Osun Defender PDF Version For July 28, 2017

MAGAZINE

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Setting The Record Straight

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Of Stranded Medical Doctors

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The clarifications made by the State of Osun’s Commissioner for Information, Adelani Baderinwa on the fiercely independent and highly respected Lagos Talks FM radio station yesterday was seminal. We give kudos not just to the commissioner for his lucid elucidations but also to Lagos Talks FM for their

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VOL. 012. NO.22

professionalism.

The station had phoned the commissioner literally out of the blues to speak on the issue of salary payments in the State of Osun. His response was masterful. He completely debunked the

•Continued on page 4

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How Majority Of Osun Workers Get Full Salary -

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Pay Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Salary Arrears, Pension, Others With N5.1bn

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Osun Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Salaries Paid Till June 2017

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FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

How Majority Of Osun Workers Get Full Salary

By Kazeem Mohammed Facts have emerged on how the government of the State of Osun has fared on the payment of salaries of its workers, as the largest number of the workforce has been established to have received their full salaries up to date.

According to a data and above have been made available to OSUN taking 50 per cent of their DEFENDER on salaries, which they have Wednesday, 65 per cent received till June 2017. of the workers are on The salary grade level 1 to 7, 25 per arrangement, according cent on grade level 8 to 10, to the data was in line while 10 per cent is on with the Modulated grade level 12 and above. Salary Arrangement As at June 2017, the agreed on by the data showed that workers government and the on grade level 1 to 7, who Labour Unions in the constitute the majority of state when it was clear to the workforce in the state all parties that the have received their financial capacity of the salaries till June 2017, state could not cope with contrary to the the sum of money impression created that required to pay workers’ civil servants were being salary. paid half salaries across The government and the board. the labour unions were The data also showed forced to decide on the that 25 per cent of the modulated salaries due workers population who to dwindling allocation are on grade level 8 to 10 to the states of the have received 75 per cent federation, owing to the of their salaries till June oil theft and corruption 2017, while only the 10 perpetrated by the per cent of the workers ousted Federal who are on grade level 12 Government led by the

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that workers on grade level 1 to 7, who constitute the majority of the workforce in the state have received their salaries till June 2017, contrary to the impression created that civil servants were being paid half salaries.

PDP. It

was

however

gathered that the pensioners in the state

have also been paid their pensions till June 2017 in line with the modulated salary arrangement contrary to the impressions being created against the government.

Meanwhile, the g o v e r n m e n t subsequently set up a committee, led by the renowned former Labour Leader, Comrade Hassan

•South-West Governors (R-L) Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Akinwumi Ambode (Lagos) and Ayodele Fayose (Ekiti), during the South-west Governor’s Forums , at Mitros Residence, Gateway Annex, Abeokuta Ogun State, on Monday.

‘Allegation Of Paris Loan Refund Diversion, Spurious’

By Ismaeel Uthman Government of the State of Osun has described as unfortunate, the decision of a section of pensioners in the state to choose to be blackmailing the state government on the payment of pension.

A statement made by state government had the Commissioner for received the second Information and Strategy, tranche of the refunds Adelani Baderinwa and diverted it when the wondered why the 2011/ fund had not been paid 2012 set of pensioners at all. were approbating and According to the reprobating on the Paris statement, when the Club Loan Refunds, money was finally paid having alleged some last week, the state three weeks ago that the government announced

that it has received it, yet, the same set of pensioners came out to allege that the Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola’s administration wanted to divert the money.

The statement said that the government has always been paying the salary of the state workers alongside the pensioners with the available resources, saying, it is out of place and mischievous for the pensioners to make

1.

Funeral Service of Pa Benjamin Bamidele Ayobolu Date: Friday, 28TH JULY, 2017 Venue: UMTC Chapel, along Ajasse-Ipo Road, Ilorin, Kwara State.

2.

The Swearing-in-Ceremony of the 2017 Batch ‘A’ Stream II of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members Orientation Course Date: Friday, 28TH JULY, 2017 Venue: Venue: NYSC Orientation Camp, Ede. 3.

Launching / Fund Raising of the 7th Avenue Islamic Centre by the Abuja Muslim Humma Date: Saturday, 29TH JULY, 2017 Venue: Project Site along 7th Avenue, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

4.

Southwest Youth Summit of the National Youths Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) Date: Saturday, 29TH JULY, 2017 Theme: Revolutionary Change of Nigeria Youth Emancipation and Beginning of True Governance.

Venue: Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ) Hall, Osogbo.

5.

Grand Finale of the 70th Birthday Celebration of Chief Ifayemi Ayinde Elebuibon, the Araba Awo of Osogboland Date: Sunday, July 30th, 2017 Venue: Atlantis Civic Event Centre West Bye Pass, Osogbo.

allegation that the governor wants to divert the money.

“It is important to state that other pensioners in the state have been appreciative of the A r e g b e s o l a ’ s commitment to the payment of their pensions, despite the financial challenges.

Aregbesola has prioritised the payment of salaries and pensions of the workers and senior citizens of the state.

“The government had used the first tranche of the paris club refund to pay three months salaries and pensions in 2016

without any agitation from the workers and the pensioners. The governor would also make use of the second refunds judiciously.

“The allegation of the 2011/2012 pensioners is spurious and their actions is unbecoming of senior citizens”, the government stressed.

It then appealed these set of pensioners to desist from being used by the opposition, saying, there is a standing committee led by Comrade Hassan Sunmonu that allocates and distributes fund to every sectors and individuals.

Sunmonu, with representatives of labour unions and government to monitor the revenue coming to the coffer of the government for the purpose of salary payment.

While some states still owe workers across board their full salaries for close to a year, the Osun government adopted the modulated salary option to ensure that workers have something to lay their hands on every month, instead of retrenching workers in the state.

It would be recalled that impressions have been created that all workers in the service of Osun government were taking 50 per cent of their salaries up to date across board, a situation that has resulted to the formulation of a popular parlance in the state, ‘Hafusa’.

However, while some states in the South-West region have not paid any salary of their workers in 2017, it was gathered that some, has only been able to pay for the January alone.

The governor, Rauf Aregbesola has recently assured the workers that the government would pay the outstanding part of the salaries of workers as the revenue of the state improves.

However, the governor at a programme organised by the Osun Police Community Relations Committee o Wednesday has described as falsehood, insinuations that Osun is not paying workers their monthly salaries, saying, in spite the economic challenges confronting the nation and Osun state in particular, his administration has not failed in paying the state workforce regularly.

•Continued on page 10

Five Docked For Fraud

By Akinsanmi Abidemi Five persons, including a woman have been arraigned before a Magistrate Court, sitting in Osogbo, presided over by M.A. Awodele for alleged fraud.

According to the be false.

The charge sheet also prosecutor, Inspector Olu Aboderin, the accused stated that one of the persons, persons duped one Mr accused Musa, at Agboola Bensalah on the Amusan Ofatedo Area Osogbo did 4th of December, 2012. obtained the sum of The five persons are Amusan Musa, Sali N100,000 from the same Laisu, Hassan Oladipo, complainant with the Salawu Waheed, Fasilat pretence that he will produce a survey plan Waheed.

In the eight-count that covers two acres of charge for which they land knowing same to be were brought to court, false.

It also stated that, three the accused were alleged of obtaining N800,000 of the accused persons from one Agboola Amusan Musa, Sali Akinola Bensalah under Laisu, and Fasilatu the pretence of selling Waheed on the same date some plots of land time, and place obtained situated at Ponpola N500,000 from the same village, knowing same to complainant under the

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false pretence of selling two acres of land to him.

The charge sheet also reveal that the five accused persons did threatened the life of the complainant telling him he will be killed shortly and consistently parading themselves around the resident of the complainant at Ofatedo Area, Osogbo.

The accused persons pleaded not guilty to the allegations leveled against them and their counsel, Suleiman Kazeem applied for their bail, praying that the bail be granted on a liberal term.

The accused persons were granted bail in a sum of N250,000 each and the case was adjourned till August 1, 2017.

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

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Osun Govt Dredges 250km Of Waterways

By Sola Jacobs would come calling then burning of wastes, saying in the state to cooperate state.

Besides, he also the citizens and the that burning of waste is with environment health Government of the State of Osun has again to the officials in the state to warned against street government would be at harmful warned that whoever is caught dumping refuse on promote healthy living trading in the state, environment and the the receiving end. waterways would not be pitied by the government, On the activities of government would not and protect lives and saying, such practice but dealt with, with instrument of the law.

Private Waste collectors hesitate to prosecute property by desisting would no longer be He said the indiscriminately at in the state, he urged the those who continue with from dumping refuse on condone, as precious government has unauthorised places, populace to keep on such practice. waterways, so as to lives have been lost in the investment heavily in the stressing that when the patronising them, rather Korede however prevent flooding in all the process. management of the effect of their crime than engaging in open admonished the people towns and cities in the environment in the state through dredging of over 250 kilometres of its lmnop qrst uvwsxyz waterways among others to ensure flood free rainy Salawu, NLC Secretary, The beneficiaries of cent of the state

By Ismaeel Uthman season in the state, Pastor Rufus Adeyemi, the arrears are level 8 personnels were being The state government of Osun has been Dr Niyi Oginni of the and above workers of paid full salary. saying, the investment would not be allowed to reported to have resolved to commit N5.1billion Nigeria Medical the state who constitute The commitment of waste through the of the second tranche of Paris Club Refund to Association (NMA), 35 per cent of the the N5.1 billion is far lackadaisical attitude of the payment of arrears of leave bonus, salary and representative of the workforce. They had above the 50 per cent some ungrateful citizens. pension of the workers and pensioners of the workers of the state been receiving recommendation of the The Commissioner for state and those of the local government. owned tertiary modulated salary since Federal Government for Environment and the payment of salary of The state government meeting included the institutions and Ladoke July 2015.

Sanitation in the state, Mr had Workers on level 1 to workers from the Paris last week of the Akintola University of Korede Idowu disclosed announced that it had Chairman Technology.

7 who constitute 65 per Club refund.

Nigeria Labour during a chat with OSUN received N6.314 billion Congress (NLC), DEFENDER in his office as its own share of the Comrade Jacob on Tuesday, reiterating refund.

Adekomi, Chairman of the commitment of the The Comrade Hassan Trade Union Congress state government to Sunmonu led Comrade protect lives and A p p r o p r i a t i o n (TUC), properties by taking Committee and the Adebowale Adekola and Chairman of Joint proactive measures to Labour unions in the avert flooding in the state agreed to the Negotiation Council, Comrade Bayo state. payment of the balance He regretted that of July and August of Adejumo.

Others included inspite the investment of 2015 salaries, balance of of the the government and leave bonus of 2015 and Chairman Nigerian Union of Local several warnings, some July 2017 salary from Government Employee individuals have the refund.

(NULGE) Comrade Deji remained ignorantly It was gathered that Adeyeye, Chairman of adamant and continued the decision to spend to demonstrate N5.1 billion to settle the Nigerian Union of (TUC), unpatriotic stance by arrears of pension and Teachers Comarde Waheed dumping waste on salary was arrived at on Amuda, Chairman of waterways, warning that Wednesday night.

Nigeria Union of •The chairman, Osun Police Community Relation Committee, Comrade Amitolu Shittu such persons should The arrears of leave desist or be prosecuted if bonus, pension and Pensioners in Osun and other dignitaries at a conference organised by PCRC in Osogbo on Wednesday.

State, Alhaji G.O caught in the act. salary are expected to According to him, the be paid any time from O’Clean Marshals now. activities have been The OSUN He noted that the of council members in reviewed and DEFENDER gathered council then appealed key areas of Civil empowered to arrest and that the meeting which Reform, to all residents of the Service prosecute those who was inconclusive on

By Murtala Agboola state and all Osuwon Omoluabi, violate environmental Tuesday was finalised Revenue Generation, individuals, agencies, and sanitation laws in the on Wednesday with The Executive Council of the State of Osun has state, saying waste leaders of all the labour directed all the Ministries, Departments and firms and organisations Sanitation, Security and doing business in Osun Sports Development. policing will resume fully unions in attendance.

Agencies of government to acquire the in the state.

It was gathered that consciousness of revenue generation as the basis to pay their taxes and \ab]c` ^d ]be` other dues as their civic Describing the Governor Rauf for running government. dumping of refuse on Aregbesola obligations and avoid That I formerly known was According to the the Governor, Sola waterways as a violation represented by his Chief facing the consequences as OYEDEPO AZEEZ of environmental laws, of Staff, Alhaji Gboyega briefing of the council Fasure, the campaign of running afoul of the ADEWALE, now wish held on must be sustained tax law. he therefore warned Oyetola at the meeting. meeting to be known and addressed as those who dump waste Fasure also hinted Labour leaders at the Wednesday, signed by among all staff of MUFUTAU AZEEZ the Media Adviser to government. that the council has OYEDEPO. All former Fasure said that approved the fghijk documents remains henceforth, the inauguration of seven valid. General public government would be committees comprised should take note of this. run with the consciousness of an \ab]c` ^d ]be` \ab]c` ^d ]be` enterprise in which That I formerly known as That I formerly known revenue must be earned ODETOLA KHADIZA as SALAMI IJESA YOUTH FORUM before it can be spent, OMOWUMI, now wish to ADEDOKUN RAJI, be known and addressed as saying, this is the only 10. Olatunji Olayiwola Joshua This is to inform the general public that the now wish to be known ODETOLA ADIJAT above named association has applied to the path to overcoming the and addressed as Aims and Objectives Corporate Affairs Commission for OMOWUMI. All former present challenges and AKANJI ADEDOKUN. 1.

To promote the norms and values of registration under part “C” of the Companies documents remains valid. the survival of the state All former documents Ijesa lands as well as protecting our and Allied Matters Act 1990.

Sterling Bank, Diamond remains valid. General system. cultural heritages.

Bank and general public Names of Trustees public should take note Noting that the 2. To support orphans, widows and less should take note of this. of this.

1. Fashipe Opeyemi Isaac council noted the ban privileged ones in the society. placed on the sales of 2. Arogunjo Veronica Olubukola WXYZ[\ ]^_[\` 3. To serve as a platform for social WXYZ[\ ]^_[\` petrol and diesel interaction, economic development 3. Ayeni Benedict Adebayo A B D U L R A S A Q YAKUBU LANRE engines by Britain and strategy as well as youths ABUBAKAR, ISIAKA JELILI, is the same person 4. Agbaje-McThomas Richard empowerment in the society.

ABUBAKAR SODIQ, France with effect from as AFOLABI LANRE. I 5. Sunday Lanipekun Ojo. ABUBAKAR SODIQ, ISHAQ 2040, he said "this Any objection to this registration should now wish to be known and ABUBAKAR SADIQ, is the 6. Agbaje Oluwadamilare Ajayi be forwarded to the Registrar General, effectively signals the addressed as YAKUBU same person as ISHAQ Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, 7. Adeyeye Ademola Andrew end of oil dependent ABUBAKAR SODIQ. I now LANRE JELILI. All Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Irons I street wish to be known and addressed former documents remain economies, making it 8. Mustapha Taiwo Falilat PMB 198, Maitama, Abuja within 28days as ISHAQ ABUBAKAR valid. UBA, SKYE Bank more imperative for our of this publication.

9. Taiwo Tayo Rotimi SODIQ. All former documents and general public should state to be selfremain valid. General public take note.

Signed: Secretary should take note. sustaining".

Osun To Pay Workers’ Salary Arrears, Pension, Others With N5.1bn

Osun Govt Directs MDAs On Revenue Generation Drive

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Setting The Records Straight •Continued from front page

carefully constructed myth that the state owes salaries.

Not many people outside the state are aware that unlike elsewhere, the State of Osun which is a non-oil producing state (with all the fiscal tightness that goes with the designation) is up to date with 65% of the work force who are within GL 1-7 – have had their Full Salaries Paid; 25% of the workforce who are within GL 8-12 (have had 75% of Full Salaries Paid; 10% are within GL 13 and above (and have had 50% of Full Salaries Paid).

This achievement must not be understated. GL 1-7 are the weakest categories, the least protected socially. For the state government to continue to pay them in full, as and when due, is a clear compassionate interpretation of the social justice ethos entailed in the social contract. The overwhelming majority of the states have not interpreted the social contract in this manner.

Laudably, the State of Osun has not used the precarious fiscal situation as an excuse to cancel its rudimentary social safety nets.

The greatly admired free elementary school feeding programme has continued without a break. Imitation being the most sincere form of flattery, this programme is now being replicated in some other states and is at the heart of the federal government’s social intervention programmes now too. The Osun programme has been used here by the federal government as the template since there is no sensible reason to reinvent the wheel.

We have to state here that there is a difference between a politician who thinks about the next election, and a Statesman who thinks about the next

Statesman-like approach in preference to political expediency...

•Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru

•Chief Obafemi Awolowo

•Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

•Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola

generation. Here, Aregbesola’s statesmanship and dispositions replicate the attitudes of avatars like, Jahalal Pandit Nehru (India’s first prime minister), the Labour government in the United kingdom 1945-51 and Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

It must be remembered that due to the high level of taxation needed to develop the social and physical infrastructures, Awolowo’s Action Group party continued to suffer

electoral reverses in local, regional and the central elections in 1954 and 1959. He remained unfazed with the temporary setbacks. We are all aware of course about the verdicts of history on him and the government he spearheaded.

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola is treading the same part, denying himself the luxury and the excuses Publisher of the easy way out. The verdicts of history on

right frame of mind juxtapose words we are fed with. We must learn to process words with our analytical mind by deconstructing them and subject them to logical criticism. Failure to do this leads to taking

words/news hook, line and sinker, for our mind is already winged when we allow our analytical mind to go on recess, then we no longer can discern what is morally right or wrong from that which is morally acceptable or

not.

We have to embrace what is ours by imbibing modicum of ethical values and morals for a lasting euphoria, peace and tranquility which are the determinants we are unconscious of that leads

to a nation’s growth and success. The world at large needs to inculcate these virtues.

Without much ado, pronouncing change(s) would only be a risible effort if there is no effective follow up and the right intrinsic

him will be very positive.

As we have observed before from a healthy perspective, a historical figure to whom Aregbesola approximate, is the legendary Governor of the State of California in the 1950s and 1960s, Edmund G “Pat” Brown. Of him, The Economist had cause to observe that, “It was his determined, almost obsessive investments in the physical and social infrastructure that turned California into an innovative, world class economy,” Since Aregbesola’s ‘alternative perspective’ has now become the conventional wisdom, it is inconceivable that a new postAregbesola government will abandon it and seek to restore licentiousness, waste, as well as lack of planning and foresight.

This is reinforced by the way in which the hegemonic base established in another period by the forerunner progressives, such as Obafemi Awolowo and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu continue to endure.

OSUN DEFENDER

Acting Editor

Imbibing The Modicum Of Ethical Values And Morals “By words the mind is winged” - Aristophanes.

Axiomatic enough, the root of our everyday facet of societal degradation is the loss of ethical values and morals. And to be positively functional again like we used to, we have to improve on our dysfunctionalities in all ramifications. We have to enhance life and propagate human values with communal living our indigenous crusader of love, which is a panacea to all our worldly problems for the spiritual ones to those who believed can be solved with prayers. We have to bring in new developments and ethical re-orientation of our already bastardised socio-cultural values.

It is our duty to in our

As we have observed before from a healthy perspective, a historical figure to whom Aregbesola approximate, is the legendary Governor of the State of California in the 1950s and 1960s, Edmund G “Pat” Brown.

motivation for a change in the people to embrace these virtues. To be free from the “Prison house of our growth”, every individual must begin to see himself as his own industry.

Also, parents and guardians, teachers, religious leaders, etc should individually be a self-designated virtuous model that can be emulated by the youth, the hopeful future of tomorrow regardless of the settings we find ourselves.

We are who we are not with our present status, the level of moral decadence and other social vices but with the history we become.

•RIDWAN OYENIRAN, Ota-Efun, Osogbo.

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MAGAZINE FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

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June 30, 2017, the State of Osun was again before the world stage with the graduation of 50 Medical Students and the triumph of one of them as the overall best student of V.N Karazin Kharkiv National University, Kharkiv, Ukraine at its 2017 Convocation. KEHINDE AYANTUNJI in this piece reflects on the turbulent journey of the stranded medical doctors, and the outstanding success of the 2017 Kharkiv University champion, Dr Oyeleye Lateefah Abiola.

Kharkiv, Northern part of Ukraine is the second largest city of the Europe country. It is a major cultural, scientific, educational, transport and industrial centre of Ukraine, with over 60 scientific institutes, over 30 universities and higher institutions, 6 museums, 7 theatres and 80 libraries. Kharkiv was the first capital of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, from December 1919 to January 1934, after which the capital relocated to Kiev.

Kharkiv is the hosting V.N Karazin Kharkiv National University, Ukraine where 50 medical students of Osun State University recently graduated as medical doctors. 87 of them are currently on the state government scholarship but others are expected to graduate next year.

It is second oldest university in the Ukraine, second only to the University of Lviv, Ukraine. The university has produced at least three Nobel Prize laureates. They include Ilie Mechnikov (Nobel Prize in Physiology/Medicine); Simon Kuznet (1971 Nobel Prize in Economics); and Lev Landau (Physics).

It was founded in November 1804, on the initiative of the prominent educator, V.N. Karazin and in accordance with the charter of Tsar Alexander I. In 2012 when the state government decided to transferred the 98 students of the Osun State University who were stranded over non-availability of Teaching Hospital for Clinical training from 400 to 700 level to Ukraine, it was a very hard decision for Governor Rauf Aregbesola with stiff opposition to the decision move the students to the Southern Europe .

Among those who fervently opposed the transfer was the then National University Commission (NUC) Executive Secretary, Professor Julius Amioba Okojie, who without any hesitation downplayed the genuineness of the government and frantically ridiculed the Ukraine National University as substandard.

Although, the state government refused to spare him from deserved response, his utterances were considered political, rather than

•The Champion, Lateefah Oyeleye (3rd right); the Vice Chancellor, Osun State University, Professor Labo Popoola (3rd left); Osun Deputy Governor, Mrs Titilayo laoye-Tomori (2nd left) and others at the Convocation Ceremony in Ukraine former Soviet Union.

Before the option of the Karazin

University was adopted, the state of hope that we were plunged into, we have government had in 2011 proposed to upgrade the State Hospital at Asubiaro, been raised with new vigour. We have seen in Osogbo, to a teaching hospital, but with Osun a responsible government which would the visibility study then, it would not cost less than N5 Billion to procure the not let its citizens down. Words are not necessary equipment and upgrade the facilities at the state hospital. As at then, enough to celebrate our victory. We have won. government open up that it could not afford such, as it was a period that the academic, inspite his position as the empirical evidence for his claim, state introduced what it termed head of the esteemed universities instead, the former NUC boss “Financial Engineering” by regulatory body in Nigeria. The navigated his criticism to cost restructuring the N18.6 billion United university Okojie described as effectiveness of sponsoring 100 Bank of Africa (UBA) inherited loan and substandard has never moved below students in foreign university when source for bond to execute some capital 2,000 in world ranking since its 200 such amount could develop a teaching project without hindering smooth years of its existence and has occupied hospital in Nigeria. payment of workers salary which was the centre stage in Medical, Astrology, The opposition political parties were N3.6 billion as at the time. Another and Space Science Research in Europe. not left out with all manner of bottleneck that crippled the Ironically, none of the over 100 assumptions and allegations against accreditation was personnel. One of the universities that Okojie was the governor. There was a time he was three major critical factors on which the superintending and accrediting as at alleged to have held a share in the question of adequacy or otherwise of the 2012 in Nigeria has moved closed to the university and only wanted to rob the standard of training in any medical first 5000 in the world ranking. Okojie state through the foreign education trip school depend is the availability of was challenged to provide any to a country that formed part of the •Continued on page 6

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FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

The Triumph Of Stranded Medical Doctors

•Continued from page 5 physical facilities in the form of buildings and equipment, both in terms of capital as well as recurrent costs. The other factor being availability of teachers, and the quantity of students selected. Without clear evidence of the existence, and availability of the aforementioned facilities, Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria scheduled with the responsibility of accrediting and monitoring medical colleges will not approve such college. For instance, it took the pioneer medical students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, 10 years to graduate owning to accreditation challenges.

Obviously, as at that period, no matter what the state government may invest, it may not meet the expectations of the medical students who were already in 300 level, the medical students were stagnated for about two years as a result of non-availability of a teaching hospital for the university. All efforts made to get them admitted to tertiary institutions like Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife; University of Ibadan, UI; University of Lagos, UNILAG; Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, for their clinical courses failed. The reality was that the population of the affected student outnumbered the maximum quota approved for those universities clinical year.

Having tried locally, the government spread the tentacles outside Nigeria to the United State (US), United Kingdom (UK), Belarus and Cuba. The costs of tuition for the training in those countries were astronomical and subsequently considered the Karazin University of Ukraine to sponsor the 87 students on scholarship. It was the most reasonable option available despite the meagre resources of the state.

Aregbesola was of the strong conviction that neglecting the students amounted to sheer irresponsibility and gross recklessness with the lives of the promising young medical doctors.

In 2013, Governor Aregbesola Constituted Transfer Committee headed by Dr Simon Afolayan to conclude all necessary arrangement with the university in Ukraine after the approval of N162 million second

tranche for the scholarship.

Presenting the report of the committee, the Chairman, Dr. Afolayan commended the governor for the huge amount spent to keep the hope of the students alive and reported that the students were enjoying their studies in a conducive atmosphere with best global facilities, saying, “Despite the fact that not all the students are of Osun State origin, Aregbesola’s government, in its magnanimity sponsored the students without any string attached.

This means that the students did not sign any bond with the government.

“For this gesture, posterity will not forget Aregbesola’s courage and magnanimity to the medical students of UNIOSUN.” One of the parents of the beneficiaries who was then the chairman of the Parents’ Representatives, Dr. Ademola Ayodele thanked the governor for a rare expression of compassion shown to their wards, saying, the news of the transfer of the students to Ukraine first came to them as a dream, but with the courage, commitment and determination of government, the goal was achieved at the end.

While receiving the report of the committee, the governor said that his government facilitated the transfer of the students because it believes that a responsible government must fulfill its part of a pact it entered with the people irrespective of which person or party in power signed the agreement so far that governance is continuum.

He said, “I feel fulfilled that the students, who would have had their dreams aborted, would now realise their ambition of becoming a full time medical Doctor. We have kept faith with these children, their parents and guidance towards realising their life time ambitions. In couple of years from now, we will be celebrating their graduation as trained Medical Doctors.

“This government is promising that it will assuage the challenges that the students may be facing during their stay in Ukraine”, the governor told the gathering.

The government in sustaining the scholarship in the years 2012, 2013 and 2014 expended the sum of N60,647,2 00; N68,445,465, and N64,215,800

I feel fulfilled that the students, who would have had their dreams aborted, would now realise their ambition of becoming a full time medical Doctor.

•LATEEFAH: The Champion

•The list of graduating students of the Karazin Kharkiv University, Ukraine. Lateefah on number 513 of the list respectively. The Osun Government extraordinary ability of the champion, also in years 2015 and 2016 academic but becoming overall best student in sessions spent N85,833,750 and such world class university was an N116,495,258.40, totaling arduous task.

The feelings of Latifah at that stage N495,637,473.40. Besides the initial 87 students who then were in 300-500 were a beginning of other great things levels, government also assisted a total in her life with gratitude to God. She of 29 other medical students who were felt so happy because she had never in 100 and 200 levels to secure been celebrated like that in her life with admission to the university and process so much love and appreciation in the their travelling documents, but were air. She was really overwhelmed. She sponsored by their parents. recounted her mood when she was As whatever has a beginning will stagnated as a result of the accreditation definitely has an end, the dream of the crisis in UNIOSUN, saying “I felt really government came to reality with the sad. I saw my dreams almost crashing graduation of the 50 students in July 1st, down in front of me. I thought all hope 2017. Beyond convocation ceremony, was lost, but God came into the picture the whole Karazin University stood up through the Osun state Government for one of them who triumphed as the and I am very grateful for that”. university overall best students, On why she opted for medicine, Oyeleye Latifah Abiola. Prof Mykola O. Latifah partly differed with the popular Azarenkov announced Latifah as the clichés that people studied medicine overall best graduating student from because they want to save lives. She both the Faculty of Medicine and the said “No. in the beginning, teaching entire university. She came out with a was my passion, but I didn’t just want percentage score of 95.6% in the KROK to be a teacher; I wanted to be a teacher 2 Exams which was the final with a difference, I wanted to teach how examination for graduating students.

At the graduation ceremony to save lives, so I decided to study attended by the State Deputy Governor, medicine, that way I will get to be a Otunba Grace Laoye Tomori; doctor and a teacher at the same time, UNIOSUN Vice Chancellor, Professor which I still want to do, but over the Labo Poopoola; the Chairman House of years, I have come to fall in love with Assembly Committee on Education, medicine, I want that instant Hon Oladoyin Bamisayemi and State gratification of treating a patient and Commissioner for Innovation Science seeing them get better right in front of and Technology, Eng. Oluremi me, I mean that is the definition of joy Omowaiye , parents among other for me. So, I studied medicine because dignitaries, Latifah took Osun to the I wanted to have two established fore on world map and justified the lifesaving careers, being a doctor and huge resources invested by the state being a teacher.”

In pursuing her dream in Ukraine, government.

When she was called at the one of the very first challenge she ceremony, for the congregation at encountered as a medical student was university auditorium to rise for the coping with the large syllabus in a very champion, she was so excited and felt short time with other accumulated accomplished for the strangled journey responsibilities within short time. To that ended successfully in Europe with confront the challenges, she learnt time giant feet. She said “We are here today management and positioned herself not proud that from the loss of hope that to lag behind. Another challenge faced we were plunged into, we have been according to Latifah was remembering raised with new vigour. We have seen previous thoughts and ideas conceived in Osun a responsible government through reading especially for a very which would not let its citizens down. long time. She had to constantly Words are not enough to celebrate our remember thoughts, readings and victory. We have won”, she told the retrieving information from memory crowd. even when she does not need them and Lateefah was born in Ibadan, Oyo had to study with a lot of online state, where she attended primary and teachers. All these challenges really secondary schools respectively. She was helped her. admitted to UNIOSUN in 2008 to study Latifah also with the help of her medicine and studied for 3 years before father invested in good books which she got stagnated alongside other gave her edge over others, saying, “I colleagues for the inability of the university to secure accreditation. The have my dad to thank”.

In the next 10 years, it is her wish to father of the Ukraine Champion is into transport business and her mother be a wife and mother to become a consultant cardiologist, a great lecturer engages in buy and selling.

During an interview with Latifah, her and a professor. Latifah is also vision in life was not really such good dreaming of establishing a chain of grades, but to become a great doctor well-equipped diagnostic centres in and teacher of doctors. The effort of the Nigeria where people can do all sorts government, presided over by of investigations to improve Nigeria Aregbesola, no doubt projected the health system.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

Obokun Caretaker Management Distributes Drugs, Cocoa Seedlings Fadaka Felicia from done for the health centre Council Also present are the Manager;

By Israel Afolabi Idoko Primary across the local members of the Oba’bokun of Ibokun, In its bid to ensure agricultural development and Healthcare Centre, improve healthcare delivery, the Caretaker Amola Taiwo from government and urged Caretaker Management Oba Festus Awogboro; Committee; Obokun Alada of Ada-Owode, Management Committee of the Obokun Local Ibokun and Paul Fajuyi him not to relent.

Amongst the Local Government Cocoa Oba I.I. Adesola; Government has distributed cocoa seedlings to from Ibontoro, dignitaries who graced Board Chairman, Elder Ajaregbe of Ijaregbe, Oba farmers and drugs to health centres across all towns appreciated what the the occasion were; Hon. Akinwale Lasun, among E.A. Olutimo and Ajalolu in the Local Government Area.

Executive Secretary has Isaac Kehinde, the others. of Ilase-Ijesa.

The Executive administration of Secretary of the council, Aregbesola by being Alhaji Oladiran Ashaolu, more active in the during the distribution of payment of taxes and the materials on Tuesday other levies. said while, the In his remarks, the distribution of the cocoa Commissioner for seedlings was aimed at Agriculture and Food boosting cash crop Security, Mr Kunle Ige production in commended the agriculture, the caretaker management distribution of drugs was committee for embarking intended to improve on good gesture to relief health care services farmers in the council among the people. and to improve the health He said, “the decision care services as well. to distribute cocoa One of the beneficiaries seedlings was arrived at of cocoa seedlings, after due consultations Oladejo Ojo commended considering the fact that the Executive Secretary agriculture is the largest for the good steps he took source of employment in and urged him to the council area”. continue with it.

According to him, “No Some other farmers, doubt, agriculture Abdul Kolade, Michael remains the largest Akinola and Ibiyemi potential source of Yinusa lauded the employment in our Executive Secretary for •The Executive Secretary, Obokun Local Government, Alhaji Asaolu Oladiran (2nd right); Obabokun of Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro (middle) and officials of the local government during the distribution of drugs to health country’s economy and it the kind gesture. centres and cocoa seedlings to farmers at the council secretariat in Ibokun on Tuesday. is no gainsaying that for Meanwhile, Mrs. agriculture to play this role effectively, there is the need for increased public investment in the The Executive Secretary, Atakumosa East Local improve their living Revenue drive of the local government, said, sector with the ultimate Government, Honourable Oluwafemi standard, not minding government. he was not impressed objective of making it the the meagre resources Identifying some of with the state of things backbone of our Kujembola has tasked rural dwellers to ensure available to the effective protection of government projects the projects that have economy”. government at the local been executed by the in the center, just as he directed the Council He added that his executed within their domains. and state levels. protecting government According to a administration was The council boss also government in the area, Manager to come up by the projects in the area is the he said, part of the civic following the footsteps of statement with proposal on the the Governor Rauf Information Officer of only way they could visited the newly- responsibilities of the provision of hospital renovated Iperindo encourage the the council, Folaranmi A r e g b e s o l a people is to pay their beds and other facilities. administration on its Michael, the council government to do more. Main Market, where he dues to the government He then enjoined the He reiterated the charged the heads for rapid development staff members of the commitment to boss gave the charge agriculture and primary during an interactive commitment of the market men (Babaloja) at the local level. local government to health care system. session with leaders of government to make and women (Iyaloja) to Kujembola who lead always be at alert to He urged the farmers Ikoromoja, led by the life more meaningful encourage traders to riot act over the deliver on the to be conscious of the Akoromaja of for the people at the cooperate with the condition of one of the assignments given to global economic situation Ikoromaja and Owasere grassroot by providing government on the health facility in the them without delay. which demands that the communities, saying, social amenities to Internally Generated people must show interest in the development of agriculture to ensure administration of the attract people from the food security and growth Executive Secretary, neighbouring towns of economy. saying that the town and villages, with a Hon. Ashaolu also In a bid to increase the Internally Generated the market pledged would do everything view to boosting the advised the entire Revenue (IGR) in Ifelodun Area Council, the their unflinching humanly possible to revenue of the council farmers to take proper Executive Secretary, Princess Fausat Jimoh has support to the develop the market to area. care of the seedlings, so embarked on an advocacy visit to the market in that in few years to come the ancient town of Obaagun, soliciting the they can have course to smile, just as he appealed support of market men and women in the council to youths in the country area.

The Executive Obaagun market to buy to engage in farming, with a view to reducing Secretary who was them.

She advised that the accompanied by all the unemployment rate.

The council boss also chiefs of the town only way the people of pleaded with the Obaagun could develop promised that his men and the market was to be administration would market improve the health women to continue to determined to make facilities in the council patronise the market sacrifices by not going better than how its and also invite others to out of the town to sell administration had met come and sell their some of their goods. it. goods at the market so “If you are According to him, “In as to boost the economy determined, buyers will a bid to improve our of the town. look for you and they health facilities better A statement by the than we had met it, my Information Officer of will come to Obaagun administration has the council, Akinlabi to buy your products. purchased drugs of Olawale, said, Princess We can only develop considerable amount Jimoh condemned the this market together, which is being attitude of some people but we must all make distributed to all our concerted efforts health centres in the who were of the habit of towards realising such carrying their goods to council area today”. an achievement”.

He then solicited neighbouring markets In their different •The Executive Secretary, during her visit to the market. support for the instead of allowing responses, the traders in buyers to come to

Council Boss Tasks Rural Dwellers To Protect Govt Projects

Executive Secretary Stresses Need For Cooperation

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THE SOCIAL REGISTER

th Day Fidau Prayer For Late Pa. Hassan Aremu Bello At Atelewo, Osogbo On Tuesday

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUG

Wedding Ceremony Of A Daughter Of Former Permanent Secreta Akintaro, Mojolaoluwa And Her Husband, Ademola At CAC Latona,

•Some of the Children of the deceased (L-R) Jelil Hassan; Taiwo Hassan and Maruf Hassan.

•Bride’s Parents, Elder and Deaconess Abel Akintaro (left); former Secretary to the State Government i

Osun Ex-PS Gives Out Daughter’s Hands In Marriage

By Gbenga Adeniyi

•Alhaji Yusuf Abdulsalam, Chief Imam, Nawar-U-Deen, Osogbo branch (2nd right) and other Islamic Clerics at the programme.

•A cross section of relatives and friends during the prayer.

Muslims and humanity in general have been called upon to remember death always because it is inevitable for all living beings.

The observation was made by the Chief Imam, Nawar-U-Deen, Osogbo branch, Alhaji Yussuf Abdulsalam, at the 8th day fidau prayer of Pa. Hassan Aremun Bello of Abaolu Compound, Kolawole area, Osogbo, State of Osun, on Tuesday.

Alhaji Abdulsalam enjoined Muslims to note that death is the ultimate end for everybody and everyone should prepare for the hereafter, as no good deed can be done after death.

The late Pa. Hassan Aremu

Bello died on 18th July, 2017 and was buried on the same day.

He was the former Chairman, Carpenters Association at Abaolu, Atelewo Area, Osogbo when he was alive.

Pa Bello is survived by children and grand children.

The ancient town of Osogbo in the State of Osun was the host city of dignitaries, as MojolaOluwa, daughter of a former Permanent Secretary, Osun State Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Budget, Elder Abel Akintaro, got married to his better half, Ademola Adeboje.

Friday, July 21st and Saturday, 22nd of July would forever remain memorable in the annals of history for both the Adeboje family and Akintaro family as their children; Mojolaoluwa and Ademola graduated from spinsterhood and bachelorhood into the realm of solemnisation.

The engagement of the two love birds was held at ANCOPPS Hall in Osogbo on Friday, 21st July, 2017 during which Adeboje family came forward with the formal proposal and items requested by the Akintaro family to have their daughter’s hand in

OUR SOCIAL REGISTER IS OPEN FOR YOUR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES TO BE MADE PUBLIC Spaces are available for your anniversaries such as weddings, house-warming and chieftaincy title ceremonies among other 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.

marriage.

The church service marking the solemnisation of the holy matrimony between Ademola and Mojolaoluwa held on Saturday 22nd July, 2017 at Christ Apostolic Church, Latona, Osogbo.

The Chief of Staff to Osun Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; former Speaker Osun State House of Assembly, Honourable Adejare Bello; former Secretary to the Government of Osun, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade; former Head of Service, Elder Segun Akinwusi; former Commissioner for Information, Mr Sunday Akere, Mrs Toun Adegboyega, Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs and former Permanent Secretaries joined the congregation who witnessed how Ademola and Mojolaoluwa were formally declared husband and wife.

The entire congregation later retired to Aurora event centre where a reception was held.

The atmosphere was frenzy, elation filled the air and the joy of the new couple was best encapsulated in the way they danced into the reception venue and acknowledged cheers and best wishes from their retinue of friends, guests, admirers and well wishers.

the air best enc into the cheers an friends,

•The couple during t

(L-R) Chief of Staff with Former Speake

ULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

THE SOCIAL REGISTER

Permanent Secretary, Osun Ministry Of Finance, Elder Abel mola At CAC Latona, Osogbo Last Saturday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

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Schools Hold Valedictory Services In Osogbo

•Cross section of some of the graduating pupils of Day Stars Private School Osogbo, last week Thursday.

tary to the State Government in Osun, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade (right) and others at the event.

¢£¤ ¥¦§¨©ª£¤«¤ ¬¥© ­«¤®¯°, elation filled the air and the joy of the new couple was best encapsulated in the way they danced into the reception venue and acknowledged cheers and best wishes from their retinue of friends, guests, admirers and well wishers.

It was a fun galore last Thursday, as the Day Stars Private School Osogbo celebrated her third graduation ceremony at the Bishop Court, Isale-Aro, Osogbo.

Highlight of the event included the prizegiving and award conferment, cultural dance, among others.

Abdullahi Adeleke went home with Master

of Science award for pre-basic school three. Tomiwa Alade won the best pupil in pre-basic three, while faith Akinpelu, Rahmat Afolabi went away with second and third prize respectively. Maryam Adeleke emerged the neatest pupil in the preparatory class.

•Oluwaferanmi Aderinto receiving the Award of well behaved boy in K.G 1 of Good Tidings •Suleiman Sherifdeen receiving the best stuNursery and Primary School, Dada Estate, dent award in KG 1 class of Zenith InternaOsogbo. tional School, Osogbo.

•The couple during the service.

(L-R) Chief of Staff to State of Osun Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola in a handshake with Former Speaker Osun State House of Assembly, Honourable Adejare Bello.

(R-L) Mrs Aderonke Akande; the graduand, Mr. Tomiwa Akande; Timilehin Akande and Tunde, during the graduation ceremony of Tomiwa from Good Tidings Collegiate School, Dada Estate, Osogbo, last Friday.

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

NEWS

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Nigeria Needs New Constitution, Not Amendment

By Ismaeel Uthman

piecemeal adjustments or amendments can only totally blot the essence of national values and accelerate the deamalgamation of Nigeria.

“All the angels coming from heavens cannot make that constitution work for the progress of Nigeria. It should only be scrapped as a bad relic of military mentality; and it

A former governor of Osun State, Chief Adebisi Akande has described the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the greatest misadventure of the country, saying that the law could not make the progress of Nigeria work.

Akande made call for corrupt practices and the replacement of the criminal impunities in constitution with the governance. The 1999 1963 Republican Constitution can never be Constitution to enable a beneficially reviewed transition for the writing and the ongoing of a suitable constitution.

The first interim ¼½½ ¾¿À ÁÂÃÀ½Ä ÅÆÇÈÂà ÉÊÆÇ national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) made the remarks at the presentation of a book titled “Nigeria: the Path We Refused to Take” written by Basorun Seinde Arogbofa in Akure.

He said, the 1999 constitution ‘can never be beneficially reviewed’, maintaining that the ongoing constitutional

By Gbenga Adeniyi amendments could only ‘totally blot the essence of Managements of the State of Osun Ministry of national values and Education and the State Universal Education Board accelerate the de- (SUBEB) have reiterated the commitment of amalgamation of Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration to Nigeria.” continue to develop strategies, including the review According to Akande, of curriculum, towards improving on the education the Nigerian constitution system in the state. breeds and protects Commissioner for become difficult for corrupt practices and impunity in governance, Education, Mr Kola critics to fairly fault the Omotunde-Young and investment of the adding that Nigeria began as a controversial the Chairman, Osun government on the SUBEB, Prince Felix education system, this state of many nations.

Akande said, “The Awofisayo gave the has placed a huge on the 1999 Constitution is commitment at a joint challenge Nigeria’s greatest meeting with officials of government on how to improve on the existing misadventure since SUBEB in Osogbo on standard.

Lugard’s amalgamation Tuesday.

According to him, the The duo said that of 1914. The constitution puts emphasis on though, the government government is working toward taking spending rather than had invested huge seriously education beyond making money, thereby resources on the knowledge transfer, to intensifying the battles education sector, but it c h a r a c t e r - b u i l d i n g , for supremacy between would continue to come critical and creative the legislature and the up with new ideas to thinking, productivity executive while the offer the best and build and problem-solving. judiciary is being students that are “What this corruptly tainted and empowered to compete government is working discredited. with their peers on is to take it from “The constitution anywhere in the world. teaching the child what to breeds and protects He said, though it has know, to helping the

heavens cannot make that constitution work for the progress of Nigeria.

•Chief Akande ought to be temporarily replaced with the 1963 Republican Constitution to enable a transition for

the writing of a suitable constitution.

“Otherwise, the 1999 constitution would continue to dwarf Nigeria’s economy and stifle the country’s social structure pending a disastrous and catastrophic bankruptcy.

Akande warned against criminal revolution in the country, calling on all Nigerians to begin the search for a better future, just as he prayed for farewell on the way out of the country’s present ‘Sorry pass’.

The APC chieftain also noted that the military

involvements in Nigerian politics for 29 out of 57 years of independence has drawn back and miniaturised the sense of democracy and good governance among Nigerian political leaders.

He stated that the military incursion into Nigerian politics has bastardised the political system so much that political discussions are no longer issue-based or interesting, warning that the situation has become very dangerous for the future of the societyparticularly among the growing youths.

Osun Govt To Develop More Initiatives For Osun Education Development

LAUTECH Unions Suit Against Forensic Auditing Shocking, Ill-Conceived ³ ´µ¶· ¸¹º» He added that the

By Ismaeel Uthman

The Osun State Government has expressed shock over the suit filed by the joint unions of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) to stop the auditing of the university’s accounts, as recommended by the visitation panel set up to investigate and find lasting solution to the crisis that has crippled the institution.

The government called said the state government on parents, students and found the suit filed by the shocking, other stakeholders to unions prevail and plead with unheard of, uncalled for the unions to stop and counter-productive frustrating sincere steps the suit filed by the of owner governments to unions at the Oyo State get LAUTECH back on High Court.

Baderinwa explained track, saying that it is unhappy and that the auditing of the uncomfortable with the LAUTECH, Ogbomoso was prolonged strike that has accounts kept the Nigeria’s future recommended by the Chief Wole Olanipekun leaders at home.

Osun State (SAN) led visitation Commissioner for panel, and the two owner Information and states had appointed a Strategy, Mr Adelani reputable accounting Baderinwa, in a press firm, KPMG firm to do statement on Sunday, the job.

LAUTECH unions, apart from chasing out the KPMG workers in the university, have persistently been working against the recommendations of the Olanipekun panel, except where the owner states are asked to raise fund.

The commissioner who noted that the owner states are eager to resolve issues involved in the institution’s crisis, urged the unions to be sincere and support the bid to get the school back on track, describing the suit by the unions as unpatriotic and ill-conceived.

According to Baderinwa, contrary to submission by the unions, the owner states have effective contractual agreement with KPMG on the forensic auditing job.

child to know how to think”, he said.

Omotunde-Young insisted that that government would look into everything that needed to be look into including curriculum for the development of the education sector.

Awofisayo on his own

said the administration of Aregbesola has shown commitment to the development of education, particularly at the basic level.

According to him, the commitment of the government towards prompt payment of its counterpart fund towards FGN/UBEC/ SUBEB projects has assisted the board to

record huge success in the education sector.

Also speaking, the SUBEB Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Fatai Kolawole said the Ministry of Education should look at the direction of putting in place curriculum that would consolidate the investment of the government in the education system.

•(L-R) Permanent Secretary, Osun SUBEB, Alhaji Fatai Kolawole; the SUBEB Chairman, Prince Felix Awofisayo and Commissioner for Education, Mr Kola Omotunde-Young.

Majority Of Osun Workers •Continued from page 2 Aregbesola who said he was aware of the insinuation being peddled by those he regarded as adversaries to incite the public against his administration, said, workers in the state have been paid up to June 2017 and his administration has done so much in prioritising the welfare of the workforce, a situation which, according to him has made a difference to the course of good governance.

“So, outside that category of workers on grade level 12 and above, no other receives half of his or her salaries.

“Contrary to what the naysayers claim about us, all workers in the state have received their salaries up to June this

year according to the payment scheme and agreement. The only outstanding salary in Osun is the month we are in and by the grace of God before the month end, workers will earn their salary in line with the agreement we have with workers.

“I am saying this to correct the impression of those spreading falsehood and capitalising on this that we have been defaulting on our responsibilities as regards the payment of workers’ salaries in accordance with the available resources.

The state helmsman noted that his administration has also been conscious of the welfare of pensioners, saying the state has paid pensioners their dues just as active workers have

been paid.

He added, “As we pay active workers, so we pay pensioners. The only outstanding pay to pensioners is the gratuity and this is due to workers who choose not to participate in the Contributory Pension Scheme and therefore left service in 2011/2012.

“The amount required to service that gratuity is about N5billion and we keep on telling them that once we have the capacity to so do, we will surely pay them.

“One thing that is certain about money is that once you don’t have it you cannot use it. It doesn’t mean we hate them; it’s because of the limited resources to pay them and meet physical expenditure”, the governor stressed.

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FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

Ë1

Australian High Commissioner Scores Aregbesola High In Education, Security The Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Paul Lehmann has said he was proud of the “unprecedented achievements” made by the Rauf Aregbesola-led administration in Osun in all aspects of governance.

This was as Osun and governance stands to Australian governments achieve. cemented partnership on The Australian High agricultural revolution.

Commissioner who led A statement by the other Australian Director, Bureau of representatives to Communication and Nigeria lauded the social Strategy, Semiu protection initiatives of Okanlawon quoted the Governor Aregbesola, a envoy as speaking during gesture which according a courtesy call to the to him remain one of the Governor in his office in best in the world.

Osogbo,saying, with The envoy what he saw Osun has commended the state taken a bold step in government of Osun for bringing to the people the reawakening the core dividends of consciousness of its democracy which people to the path of government and greatness, said his visit to

the state has given him an ample opportunity to be exposed to myriads of achievements made by A r e g b e s o l a ’ s government.

He said his tours to some of the projects already executed and completed by the A r e g b e s o l a ’ s government was a clear manifestation to the commitment which the state had made towards the development of humanity.

According to Lehmann, the Osun Governor has not only put into practice what government and governance represents, but also exhibited clearly

the role expected of any serious government in consciously rebranding the society and make it liveable for the its people.

The Australian High C o m m i s s i o n e r maintained that the continued support given to education by the state would no doubt, bring a brighter future to the state and as well enhance the capacity of the state economically, socially and politically as education remains the bedrock of development in any society.

Lehmann who identified education, agriculture and security as major areas to which the state had invested hugely on said, Osun has sincerely demonstrated that development could only be achieved in a society built on virile educational foundation.

“Educating young people will definitely revive the society and secure a better future for all because it is the only educated minds that advance the potentials of the society for the

By Kehinde Ayantunji you of country’s fruitful partnership for Osun to accomplish all her dreams”, he assured.

In his remarks, the Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola called for a symbiotic and collaborative partnership between Osun and Australian governments in mining, education, security and animal husbandry.

He said Australia being the world leader in mining and animal husbandry could be of greater supporter to the state in promoting and advancing the agricultural potentials of the state.

According to him, we want to collaborate with your government so as to properly harness our potentials in agriculture, mining and education sectors.

While commending the envoy for identifying with the achievements of the state, Aregbesola reassured his g o v e r n m e n t ’ s commitment to take Osun to an enviable heights that would be cherished globally.

benefits of all.

“I have gone round the town. I have seen some of the interventions of this administration in all sectors most especially in education, agriculture and security”, he said.

While assuring the state of partnership, the Australian High Commissioner said the country would support Osun government in mining sector, education, agriculture and security for the government to advance in its dreams for the people.

“I am here to know which area we can be of help to each other and as well advance our business and trade partnership.

“Australia is vast in mining, sports, agriculture, husbandry and education and for this singular reason my visit has made me to see the need to strengthen cooperation with your government on education, agriculture and other sensitive areas.

“Since the state is blessed with mineral resources, I am assuring

Osun RLG Adulawo Trains 5000 Youths On ICT •Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam (left) in a handshake with Australian Ambassador, Paul Lehmann during a courtesy visit to the Speaker’s office on Tuesday.

The RLG Adulawo Technology City in partnership with the government of the State of Osun has trained about 5,000 indigenes of Osun in Information and Communication Technology, particularly in assemblage of technological devices.

The company located Government and the in Ilesa, was established technological firm based through a partnership in Ghana in 2014.

According to the between the Osun programme’s production supervisor, Mr Abdulrasaq Oshidipe, some road users that are the RLG Adulawo is a fun of hiding under the support facility to aid guise that vehicle government’s plan on particulars registration is OYESTECH, an cheaper in some Information and neighbouring state C o m m u n i c a t i o n compare to the rate in Technology branch of the Osun, saying, there is need Osun Youth for harmonisation of such Empowerment Scheme rates.

(OYES).

According to him, the He said, as of today, claim was later found faulty and baseless as the company which has a mobile phone investigation to neighbouring states assemblage plant has 5,000 showed that the same trained scenario plays out in their beneficiaries of the OYES scheme with an territories. additional training of 100 young individuals for Criminal Code Cap 34 advanced tutoring at the vol.II laws of Osun State of company’s headquarters in Ghana.

Nigeria 2003.

“Aside the 5,000 The suspect who was arraigned on a two-count individuals trained and the 100 sent for advanced charge, pleaded not guilty to the allegations against training overseas, the company has also her.

The defense counsel, recruited an additional Sulaiman Akano applied 150 manpower based and for the bail of the accused trained earlier in the state person and the presiding to create more jobs as magistrate, O.A. Olayode, well as to stimulate its granted the accused bail in operations. the sum of N100,000 with “As a leading two sureties in like sum. manufacturer of He then adjourned the smartphones, tablets and case till 3rd of August, other devices in Nigeria, 2017 for hearing.

South-West States, Others Meet On Harmonised IGR Conditions go beyond having

By Francis Ezediuno resolutions on some Governments of Osun, Ekiti, Kwara, Ondo and Oyo peculiarities that would state have resolved to pursue common interest towards not entertain the whole the improvement of their Internally Generated parts of taxes, just as he for mutual Revenue (IGR) for the development of their various called agreements among the states. participants to have rate This came to the fore administration as its that would be convenient when the Revenue impetus, saying, the major for road users in order to Generation drivers in the way any developmental discourage them from states, led by the Special agenda could be realised is going to neighbouring Adviser to Osun Governor through the ability of states due to discrepancies on Tax and Revenue government to harness in rates.

Matters, Mr. Gbenga resources for such While briefing the Akano paid a courtesy development. governor on the reason visit to Governor Rauf The governor then behind the meeting, Aregbesola shortly after urged the participants to Akano said that there are some unanimous decisions were reached at a meeting on vehicle particulars.

By Oladele Kehinde Addressing the visiting IGR drivers, Aregbesola A woman, Temitope Victoria has been arraigned said that the awaited time before an Osogbo magistrate court presided over by when conglomeration of Magistrate O.A. Oloyade for fraud and stealing.

Chairmen Board of The prosecutor, Ajayi contrary to and Internal Revenue in states of the federation, would Sunday told the court that punishable under section interface to have a the accused person 390 (9) of Criminal Code unanimous decision on committed the offence in Cap 34 Vol.II Laws of Osun State of Nigeria how to shore up IGR has May, 2016.

According to the charge 2003. been actualised. sheet, the accused person According to the It was said that the governor, the only Temitope Victoria in May, accused also fraudulently functioning apparatus to 2016 at Alekuwodo area, obtained a sum of N50,000 translate ideas of Osogbo stole N50,000, from Shakirat and thereby government to effective belonging to one Olaniyan committed an offence implementation is money Shakirat and thereby contrary and punishable with effective Tax committed an offence under section 421 of

Man Arraigned For Stealing N50,000

the company recently won a contract worth $31.5M to manufacture TV Set-Up Boxes for the entire federation.

“The TV Boxes are to complement federal government’s efforts at ensuring Nigeria’s speedy compliance with the worldwide Digital Switch Over policy in B r o a d c a s t i n g Corporations.

Initiated by the State Government of Osun under the leadership of Governor Rauf Aregbesola, the RLG Adulawo, Nigeria is set to break into international limelight with the production of quality technological materials and complement the present administration’s bid to fast track the development of Osun.

Reacting, one of the beneficiaries, Anthonia Ogundare lauded the state government for the opportunity given her and many others to be part of the programme, adding that the programme has made youths in the state productive.

“I am a beneficiary of this programme. I applied for OYESTECH scheme and was chosen among those to be trained in Ghana for a month internship. On our return, we were employed at Adulawo Technology.

ÌÍ OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

OAU Union President, Financial Secretary Tender Public Apology Over School Bus Controversies

By Adejumo Kabir After the expiration of two weeks suspension of the Students’ Union President, of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile- Ife, Oyekan Ibukun and the Financial Secretary, Omisakin Kehinde, the duo have apologised publicly to students of the university.

The two executive constitutional breaches in members were recently the procurement of the suspended by the union controversial Union Bus. Omisakin in his S t u d e n t s ’ Representatives Council apology said, if the over alleged process that led to the

procurement of the bus had been more transparent, the controversy that generated would not have occurred.

He said, “While I am committed to ensuring this does not happen again, I strongly believe the best apology I could ever tender is to be open and transparent in all financial dealings

•The controversial bus

henceforth. To that effect, a copy of the union’s income and expenditures from inauguration till date will be made available before the end of the week along with statement of account”, Omisakin said.

Also, the President of the Union, Oyekan Ibukun, in his apology statement promised not to make future procedural error.

“No one is happier than I am that the bus purchased is being investigated by a committee set up by the house.

He further reiterated his earlier position that if he is found to have committed any financial crime; he would not hesitate to step down as president.

It would be recalled that the SRC has setup an investigative committee to vigilantly scrutinize the purchase of the bus which has divided students of the institution.

FEDPOFFA Students Lament Epileptic Power Supply

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As the second semester examinations of the Federal Polytechnic Offa, slated for July 7 draw nearer, students residing at Abuja area of the town have called on the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to come to their aid on the supply of power in the area.

One of the students, who spoke with the OSUN DEFENDER Campus Review, Abiola

Abioye said, the area has been in a black out for the past four weeks.

He attributed the

black out in the area to the transformer of the area which developed fault and had since been evacuated.

“The only thing we saw was that the transformer developed a fault and it had been taken away since then.

Campus Journalists Hold Inter Faculty Debate, Induction August 3

By Adejumo Kabir

The Association of Campus Journalists, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, is set to hold inter faculty debate and induction ceremony.

This was contained in Also, induction a statement made ceremony for new available to reporters, members of the signed by the Public association will come up Relations Officer of the on Saturday, 15th of Association, Oye Ola August at New Faculty Oladimeji. of Administration The association Building on OAU announced that the inter campus. faculty debate would on They also appealed to Thursday, 3rd of agencies and members August at Faculty of that are yet to register or Education Board Room, renew their membership OAU. to do so before the July

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That I formerly known as TIAMIYU GBADAMOSI, now wish to be known and addressed as ODEYEMI TIAMIYU OLAIYA. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note of this.

ABDULRAHMAN KEHINDE ABDULQUADRI, KADIRI ABDULRAHMON TEMITOPE is the same person as KADIRI ABDULRAHMON TEMITOPE. I now wish to be known and addressed as KADIRI ABDULRAHMON TEMITOPE. All former documents remain valid.

GTBank and general public should take note.

29, 2017 deadline.

Up till now, there is no any information on the time the transformers would be returned neither do we have any information on when we will have light.

“As we all know, students need stable power supply, at least to an extent during examination period for us to be able to read and in the next two weeks our examination will start.

“We appealed to the IBEDC to come to our aid”, he lamented.

Students’ Protest Force FUOYE Management To Extend Dean’s Tenure The protest by the students of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has forced the management of the university to extend the tenure of its outgoing Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr Olugbenga Adeyemi, till the end of 2017.

The protest has also protesters prevented compelled the staff from entering the management to agree to campus for academic non-academic the conduct of SUG and election which would activities.

They called for the hold in the next three i m m e d i a t e weeks. and The students have reinstatement protested against an extension of the tenure of the out-going Dean, Dr alleged extortionist, a Olugbenga Adeyemi, lecturer in the saying they preferred his institution, Dr Dosu style of leadership to the Malomo, who is also the acting dean.

Acting Dean, Students’ The Speaker, Affairs, demanding his Students’ Representative immediate removal.

Council, Victor They were also Akinnibosun, who spoke demanding that the on behalf of the students, institution’s authorities said there would not be should put necessary 2016/2017 second machinery in motion semester examinations the elected that would facilitate the until conduct of elections into members of students’ its Students’ Union union government are Government (SUG), inaugurated.

The protesters, saying, they would not sit for their examinations however, removed the barricade shortly after a until the SUG is brief meeting between inaugurated.

Students The students have the Representative, Council alleged Malomo, of and the management of collecting N500 each the university. from some students Akinnibosun and Dr under the pretence that Adeyemi while jointly he would organise briefing the students tutorial for them without about the resolutions issuing them receipts. reached at the meeting, Though, the students’ said the meeting had protest was peaceful, it agreed to extend his was reported that the tenure as Dean, Students blocking of the main gate Affairs till the end of of the institution by the 2017.

OAU Will Continue To Progress Sequel to the bail of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, former Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Anthony Elujoba, the university Vice Chancellor, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede has announced the resolution of the university to ensure things are done in the right way for the progress of the institution.

Prof. Elujoba after the addressing the workers bail granted him by Osun and students at the State High Court, Amphitheatre said, the Osogbo, proceeded to university will put all its Our Lady of Perpetual arsenal together to Light Catholic Church for ensure it is never thanksgiving and later dragged back. proceeded to the While the VC was university Amphitheatre addressing the workers, a to express appreciation to drama ensued, as the workers and students workers began to shout who stood by him while “don’t join them, don’t he was in EFCC custody. join them, don’t join Elujoba was them”. accompanied by more In apparent response, than 1000 students and Ogunbodede said: “let workers. me assure you because I Ogunbodede while can hear you singing that

•Ogunbodede, OAU VC I should not join them. I want to officially tell you today that, this is my 40th year in this university. I came to this university in 1977, and you know my antecedents.

“Have I ever joined them, “the bad eggs”?

Anybody who has ever been a witness of what

has happened on this campus in the last one and a half years will never join those who destabilise students’ calendar and refuse staff their salaries” He commended the workers and students for their orderliness during the trial of the ex Acting VC. “It is because of your maturity, it is because of your comportment and it is because of the way you have handled this situation and I personally want to commend you for what you have done and I want to appeal to you that we should never allow anybody to provoke us, we should continue to act with maturity”, he said.

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org êë

HEALTH

Group Deworms Over 1000 Children, Adults More than 1000 children and adults have been dewormed freely in some major towns of OlaOluwa Local Government Area of the State of Osun.

The free deworming The Executive Director exercise which was of the health Initiative, carried out in seven Mr Adebayo Muritala towns, was sponsored by Ayofe said the the Ayofe Health deworming exercise of Awareness Initiative in which the first edition collaboration with the was carried out in Medicare Trust February this year, was a Foundation in Nigeria. humanitarian service to

the beneficiary communities.

He said, “This is a humanitarian service to the communities. I am from Bode-Osi and I love my community and its environs. You will remember that similar free health care service was done earlier this year within the same local government. The service

•The dewormed children during the exercise.

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Diagnosis And Chance Of Survival

Recently, the Nigerian number one Goal keeper, Carl Ikeme who plays for Wolverhampton Wanderers was diagnosed of Acute Leukaemia after he underwent a routine blood check at his club.

While the news may be may help to know some heart-rendering to many basics about normal who are football fans in blood cells and how they Nigeria, in this piece, Dr. are made.

Blood cells Ohis Ogwogho a These can be seen HaematologistOncologist revealed what under a microscope and Leukaemia is, the need to make up of about 40% of examine this disease, the blood’s volume. how it can he diagnosed Blood cells are divided and if there is any chance into three main types: I. Red cells of survival for sufferers. (erythrocytes). These A General Overview Leukaemia is a cancer make blood a red colour. of blood-forming cells One drop of blood and it is in different contains about five types. If one develop million red cells. Red Leukaemia, it is cells contain chemical important to know what called haemoglobin. This type it is. This is because binds to oxygen, and the outlook (prognosis) takes oxygen from the and treatments vary for lungs to all parts of the the different types. The body.

II. White cells word Leukaemia comes from a Greek word which (leukocytes). There are different types of white means ‘white blood’.)

It is a cancer of cells in cells, which are called the bone marrow (the n e u t r o p h i l s cells which develop into ( p o l y m o r p h s ) , blood cells). Cancer is a l y m p h o c y t e s , disease of the cells in the eosinophils, monocytes, body. There are many and basophils. They are types of cancer which part of the immune arise from different types system. Their main role is of cell. What all cancers to defend the body have in common is that against infections.

III. Platelets. These are the cancer cells are abnormal and do not tiny and help the blood to clot if we cut ourselves. rewind to normal control Plasma mechanisms.

Large This is the liquid part numbers of cancer cells build up because they of blood and makes up about 60% of the blood’s multiply ‘out of control’, or because they live volume. Plasma is mainly much longer than normal made from water, but contains many proteins cells, or both.

With Leukaemia, the and other chemicals, such cancerous cells in the as hormones, antibodies, bone marrow spill out enzymes, glucose, fat into the bloodstream. particles and salts.

When blood spills from Most types of Leukaemia arise from cells which your body (or a blood normally develop into sample is taken into a white blood cells. Before plain glass tube) the cells discussing the different and certain plasma types of Leukaemia it proteins clump together

to form a clot. The remaining clear fluid is called serum.

The Bone Marrow, Stem Cells And Blood Cell Production Bone marrow Blood cells are made in the bone marrow by ‘stem’ cells. The bone marrow is the soft ‘spongy’ material in the centre of bones. The large flat bones, such as the pelvis and breastbone (sternum), contain the most bone marrow. To make blood cells constantly you need a healthy bone marrow.

You also need nutrients from your diet, including iron and certain vitamins.

Stem cells Stem cells are primitive (immature) cells. There are two main types in the bone marrow - myeloid and lymphoid stem cells. These derive from even more primitive common ‘pluripotential’ stem cells.

Stem cells constantly divide and produce new cells. Some new cells remain as stem cells and others go through a series of maturing stages (‘precursor’ or ‘blast’ cells) before forming into mature blood cells.

Mature blood cells are released from the bone marrow into the bloodstream.

Blood production You make millions of blood cells every day.

Each type of cell has an expected lifespan. For example, red blood cells normally last about 120 days. Some white blood cells last just hours or days - some last longer.

Every day, millions of blood cells die and are broken down at the end •To be continued

is to complement government’s work. I believe health is wealth and that is the reason behind this frequent deworming exercise”, he said.

Identifying worms’ infestation as very dangerous to the body, he explained that worms’ infestations had many bad effects on the children’s health which ranged from stunt growth to brain damage and possible death.

Ayofe pointed out that many children suffered worm infestation, but their parents ignorantly treated malaria which eventually complicated the health status of such child.

“In February when we initiated the first medical outreach in Bode-Osi, we dewormed over 450 children and adults.

Although, we had planned to deworm about 5000 children and adults, only 1,436 people came out for this exercise.”

“We are also planing to organise another health care service soon. It is our hope that parents will bring out their children and wards for the exercise,” Ayofe added.

One of the volunteer medical doctors for the health service, Dr. Abdulwasii Daud also described the initiative as a worthy one that has the potential of saving children from danger, saying, “worm endangers children lives, it feeds on them and reduces their blood content and that could cause death. Deworming also aids the nutritional status of children.”

Omolara Isreal, one of the beneficiaries who brought her five children for the deworming exercise commended the organisers of the programme adding that it was a very laudable one.

“We are happy to have this kind of programme in our community. I am grateful to the organisers, I pray God bless them and continue to enrich them”, said another.

Another beneficiary, Rabiu Rasaq who also came with two of his children said that the programme brought relief to many of the rural dwellers, saying, “Children used to die needlessly because there were no free health care services like this. I really commend the organisers for this programme, may God bless them abundantly.”

Professor Olufisayo Ologunde, the President of Ola Oluwa Local Government Indigenes Forum noted that the programme was not only worthwhile, but highly rewarding.

With FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

Controlling High Blood Pressure (IV) •Continued from last edition Don’t smoke. Tobacco injures blood vessel walls and speeds up the process of hardening of the arteries.

If you smoke, ask your doctor to help you quit.

Manage stress. Reduce Omega-3 fatty acids, stress as much as possible. found in fatty fish, fish oil Practice healthy coping supplements or flaxseed. techniques, such as While it’s best to muscle relaxation, deep include these breathing or meditation. supplements in your diet Getting regular physical as foods, you can also take activity and plenty of supplement pills or sleep can help, too. capsules. Talk to your Monitor your blood doctor before adding any pressure at home. Home of these supplements to blood pressure your blood pressure monitoring can help you treatment.

Some keep closer tabs on your supplements can interact blood pressure, show if with medications, causing medication is working, harmful side effects, such and even alert you and as an increased bleeding your doctor to potential risk that could be fatal. complications. Home You can also practice blood pressure relaxation techniques, monitoring isn’t a such as deep breathing or substitute for visits to meditation, to help you your doctor, and home relax and reduce your blood pressure monitors stress level.

These may have some practices may temporarily limitations. Even if you get reduce your blood normal readings, don’t pressure. stop or change your Coping and support medications or alter your High blood pressure diet without talking to isn’t a problem that you your doctor first. can treat and then ignore.

If your blood pressure It’s a condition you need is under control, you may to manage for the rest of be able to make fewer your life. To keep your visits to your doctor if you blood pressure under monitor your blood control: pressure at home.

Take your medications Practice relaxation or properly. If side effects or slow, deep breathing. costs pose problems, don’t Practice taking deep, slow stop taking your breaths to help relax. medications. Ask your There are some devices doctor about other available that promote options. slow, deep breathing.

Schedule regular doctor However, it’s visits. It takes a team effort questionable whether to treat high blood these devices have a pressure successfully. significant effect on Your doctor can’t do it lowering your blood alone, and neither can pressure. you. Work with your Control blood pressure doctor to bring your blood during pregnancy. If pressure to a safe level, you’re a woman with high and keep it there. blood pressure, discuss Adopt healthy habits. with your doctor how to Eat healthy foods, lose control your blood excess weight and get pressure during regular physical activity. pregnancy.

Limit alcohol. If you Alternative medicine smoke, quit.

Although diet and Manage stress. Say no exercise are the most to extra tasks, release appropriate tactics to negative thoughts, lower your blood maintain good pressure, some relationships, and remain supplements also may patient and optimistic. help lower it. However, Sticking to lifestyle more research is needed to changes can be difficult, determine the potential especially if you don’t see benefits. These include: or feel any symptoms of Fiber, such as blond high blood pressure. If psyllium and wheat bran you need motivation, Minerals, such as remember the risks magnesium, calcium and associated with potassium uncontrolled high blood Folic acid pressure. It may help to Supplements or enlist the support of your products that increase family and friends as well. nitric oxide or widen blood vessels Dr. Sunday Abiodun (vasodilators), such as Ojenuwah is a Consultant cocoa, coenzyme Q10, L- Nephrologist, University arginine or garlic College Hospital, Ibadan.

ôõ OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

By Wasiu Babalola

The yearning and aspiration of tax payers towards the era of positive change that would rescue them from the burden of multiple taxation has eventually come. This is as a result of the introduction of Tax Identification Number (TIN) for all taxable entities being recently initiated by the Joint Tax Board in collaboration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the 36 State of Boards of Internal Revenue Service (SBIRS).

One may therefore ask about the Joint Tax Board and more importantly the responsibility it is saddled with.

The Joint Tax Board is a national body created by the defunct income Tax Management Act of 1961, now the personal income Tax Cap P.8, LFN 2004.

It is saddled with the responsibility of issuing and administrating TINs to all taxable entities in Nigeria among other functions.

Meanwhile, Tax Identification Number by its definition is a 10 digit Identification Number that is unique to each identified taxpayer in Nigeria.

It was launched by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Thursday, 5th of April, 2012 at the Council Chambers in Abuja, along with a harmonised National Tax Policy. On the 8th of May, 2014, Tax Identification Number was signed into law by the then Minister of Finance and coordinating Minister of Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala.

The regulation was subsequently gazetted on the 9th of May, 2014, and fully has the backings of the law.

The aim and objective behind this

TAX MATTERS

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

The Need For TIN

ax registration activities for all taxable entities are also germane to the TIN initiative and above all, are to abolish tax errors such as double counting or multiple taxation on taxpayers, hence, the essence of sensitisation. ö

initiative is to create a National platform for the registration and the allocation of a unique identified number to all tax payers to aid effective tax registration and to automate effectively efficient tax processes.

Tax registration activities for all taxable entities are also germane to the TIN initiative and above all, are to abolish tax errors such as double counting or multiple taxation on taxpayers, hence, the essence of sensitisation.

Meanwhile, the State of Osun, under the leadership of Ogbeni Rauf

Aregbesola, having fulfilled its own part of the deal by paying the counterpart fund of N86 million, has set a conducive ground for the smooth running of the registration exercise in term of the procurement of all needed equipment with a free of charge registration for the prospective taxpayers.

However, every taxable entity, be it individual or cooperate organisations is therefore urged to bring along any valid means of Identification like Drivers license, International passport, National identification card e.t.c to register and

•GBENGA AKANO: SA to the Governor on Tax and Revenue Matters

be captured within the tax net.

To register, such taxable individuals and organisations can visit only the designated Tax Identification Number office under the Osun Internal Revenue Service, Finance Building, Secretariat Complex, Abere, Osogbo.

It is paramount to note that social services regulated by the Federal, State and Local government, such as the provision of pension, driver’s license, bank transactions among other have incorporated Tax Identification Number as a prerequisite for access to such services, which means that it is unavoidably needed for all taxable individuals and organisation as well.

The earlier we register, the better it aids our daily transaction.

•Babalola is the Information Officer, Osun Internal Revenue Service.

What To Pack For A Weekend Getaway It can be very easy to get carried away when packing for a short trip with day and night activities, as determining the amount of outfits to pack could be endless. All you have to do is pack a few key transitional items that can seamlessly take you from day to night and can be integrated into variety of situations.

If you aren’t typically, a lady that dresses in neutral throw in pops of colour by including colourful accessories or pretty hues that go with any colour in your suitcase, e.g red, blue, yellow etc.

The most important part of packing for a small trip is to have slightly more than what you need, not too much more because clutter will cause a heavier load and disorganisation, but being overly prepared is better than being under prepared. The best way is to go through your everyday routine and pack your clothing and toiletries according to that.

It is not news that every lady likes to pack more than what is required for an outing or short vacation, but always remember that space is limited and the idea is to make do with less space.

The first thing I believe you do is to make a list. Obviously you know where you are going, which activities you expect to fill your weekend with. Write down all the essentials you need or go through it in your head - clothing, toiletries, electronics, money, identification, tooth brush and tooth paste, phone and charger

facilitate a smooth and safe trip. Make sure WITH you have this information written down and accessible from your phone.

E.g, your passport if you would dress shoes for any other evening activity be leaving the country, the or relaxing. name, phone number and Always bring along extra underwear. address of the hotel or home you As a lady, you should always pack at would be staying, emergency least, two extra underwears when going contact of anyone at home. on a short trip, in case, your get surprised Set out only the clothes you by your menstrual circle, drenched from need then build from there. the rain or you partake in a sweaty Bring as many changes of activity. clothing as you’ll need and Packing the right and necessary things consider bringing one extra for a short trip eases the stress of having outfit if it can fit in. Determine the number to carry heavy luggage, prevents of outfits you will need for each day, not disorganisation and as well create space the number of outfits you want to have. just, in case you want to do a little The additional outfit would help in case shopping when returning. of an emergency, like if you get drenched from the rain and the day isn’t over yet. You should also be aware of the weather, plan your clothing around the climate of your vacation spot, as you don’t want to pack the completely wrong clothes and be miserable during what is supposed to be a fun weekend.

If it is going to be cold, then you must pack sweatshirts, if it’s going to be warm, pack shorts and T shirts.

Bring along the right shoes.

You have to consider the activities that you will be doing accordingly, try to limit yourself to two pairs of shoes, bring one pair for walking and one pair for another activity, flip-flops for beach, heels or

TEMITOPE AKINYELE

etc.

Consider how much luggage you will need. If you would only be gone for a weekend, you should be able to fit everything you will need into a backpack or a small suitcase. Put your books (if you would be taking any), electronics and immediate necessities into a small backpack for easy access. Pack clothing and other space intensive items into a light bag or suitcase. Choose your luggage before you pack so that the available space can help you with the decision process.

Consider which electronics you will need. Are you travelling to a place with less cell service? Will you actually spend any time on your computer if you carry it along? Will you be listening to music on your way there? Will you be needing a camera? Make sure you bring along batteries and extra chargers if you would be going on a long journey.

Carry along with you Identifications.

Travel with information and emergency contact information which will help you

FRIDAY JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

ISSUES/POLICY

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org ÷ø

We're Confident Of Judicious Application Of Paris Club Refunds ùúûüýþ ÿP û û Adelugba is the Chairman of the Triangular Group of Pensioners in the State of Osun and in this encounter with FRANCIS EZEDIUNO, he revealed why they have been succeeding in their interactions with the state government and other sundry issues.

OSDF: What does your group stands have been bought over? for?

We are sure that the ADELUGBA: The 2011/2012 Group ADELUGBA: Triangular Group of of Pensioners have used all media refunds would be spent available Pensioners is a group that believes in to them to discredit us that we dialogue with government. We are are government sponsored, whereas, wisely due to the more or less a pressure group that calls they are the ones who are being for the right and welfare of all engagement we have sponsored by the Peoples’ Democratic pensioners in the State of Osun.

Party (PDP). had with the OSDF: It seems some characters in a It is established that they are card group of pensioners have resolved to be carrying members of the PDP, because government and the tackling government on all issues, will we know ourselves. If they claim that you say your group supports or against foundation that have we are government sponsored, let them government on all issues? that they are not PDP been laid, because it is deny ADELUGBA: We are not against the members. Inasmuch as we are not in the government but anywhere anything civil service and we are free to go part of the agreements into politicsagain goes wrong about the administration, and chose out of the 45 particularly the present one, we engage political parties in the country, we we reached with the the government officials on the way out, believe in discussion and we do not buy we make suggestion on where government as the the idea of confrontation. correction need to be made and they OSDF: Is that protest by some Triangular Group of have always taken our advice. pensioners against the government OSDF: What is your take on the healthy?

Pensioners. division within the Osun NUP? ADELUGBA: The process of ADELUGBA: In Osun, we have the National Union of Pensioners (NUP), the umbrella body of pensioners and there is Forum of 2011/2012 Pensioners under the NUP. We could not arrive at a specific agreement because we feel that a section is taking personal interest above collective interest of pensioners in the state. Our ideas differ and so there was a split. We are also members of the 2011/2012 group of pensioners but we separated from them due to ideological differences.

OSDF: What is your take on the recently released second tranche of the Paris Club Refund?

ADELUGBA: It was N6.314 billion

•Prince Adelugba

and was released last week and we are confident that the state government would spend it judiciously to pay both the pensioners and salary arrears. It is certain that all the expenditures cannot be met with the refund, but we are engaging the government to try and spend the refunds judiciously.

We are sure that the refunds would be spent wisely due to the engagement we have had with the government and the foundation that have been laid, because it is part of the agreements we reached with the government as the Triangular Group of Pensioners.

We are in good rapport with the

government.

Anytime we need anything, we always dialogue with them and try as much as possible to avoid confrontation. That is the belief of my group because we are peace loving.

OSDF: Can the disagreement among the pensioners be resolved?

ADELUGBA: Resolving the issue depends on if they agree to come to the round table with government. The 2011/2012 Group of Pensioners started as a result of the advancing age of some pensioners and so we decided that we the younger ones should carry on the struggle.

OSDF: Is it true that both groups

confrontation, which they have adopted is not healthy. That is their belief but we have been succeeding with dialogue. Do you know that it was due to our influence that the government paid the pension arrears?

If only they can adopt dialogue, there will not be any problem with the government.

OSDF: What is your advice to the government?

ADELUGBA: We advise the government to use the Paris Club Refund to settle all the necessary financial obligations. Very soon the result will come out and I am convinced that pensioners will be satisfied.

Internet Fraudsters And The Celebration Of Wealth

By Abdullahi Akintayo The internet has become a powerful social and economic force, which has in turn developed different usefulness.

Unfortunately, Nigerians have been marked around the world for scamming, as plenty of scammers and scamming ideas are evolving tirelessly everyday.

Many of the youths in one way or the other these days engage in internet fraud and nicknamed after the international websites and search engines, “Yahoo Yahoo”.

Years back, internet fraud was carried out at some public internet cafés, days when computer accessories and internet services were not easy to acquire. However, due to regular raids on these cafés and arrest of suspected fraudsters by the police, internet fraudsters moved their bases. Also, the rapid increase of internet service providers in Nigeria has made it easier for internet fraudsters to commit the crime. It is now as simple as buying internet modem and surfing the internet in their comfort zones.

It is of no surprise that the evolvement of “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, which is more or less the celebration of wealth, has motivated youths’ involvement in internet fraud.

A big question to ask is that can the Nigerian youths be blamed for the menace in a society that celebrates and praises wealthy ones without questioning and having adequate information about how legit the source of their wealth is? These youths see a leadership that does not care about their future; hence, they simply use their little knowledge to find means of survival.

The legacy has been set by their elders in the lane of politics, business,

entertainment, etc. who show that crime pays.

Studies have shown that peer pressure, frustration and intimidation are the first driven force that lures the youths’ into internet fraud before other factors such as family, religion, music and several others.

Family and religion have indirectly contributed to the growth of internet fraud in Nigeria in such a way that family and religion repute their wealthy members. The wealthy fraudsters are applauded as regards their financial contributions to the group. This could lead to intimidation of other members.

Nigerian music has in one way or the other supported the involvement of youths in internet fraud. During the early age of internet fraud in Nigeria, the song, “Yahooze” by Olu Maintain was one popular song that talked about “some people who come to this life to work, and some come to collect/spend money”. Also, a song by Kelly Handsome “Maga Don Pay” meaning

“A victim has paid”. These songs went viral without considering the implications of the contents. These songs have been revived recently by Qdot and 9ice by using a key phrase “Cha Che”. These kinds of music ought to have been banned in its early age but the Nigerian Music Industry Censor Board prefer to look at the other direction.

Do we really have law enforcement agencies that can curb the youths’ participation in internet fraud in Nigeria? Yes, we do. How effective are these agencies? That is rhetorical. We definitely have agencies that can help to reduce or totally eradicate youths’ involvement in internet fraud, but most turn out to be the motivator. Rather than focusing on the perpetrators which the security agents know, going by their trainings, several cases have been reported in relation to the misconduct and assault of government agents on innocent youths. They invade the privacy of youths by checking through

their phones and laptops’ files, even atimes they burst into their homes without following the legal procedure.

These are illegal act perpetrated by government officials and the end goal is to get their cut from the pocket of whoever falls in their nets. It has been established that internet fraudsters pay government and bank officials to avoid any form of disturbance.

Many of the government intervention programmes that focus on youth empowerment have not really helped in diverting the mind of the youths from internet fraud to entrepreneurship and skill acquisition. Most of these programmes offered by government should have yielded a lasting effect on the lives and conducts of these youths.

They agitate for money, materials, want to live without financial oppression and comfort if not luxurious life.

Apparently, they do things that bring in money in short run and this has led to the increase in internet fraud and other illegal acts in Nigeria. By so doing, they in their desperacy to acquire underserved wealth engage in ritualism. These they tagged as “Yahoo Plus”. And few years back, cases of kidnap, ritual killings have become rampant and to douse this unrest, the family first, government, religious leaders, teachers and all other stakeholders need to be on their toes to curb this menace alongside all other vices it carries along.

It is important that the government put in place mechanism that will bring succor to the lives of the people, particularly the youths to suppress frustration and intimidation they are going through after years of schooling without job. This to an extent would reduce the rate of internet fraud.

We're Confident Of Judicious Application Of Paris Club Refunds - "#$%&'()

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F Y JULY 28 - THURSDAY AUGUST 3, 2017

Isaac Olusesi Writes That Over Ambitiously Endemic Protests Over Paris Club Loan Refunds Would Not Trade-off Harsh Realities Of Expedient Hardship And Sacrifice The Development Process Entails, Enthusing That The Retirees Ought To Always Make Cautious Efforts To Let-loose Gently Pent-up Anger To Conserve The Already Spent Energy In Them For Survival In These Days Of Global Austerity, Global Diseases And Consequential Tight Reins In Nigeria When Meals Are Oblong Instead Of Square.

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â&#x20AC;˘A group of pensioners in Osun, solidarising with the state government. government and that he had allegedly diverted the refunds. The Osun peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspirations increased dramatically in more ways than one as consequence.

But the Osun retirees goofed around and goofed off! Their claim was a flawed reflection of the abysmal, dizzy and miserable plunge into the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current affairs, a dismal, lopsided and gloomy profile that practically misguided the general public, a preponderance of opinion against the retireesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; street protest. The claim was nothing but a flotsam of damaged truth, debris of misinformation, baseless allegation, unpolished lie and a mere chunk of noises from the supposedly senior citizens of the state. It is case of the retirees sinning against Osun than being sinned against.

And when a few days ago, Monday July 17, 2017 the 2nd tranche of the loan refunds came and Osun government promptly announced the receipt of the refunds, the governor literally escaped the retireesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scalpel. But the protesting retirees had themselves shamefully pulled down from the pedestal of seeming integrity to the denizen of shame. The government convincingly declared its commitment to deploy the refunds â&#x20AC;&#x153;in the best interest of the concerned stakeholders.â&#x20AC;?

What care from the Osun pensioners with the proficiency of a stubborn customer, only oiled the wheel of hypocrisy and raised the dogged

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OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

Of Retirees And Paris Club Loan Refunds Think of what it would mean if everybody is of the same Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and then, think of what it would have meant if everybody were to be part of the epidemic protests by retirees, playing political blitzkrieg and putting all manner of spanners in the sure disbursement of the Paris Club Loan refunds in all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). By that, the pensioners in some states in Nigeria have only drawn the sword of partisan wrangling from the scabbard and appropriated the task of aggressive mobilisation of themselves and the citizens against the state governments.

And as the nation has not recorded really impressive growth and development, such over no space ambitiously endemic protests over money would not trade-off harsh realities of expedient hardship and sacrifice the development process entails, but could regrettably push the State Government to the elbow room of facile options in the loan refundsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; disbursement.

It is important here that money is, but one element in the complex process of growth and development, other crucial elements including discipline and rational resource management will propel the statesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; economies to self-sustaining, away from the fragility of their current fabrics in the face of global economic recess and tight reins in Nigeria. This is the more reason Nigerians across the federated states must have to make necessary sacrifice for real economic growth and development.

In the State of Osun exampli gratia, retirees ironically ignited thundering rumble of ear-blocking rancour, bitterness and precipitated high decibel of ear-shattering murmurings over the loans refunds. Osun retirees under the aegis of 2011/2012 Pensioners Forum have clearly acquired the reputation and attribute of incomprehensibility, as the forum last month, June 2017, characteristically acted political opposition to the Rauf Aregbesola government in the state when its members ad nauseam, swooped on the office of the Governor, violated the serenity of the premises, chanted war songs, and openly incapacitated the civil servants on duty.

The protesters infra dignitatem, misled the Osun public on the loan refunds when they claimed albeit, erroneously that the 2nd tranche of the loan refunds had been released to Aregbesola by the federal

The protesters infra dignitatem, misled the Osun public on the loan refunds when they claimed albeit, erroneously that the 2nd tranche of the loan refunds had been released to Aregbesola by the federal government and that he had allegedly diverted the refunds. hypocrisy to the status of religious virtues.

Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;demand of unreserved apology from the retirees for wrongly accusing the governorâ&#x20AC;? is needless. But because Osun would no longer stand karat nugget of drivel and Babel, as though, Osun of recent is fast getting used to blabber months, noises of confusion sewn into threads of street protests, the direct appeal should have been that the pensioners should be honest and patriotic in their dealings with the government.

Street protesters, agitators, the world over are into heinous and treacherous

crime and have a noose dangling above their recalcitrant heads. It is for them that the caution: â&#x20AC;&#x153;make haste slowlyâ&#x20AC;? was invented. The Osun protesting retirees ought to always make cautious efforts at letting-loose gently pent-up anger to conserve what remains of the energy in them for survival in these days of global austerity and diseases when old people of the world are becoming emaciated and meals are oblong instead of square. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Silence, for the elderly is wisdomâ&#x20AC;Ś..â&#x20AC;? said Thomas Fuller (1608-1661) an English Clergyman, author and wit, in his first book of sermons: Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Party Colored Coat (1640).

The tidal wave of street protests also stifle both the individual retireeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s initiative and enterprising spirit of dialogue and progress, capable of developing the requisite perception and strategy to remove whatever contradictions identified in the Osun system. Otherwise, the protest by the retirees was a vivid example of poor peddling. But Osun people would not succumb again to what Antonia Gramsci (1891-1937) called the â&#x20AC;&#x153;retireesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; war of maneuverâ&#x20AC;? in one of his several writings on the political unrests in Italy, following the Russian Revolution of 1917.

Gramsci of a lower middle-class family at Ales, the Italian Island of Sardina, was an Italian Communist party leader, Marxist political theorist and a journalist of the socialist newspaper, AVANTI. He attended University of Turin.

Commendably, Aregbesola has assumed greater stakes in the Osun enterprised. In these years in the saddle of the state affairs, he has rather acted the monkey and actually pleased the collective people of Osun in practical terms, not anyone in particular. His banish Poverty, Hunger and Unemployment (BanPHU) through economic and social policies and programmes have re-enacted the Mikhail Gobachevâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts, the Russian glasnost and perestroika projects. The glasnost stood for openness, and perestroika for restructuring.

And like the Gobachev revolution, the Aregbesola BanPHU revolution has removed the contradictions inherent in the Osun system. His infrastructural projects in all the nooks and crannies of the state also connect the Osun economy and wealth to attract investments. His governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debt manifest has not even over burden the state. The debtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s onus probandi, is the massive development of physical, social, cultural and political structures and programme across the state pro bono publico, for the public good, aided by his drive, consistency, focus, positive energy and steely courage. Thus, the concern of all in Osun should be for accelerated growth and development of the state.

Good! Today in Osun, the official profligate way of life, official squadernania, official mindless waste of the spendthrift years and official easy options had all gone with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesteryears (20032010) in the governance of the state.

â&#x20AC;˘OLUSESI is Assistant Director, Directorate of Publicity, Research & Strategy, Osun APC 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 Acting Editor, KAZEEM MOHAMMED, Telephone: 0806-220-7954, kazeemayofe26@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org., E-mail: osundefenderbank@gmail.com,