointers showed surprise the populace two-third of the local In the same vein, the hesitate in doing so not hesitate to vote PDP. that the APC may not and all the other political governments in the state ADP may bring its block massively to ensure its “If the people of the even be second in this parties after the poll and also majority votes of votes from Iwo Federal victory on September 22. state are the one that election”, he added when we might have the total votes cast.

Constituencies but it is He added that the would vote and not The ADC been pronounced the Finding have however not certain that the party party is not relenting in importing voters from spokesperson, Mr winner of the poll”, he shown that members of would have enough fire its effort at ensuring that other state, we are sure Kayode Oladeji disclosed said. some major political power to muscle the parties are envisaging required votes in the 20 that with 48 candidates local government areas of going into the election, the state to win the the highest in the history election out rightly. of Osun, it might be The PDP as it is, could difficult to have just one- bring block votes from round poll that will Ede but the party, though determiner the winner. spending very high, However, OSUN seems not to have enough D E F E N D E R credibility to win the poll investigation gathered in a straight election, that the possibility of an even with the level of alliance among the defection in its favour. dominant political However, when the parties may no longer be medium contacted the possible before the APC spokesperson, election on September 22, Barrister Kunle Oyatomi, as all the parties are he disclosed that the APC bragging of the needed is sure of winning the support to win the September 22 election. gubernatorial election in Prior to a straight poll and there commencement of is no need for any run off. political campaigns, talks According to him, of political alliance and “You can take a bet, there merger were going on wouldn’t be any run off, among some of the major once the APC is far ahead •Scene of an accident at Isale Osun, Osogbo last Saturday.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI. parties in the election all of the other before the talks contenders the poll collapsed, while a party would be a straight one chieftain who prayed for it to win. groups discussing with contrary directives.

By Israel Afolabi anonymity claimed that “We are confident that However, at the State each others. talks are still going on.

Workers in the state of Osun complied with the of Assembly complex, the APC is a party to beat A worker who pleaded It was gathered that any day and any time. stay at home directive of Nigeria Labour Congress talks between SDP and People of Osun know [NLC] in the state as a means of pressing home their staff members were not anonymity said, though the government has done in their offices but ADP broke down over these and are determined demand for the payment of outstanding salary security operatives were its best to ensure that who bears the flag of the to vote for continuity of arrears’ owed them by the State Government. found around the workers are able to go merger, just as Dr. Akin The NLC had on premises, while cleaners home with something Ogunbiyi’s faction of the Tuesday declared a three and guards reported at every month through PDP also claimed he is days warning strike their usual work stations. modulated salary as a still in PDP and has no expected to end today.

Meanwhile, a worker result of the economic plan to defect to any The labour unions who showed up in the situation, but appealed to other party, even though were demanding for the office, Mr. Afolabi government to quickly he had meetings with payment of the Adeleke revealed to our find lasting solution to Senator Iyiola Omisore, remaining part of their reporter that he was the unpaid arrears so that the SDP candidate.

From the table on front page, the gubernatoModulated Salary arrears around to spy on what is they can resume work in Similarly, the chances rial candidates that contested for the seat of govamong other demands. going on and to know earnest. of SDP and PDP working ernment in Osun in 2007 were 14 in number. In Findings revealed that how staff complied with Another civil servant together is no longer most of the government living around the 2011, there was no election in the state because the strike directives. feasible as the SDP parastatals offices in Secretariat, Mr. Hameed Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola couldn't comIn the same vein, at the candidate, Omisore has Osogbo were under lock State asked Government Oloyede publicly claimed that he plete his second term in office. The court of apand key while some Secretariat Abere government to do justice cannot return to the PDP peal in Ibadan nullified his election and deworkers were seen to workers over unpaid workers were not on and his chances of clared Governor Rauf Aregbesola as the newly hanging around the duty, but few were seen Arrears of one and half becoming the governor of elected governor of the state in November 2010. premises awaiting any in front of their offices in years. the state is better in SDP. In 2014, the number of candidates that made a Meanwhile, at the State The medium findings bid to occupy the seat reduced to 10.

High Court in Osogbo, it showed that the SDP In 2018, just a period of four years to 2014, was under lock and key, could garner block votes the number increased in a geometric progresResident Electoral Commissioner in Osun, Mr. as cases slated for the day from Ife Federal sion from 10 to 48 candidates, the highest record Olusegun Agbaje has again disclosed that over were put on hold. constituency but there is Some of the people 500,000 Permanent Voters’ Cards are yet to be no certainty that it could in the history of gubernatorial contest since the who had cases in court gather 25 per cent votes collected by registered voters in the state. creation of the state and even in Nigeria as a in 20 out of 30 local whole.

He spoke during the the state, leaving a were disappointed that governments across the presentation of soft balance of 515,773 as at proceeding could not What could have accounted for this astrohold as a result of the state or the majority of copies of voters’ register August 17. nomical increase in the turnover of the candiwarning strike. total votes cast to become to 48 political parties The REC who also dates vying for Osun gubernatorial seat?.

Reacting to the strike, the ruling party in the participating in the released the names of The answer is not far-fetched.

It could not be state.

September 22 governorship aspirants the Commissioner for divorced from the fact that the present governInformation and Also, the APC might governorship election in and their running mates ment under the leadership of Ogbeni Rauf Strategy, Mr Adelani gathered block votes the state. to the parties for Baderinwa said the from Osogbo, Olorunda Aregbesola has made the seat a darling of all in According to him, a verification, said that the government is working Ifelodun/Boripe/Odothe last 8years. total of 1,152,751 PVCs exercise was in line with towards resolving issues Otin and Ijesa-South Ogbeni has raised the bar of governance with have so far been the electoral act of the raised by the labour Federal constituencies super infrastructure development and social collected by voters out of country and the law of union with a view to have among others, but the well being of the people. the 1,668,524 received in the commission. defection of some party them return to work.

Warning Strike: Osun Govt Offices Shut

Basis For Geometric Progression In Number Of Governorship Candidates In Osun

Osun: Over 500,000 PVCs Not Yet Collected

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Osun Govt Receives Accolades On Infrastructure Development FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

By Sola Jacobs

Government of Osun under Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has received accolades for investing in infrastructure development and creating rooms for provision of services and products which place the state on the same pedestal with Urban economy.

This were the indigenes living outside assertions of Osun the state and travelled

NEWS

OSUNDEFENDER

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back home for Eid-ilKabir celebration, in different chats with OSUN DEFENDER in Osogbo.

Mallam Quadr Adediran, an Osun indigene living in

Republic of Benin said he visited the state about five years ago and lauded the new look of Osun, particularly Osogbo in the area of infrastructure development, especially the construction of roads

within the metropolis.

He also noted that the building of state-of-art schools, opening of new roads as well as cleanliness of cities across the state are all commendable.

delegation led by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Adeniyi Oginni in his office in Osogbo.

The OHIS delegation, who visited the YESSO office with a view to seeking partnership with the agency in the area of

data gathering in its quest at achieving qualitative universal health coverage specifically for the poor and vulnerable in the state.

He disclosed that the unwavering commitment of Governor Rauf A r e g b e s o l a ’ s

administration to the cause of the downtrodden as reflected in his several policies and social safety net interventions has transformed the lives of residents across the nooks and crannies of the state.

Ifaturoti, who doubles as the Director General, Bureau of Social Services, Office of the Governor, enjoined the visiting delegation not to rest on its oars at ensuring the achievement of qualitative universal health coverage for the poor in the State.

Earlier in his remarks at the meeting, Dr. Oginni maintained that OHIS in its quest to providing access to qualitative health care to all and sundry specifically the poor and vulnerable in the society deemed it necessary to seek partnership with the agency.

Isaac Adewole, Minister of Health, Senators Sola Adeyeye, Babajide Omoworare and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro among many others.

Mr Jamal Aderibigbe, an Osun indigene living in Plateau state commended the social infrastructure provided by the government, especially at the Freedom Park in Osogbo and advocated that similar feat be provided in major cities of the state, to encourage tourists.

According to him, the development has facilitated growth in the economy of the state, which had led to increase in number of modern houses and placed more value on landed properties.

In his own observation, Miss Aderoju Emiola an undergraduate who lives in Abuja lauded the job creation opportunities in the state and urged youths to take the opportunities that abound to make a living.

In all, they all affirmed that the economy of the state is developing but the government should concentrate more on social welfare of the people and make rural development its priority, via road construction, functional health care delivery, promotion of small scale enterprises and development of raw material to fast track its industrial development so as to create job for its teeming youth and enhance rural development.

They contended that though the government has done well in virtually all areas of economy, but there is need to have a government in next dispensation that would build on the current development.

anybody, I did it. Some are N1000, some are

N1,300” as he displayed his designed wares for people to see.

In his account, he was born on May 2005 to Mr Abdulrahman and K a f a y a t Abdulrahman. His father is from Atoyebi compound, but he seldom lives with his mum as he had another wive in Ilorin.

Sultan had three other siblings and his mother solely cares for them, he said.

He attended Tahwun Nursery and Primary school, in Atelewo in •Continued on page 14

Govt Under Aregbesola Has Done Well In Social Protection - Ifaturoti

By David Adejuwon

State Coordinator, Osun Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (YESSO), Mr. Olufemi Ifaturoti has for the umpteenth time scored Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola’s administration very high in the area of social protection since the creation of the state.

Ifaturoti stated this Osun Health Insurance while playing host to Scheme (OHIS)

Osun Poll: 13 Governors, Ministers, Senators, Others In APC Campaign Committee

•Mr Femi Ifaturoti (middle), Dr Oginni (4th left) and other members of the OHIS delegation and YESSO team during the meeting.

By Israel Afolabi Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has been appointed to lead 12 other governors and party leaders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Committee for the September 22, governorship election in Osun.

Others are Govenors National chairman of the party, Adams Godwin Obaseki of Edo, O s h i o m h o l e Yahaya Bello of Kogi, inaugurated the Simon Lalong of Plateau, campaign committee for Kashim Shettima of Mohammed the election on Borno, Umar Jibrilla of Wednesday.

The list include 13 Adamawa, Mohammed governors and party Badaru and Abubakar of executive totalling 60 Jigawa.

Also in the committee members of the APC to lead Gboyega Oyetola’s are, Emma Ibediro, statewide campaign National Organizing Secretary, Pastor which is billed to start Bankole Oluwajana, next week Tuesday.

National Vice Chairman Among those in the (S/W), Tajudeen Bello, committee are Governor National Financial AbdulAzeez Abubakar Secretary, Yari of Zamfara as Babatunde John Deputy Chairman; Kwame Ogala, National Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Legal Adviser, Hajiya the party National Salamatu Baiwa UmarDeputy Chairman as Eluma, National Women Secretary; Governor Leader, Sadiq S. Akinwunmi Ambode of Abubakar, National Lagos, Ibikunle Amosun Youth Leader and of Ogun, Abiola Ajimobi A b d u l r a h m a n of Oyo, Ogbeni Rauf Dambazau (rtd), Aregbesola of Osun, Minister of Interior.

Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Those in the of Ondo and Owelle committee also include, Rochas Okorocha of Imo. Dan-Ali, Minister of

Defence, Adebayo Shittu, Minister of Communications, Ibe Kachikwu, Minister of State, Petroleum, Babatunde Fashola,

Minister of Power, Works & Housing, Rotimi Amaechi, Minister of Transport, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information,

3

How I Learnt Bead Making Through Mere Observation - Disabled 13-Year-old Boy

By Sola Jacobs

Inspite of his disability in both hands and young age, Sultan AbdulRahman, 13-year-old JSSII students of Ogidan Middle School in Osogbo refused to budge, as he confidently walked in to Osun Defender office at Ogo-Oluwa area in Osogbo, Osun State capital and requested to be patronized for his wares.

When asked about w i t h what he sells in curiosity, amazement he quickly let out of his how he nylon bag, sets of bead managed accessories he made to to do the vocational sell.

Sultan who claimed to w o r k be living with his grand despite his mother at Kobo Area in disability, Osogbo said, he did not or is it the learn the bead and case that wireworks making from he market o r anyone, he just observed f it, tried it and it worked. someone, he affirmed, “I When he was asked am not marketing for

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‘

Omisore's Big Lie

Posing as a financial wizard is a good strategy imperative when you are running for the governorship of a state.

Unfortunately, a onetime chairman of the Senate Appropriation Committee and governorship candidate on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Iyiola Omisore has his sums muddled up. This is probably why he didn’t have an effective tenure as chairman of the senate’s appropriation committee.

Trying to make a campaign issue out of the debt profile of Osun has left Omisore looking rather a waterish. His attack position is not based on the use of verifiable statistical analyses but on falsehood. This is straight out of the playbook of Frank Josef Coebells, Adolf Hitler’s propaganda Chief. Coebells infamously instructed his civil servants that in pursuit of their objective – “Never, ever tell a small lie. The bigger the lie, the more brazen, the better. A lie told sufficiently often, will eventually assume the posture of the truth”.

The facts about the debt profile are verifiable from the Debt Management Office (DMO) and multilateral agencies.

The foresight and planning of the Osun State government has been pro-active and is based on the capacity to withstand unanticipated buffeting.

It is on record that the State’s indebtedness stands as at today at N170.6 billion made up of N141.1 billion domestic and N29.5 billion multilateral debts, and is going down every month since the state never defaults on repayment.

The good news here is that by 2019, the N30 billion vanilla bonds obtained in 2012 would have

OYES: A Transformative Success Story

Today marks a wonderful effect on the economy of the dawn, as 20,000 youths are Having already taken state. A N200 million monthly being inducted into the has had an invigorating off over 40,000 youth off infusion State Osun Youth effect on the purchasing power Empowerment Scheme the streets and parity and trajectory of the state.

(OYES). Having already empowered them through We have focused in our paper taken off over 40,000 youth on some of the individuals such life-changing skills off the streets and as Mofoluke Adeleke and their empowered them through testimonials about the life acquisition, the state life changing skills beneficial effects of government is powering changing, acquisition, the state the scheme. This newspaper government is powering gives great kudos to the ahead with its much ahead with its much progressive intervention of acclaimed, widely acclaimed, widely emulated Governor Rauf Aregbesola, as emulated social social empowerment well as the managerial acumen of programme.

Mr. Femi Ifaturoti, the barristerempowerment Skills acquisition is the at-law who has so well programme. foundation for the marshaled the birth and formation of Social Capital. coordination of the scheme.

Social Capital constitutes the bedrock for genuine The invigorating Commandante of the scheme, empowerment as the basis for individual self- Colonel Enibukun Oyewole (rtd) has adopted a actualisation. OYES is a volunteer scheme and it thorough hands-on perspective which has benefited is not mandatory to attach a stipend. However, the thousands of intakes. The judgment of posterity on provision of a stipend is not only a motivating their pioneering, socially beneficiary effort will be factor, it has had a vigorously positive multiplier positive.

SARS Killing At Iwo Appalling

While commiserating with the family members of the victim, a student, Nafiu Tunde, killed by men of the State Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) in Iwo, we must condemn this inhumane act.

Tunde was said to be in town to celebrate Eid elKabir festival before being gunned down on his way to Iwo from Oluponna.

The killing at Iwo is one of the very many evils men of the SARS have been perpetrating all over the federation.

This followed series of complaints shared by young Nigerians who seem to be the targets and objects of onslaughts in the hands of men of the SARS who are paid to secure their lives.

It has been reported of them how they use rented mini-buses and rickety motorcycles to trail suspects in a menacing manner that

often creates public nuisance. If you are a youth moving around with a bag containing a laptop, or driving in the company of friends in a good car, you are likely to be accosted and sometimes harassed by SARS operatives.

Terrible tales have also been told of unjustified arrests of persons, only

for such persons to be extorted and even sometimes led at gunpoint to automated transfer machines (ATM) to either withdraw cash or transfer same to accounts of policemen.

This has led to some

Nigerians calling for the scrapping of Special Anti Robbery Squad, famously known as SARS. Meanwhile, the reactions of the youths in the area was nothing to write home about as they took laws into their hands, destroyed a police station as a way to avenge the death of their

colleague. But for the efforts of the traditional ruler of the town, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Olawale Akanbi (Telu I) for whose timely intervention put a stop to what could have degenerated into a full-

blown crisis the story told of this would have been gruesome.

Our youths must come to the realization of the fact that two wrongs can never make a right, taking laws into their hands is as bad as the offence committed and it is liable to jail terms.

However, the incident should be investigated and perpetrators of the dastardly act must be brought to justice, only this can assuage the bereaved and the irate youths in the area.

Also, the IG must go and do as stated by the Acting President Yemi Osibanjo. He must overhaul that unit with a great deal of sincerity of purpose so has to drag out the name of the SARS currently cooling off in the mud.

•BASHIR ADEBAYO, Ede, State of osun

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been fully repaid. Also, the N11.4 billion Sukuk bond would be fully repaid in 2020. This will free up a lot of the resources of the state and the projects procured with the loans would have been a huge gain.

The key point about debt obligations which even a toddler will know is the ability – to – repay. The former senate appropriation chairman knows this and is been clever by half. The foresight and planning of the Osun State government has been pro-active and is based on the capacity to withstand unanticipated buffeting.

The debt, as at the time they came were, not meant to be hard on the state’s finances. Then, oil was selling above $100 and Osun was netting above N4 billion from the federation account every month. From this amount, the state was able to set something aside for the raining day in form of Omoluabi Conservation Fund.

Problem came when oil price fell to as low as $22. This affected not only Osun but all the states of the federation, including the Federal Government. Indeed, this hit the Federal Government so bad that the then Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, cried that the administration had to borrow N476 billion from commercial banks to be able to pay salaries in the last four months of his administration. This explains the low allocation to Osun.

The use of debt instruments is key in the process of facilitating development. Osun is repaying debts which have transformed the physical and social infrastructure in the state for the long-term benefit of the overwhelming majority as well as generation yet unborn. This is of course, difficult for Iyiola Omisore who is always focused on the immediate to understand. His negative track record as the Senate chairman of the appropriation committee speaks volumes. Under him the odious contraption known as “budget padding” came into the lexicon.

A man under indictment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) can hardly be convincing as a financial strategist.

The Aregbesola interregnum in the affairs of the State of Osun has been transformative. If you seek to know what has been achieved, please look around you at all the evidence of a new, improved Osun. Omisore has by making ill-thought out allegations exposed his alarming lack of managerial capacity. The people of Osun will be ill-advised to burden a state that against all odds made such great progress, with a man who is clearly not up to the job. We have all been put on notice.

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Birth Of OYES And Success Story In Osun

MAGAZINE

FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

Apart from the new intake of another 20,000 youths, over 40,000 have been taken off the streets in the state of Osun and have been productively engaged since the establishment of Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme in 2011. In this interview with SOLOMON ODENIYI, the Commandante of the scheme, Colonel Enibukun Oyewole (rtd) bears his mind among others on the ups and downs of the programme. Excerpts:

The Birth of OYES OYES, being the brain child of Governor Rauf A r e g b e s o l a was conceived as part of his six points integral action plan in 2005 while nurturing the ambition to contest the 2007 gubernatorial election where he promised to take in 20,000 unemployed youths and engage them profitably in his first 100 days in office.

When he got his mandate on the 26th of November 2010, within 98 days of the administration, he was able to launch the OYES scheme where the first batch was admitted.

The •Col. Oyewole, OYES Commandante •A cross section of OYES trainers during their training programme. formation was as a result of the high rate of unemployment among youths when ethos is not likely to go and sleep after increase in education, experience and comparative studies to Rwanda, Kenya he was vying for the governorship 10am, perhaps, what is natural for him exposure. We try to expose our cadets and on and on. You will also find our position. He saw that the situation was to do is to find something productive to collaboration in the areas of serving cadets in many of our universities and not healthy for the state’s development to do again for the day. Many of our other agencies and receiving some extra higher institutions of learning. All these and since 2011 that the scheme was cadets have taken up this philosophy money, but above all, building their are geared towards making them a lunched; we have been able to do three that Mr Governor call MSI which is résumés to be able to meet requirements robust human being so that after the two more. Presently another set of 20,000 Multiple Sources of Income. By the time for experience, that is called years, they can stand on their own.

Effects On The State beneficiaries are undergoing training you are finished with the task each day, collaboration. This in some cases do not you must go and find something else to last more than six months and after that I will divide this into the tangible and and would be admitted. do and most cadets have keyed into this. they are likely to be disengaged but we intangible benefits. The tangible ones Criteria for Beneficiaries So, between the period of 11am and take them through existing are that the restlessness dominant The criteria are very simple. We first among youth has been considerably look at the international definition of a 5pm, I can assure you that those who programmes.

Existing Programmes The Cadets reduced. Also, we have some of our youth which gave it as those within the engaged themselves in something else cadets earning more money than the ages of 18-35. So anyone who wishes to are earning more than the N10,000 Are Taking Through There are array of activities spanning regular employees of any system engage as a Cadet must fall within the stipends given to them and that is the essence of the training they are exposed through all artisan works, agricultural because they have been taught how to stated age brackets and must have minimum of a secondary school leaving to. During this training, they are taught value chain, ICT and even allowing manage their income, some through something new and after the two years them to further in their education. You contributions, some through certificate.

You do not have to be an indigene of volunteer works, they will go and be would recall that Mr Governor sent cooperative, loans, they have been able to earn more money than whatever some cadets to Germany for encouraged to go and buy land and the state before you are admitted into Agricultural training, some went to build houses. Many of these young the scheme, all that is required is that they earn in OYES. Benefits Of The Scheme India and Pakistan for ICT and Info people are not just having lands but you must reside in the state. As I speak, It is one of the ways a youth can Geometric, some to Ghana for ICT have built their houses, these are just the there are people from 23 states other than Osun participating in the OYES render his services to the state and the among others. Many are now employed tangible things. Let me give a testimony generality of the community he lives in. into Adulawo Technology Village in of a cadets who is into the supply of scheme.

Also, as being said, a man is a Ilesa. Many went to Abuja for renewable cooking gas at Ife who now has a Misconception About the Scheme OYES is a volunteer scheme and by progressive being as he continues to energy training and there are business valued over N4 million. He started with taking bike to campus to international best practice, volunteer deliver gas, he is now an owner of his schemes may or may not earn you own pickup and three gas outlets. We money, but because we are quite aware also have Dr. Mofolake Kehinde, a PhD that the youths we are taking in as holder who was in OYES and was volunteers need stipend to buy the encouraged and shown the way and rudimentary items of living, they are given the opportunity to study at the paid N10,000 which many may think is University of Ilorin. small. However, majority of the I am not saying all my cadets are like volunteers only work for hours per day, that, there are still some we are between 7am and 10am. An able body labouring on but we hope that the that has gone through our trainings and is aware of the Omoluabi and Apalara •Continued on page 6

Majority of the volunteers only work for hours per day, between 7am and 10am. An able body that has gone through our trainings and is aware of the Omoluabi and Apalara ethos is not likely to go and sleep after 10am, perhaps, what is natural for him to do is to find something productive to do again for the day.

Birth Of OYES And Success Story In Osun FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

•Continued from page 5

successful ones will serve as sources of inspiration to others. A part of the tangible is that all our streets are clean, the inter and intra cities roads are well maintained, the verges on both side are well kept .

As for the intangible, first is the effect on the economy of the state. When there is a high velocity of money changing hands, the velocity of money is said to have increased and it is only the increase in the velocity of money that gives room for general prosperity of a community.

For example, if a man has N200 million and he keeps it to himself without exchanging hands, the money is of no use to anyone but the N200million earned by 20,000 of my cadets in a month at N10,000 each, what do you think they are going to do with it, will such cadet go to Lagos to party? No. He stays here and spends the money. The velocity assists in reducing poverty in the state.

Another instance of the intangible benefit is that of the National Bureau of Statistics declaration that Osun has 3% unemployment rate, the lowest in the whole federation. I am not saying it is only OYES that has made this possible, but the OYES scheme is a greater part of it. One reason being that cadets in OYES are not youth that are just standing aloof, they are a group of people that are affecting other youths that are not in OYES, the domino effects of what we are doing radiate to other youths in the state. If you look at the Social Security Investment Programmes in this state, OYES is part of the scheme as well as other programmes that are of benefit to youths, all these add up.

Talking about security, there are hardly armed robbery attack that has been successful in the state, as youths themselves are very wary of committing crime or doing anything that would put

them into trouble. This is because they are aware that what they are looking for they would be able to get it if they work.

Also, in the area of health, the indices of wellness has been far higher and better than many other States, this is because we are able to keep our streets clean which intrinsically have affected human beings.

I was the first parade commander that led parade for 20,000 OYES cadets in 2011 at Ede NYSC Camp. I was a Masters Degree holder searching for a job when I volunteered to join OYES Scheme in order to earn the monthly stipend of N10,000 and to serve my father land. I was patriotic and decided to maximize my potentials by contributing my own quota to the development of the State of Osun.

With my believe in the transformation agenda of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola in the area of Agriculture, I became the team leader and one of the pioneer member of Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural P r o g r a m m e (OREAP). I led a •Mofolake team of 35 cadets that compiled data base of registered farmers, conducted perimeter survey and validation of Mokore, Ago- owu and Iwo farm settlements. I also led a team that worked with the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning to validate the dilapidated buildings in all the Local Government in the state.

As a technocrat, I worked as an enumerator for O’School that validated the dilapidated structures in some

selected primary schools, compiled the database of all primary and secondary school students and also located sites for mega schools in some selected Local Government in the state of Osun.

Serving as an OYES cadet really transformed my life and I will forever be grateful to the Governor of Osun for paying my second year PhD session school fees.

Honestly, my story will not be complete without mentioning the values that OYES/OREAP program added to my life. The trainings and experience I got from OYES coupled with my qualifications was the added advantage that qualified me for my present job as the Head of Agric of my company.

I am a quintessential researcher with interest in Agricultural Extension systems reform, innovation and gender issues in Rural Development.

I am a member of Agricultural Extension Society of Nigeria (AESON) and a member of Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG Cluster 5).

Some of my research works have been published in reputable journals both local and international.

•OYES volunteers captured during their training in one of the traings centres in Osun yesterday.

As for the intangible, first is the effect on the economy of the state. When there is a high velocity of money changing hands, the velocity of money is said to have increased and it is only the increase in the velocity of money that gives room for general prosperity of a community.

How OYES Transformed My Life - Ex-Cadet, Mofolake Adeleke

Another benefit is that organizations have come to understudy the scheme on how it could serve as a template to solving the high rate of unemployment among youth. Take for example, many governors sent representatives to Osun in 2012/13 to come and study, with a view to establishing a scheme similar to this. We had representative from Niger, Zamfara, Rivers, Cross Rivers, Kwara, Ondo, Oyo among others. More than that was the World Bank which saw the relevance of OYES as the youth unemployment solution and after a lot of understudy, they came up with YESSO. From the name, it sounds similar and they are not bothered and they got over 36 million dollars to establish YESSO in states of the federation.

The Federal government under Goodluck Jonathan also came to understudy OYES and they started with YOUWIN, added SURE-P and other programmes. Under Muhammadu Buhari administration, the engagement of youth through NPOWER is a direct study and duplication of what OYES is doing. You might not consider this as benefits, yet, they have cumulatively made our youth robust.

The Ongoing Recruitment The recruitment is the fourth batch.

During the first batch 20,000 were admitted, second batch was a fill up only 2000 persons were taken in. 20,000 were admitted for the third batch and same number will be taken for the ongoing recruitment which the training has started on the 27th of August. We have had 42,000 cadets under our belt that have passed through the training of OYES. Over 250,000 applied in the first batch, 150,000 for the second, 75 for the third and over 80,000 have applied for the ongoing fourth batch.

The application is free and internet based, so there is no contact with anybody. After submitting your application electronically via our website, we automatically generate those who have degrees from higher institutions of learning. Why we do this is that whatever number of them we have will be deployed to school to teach, this being one of the recommendations given at the education summit in the state in 2011 which showed us the way to go in improving education without straining ourselves. Volunteers with

6

degrees will be taken to schools to help impact our pupils, it is not debatable.

However, we will carry out verification from our end to ascertain if truly an applicant possesses the degree. After this, we have bias for women as directed

by Mr Governor. The reasons are that there are more female than male in the state.

Allocation Of Cadets To Local Governments We allocate cadets to various local governments in the state by weighing the population as well as the land mass and the requirements in each council, with which we allocate the number of cadet that will go to each council.

What Is The Trainings Like?

The training lasts for 3 weeks. It is meant to break down the young people, mould them, make them responsible to be able to respond to simple instructions, be time conscious and be able to turn out decently. These are the basic requirements for any human being.

We also train them in consciousness, awareness, socially, culturally, economically which is class room based.

We have our instructors and our resource persons coming from various higher institutions, some of whom are doctors, professors and other responsible and innovative persons.

Their stay in classes is after they have had rudimentary parade training. They must also be aware of what it takes to live an attitudinal lives, what it takes to live an economic independent lives and how to become a successful entrepreneurs, these are the things we take them through.

Mechanism To Look After Disengaged Cadets?

I can assure you, if you go to higher institutions of learning, you will find participants of OYES that have been able to save up to further their studies. If you also check the artisans in the state, you find out that many who participated in the OYES scheme are doing well there.

Same can be said of ICT. I make bold to say that even in the armed forces in the country, you would find participants of the scheme. Many of them are in SSS. I know of two in the EFCC. Many are now farmers, if you go into the civil service both state and Federal level, they are there. Let me also tell you that 60% of the employment in SUBEB is allocated to OYES cadets, the same with TEPO. Greater than that is that OYES cadets are delights of employers, because they are discipline, time conscious, aware of themselves and their environments among others.

Challenges There have been lots of challenges and part of them is the ego of some of my cadets who are degree holders from premiere universities in the country.

They feel so big that earning a degree does not require them bending down to use their hands, but I usually give them an example that I am far older than them , I have more degrees than they do and I am not afraid to bend down to work.

If you have been in any of the OYES gathering, our battle cry is ‘OYES OYES’ and they respond by saying hardwork hardwork .While hard life will kill within a snap of the finger, with hardwork you will always get something to eat perhaps, you may not be rich but you will never lack anything.

What Other Challenges Do You Face?

The misconception is another one which I have earlier answered. Apart from that there are still a few percentage that are lagging behind in the progress March. We recognise them while we have the understanding that human beings cannot move at the same pace, we are being patient and tenacious with them and we remain passionate about their situations just as we are working hard to bring them up.

Orolu LG Embarks On High Court Building Construction 7

OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

Management of Orolu Local Government Council should put the facilities society to be better for it.

Area of Osun under the leadership of Honourable to good use, and the The Vice Chairman of Adekunle Benson has flagged off the construction judges should maximise the council, Hon. Toyin of a new High Court of Justice building sited in Ifon, their potentials for the Adekola, the leader, Hon the headquarters of the council.

The Olufon of Ifon Muydeen called on the Oroluland, Oba chairmen of various local Almaroof Magbagbeola, government areas in the

By Sikiru Obarayese Special Adviser to the state to emulate Orolu Residents of Alare and Abidogun communities in governor on Innovation, local government and Science and Technology, assist in the renovation of Ota-Efun area of Osogbo went into wild Jubilation Mr Muydeen Olateju existing court buildings as a result of the new transformer installed and were all part of the in their areas which are energized by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution historic occasion, a dilapidated and even company (IBEDC) penultimate Sunday.

The community made Development Project statement by the Media erect new ones to Assistant to the complement the efforts of up of nine zones had, for (CSDP).

Mrs. Funmi Abokedechairman, Mr Alao the government in the past two years bringing development embarked on a self help led CSDP was on hand to Waheed said. financial According to the and justice closer to the project and also solicited provide the financial assistance of assistance which led to the Chairman, the project people.

Community and Social He said the judiciary procurement, installation which he described as infrastructure revolution in the judiciary was to create conducive environment for effective administration of justice in the state through provision of suitable infrastructure and essential tools.

The chairman noted that with the project, justice will be brought closer to the grassroots and justice would neither be delayed nor denied.

He further stated that the project would complement the efforts of the state government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and effectively serve the administration of justice at the grassroots.

•Cross section of Members of the Zone 7 Community, Alare/Abidogun, Osogbo.

“The state of Osun has one of the most vibrant judiciary in the country, which became possible Chairman, Atakumosa East Local Government Onigbogi to Owada because successive Area, Iperindo, State of Osun, Prince Oluwafemi “This gesture has given administrations in the Kujembola has reiterated his commitment to banish the present state devoted attention to poverty and reduce rural migration to urban centers administration the rest of judicial officers’ welfare, through massive development. mind that it has touched provision of befitting According to a rehabilitation of Iperindo many lives through structures for work, and statement issued by the main Market with massive development creating a functional and council’s Head of Social renovation of the stalls which has boosted their dynamic legal system. Development and and lock up shops and income through farm “So, our effort is meant to Information, Mr Z. Oni, the expansion of the produce. serve justice and Information Officer, market, which has “The dredging of administration in the Adekola Aderonke, the attracted market men stream that links the local community and chairman made the and women to the market government Secretariat complement the efforts at statement during the so as to boost the which has facilitated free the state level”, the inspection of the road internally generated flow of water is also part chairman quoted. undergoing grading, revenue of the council. of the achievements of He further expressed bulldozing “The administration this and administration hope that the measures r e h a b i l i t a t i o n , has embarked on grading Prince Kujembola and would help to enhance completely graded roads of roads from reserve members of the the dignity of the state linking towns and junction to Alonge and to parliament with the judiciary and promote communities and some Cyril, from Cyril to cooperation of the efficiency.

Arowojobe, Camp 1, council workers. other projects.

He therefore reiterated 2, Alaaka, The council chairman Camp While rounding up his government commitment expressed satisfaction Adeyanju, Ago Ikirun, visitations to the main to bring justice to with the state of work Laabopo. Others are local government the doorstep and do all done on the bulldozing Ogundele, Sokoto, Secretariat, he reiterated that would be necessary and grading while the to ensure that judiciary in residents of the area gave Osun is not just kudos to the empowered to deliver its management for the The Vice Chairman, Ayedaade South Local Council mandate as an massive development independent arm, but which has positively Development Area, Orile-Owu, High Chief Sikiru also ranks among the best affected their lives and Oyeyemi has been installed as the Otunba of Araromi-Owu land. in the country. businesses.

The special adviser to The Olowu-in-Council Government Area of the The council’s the governor on management team led approved the nomination State of Osun.

Innovation, Science and by prince Kujembola, and installation recently, Oyeyemi attended St. Technology, Hon Olateju according to the which took place at the Peter’s Anglican Primary statement, had earlier market square, the heart School, Orile-Owu and The Apostolic modern carried out the grading of of the town.

Oyeyemi was born into School, Orile-Owu for his township roads which are, Idado, Odogbo, Eti the royal family of Pa primary and post primary Oni, Ipole to Ilaye, Orita (Alhaji) Yussuf Ayoola education respectively.

Oyeyemi and Madam He later proceeded to The Merin to Faro.

Amudat Oyeyemi (Iya The statement also Elepo) both of blessed Polytechnic Ibadan.

He later joined politics stressed that the memory, of Ejemu’s and served as Councilor administration has also Compound, Orile-Owu, representing Ward 11, in embarked on Ayedaade Local the then Ayedaade Local

Community In Jubilation Over New Transformer Rafiu Durodola as well as the supervisory councilor for works, Hon. Anthony Akinola commended the

project and promised to collaborate with contractors to ensure the completion of the project.

and energizing of the transformer.

One of the community leaders, who headed the Community Project Monitoring Committee (CPMC), the apex body of the other committees, Mr Murtala Agboola said, residents had long for a new transformer because being a developing area, new houses are being constructed thereby

his commitment to the welfare of the staff members and promised to create conducive working environment for them to do their jobs effectively.

He also thanked the union leaders in the local government under the leadership of Comrade Adekola Aderonke for their prompt support at all time for their role in maintaining industrial harmony in the council.

The chairman then assured the staff that he will never betray their trust.

He also used the opportunity to appreciate members of the council’s parliament for their support.

increasing the demand for electricity supply.

He said, intermittent supply of electricity is usually the hallmark of new areas and the areas are either in perpetual darkness or the votage is so low, that it is meaningless.

According to him, collectively, residents in the affected areas decided to help themselves by mobilizing the little resources they could muster and got a large chunk from CSDP. He explained that the CSDP requested the communities to pay 10 per cent counterpart funding while supplying the rest.

“The agency, ensured that due diligence is applied at the three tranches at which cheques are issued. Meetings are usually held between the communities and the agency officials to educate them on how to judiciously apply any money disbursed.

“Failure to comply with the agency’s guideline attracts severe sanction and unless that is done subsequent payment are not made.

“I thank the Lord for using us to achieve this wonderful feat. It has always been my desire to make an impact in any community I live. The journey which started with my visit to the corporate office of the CSDP at Old Governor’s office, Osogbo on May 17th 2016 finally culminated in the energizing of the transformer on August 19th 2018", Agboola stressed.

Meanwhile, artisans and petty businesses that have gone into comatose have bounced back into action.

Welders, hairdressers, fashion designers, and related businesses that make use of electricity are now happy with the situation of things.

Government Gbongan, under the administration of Hon. Olusola Adebisi from 2004-2007. He is a grassroot politician, a great businessman, and philanthropist. He is the Chairman, Managing Director, Adebayo Golden profile filling station both at Araromi Owu and Orile Owu. He is also the Managing Director, Opeyemi Produce store Araromi-Owu, and he is currently the ViceChairman, Ayedaade South LCDA Orile Owu. Other chiefs installed

alongside with him were, Chief Mathew Oladokun as Balogun AraromiOwu, Chief Rasheed Ajayi Bababunmi as Ejemu of Araromi-Owu, Chief Ganiyu Lawal Fasona as Ekarun of Araromi Owu. Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion were the Executive Chairman, Ayedaade South LCDA, Hon. Azeez Quadri; Leader of the parliament, Hon. (Mrs.) Sola Ogunfolaju; other parliamentarians; Council Manager, Mr. A. Adewusi, among others.

Atakunmosa East Embarks On Road Grading, Channelisation Of Water Ways

Ayedaade South LCDA Vice Chair Bags Chieftaincy Title

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OSUNDEFENDER

www.osundefender.org

A Cocktail Of Recent Happenings FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

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9

Alhaji Ibrahim Ayodele, Wife Markaz Taohiyyat-L-Islamiyyah School Of Arabic Studies Graduates Students Gafar Raji And Shukurat Suleiman Tie Nuptial Knot premises of the Ansar-ul-deen Markaz Taohiyyat-l- Area, Osogbo has graduated studies.

Turbanned For Islamic Titles Islamiyyah School of Arabic six students who have At the Walimot-l-Quran Central Mosque, Sabo Area, and Islamic Studies, Sabo successfully completed their programme held at the Osogbo one of those

•Alhaji Ibrahim Ayodele (2nd right), his wife, Alhaja Risikat (2nd left) and others honourees during the turbaning programme. and well wishers of the honourees who came

By Olushola Aderinto around to witness the event.

Alhaji Ibrahim Ayodele of Balogun Notable Muslim clerics were also in Kujenyo compound, Osogbo, State of Osun attendance to be part of the groundbreaking and his wife, Alhaja Riskat Ibrahim have event.

•Abdul-Rahmon Abdul-Hammed (left) and other graduands. Inset is the proprietor, Ustaz Nurudeen Ibrahim. been turbanned as Baba Adinni and Arowo Speaking at the programme, Alhaji Sadinni respectively of the Morkaz Dahawat Ayodele said he was happy to be so Wal-Irshad Al-Arobiyy Al-Islamiyy Central honoured with the title, saying, it has Mosqu, Osogbo. encouraged him to be committed to the The event held at the Mosque premises promotion of Islamic religion. located at Ifelodun Community, Beside While thanking Allah for counting him Akede Iyaloja, Oke Baale Area, Osogbo worthy, he also thanked the Chief Imam of where the duo and other were turbanned for the Mosque, Sheik Kamiludeen Mohammed Islamic titles.

Raji, popularly known as Almiskeen Billahi The event was a convergence of family for giving him the opportunity. members, old and new friends, associates

graduated was AbdulRahmon Abdul-Hammed from Ijabe, a town in OdoOtin North Local Council Development Area of the state.

It was a moment of joy for the graduands, parents and family members who came around to be part of the ceremony.

The proprietor of the Arabic school, Ustaz Nurudeen Ibrahim was full of gratitude to parents, Islamic clerics and well wishers who attended the programme and made it a worthwhile event.

Also, father of one of the graduands, Mr. AbdulRahmon Bamidele said he was happy that his son was able to complete his Islamic studies and graduated, just as he appreciated everyone for their presence to make the event successful.

•Professor W. Fakunle presenting marriage certificate to the cople after their marriage ceremony.

By Olushola Aderinto The town of Ipee in Kwara State was the host community of dignitaries recently as Gafar Raji and Shukurat Sueiman tied their nuptial knot.

Venue of the event, Ipee Townhall was filled to capacity when family members, friends and associates of the couple assembled to rejoice with them.

During their engagement, the groom’s family performed the engagement rite by bringing forward the necessary items requested by brides family, presented same to them in love.

Subsequently during the Nikkah

programme, Chief Imam of the town, Alhaji Abubakar Lawal advised the new couple to be in unity and build their home on love, while presenting the marriage certificate to the couple.

Professor W.M Fakunle also urged the couple to believe in God and themselves.

Afterwards, the reception was full of fun, as the couple cut their wedding to the admiration of all.

The chairman of the reception Pharmacist Gboyega Oladele urged the couple to stay in love, as he prayed that God will bless them with loving children.

The couple thanked well wishers, most especially their families for their support both financially and morally.

Osun O’Ambulance GM Buried Amidst Tears •A cross section of clerics at the programme.

•AbdulHamid (middle) and his parents at the event.

By Olusola Aderinto

•A cross section of guests at the event.

It was a sad day in the family of Dr. Soji Akinloye, the General Manager, Osun Ambulance Scheme, as he was buried at Onibueja area of Ido Osun amidst tears.

One of his allies, Mr. Oluwole Oladejo described the death of the O’Ambulance boss as sudden and shocking.

According to him, “I was with him yesterday and we were joking and catching fun, infact he told me to bring something •The bride and groom cutting their wedding cake during the reception programme. for him when I informed him that I was traveling to Ibadan but I received a call while I was in Ibadan that Soji is dead, I never believe it not until I saw him laying dead myself”.

During the burial service Programme held in his house, the Assistant Pastor in charge of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, House of Joy Parish, Pastor Emmanuel Idowu said, the death was not the end of the deceased but just a transition, because he gave his life to Christ.

He said, the late Akinloye just started another journey in life, as he urged the family and friends not to mourn over his death.

The cleric advised everyone in attendance to put their way in order, saying, “we should always have it in mind that one day our end will come; life is a priviledge and death can come at anytime”.

The remains of the late Dr. Akinloye was subsequently committed mother earth.

OUR SOCIAL REGISTER IS OPEN FOR YOUR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES TO BE MADE PUBLIC

•Another cross section of guests at the event.

•Mrs. folasade Akinloye wife of the deseased and the children during the burial programme of her husband

Spaces are available for your anniversaries such as weddings, house-warming and chieftaincy title ceremonies among others for your take. To take advantage of this, you can reach out to Murtala, 08023280935, Kazeem 08062207954 and Nike on 07032594744 Let the public know what you are doing.

Aregbesola Calls For Preservation Of Yoruba History FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

OSUN @ 27:

history of some major

By Sola Jacobs towns like, Ila-Orangun, Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun has again Erin-Ijesha, Ile-Ife, Iwo, called for preservation of Yoruba history and Ilesha, Osogbo, Ikirun, culture.

Ejigbo, Ede, Ikire, OrileOwu, Okuku, Irabiji and Aregbesola made the contemporary times. call at the presentation of He said the book Ijebu-Jesa. historical towns and examines documented “The interesting stories events book to mark the 27th anniversary of the creation of Osun.

The programme was As residents of Osun celebrate the 27th year of organised by Department of Social, Grassroots the state’s creation, a lawmaker in the state House Mobilisation and of Assembly, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye has Guidance, office of the hailed the government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola governor. for its outstanding performance.

Represented by the Oyintiloye (Obokun i n f r a s t r u c t u r a l Commissioner for Information and APC) made this known development.” in Osogbo, where he “Of course, our past Strategy, Mr Adelani Baderinwa, the governor described the outgoing leaders have done their said his administration government of Ogbeni best in stabilising this was not only committed Aregbesola as the best in state and making it one of the best in the country. to providing the history of the state.

The lawmaker who is However, I give kudos to infrastructure and socioeconomic development the Chairman, House the creativity of the in the state but also Committee on Ogbeni Aregbesola-led dedicated to promotion Information and Strategy All Progressives of Yoruba value and pointed out that the Congress’ government culture. governor has been able to for inventing the modern He said the invent the modern Osun Osun we are proud of. manifestation of such through people centred “History and indeed was the documentation policies and solid the good people of the of history of ancient developments. state will forever be towns and cities in the He said, “It is a thing thankful to him for his state. of joy to celebrate and selfless services in terms Aregbesola said that infrastructure, the historical book was a thank God for bringing of and compendium of us this far as people for empowerment the past 27 years, it is upliftment of our dear historical and geographical facts as well indeed an uncommon state.” as cultural and favour for our noble state Oyintiloye, who a d m i n i s t r a t i v e to have achieved this far mentioned some of narratives, both of in terms of all round A r e g b e s o l a ancient and human and government’s projects

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org

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of these towns and cities might have become familiar to us, but the novelty of these stories is most apparent to someone hearing them for the first time.”

“The entire story of

mankind has come to us from individual voices from the past.

“Because there was no documentation, our history have been distorted, or even erased, and the younger

generations have been detached from their history. “ And people detached from their history will be completely alienated”, the governor said.

like the school feeding programme, the OYES, O’Ambulance to arrest cases of health emergencies, and construction of school structures for students

among others, he then urged all eligible voters across the state to vote for APC in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

He stressed, “As we move closer to September

22 gubernatorial election, I urge us all to return a progressives government for the continuation of the good work. We must defy any attempt to take us back. We must remain focused to the goals of the founding fathers of our dear state.”

“Like you know that the APC is filled with resourceful personalities, we have again presented to you, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola who is a factor in the success of this outgoing administration to come on board and consolidate on what we have achieved through Aregbesola.

“Oyetola’s rich political profile, academic qualifications and professional exposure rates him higher above the candidates of other parties. Like you did to Ogbeni Aregbesola, I urge you all to vote Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola”.

Lawmaker Hails Osun Govt, Drums Support For Oyetola

•Aregbesola

PERSPECTIVE

The state of Osun since creation has come under various leaders from different parties with each doing their bits to transform the state. At 27, SOLOMON ODENIYI takes a look at these leaders since the commencement of the 4th republic and their achievements.

Created from the old Oyo State on 27th August 1991 during the regime of former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, along eight other states such as ; Kogi, Taraba, Kebbi, Jigawa, Abia, Enugu and Delta.

The state has gone under military as well as civilian rules. Those who ruled during the military era include Col Leo Segun Ajiborisa, Navy Commander Anthony Udofia, Col Anthony Obi and Col. Theophilus Bamigboye, while Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke was elected the first civilian governor of the state and ruled for 22 months before the late Gen Sani Abacha seized power from the then civilian regime.

The state is one of the few states in the country that has, not just a political party holding sway at the helms of affairs since the return of democratic rule in 1999. Chief Bisi Akande ruled under the Alliance for Democracy AD, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola the incumbent who won under the platform of theAction Congress of Nigeria (ACN) which metamorphose into APC. With his days in office numbered, Aregbesola will remain the only governor to have successfully completed a two-term tenure in the state. Chief Bisi Akande held office for four years losing his return ticket in 2003 to Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola who governed between May 29, 2003 and November 27, 2010 when the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan nullified his 2007 re-election and declared the incumbent governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, as the winner of the

Celebrating Osun At 27

election.

However, the state has gone through various forms of transformation from each administration, for instance, the Chief Bisi Akande’s administration was referred to as the chief architect of the development of the state. The construction of the state secretariat, Abere and the Office of the Governor, among others, were built by his administration with other various developmental projects. His successor,

Oyinlola, also has to his credit the establishment of the state o w n e d university with six campuses sited across the state’s six zones where no fewer than 8 2 5 academic and nonacademic staff were employed a m o n g others.

With few months to complete his two-term of eight years in office, Aregbesola has been hailed to have brought about unprecedented development to the state through his various ‘O’projects which are targeted at reducing unemployment, enhancing sanitary condition of the state and making the state less dependent on revenue from federal government despite tight fiscal condition of the state, especially during his second term in office.

OYES for instance, has profitably engaged over 42,000 youths in the state

which has reduced the restiveness famous among youth, making the state the most peaceful in the federation, a rating by the Nigeria Peace Index in April 2018. Another one is the National Bureau of Statistics declaration of the state of having the lowest rate of unemployment in the state.

The state in terms of infrastructural development has veered off from what it used to be known for. The State-ofart school structures for elementary, middle and high schools dot the state, massive roads constructed; few among these are the workers drive, Chief Bisi Akande Trumpet Interchange at Gbongan, Oba Adesoji Aderemi Osogbo Byepass road, overhead bridges, construction of rural roads, procurement of security gadgets, including 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers, 125 Security Patrol Vans among several others development are to the credit of Ogbeni Aregbesola’s administration.

The state, despite its young age has recorded more development than some older states, particularly more under the administration of Aregbesola within the last eight years and it’s indeed positioned for greater landmark achievements than some of its counterpart in years to come with a lot of its resources yet untapped‘.

The growing concern among major stakeholders is how to ensure the continuity of the ongoing developmental strides in the state under Aregbesola, which they believe could be made possible if a government that has the same commitment for development emerges in the September 22 governorship election.

Osun 2018: Adeoti Cautions Against Violence FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

By Sikiru Obarayese

NEWS

would be participating in the electoral process on the need to shun violence, but rather allow

the spirit of brotherhood which will guarantee peace to prevail on the election day,” he stated.

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org

11

While congratulating all for witnessing another anniversary, he enjoined them to continue to be

law-abiding and be optimistic that there is light at the end of the state’s political tunnel.

the founding fathers of the state.

He said, “It was wrong for the party to pick its gubernatorial candidate from the Osun Central Senatorial District.

“This was the reason for my decision to work with the PDP, which has picked its candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke, from the Osun West Senatorial District to win the election scheduled for September 22, 2018”.

He added that he could have gone to another party with a candidate from the west but for Adeleke’s acceptability among the masses.

Receiving the Ikire born politician, the state Chairman of the party, Hon Soji Adagunodo lauded Babalola for returning to the party, describing the rate of defections to PDP as a plus for the party.

He said, ”I am happy that our leader, Chief Peter Babalola is coming back to the PDP, the house he joined other

stakeholders of our party to build more than a decade ago.

“He is joining us today with his teeming supporters across all the 30 local government areas of the state. He has come back to his house.

“He is teaming up with us to take over power from the APC. At Ila Orangun, on Thursday, we received more than 5, 000 APC members into the PDP. This is a gathering storm shattering the APC in Osun.”

The South West PDP Deputy Chairman, Yomi Akinwonmi assured Babalola of the right and privileges due to him as a leader in the party.

Senator Ademola Adeleke, the governorship candidate of the party, the South West PDP Deputy Chairman, Yomi Akinwonmi, and the Osun State Chairman, Soji Adagunodo, among other top party leaders received Babalola back to the party.

Why I Rejoined PDP - Peter Babalola

Governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in the September 22 election in Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, has cautioned electorates and political parties participating in the election not to see it as a do-ordie affair.

By Solomon Odeniyi He stated this through and stakeholders of Osun a statement signed on his Project, the need for One of the governorship aspirants under the All behalf by the media prayers and sober Progressives Congress (APC), and former director of his campaign reflections cannot be Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, organization (MACO), underestimated.

Elder Peter Babalola, has disclosed why he defected Mr Kayode Agbaje, in “This is in view of the to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). his congratulatory fact that the governorship It would be recalled message to the people of He alleged the ruling Osun on the celebration election in the state is just Babalola left the PDP for party of imposing the of the 27th Anniversary few weeks away,” Alhaji the APC in May 2010 as party’s flag bearer on the of the creation of the Adeoti stressed. a result of what he “I just want to described as impunity in people which he said state. negated the principle of According to him, admonish our people, the party then. equity and justice laid by there is need for especially those who candidates that will participate in the electoral process to shun violence and allow the spirit of brotherhood which will guarantee peace to prevail on the election day.

According to the ADP flagbearer, the celebration of the creation of Osun also calls for serious sober reflection and prayers on the part of all genuine lovers and stakeholders of Osun Project.

He noted that the need for prayers and sober reflection becomes necessary in view of the fact that the governorship election in the state is few •A cross section of passengers boarding the free Omoluabi free train ride by Osun weeks away.

Government For their return trip to Lagos at Osogbo railway terminus coporation “As one of the lovers after Eid el Kabir celebration.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

SUMMIT FRANCIS EZEDIUNO engages DORCAS IDIBIE, the initiator and founder of IODA Organisation Model on the proposed Economic Summit slated to hold on September 5, 2018 in Ile-Ife, State of Osun.

Creating Awareness For Entrepreneurial Development Through IODA Summit Dorcas is a Multi-sector enthusiast with interests in Business, Social Enterprise and Policies. Her enthusiasm so far has been expressed passionately through voluntary participation in aiding the visions of leaders towards their people’s welfare and overall growth.

This has translated to over two years of experience, assisting and engaging the visions of leaders and led her to initiate the IODA organization models, with its pilot project in Osun aimed at engaging leaders and people on entrepreneurial possibilities via IODA Economic Summit to be held in the state, particularly with election getting closer to elect leaders that would steer the ship of the state next.

The Summit Keens on her mission for the concepts of economic development and strategy as a tool for Nation branding, Dorcas in a chat with OSUN DEFENDER said, the summit is all about raising awareness for different programmes in Nigeria. “It is about bringing together the people and the leaders to rob minds concerning the economy of the state and the nation as a whole. We are starting on the 5th of September, 2018 in Ile-Ife. “It is aimed at having entrepreneurs and investors talk to leaders in Osun and Nigeria as a whole about some challenges they face and what informs their decision as regards profitability and improvement of the economy, as well as what people are saying when it comes to their businesses.

“The economy of a state or nation is its engine room. It is important to look into the happenings of business in the country and in getting opportunities that will bring about boosting the economy of Osun.

Partnership In aiding entrepreneurs and investors to achieve

One thing that will give entrepreneurs and investors confidence in the government is how investment opportunities are promoted.

•DORCAS

their goals, see how they can be helped to rebrand their businesses and increase profitability, Dorcas said, IODA is hoping to partner with the incoming government, while banks will also be involved.

Start ups

Dorcas noted that one of the facilitators at the summit is a business consultant that helps startups.

“His name is Toyin Batel. We are hoping he will be able to put the programme in a context where leaders will understand what people actually want and clamouring for especially startups.

She said over 50% of entrepreneurs in Ile-Ife are aware of this programme, “we have reached out to monarchs, students of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), and entrepreneurs are also involved. We are starting from Ile-Ife. Politicians and government functionaries too will be involved.

On how it would change the nomenclature of the state as a civil service state, Dorcas said, the essence of the programme is to bring to awareness the business opportunities in the state, saying the programme will create a level playing field for investors and entrepreneurs and address how the government and financial institutions can help overcome challenges that have limited some certain investments all these while.

It is her believe that when there are strategies put in place to help entrepreneurs, they will be able to structure their organizations in tune with big picture and succeed.

She spoke on how the programme will benefit the financiers and the idealists, saying, “We are hoping that the government will be able to create another platform to help startups and for those that have ideas but not financial resources, we will encourage those with money to invest it in them so as to bring about good profits”.

To IODA, one thing that will give entrepreneurs and investors confidence in the government is how investment opportunities are promoted and when good minds come together, something good can come out of it and the state economy will grow.

Bowen University Gets New Vice-Chancellor 12

FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

The Governing Council of the Bowen University, Iwo, State of Osun has appointed Professor Joshua Ogunwole as the new ViceChancellor of the University established by Nigeria Baptist Convention.

Professor Ogunwole, Chancellor who was who is a professor of Soil unveiled during a Science, was appointed service at the University from the Ahmadu Bello Chapel promised to lift University, Zaria, the standard of the Kaduna State. He Private University from succeeded Prof. Mathew where he met it.

Ojo, whose five years The new Vicetenure has expired.

Chancellor said the According to a University would not statement made relent on its efforts in available to OSUN producing Godly and D E F E N D E R competent leaders who correspondent in would transform every Osogbo, the new Vice- sector in the country and

OSPOLY Post-UTME Screening Holds September 3

Screening of Applicants for the Post UTME for 2018/19 academic session of the Osun State Polytechnic Iree has been slated to hold on Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th September, 2018.

This is contained in a applicants can still obtain release signed by the the Application Form for Registrar of the the HND sold for a sum institution, Mr. B. M. of N10,000 and Screening Salawu.

Card N3,000 only, while The Registrar also that of the Post -UTME disclosed that the CBT Screening Card is also Screening of the Higher available for a sum National Diploma N2,000 at the OSPOLY (HND) has been slated Microfinance Bank, Iree for 5th and 6th or its branches at September, 2018.

Ayetoro, Osogbo and According to the Isokun Roundabout, statement, prospective Ilesa.

other part of the world.

He said, “Bowen University is a Christian institution of higher learning with Excellence and Godliness as motto.

It has a mission to bring

forth the next generations of leaders with Godliness, high performance, discipline and stronger ethical character, we cannot fail God.”

OAU Suspends Six Students Over Alleged Involvement In Cultism

By Kabiru Adejumo Management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, on Wednesday, announced suspension of six students of the institution, for alleged involvement in cultism.

According to a release Damilola Ayomide, by the Registrar of the Matriculation number university, Mrs Magaret EGL /2016 /075 and Omosule, which was Davis Jesulayomi made available to Olakunle, Matriculation journalists, the students number EGL / 2014 / were said to have 207. confirmed their The statement reads, membership of a secret “It will be recalled that on cult in the course of Monday, 2nd July, 2018, police investigation. an information was The affected students received by the are, Onyekwusi Praise University Management C h i n e m e r e m , that two students of the Matriculation number institution, against their ASE / 2014/218; Ojo will, were forcefully Abiodun Olamide, initiated into cultism Matriculation number outside the University MCB /2012 /149; Ude campus.

John, Matriculation “Promptly, the number ASE /2015 /362; security Unit of the Oladoye Tobi Olakunmi, University swung into Matriculation number action and, after a EGL /2014/ 383; Ayeyi thorough preliminary

Defections Into The Oblivion

“I commend the boldness of those that ran away from darkness onto light; but those from light onto darkness, I regret” anonymous.

The above sums up my opinion about the gale of defections taking place in our political stratosphere.

Months before the last primaries and while his aids in the pen profession were in their worries for inability to read properly his “body language” on whom to support, the Oracle (used reservedly for the purpose of this submission) himself had predicted what we all see today. The aids had assembled in their usual conclave where they normally have minds rubbed on burning state issues and would later deliberate with him, the Oracle, to have him say his mind or shed further lights. On this particular occasion, the pen aids desperately wanted to be put into the inner thoughts of their principal, (the Oracle), concerning his favourite for the APC candidate in the oncoming gubernatorial election in the state. On this particular occasion, the Oracle made no pretence as to the fact that the party would have the final say. He was unequivocal about the supremacy of the party. He further enlightened, accurately predicting though, that it is normal for people to feel aggrieved when the tide does not favour them and their aspirations; that people will be pacified but those who couldn’t be will inevitably leave. He told them that as an experienced politician himself who had tasted victory and suffered defeat at different times, you cannot stop those who have made up their minds to leave not to.

The somber atmosphere in the meeting court was palpable that a drop of the pin would have been heard.

At the time of making that statement, not many, probably including the Oracle himself, has given thought to ‘direct’ or ‘indirect’ primaries. I’m dead sure that many would believe that reference to “the party” means the decision makers or the top hierarchy of the party. How wrong. Today, we are now very well aware that “the Party” means every card-carrying member of the party. Sir, Ma, nothing could be more democratic. The ruling party has brought a new meaning to what we used to understand as “party”.

They said Isiaka is an import from Lagos, just like the incumbent Rauf, but I have only one prayer for them because there’s no family in Yorubaland which does not have a “representative” in Lagos. May your kinsman in Lagos return home one day to be denied his right based on his or her sojourn in Lagos.

Despite what some would want us believe, we now know that the direct primary is another name for true democratic choice of candidates by political parties.

The decision of the APC hierarchy to adopt the direct primary, which is novel, at the very last hour, was seen as a coup de grace by some of the prominent aspirants who had relied heavily on their pre-planned joker to clinch the ticket. Many said that the joker is money, but I don’t know. One thing for sure is that it was a death-blow too hard to survive and so, they had to jump ship to the other side, irrespective of whether that other side is hot or cold, deep or shallow water.

investigation, 12 students of the University were apprehended and handed over to the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Police to assist with further professional investigation.

“After the investigation, therefore, the University, on 20th August, 2018, received a detailed report of the Police findings, where it was confirmed that six students of the University had admitted their membership of proscribed groups, thus breaching their Matriculation Oath, Code of Conduct and other pertinent University regulations.

“Accordingly, and in accordance with the relevant statutes, the affected students have been suspended pending the outcome of the

investigation by the appropriate Students’ Disciplinary Committee.

“Management hereby uses this medium to assure the University Community and all other stakeholders, most especially the student populace that adequate measures have been put in place to secure lives and property and ensure a peaceful environment for all residents on the University estate.

“As it is the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to protect the University from persons with criminal intention. However, members of the University Community are advised to be vigilant at all times and report any suspicious activities which could undermine the peaceful coexistence of members of the University Community”.

Truth Of The Matter with

AYEKOOTO ayoakinola444@gmail.com

They said Isiaka is an import from Lagos, just like the incumbent Rauf, but I have only one prayer for them because there’s no family in Yorubaland which does not have a “representative” in Lagos. May your kinsman in Lagos return home one day to be denied his right based on his or her sojourn in Lagos.

They also said he has close affinity with a party leader. To this I also pray that their affinity to anyone that matters in the society be an impediment to achieving their aspiration.

They claim that the wealth of our state will be smuggled to Lagos. Let us look at it this way: How possible is it for a river to flow backward? Lagos has had a long history of good leadership coupled with the advantages as a former federal capital city, a port city as well as an economic nerve centre all of which give her strong economic advantages which no other state could ever enjoy. Does it make sense to them that a river will ever steal water from a well? If anything, the reverse should have been the case.

For those who have decided to jump ship on account of not clinching the party ticket. Sorry, the decision not to give the ticket to you is not that of Buhari or Oshiomhole. Neither is it that of Tinubu, Aregbesola or Famoodun. It is the decision of that man you’ve neglected for so long, that woman whom you think isn’t that important. That elderly man you treat as ordinary number, even though he reverence you with your adopted epithet after your throwing at him and her some dirty naira notes which wouldn’t even buy him or her a loaf. You think his representative (delegate) will give you what you need? This time, foul!

That man or woman that decided your fate on the ….. of ….. is the “ordinary” card-carrying party-man and woman who trekked in the scorching sun and in the drizzles of the rains to queue to decide your fate.

And his and her new name is “The Party”, according to the new APC, the true democratic party.

Osun HIV Prevalence Among Lowest In Nigeria - OSACA FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

Osun State Agency for the Control of Aids (OSACA), has stated that the agency in collaboration with other stakeholders have been able to reduce the HIV prevalence in the state from the peak of 4.3% in 2001 to 1.6% in 2014, which is among the lowest in the country.

The Executive Secretary of the

agency, Dr. Mansur Bello stated this during the awareness campaign on HIV/AIDS, free counseling and testing at Ifon Osun, the headquarters of Orolu Local Government Area of the State of Osun.

Bello, who was represented by the Procurement Officer, OSACA, Mr. Julius Oyeleke, congratulated the

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organisers of the programme for deeming it fit to strengthen HIV response at the community level, saying the gesture would not only increase the awareness of HIV/AIDS but would also assist in reducing the transmission of HIV in Orolu Local Government.

‘Self-medication’ A Result Of Non-restriction - Health Expert

•Chairman, Orolu Local Government, Hon. Benson Adekunle (2nd right), representative of the Executive Secretary OSACA, Mr. Julius Oyeleke (2nd left) and representative of Project Manager OSACA, Mr. Adeyinka Adeleke.

Self medication which is ingestion and intake of drugs without prescription from a qualified medical doctor has been described as a prevalent dangerous trend.

This was the view of Dr. Victor Nwabudike, a Consultant Family Dentist during a chat recently, saying these medicines are often referred to as Over The Counter (OTC) or Non-Prescription drugs and are found in pharmacies, supermarkets and other outlets which includes hotels, motor parks and garages.

According to the medical expert, in Nigeria, abundance of these drugs in an open markets without restriction has caused problems for many and the culture of abuse would take time to eradicate.

He said: “These drugs can also be sold by the roadside, on the bus and by hawkers. On the other hand, drugs prescribed by doctors are referred to as prescription products”.

Nwabudike described as surprising that many people still see no problem with self-medication adding, “the question remained, why people would still engage in self-medication despite being aware of the danger it poses to their health?

On the reason people still self medicate, Dr. Nwabudike stressed that taking of drugs without prescription of a doctor occurred for a number of reasons, which include “aiming for a reduction in the time and cost of clinical consultation, simply trivializing illnesses.

“It could also be due to personal insecurities and fear of job loss due to diagnosed diseases, mental illness, quick relief from pain, depression or even ignorance”.

He maintained that administering drugs without the input of a qualified medical doctor posed a lot of danger to the person involved in it and that it is now becoming a dangerous habit amongst majority of Nigerian youths.

“Self-medication might seem right at first, but one needs to consider the potential side effects of such uninformed actions. It can lead to drug addiction, allergy, habituation, worsening of ailment, incorrect diagnosis and dosage, or even disability and pre-mature death.

“This is the reason why people must avoid self-medication at all cost, because it is also a ticking time bomb waiting to explode.

“We should not confuse drug abuse and self medication. They are two

different experiences. For anybody who wants to get out of the habit of self medication, there are simple steps to be

taken and these include, consulting a qualified medical doctor, seeking counsel from a Psychiatric and help from people around, learning from other people’s mistake, attending a rehabilitation programme and self motivation.

“A point to note is that pharmacists also play a huge role in the issue of self medication. In a haste to make a lot of money, some pharmacists encourage people to buy their drugs without a doctor’s prescription.

“In some cases, they even prescribe drugs for their customers. This is wrong because the pharmacist is charged with the duty of dispensing drugs. It is the doctor who prescribes these drugs”.

Dr. Nwabudike advised that governments at various levels and other regulatory bodies should supervise the sale of drugs by wrong people in the country and they should ensure that they confiscate any drug sold on roadsides or by hawkers.

Overcrowding, taboos, superstitions and lack of good nutrition have been attributed to an increase in the prevalence of measles cases in some parts of the State of Osun.

Mrs. Esther Oke, a retired Chief Nursing Officer during a chat with OSUN DEFENDER said, overcrowding in most of the densely populated areas of the state coupled with bad hygiene practices amongst people also contribute in no small measure to the spread of this disease which the state government and international health agencies have been trying for years to eradicate.

She stated that although the state government commits funds to making sure measles, which is one of the six childhood killer diseases is completely eradicated, bad practices amongst the people still contribute to the disease resurfacing from time to time.

According to her, “it is not that these people are not counseled when they come to health facilities, it is that there is high level of illiteracy, ignorance,

beliefs in superstition and taboos, bad hygiene and poverty amongst the people.

“At times, these problems can be overcome but many of them cannot overcome this problems because they do not have the financial resources to keep healthy.

“We must not forget that it is our children who are susceptible to this disease especially those between the ages of 0 through 5 years. They are the ones in the catchment years and are prone to getting the disease.

“With immunization, it can be prevented and the child would be protected for life. Measles vaccines are given to infants at the age of 9 months.

It must not be taken before the baby gets to that age”.

She stressed that measles can be eradicated from the state if the people are committed to giving their children a balanced diet and ensure that they are given vaccines to combat the disease before they pass the age of 5.

Other actions that can be taken to

•VICTOR NWABUDIKE

13

With

FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

He said, OSACA as an agency had been able to provide leadership for HIV response in the state through planning, co-ordination, monitoring and adequate supervision of stakeholders in the control and prevention of HIV. Dr. Bello stated further that, OSACA through the World Bank Second HIV/ AIDS Programme Development Project (HPDP) supported HIV stakeholders in the state to implement HIV prevention, care and support activities between year 2012 and 2017.

According to him, the agency also supported 31 Local Agencies for the Control of Aids (LACA) to conduct 1,269 community outreaches across the state through which 331,709 people were counseled, tested and 669 people were tested positive.

Dr. Bello equally lauded the present administration under the leadership of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who has demonstrated political will in the Control of HIV/AIDS by transforming SACA into an Agency in 2010 thus, providing a boost for the multi-sectoral response to HIV in the state.

He charged the management of Orolu Local Government under the leadership of the Chairman, Hon. Benson Adekunle, not to relent in the awareness campaign of HIV, saying it is sad that the council had HIV prevalence estimation of 1.3% in 2017 as against 0.2% in 2015.

Dr. Bello therefore charged other council chairmen to emulate Orolu Local Government and play their part by investing in the health of their citizens through provision of funds to LACAs. Earlier in his speech, the Chairman, Orolu Local Government, Hon. Benson Adekunle said his government had provided adequate measures to sensitise the people of the local government on how to avoid contacting and managing the disease.

Highlights of the occasion includes, free test, counseling, distribution of free drugs and other items like condom.

Measles: How Life Style Contributed To Re-emergence

prevent measles, Oke revealed, include, maintaining a high level of personal hygiene.

“Maintaining a high level of hygiene means taking care of utensils, cutleries, keeping the environment clean, washing every dirty clothes, ensuring the toilets and bathrooms are cleaned, using clean and safe water.

“Also, houses should have good ventilation. It is important for every home to be cross-ventilated. It is unfortunate that most people do not know the importance of cross ventilation. Germs and bacteria tend to thrive in warm, humid and moist habitations but with cross-ventilation, such places would be exposed to fresh air and sunlight at all times.

Oke also advised that parents should monitor their children’s temperature and if high temperature persists for more than three days, a physician should be sought.

“The parents should take the child to an hospital so that appropriate treatment will be given immediately.

Osun O-Signage Urges Advertisers To Obtain Permission 14

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org

NEWS

FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

Mustapha observed that SDP and others. So, I do state, which he described any bill board mounted

By Israel Afolabi in public places in the think that as a sign of tolerance. the present Government not Meanwhile, members state”.

State of Osun Signage Hoarding and is tolerant with what he government or the They condemned the of some political parties Advertisement Agency [O-SIGNAGE] has advised saw in public agency is bias at all “. rate charges advertisers across the State to abide by the agency’s advertisement In the same vein, an who spoke with our high in imposed on erection of correspondent lamented rules and regulations when displaying their goods comparing the situation Osun indigene, who is a advertisement boards what they described as and services to the public. medical doctor resident in some other states.

The Director, which shows that it is not He said, “I can see in Katsina, Dr. Oloyede high rate of charges on across the state while urging the agency to look Administration and bias in its activities so far. different posters of Hakeem also observed bill board.

They said” into that angle.

Supply of the agency Mr. However, an Osun aspirants on the wall. I that government allows government taxes are too Sola Shonibare made this indigene who lives in see the one of PDP, APC, sign post of opposition in known while speaking Kano Mallam Kadri ACCORD, ADP, ADC, the strategic places of the high and expensive on with our correspondent in his office in Osogbo, State capital.

He explained that the international and per cent ready for the

By Solomon Odeniyi remain neutral in the agency is abiding by the national observers from state election. laws and rules that The INEC boss added September 22 election.

Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim idris has adjudging elections as The Ooni of Ife advised established it, which acknowledged the need to collaborate with various not credible. that in a bid to ensure always guide its stakeholders in the country to have a free, fair and Speaking, the National adequate security during aspirants to ensure that operations all the time. credible election in the September 22 governorhop Chairman of INEC, the election 16,000 peace prevail in the state He urged advertisers election and 2019 general election.

Mamuhod Yakubu security personnel would and not see election as to obtain all necessary represented by the state be deployed to the state. war, adding that power The Police chief who could precipitate permits before erecting He assured that INEC resides and belongs to the REC, Prof Segun Agbaje any form of bill boards in spoke at a seminar violence and actions that said the commission is 80 would do all it could to people. might lead to both themed: “Imperatives of the state now.

According to him, Police Collaboration with different billboards have Essential Stakeholders; its sizes and rates, so the Towards Secured, free, signpost has its sizes and fair and credible election rates as well, that is why in Nigeria” identified the we implore advertisers to stakeholders to include; parties, come to our office before political placing or erecting any candidates, media, civil advertisements of any society organizations, kinds.

Election Observers, He explained that opinion leaders among there are rules and rates others. in place for advertisers He described them as either politician, the mirrors through companies and public to which the police receive observes. feedback on conducts of He said, “Anybody officers posted to police that wants to site or place elections, adding that like a billboard should come normal conventional to our agency and seek police duties, this cannot our conscience before be effectively achieved doing so to avoid without the support of displacement’. stakeholders in elections.

Mr. Shonibare also He stressed that •Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Mrs Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori (4th left); APC Governorship Candidate in the state, confirmed that the House of Assembly is working regular consultation like Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola (4th right) in a group photograph with Clergy men during a special prayer and thanksgivbecame very ing service and celebration of 27th aniversary of the state organized by Government House Chapel at Government to review the O’signage this Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI. establishment bill to important, as it would house, Osogbo on Sunday. make it more functional. provide the needed for Meanwhile, he assured opportunity the public of tolerance to conversations around the saying all political parties in the elections, organized to mobilise of Mr. Elijah Sunday, and state while denying that information gathered

By Sikiru Obarayese the Secretary, Shola Ojo, support of Oyetola. the agency gives priority would complement usual A group of Ondo State indigene base in Osun, supported In an interview with had to a particular political intelligence gathering on Ondo Sunshine Group on Wednesday pledged elections, as well as guide OSUN DEFENDER, Aregbesola for his second party in power. term and now seeking support for the governorship candidate of the All former member of Ondo He noted that the in deployment strategies agency has once removed to determine where to Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Gboyega House of Assembly, Hon. the continuity of good the bill board of Alhaji concentrate resources Oyetola in the September 22 gubernatorial election. Aisha Olasehinde hinted work of Aregbesola.

In her word, the former Gboyega Oyetola the and manpower.

The group advocated across all the 30 local that their slogan “Ondo lawmaker said, “We gubernatorial candidate The IGP advised for the continuity of governments and Area for Aregbe” is also want the government of of APC and other politicians and their Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola Office in Modakeke known as Ondo Sunshine APC to continue in Osun, political parties in the supporters to desist from work in the state. made the declaration at Group. it’s the best for our people State for not complying certain conducts which She said, the group and for all the indigenes The group, spread their meeting in Osogbo with the agency rule under the chairmanship of Osun as well.

She then pledged full ATTAH LUCKY support for Oyetola and That I was formerly said all Ondo residing in “I was fascinated by collect as my portion and he wants people to known and addressed as •Continued from page 3 him to OMALE SUNDAY, but Osun will vote for him as Osogbo and currently various designs of bead bought beads and wire patronize the next Osun Governor encourage him to do which makes me a from Mama Daniel. now wish to be known he is in JSSII at Ogidan “We usher in more and makes it a regular caller; even when “I made one and and addressed as ATTAH Middle School in source of living LUCKY. All former Aregbesola for his second I am going to school and showed it to her and she time and Oyetola shall Osogbo. back, I nodded that I got it right, regardless of age or documents remain valid. also be expecting our Kafayat, Sultan mother coming disability. votes in the September G.T. Bank and General sells provision and she deliberately makes it an then I had continued in He said he is interested 22. public should take note. loves to invest in her habit to stop over and the making of bead in becoming an watch her doing her accessories and sell to children’s education.

FOLAYAN TOLULOPE SULAIMAN FATIMOH entrepreneur that would business”.

KUBURAT people at various make impact through his ABIKE According to Sultan, “I Queried on how he That I was formerly known That I was formerly occasions”, he said. only learn making bead vocation. and addressed as SULEIMON was able to garner money known and addressed as It is however clear in through observation, as I To invest in a child like FATIMA DEMILADE , but OYELEKE KUBURAT always go to one Mama to start bead making, he the appearances of the Sultan would definitely now wish to be known and TOLULOPE , but now wish Daniel bead centre said, “I started with the young Sultan that he not be a waste for any addressed as SULAIMAN to be known and addressed FATIMOH ABIKE. And my located at Oja Oba in money I realized from needs a lot of help,, but well-meaning individual correct Date of Birth is 7th as FOLAYAN KUBURAT Osogbo to buy materials daily contribution (Ajo) one amazing thing about or government, as he has Day of September, 1999 not TOLULOPE. All former where I systematically out of the money given to him is that he is not the potential to showcase 7th Day of April, 2000. All documents remain valid. documents remain valid.

G.T. Bank and General observe and try same me to eat in school. So I interested in begging for which would serve as an former G.T. Bank and General public started with N2,000 I money, his plea was that empowerment for him. public should take note. when I get back home”. should take note.

IGP Seeks Collaboration For Credible Election In Nigeria

Ondo Indigenes In Osun Declare Support For Oyetola

How I Learnt Bead Making

Niqqob Sister Bags 3 Months Jail For Stealing Sheeps FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

By David Adejuwon A Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo on Monday sentenced a 26-year-old Niqqob Sister, popularly refers to as ‘Eleha’ Fatimoh Ismail for stealing two sheep.

The accused person Inspector Olayiwola Fatimoh is facing a count Rasaq told the court that charge bothering on the accused person committed the offence on stealing.

Police prosecutor, September 26, 2018 at

CRIME

Akede Iyaloja Area Okebaale Osogbo, Osun State.

Inspector Rasaq said the accused who resides in Ibadan came to Osogbo to steal two live sheep belonging to one Olatunji Wasiu.

Rasaq said she was

caught red-handed with the sheep where she tied them and waiting for a vehicle to convey them back to Ibadan.

However, when the owner saw his sheep, he recognized them and quickly held her and called for help.

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He further said the offence committed is contrary to Section 390(9) of Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. II Laws of Osun State Nigeria.

The accused person pleaded guilty to the onecount charge leveled against her.

While she was asked to comment on her action, she said she is a nylon bags seller and also sells Soya cake (wara), adding that she could not explain how the two sheep got to her possession.

She pleaded for mercy

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and pledged to turn a new leave as the act was not intentional.

Defence counsel, R.A Arikewuyo prayed the court to temper justice with mercy in its judgment, adding that his client has little mental disorder and urged the court to consider her three little kids.

In her judgement, Magistrate Awodele found Fatimoh guilty of the offence and sentenced her to 3 months imprisonment with an option of fine in the sum of N2000.

Court Remands Two Suspects Over Robbery

By David Adejuwon Two suspects, Adeyemo Kehinde Johnson, 32 and Ayodele Segun Olukunle, 31, have been remanded in prison custody by an Osogbo magistrate court over alleged armed robbery. with The suspects are facing themselves a two-count charge of dangerous weapons and robbed one Nurudeen armed robbery.

Police prosecutor, Sofiat of the cash sum of Elisha Olusegun told the N34, 000.

He further stated that court that the accused persons and others now the offence committed is contrary to section 6(b), at large committed the offence on August 10, (2)(a)(b) of the robbery 2018 at Biket area and firearms(special provisions) Act Cap Rll Osogbo.

14 laws of Federation Elisha said the vol. of Nigeria, 2004. defendants armed Plea of the accused persons was not taken due to the magnitude of the offence committed.

Magistrate Fatimoh Presiding Magistrate, Mrs Falilat Sodamade Sodamade ordered the suspects to be remanded granted the suspect bail in the sum of N600,000 in Ilesha prison custody pending the time their with two sureties.

The case was file will be forward to the adjourned to September appropriate court for trial.

24 for hearing.

Police Docks Man For Theft Of Toyota Camry •The stolen sheeps with inset of Fatimah during her trial in court.

By Mariam Bello Police in Osun on Monday arraigned one Obamwonyi Alex, 38, before a Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo over alleged car theft.

Inspector Joshua and one explorer vehicle Oladoye informed the total valued N3,950,000 court that the accused properties of one Mr person stole and solarin Adekunle, the converted to his own use, complainant.

The prosecutor one Toyota Camry vehicle, one Honda pilot submitted that the

offence contravenes section 383(1) and punishable under section 390(10A) of the criminal code cap of 34 vol.ll laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2003.

The prosecutor, inspector Oladoye Joshua told the court that the defendant committed the offence on January 2018

at Babalola White House Ogo-oluwa area Osogbo.

He pleaded not guilty to the single count charge preferred against him by the police.

The defence counsel, Mr A.O Emmanuel prayed the court to grant his client bail in the most liberal terms.

Man Attempting To Steal Car Nabbed

Car Battery Theft On The Rise

By Murtala Agboola

Car owners have been admonished to take necessary precaution whenever they park their the accused was granted vehicles to prevent the theft of their car batteries.

By Mariam Bello bail in the most liberal bail in the sum of N50, The admonition was that churches in his area The Osun State police command has arraigned a terms and added that his 000 with two sureties in given by Chief Gbadebo were forced open and 25-year-old Yusuf Jimoh on Monday before a client will not abuse the like sum.

Adeyemo, the chairman valuables carted away.

Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo over an attempt priviledge and will stand The case was of the Police Community Members were his trail. to steal. adjourned till September Relations Committee advised to be wary of In the ruling of the 4, 2018 for hearing of the (PCRC) of Ataoja Police workmen like panel The defendant, Yusuf Defence counsel, Jimoh is facing a two- Okobe Najite prayed the presiding Magistrate, matter.

Division, Ataoja Estate at beaters, drivers, count charge bothering court to grant his client Mrs Modupe Awodele, the State capital during mechanics so that they do on attempting to steal. the monthly meeting of not expose every security The Prosecutor the PCRC recently. devices to them.

Assistant Superintendent He stressed the fact On the whole, the Police Fagboyinbo that the dexterity with Divisional Police Officer bail with the sum of

By Mariam Bello Abiodun said Yusuf which these car batteries DPO, CSP Banawi Ishaku Jimoh attempted to For allegedlly stealing N25,000 and a Nokia phone, N500,000 with one surety. are stolen show that it is represented by the She added the surety commit felony by having Babalola Wasiu, 25, has been arraigned before a should swear to an done with the assistance District Crime Officer in his possession a Toyota Magistrate Court in Osogbo. affidavit of means, of some panel beaters (DCO), SP Adeniran Camry car key and a The prosecutor, ASP 3 years tax and mechanics who Emmanuel stated that the spanner which he cannot F a g b o y i n b o represented by Mr J. P provide more about police had little to do in clearance and the address know give satisfactory account Abiodun explained that Jones pleaded not guilty to should be verified by vehicles. terms of dealing with the accused person and the charges preferred of. police.

Another member of the criminals, that He told the court that others at large stole the against him.

The case was adjourned PCRC also raised the notwithstanding, The Magistrate, Mrs F. the accused person money and the Nokia for hearing. phone valued N15,000 issues of burglary, saying members were asked to A Sodamade grant him committed the offence on He said the cash and the be vigilant at all times.

August 25, 2018 at phone totaling N40,000 Members were asked Gbodofon area in belongs to one Mr Azeez to challenge commercial Osogbo.

Ismail.

There is vacancy in a reputable media organisation motorcycle operators He added that the The prosecutor stated who work at odd hours, the offence offence committed is that in Osogbo for experienced Advert Canvassers. and where cogent contrary to and contravenes section 390(9) Remuneration is performance-based and one of the reasons are not given, the punishable under section of the criminal code cap 34 vol.ll laws of Osun State of police should be 509, 430 of the criminal best in the industry.

2003. immediately informed. code cap 34 vol. ii laws of Nigeria He told the court that the Also the contribution Osun State, Nigeria 2003. suspect committed the Candidate must be resident in Osogbo. of members towards the The accused person offence on August 24, at completion of PCRC Hall For enquiries: Please Contact Mr. Agboola on pleaded not guilty to the about 12:05 am at Oke Fia at the Police Division was two count charges area in Osogbo.

08061197897, 07032594744 and 08038144394. solicited.

The suspect who is preferred against him.

Babalola Arraigned Over Alleged Stealing Of Nokia Phone

VACANCY

Niqqob Sister Bags 3 Months In Jail For Stealing Sheeps CRIME

Omisore Has Found His Voice Again THE SIXTH MOST VISITED WEBSITE IN NIGERIA .

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FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018 .

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OBSERVATION

The spending on education has brought I would have found Senator Iyiola Omisore’s infantile attack on the the desired fruits, contrary to the claim of the longest runway in administration of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Senator Omisore. Before Governor Nigeria.

BY SOLA FASURE Both sides of the runway Rauf Aregbesola, distasteful; if not that it Aregbesola came to office in 2010, the best under the PDP have been equipped with is hilarious. The wily politician has a way performance water pipes for fire fighting purpose, in (EFCC), he promptly refunded N300 of titillating his fantasy by making wild administration in the state was 15 per cent and outrageous claims on Osun debt pass in WAEC Senior Secondary School case a plane catches fire, which will be the million and signed an agreement to first of its kind in Nigeria.

As it is, a pilot refund instalmentally the balance of N1.3 profile. I have read the non-report several Certificate Examination. As at 2018, it has times and cannot find anything of however risen under the Aregbesola can land a big aircraft on its well billion of public funds found in his substance in it. The report represents no administration to 54 per cent. That is still compacted runway. It was supposed to unlawful custody, through the office of the National value, other than mischief. not satisfactory by our standard but it is a be a joint project with the Federal Security Adviser.

The issue of Osun debt profile is very whopping 36 per cent increase.

Osun and other well in the public domain. It is one of the Opon Imo, e-learning tablet, is an Government but the later could not provide states got into issues on which the administration has its counterpart funding financial troubled been very transparent. I must have lost to date. water because funds count of the number of times the The total meant for the government, through the Office of amount spent by the state federation account was maniacally the Governor, Ministry of Finance government on this project is dashed by the office of the NSA to PDP and the State Accountant still less than N2 billion, functionaries, including Omisore, which General has released detailed contrary to the bogus and he has been repaying thankfully. information to the public on fictitious figure of N5 Unlike four years ago when he was the the matter. The State’s billion bandied in the opposition front runner, Senator Omisore indebtedness, as at today non-report. is miles away from the candidate of the stands at N170.6 billion However, in 2017, APC, Gboyega Oyetola, and he knows it. made up of N141.1 billion the state government He really has no unique selling point, domestic and N29.5 billion got a concessionaire being an old stock in the market. He has multilateral debts, and who promised to therefore rehashed his concocted debt going down every month complete the project figure of Osun, as his favourite attack line. since the state never at no cost to the But this is a bogey because the loans defaults on repayment. government and taken are performing and the people can The good news here is run it for 30 years. see the evidence in all the nooks and that by 2019, the N30 Regrettably, the crannies of the state. In every local billion vanilla bond c o n c e s s i o n a i r e government where 10 kilometres of roads obtained in 2012 would could not access the have been constructed, every commuter have been fully repaid. funds he banked feels the impact of the loans; every family Also, the N11.4 billion upon from the of the 262,000 pupils that partakes in the Sukuk bond would be Turkish EXIM Bank O’meals every school day will not easily fully repaid in 2020. This and therefore could forget how impactful the loan has been. will free up a lot of the not deliver on the Each of the 40,000 OYES cadets that went resources of the state and project, thus the through the programme and had been the projects procured with termination of the given soft landing will salute the financial the loans would have been a concession. engineering capability of the Ogbeni huge gain.

Senator Omisore has Administration.

Nevertheless, the debt, as at found his voice again, now Osun has been able to put up the most the time they came were, not that election is around the aggressive social protection programme. meant to be hard on the state’s corner, being the candidate of an For instance, Osun put 1,602 most finances. Then, oil was selling unknown party, having been vulnerable senior citizens on welfare, above $100 and Osun was netting crowded out of PDP. He now wants giving them a monthly stipend and taking above N4 billion from the federation to falsely project himself as the main man care of their health needs. Under this same account every month. From this amount, in the midst of crippled opposition programme, 175 lunatics have been the state was able to set something aside of the Aregbesola candidates. Like the dwarf, or the rescued from the streets, treated, for the raining day in form of Omoluabi innovation Administration that exists in no other scurrilous midget, he wants to be noticed rehabilitated and happily reunited with Conservation Fund.

Problem came when oil price fell to as place. It is a school on its own that contains by all means possible – put on a high their family in sound health.

Osun’s investment on security is second low as $22. This affected not only Osun all the recommended textbooks in heeled pair of shoes, climb on the but all the states of the federation, electronic format, all past questions of shoulder of another midget or say and do to none. The state government procured including the Federal Government. WAEC and JAMB and audio tutorials. It outrageous things that will attract 120 patrol vehicles for the law Indeed, this hit the Federal Government has been used by five sets of final year attention to him. It is a familiar tactics of enforcement agencies and bought 25 armoured personnel carriers. No state, not so bad that the then Minister of Finance, students of the state and has contributed the dwarf.

But he is a wounded and spent political even Lagos, can boast of this. We must Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, cried that the significantly to the success of Osun soldier.

Omisore in the heydays of the not forget the 24/7 emergency ambulance administration had to borrow N476 candidates in external examinations.

The state’s home-grown school feeding lawlessness of the Peoples Democratic service with over 30 well-fitted billion from commercial banks to be able Party (PDP) was a lord unto himself, ambulances all over the state. to pay salaries in the last four months of programme is a huge success. Under it, The Aregbesola administration also his administration. This explains the low more than 428 million hot mid-day meals breathing fire and brimstone and have been served to our children in public luxuriating in the invincibility that sponsored 85 medical students of allocation to Osun. impunity confers.

But now, he is an UNIOSUN to Ukraine to complete their Debt has a long history in Osun. Some elementary schools since 2012 to date. of the debts were inherited from the More than 1.5 million pupils have earthbound primate, totally marooned. medical studies. They have since returned Western Region as part of what Chief benefited from the scheme since 2012 Having been indicted by the Economic home after passing out with flying Obafemi Awolowo used to develop the while school enrolment increased from and Financial Crimes Commission colours. Also, 40 young farmers were sponsored to Saxon Anhalt in Germany region. Others were inherited from the old 155,318 pupils at inception to 252,739, for training in modern agriculture while Oyo State. Also, the immediate past representing a 62 per cent increase.

31 outstanding engineering graduates From the N30 billion vanilla bond, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were sent to Germany to master modern administration took a short term N18.3 billion debilitating loan obtained by automobile works and retrofitting. A debilitating loan of N18.3 billion to the PDP administration was restructured. world class mechatronics institute located construct stadia, requiring the state to take The rest and funds from other sources at the College Of Technology, Esa-Oke, is N1 billion bank overdraft to service and were used to construct and rehabilitate the outcome of this investment, where supplement salary payment every month. 230 roads, stretching over 368 kilometres. these whiz kids impact their knowledge The MKO Abiola International Airport One of the first tasks of the Aregbesola and expertise on local technicians, artisans administration was to restructure this in Ido Osun was started by the PDP and tradesmen. administration. The site of the airport was loan into a long term easy loan.

With the loans and other resources of But the loans taken were most the old aerodrome used by the West the state, it is beyond dispute that judiciously used for infrastructure African Frontier Force to airlift soldiers Aregbesola has transformed the fortunes development in the state. The N11.4 during World War II. It was the place of Osun. It will take more than a concocted billion sukuk bond was used for the where plane first landed and picked and contrived debt crisis to beat the construction of 11 state-of-the-art mega passengers in Nigeria in 1934, hence of candidate of the APC on September 22 high schools. Each school is a three-in-one historical significance. The State governorship election in the state. with capacity for to accomodate 3,000 Government has done an extensive work pupils. Every year, the schools will on it, including evacuating and refilling •Sola Fasure lives in and writes from graduate a combined 11,000 top of the 3.5 kilometre-long and 12.3 metre-deep Osogbo. laterite soil for the preparation of about grade students.

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo, State of Osun.

All correspondence to the Editor, KAZEEM MOHAMMED, Telephone: 0806-220-7954, kazeemayofe26@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org., Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com,

See Editorial On Page 4

Debt has a long history in Osun. Some of the debts were inherited from the Western Region as part of what Chief Obafemi Awolowo used to develop the region.

Others were inherited from the old Oyo State.